Chanel & Cartier Price Increase 2021

It's been awhile since I've talked about luxury bags. I thought today, I'd share some insights on 2 upcoming price increases from 2 of my favorite brands - Chanel and Cartier.

{Chanel New Medium Boy | M/L Classic Flap | Wallet on chain} {Mini top handle in grey | Chanel 19 Small in grey}

1. Chanel price increase: Chanel is going to have another price increase starting July 1st, 2021. I believe this is the 2nd price increase this year. Isn't that crazy? The first one happened in January. Having 2 price increases within 6 months is ridiculous in my opinion (considering the economy isn’t the greatest right now). I guess, Chanel will continue to raise the prices as long as the demand continues to increase.  I wasn't in the market for another Chanel bag. I haven't bought one for years as I am pretty content with my 3 classics. However, when Chanel released their 21A collection, I was in love with so many pieces. I am particularly interested the Classic Mini top handle in grey (current price: $4300) and the Chanel 19 small in grey (current price: $5100). I was seriously considered getting one of those 2 bags before July 1st but unfortunately (or I should say fortunately), both bags are completely sold out in the U.S. My SA sent these photos over a couple of months ago. I think people are panicking over the price increase and willing to buy whatever they can get their hands on. It's fair to say that there won't be a new Chanel bag for me in the future. I have a specific figure in mind when it comes to spending on a bag and with the latest price increase, these classics are no longer in my price range.

2. Cartier price increase: Cartier is going to have their price increase next Tuesday 6/29. It's a 6% across the board on their entire product line (including watches). This price increase is confirmed by my SA. I am glad I got Courtney her ring a few weeks ago. 6% is what I considered a reasonable increase. However, for pieces that cost thousands of dollars, the jump is still significant. I plan to add another Cartier piece to my collection (everything you need to know about the Cartier LOVE bracelet here). I wasn't planning on buying it this year but with the price increase, I need to act quickly (lol!). In order to get the current price for pieces that aren’t available right now, you have to talk to your SA and make a full deposit before Tuesday. They will try to locate the piece for you and honor the current price.

Update: New prices have been updated =( The screenshot on the left was captured yesterday (6/29/21). The screenshot on the right was captured this morning (6/30/21). My LOVE bracelet is now $7400 (increased by nearly 6%).

{Cartier Love ring | Cartier Love bracelet}

I hope you find this post helpful. At the end of the day, we could live without these material things. I am thankful that we're financially stable enough to treat ourselves once in awhile. However, we knew our priorities and had no problem saying no to things that didn’t matter as much.

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Chanel & Cartier Price Increase 2021

First luxury purchase of 2021

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! The family and I came home late last night from a ski trip in Michigan. The girls did wonderful. By the end of day 1, both of them were able to go down blue runs without any issues. It was a perfect family getaway for the long weekend. Today, I am sharing my very first luxury purchase of 2021. I wasn't planning to purchase this particular item but my SA texted me a picture and I couldn't resist. I showed the text to hubby and he said just get it for Valentine's Day. He didn't have to tell me twice (lol!). It's not always easy to find a classic Chanel long necklace. They sell really fast. A pre-owned piece is often selling for more than its retail price and this is a perfect example. I included the price tag for your reference. The tag says REV (revolving) meaning the item is a part of Chanel's classic collection and is released every season. I don't know when I get a chance to wear this beauty out but I am excited to have it in my collection. I included a short unboxing clip just for fun. Have a great week, everyone!

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First luxury purchase of 2021

Black Friday Sales 2019 :: Luxury beauty products

**All Black Friday sale posts are here**

I hope this week's sale posts have been helpful to you. I try to bring you different types of sales everyday. As always, I appreciate each and every one of you for your support. Today, I am excited to share a rare discount code that works on luxury beauty products. We're talking about La Mer skincare products, Christian Louboutin beauty gift sets, Chanel perfume and more. This code also works on Canada Goose outerwear which rarely happens. Use code "SELFCCE" to get up to 20% off all eligible items.

1. La Mer moisturizing cream
2. Christian Louboutin lip collection
3. Canada Goose parka *my review*
4. Prada Cahier bag
5. Saint Laurent sandals
6. Gucci earrings
7. Chanel Chance perfume *This was my favorite for a long time*
8. Balmain blazer
9. Charlotte Tilbery lip kit *I own this set and love*

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Black Friday Sales 2019 :: Luxury beauty products

Black Friday Sales 2019 :: Save hundreds (or even thousands) on luxury items

**All Black Friday sale posts are here**

Another day, another sale =) I am excited to share a rare promotion from Fashionphile. They're my number one source when it comes to pre-own luxury items. I bought and sold many items from/to FP. Their inventory is out of this world. For 24 hours only, you can take an additional 10% off all discounted items with code TUESDAYFLASH. The code expires at midnight. Some of the items I saw this morning are already sold out.

1. Gucci Marmont belt (condition: new)

2. Louis Vuitton Epi Locky BB bag (condition: excellent, retail: 1700, save: $381)

3. Gucci Marmont super mini bag (condition: excellent, see it on me)

4. Saint Laurent Bellechasse satchel (condition: excellent, retail: 1890, save: $1120!!!)

5. Saint Laurent monogram clutch (condition: excellent, retail: $1245, save: $570, my review)

6. Chanel square wallet on chain (condition: excellent, retail: $2500, save: $1064)

7. Gucci square sunglasses (condition: excellent, retail: $375, save: $123)

8. Hermes belt (condition: new)
9. Prada Cuir bag (condition: excellent, retail: $2800, save: $1796!!!)

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Black Friday Sales 2019 :: Save hundreds (or even thousands) on luxury items

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Necklace

Sharing what my husband got me for our 10-year anniversary. I am so excited! I've been eyeing this Van Cleef & Arpels vintage Alhambra necklace for the longest time. I first tried it on when I was in Vegas. Then I tried it on again when I was in Chicago with my husband. I briefly talked about this necklace here. What I love about about the brand is that VCA pieces are very understated. If you know, you know. The Alhambra collection has launched over 50 years ago in 1968 but not many people know about it (at least in my circle of friends). I wanted a minimalist necklace for everyday wear and this beauty is absolutely perfect. If you're unfamiliar with VCA pieces, there are 3 sizes: the sweet Alhambra is the smallest size, vintage Alhambra is the midsize and the magic Alhambra which is the largest size. I wanted it in white gold. White gold comes with only 2 stone options: mother of pearl and turquoise (which is fine - I love pearls regardless). If you like yellow gold, this necklace is available in malachite (green), carnelian (red) and onyx (black). They're all precious stones. Eventually, I'd like to have the matching pair of earrings but that's going to be a future purchase. The necklace is understated and classy. I've been wearing it everyday to work and I love it.

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Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Necklace

A belated birthday gift

I hope you all had a fun and relaxing long weekend. 3 days flew by so quick. We had a pretty eventful weekend with friends and family. The weather was nice enough to take the boat out for the first time this season. The kids had an absolute blast. We had a few cookouts with friends (they make the best crawfish). We managed to do a bit of shopping as well. Next thing I know it was time to go back to work =( The kids are officially out of school and ready for a fun summer ahead of us. In today's post, I wanted to share my husband's belated birthday gift (his birthday was in March). It's been a year in the making. He finally got a call from Rolex to pick up his Datejust 41mm watch. It's identical to my watch except the size. The date wasn't set correctly on my watch because I recently got an Apple watch and haven't worn this one in a couple of weeks. I will do a separate post to go over the buying process, this specific model, discounts and everything you need to know if you're interested in buying your very first Rolex. We're very proud of our accomplishment. We achieved what we set out to do. We appreciate the finer things in life like the boat and bucket list trips and enjoy those kinds of things with our family. However, as my husband says this matching set is something very special between just the two of us. It's something we will for sure pass down to the kids one day.

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A belated birthday gift

Tips for purchasing a Gucci belt

{Gucci Marmont with snake belt | Gucci Marmont 1" belt}

As mentioned in this post, the Gucci belt is one of my top 5 most used luxury pieces. I purchased 4 Gucci belts last year so I thought I'd share a few tips just in case you're interested in getting one for yourself.

Choosing the right width: The Gucci Marmont belt is available in 3 widths: 0.5", 1" and 1.5" (the most popular version). It all depends on your personal preference but the 1" version works best for me. I purchased the 1.5" version with a silver buckle last year and decided to send it back. The buckle was way too big on me. I understand it's a statement belt but the buckle was just way too big for my liking. My sister in law in the other hand, loves the wider-width version. She purchased this Gucci Marmont snake belt a few weeks ago. I snapped a few pictures to show you the differences between the two. The snake version is a bit more expensive but she likes that fact that it's unique and different than the regular Marmont version. I also purchased the thin version last year but ended up sending it back as well. If you're looking for a thin belt to define your waist, this is a great option. However, it doesn't work well as a hip belt. Since I use my Hermes belt as a waist belt, there is no need for another thin belt.

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Tips for purchasing a Gucci belt

Top 5 most used luxury items of 2018

Today, I am sharing my top 5 most used luxury items of 2018. A few of these items come as no surprise.

- Cartier Love bracelet: This is an obvious choice. This bracelet has been on my wrist for over a year now and I can't imagine not having it. Read my thoughts about the bracelet here.
- Louis Vuitton backpack: I didn't think I'd love this little bag as much as I do. Someone requested a full review of this bag. Please stay tuned if you're interested. I adore this bag. It's the perfect size for me (not too big not too small). It goes with everything and can hold a ton of stuff. It's my weekend go-to bag.

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Top 5 most used luxury items of 2018

Building a luxury collection :: What to buy and not to buy

Before making a luxury purchase, I always ask myself "Should I splurge on this item or should I save?" I've been collecting luxury pieces for almost a decade now so I thought I'd share some of my tips when it comes to building a luxury collection. What you should buy first and what you should save your coins.

What you should get: A mini handbag
What you should not get: A full-size wallet
Gucci Marmont bag ($890) vs. Chanel wallet  ($850)
Typically, when people started collecting luxury pieces, they usually go for a designer wallet. A designer wallet not only satisfies their craving for a designer piece but also in most cases, cheaper than an actual designer bag. I am here to tell you, don't do that =) A wallet will always stay inside your bag. A wallet can only act as a wallet. However, if you purchase a versatile handbag, it will take you from day to night seamlessly. Take this Gucci mini Marmont bag as an example. In this video, I demonstrated how you can wear it 5 different ways. It's for sure a better bang for your buck

What you should get: A designer belt
What you should not get: A pair of designer sunglasses
Gucci belt ($450) vs. Gucci sunglasses ($350)
I know everyone and their mother is wearing the Gucci Marmont belt but I am here to tell you it really does kick your simple outfit up a notch. I own this belt for about 2 months now and I can't get enough of it. It instantly elevates an outfit. On the flip side, if you're thinking about getting a pair of Gucci sunglasses, don't. There are so many great dupes just as good as the real thing. I have these $20 sunglasses and they're great. Also, this is an amazing dupe ($85) and they looks identical to these $350 sunglasses.

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Building a luxury collection :: What to buy and not to buy

The watch of my dreams

I've been eager to share what I got for my 40th birthday so, here we go! I've done "what I got for my birthday" post every year for the past several years but I totally understand if this is not your cup of tea. As long as I can remember, birthdays and holidays are always a big deal in our household. I am beyond grateful for having a loving family and a great support system. Let me start by saying this wasn't an impulse purchase. I mentioned briefly in this post that a Rolex watch was the last big ticket item on my wishlist. We've been saving for it and finally pulled the trigger last month. Truth be told, we didn't know much about Rolex watches. One of our "life goals" is to have a matching set of Rolex watches. I really dislike using the word "goal" but not sure what else to call it. It's just something we wanted to do at some point in our lives. We gained a lot of knowledge by talking to the salesman. If you're interested in learning more about the brand or the watch itself (sizing, different types of bands, bezels, dials, how to wind a Rolex watch, how often you should wind one..etc...), let me know in the comment section below, I'll be happy to share the information.

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The watch of my dreams

My birthday wishlist

Let me start off by saying that I am very touched by your sweet comments and questions in my last post. I am working on answering them. In the meantime, if you have additional questions, please feel free to leave them below. A fun post today to show you what's on my birthday wishlist. I know I am truly blessed for being surrounded by such wonderful people in my life. My family always makes me feel special on my birthday. This year is no different. My birthday gift has arrived last week. Ekkkkk! My thoughtful husband did go all out this year. Bless his heart =) I can't believe I have it in my possession. Will have to share what I got in a later post. With that being said, I have zero expectations when it comes to any of these items. They're just fun to look at. I might get one of two on this list at some point but I am in no hurry. Did you notice? No bag!! lol If you have a special occasion coming up, I hope this list gives you some ideas. Material things are always fun to look at but the nothing worth more than surrounding myself with people who make me feel special on my birthday

1. Chanel slingback: There is nothing more classic than these Chanel slingbacks. I purchased an affordable version from Zara last month and have been enjoying them. These shoes are on my list of things to check out when I am in NY next month.
2. Gucci Marmont belt: I talked briefly about the belt here. I purchased the 1.5" version and it was way too big on me. I also purchased the 0.8" version and it was too small. One day, I thought to myself "Since the belt is unisex, why not look in the men's section?" Low and behold, I found the 1" version and it's exactly what I am looking for. I am planning to purchase this belt towards the end of the year.
3. Louis Vuitton 6-key holder: I have always wanted to add this piece to my collection. This might be the year to pull the trigger

4. David Yurman earrings: I've been entertaining the idea of getting a pair of earrings to match my cable bracelet. These are so perfect for everyday wear.

5. Chanel pearl necklace: Another classic item from Chanel that I absolutely love. Although, it's debatable whether it's really worth the price tag. I have never seen one in person. Added to my list of things to check out in NY as well.
6. Christian Louboutin black simple pumps: I get so much wear out of my nude pumps that I am considering getting the black pair as well. The 85mm heel is a great option if you're on your feet for long periods of time
7. Gucci sunglasses: Gucci sunglasses are all the rage these days. I did try on the popular square version but they're huge on my face. I stumpled upon this style and they fit amazing. Not sure how I feel about the price tag but hey, it's fun to dream =)
8. Dyson hair dryer: I am seriously in need of a new hair dryer. The one I am using right now is so old. These days, I wake up at 5:30 a.m to get ready for work. Since my hair dryer is so old and loud, I feel like I wake up the entire household when blow drying my hair. Do you own a Dyson hair dryer? If so, please share your thoughts? I heard it dries your hair really fast and is very quiet
9. Canada Goose camp down jacket: This is something that I keep putting on and taking it off my wishlist. I had a chance to try this exact jacket while I was in Banff earlier this year. Quite honestly, I don't understand the hype. It feels the same as my North Face jacket but it costs 4 times as much. The down jacket is the only style that I am kind of considering. I am not interested in the ones with real fur.
10. Barefoot Dreams robe *available in 11 colors*: The last item on my wishlist is this amazing robe. I am a huge fan of the brand and would love to wrap myself in this insanely soft robe.

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My birthday wishlist

Everything you need to know about the Cartier LOVE bracelet

As mentioned in this post, today, I am sharing some information about my Cartier LOVE bracelet. I wasn't sure how I feel about having something on my wrist 24/7. After wearing for 9 months, I can't imagine not having it. It's now a part of me. If you're interested in owning one, I hope you find this post helpful

The history: Designed in 1969 by Aldo Cipullo, the LOVE bracelet was created as the ultimate symbol of a strong bond and commitment between two people. Nearly half a century later, the bracelet remains one of the most iconic fine jewelry pieces on the market.

The design: The bracelet is available in yellow gold, rose gold and white gold. The yellow and rose gold version starts at $6300 while the white gold version is a bit higher at $6750. The LOVE bracelet comes in 2 different widths: the original (which I have) and the mini LOVE (super cute!). If you love stacking your bracelets, the mini version is a great option. I might get one for my daughter when she turns 18. The bracelet features a wrist-hugging oval shape which makes it so comfortable to wear even though it has a good weight to it. You'll get used to wearing it after a few weeks. The LOVE bracelet is available in 7 sizes, ranging from 15cm - 21cm. Mine is a size 16 (my wrist measures 5.5"). You can't see any space but there is room for the bracelet to move up and down my wrist.

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Everything you need to know about the Cartier LOVE bracelet

Take an extra 10% off these luxury handbags

FashionPhile offers an additional 10% off all their discounted items (ONE DAY ONLY - use code SPRING10). This is a super rare opportunity that's worth checking out. They have the best selection of pre-owned luxury handbags in my opinion. I sold and bought from them many times in the past and my experience has always been positive. Shop the rest of the items here (things are selling out fast!!!)

Gucci Marmont in nude *save $485*
Louis Vuitton palmspring backpack *I am drooling!!*
Prada double tote in black *save over $1200*
Prada double tote in camel *amazing price - save over $1800!!!*
Hermes Evelyn *I love this - so perfect for spring/summer*
Dior wallet on chain *gorgeous color*
Cartier love bracelet *save over $1200*
Chanel necklace *love*
Chanel brooch

The classics

- Chanel wallet on chain *The red WOC is just sold but this black one is gorgeous and available for $500 less than retail*
- Louis Vuitton speedy 25B *I own this*
- Chanel classic jumbo flap *this black one is sold as well - The same one in beige clair is still available for $1200 less than retail*
- Chanel boy in black *gorgeous light gold hardware*
- David Yurman classic cable bracelet
- Louis Vuitton wallet *my everyday wallet*
- Hermes Kelly *I own this*
- Hermes belt
- Gucci wallet on chain

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Take an extra 10% off these luxury handbags

10 classic items that will stand the test of time

If you've been following my blog for awhile, you know I don't spend much money on clothes. I am a huge believer that you can be stylish without spending a fortune. Target is actually one of my favorite places to shop for clothes. The only clothing category that I am willing to invest in is outerwear. Living in the Midwest, a quality piece of outerwear makes all the difference. On the opposite end of the spectrum, I don't mind investing in luxury accessories. The right accessory can make a simple outfit instantly feel elevated and expensive. However, I am only willing to invest in classic pieces. Below are 10 things that I wholeheartedly believe will stand the test of time. I hope to pass some of them down  to my daughters one day.

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10 classic items that will stand the test of time