Archive for November, 2010

In Greek mythology, a nymph is a minor goddess. They are typically associated with a land form (e.g. woods, river, etc), but can also be part of the retinue of a god. An interesting tidbit, but I am not exactly sure what it has to do with the Valentino Nymphe Garden Tote you see pictured here.

A crazy gorgeous piece, the tote features a rather dramatic display of silk blooms. I love how the cream and blush flowers at the top fade to gray and then black as they make their way toward the bottom. The flowers are simple and relaxed, not packed together and stuffy like other flower-filled bags.

Continue Reading

Prada bags have fairly classic styling. It’s not difficult to identify them when you catch a glimpse of one of their bags. That’s not the case with their Spring offerings. A marriage of materials with a touch of whimsy are eye-catching and just the right transition into resort.

The Lino Twist Frame Shoulder Bags offer a blend of linen, lambskin, python or croc accents in a way that just happens to work. These are smaller bags in the 10″ x 7 ” X 3″ or 11″ x 6″ x 4″ range. Perfect for luncheons or that evening yacht club party. Personally, I think you could pull it off with some sophisticated dark denim and darling tops suitable for cocktails.

The turquoise and lime green accents are going to be two of the major colors of the season. Prada is right on trend with that selection. For those who love exotic bags but can’t afford the whole bag at $3 – $5K a pop, these are a great option by utilizing it as an accent. I’m loving how the python pops in turquoise and the croc clasp accent is simply darling. Such a beautiful detail! Lime green suede is somehow the perfect accent with the natural colored python.

Continue Reading

I love crystals so it comes as no surprise that I’m in love with everything at Swarovski. To me, everything just looks much more prettier with some sophisticated bling on it.

Swarovski always has the most gorgeous clutches one can ever imagine. A clutch that is completely covered in crystals will always catch someone’s eye. When it’s a clutch that is covered in Swarovski crystals it makes a statement.

The “Allegro” Silver Evening Bag by Swarovski is on my current wish list. It’s gorgeous and almost looks like it’s a bag that is engulfed in diamonds. My favorite part of the bag is definitely the fake lock closure. I’m assuming it’s fake because by the picture it looks as if the clutch has a flap closure. The lock makes it look more exclusive and different than any other clutch out there.

Continue Reading

It’s that time of year when I diligently prepare “appropriate” wish lists for in-laws, family and my husband. I take into consideration whether or not it has potential for fulfillment due to perceived frivolity and expense. My in-laws are conservative in lifestyle and while they have three homes, don’t spend on high fashion purchases. My parents have been hit by the recession, so not asking for anything there and my husband thinks I already have too many purses! I tend to buy my own bags most of the time. So, what’s a fashion-minded girl to do? Since I don’t have the chance to ask for my deepest heart’s desire, I thought it would still be fun to prepare my dream wish list.

Vintage Chanel 2.55
Growing up, my mother and I were avid vintage collectors. We collected bags, jewelry and clothing from the 50′s. I learned to appreciate the value of high-quality pieces as enduring and timeless. I never ran across a vintage Chanel. Every time I get close to the new version of this dream, the price jumps up putting it more our of my reach. While I continue to lust after the new styles, I dream of finding a gently used vintage one at a fabulous price. The Holy Grail of a sort. Of course even vintage comes with a price. This vintage black 2.55 is at Shopbop for $3150 showing that had I taken the plunge years or even a decade ago, it would have been a better investment than the stock market.
Discover: Chanel at ShopBop

Nancy Gonzalez Tassled Bag
Every collection deserves an amazing exotic bag. Several years ago, I fell in love with Nancy Gonzalez handbags. It was the first time I’d seen Crocodile bags that were soft and supple rather than hard. I should have taken the plunge then when prices were half of what they are now. The lesson learned is buy what you love and buy less! This beautiful tassled bag showcases beautiful camel croco in a more ladylike style. It is an extremely lare size though, so it is sure to capture loads of attention. It measures 16″ x 9″ x 71/2″. A perfect fit for my collection! $3650.
Discover: Gonzalez Saks Boutique

Continue Reading

I have a secret obsession, well maybe not so secret, with black handbags that feature golden hardware. I even buy shoes that have the same pattern so I can match them with my handbags more easily.

I’m currently drooling over the Botkier “Ava”. Not only does is have black leather and gold hardware but it also is pretty unique looking. From the shoulder chain, to the zipper closures, all the way to the shape/stye of the bag this bag is totally different than any bag I’ve ever seen. It may be different but it sure is a beauty.

What makes this bag so unique in my opinion is the odd mixture of the features. Zipper closures, shoulder chain strap, and studded tassels. Seems like the designer of this bag couldn’t decide on which trend to stick with so they decided to combine three different ones. You either see a bag with just chains or covered in studs or features studs, but never all three. I’m personally not complaining because I happen to love each trend!

Continue Reading

The iPad has gotten to be quite the popular gadget. I have seen so many of them floating around at school, it’s starting to look like the netbook has some serious competition! In fact, there are three people in one of my classes that break out their iPad for every class period (compared to two people who bring a netbook). That’s saying a lot considering there are only 10 people in the class! And now, with all the talk of iPads on TBF, I’m finding myself wanting one as well! It would make reading all those darn PDF files so much easier!

So for all you bagistas out there that already own an iPad, I have put together a list of affordable designer iPad cases and sleeves. After all, you wouldn’t want your iPad to feel neglected when looking at all the other snazzy items hanging out inside your bag! But not all iPad cases/sleeves are created equal. You will find that there is a little something for everyone out there, depending on your preferences. Below you will find some of my favorites!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jumble Logo Silicone iPad Sleeve
For the minimalist gal, we have the simple iPad sleeve. It will keep your iPad protected while looking sharp at the same time! I just love the bright colors!
Only $58 at Bloomingdales!

Continue Reading

My style is very night and day. Some days I love the classic fashion look and other days I love sporting the rocker chick look. One thing is for certain though, I’ve never really been into anything vintage inspired especially handbags.

When I saw the Rebecca Minkoff “Covet” Top Handle Satchel, I quickly had a change of heart. The bag definitely has a vintage look, but it also can pass as professional. This bag would look perfect with a suit, especially the black version, which is also available at Nordstrom.

I can totally envision seeing people carrying this bag around Soho, and the Village in New York, but also in a business setting. That’s probably the best feature about this bag is that it’s so versatile.

Continue Reading

Stiletto Jungle goes beyond basic black with the new work-appropriate Jimmy Choo Cosmic Printed Pump.

Allie is Wired covers the very pregnant Miranda Kerr covering Vogue Australia.

BagBliss chats with Kooba’s Abbe Held!

The whole Prada bag at Bag Snob just works together magically.

Smoky, Sultry and Smoldering with Bobbi Brown at Beauty Snob.

Coquette picks her favorite limited edition makeup palettes that have arrived just in time for the holidays.

Fashion Pulse Daily guides you to the best picks from the LANVIN for H&M Collection

The Jet Set Girls wonder if you’ve got what it takes to be one of MAC’s Fall 2011 models!

KRISTOPHER DUKES is wanting Tony Burch Leopard Silk Robe.

Manolo has realized two things about the movie My Fair Lady. Conclusion the First: Eliza Doolittle was the prostitute.

Oprah’s Favorite Things show airs today – SHEfinds provides a refresher course of her past favorites and will have the scoop later today with this year’s must-have gifts.

Second City Style thinks since it’s almost holiday time, it’s time to discuss dressing up the LBD.

Shopping and Info loves Angelina Jolie’s black Prada riding boots she has been wearing in Budapest.

The Beauty Stop takes a close look at LipFusion Plump & Replump Lipstick.

The Shoe Goddess needs these Christian Louboutin “Maggie” Pumps for those days when she wants to show off her inner diva!

V-Style: Personal stylist, Vanessa Valiente, let’s you in on the best slacks for your professional looks.

Donna, Lulu, Kate, Amber. No, these are not the latest batch of Top Models, they are some of the bag lines from the incredibly talented Katherine Kwei. A former PR executive, Katherine decided to pursue her dream of designing handbags in 2002. Graduating from the London College of Fashion, Katherine worked with Susan Hunter and Billy Bag Company during her studies. In 2006, she worked with Zac Posen on his Spring/Summer line and launched her line in 2007.

That 2007 collection caught my attention and I fell in love with her Donna line. I still love that style, but she has developed so many other unique styles utilizing her Chinese knot technique, there’s essentially a bag for every fashion type out there! Whether you love glam rock or are a sensible and ultra-fashionable executive, you will find something to treasure!

The Spring/Summer 2011 collection pays tribute to the music of the psychedelic ’60s to the ’80s disco scene and that vibrant, playful, stylish woman who everyone notices in the scene and everyone wants to be with one day. The new colors and styles will make it hard for you to choose, but so much fun exploring the possibilities!

Following the convertible trend, the Donna line adds a new, large hobo with a detachable, adjustable strap. In the snake version, beautiful and sophisticated grey/gold and a leopard print are stunning and versatile. The hand-dyed lambskin with watersnake versions features a rich chocolate, black and metallic. The Donna Batik line features brilliantly shaded turquoise and tangerine options. All of which are available in the six Donna styles.

Continue Reading