In the Loop Style

  • About
    • Bio
    • Contact
  • Our Style
    • Wearing
    • Living
    • Going
    • Staying
    • Giving Back
    • Primping
    • Shopping
    • Eating
  • Shop
  • Follow
    • Newsletter
    • Subscribe by Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Archives for October 2015

The End of Breast Cancer Awareness Month – But the Beginning of this Fight

October 31, 2015 By Chandra Bonine 8 Comments

dsc_0450

October has always been a favorite month of our family, with birthdays, anniversaries, football season, and Halloween. But in recent years, October also represents something much more special and personal — breast cancer awareness month. Our mother has twice survived this evil disease. Her first diagnosis was in 1997 at age 47, and she was diagnosed again ten years later. She has undergone two mastectomies, grueling reconstructive surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hours upon hours of doctor and hospital visits, all with a smile on her face. With her remission spanning eight years this time, we were all hopeful we had seen the last of this monster. But cancer is ugly and mean and vengeful. Just last month, we were told that Mom’s cancer markers were elevated, and after lots of tests, the doctors have found suspicious lesions on her liver, spine, hip, and a rib. We are currently awaiting biopsy results, but her doctors at M.D. Anderson believe the spots are metastatic cancer, stemming from the original breast cancers. It is no doubt deflating to receive such news, but in the words of Chastiti’s eight year old, Payne, “WE WILL FIGHT!”

Defeat Cancer

Cancer sucks, there is no doubt. But we have a loving and healing God.

As Jesus went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered “neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” John 9:1–3.

God is good always, and we are praying to see His healing works displayed in our sweet mother. We are hopeful that this quickly-assembled team at M.D. Anderson will batten down the hatches and beat this disease stalking our mother once and for all! We’ve had barely 6 weeks to process the information but we believe that our mother has many angels who are watching over her, and together WE WILL FIGHT!

Cancer is Defeated

Lately, there have been many criticisms of “breast cancer AWARENESS.” Many people feel that any efforts for “awareness” are unnecessary because everyone already knows about breast cancer. While that may be true, we love that the entire month of October is dedicated to honoring the ladies who have been affected. It represents a show of solidarity as we stand united in support of women across the world who have lost a part of their womanhood and even their lives to this beast. While certain organizations have been under fire in recent years for their dubious practices surrounding the proceeds from their pink efforts, there are many legit organizations that truly donate every penny to research and support for patients.

 

 

Define Pink Breast Cancer Ride

This year, Chandra decided to show her support by taking part in the DEFINE body & mind Pink Ride. This outdoor event was held at the DEFINE Montrose studio, and the hour long Revolution ride included multiple DEFINE instructors, a D.J., strobe lights, and more pink than you can imagine! With all proceeds going to research organizations, this incredibly fun event was a great way to show support, raise much needed funds for research and show solidarity to all those who are affected personally or peripherally by this disease.

Define Pink Ride

Define Rev Pink Ride

While there are so many great and amazing organizations that raise both awareness and funds, Chastiti has a special place in her heart for The Rose. At age 21 Chastiti had a suspicious “lump” found by her doctor in her left breast, and it was removed and thankfully benign. When it happened again six years later, right after Chastiti finished law school (and the year after our mom had her first round of breast cancer), her doctor referred her to Dr. Dixie Melillo, who immediately put her right at ease. Again, the results revealed a benign cyst. But during those appointments in Dr. Melillo’s office she began to read about and learn the mission of The Rose  — Dr. Melillo is one of the founding members, along with Dorothy Weston Gibbons, of this non-profit. The goal of The Rose is to reduce deaths from breast cancer by providing screening, diagnostics, and access to treatment for women regardless of their ability to pay (they even boast mobile mammography!). While fortunate to have insurance and the ability to pay for quality care, Chastiti also recognizes the staggering number of women who put off screenings or treatment because they have no idea where the money will come from. We all know that early detection is the key to beating this disease and with the American Cancer Society now recommending to move away from annual screenings and starting mammograms at age 45 instead of 40, we need more organizations like The Rose to fight that battle. The Rose strongly encourages women to continue annual screenings and that women between the ages of 40–45 benefit from mammograms. The Rose, since 1986, has provided women the opportunity to obtain top notch care regardless of ability to pay. Both of the founders came from humble beginnings, and they are the epitome of what giving back truly means. So please, if you know of any woman who needs or wants a mammogram, treatment, or counseling, but is concerned about being able to afford the care, please refer her to The Rose. Also, if you would like to help and want to see your money put to good use, donate now to The Rose.

dsc_0167

While our sweet mom is scared, anxious, and of course mad, she is a fighter. She has already made several new friends with other patients and families at M.D. Anderson (for those that know her, you’re not surprised!) and is getting to laugh every day with her precious grandchildren while spending time in Houston. Our amazing Dad is fighting right along with her and will no doubt, challenge cancer to a good old fashioned fist fight if cancer decides to not cooperate. Mom has an amazing set of friends back home, and we know they are wishing they could be here with her too. She is currently undergoing radiation for the very painful tumor on her hip, and we are hoping to get the results of her liver biopsy very soon so that a comprehensive treatment plan can be put into place. We worry about the numerous lesions in various parts of her body. We worry what else the biopsy might reveal. We worry about her. We worry about Dad. We worry about her friends who are also battling cancer. We worry not only about history repeating itself with us, but with our daughters. But again, WE WILL FIGHT.

We ask that you pray, and not necessarily just for our mother. Pray for her healthcare providers to do their best. Pray for new research and funding to support it. Pray that ALL women are empowered to obtain and have access to screenings and treatment. Pray for those who have been affected by this monster. Pray for a cure.

…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phillipians 4:6–7.

 

Self Portrait Style

October 26, 2015 By Chandra Bonine Leave a Comment

Blue Self Portrait Dress

Self Portrait Aurelia

Aurelia Lace Dress

Blue Lace Cocktail Dress

With their signature guipure lace designs and elegantly intricate details, Self Portrait dresses have created quite the buzz since the label’s 2013 launch. Malaysian-born designer Han Chong aims to fill a gap in the contemporary-priced market, though his thoughtful creations could no doubt pass for couture. The feminine, yet edgy styling of this London-based line has quickly become a favorite among the Hollywood trend setters —Rachel McAdams, Kristen Stewart, Reese Witherspoon, and Jessica Biel have all been spotted in these pretty frocks, and Julianne Hough is a repeat offender!

Accessory Jane Earrings

Stuart Weitzman The Nudist

Blue Lace Dress

Stuart Weitzman Nudist

It’s a rare day when I put on a dress and immediately feel completely put together, but Self Portrait dresses have that effect. I felt pretty and stylish, and I immediately justified the purchase with a list of events to which I could wear this little number! The details are amazing, from the practical pockets to the precious sleeve ties, and accessories are really not even necessary with the stunning lace overlay. I kept the look streamlined with everyone’s favorite minimalist stiletto and these fun crystal earrings from Accessory Jane (check out her blog — she’s adorable!). I linked to a few other favorite Self Portraits designs below; there really is something for everyone, and each dress is like a beautiful work of art!

Self Portrait Dress

Self Portrait Cocktail Dress

Lace Dress with Pockets

Self Portrait Style

Photos by Justin James Photography

Dresss: Self Portrait, (also in black) available locally at Tootsie’s (other favorite Self Portrait dresses include the long sleeved tiered lace dress, the Guipire Midi Dress, the Guipire Mini Dress, and the Azalea Midi Dress, and we also love the Scalloped Edge Combo Jumpsuit and the Arabella Guipure Lace Midi Skirt  ) | Heels: Stuart Weitzman (similar and less expensive option by Steve Madden) | Clutch: YSL, sold out (similar YSL clutch) | Earrings: Accessory Jane | Ring: similar by Jennie Kwon and Wouters & Hendrix | Lips: Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Cherry Pink

Shopbop Friends & Family Sale

October 13, 2015 By Chandra Bonine Leave a Comment

It’s that time — the Shopbop Friends & Family Sale is live, and we have our fall picks ready! The sale is sitewide, with 25% off everything (a few exclusions apply), and it only lasts until 11:59 p.m. on October 15.

As you can see, we’re feeling lots of warm, textured neutrals, mixed with pops of berry. Tribal prints are having a moment, and the capes and ponchos from last season are holding on strong. Our curation is just the tip of the iceberg that Shopbop has to offer by way of fall fashion, so hurry and get in while the getting’s good! Shopbop Family & Friends Sale

ONE | TWO | THREE | FOUR | FIVE | SIX | SEVEN | EIGHT  | NINE | TEN | ELEVEN | TWELVE | THIRTEEN | FOURTEEN

Shades of Gray

October 12, 2015 By Chastiti Horne Leave a Comment

Tassel ClutchWhile Jamie Dornan, of Fifty Shades of Grey fame, is nowhere in sight, the color gray is making itself known as the great neutral of the season. (Fact: in America the color is spelled g-r-a-y and in England, it is g-r-e-y so do not fret, either spelling is correct). We have seen everything from ball gowns to jeans sporting variations of gray. One need look no further than a Benjamin Moore store to see that there are countless shades of this color ranging from cool to warm. Typically, gray is considered to be a cool color; but, depending on the many undertones such as brown, blue or green, gray can actually brighten up an ensemble. I was immediately drawn to this cozy, cropped sweater from Club Monaco and could live in it (if Houston’s weather would permit!).Fall Cropped Sweater

This cropped find has a subtle cable knit detail and is the softest Fall item I own. I love that it can be thrown on with jeans or paired with a cute A-line midi in black leather. Or whip out your inner-stylish Librarian and pair this cable-knit piece with a pencil skirt. It is a classic “with a twist” look for board meetings and court dates. Speaking of skirts, this high-waist black skirt is such a fun find. The pleats fall below the high waist line and give this skirt a flirty vibe. Plus, since the sweater is cropped, I can still get away with wearing this to the office sans showing too much skin. Win! As the days get cooler, a pair of great tights will carry this look through the winter months (Jack Frost rarely appears in H-town, but one must always be prepared).Cropped Sweater and Flare SkirtPairing these pieces with a snake skin clutch by Houston’s own Presmer adds a little edge to the look. A plain black bag would have faded into the background. Presmer handbags are luxurious and timeless. Plus, these stylish ladies adapt their creations in various colors that add such a uniqueness to their pieces. I fell in love with this clutch 3 years ago and it still looks brand new. The quality of the construction of these bags is amazing. Another fun option is to go with a bold color and switch the clutch to a modern cross-body or even a structured satchel. I typically don’t pair red with black or gray, but a bright yellow or green would certainly pop with this pairing. While I kept my jewelry to a minimum, gold, chunky accessories would be fabulous with this for a night on the town.Black Flare SkirtWe clearly are obsessed with booties and there was no exception when I styled this look. These black suede wedge booties were a no-brainer. Adore is not even a strong even word that I have for these shoes. I have paired them with long flowing skirts, jeans, sheath dresses – you name it. They are so universal and go high style or low depending on the pairing. Bonus: they are comfortable. In a crowd sometimes I swear I hum in my head “you can do anything you want to do, but don’t you step on my black suede boots.” However, I can see high boots or even tall (I’m talking runway tall) pumps with this skirt as well.Dove Gray Cropped Sweater

While this sweater and skirt ensemble marries well, a great high-waist pair of slacks in yellow or persimmon (think Fall palette) would make this an Autumn must have look as well. Also, cute suede shorts, leather booties and a tailored jacket would allow this sweater’s sassy twin to some out. As for this skirt, I have already paired it with a fitted suit jacket and peep-toe heels for a theater outing and a striped, silk blouse tied at the waist for work wear. This skirt is truly an office to outing gold mine! To find separate pieces that can compliment other pieces of your wardrobe is always a closet triumph. Plus, both pieces can be utilized for so many different genres (office, church, dinner with the ladies, et al). Now, if only Christian Grey would pop in to give up some style tips…..

Sweater: Club Monaco | Skirt: Club Monaco | Booties: Cole Haan, old (here and here, for similar | Clutch: Presmer (here and here, for similar)

About

In the Loop Style

Two sisters. Two styles. One lifestyle blog. Join us as we navigate our unique perspective on fashion, fun, and sisterhood! XOXO, C & C

Follow

  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Email and Newsletter Signup

Get all the latest In the Loop Style blog updates delivered to your email inbox.
Sign up for email updates!

Chandra and Chastiti deliver exclusive content via the In the Loop Style Newsletter.
Sign up for the Newsletter!

Shop With Us

  • Anthropologie
  • ASOS
  • Bauble Bar
  • Blue & Cream
  • Club Monaco
  • CUSP
  • Everlane
  • Farfetch
  • Intermix
  • J. Crew
  • Madewell
  • Mark & Graham
  • Neiman Marcus
  • Net-A-Porter
  • Nordstrom
  • Revolve Clothing
  • Saks Fifth Avenue
  • Shopbop
  • The Outnet
  • Topshop
  • Instagram

    Please enter an Access Token on the Instagram Feed plugin Settings page.

    Archives

    • August 2018
    • March 2018
    • February 2018
    • January 2018
    • June 2017
    • May 2017
    • March 2017
    • February 2017
    • January 2017
    • December 2016
    • November 2016
    • October 2016
    • September 2016
    • June 2016
    • May 2016
    • April 2016
    • March 2016
    • February 2016
    • January 2016
    • December 2015
    • November 2015
    • October 2015
    • September 2015
    • August 2015
    • July 2015
    • June 2015
    • May 2015
    • April 2015
    • March 2015
    DEFINEInfluencer

    Newsletter & Email Signup

    Chandra and Chastiti deliver exclusive content via the In the Loop Style Newsletter.

    Sign up for the Newsletter!

    Get all the latest In the Loop Style blog updates delivered to your email inbox.

    Sign up for email updates!

    Most Recent Posts

    • Leather Joggers for a Perfect Date Night Look
    • Easy Easter Entertaining
    • Luxe Casual Look Perfect for Spring
    • Rainy Day Bolognese
    • Transitioning to White Linen

    Search In the Loop Style

    Copyright © 2021 In the Loop Style · Digital Agency Partner: Your Entrepreneur Inside