If there’s one thing Chyka Keebaugh doesn’t shy away from, it's all things glamour; we’d be confident in assuming diamonds run through her veins. This season, she brings even more radiance to her latest collaboration with Blue Illusion.
Chyka dresses for Chyka and Chyka only
Chyka is renowned for her refined sense of style, which has evolved over her career; she always maintained a steady thread of luxury throughout. Inspiring us to cling to our inner child’s desire to dress up, “I love putting an outfit together and bringing the fun in with great jewellery, a fabulous scarf, a big pair of sunglasses and beautiful shoes.” For Chyka, the famous quote by Coco Chanel advising that “before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off,” is truly obsolete.
“It’s so much fun to create interesting looks that you know people will appreciate. I am not scared of colour. Style to me is an expression of who you are, and I love the fact that we have the opportunity to be as versatile as we would like.” – Chyka Keebaugh
Nowadays, style inspiration can come in many ways, but in all honesty, it can become a little overwhelming. With every social media platform having its say on what the next trend will be, Chyka hopes to encourage you to curate your own style and be playful with the looks you create. “Fashion to me is something I absolutely adore, and having fun with it is just so exciting.” A sense of style can be found in any avenue; all you have to do is take the time to look up from your phone and look at the world around you. Chyka admires people who challenge themselves with their style and urges you to put your own spin on her collection. You never know, you might even become a source of inspiration for Chyka herself!
“I’m incredibly lucky that I get to travel as much as I do. I’ve visited many different countries and places. I adore sitting and people watching as they go about their daily business… Whether it’s a young girl experimenting with a new look, an older woman with a new hairdo or even just a busy person walking the street with a fabulous outfit on. I truly appreciate any effort that people put into creating something special.” – Chyka Keebaugh
Occasionally, however, a quick scroll before bed or on the morning commute is inevitable. Chyka loves Pinterest and Instagram. To find the most inspirational creators and style connoisseurs, take charge of your algorithm and be selective of the content you consume. Chyka’s own Instagram is an invaluable source of inspiration, from ballgowns we could only dream of to dinner party tips and tricks.
The Art of Dressing up
True to Chyka’s style and personality, this collection is beautifully infectious. It has something for all women, whether you want jewels dripping from the shoulders down (and we don’t mean metaphorically) or you want to elevate a simple, understated outfit with eye-catching accessories. We’re inviting you to immerse yourself in Chyka’s world, which she very much wants us all to be a part of.
The star of the show, other than Chyka herself, of course, is the Sculpted Beaded Check Jacket. Chyka believes “every woman needs a great blazer”, and this is her iteration of just that. Inspired by the runways of Milan, both Chyka and the team at Blue Illusion “thought it would be fun to create two different jackets depending on your mood.” Yes, the jacket also comes in a more subtle, less bedazzled version.
For Chyka, “It’s a fabulous outfit for winter and can definitely be worn many ways.” The strong tailoring, with added shoulder pads, in Glen Print fabrication makes for an envious power suit when worn with the matching Wide Leg Check Pant. The flattering princess seam follows the contours of the body, while the gold buckle belt allows for added cinch to accentuate the waist. It’s also incredibly soft to touch, so comfort can follow you wherever you go!
If opting for the plain, but equally as statement-worthy, version of the jacket, Chyka offers her own styling tips, and be sure to accessorise with the Chyka Brooch:
“I absolutely love the plain style jacket because for me, there is so much versatility. This jacket can be worn open or with a beautiful lace console underneath. It can be worn over the shoulders with a beautiful knit jumper. The pieces can be separated, and the jacket can be worn with a pair of jeans and a great pair of boots. I love versatile winter dressing, and this is one of those great pieces that can do so much.”
Much like the inspiration behind the tailored suit, the Draped Blouse is a Blue Illusion X Chyka take on the “scarf-tops” coming down the runways last season. This collection is all about bringing timeless classics into new light. “I absolutely love timeless pieces, and this beautiful Coppertone shirt is just that,” she explains. “It has just the perfect amount of draping around the neck and looks fabulous under the jacket or on its own. The colour is truly beautiful, and I love everything to do with this tone. The fabric is luxurious, and it really makes you feel extra special.” To put it simply, this blouse has all the elements for a luxurious winter wardrobe, from an autumnal tone to a lustrous fabric.
A handbag is essential for every outfit. However, if a handbag doesn’t function for all your needs, from an extra make-up bag to snacks on-the-go, it might as well go out with the hard waste! Luckily, Chyka is the self-professed “ultimate handbag girl” and has designed a bag with both functionality and fashion in mind.
With its drawstring closure and adjustable strap, the Chyka Bag can easily adapt to whatever your day might throw your way. It’s a modern take on a classic black bag that should become intertwined with any fashion-focused woman’s wardrobe. Chyka adamantly believes that “When you don’t feel like buying a piece of clothing, a bag can elevate an outfit. I never go anywhere without mine.” And for all those wondering what Chyka’s handbag essentials are, look no further. She can’t leave the house without her lip gloss, glasses, sunglasses, mobile phone and finally her keys.
A little OTT never hurt anyone
As women get older, society expects them to take to the sidelines, but to that we “say step forward, stand taller, and wear your confidence louder than ever.” This Chyka collection is the exact tool you need to take the reins and put your most opulent self forward.
“As we get older, [Chyka believes] we sometimes forget how fun it is to dress up and sparkle.” As we enter a new era of our lives, it’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover your sense of style and fall in love with its evolution. And with that in mind, we leave you
with some parting words of wisdom from our ultimate girl crush, Chyka Keebaugh:
“Looking at what you have and giving it a revamp is always fun. Do it with a girlfriend if you can’t decide on your own. Don’t underestimate how important a good tailor is to fix some of those beautiful pieces. Look at what’s in fashion and choose the pieces you know work for you and add them back in. Have fun and try on lots of looks even if you know they won’t work because you never know…” – Chyka Keebaugh
