Trend: Caramel and Cream

Jul 07, 2011 by mel

I am LOVING this look of caramel colored bags and cream clothing from Fabulous K.

caramel and cream is summer sweet!

How would you put a similar outfit together, using one of our handbags?

I would definitely choose the Brittany Caribbean Tote that I used in yesterday’s style post.

Hello, Brittany!

The look: summer’s maxi dress trend

Jul 06, 2011 by mel

With accessories, you need to dress according to the outfit you wear — and this includes adding a purse to your ensemble. So, what do you pair with the season’s hottest outfit trend: the maxi? Simple, chic and classic jewelry — or even avoid individual pieces altogether to opt for a handbag as your statement accessory.

With bright, colorful floral prints (as seen below), a classic tote or messenger bag will take you between afternoon errands to late-nights with margaritas on your favorite patio. Stay away from busy patterns or slouchy hobos that will otherwise over-power your patterned dress and overwhelm that “easy” look of summer.

Flower Power!

Match with Brittany Caribbean Summer Tote (which comes in an amazing seven colors):

Essential Summer Tote!

Since maxi dresses tend to stray away from solid colors (most women cannot carry that ensemble off without accessorizing for the season properly), here’s another breezy example — the ECI Jersey Maxi Dress from Nordstrom.

70s Revival!

Similarly patterned — albeit not as bright — this airy ankle-length dress doesn’t need much in the way of accents. Keep your style simple by pairing with a quilted shoulder bag. Both colors of the Debra and Melissa flap shoulder bags pair well with the scheme of this busy, but chic outfit, keeping it dressy.

As Blue as the Summer Skies!

Now, for more casual affairs, some still enjoy the luxury of a chain-strap quilted handbag, but others prefer something with more room — summer adventures can take you anywhere, you know. Again, a simple, colored tote would work great here as well.

What handbags or accessories do you pair with your maxi dresses?

Leather Handbags — now in color!

Jun 30, 2011 by mel

There’s nothing better than owning a genuine leather handbag. Durable, chic and decidedly more “rich” looking in forms of craftsmanship and style. And what I love best about the new arrivals, is the plethora of hot summer colors available in these natural satchels, hobos and messenger bags. If you haven’t heard, this season is ALL about bold, bright shades of fun.

Here are my picks for a potential next colorful addition to your accessory closet:

Jackie’s Luxury Patent Tote. Large, hot pink and in charge. All pre-requisites to enjoy your summer to the best of your ability.

Aristo. Probably the most unique green handbag that I’ve seen in the industry. Its hobo shape is a force to be reckoned with for both summer and beyond (I’m predicting green to be Fall’s go to color).

Easy Rider Satchel comes in multiple color combos, and is also sold in leather vs. lace facade for your dual personality.

Casey Damier in baby pink is not quite the boldest of statements, but perky and girly just the same to pair up with your maxi dresses and beach cover-ups. And then there’s the Martha Exotic. Oh, that blue is as happy as the cloudless summer sky. This is a must for my closet this year.

Janet Quilted Shoulder Bag is a classic. Know that going in. And its cross-body styling is perfect for vacations and day-long travels. The colorful exterior is just an icing on your Fourth of July cupcakes. Or the sprinkles.

Which leather handbag is your favorite summer accessory?

Summer Beach-worthy Bags: are you worthy?

Jun 21, 2011 by mel

It’s official (as of today): SUMMER IS HERE. Even if temperature-wise, it feels as though its humidity has been around for a few weeks. The heat index is probably my least favorite aspect of the summer. I mean, I LOVE the expectation that there’s a greater chance for blue skies and outdoor activities, but 99% of the time, it ends with me exhausted and sweaty (I’m so much more of a Fall person). Be that as it may, it’s good to be prepared with light, airy fabrics during heat waves like this — and I think the same goes for purses as well. Regardless if you’re stay-cationing or traveling to even warmer climates (*gasp*).

Looking chic on the beach is easy, when you are accessorized appropriately. I mentioned our new navy-striped canvas bag in an earlier post, but here are a few other handbags that are shoreside-appropriate.

Cheryl Dou, a new arrival, is a great bucket bag for the season. The contrasting colors are bright and fun — much like most of us wish the summer will be. This handbag has one purpose: to tuck away and organize all your belongings for a long day in the sun. Inside, there’s room to pack your SPF and flip-flops, as well as anything for a quick change. Large enough for a few big items (beach towel included), Cheryl Dou will also double as your favorite everyday bag. The beach is THIS WAY.

A favorite from last summer, Betty Pretzel remains a popular handbag for summer. This tote has versatility written all over it — and might even scream ”Picnic time!” Betty will pair with your sundresses for backyard barbecues and look cool for your outdoor musical festivals. Heck, I even carry this one to the ballgame! Regardless of outdoor adventure, a large main compartment will hold your sunglasses or umbrella – fully determined upon the weather circumstances of today. Assorted pockets and pouches will hold sunscreen, bug repellent or eating utensils. Mustard not included, however.

Jennifer Explorer Tote (I and II and BOTH new to the shop), is prepared to take you on new adventures — good thing you brought a map! *snicker* ‘Cuz you might get lost in this globetrotter-of-a-bag. But you can find your place in this world by carrying everything with you, stowed in their appropriate compartments (overhead or otherwise). Make sure your seatbelt if fastened and your seat is in the upright position. We’re taking off with this new handbag!

We’re not worthy! Which bag will you be carrying this summer?

Summer Essential: Canvas Handbags and Stripes

Jun 16, 2011 by mel

The summer heat calls for accessories that are light in fabric and chic in fashion. As for purses, my arm can’t handle the stickiness of leather material (and I’ve had way too many sweat-induced color bleeds from my handbag straps), so I opt for a cotton tote or canvas hobo for my summertime wardrobe.

Keeping on trend, stripes naturally project a nautical theme that always seems to be “in” around vacation time (that is, if you take a break between June and August), and the color navy is inherently compatible. A little of the red, white & blue in attire is somewhat patriotic in memory, what with being surrounded by American holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. And yet, all those colors correspond with how you should be styled in these hot temperatures.

Now, you can find both stripes and canvas together in one of our new arrivals: the Navy Striped Canvas Hobo.

As its description suggests: Inspired by travels to the Mediterranean and stateside beach vacations, the Navy Striped Canvas Hobo is a summer essential for any nomadic heart. Cinched closed and tassel accented by quality leatherette strap, your eyes can’t help but migrate between the exterior stripes and contrasting solid-colored fabric lined interior.

To prevent any vagabond beach necessities, the inside contains one main compartment, a couple open pouches and a side zippered pocket to keep your sunscreen and sunglasses separated from any wayward sand and sea.

Will you embrace the striped trend this season and carry the navy striped canvas hobo with you on summer adventures?

Tie one on!

Jun 10, 2011 by mel

Have you followed the summer trend of tying scarves onto your purse straps? I’ve seen the accessorizing in several fashion magazines, from People Style Watch to Lucky — and on everyone from style bloggers to celebrities. Well, the look is totally cute and “breezy” for the season — not to mention cheap and easy. Also, I like the idea of having a scarf on-hand for inevitable changes in weather or cold malls and theaters. To get the look: you can either buy a set of printed scarves… and simply, tie it to the handle of your bag OR you can select one of these PRE-MADE trendsetters, part of our Rita Printed Totes collection.

Check out the two different styles — one is a rounded tote, tied with a bow for extra feminine touch. Coming or going, this tan tote is a statement accessory. I love that its rich exterior will also transition well from mid-summer heat spells to the cool breath of fall. Playing double duty on your fashion calls.

And the other… well, it’s a more square-shaped tote than the other, but also comes pre-attached and woven with a scarf accent. It’s exceptionally chic in structure and shape — and large for your heavy shopping excursions. Errands, anyone?

Which one will you tie on?

What was she wearing?

Jun 09, 2011 by mel

More like, what was she carrying?

I love these features. I think the purses — as well as the outfit ensembles — all say a lot about each celebrity’s personality, no?

So, which purse style do you identify with: the fun printed canvas bag, chic folded flap clutch, elegant small hand-held evening bag, woman-on-a-mission large leather tote? Or the double shoulder bags (oh, my arms are tired) look?

photo from Who What Wear

White is in… what do YOU pair with it?

Jun 03, 2011 by mel

Memorial Day has passed, so the fashion “rules” tell us that wearing white is now in session. Or at the very least, safe from the glaring and judgmental eyes of those who follow such silly rules. While I’m not the type that can do white from head-to-toe, I certainly LOVE the look (I’m just too klutzy to trust myself wearing the shade), especially in a cute pair of summer shorts of a maxi dress accented with brilliant accessories. But all white attire can benefit from a great-looking summer handbag.

Rule #1: Don’t carry a white bag while wearing a white outfit. Accessories are where you get to play, so don’t wear an all-over colorless ensemble completely. That would be boring.

Enough with the rules! Here are a few suggestions to help guide you into what to carry this season (with your white, of course):

Play with color: I love a bold color contrast. Hot pink with white is probably one of my favorite combos. And Jackie’s Luxury Tote is amazing when paired with your professional white suit (oh how I WISH I was so bold).

Patterns and textures are summer-licious: Floral prints round out the all-white AND 70s trends together with one purse, but I think those prints are too “last year.” Opt instead for a quilted envelope purse like the Jasmin Quilted Shoulder Bag (in five gorgeous colors!).

The nude is totally on point with summer trends:

Where you going?: Consider what’s on your weekend agenda before planning your summer outing. Music or arts festival with a white, lace sundress? You will love having the Carol Striped Chic Satchel on your arm. Also: remember that messenger bags (or additional straps to convert your handbag) are your friend this summer.

Need another inventive alternative? The Nell Smart Hobo Handbag coverts to a backpack — how genius! And perfect for summer, if I do say so myself.

Tell us in the comments how you will match up your accessories to white fashion this summer!

Open forum: mixed materials in handbags

Jun 02, 2011 by mel

How do you feel about the use of mixed materials in handbags?

When I mention “mixed materials,” I mean using a combination of fabrics on the exterior, like leather and lace or patchwork suede panels. I’ve long been a fan of adornment on my purses: be that studs, buckles or chains… and even tassel accents. But a layover of material gives a great bag even more personality — and a unique spirit, and a vintage-inspired edge.

If you ARE a fan, then you MUST check out the Easy Rider collection in our new arrivals. Created in six different colors, these lace-covered genuine leather handbags were meant for the dual personality of the good girl who wants to be just a little bad (or vice versa, I suppose). With the traditional satchel structure, these bags will definitely be your go-to accessory this season. I also love its multi-purpose facade: appropriate for work professionals, as well as a great conversation piece for your weekend travels.

Tell us what you think about this hot new arrivals in the comments.

Woven handbags: a summer staple

May 26, 2011 by mel

This holiday weekend marks the unofficial start to SUMMER. In fact, temperatures in excess of 80 degrees have already confirmed it. I’m excited to put away tights and break out the open-toe shoes and sandals. And oh, the SUNDRESSES!

I love summer fashion for many reasons, but especially for handbag trends. Sure, most purses get smaller, and cross-body bags become more popular with a growing list of scheduled events like arts and music festivals. Woven handbags are the epitome (and the centerpiece) of summer wardrobe: pair with casual wear (as most of us seemingly don to prevent overheating from June through August), match varied vacation attire and double well as a beach accessory (with some large enough to carry a bikini and a pair of flip-flops for a secondary weekend adventure). But I love the look of a woven shoulder bag (either with exposed straw materials or in “summery” colors like white, natural or light pink) with a floppy hat, big sunglasses and printed maxis.

Here are my favorites for the season:

Sparkly AND Beachy!

Tote-ally Fabulous!

Pink Me! Pink Me!

Twisted Over Woven with Braids.

Which is your favorite woven handbag?