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?

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?

If I were a bag, I’d be…

May 20, 2011 by mel

Did you know: your personality and handbag choice are directly related

In the article “Your Handbag, Your Self“, celebrity stylist and designer Rachel Zoe claims that what you carry “is an absolute indicator of who they are and what [your] style is.” The article goes on to discuss how everything about a bag — including its exterior details — “reveals clues about its owner.”

As you know, I’m a HUGE fan of… well, HUGE bags. But I don’t consider myself a hoarder. At least, not anything outside of accessories.

*sigh* It says I’m “not focused”… isn’t that the truth for most creative types?

That said, I usually plan my bags for a) what I’m wearing that day; b) where I’ll be going and c) if there’s the potential of a “plan b.” Which I suppose puts me in between “party girl” mode (listed below) and above-mentioned hoarder. I have MANY purses in my collection that reflect a variety of personalities. And most times, it depends on my mood and my outfit choice. I’ve even been known to carry a canvas tote AS my handbag because I’ll be out shopping and running too many errands to think about carrying a second (or third) bag (that would label me as an “upwardly mobile do-gooder, FYI). The phrase “a little crunchy” cracks me up; I have ZERO clue what that means even.

Some of the additional personality classifications include:
The Early Adopter – purse owner that is “cutting edge” and knowledgeable of trends (or might even make her own)
Party Girl – wears an adjustable messenger bag; prepared for anything that comes at her
Pantsuit Exec – looking fashion-forward, while wanting to be “taken seriously”
The Eternal Prepster – conservative, practical and “secretly relishes the status symbol”
Upwardly Mobile Do-Gooder – “a little crunchy, but brand aware”

How would you tag yourself? Do you think these categories are correct? Do you fall somewhere in between as well?

Royal Handbags: Kate Middleton, blue purses and more!

Apr 26, 2011 by mel

Oh, we’re all caught up in Royal Wedding fever, that’s for sure. And the soon-to-be-princess has a certain penchant for gorgeous handbags:

Which is your favorite?

Did you know that Kate Middleton used to be an accessory buyer? Her style is seemingly so simple, with sincere devotion to clean, straight lines — and nothing too modern or trendy (or “sexy” — although, I suppose that is all relative to each person). She emphasizes her personal style by a few over-sized or statement pieces (in this case, purses). For high-society events, she dons the occasional hat, but you will nearly always see her with a standard handheld clutch.

But with the mere mention of “royal,” we can’t help but think of these beautiful blue handbags for spring and summer.

The Elizabeth Signature Tote not only has such a “regal” sounding name, but it’s royal-ly perfect, no?

This high-quality leatherette handbag is so awesome. Its ringed-attached double handles, accented with faux bamboo makes this so perfect for, like, whatever! I just love the silver hardware and dangly leatherette and bamboo tassel from the front – I know, right? A gnarly dual-directional, visible surface zipper opens to a large main compartment or something.

Totes are a definite highlight of the year, with hobos going to the back of the closet (until fall). And chain-strapped messenger bags are the must have trend for those on style watch.

How will you carry the Elizabeth Signature Tote this season?

Diary of my favorite bag…

Apr 19, 2011 by mel

I used to be much more into designer hoopla and pompousness. Until a $400 bag fell apart on me mere months after purchase. Granted, it might have been “warranted” against these defects (with the option to send in for repair), but I wonder sometimes why, as women, we buy into the “luxury” model of accessories. If something — say a bag or a necklace — is unique, I want that more often than the desire to wear a name brand (and I always take off obnoxious tags or charms that indicate where my bag may be from). I suspect, perhaps, as I’ve planned a new shopping budget and taken on new financial responsibilities (read: saving cash), I no longer care where or from whom my bag came.

Designer inspired bags often come in the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship that the designer labels do — but I don’t like, purchase or promote designer RIP OFF bags. At all. I mean, if you don’t have the money to purchase the real deal, then why does your closet have to circumvent around a “fake” label. There is no shame in not owning every $1,000 handbag that a celebrity carries. Find your own style statement and consider your own financial means when shopping. Seriously. (OK, end rant)

As for name brand bags: OK, maybe it’s not some unheard-of, rare duck feathers adornments or prized calf leathers of a small Italian village, but as far as I’m concerned, purses have a shelf life of a couple years regardless of their origins. Especially if they are intended to fit into the latest trends. I cannot justify spending hundreds of dollars on a handbag that will be “out of season” next year. Granted, I will invest a BIT more money on, say, a beaded evening bag that will be paired with my black tie wardrobe pieces or the daily use, ubiquitous dark brown leather handbag that matches, well everything in my closet.

Budget-friendly bags have a place in every accessory room (and credit card statement) because of their inherent nature that you’ll carry a few times or for only a couple seasons, then either hang it up for longer than you need to keep it, donate it or store for future trends that will inevitably return. If you’re like me, you own multiple bags like this. In fact, I change out my handbag regularly — almost every other day — so I like to keep a variety of sizes, colors, materials, patterns and strap lengths. You know: bright-colored purses on dreary days and sequined clutches for happy hours and nights out.

Thoughts on designer vs. designer inspired?

A Little Friday Fun!

Apr 01, 2011 by mel

Sure, animal printed handbags are in almost every other season (including being a HUGE trend for 2011), but THIS spring and summer, I found a purse to one-up all those “other” fashionistas: the cat tote!

For the woman on the go! Soft enough to double as a pillow on trains and airplanes too, what with all those travel miles you collect on a regular basis. Best of all, there are plenty of breeds from which to choose to match a variety of style preferences, wardrobe collections or daily color choices. Matches up with everything from casual weekend wear to hot party dresses. RAWR!

But if you’re more of a unicorn kinda girl, I’ve got you covered (with rainbows)!

This bag doesn’t let any silly business meeting get in the way of having some fun during your work day — and the playful, fuzzy pink exterior just screams “I AM IN CHARGE!” Bonus: check out that sparkle! Talk about animal urges.

How would you incorporate either of these super-fun totes into your wardrobe?

APRIL FOOL’S!

Have you pulled any good pranks on any of your friends or family today?

Warm Weather Trends: woven handbags

Mar 30, 2011 by mel

If there’s one thing I love about the return of warm weather, it’s the influence of beach wear and accessories into everyday fashion. For that, I am enamored by woven handbags.

Our collection of weaved and basket-like purses pack a certain vacation-like quality, which resembles straw, rattan or bamboo. These elegant bags are beautiful, especially when exposing each intricate pattern and the depth of its crisscrossed and braided materials. Woven handbags are inherently practical and durable — but also, exceptionally functional.

Depending on the occasion: girls night out, date night, afternoon of errands or on days when you want to add a little bit of fun into your workday best — check out these irresistible-looking chic handbags when you want to remain breezy cool.

Roomy, and meant for everyday use, the Joy Woven Bowling Satchel is perfect for both kinds of alley struts. Consider it a perfect score.

Perfect for a tote around the block or a weekend away, the Kari Woven Plaited Hobo is a mixer. In a good way. What will you get into, carrying this diva?

The Lisa Woven Hobo is a classic beauty. She likes long walks in the park, small dogs, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces… and a purse that will carry all her baggage. Watch out for this one! She’s a scene stealer.

Lora Shiny Hobo was made with a very specific woman in mind: the one who catches your eye immediately upon entrance. But is it the woman herself… or that gorgeous bag? (We won’t tell)

And if there was ever a bag created with the smart lady in mind — it’s the Lorraine Semi Woven Smart Tote.

Camera One:

Camera Two:

If it’s a chameleon you want; that’s what we can give you. Yes, that is the SAME bag. We think that’s MORE than smart. That’s chic. And a little badass.

How will you incorporate woven handbags into your look?

I Spy (on a celebrity): embellished messenger handbags

Mar 23, 2011 by mel

Check out Miss Rachel Bilson, carrying Phillip Lim’s uber-chic embellished bow handbag — currently retailing for greater than $700 (the purse, not the celebrity):

Then check out iFashionHandbag’s designer-inspired Patricia Bow Studded Clutch — at a MOST definitely better value (we tend to think) at $42.95:

For seasonal and designer trends, I always think it best to err on the side of the pocketbook (by saving some funds, of course). And with an additional discount of 40% off (use code 40OFF at checkout), you’ve got this in the bag!

Handbags that fit under: “Easter Best”

Mar 22, 2011 by mel

When we were kids, we were forced to wear pastels for Easter Sunday — complete with new dress, new Spring shoes, a bonnet and a new purse. While traditions changed over the years, the “gift” of a new purse did not. In fact, my mom twisted the yearly holiday by indulging in our spring whims; instead of Easter baskets, we would receive Easter Purses. Yes, our “prize” would be hidden in various places throughout her home and filled with our favorite candies (white chocolate and Cadbury eggs) and some make-up samples… I always loved Easter. And miss her working in a large department store.

The unofficial beginning of Spring — and of the permission to wear white — is April 24 this year. Regardless of your religious beliefs, I think Easter can be a good benefit to your accessory collection. A new purse in spring colors every year!

I think this is something that every woman can get behind.

Here are my picks for springing into the season this year:

In our shop, our Retro Handbags category offers several colors and styles (and patent leather!!!) that all fit the bill of this yearly holiday. I’d definitely have Danna Retro Patent Satchel as my number one pick — baby pink patent leather exterior, trimmed in white, white, white… and large enough for, I think, six white chocolate bunnies. Ahem.

The Easter Bunny Approves!

And with that proclamation for sunny skies (I know, spring showers… bah!) and temperatures so comfortable you don’t even need to THINK the word “layers” anymore, there are white handbags. Fashion rules may be outdated, but given that nobody old fashioned will question your fashion choices, makes the carrying of white accessories all the more fun, playful and chic.

The Danna Retro Patent Satchel (shown above) comes in white, but I’ve also got my eye on the Kath Rock Star and Hollie Woven hobos.

Rock out this Spring!

Woven like your favorite Easter Basket!

So, which handbags do you like for Spring? Will you go all out with white or pretty up your dress collection with pastels?

Spring/Summer Handbag Trends — in VIDEO!

Mar 17, 2011 by mel

Check out this video from the Fashion Image Institute for some creative inspiration for your spring and summer handbag choices:

I see LOTS of bags with flaps and messenger bags. And cannot WAIT for summer woven handbag season.

Also: this CHIC.tv video gives FIVE trends for dressing chic-ly and comfortably for 2011 (ignore the sleigh bells and New Year’s reference, there is some great advice in this short video):