Love is in the air...

…literally, in the air as I write this while en route to Miami =)

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner!  This overly hyped, romantic Hallmark holiday started out as a liturgical celebration of the Feast of Saint Valentine.  Though the legend of Valentine’s Day is a bit mysterious as there are at least three saints named Valentinus, all of who were martyred and recognized by the Roman Catholic Church.  One thing is certain, this is the second busiest holiday of the year for the maker of greetings card, even with digital e-cards online (TIP: Never send Valentine e-cards!)

Counting down to the date, she hopes that he is planning the most love-filled celebration, deciding whether it’s a traditional teddy bear-chocolates-flowers package, a sweet pink flask and cigarette case combo,

a Sydney Evan 14-karat gold love stud diamond earrings from Neiman Marcus,

or The Girl In The Back's genuine crystal studded leather case for her high-tech gadget that will score him the most points (See $$ Discount Details).

Women make a big deal and anxiously await February 14^th’s surprises.

Men, on the other hand, are characteristically surprised to wake up realizing it is a holiday!  He may now just be getting over his hang over from the Super Bowl XLVIII’s bone-chilling match between the Broncos and the Seahawks, still debating and rolling his eyes over the penalties called or not called, Bruno Mars’ halftime show, and the $4 million-dollar-30-second commercials.

And then there are those who hate Valentine’s Day! 

Understandably, Valentine’s Day is surveyed as one of the most disappointing holiday of the year due to so much personal expectations and societal pressure! To avoid disheartened feelings, we all have to keep it real, appreciate the person and the effort, and don’t read too much into how it goes. After all, it’s only one day!    

With or without a Valentine’s date, perhaps we should put the emphasis on ourselves during this month of hearts. Focus on self-love, pamper ourselves and strengthen our commitment to our resolutions of taking care of our body, eating healthy and exercising regularly. Here are a few of my personal faves: 

BEAUTY - I am not big on make-up. I usually use the free giveaways and samples that come during "gift with purchase" events when I buy my Lancome Eye Make Up Remover.  But after I met Hollywood celebrity make up artist, Maxi Tone (see his interview here), and had him work his wonders on me for a runway event late last year, I was convinced that I needed his botanical line to boost my cosmetic arsenal.  Well, that and some tutorials from him too =)  MaxiTone is the magic behind the beauties like Chrsitina Milian, Lea Salonga, Lani Misalucha, etc.  Some of my picks are:

Vitamin C Lip Treatment, Full Coverage Concealer and Water-based Foundation

  
MaxiTone's recent private By Invitation Only soft launch event in Hollywood was attended by the likes of Army Wives' Wendy Davis, Hip Hop Artist MC Lyte, Sister Sister's Kym Whitley, Actress Keesha Sharp, and more.

MaxiTone MakeUp is now available by order only.  Send your information to Maxi@MaxiToneMakeUp.com to get product listing and mention Chasing Sheila to get special deals!

SKINCARE - Bellina Med Spa is an intimate boutique style spa run by Hannah Auten, RN/Certified Medical Laser Technician and Juliana Mandat, Licensed Aesthetician/Certified Medical Laser Technician who are passionate about making a difference in how people feel about themselves. 

Hannah Auten and Juliana Mandat

These pros warmly consult with as much time as needed, asking what clients want, collaborating on options, and jointly deciding on right treatments. They have a state-of-the-art laser technology and aesthetic services for all ages, however Juliana and Hannah feel strongly about not over treating and would only do what is necessary to bring out healthy and natural-looking skin, making their clients happy and more beautiful. Client faves include Intraceuticals Oxygen Treatment and Intellishade by Revision.

“Skin is our largest organ so it is important to watch what we put in our bodies. Alcohol, soda and coffee can all be dehydrating to the skin so its best to keep that at a minimum. Eat healthful foods, for example lots of fresh fruits and vegetables from the earth, drink plenty of water and avoid as much processed food as possible,” says Juliana. I agree…garbage in, garbage out!

Bellina Med Spa offers 20% discount (except injectables) to Chasing Sheila social media followers and Filipino American Journal readers, click "LIKE"/"FOLLOW" Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and then mention that you read about them in this article.

HEALTHY EATS – Speaking of garbage, I’ve come across this cool app called Check GMO, created by a Phoenix based corporation. 

It provides customers with knowledge about the foods they put in their body with easy to use Mobile App Barcode UPC Scanner, available for iPhone and Android.  With a click of a button, it scans the barcode and gives result whether your food has GMO in it or not.  The company also offers the Check GMO Restaurant Program that allows restaurants to submit their information via CheckGMO.com abut the foods they serve. 

What are GMOs? Genetically Modified Organisms are genetically engineered foods: organisms that have been created through application of transgenic, gene-splicing techniques that are part of biotechnology. These transgenic methods for moving genes around are also called "genetic engineering," or GE.  There's too much unknown about the effects of GMOs because long-term studies have not been done, but research about the link between GMOs and pesticides aren't pretty! With GMO check app, we could opt out of the giant science experiment happening in our food system.  Today consumers in over 60 countries, including Australia, Japan and all the European Union countries know what they are buying because their governments require GMO foods to be labeled. While the U.S. government doesn't, we can check it ourselves, download the FREE Check GMO app, and scan those heart-shaped chocolates! 

REGULAR EXERCISE – Have you heard of WOD Passport? WOD (Workout of the Day) Passport is about a network of gyms, pioneered by a Phoenix-based athlete, that are accessible to WOD Passport registered members.  It is a one-stop membership to an entire network of gyms and other fitness related services thus expanding your access to more than just one franchise. This means no more skipping workouts when travelling with WOD passport, so visit www.wodpassport.com and join now!

There you have it, Happy Heart's Day to everyone and remember to love thyself!

Get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene!

XOXO,
Sheila

Barrett-Jackson Cars, Charity & Fashion

A close 2^nd to my passion for Fashion, are Sports and Cars, which is why I love the month of January.  It is the beginning of the awards season and red carpet events, the Fiesta Bowl that brings young excitement in town, the Super Bowl and their much anticipated commercials, the WM Phoenix Open and the ruckus of the 16^th hole, and the world’s greatest collector car auctions by Barrett-Jackson.  Well it is also the month of my wedding anniversary… Happy 17^th to my one and only, Daniel <3

For its 43^rd Annual event in Arizona, Barrett-Jackson opens its new record-breaking site in Scottsdale on January 12, 2014.   

More than twice the size at 750,884 square feet under roof, and almost one mile from end to end, this state-of-the-art luxury auction facility will be the runway to showcase over 1,400 of the finest hand picked vehicles offered at No Reserve.  The excitement viewed by more than 100-million-household television audience set the record for the largest reach in auction history via the Fox family of networks, including National Geographic Channel.

Some of the most collectible and most unique automobiles that crossed the auction block included: 2008 Bugatti Veyron 2-door coupe, the fastest street legal vehicle in America in 2008, owned by X Factor boss Simon Cowell; 1963 Chevrolet Impala custom convertible previously owned by Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant; 1972 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible, a very rare special edition vehicle with a 350 Rocket engine previously owned by the late James Gandolfini of The Sopranos, and; 2001 Mitsubishi EVO  custom 4 door, one of the most recognizable cars in the world and the actual car used  in “2 Fast, 2 Furious” featuring the late Paul Walker.

  Simon Cowell's 2008 Bugatti Veyron 2-Door Coupe sold for $1.375M - Photo credits Autoblog.com

  Offered at no reserve and sold for $46,000

Beyond the venue, the celebrity cars and the fans, Barrett-Jackson is expected to raise $60 million to benefit local and national charitable organizations. The gates opened on Sunday morning for Family Value Day benefitting COX Charities where vehicles are on display but not auctioned.  That same night at the Opening Gala, guests enjoyed a rare opportunity to bid on a 2015 Super Bowl package auctioned by actor William Baldwin for the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancel Research Fund in honor of his mother.  The following Saturday, Bugatti raised money for Make-A-Wish foundation, offering the ultimate Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse driving experience on the world-renowned Formula 1 Paul Richard Circuit in Le Castellet, France.  No plans to hit the brakes, Mr. Craig Jackson personally pledged $1M to TGen Foundation’s colon cancer research in honor of his late father and brother. 

After the charity auctions, high-rev performance by Poison lead singer, Bret Michaels rocked the new Westworld facility.  Phoenix Fashion Week designers were also in the house and showcased their signature collections (photo credits Almanza Photography):  

Ted Baker ushered spring in with floral prints…

Marciano strutted with early summer look featuring sheer palm prints and solid bold colors in light fabric…

 Michelle Hebert, my favorite designer/artist, never disappoints and displayed fierce avant-garde designs…

Elevee Lifestyle which I think every man must own at least one, is sharp and dapper as always…

Doux Belle, chic and classic, featured my top choices of the night – the custom One of A Kind Parisian Pencil Skirt and the Elegant Rose Gown...

At a less crowded affair a few nights prior to the popular 8-day celebrity studded event, I had the pleasure of attending the Barrett-Jackson VIP By Invitation Only private kick off party hosted by Mrs. Carolyn Jackson on January 8th. It was a celebration of goodwill and style with generous sponsors supporting the Make a Wish Foundation Silent Auction, including local brands like JN Jewels, Kendra Scott, Diane’s Beach Wear, Francesca’s Collection, Allie Ollie Clothing, iPic Theaters and many more.  Attended by the Jackson’s closest friends, the intimate gathering was presented by Remy Martin and sponsored by Salt Lounge at the Scottsdale Quarter, Sublime Beauty Design and Joseph James Art.  I especially enjoyed the night in great company of friends!

With Joey Galon and KC Lim

With Jackie Sangster, KC Lim, Gianna del Sesto and Ashley Faith Beeler

With KC Lim - Miss Cambodia USA

BCBG dress, Bri Seeley "Leticia" jacket, Nine West boots, Chanel and Hermes jewels

Make sure to check back for Joey Galon Atelier spotlight feature coming soon!

Don't miss out, get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene.  Visit and LIKE Chasing Sheila on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

XOXO,
Sheila

Fashion Headlines

With the holidays in rear view mirror, buckle up as we depart from the laid-back energy of the previous Water Snake Year 2013 when creative contemplation and strategy planning was acceptable.  If you think that last year went by fast, then prepare to ride 2014 Year of Green Horse or get out of the way.

 

High-octane vigor and productive determination will be rewarded in 2014. Expect a fortunate year that brings luck, good things and fast victories, BUT due diligence and groundwork to seize that opportunity is still a must.

As we leave 2013, here are some local and global fashion headlines and reflections:

1)  First Lady Michelle Obama in 2013 Inaugural Ball Gown by Jason Wu (January 2013) – She accessorized the halter ruby chiffon and velvet floor length gown with Kimberly McDonald jewels and Jimmy Choo heels. Reflection: Stunning!

Photo credits Jason Wu's PR Company, KCD

2)  LEGO Goes High Fashion with Chanel (April 2013) – Karl Lagerfield’s beach-time fun inspiration for the high-end results in bright-colored lunch box looking clutch. Reflection: Looks fun, but this arm candy plastic toy is no fun starting at an exorbitant $9,900.

Photo credits www.garancedore.fr

3)  Phillip Lim for Target (May 2013) – Announced almost 6 months ahead of September 15 launch, I didn’t miss this occasion like I did Missoni in 2011 and left the store with more than what I need. Reflection: My loot… all worth it!!!

4)  Mutya ng Pilipinas 2013 1^st Runner Up is….Maureen Montagne (July 2013) – After bagging the title, our very own Phoenix-based and my fellow ASU Sun Devil, Maureen discovered her passion for helping others during relief efforts in the Philippines as well as her love for the Filipino culture. Maureen reflects and sends her regards from overseas:  “Mutya ng Pilipinas changed my life by teaching me that there is so much more to being a beauty queen. It taught me that there is so much we can do to better not just ourselves, but the people and places around us.  I want to thank the Filipino community of Arizona for teaching me how valuable our culture is. The older I get the more I learn how great it is to take part in our culture and really embrace my roots. I'd also like to thank all of the amazing people I have met in the industry thus far. Everyone's support means so much to me, I couldn't have done any of this without you.”

5)  Katya Leoncio, Owner/Designer of Dolcessa Swimwear wins Phoenix Fashion Week (PhxFW) 2013 Emerging Designer of the Year (October 2013) – The waves of Bulgarian native, now Las Vegas- based Katya, rippled all the way to AZ desert when she showcased her sophisticated luxury swimwear. It was oh so sizzling Haute! 

Katya Leoncio, Owner/Designer of Dolcessa wearing her own design Golden Rush dress at PhxFW
Photo by Desert Rh1no Photography

With Dolcessa brand already nationally recognized by the likes of Kate Upton, Brooke Burke, UFC and Sports Illustrated magazines, Katya remains very much grounded and humbly said that her PhxFW show, opened by African drummers that warmed up the crowd, was quite "the memorable runway event." She shared designer bootcamp learnings and self-discoveries, "It has taught me to pay attention to the brand's finances most importantly, because it could make or break a company. And I realized that I work very well under pressure."  Looking forward to the new year, "2014 will be a year full of excitement, with Dolcessa's gorgeous collection launching in Arizona and California. Our brand will be carried at 2 locations of Molly Brown's Swimwear - a trend-setter boutique for luxury swimwear." Be sure to follow  Dolcessa's Instagram closely for collaborations with bikini connoisseurs Devin Brugman and Natasha Oakley from "A Bikini A Day".

Dolcessa photos by Desert Rh1no Photography

6)  Stacy Eden, Owner/Designer of Clutch Jewelry wins PhxFW 2013 Accessory Designer of the Year (October 2013) – Stacy is a talented, driven, grounded, and passionate local artist who is sure to soar up to unimaginable heights. Grateful for her triumphs, Stacy says, “PhxFW changed Clutch forever.  Not only are we certain we have all the tools to succeed, we also know how to use them. I want to remember every moment! There were so many good ones.  But when my little brother looked at me with tears in his eyes after the Clutch Crowns went down the runway with Michelle Hebert's couture gowns, I totally gave into the moment.  It was a moment of true pride I'll never forget. 2014 is going to be a lot of fun. I'm extra excited about the launch of our collaboration with Dolcessa Swimwear.  It's looking like this year is going to be a wild ride.” 

Stacy Eden, Owner/Designer of Clutch Jewelry

Head jewels by Clutch Jewelry. Gown by Michelle Hebert.

Head jewels by Clutch Jewelry. Gown by Michelle Hebert.

I am truly blessed to meet Stacy, her enthusiasm is a breath of fresh air, and her energy is motivating and contagious.  Our conversations are always positive and forward-looking.  We could spend hours talking about personal growth, professional development, and family stories. Which by the way, I love that every precious piece of Clutch art has a story influenced by some inspiration in Stacy's life. Experience a minute of Clutch in these two commercials on Your Country AXS-TV: Metal That Moves and Jewelry for the Journey.  A recent stint - Clutch Jewelry is the official Men's jewelry sponsor of last month's American Country Awards. 

The true headline is that in less than a year, each of the 12 PhxFW emerging designers evolved in their own rights.  Passion, artistry, diversity and resiliency are only a few of the traits that bind them together.  They shared stories of ups and downs and lessons learned along the way, after all who got it all figured out from the very beginning anyway? Vera Wang didn’t make the US Olympic Figure Skating Team in 1968 and was turned down as Vogue editor-in-chief.  Anna Wintour was fired from Harper’s Bazaar magazine in 1975…thank goodness, where would Vogue be otherwise?

With increased understanding of the industry and newfound skills, these PhxFW 2013 Boot Camp Alumni are now ready to kick up their heels and gallop with the Green Horse as they look up to claim their success headlines.  There are no limits if you look up!

Brand Names (L-R): Efua, Gentry, Chasing Sheila, Michelle Hebert, Medium Apparel, Doux Belle,
Melis Accessories, Linden, Clutch Jewelry, Loin Cloth

May 2014 bring us new adventures, great achievements, love-filled relationships, and year-round joyful celebration with family, friends, food, and fashion!!! Cheers!

Get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene.  

XOXO,

Sheila