Archive for May, 2009

Happy Monday!

I can’t think of any better way to sail into the new week, than with treating myself to 60-70% off designer clothing at some of my favorite sample sale sites.. all while drinking my a.m. coffee.

Monday June 1st

Over at HauteLook, where the sales begin at 8: am PST / 11: am EST we have:

• Rock & Republic Jeans
• Michael Kors
• Grand Band

Also starting at 8: am PST / 11: am EST over at RueLaLa we have:

• Free People
• Luca Luca
• Mitchell & Ness

Then finally, at 9: am PST / noon if you’re EST, the Gilt Groupe sales kick off:

• Kiki de Montparnasse
• Nooka
• Thread Social
• Zero Halliburton
• Jan Leslie Cufflinks

Also, over at ideeli checkout these sales:

• Just Cavalli Shoes
• Just Cavalli Mens
• Bing Bang

I was checking out what was new at Coach the other day when I stumbled across the Ali Collection. According to Coach, “this summer is all about Ali”. The collection offers a new take on the classic hobo style, with each piece having it’s own unique little twist. All of the bags in the Ali Collection, however, are adorned with a pierced signature C medallion charm that resembles a jewelry line Coach introduced not too long ago.

Out of all of the handbags that make up Coach’s Ali Collection, I think I like the Ali Large Hobo the best. I like how nicely the leather on this bag slouches, creating almost a draped effect. The leather on these bags is just amazing and I especially love the pearlized finish that the Tangerine version possesses. So soft and yummy! This bag would be perfect for someone wishing to pull off a boho-chic look without having to commit to a bag with fringes, beads, or studs. In other words, there is no need to worry about this bag going out of style once all those trends have faded. Sounds like a win-win situation to me!

The Coach Ali Large Hobo measures 16″ x 13.5″ x 5.5″ and it retails for $378. The bag comes complete with a detachable long shoulder strap. It is currently available in Tangerine (pearlized leather), Mahogany (pebbled leather), or White (pebbled leather). Find it at Nordstrom, Macys, and Dilliards!

The Chat: Coach Ali!

It’s spokes person/actress/model/MTV Host/fashion designer Daisy Fuentes leaving Mr. Chow’s, the celebrity hot spot in Los Angeles, California. Besides the surprised look on her face, I spotted her handbag of choice almost instantly. What handbag did Daisy take out for a special dinner? Why an absolutely stunning Hermes Birkin in classic black. For the busy lady who claims many occupations, she must be making a nice amount of moolah to carry around such an exclusive piece. Ironically, Daisy Fuentes’ fashion-designing capability has been criticized by many fashionista’s alike, most commonly, lack of her own ideas. It’s no surprise to see a Daisy Fuentes bag resembling high-end designer goods. From Daisy Fuentes copied Jimmy Choo! to Daisy Fuentes inspired-by the Chanel Cabas Bag, she has no shame in borrowing couture brands thoughts and ideas. There really hasn’t been a craze for Daisy Fuentes handbags, and obviously, the designer herself prefers a more upscale piece instead of hers truly. Or perhaps she decided to give her personal accessory collection a rest and took the Hermes downtown, instead. One thing for sure is that she looks great and her bag is indeed impressive!

If your loving Daisy’s style, you can find Birkin handbags at your local Hermes or online at: Authentic Hermes on eBay

It’s Keeping Up With The Kardashian’s, Kourtney Kardashian and she’s looking extra fabulous on her day out with sibling Khloe in South Beach, Florida. The famous Cali Girls have packed their designer luggage and have headed to Florida, in pursuit of opening an addition to their chic clothing boutique, Dash. Cameras will follow the girls as they work on their own reality show, “Kourtney and Khloe in Miami”. Just imagine the loads of designer goodies that the girls flew from California to Florida. Judging by the pics, we can see that Kourtney couldn’t leave her beloved Gold Giant Hardware Balenciaga behind, and us Balenciaga fans can argue that it was probably the first item she snatched for the trip while still back home. Luscious leather and the perfect amount of bling can be found on Balenciaga’s Giant Hardware collection. Carry on the arm, shoulder, or handheld, whichever style you prefer, this piece is sure to please your way. I’m assuming her bag is the ‘City’ size, but it could be the ‘Work’, one thing for sure is whichever size it is, it’s fabulous.

Seeking Balenciaga in your life? Shop Balenciaga goods and accessories at your local boutique or online via: Bluefly (dot com) or try and score a deal on eBay.

image: splash

It’s Hanna Montana star Miley Cyrus, out and about, spotted by the paparazzi at her local frozen treat shop. The casually dressed Disney star was spotted in layered tank tops, faded denims, and a large array of bohemian style jewelry. Chowing down some frozen yogurt with her date, I couldn’t help but notice what handbag she found to be perfect for the event. Although it’s discreetly hidden by the right side of her body, just a small peak of the perforated leather was enough show to call out this handbag on. Miley’s bag of choice happens to be the Mahina XS by French couture brand Louis Vuitton. For those lucky ladies who own a piece of the Mahina line or for those familiar with these handbags in person, you know how beautiful these pretties can get! They’re lusciously soft and feminine, and I simply adore how these come monogrammed, although it doesn’t overtake the beauty of the leather handbag. Vuitton created so many sizes to choose from, from the incredibly huge size of the XXL to the perfect shoulder bag of XS. Besides the amazing leather found in this collection you’re sure to find a good selection of colors to choose from, pick from classic black to Miley’s preferred color of grey, you simply can’t go wrong with any color, let alone the Mahina line.

If you’re loving Miley’s style, you can shop Louis Vuitton goods and accessories via their website or at: Authentic Louis Vuitton on eBay

Clothing-exchange parties certainly aren’t anything new, especially among us shopaholics. Everyone brings articles of clothing that they no longer wear to the party. The clothing is laid out for everyone to see and a system is usually established for who gets to have first pick. It’s a great way to get rid of your old clothes, score some new clothes for free, and have some fun all at the same time.

But this whole clothing-exchange party thing got me thinking. What happens if you and your friends don’t all wear the same size? After all, this isn’t a perfect world that we live in. And what if you and your friends have a severe handbag and/or accessory fetish? My idea is to host an Accessory-Exchange Party instead! Just think about it! You could save some money in these tough economic times and still satisfy your urge to acquire some new goodies! Here’s how it would work:

1. The hostess in charge of the party sets up her living room like a designer boutique. She can arrange the furniture so that there is plenty of room to walk about. Her sofas, chairs, ottomans, coffee tables, or whatever can become “display cases”. Full-length mirrors are set up near each display. Finger foods and refreshments are available to promote mingling.
2. Each person invited to the party brings handbags and accessories that they no longer use (make sure the items are still in good condition, of course). The items can get sorted into groups (handbags, wallets/small leather goods, belts, shoes, scarves, etc.) and displayed nicely within the “boutique”.
3. Everyone is allowed some time to browse and try stuff on in front of the mirrors.
4. The hostess then has everyone draw a number from a hat or bowl. The person that draws #1 gets to choose something first, the person that draws #2 gets to choose something second, and so on. Once everyone has had a turn, the numbers go back in the hat or bowl and they are drawn again. Continue until all the items have been selected or nobody has an interest in anything else.
5. Allow people to offer to trade with one another if they were really wanting something or if they are having second thoughts.
6. The hostess takes the leftovers and donates them to a local charity organization. A battered-women’s shelter is an excellent choice and they are often looking for handbags to be donated.

Additional Tips:

1. Try to invite at least ten people, preferably those that have a lot of handbags and accessories in their repertoire. You want to make sure you have plenty of items to go around!
2. If you plan on hosting such a party more than once, try inviting some different people to each one. This will help ensure some variety in the selection of items and, hopefully, prevent items featured at a previous party from returning for a second round.
3. If two people are having a dispute over an item, have the group vote on who they think it looks best on. The person with the most votes gets to keep the item.

Have fun! This is a party, after all!

The Chat: Exchange Party!

Tick tock.. TheBagForum’s Sandra Roberts giveaway is coming to an end, in less than 12 hours.. so speed on over and make your mark!

Up for grabs is the brand new, perfect for spring / summer, Knotted Tote by Sandra Roberts! The tote features a double knotted straps, that are long enough to wear over the shoulder. A body made of italian leather. The interior features two zip pockets, and a main center compartment that includes inside backwall zip pocket, inside frontwall open accessory pockets, and zipper closure. Measurements: 14 x 15 x 2.5 (retail $390). Comes with a dustbag / sleeper.

Deadline: Sunday May 31st @ 11: am PST / 2: pm PST

To enter in this fabulous giveaway, all you have to do is reply in the official thread.

Be sure to check back on Monday for the next giveaway to be revealed!

55 Secret Street gets stung (in the best way) by MAC’s Naked Honey Body Wash.

Stiletto Jungle previews summer’s must have new lip products.

All About the Pretty can enjoy luxury shopping while vacationing on the beach at the Luxury Collection Boutique Mall in Cancun.

All Lacquered Up experiments with the matte nail trend by wearing matte and glossy nail art.

Allie is Wired features Lauren Conrad talking about life after The Hills.

Bag Bliss pick of the week: Buti Croc!

Bag Snob has the latest from Kara Ross F/W 2009 collection!

Beauty Snob discovers the magic of silver: COR silver soap!

Fashion Pulse Daily kind of can’t wait for fall to wear the cashmere-rich TSE fall 2009 collection.

Second City Style isn’t waiting for the sun-kissed glow of summer, we are faking it now with matte bronzer!

Shopping and Info used a black bodysuit to channel Angelina Jolie’s corset dress.

StyleBakery.com found chic beach cover-ups for every budget.

Stylehive is telling you to spring for a spring trench coat!

The Beauty Stop explains how to pick the right sunscreen for your skin type.

Know any men who need makeovers? Send their pictures to The Fashion Bomb for a chance to win them free gear from Parish Nation!

The Shoe Goddess loves that these Loeffler Randall flat boots can be worn in the summer!

TheMakeupGirl checks out Sunsilk’s Captivating Curls line and has bouncing curls with zero frizz in 100% humidity!

In my opinion, the best roses come from the House of Valentino. I’ve always been a fan of the feminine and floral based goods and accessories, and apparently, I’m not alone, as once again, new batches of cheerful tote bags have arrived this season. They come striking as usual, carrying unusual silhouettes and bold colors.

The Rose Leather Tote has got to be one of the most unusual pieces found in the collection. Overlapping layers of ruffles create this spiral design of a blossoming rose. Besides the floral detail on this bag, I really like how rich and thick the nappa lambskin leather arrives on this piece. More details include dark silk lining and a snap closure for quick and easy access to your beloved essentials. This totes design isn’t too common among your average handbags, and I wouldn’t necessarily call this an everyday bag. Yet it’s fun and unique, so why not add a one of a kind piece to your collection. Double rolled handles allow this bag to be carried on the crook of the arm or simply handheld. This pretty does come with a steep price tag of $2,395 and is available for pre-order via: Valentino Room @ Saks.com

The Chat: Valentino Rose!