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Renaissance Gateway Staycation – Let’s Go

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Hi pretties,

Staycations R’ Us, or me rather. A short getaway is good for your overall well being. I am fortunate to have so many amazing hotel choices right here in my hometown and I chose the Renaissance Gateway for a long celebration weekend.

Let’s face it, a hotel room can make or break your stay. Here are some things to consider in a hotel room:

  • Location – high up, away from the ice machine and elevator
  • Size – big enough to move freely
  • Staples – coffee station, free water
  • Bed – nix the decorative pillows
  • Bathroom – big, with a a door, and easy to use shower head
  • Extras – good toiletries, reading nook

The Room

Let’s talk about this door! How unique is this design?!

I love the room, so fun and modern. The gallery wall over the bed is a mix of contemporary art in a classic black and white color combo! The wall art is quite interesting and definitely sparks conversation. I love that the bed doesn’t have a million pillows – nap ready!

The bathroom is cool, but not cold in white, black and gray tones. The dark flowers are a nice touch. It’s well appointed and a good size.

But then a glance to the right and bam, an incredible art wall – in the bathroom. Was not expecting it and loved it!

The decor is simple but unique. The settee at the end of the bed is perfect for getting dressed or relaxing in front of the television. A reading nook is always a nice feature of a room, this one is no exception in a beautiful apple green. But, my favorite piece is the trunk bench, in a rich brown with belt detail and accented with a cute pillow.

The obligatory full length mirror is a must. The rustic frame is compliments the room’s decor.

This room was right up my alley. My preference is a modern room without too much stuff and lots of unique details. I was so pleasantly surprised but really this hotel is smartly done with accents that really standout.

Next post I will share this unique space and my thoughts overall on my staycation.

Does the hotel room matter to you or is it just a place to sleep?

robincharmagne

Skirts And Sneakers – OOTD #117

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Hello pretties,

OOTDs are back!! Would you believe I have not posted an outfit in over 1 year. Seriously, almost 2 years this month. Playing dress-up is one of the most fun and truly creative aspects of having a blog. Fashion provides an outlet for freedom of expression from head to toe! There is no shortage of looks as fashions change from season to season.

The Backstory

I started including outfit looks from the inception of robincharmagne. I posted on Instagram, “I been posing” with a pic of me as a little girl. And, it’s quite true, I have always liked clothes so it just made sense. You can view the first OOTD here. Fast forward to 2016 when my family experienced the loss of two immediate family members and I just didn’t feel like blogging, let alone doing a whole photoshoot. But what was worst, I started eating my grief. I comforted myself with food. I took a few pics here and there but just couldn’t get back in the groove of weekly outfits. Something had to change.

Same Thing Different Year

Fast forward a couple more years to 2018 when yet another immediate family member passed away. I was so done with everything including blogging. Again, I would eek out a post or two but there was no consistency. I was just a sad sack who again ate her grief. As the pounds piled on, I said well when I lose these pounds, I will get back on my blog and back to styling outfits. Needless to say, that didn’t happen.

The Change

In 2020, I was fired up to restore my robincharmagne to the vision I once dreamed of before everything changed. But, I was reluctant to even book a photoshoot. I thought to myself, “I have gained so much weight and you can’t even tell I am down 20 pounds. I will wait until I lose some more pounds before I get back to the OOTDs.” WTH? Naw sis! I could hear the words from a powerful Tedx Talk with the lovely and talented Cece Olisa. She hit it on the head, “Dont wait on your weight to live the life you want”! I booked the shoot and picked an outfit. Go me!

What I’m Wearing

This week’s look is inspired by all the fashionistas on the web rocking tops, skirts, and kicks. Yep ditching the heels for a comfy pair of sneakers. This look is clearly a departure from my usual uniform of jeans and a cute top. But, the contrast of this ornate sweater from Loralette and gold metallic skirt from, wait for it…Walmart for $20, with the black and gold Nike sneakers make for a fun look. I was so comfortable, the skirt moved with such ease, I could have worn this outfit all day… take a peek…

Shop The Look

This is a look I really could rock in all seasons – changing the sweater to a graphic t-shirt in warmer weather and rocking a lighter sneaker. Are you rocking this casual but fun look?

robincharmagne

Images: http://www.shotsbypriiincesss.com

Who Is Robincharmagne?

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Hello pretties,

It has been some time since I introduced myself. But I did not want to do the “usual suspect” questions – favorite color, dream vacation, etc. I found these quirky questions and thought I would share some known and unknown tidbits about me. I hope you enjoy a peek inside robincharmagne…

  1. You’re wearing perfume, what scent is it?

Euphoria by Calvin Klein, it’s a sexy scent with notes of pomegranate, black violet, and black orchid.

  1. What is your coffee order?

Medium with 3 cream, 3 splenda, shot of hazelnut

  1. Favorite body part?

My eyes…light brown and kinda big and bug-eyed

  1. One thing about me that you wouldn’t know?

I love Western tv shows! Bonanza, Rifle Man, Big Valley, Raw Hide, Gunsmoke

  1. Favorite old movie?

Mildred Pierce with Joan Crawford, original boss babe and the wardrobe for this movie – old Hollywood glam

  1. What is your favorite Netflix show?

My favorite special is The Black Godfather, don’t have a favorite show

  1. What is the craziest thing you have done?

Ziplining in Costa Rica, NEVER again. It was so scary and very, very, high off the ground. Did I mention monkeys. NEVER again

  1. Have you ever failed at anything and what did you learn?

I auditioned to be a Georgia lottery girl, you know calling out the numbers.  Lesson-do it afraid

  1. Who is your celebrity crush?

Will Smith – hope he sees this…I would faint

  1. What social media are you addicted to?

Oh my gosh Instagram – beautiful, creative, and crazy

  1. You are going out with friends, what are you doing!

Brunching at a loud and bouncy spot in The A, looking super cute

  1. What is your go-to hairstyle?

Short and sassy, always works – classic

  1. Who is your favorite musical artist from the 20thcentury?

Whitney Houston, so sorely missed. Favorite song – I Have Nothing

  1. What is your greatest achievement in high school?

Speaking at graduation was quite an honor

  1. Can you describe yourself in just 3 words?

Loyal, smart, funny

  1. Which smartphone do you use, iOS or Android?

Team Android foreva

  1. Who is your favorite stand-up Comedian?

Chris Rock…hope he sees this…I would faint

  1. Which is your favorite holiday movie?

Santa Clause- all 3 back to back to back

  1. Most influential book?

Outside of the Bible, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  – be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, always do your best

  1. Which one do you prefer, Coke or Pepsi?

Coke of course. Visit the World of Coca-Cola when you’re in The A

Tell me something about you I don’t know?? I’m nosey!

robincharmagne

Restore – Word For The Year

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Hi Pretties,

Happy 2020! We are all excited about this new year and all the goodness to come. As tradition goes at robincharmagne, we have a word for the year – RESTORE!

The Shift

2019 continued to be as challenging as prior years with family loss. I know these things happen to everyone but it just seemed like it happened in triples for my family bringing more sadness. How much loss can a family endure? We leaned on each other and struggled through the rest of the year. On top of that feeling unsettled with work and home as well. Nothing felt “right” and I was not motivated to do a whole lot, just a few things that I had previously committed to and couldn’t back out.

But, towards the end of 2019, I began to see signs of restoration in different parts of my life. I think it started with the Paris trip. I just felt better, happier, feeling free to just be happy and to live. And then changes on my job – better assignments, changes in my home – motivated to decorate and organize things, and old opportunities resurfacing – back to teaching. The shift was happening and accepted it and I chose to carry it into the next year. God said He would restore what was lost and I see that happening, slowly but most surely. Of course, my loved ones cannot be restored, but having strong extended family and loyal friends restores feelings of love, protection and support.

I am ready to claim EVERYTHING that was lost because God is a restorative God. What are you claiming?

For encouragement and motivation – Words for the year 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019

robincharmagne

A Bag And A Bonus – Let’s Go

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Hi pretties,

Ahhh Paris, still on cloud nine from my Girl’s Trip last month and I can’t wait to share more deets about this trip. But first, let’s talk about the shopping. Paris is known for its fabulous fashion and accessories. You will find EVERY major fashion house in Paris from really affordable stores like H&M to top of the line stores such as Hermes. There is something to buy at literally every price point. However, my particular jam is handbags. I had a thought wayyy in the back of my mind to buy a bag. I wasn’t sure what style or brand but I kinda, sorta thought I would snag something cute.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Galeries Lafayette was our first stop, the big one with the fabulous rooftop views of Paris.

a view from the roof

Honestly, there were so many bags that I was a bit overwhelmed. If you are in Paris and love shopping, you must visit this location. The dining, shopping and views can’t be beat.

The Avenue des Champs-Élysées

I do not have to tell you about this famed street that is a shopper’s dream. There are super high end stores like Cartier and then there’s The Gap. The avenue again has something for every budget. Tons of places to eat – we chose Five Guys because the girls were starving and we wanted something super quick but delicious! But I was still on the hunt for a cute bag. While strolling the avenue, we stumbled upon Lancel. I had never heard of this French brand but the bags were calling me…Come in Robin, see what we have! I am glad I did!

this lady though…

Lancel

Lancel is a French brand that started in 1876 and is a premier French luxury brand. Each bag is handmade from luxurious leathers. There were so many beautiful styles but I am a sucker for a good crossbody. I chose the Clic de Lancel in black. Let’s look at this chic but edgy bag.

Lancel Paris
smooth glossy black leather
beautiful hardware/spacious interior/outside pocket/bag charm
silver hardware/bill compartment/card slots/compact
holds all the my current essentials
“With Clic, vintage understatement meets the rebellious elegance of today’s women.” -Lancel

VAT (Value Added Tax)

So here’s another good reason to buy luxury goods abroad. The Value Added Tax, or VAT, is a consumption tax assessed on the value added to goods and services – like a refund. So if you buy certain goods in Europe, you get a refund on your purchase based on the price, usually about 12%. Isn’t that THE best. Lancel did all the paperwork right in the store. When you leave, you present the form at the airport. You can choose a cash refund or have it applied to a credit card…easy peasy.

Currently obsessed with this chic crossbody. I think it falls right in the middle of being a casual weekend bag but equally good as a dressy bag. Loads of interior space to hold everything for the on the go girl! And, a matching wallet to pull off a polished look. I love that it is a French brand that is not so well known. After a 140 years, I think Lancel sure knows how to make a bag.

Have you purchased luxury goods abroad?

robincharmagne

9 Travel Gifts Under $25

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Hi pretties,

I am fresh off of a vacation with friends and hyped to share all the deets. So, last Thanksgiving we had a meeting in the ladies room (some of y’all are not going to catch that) and decided to take one BIG trip to celebrate our 55th b-day! Fast forward to October and me the my besties plus 1 are ready for our Girl’s Trip to Paris. And, it was magical! Yeah I know everyone says Paris is magical. But I knew it would be something special when the gifts starting coming. Everyone on the trip brought something cool and useful for the Fabulous, Fierce and Favored crew! Today I am sharing some of my favorite travel accessories, all under $25! Take a peek…

These products are perfect for a weekend getaway to your favorite city or a long-haul trip. Here are my faves – loving the ear buds, at a very reasonable price I might add. Especially considering on the last leg of my flight, I was horrified to hear the flight attendant hawking those cheap azz ear buds, not cool. And next up, phone gear. The phone stand makes it easier to watch movies you’ve downloaded to your phone. Moving on to my last favorite, if you rock a black suitcase, a fun luggage tag will help it stand out in a sea of black bags. On this trip, when I arrived at baggage claim, my bag was already off the conveyor. A fellow traveler said someone thought it was their bag until they saw my luggage tags.

I am so excited to share pics and stories from our Girl’s Trip! Tell me do you buy gifts for friends when traveling together?

robincharmagne

If We Were Having Coffee -Vol X

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  1. I would tell you that if you have not heard about The 1619 Project, get into it now, right now. In America we learn some things…but not all the things. I am getting a real education about the economics of slavery. It’s important and relevant for 2019!
  2. I would suggest trying these chunky funky boots for the Fall instead of a flat or an over the knee style. Pair with a funky backpack!
  3. I would say if you have financial savings goal, use an app like Qapital to meet that goal. I just met my savings goal for an upcoming trip and it was easy, peasy. Christmas is right around the corner, start saving today and by Thanksgiving, you could have all your holiday shopping funds. #not sponsored, past post here.
  4. I would confess I loved Downtown Abbey and can not wait for the movie. Big fan of period pieces – the costumes, the sets, the language, so good.
  5. I would say I am obsessed with designer cakes and this one is my favorite this week. The details make it look so life like and realistic. I would not eat a single slice.

This was a short week that felt like a super long week, like a week with 8 days. Don’t get me wrong, I’m thankful for every day and week, but sheez, quite glad this one is over. Not planning on doing a dang thang this weekend, except some self care, mostly skincare and some reading. Das it!

How was your week? Have a great weekend!

robincharmagne

55 Things – Monday Musing

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Happy Monday. This week kicks off my birthday on Saturday. A LOT has changed in 5 years since I celebrated my last milestone birthday – primarily the passing of my Dad, Sister, and Brother and Mom’s illness. I still feel a sense of loss most days, but for the most part, I have adjusted to this new normal that seems totally crazy. And, I am thankful for another birthday!

One thing that hasn’t changed are the lessons I learned in 50 years. Nope, I am not creating a whole list of 55 more lessons, but I am adding 5 more things I have learned in almost 55 years.

5things_birthday55_robincharmagne

LOL, it has been quite a ride to 55 and I keep learning and growing and being clear about what’s important. Some of it serious like being healthy – physically and mentally and some of it is just plain fun, like wearing white whenever I feel like it! I will see y’all in 5 years with 5 more things I have learned. What have you learned this year that is making a difference for you?

robincharmagne

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – Home

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Hello pretties,

Yes, I know I know, everybody is talking about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Why? It is a good sale which includes luxury items they may never or infrequently go on sale. Of course, loads of good fashion, but today I’m sharing some of my favorite home related picks in the sale.

Good huh! Gold is definitely going strong in home decor, I just love the gold serving pieces from Nordstrom beautiful bedding from Ted Baker, and who doesn’t love a good smell goods like from diptyque! I had a ball perusing all the goodies and saw a few I would love to snag! Are you browsing or shopping the sale? Any favorites?

robincharmagne