Valentine’s Day with SammyDress

Disclosure:  I partnered with SAMMYdress for this post, however all opinions are my own.

 

1448229965177-P-3484057

20160113113048_91097

I was recently introduced to SAMMYdress — an online clothing, jewelry, shoes, make up, you-name-it-they-have-it company.  AND, they have men’s clothing too!!  My first impression of the site was: SERIOUSLY?!  Are their prices really that low??  As I perused their clothing section, I realized that not only were prices amazingly affordable, but that the fit and quality appears to be quite decent.  Many of the items listed on their website include photos from prior purchasers wearing the items.  Most also include a review from the individual indicating what size they are and what size they ordered from the website.  This gives one a decent idea about the garment as well as what size one might want to order.

Currently, SAMMYdress is hosting a Valentine’s Day promo. The following promo codes are available with every purchase:

PROMO CODE: VLTSD

15% discount through February 20th.

PROMO CODE: Rebaja

Permanent, has no expiration date.

Subtract $ 3 $ 30 + $ 5 Off $ 40 +, $ 8 Off $ 60 + $ 10 Off $ 80 +, $ 14 Off $ 100 + $ 18 Off $ 150 + $ 30 Off $ 200 + $ 35 off $ 250

The more you buy, the greater the discount.

As mentioned previously, the website carries a wide variety of garment and other items. Some of the items may be considered a bit risqué for some, haha, so be forewarned that you may come across them as you navigate the pages of the website.  Otherwise, consider this a site where you can find some über affordable threads should your pocketbook be suffering after the holidays!

Be sure to drop me a note in the comments section below if you happen to order from the site!  I have not yet ordered, but may be doing so as I prepare for V-day!  I have my eye on a couple of dresses and hope they will arrive in time for the holiday.  Oh yeah, that reminds me: As I have not yet ordered, I have no idea what shipping times are like, so if you order, keep in mind that shipping times may vary.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Until next time!  Stay ‘Chic’!

 

 

Paying it forward

Bertha-7

Bertha-9

Bertha-6

Screen Shot 2016-01-13 at 12.04.23 PM.png

Bertha-23

Bertha-3

Bertha-1

Outfit details:  Tulle skirt // White Top // White Druzy Bracelet // Gemstone Cuff // Cream Faux Fur Jacket

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to shoot a few items with the amazing Tosha Gaines of Tosha Gaines Photography.  It was a mere 30-ish degrees during our 10am meet up, but nonetheless, managed to get some amazing shots!

A couple of the items worn in this photo shoot come from locally-owned and/or women-owned businesses.  The first item – a unique, vintage-feel statement necklace comes from My Red Bead owned and operated by Beth Menke.  Her pieces are one of a kind and sold locally at a variety of stores and boutiques, including Harper Lane at The Galleria in Hoover, AL.  I love the beaded detailing juxtaposed with the silk tassel detail.

A while back, I collaborated with another local, woman-owned business – Chic Society Boutique  – and had a ring that I had not yet worn.  I was going for a white/champagne color scheme for this outfit, but wanted a pop of color that wouldn’t be too overwhelming.  Subsequently, I decided to wear the pink druzy statement ring from SCS; which, in my opinion, added a subtle hint of color.

To complete one of the looks, I wore a faux fur wrap from Royal Scout and Company.  RSandCo is another woman-owned business and one that is quickly gaining a reputation for high-quality, luxe items.  I recently received a wrap and a pair of faux fur boot cuffs.  I wore the boot cuffs immediately (see them styled on Instagram here and here), and wore the wrap during the shoot.  It is insanely soft and oh, so warm.  The wrap prices at about $60, which is not bad considering the quality.  RSandCo carries a variety of faux fur items, many of which I am coveting!!

The final item I wanted to feature in these looks was a pair of earrings from Mark Edge Jewelry.  I have now worn several Mark Edge pieces and styled them on Instagram, but hadn’t had the opportunity to wear the earrings I wore in this shoot.  His pieces are all unique, also have somewhat of a vintage feel, and ultimately stand the test of time.  They aren’t pieces that look like jewelry you’ll find at the mall.  These are hand-made, creative pieces made from reclaimed/recycled pieces of jewelry scouted from all over the country and abroad.  He reinvents these pieces to make truly artistic pieces.  See some of the other pieces I have styled in the past on Instagram here, here, here, and here.

One of my goals for Chic in Academia this year is to support more locally-owned, women-owned, and small businesses in general.  I am happy to lend my voice and platform to increase visibility for the business featured in this post, as well as others I will partner with this coming year as best as I am able.  I hope you will support them as well!!  Thank you as always for supporting me as well and continuing to visit my blog and other social media platforms.  You enable my ability to keep the right side of my brain engaged and alive!  For that, my sanity thanks you as well. 😉

Until next time!  Stay ‘Chic’!

 

 

 

A Fresh Start with Click Salon and Monkee’s of Mountain Brook

Last year (wow, can you believe I’m saying that?!) I had a cinderella moment.  Actually, I felt a more like Pretty Woman, you know.  Except without the whole hooker thing… LOL.  Do you remember that line from She’s All That, circa 1999??  I die, haha!  And, I digress…

Anywho!  The experience was magical.  First I went to Click Salon in Pepper Place (Birmingham, AL).  It’s tucked away in the back part of the Pepper Place complex, although I supposed one could argue it is actually the front of the shopping center.

1209151403_HDR

1209151505_HDR

1209151504_HDR

I had an appointment with Lindsey and she was FANTASTIC.  I needed color and a trim, so she got right on it.  Oh yeah, and btw, they serve wine!!  So, I had a glass, obvi. 😉

 

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -1

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -2

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -4

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -6-2

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -6

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -3

Next up, was shopping at Monkee’s of Mountain Brook.  I had never been in the store before, so I was excited to peruse their inventory.  I have to say, I was impressed with the mix of middle-to-high priced inventory. Everything from $20 fur poms to $400 Tom Ford sunnies.  Perfect for the woman who likes to mix it up!  I tried on a variety of items in the store and walked away with an amazing sheared rabbit fur vest from 525 Luxe.  I’m in love with it.  I left coveting the black dress with tulle shoulders, but may have to pick it up another time. 😉  Check out some of the fab items Monkee’s carries, below.

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -10

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -9

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -12

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -11

Chic In Academia Click + Monkees Instagram -14

I had an amazing time and so can you!! If you are looking for a fresh start in 2016, perhaps these two places can provide just what you need.  Click Salon can give your mane the treatment it deserves, and then you can hop over to Monkee’s for a makeover!  Melissa Cunningham-Campbell is the owner of Monkee’s, but also an excellent fashion advisor if you are looking for some guidance.  A side-note about the store:  They occasionally carry vintage Chanel, so if you are in the market, make sure to let Melissa know!  She will take care of you!

Finally, I wish you an amazing first day of 2016!!  So much awaits us all this year.  Cheers to an amazing year!!!

Until next time!  Stay ‘Chic’!

**Most images in this post were provided courtesy of Stephanie J Gilbert of Small Talk Social.