Meet Amy Fabulous-The Style Muse of Chicago

Visit the Style Muse Online

The Style Muse

~Amy Fabulous Bio~

Amy Lechelt-Basta has been in the fashion and design industry for over 25 years. Most recently, as former owner of Ciao Bella Chicago boutique, Amy had the pleasure of selecting and buying clothing and accessories from throughout the world for her customers. Whether assisting with their personal style for everyday living, a special event or the how-to’s of new trends, or filling a suitcase full of interchangeable pieces for their upcoming trip, Amy was there for her clients! In addition, Amy created an event company in 1996, The Whole Big Thing, in San Francisco, which she later sold to a former client (it’s still up-and-creating today!). As an Event Designer, Amy produced, designed and collaborated with some of San Francisco’s finest. She also won several awards from The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) while acting as Program Chair for the San Francisco chapter, as well as on a National level. And, let’s not stop here…Amy was also a Flight Attendant for United Airlines, where she learned the valuable practice of packing the perfect suitcase (not to mention wonderful “fashion-spectating” and shopping around the world!). Throughout the years, whether Amy was honing-in on her craft during her junior years working at various boutiques, performing in theatrical productions, modeling, or creating companies, one thing is clear, Amy’s style experience is well-rounded. Stylist, personal shopping, in-store merchandising, musing a space, or packing strategist, Amy Fabulous knows how to muse a stylin’ opportunity into reality!

A Special for Chic Gems Blog Readers~

Enjoy $50 off your spring wardrobe makeover! A $275 value for only $225. Be sure to mention Chic Gems when you call Amy to schedule your appointment.

Call Amy today at 847.331.9790.

Happy Shopping!

All the best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Featured at ECOChallenge 2020 to Benefit Peace Journey at Juvenesse Spa

Chic Gems invites you to Juvenesse Spa to Benefit Peace Journey

Chic Gems is Proud to Support Peace Journey

Juvensse Spa

520 W Erie St., Suite 340

Chicago, IL 60654

20% of Chic Gems Jewelry sales from the evening will be donated. Chic Gems has also created 2 special "Peace" Necklaces that will also be for sale at this event.

Take the EcoChallenge 2020! Peace Journey Brazil 2010 Launch Party!
Juvenesse Spa, originators of the PeaceSPA product line, located at 520 West Erie, Suite 340 on The United Nations International Day of Peace on Monday, September 21, 2009 launches ECOChallenge2020 Peace Journey Brazil 2010 and PeaceSPA products.
The Program & School Garden fundraising event will be held from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. and will include organic wines by Mionetto USA, healthy treats by Carnivale, a silent auction, raffle, donations by Chic Gems Etc., music & more. Celebrity Chefs, Educators, SuperGreen Sponsors, Master Gardeners, Social Media Gurus and ECOChallenge2020 rooftop garden particpant, Mark T. Skinner Classical School will also be in attendance. A group of students from Skinner school are set to play instruments and perform "peace songs" at the evening event.

Visit ECOChallenge2020.org for further information, to make donations, or purchase tickets for the event.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Meet Amy of Ciao Bella Chicago, a True Entrepreneur. Review by Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Amy Lechelt Basta for almost 2 years. She has an upbeat and charming personality. She has been an entrepreneur all her life, so I thought it would be fun and inspiring to hear her story and her perspective on owning a business, dealing with challenges at work

and in life, etc.!

So why did you start your business, Ciao Bella Chicago?

I started my biz, cuz I could! Ha-ha! Actually, Jerry, my husband and I, had always thought that I should own a boutique because I was very enthusiastic when leaving my other boutique sales jobs, telling stories every day for hours (really!). And, not only did I have 25 years of experience in retail, but I also became very good at "styling"! Who knew? Finally, I have been an entrepreneur all my life! I took all of my background and joined it together into one location! Event Stylist/coordinator, model/actress/singer/performer, artist, sales manager/sales/bookeeper, flight attendant! I love the challenge of business!

What are the challenges you're facing?

The economy! It couldn't be a worse time to open a biz than when we did! However, the fact that we are still here shows we're doing something right! But, it inihibits "taking it to the next level". And, secondly, to my surprise- employees. Everyone told me this, but I didn't believe it. Even if you have the best employees possible, you still need to deal with all employees "issues", whether work related or personal- on a daily basis.

How are you overcoming those challenges?

Remember to keep a positive attitude, even if it means you need to "adjust it" from time to time. "Everything happens as it should...." It's a business, not your health or life! And, if you run a good, honest life/business, you will have always know you did the best you could- by all!

What brands will shoppers find at Ciao Bella Chicago?

For Women:
Gant, b. chyll, Body, Lucky Brand, Tommy Bahama, Billy Blues,

Majestic Bernadette Conte, Panda Snack, City Lights, Spanx,

JWLA , Johnny Was, Be present, Adea, Bailey 44, Victorinox Swiss Army,

Daftbird, Vintage Glam, Iodice, Sarah Pacini, Lauren Vidal
Hard Tail, R jean, Pursuit of Harmony, Cino, Oramomi
Uncle Frank, Level 99, Tag Jeans, and more.

For Men:

James Perse, Rosasen, Splendid Mills, Victorinox Swiss Army
Lucky Brand, Indigo Palms, Jet Lag, Gant
Generra, Modern Amusement, Bugatchi, J Brand, and more.

Accessories:

Hobo, Matt & Nat, John Wind, Baggallini
Love Quotes, Karen Weiss Belts, eye bobs, Seril
Nundies, Sassy nips, Chic Gems, etc., and more.
Pure Style Girlfriends-Stay Put, Gather the Girls, Haute Stuff, Smooth 'em

Press:

Women's Wear Daily, Daily Candy, Time Out Chicago,

Chicago Mag.com, and Chicago Scene.

Thanks Amy for your insight!

Ciao!

Check out Ciao Bella Chicago online!

Be sure to stop by the store if you're in Chicago.

They are located at 3829 N Southport, one of Chicago's hottest shopping blocks.

The store is steps away from the historic Music Box Theatre!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems, etc. at Ravenswood Art Walk, featured by Daily Candy Chicago

A tour of arts and industry in the Ravenswood Corridor-

October 4th and 5th from 11am-6pm.

(Ravenswood Avenue Between Cornelia-Lawrence Ave Chicago, IL)

The signature event of ArtWalkRavenswood is our October Tour of Arts & Industry in honor of Chicago Artists' Month. ArtWalk is two days dedicated to honoring and celebrating artists in the Ravenswood Corridor. The event, held this year on October 4th and 5th will include 50 venues highlighting over 200 local artists! This year will prove to be the most successful and creative yet! We have plans for a new child friendly area, venue visuals, limited edition art posters for sale, food, and entertainment!

Shop the latest Fall Collection from Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry at the Art Walk this year!

For more info visit http://www.artwalkravenswood.org/

Daily Candy featured the Ravenswood Art Walk on the Weekend Guide.

Click Here to Read!

It's a busy weekend! You will also find Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry at

GenArt's SHOP Chicago!

Here's the scoop:

Saturday October 4th from 2pm-6pm.

Millennium Park Chase Promenade North Randolph Street

Between Michigan Avenue & Columbus Drive

SHOP CHICAGO

Shop. Drink. Chic.
A day long extravaganza of shopping, selling and pampering

to benefit Gen Art’s Chicago Fashion Program.

Saturday, October 4th, 2008 1:00 – 2:00pm: VIP Preview Shopping Reception (Advance Tickets Only-register online free) 2:00 – 6:00pm:

Main doors open to all ticket holders
Join Gen Art for this official Chicago Fashion Focus Week Event!

Shop Chicago will feature more than 40 emerging accessory and clothing designers-including Chic Gems, etc Jewelry.

At Shop Chicago you can shop the latest trends, enjoy complimentary cocktails and even receive a little pampering at the Shop Chicago Beauty Lounge.
VIPs will enjoy champagne, early admission to get first dibs on items, Shop Chicago gift bags and a break from the busy Shop Chicago floor in the VIP Lounge.
Shop the latest Jewelry from Chic Gems, etc.
We will be featured with Lucky Day Boutique
VIP Tickets:(Includes VIP Shop Preview, access to VIP lounge, hors d’oeuvres & Shop Chicago gift bag) * Associate Producer & higher level Gen Art members: 2 complimentary VIP tickets* Silver & Platinum Members: $30/ticket* Non-members: $40/ticket
General Admission:* Complimentary Admission from 2:00pm-6:00pm
* Registration required in advance for each attendee.
* To become a Gen Art Member, click on the link below or call
312-229-1701
**YOU MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND**
RSVP/Purchase Tickets Now!

We hope to see you there if you're in Chicago.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Check out Chicago Picks! Get the scoop on the City's hottest spots for shopping, dining, and more! See what Chicago Picks had to say about Chic Gems!

ChicagoPicks scoops the city's hottest spots (and best-loved secrets) for shopping, dining, drinking and pampering, delivered free every Friday to your email inbox! You don't know Chicago until you spend some time with the Picks. With our signature sense of humor and style, we introduce you to the newest boutiques and the hottest restaurants, with hangouts and must-have products to round out the mix. Plus we serve up the events you'll want to attend and the best sales in town. Click here to sign up at ChicagoPicks and join the fun!


Please help us spread the word -- tell a friend about The Picks in their City!

And don't forget your accessories!

Here is what Chicago Picks had to say about Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry!

Smart Women Finish First

It sounds a little weird to admit this, but we check out what other girls are wearing. Don't get us wrong, but we love checking out hot fashion on smartly dressed women. A well-put together woman projects class, confidence and strength. And ya know what? Some of that can be bought.
Beginning with the right accessories, like those by local Chicagoan jewelry designer Sarah Radford's line of Chic Gems. Gorgeous stones, classic designs.

From Chicago Picks March 7, 2008

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Girl's Night Out Shopping Party at C Salon-Shop Chic Gems, etc., Evlove Intimates, and Lucky Day Boutique. Raffle proceeds to benefit PAVE.

Enjoy a girl's night out at C Salon with a complementary consultation. C Salon is a high-end fashion-forward salon with offers such as color, cut, and extensions.
To add to the evening, you will be able to shop Chic Gems, etc.'s latest jewelry collection and have the opportunity to create your own lingerie with Jenny Dombroski, designer of Evlove. Lucky Day Boutique will be featuring stylish, thin aluminum wallets from Europe and the Cavius 4-in-1 personal protector. Guests will enjoy 10% off all of the collections. Sugar Bliss cupcakes, light appetizers, and champagne will be served throughout the evening. There will be a raffle to benefit P.A.V.E. (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment). Joining us will be a special guest speaker, Angela Rose, from P.A.V.E. Enter to win great products. Please RSVP to C Salon by September 16 at info@csalon.com.
Preview the collections:

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Evlove Intimates

Lucky Day Boutique

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

A Fashionistas Guide to the City Life-Check out Poor Little Rich Girls

PoorLittleRichGirls.com (PLRG) is Chicago's newest online lifestyle mag for Chicago women with High Style & Modest Budgets! Check it out today for tips, tricks and special deals to help you life the good life in Chicago on a budget.

PLRG has everything a girl living in the Windy City needs, the latest hot spots, fashion trends, budgeting your finances....like how to save money on a fabulous blow out instead of spending a fortune!

Tonight, PLRG is celebrating their official launch party at 8pm at Moxie! Be prepared to have fun with PLRG signature cocktails, DJ "Risky Bizness", prizes, and raffles!

From my experience, the launch party for the website last night at Soire was very chic with a great turnout and I really enjoyed the special martinis! I had the chance to meet Noelle, Lacey, and Eryn and they are phenomonal stylish women! I think their website fills a niche for the fashionable Chicago gals on a budget.

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, Etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Your source for the best fashion advice in Chicago-Second City Style

Chicago's got it covered with Second City Style!

Pleasure. Luxury. Wit. Second City Style is the award-winning guide to luxury, style and beauty. This weekly published online fashion magazine and daily updated blog has been heralded as a daily must-read for fashionistas everywhere. Published by Editor-in-Chief, Lauren Dimet and Managing Editor, Carol Calacci, Second City Style is a consumer-driven publication. Millions of readers trust Second City Style's daily dose of fashion musings, international headlines and premiere shopping. For more information log on to SecondCityStyle

Click here to see Second City Style's Events

Second City Style is a high fashion, high energy online magazine for and by stylishly savvy women. Published weekly with daily updates SCS was originally created from hundreds of surveys completed by women just like you, providing invaluable feedback on everything from how to wear the latest accessories to where you can find the hottest trends and so much more.With current readership now expanding globally, Second City Style launched their blog to compliment the magazine and provide readers a resource for up-to-the-hour information.Published by Editor-in-Chief, Lauren Dimet Waters and Managing Editor, Carol Calacci, Second City Style is a consumer-driven publication. The online magazine content and design are created out of hundreds of surveys from Chicago-area women. This invaluable feedback provides a one-on-one relationship with Chicago women that inform each editorial choice. Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-In-Chief with an admitted addiction to clothes, Lauren was destined for a career in fashion. Originally attending the Prince Retail Program at Simmons College, Lauren continued her studies at John Hopkins University, where she earned her MBA. While attending school, Lauren, was able to work her way up through the retail industry, eventually becoming a retail marketer. As such, Lauren was on constant demand for her creative and innovative approaches from some of the biggest names in the business.Lauren recently moved from Chicago to New York where she can keep tabs on the New York fashion industry. It is here, however, at Second City Style, where Lauren looks forward to sharing her experiences and fashionable finds, while creating an environment where women can come and share their insights in today’s hottest trends.Favorite Designers: Giorgio Armani, Chloe, Narciso Rodriguez, Lanvin, and YSLCarol Calacci, Managing EditorHaving earned a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from the University of Illinois, and Accessory Design at the School of the Art Institute, Carol went on to use her creative abilities in designing and selling a chic line of leather handbags, belts and a line of lambskin halter-tops inspired by Tom Ford for Gucci.As an accomplished graphic artist Carol had opportunities to work as a designer and art director for Chicago advertising agencies and has found success as a principal in the design firm, Parameter Design. At Parameter Design Carol has been able to work with national retail brands such as Target and HartMarx, as well as Chicago-area boutiques. Because of her work with these boutiques, she has become strongly supportive of local businesses.Favorite Designers: Barbara Bui, Wyeth, Gucci, and Sergio Rossi.

The Fashion Therapist

As fashionista's we can't get enough fashion advice. We love chatting about fashion, reading about fashion, and of course shopping for amazing fashions!
We found someone you may want to chat with if you have some questions.
Here's what The Fashion Therapist has to offer:

*Consultation/In-person or over the phone meeting (Always FREE ): This is the introductory part to my services and no commitments are required. It allows me to get to know you and your goals...and vice versa! Working with me we would build a partnership so before I can offer any services we would need to make sure that I can provide the services you would like and that you are someone that I can provide service to.

*Fashion Re-Mix: Don't know if something will come back in style or how to wear a shirt a different way? Let me show you what to ditch and how to dazzle some of your already existing clothes.

*Fashion Counseling: Let me give you suggestions on what items you should be wearing and what items to steer clear of. What is discussed will help guide you on your next shopping trip.

*Retail Therapy and Mentoring: There's nothing like a little shopping! Sometimes you never really know how something's going to look unless you try it on. Let's go on a shopping trip and pick out the items that would best fit you.

*Fashion Intervention: Love someone too much to let them run around wearing what is clearly the least unflattering thing. Schedule a fashion intervention to help the ones you love!

Happy Shopping!Xo, Sarah
Gem Goddess of the Universe

PS Click here to see what the Fashion Therapist said about Chic Gems, etc. jewelry!

Do Not Try This At Home!

We love fashion shows as much as the next girl, but looking at some of these Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear shows is a little scary...

You've been warned.

We love purple, but mix up your colors, don't wear 5 pieces together!

This is the Wicked Witch of the Purple Oz.

Hey Cyndi Lauper...ps it's 2008

If you're trying to look like a naughty school girl meets Little Red Ridinghood, then you've succeeded. Where's the Big, Bad Wolf?

Photos from style.com.

Need wearable accessories?

Stay tuned for wearable fashion trends next week!

Girls Don't Spread Gossip They Spread the News

In anticipation for the upcoming season of Gossip Girl here are some of our favorite fashion moments!

Blair Woodruff and Serena van der Woodsen are making a statement with their dresses that are complemented by their handbags. You can find Serena's eye-catching handbag at Chanel. You can make a statement too by matching from head-to-toe like Blair or mixing it up a la Serena. Accessorize your outfits with classic pearls or big gems!



Look for these fashions and you could have the head-to-toe look of a gossip girl for back to school.



What's your gossip?

"Girl's don't spread gossip, we spread the news" quote by Always a Girl's Girl

Indulge your inner fashionista!

Check out vfish in their new store at 2937 N. Clark-opening soon-stay tuned. Here's a peek at their fall collection, all priced under $200! These chic, modern designs are perfect for casual days or nights out.

Pair this chiffon mini dress with a pendant necklace and a pair of cowboy boots or ballerina flats.

Check out the gossip tomorrow!

Little Black Dress-Every girl needs one!

Check out Emma Stone's little black dress!

Photo courtesy of Instyle

Emma Stone was stylin' at MTV's TRL in New York.

The actress, who was promoting her new film The Rocker, added Jimmy Choo gladiators and a wraparound belt to her shoulder-baring frock.

"The Rocker" tells the story of a failed, over-the-hill drummer who gets a second chance at fame. Robert "Fish" Fishman is the extremely dedicated and astoundingly passionate (not to mention sweaty) drummer for the eighties hair band Vesuvius who is living the rock 'n' roll dream until he is unceremoniously kicked out of the group. Unfortunately for Fish, this h appens right before Vesuvius becomes one of the biggest bands in the world. Fish is then forced to get a 'real' job and abandon his dream until an unlikely opportunity arises. Twenty years after getting booted out of the band he helped create, just when Fish has finally given up hope, all of his wildest fantasies come true.

To learn more....

Feel free to comment and send us your favorites celeb pictures!

Every little black dress needs the perfect accessories and shoes!

Tomorrow, we have the perfect shoes for all occassions...

Upcoming Events with Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Saturday, July 26th, 2008 –Sunday, July 27th, 2008 11am-7pm
Trunk Show at Malabar Boutique-1880 N Damen Ave Chicago, IL
Join us for a Chic Gems, etc. Trunk Show at Malabar Boutique.
Enjoy special discounts during the Summer side walk sale on Damen Ave.
Find the latest gems from Chic Gems, etc. jewelry and meet the designer, Sarah Radford.


Wednesday, August 6th, 2008 3:30-8pm
Girl's Night Out Party at Red 7 Salon-210 W Kinzie Floor 2 Chicago, IL
Enjoy Girl's Night Out at Red 7 Salon with champagne, complimentary Aveda Rosemary Mint hand treatments, and shop the newest jewelry from Chic Gems, etc. to complete your summer look.
Truffle tasting by Katherine Anne Confections.
http://www.katherine-anne.com/
Enjoy 10% off all jewelry during the event.
Try out a new look from Red 7 Salon while you're here.
Event is open to the public. http://www.red7salon.com/ 312.644.7337
Red 7 Salon has been rated one of the top 200 salons in the U.S. in 2008.


Thursday, August 21st, 2008 6-9pm
Aniko GLAM Chicago at Aniko Salon and Spa-1109 S Wabash Chicago, IL 60605
Join the Aniko Salon stylist team while they glamorize models with hair design and makeup and are fully transformed with body painting. Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, live music, red carpet with photo ops, boutique vendors, complimentary glam bags filled with our sponsor¹s gifts and a post-party. 10% of all membership sales, gift certificate sales and services booked atthe event will be donated to the Chicago Fashion Foundation.
Shop Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry and meet the designer.
The mission of the Chicago Fashion Foundation (CFF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to provide academic scholarships to Chicago-area college students majoring in fashion related studies and coordinate educational programs for the Chicago fashion community. CFF's goal is to maintain and develop the fashion industry in Chicago through an annual scholarship competition, yearly fundraiser, continuous professional networking events, and mentoring programs.


Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 –Sunday, August 24th, 2008 12pm-11pm
Shop Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry at the Taste of Greece
Halsted Street Between Monroe-VanBuren Chicago, IL
Join us for a celebration of Greek heritage includes food from area restaurants, live music on two stages (5 p.m.), beer and wine, dancing, games and more. With nightly performances by the Macedonian Dance Troupe and Orpheus Dancing Group.
Shop the newest jewelry by Chic Gems, etc. to compliment your fall wardrobe. Meet the designer, Sarah Radford.
We will be featured with Lucky Day Boutique. http://www.luckydayboutique.com/
Free admission, open to the public. Questions? Call 847.509.8050

These are the coolest wallets on the planet!

Check out Oogon Wallets.

They come in 9 colors and are made of aluminum.

Find them online at Lucky Day Boutique

We thought they were by far the coolest wallets!

Enjoy!

Tomorrow, check back for upcoming shopping events in Chicago!

More designers from Chicago that you should know!

Here are some more Designers from Chicago that you simply cannot miss!

Baby Jane Handbag by Diego Rocha

Loungepants by Evlove Intimates.

Can we say comfy?

Tomorrow we will tell you about the coolest wallets on the planet!

Need accessories?

Looking for something unique from Chicago?

We found some of the best designers in Chicago and thought you would want to see why we were wowed by their work!

Above: Handbag by Brynn Capella

Golden Sunshine EDIE carryall. We love it, have it, and it really holds everything!

Vika Brown Signature Stretch Silk Blouse. We love it! Chic, gorgeous, and modern!



Cyndi Chan's Couture Collection is not to be missed. We'd love to have Breakfast at Tiffany's.
By the way, these Pearls are by Chic Gems, etc.

Tomorrow....We have more Chicago Designers in store for you!

What's in your bag?

What's in your bag?

We found this bag at Bess and Loie You'll be stylin' with this hot new phone by LG. Great for texting and jamming to your MP3.

MAC Lip gloss will make your lips look and feel fabulous. No fashionista should leave home without it!!!

Don't forget to try out new 5 Gum by Wrigley. It is delicious!

What is in your bag?

We want to hear your must haves....

What's your bag?

Bag by Aridza Bross Marie

We found these bags at http://www.bessandloie.com/

Bag by Hayden Harnett Mercer

Make a statement with these colorful bags.

Pair with your favorite 7 for all mankind jeans, tank, sharp stilletos, and accessories.

Tell us about your favorite handbags for the summer! Post some pics.

Tomorrow, what's in your bag?

Shoes we love!

We love shoes. Shoes (and accessories) can make or break any outfit.
You can never have too many pairs of shoes. Just ask Carrie from Sex and the City.
(Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com)


Here are some places we like to shop:

http://www.nordstrom.com/


http://www.zappos.com/


http://www.kathrynkerrigan.com/


http://www.barefoottess.com/