Friday, April 27, 2012

3.1 Phillip Lim Berry Stud Wristlet

Don’t miss out on the sale that everyone is talking about! Over at Net-a-Porter they added a few more items -clothing, bags, shoes and more- to the sale section, plus they reduced prices on all sale items by an extra 20% off. Some of the items are marked 60% off retail. The madness.This is your last chance to score some deals before they sell out (going fast!) or move inventory over to NAP’s sister discount site TheOutnet.Did you find anything at the sale?Visit net-a-porter’s sale section.

3.1 Phillip Lim has come up with some interesting looking bags lately.  My favorite being, of course, the Edie Bow Bag (okay, not a brand new  style, but still pretty darn cool!). But here’s something that I don’t  normally think of when I think of this line — a wristlet! Introducing  the 3.1 Phillip Lim Studded Berry Wristlet! It’s a tiny package that  packs quite a punch!Oddly, if it wasn’t for the all-over studs having a distinctive cone  shape, I would have sworn that this wristlet was one of Alexander Wang’s  creations. After all, he really likes to crowd the surface of a bag  with lots and lots of chunky studs! But you know what, I think Lim does  the whole stud thing pretty well. They are the same kind of studs found  on my beloved Edie Bow Bag, but they are arranged in a tight grid  pattern.All of this on a slightly metallic, silver suede background!  Pretty! And if you’re not in the mood for a funky wristlet, you can  remove the strap and use this baby as a compact wallet. Duel zip-around  compartments conceal credit card slots, bill compartments, and a coin  pocket. Everything you would find in a regular wallet (minus, perhaps, a  checkbook cover) can be found right here! Perfect for a minimalist’s  night out or a fun surprise inside your everyday handbag!Find the 3.1 Phillip Lim Studded Berry Wristlet at SSense!#gallery-2 {margin: auto;}#gallery-2 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 33%;}#gallery-2 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-2 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

Stella & Jamie Sue Fringe Bag

It’s time for a bit of fun — fun with fringe that is! And nothing would fit the bill better than a fringed handbag! No matter what style, they are one of the most playful accessories you can own! My favorites, of course, being those with mountains and mountains of fringe (e.g. JJ Winters). But if the thought of an all-over fringe bag sounds a bit suffocating to you, then there are definitely some great alternatives out there. I recently stumbled across a gorgeous bag with all the benefits of fringe, but it won’t weigh you down quite so much. Check out the Sue Fringe Bag from Stella and jamie!This lovely leather bag features a classic hobo shape. It is slouchy and casual, yet simple and chic. The modest design is liven up though, thanks to a simple sweep of fringe running along the lower edge of the bag on each side. Plus the peek-a-boo pyramid studs on the ends add just the right amount of flair.I love the length of this bag too, which makes it really stand out. The bag itself hits just below the hip, but the fringe reaches clear down past the knees! This beautiful piece definitely makes a statement! It would look great paired with some tall boots and same-shade scarf (à la Kourtney Kardashian)!Discover the Stella & Jamie Sue Fringe Bag at Singer22! It is available in Camel right now, but Black is available for pre-order.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Olivia Wilde Style: Judith Leiber ‘Starburst’

Turquoise is one of those colors that I will never get sick of! Especially when it comes to accessories. I absolutely love the bright eye-catching shade and now that it’s spring, almost summer something tells me were going to be seeing a lot more of this color.Ashley Greene recently photographed at Vancouver International airport dressed in Juicy Couture and carrying the MIU MIU turquoise matelassé leather bag from the Spring Summer 2011 collection.Now locating the turquoise Matelasse.. I couldn’t find this color anywhere online yet, however net-a-porter has a pretty big collection of other colors. Discover the Miu Miu Boutique at Net-a-Porter!

House fans, how happy were you to see the return of Thirteen played by Olivia Wilde? I for one was pretty excited about that!Recently Olivia popped up at the Tribeca Film Festival, looking stunning with the Judith Leiber “Starburst” in Silver with Black Stone in hand.I searched around and could not find this bag available online. A good spot to check back is the Judith Leiber Boutique at Net-a-Porter

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

CC Skye 1945 Bullet Bag

Who doesn’t like vintage handbags? Digging around in grandma’s closet can lead to all sorts of wonderful treasures! So glamorous and sophisticated, there is just something about vintage handbags that make you feel like one chic little fashonista! This feeling is also really hard to match, there really is no comparison. Well… until now! Meet The 1945 Bullet Bag from CC Skye! This bag may not be vintage, but its vintage-inspired style will definitely give you that vintage glam feeling!What I love most about this bag is its classic trapezoid shape and double frame closure. See that large lock perched on top? Each side of the lock opens one side of the divided interior. I guess that makes this bag classy AND organized! I also love the glazed, snake-embossed leather. It prevents this style from looking to “Plain Jane”. Plus the optional shoulder strap offers some extra versatility! It definitely looks the most glam when held in hand, but it is always nice to have that shoulder strap available just in case you find your hands full! Pair this classic beauty with a dressy blouse and black cigarette pants or pencil skirt. Feeling a bit more casual? Try pairing it with a pair of this season’s floaty shorts!The CC Skye The 1945 Bullet Bag can be found at ShopBop, where it is available in Black Python!

Monday, April 23, 2012

Fendi Forever Hobo

The joy of warm weather brings the prettiest handbags to the sales racks. Prints, floral and vibrant colors are always attractive in every brand, but when you have a high-end designer piece sporting a striking shade of color, it is practical to want to adapt it as your one and only summer splurge. Fendi has one of the most attractive pieces I have seen this season, greet the ‘Forever’ Metallic Calfskin Hobo by the Italian House.This style carries a large body that is slouchy-squared, in a gorgeous shade of metallic magenta leather. The next feature after the color that caught my attention was the adjustable lengthy flat straps that allow this piece to be worn on the lower division of the body. Think cute messenger style or long bohemian chic look. Fendi made sure to emphasize on these straps by inserting the attractive detailing of embellished chain links. Lately, the oversized metal logo has been a popular hit, and its definitely not lacking here. The appealing double F’s feature a magnetic closure and enameled filling that resembles a true gem. Fendi did a lively job with this glam bag, as any true fan would definitely approve of this as uplifting. You can find this pretty through the online shops of: Fendi Boutique at Nordstrom!

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Il Bisonte Handbags

Wanny Di Filippo, an eclectic Italian designer, has a passion for bison. It is so intense that he owns over 1000 of them as expressed through sculpture, drawings, engravings and other objects. His love is so deep that he named his line of handbags and accessories Il Bisonte. With stores worldwide, I only recently discovered his line via the luxury website, Luisa Via Roma.With so much interested in structured bags, studded, fringed, over-sized and a plethora of other treatments, it was refreshing to see a line that is uncluttered, pure, chic and supple as many of his bags are done. Oh, there’s an ode to the wild west and his passion for bison, but mostly, you will see clean design, and essential materials of luxurious cowhide, cotton canvas and more.The natural cowhides are vegetable tanned and develop a patina over time unique to each user and it’s uses. Think Louis Vuitton vachetta handles that become more rich over time. If you are on of the few who dislike aged, uneven, well-loved leather like this, then read no more. For the rest of you who appreciate the beauty of this material, then you’ll be very excited by this line.While somewhat evocative of the Old West, pictures of Wild Bill Hickock and Annie Oakley popped into my head when I first saw the collection. Taken on their own, there are plenty of simple, chic styles that go way beyond the Wild Wild West. I dearly love the mini cross-body for running errands and the Shoulder Bag is a true workhorse (pardon the pun) for those who need to lug around a laptop or ipad, extra pair of shoes and much more.While you can order or shop (in store) for bags of various colors and sizes, most of the offerings on Luisa Via Roma are simple tanned cowhide. With easy-on-the-budget pricing, selection ranges from a mini limited edition Simple Bag cross body for $164 (also in white LOVE it!!) to a large Vachetta Shoulder Bag for $795. A limited edition calfskin ponyhair bag with fringing for $301 is made exclusively for Luisa Via Roma. My personal favorite is the simple Calfskin Shoulder Bag for $425 with it’s softly rounded shape.See these and other selections at LUISAVIAROMA or pop into an store in your area!#gallery-2 {margin: auto;}#gallery-2 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 33%;}#gallery-2 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-2 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

Friday, April 20, 2012

Reese Witherspoon Style: Chloe Marcie Hobo

I am normally a fan of Reese Witherspoon’s style. Her everyday look is casual and care-free, sometimes with a little bit of boho mixed in. When I saw this photo, however, I was taken aback just a little bit. I suppose the blue and white woven top isn’t so bad by itself. It is those white jeans that are throwing me off. The outfit looks too matchy-matchy, as if the pieces came together as a set. But I suppose I can forgive her. After all, her taste in handbags appears to be completely unaffected. Check out that gorgeous bag on her arm! It is the Chloe Marcie Hobo!I have probably said this before, but I will say it again. You can never go wrong with a great hobo! And this is one great hobo! I love the structured crescent shape, it really makes this piece stand out. The horseshoe-shaped flap front adds a nice touch, hiding an exterior pocket in the process. I also love the wrapped handle, which can be worn over the shoulder or carried in hand. An investment piece for sure, but it is something that can go just about everywhere! It can even be worn with white jeans!Discover the Chloe Marcie Hobo at NET-A-PORTER where it is available in Black, Nut, or Teal!

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Michael Kors Ostrich Embossed Gia

As the Fall season draws nearer, I’m finding myself becoming more and more depressed. I can’t help it, I’m just not a Fall/Winter girl. What I need is a little pick-me-up. And I know exactly what will do the trick! Rather than switching to an all Fall color palette, I propose adding a pop of the unexpected. My eye is on hot pink at the moment. It is so not a Fall color, but I think it looks great paired with all the browns, oranges, and burgundies of the season. That’s why I am loving the Michael Kors Ostrich Embossed Gia in Neon Pink!This really is a beautiful bag! The highly structured shape is contrasted by the super bright color and rich ostrich texture. It’s sophisticated enough for everyday, yet it’s anything but boring! Plus you get some organization, thanks to a zippered divider inside the main compartment. Perfect for the gal who likes to keep her stuff neat and tidy. Pink is such a versatile color, so don’t be afraid to carry this lovely piece all the way through Fall. Trust me, it will definitely put a spring in your step! Or, if nothing else, it will add an unexpected splash to your Fall wardrobe!Discover Michael Kors at Saks Fifth Avenue!Not feeling the hot pink ostrich, check out the ultimate classic black or cinnamon brown versions available at ShopBop (retail for $100 less too)

Michael Kors Grayson

The Louis Vuitton “Speedy” has always been one of my favorite handbags. It’s perfect, classic and goes with just about anything wardrobe wise. One problem with the “Speedy” is that they are pricey especially if they come out in limited edition collections.Other designers have taken the design of the “Speedy” and put their own little touch or flare to it. One of those designers is Michael Kors. The MICHAEL Michael Kors “Grayson” is fabulous all on its own and is a fraction of the price of a Louis Vuitton “Speedy”.I actually saw the “Grayson” in person yesterday, and it was gorgeous! I loved that the handles weren’t stiff and that they could be adjusted to the length you wanted them to be. The bag was definitely spacious and I would consider it comparable to the “Speedy” 30 by Louis Vuitton. I also liked the bag much better in brown than in vanilla.What I like about the “Grayson” is that it’s just as classic as the “Speedy” and much more affordable. It’s the type of handbag you can use everyday out of the year and will never go out of style. Overall, it’s a beautiful bag and you definitely can’t beat the price!You can purchase the MICHAEL Michael Kors “Grayson” at Zappos for $298.

Monday, April 16, 2012

See by Chloe Joyrider Bag

Unfortunately, there are no enforced regulations on the amount of puff you can add to a handbag. Some fur pieces are absolutely striking and attractive, and then you have the ones that seem to be made out of the excess pelts from the good-looking ones. I always envisioned the brand of See by Chloe as the rebellious little sister of the French couture name of Chloe.So when See by Chloe presents fur for the winter collection, it’s done to the extremities that shock and distress. Why not just carry a fur muff for a much classier look? One thing for sure is that the Joyrider Shoulder Bag can hold your essentials as well as keep your hands warm throughout the evening. Before any anti-fur advocates respond, this piece is in fact made out of faux fur.Within the layers of fuzz you’ll find a zipper compartment that houses a depth of eleven inches, double-fluffed long handles, and extra patch pockets for gadgets inside. As if there wasn’t enough fluff going on in this piece, if you look close enough, you’ll spot a stuffed cotton sheep charm dangling off this unusual piece.There won’t be many of these pieces floating around at your local shopping destinations. For $295, you can add this uncommon winter wear to your collection via: Shopbop

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Michael Kors Day Bag

Michael Kors is pretty much my favorite designer. I love almost everything he comes out with and he is the king of the black leather and gold hardware combination, which we all know is my favorite.When I was wandering around the mall today, I came across this Michael Kors Tote and I instantly fell in love with it. It reminded me of the Louis Vuitton Neverfull bags, just priced a lot more affordably and came in a variety of colors.Of course, I wanted to slap out my credit card and buy the tote in black but every color looked gorgeous in this bag. It has that classy, sophisticated look and would stunning with a variety of outfits.What I also loved about this tote, was how big it was in person! I could literally use this bag everyday but it would be a great travel bag too! Airplane restrictions are so annoying these days and I could easily carry all my essentials, food, jacket and lap top in this tote. It’s that big! It really is a wonderful bag to have in your collection for those days you just have to carry everything in your room and more. For the price, the size is amazing!This tote is currently on my wish list and boy would I love it for Christmas! I highly recommend this bag to anyone that’s looking for a beautiful, classy and timeless bag to add to their collection. If you don’t believe me, check it out at the store for yourself. You will fall in love with it. Mark my word!You can purchase the Michael Kors Tote at Nordstrom for $278! What a steal! I need this bag!Shop the Michael Kors Boutique at Nordstrom!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

CC Skye Leight Luxe Fringe Bag

CC Skye has always been on my hot list! This designer is always one step ahead of the latest trends, bringing us fresh new looks season after season. Her handbags are “edgy but elegant”, perfect for anyone looking for an upbeat style to lighten their mood. Not all CC Skye handbags feature fringe, but many have in the past. It has almost become a trademark. Plus I am a bit partial to fringe! So it really is no wonder I was drawn to the CC Skye Leight Luxe Fringe Bag!Somehow I knew this was a CC Skye handbag before I even saw the title/description. I just love all that fringe protruding from underneath the flap on the front! And how cool are those bead accents? The effect sort of reminds me of rain drops falling. It’s very calming and soothing in a weird sort of way. The fringe pairs nicely with the overall style of this bag, which is slouchy and messenger-like in appearance. The shoulder strap is also pretty cool. I was studying it pretty closely. In the picture, it is a long crossbody length. However, it looks like the buckles may be functional meaning an entire side could potentially be removed. This would theoretically create a nice shoulder bag as well. I would love to see this bag in person to get the full scope of its functionality!Discover the CC Skye Leight Luxe Fringe Bag!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Rebecca Minkoff Desire Satchel Bag

Man, I feel like every week I’m bringing you another piece from Rebecca Minkoff! This has practically turned into “Marissa’s weekly Rebecca Minkoff pick”. Each week I write about another fabulous piece Mrs. Minkoff has designed and this week is no different. Today I bring you, the “Desire” Satchel with Woven Trim. It’s classy, gorgeous and sophisticated. I love the Balenciaga “City” bags but I’ve never been able to purchase one. The “Desire” kind of reminds me of the “City” bag, but with more of fabulous vibe to it. Plus, the price makes me like it a whole lot better!From the style, to the structure all the way to the colors, I really love everything about the “Desire”. The flap zip front even reminds me of one of my favorite bags of all time, the “Morning After” which is also by the amazing Rebecca Minkoff. I really dig the two-tone color scheme of it because it gives anyone the option to wear it with multiple outfits. The black gives someone the ability to match it with a number of black outfits and the almond matches well with denim. I can even envision someone carrying it to their office while wearing one of their most stunning suits!I’m always a fan of handbags with versatility and the “Desire” gets an A+ from me!You can purchase the Rebecca Minkoff “Desire” Satchel with Woven Trim at Shop Bop for $495.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Alexander McQueen Woven Skull Clutch

The Alexander McQueen Skull Clutch will forever be an iconic piece. It has been reinvented again and again. There are so many variations out there! So it really is no wonder we write about this clutch all the time. Well I spotted another one that really caught my eye and I just had to share it with all of you. Introducing the Alexander McQueen Woven Skull Clutch!This is a very interesting looking piece! It’s crazy how something so simple can also be so intricate at the same time. The exterior is cleanly wrapped in smooth black leather. Encasing this clutch is a net made of leather piping that has been woven together. The pattern starts with a circle that has been centered on the front/back of the clutch and it expands outward. The pattern reminds me of a spiderweb. Considering this is Alexander McQueen, a spiderweb would be fitting. As always, this Skull Clutch is topped with a skull clasp. This one happens to be gold tone with black crystals encrusting the eyes and mouth. This clutch also comes with an optional leather shoulder strap. It adds some versatility to this piece, which you don’t see too often with these clutches.Discover the Alexander McQueen at Net-A-Porter!

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Botkier Bags for Spring 2012

Whether or not I’ve experienced a mild or harsh winter, I am always, always, always (get the point?) so ready to see some vibrant, fresh and even soft colors for Spring. Just give me color!Botkier’s 2012 product line gives us everything we need to start and finish the season with fresh styles and colors in addition to tried and true black and brown. A more restrained use of hardware like zippers, tassels and and metal trims compliment beautifully shaped bags in so many styles, it will make your head spin. Colorblocking is used in ways that compliment the shape and style of the bags too. Clutches, hobos, satchels reign supreme. If you need a satchel, it’s going to be very hard to choose. I already have my eye on several favorites!The Leon small satchel in Garden green with a tiny pop of cobalt blue is a great choice for Spring & Summer. It’s lady like shape isn’t redundant with everything else on the market. A top handle and shoulder strap make it convenient. This bag may end up being your go to daytime bag. It’s lady like with a little bit of a pop! Also available in a hobo and satchel version with shades of persimmon, noir and tobacco.The Eden hobo in nude with dove gray handles is soft and understated. I can see myself carrying it everyday. I love a great hobo and it’s soft colorway put me in a peaceful frame of mind. On the other hand, the Medley version in Ocean blue with Plum handles is everything but calm. Bold and bright, this bag has an outgoing personality!The Phoenix satchel in nude cowhide is another beautiful bag that’s soft shade is easy on the eye. I love the soft structure of this satchel and would love to carry it daily….Do you get the theme here? For evening (or day!) though I’d have to grab the Phoenix clutch, but can’t decide between the noir with a pop of ocean blue or the lavendar lizard calfskin with a pop or red!The Valentina shoulder, hobo and satchel bags in mint, dove, blush and noir bags are divine! Soft structure. Beautiful rolled handles, shoulder straps with touches of gold hardware are the perfect touch of sophistication.The Misha is a more structured and modern line with mixed materials including cowhide, rubberized cowhide, snake lambskin and metals provide touch of colorblocking and clean geometrics that will complement any modern girl! Bold colors of ocean, cinnamon, and noir will definitely pop against your wardrobe.The Nicola tote, satchel and clutch in vibrant shades of cardinal, cognac and noir are bold colors that will take you year round. Lightly glazed cowhide with a tiny touch of silver metal offer a more polished personality.I’m dying for the Turner I-Pad case with it’s touch of red against a dove and cream goatskin with edgy zippers is fashion forward and says you’re at the leading edge of technology. The satchel and weekenders utilize color blocking and Botkier’s iconic zippers that is modern soft and sophisticated in the dove, mint and desert. While the black is edgy and sharp!STELLA!!! I am loving the modern styling of the Stella tote and clutch with zipper details as edging, just the right pops of color. The solid ocean blue tote is striking while the white bag with ocean blue or black with white details gives me a thrill. And for the girly girl in all of us, the pretty coral tote is just what we need to express it!I’d say Botkier has an amazing line up this Spring with so much you’ll want to go out and touch and see! Check out some of the new styles at these locations: Stefani Bags, Nordstrom and ShopBop

Friday, April 6, 2012

Chanel White Patent 2.55 Resort ’06-07

This Nuti clutch in ostrich is absolutely to die for!  Ostrich is big these days, it is taking over croc and we are so loving it!!  The skin is so much softer and the texture makes for that tonal interest you don’t get with other skins.  This clutch is sheer perfection from the signature ruthium ring, the fabulous shape, the sublime detail of every stitch to the baby soft suede lining that makes you want to crawl inside and take a nap.    We love clutches for day and this is THE greatest all day clutch out there.  Although great for formal occassions as well, it is big enough for daytime essentials like wallet, phone and cosmetics.  Sometimes, it is so liberating to be free of your 10 pound bag.  Measures 10″ w X 5 1/2 L x 2″ deep and comes with a detachable shoulder strap.  Available at LuxCouture for $1225.

Dear Bag Snob,I want a white bag for winter but have not seen anything FAB, have you?Thanks,MelanieChanel 2.55 in white patent leatherHi Melanie!I just bought the most fabulous white patent Chanel 2.55 bag with gunmetal hardware yesterday at Chanel in Highland Park. It’s from the resort collection and just arrived in boutiques this week.  It is the perfect shade of creamy white and will be my constant accessory in Vail this month.  Quantities are limited so call your Chanel boutique now!  There is also a pair of matching quilted cork platforms in white or black patent that is to die for.  I love the ’60s mod vibe of white patent leather, think Audrey Hepburn driving her little convertible in “Two for the Road” with her white glasses and matching white patent accessories, tres chic!Love,Bag Snob

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Marc’s Saving Grace

This is in no way an apology for the fashion atrocities Marc Jacobs has committed of late but if nothing else, we are honest and we are fashion addicts so when we see something we like, we allow ourselves to flip flop =)  But you have to see our point here, I mean, how cute is this mini Stam in blush metallic?  We always did like the Stam so a baby version in pink?  That’s an easy one for us.  This will be uber fantastically adorable with all the great dresses coming out for Spring and Summer.  We are seeing a lot of this pale metallic pink and it’s a sure trend for Spring (Chloe did it for Resort with the Paddington and if we didn’t already own 3 of them and if only they did it LAST year, it might be sitting in my closet right now).  The other bag we are loving from the Spring line is the Tanya.  The scrunchy straps and outer pockets is a tad bit Miu Miu but most definitely has the distinguishing style of Marc Jacobs.   Not to sound like I’m flipping yet again, but this bag is not something fashion mavens will go on about, it is just a delightful and charming bag that we are happy to see coming from Marc.  Marc Jacobs spring line will be available at Net-a-Porter in February.

To Chanel or not to Chanel

Chanel addicts be warned, the latest line from the House of Coco is irresistable and may cause you to max out your credit cards.  Chanel “New Lock” bag available in 3 sizes in black or whiteI was about to jump on the treadmill at my gym yesterday when a woman approached me and introduced herself as a fellow Bag Snob in need of advice.  As I jogged away the pizza, cookies, and ice cream I had the night before (life with a toddler, what can I say?) I listened to her tale and her cry for help.  Apparently she is addicted to bags and shoes (sound familiar?) and has purchased three Chanel bags (blue, brown, and purple) in the last month and could not decide whether or not to return the last purchase(the purple version is similar to the bag pictured above).  She also thought of selling the brown one to a friend but couldn’t bear to part with it.  Her friends have all advised her to take it back but my advice was to keep it if she really loves it and will use it often BUT don’t buy another bag for the next 6 months.  Or she should return the one that she will use the least.While it’s true that Chanel bags are classics and will be treasured for a lifetime, we really don’t feel it is necessary to buy a dozen each season.  One nice classic bag per season is sufficient for any collection (even ours!).  She also told me she can not resist the urge to buy buy buy when she sees new bags in magazines or online (especially if she finds out it’s hard to get or if it is a limited edition-it’s the hunt that is thrilling for her.  We’re all just animals aren’t we?).  Which made me think, are we encouraging shop-a-holics to buy without abandon?  Or are we making a positive contribution to the US economy?  As I ponder these questions, I ask you, “To Chanel or not to Chanel”?  Should she keep the bag?