Refined Event: Vacation

Hey everyone! I’m excited to report that I will be on vacation this week. Headed to a beautiful island abroad and will be going off the grid. That means I will not be posting on the blog – or anywhere else. See you in a week.

Au revoir!

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Refined Find: Chanel Denim Bag

While working on a special project in Miami, I stopped by Miami Twice. Recommended by a friend of mine, Miami Twice was quite the treat during my visit. I found a wide selection of Chanel bags I normally don’t see at other consignment shops. Like this one, a Chanel small denim tote with gold hardware.

For more information about this bag, please contact Miami Twice.

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7 Reasons To Shop Consignment

1. Consignment shops today are a lot different. Most stores are no longer filled with old merchandise no one would be caught wearing or using. Some of the stores I visit are so beautiful, you’d never guess the merchandise was previously owned. Most stores carry a wide selection of quality pieces in great condition. Some items have never been used and still have tags on them.

2. You will find amazing designer pieces at the fraction of their retail value. This was  what started it all for me. It’s all about owning a quality item, in great condition for less.

3. You’ll find unique pieces no one else has. I never know what I will find in a consignment shop or where an item may originate from. Whether it’s a statement necklace or a vintage handbag, you just never know.

4. Vintage, vintage, vintage! Most stores have a vintage section. Some of these pieces are consigned by vintage collectors, older consignors or family members of someone who no longer has use for the item.

5. Perfect for special events. Black tie events and weddings often put us in a tizzy. Most women just don’t have gowns or dresses that are appropriate for a special occasion  laying around. Who wants to spend a ton of money on something we will probably just wear once? Not me.

6. It’s the green thing to do. Shopping consignment it’s one of the most efficient ways to recycle clothing, accessories and even furniture. As a consignor, you earn money and as a shopper, you save money.

7. Everybody’s doing it. Consignment has gotten a big boost lately and it no longer holds the stigma it used to. With the popularity of TV show like House of Consignment and Fashion Hunters, consignment shopping has actually become pretty chic.

If you never have shopped consignment here are some helpful tips. If you have, then I am sure you know what I’m talking about.

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Refined Finds: Bottega Veneta, Celine, Versace and Chanel Bags

Without further ado, here are the rest of the bags I found at Consignment Bar in Miami last week. Above is a rare turquoise leather Bottega Veneta satchel. Scroll for more handbag porn.

Chanel caviar leather toiletries bag. (Could double as a purse, just saying).

Vintage Versace black satin and crystals bag.

Last but certainly not least – Celine knitted hobo bag.

These unique handbags can be found at Consignment Bar. Please contact them directly for additional information.

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Refined Find: Rare Valentino Embroidered Bags

Here is a set of bags I don’t come across too often. They are embroidered Valentino satin evening bags. Each bag has a silver frame, is lined with woven silk and has adjustable chain straps. They are highly collectible and hard to find. I love the delicate embroidery – so victorian.

These bags were found at Consignment Bar in Miami. Please contact them directly for additional information.

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Refined Find: Fall 2009 Chanel Evening Bag

Every now and then I come across an item that simply takes my breath away. And that is the case with this Chanel evening bag from the Paris-Moscow Fall 2009 collection. After doing some research, I learned that this bag was a custom order piece and took 3 months to make. Bag Snob featured this bag on their site in March 2009. The lions are said to be a tribute to Coco Chanel’s astrology sign, Leo.

I found this precious item at Consignment Bar in Miami, while working on a special project. This is such a rare and incredible find. For details about this item please contact Consignment Bar.

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Refined Finds: Chloe + Yves Saint Laurent Under $100

Nothing is more exciting than finding amazing pieces, at amazing prices. I mean, that is what the thrill of the hunt is all about. A great wardrobe consists of classic and timeless items that can be worn in multiple ways, and on different occasions. Luxury consignment shopping is all about buying high quality pieces for a fraction of their retail value.

I am always amazed at how luxury designer items maintain their quality through years. Like the vintage Chloe jacket and the Yves Saint Laurent sequined top above. Truly worthwhile investments under $100.

Both pieces are currently available at Affluent Finds.

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Refined Find: Bold Vintage Prints

It’s no secret that bold prints are spring/summer wardrobe staples. When wearing bold prints, keep the rest of your look minimal to avoid looking costume-y. Here are a couple of vintage options:

L-R

- Malcolm Starr 70′s maxi dress.

- Koos Van Der Akker summer floral print dress.

- Leonard Paris 80′s shooting star dress.

These pieces are currently available at Palm Beach Vintage.

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Refined Find: Vintage Adolfo Dresses

Adolfo is one of the most sought-after vintage designers, so I am always thrilled when I find Adolfo pieces. These dresses in particular are Adolfo for Saks Fifth Avenue. My favorite is the black and white dress, it’s very Chanel-esque. These knit dresses are in mint condition and are a great addition to a vintage lover’s collection. The best part about these dresses is the price, $99 each!

Affluent Finds recently added a vintage section to their store, which is where I found these beauties. I have a couple of other treats from their vintage selection to post in the next couple of days.

Affluent Finds is also having a 15% off sale this weekend. Yep, that includes their vintage selection and of course, the dresses photographed above. Contact them for more information.

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Refined Find: Yves Saint Laurent Cream Muse Bag

I have seen a couple of Yves Saint Laurent Muse bags out there, but never in cream. This is such a rare find! Perfect bag for spring and summer. I love the Muse bag not only because of it’s design aesthetic or the materials used, but it’s roomy enough for a busy girl on the go.

This bag is currently available at If Pockets Talked.

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