Judith Leiber Python Clutch

OMG! You all are not going to believe this one. Judith Leiber has created a bag that won't test your gag reflex. I'm serious...It's not a $5,000 jewel encrusted hamburger. It's a beautiful shimmering python clutch with a tortoise clasp. Who knew Judith had it in her? The dark indigo python skin is breathtaking. It has a mystical quality, like when the sun's rays reflect off of the ocean. From a designer, whose pieces usually make me chuckle...or hurl, I am just in utter shock. Purchase this clutch from www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $1695. For those of you who need a good laugh today, here's another clutch from Judith Leiber's fall collection that retails for $3995. Click the title of this post to see bedazzled bling done right!

Christian Louboutin Jeweled Platform Slingback

Calling all drag queens, trannies and show girls. Christian Louboutin has created a shoe just for you! If you're the type of girl for whom too much is never enough, then you will love the jeweled slingbacks in Christian Louboutin's fall lineup. Not only is this shoe a metallic navy blue, but it is encrusted in multi-colored jewels. I have to admit that I love the audacity of these shoes. There's just something so "Kimora" about spending $2830 on a pair of heels that you can only wear once in a blue moon. Click on the title of this post if you want to see the fugliest, tackiest bag that I have EVER seen!

The Proposal vs. Confessions of a Shopaholic

Okay, so I just got back from the movies and let me tell you...The Proposal was the best movie I have seen this year. Maybe, I'm a little biased because Betty White was in it and everyone who knows me can tell you that I LOVE the Golden Girls. I have all of the seasons on DVD and I watch them at least once a week. Anyway, I'm getting sidetracked. Everyone in the movie was phenomenal. Sandra Bullock, who is aging so gracefully without getting any work done, was perfection. The wardrobe was lacking, but honestly I didn't expect much. It's not like it was styled by Patricia Field. But I did spot an Hermes orange 40cm Birkin as well as countless pairs of Loubou's and Louis Vuitton luggage. Ryan Reynolds is HOT and he's a great actor. Oscar Nunez was the breakout star for me. I've never heard of him and he had me laughing throughout the entire film. Trust me...GO SEE THE PROPOSAL!

Speaking of Pat Field, I also saw Confessions of a Shopaholic this weekend and it was awful. The acting was horrible. The plot sucked. And the styling was sub par to say the least. The only envy inducing bag was the red Ferragamo python satchel available at www.saks.com in black for $2450. Click the title of this post if you have ever had the urge to watch TV at work!

Alexander McQueen Faithful Glove Clutch

I have literally had this clutch saved to my computer for two weeks and I still haven't developed an opinion about it. I just can't decide if I like it or not. I love Alexander McQueen and I am the epitome of rocker chic, but something about the glove being attached to the clutch, I just don't find appealing. At first, I thought it was cool. Then I hated it. Then I told myself that if the glove is removable, I like it. Well the glove is removable, but it leaves behind two huge snap closures. In other words the glove has to stay attached to the clutch. So what's my final verdict. The leather used for this clutch is beautiful and it's nice to see something new and fresh in the wonderful world of handbags, but I'll have to pass. The glove just isn't practical. Who wants to have to snap and unsnap it every time you need to use your hands? If you really like this look, just purchase a motorcycle glove and wear it with a Balenciaga Arena Giant Covered Envelope clutch. Purchase this fabulous, yet impractical clutch from zappos.com for $899.

Okay now that I finally made a decision about the bag, I have a bone to pick with Zappos. Who the heck wrote this garbage? "Initiate yourself into the daring doctrine of divine debauchery and royal rites of rejuvenescence resonating and revealed in this remarkable Faithful Glove Clutch by Alexander McQueen!" Huh?!? Click on the title of this post for the pefect shoes to wear with this bag!

Michael Jackson has Passed Away!

I am deeply saddened by this tragedy. I mean, not only was he one of the most talented artist's of our generation but he was a fashion icon. Here he is in fall 07 Givenchy...

...and fall 09 Balmain.

Michael Jackson was also a huge fan of supermodels. Here he is with Nina's favorite model, Iman, in Remember the Time...

...and with my favorite model, Naomi Campbell, in the video for In The Closet.

I thought long and hard and after careful consideration my favorite Michael Jackson songs are Scream (yall know I'm crazy) and You are Not Alone. I tried to pick one, but I just couldn't. What are your favorite Michael Jackson songs? Check out Michael Jackson's www.youtube.com page, featuring 36 of his videos. Click on the title of this post to see some fur jackets fit for the King of Pop!

Jimmy Choo Shoes for H&M

So I'm in France right now and just had to share some exciting news. I have a lot in store for you when I return but for now, this news seems adequate for your fashion fix. Anyway, word is that H&M has tagged Jimmy Choo for their next limited edition designer collection. The British accessories brand will offer both men and women's shoes and bags.

Looks like many designers are hopping on the bandwagon to create quality affordable items. ¨This collaboration is particularly exciting because it’s our first shoe designer collection¨ stated H&M creative advisor Margareta van den Bosch. ¨It’s a joy to be able to offer top end designer shoes and bags of excellent quality to our customers" (www.hm.com). Other designers that have previously made collections for H&M include Roberto Cavalli, Matthew Williamson, Stella McCartney, and Victor and Rolf. Tamara Mellon, founder and president of Jimmy Choo stated, "We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too. Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!" (www.hm.com)

I am very excited to see what Jimmy Choo has in store for H&M. This line is scheduled to make its debut in about 200 H&M stores around the world on November 14, 2009. Click on the title of this post to check out some hawt jewelry!

Doris Panos: The Ultimate Statement Rings

Obviously, today is all about statement rings and although I liked Nina's quite a a bit, I prefer mine because they're more opulent and unique. That's what's so great about us teaming up to do a fashion blog. We have very different tastes. I like my jewelry to have a gothic, rocker chick edge and Nina likes feminine more affordable pieces that she can just have fun with. I'm going to preface this post by saying that I know these rings are expensive, but they really are the only jewelry you will need to buy all year. Now that that's out of the way, let me just tell you that I have witnessed the fabulosity that is Doris Panos jewelry in person and every piece is stunning. These Byzantine rings, available at www.neimanmarcus.com, are perfect for special occasions. Throw one of them on with a little black dress and you will be the envy of everyone at the party. All of these rings are set in 24 karat gold, which I love because it's a deep, rich yellow and provides the perfect backdrop for the gorgeous gems and flawless diamonds. My favorite piece in the collection is the Bella Milky Aqua ring because I'm partial to 18 karat white gold and the thorn motif encrusted in .90 carats of pave diamonds give it some bling. These rings range in price from $6,580 to $11,860. Don't say I didn't warn you. Click on the title of this post to check out some awesome and more affordable statement rings!

P.S. I neglected to give you a little background information about Doris Panos. "As a businesswoman, artisan, mother, and daughter, Doris Panos understands that modern American women experience the joy and strain of playing many different roles. And so, she creates designs that are as versatile as they are bold. Having spent years working both in manufacturing and in the diamond/colored stone market, Panos ensures the quality of her jewelry on all levels." (www.neimanmarcus.com)

Fade to Black (and Green) Clutches

I have been obsessed with this color combination ever since Angelina Jolie fulfilled all of my dreams at the Oscars in that black Elie Saab gown and Lorraine Swartz emerald earrings. If you’re digging this trend as much as I am, I found two fantastic clutch options for you. First up is the Paige Gamble onyx alligator and malachite clutch, which retails for $1900 at www.paigegamble.com. You already know how I feel about Paige Gamble…high-quality, treated crocodile skin and beautiful colored stones. What more can a girl ask for? If you’re looking for a less expensive option, check out the R&Y Augousti Park II black stingray clutch with a green stone detail. Purchase this clutch from www.marissacollections.com for $425. Click on the title of this post for more Paige Gamble fabulousity!

The Model as Muse Exhibit

Guess where I went on Saturday? I finally made it up to New York to see the Model as Muse exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute. It was fabulous to say the least. The exhibition spanned the last 50 years and featured all of my favorite iconic models, from Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista to Iman. It was remarkable to see the evolution of beauty and how it has transformed over time as well as the impact that a fresh-faced model, like Twiggy, can have on the fashion industry. “The exhibition organized by historical period from 1947 to 1997, features haute couture and ready-to-wear masterworks accompanied by fashion photography and video footage of models whom epitomized their epochs.” For those of you who won’t be in New York before August 9th, the Met has put together a video of the exhibit.

Hermes Shadow Birkin

I felt bad about how I left things with Hermes in that Ralph Lauren Ricky post and I just wanted to give a formal apology. I don’t hate you Hermes, I just don’t get the obsession (or the prices). Okay, now that I got that out of the way, I can tell you about this major hotness that I spotted while perusing the Hermes Fall 09 show online. The new Birkin Shadow bag is so young and fresh. As opposed to being functional, the hardware and straps as well as the hanging tag, are embossed. “My idea was to work around the trompe l’oeil concept with the Birkin bag. It’s like a real sculpture,” explains Jean Paul Gaultier in July’s Harper’s Bazaar. “The flap, straps, and clochette seem to have been chiseled in the raw material, the result of unbelievable craftsmanship. “ It definitely updates the Birkin and makes it feel less stuffy and pretentious. It will be sold at Hermes stores this fall for $10,300. See the rest of the Hermes Fall 09 show at www.style.com. Click the title of this post to see my favorite bag for fall!

Crocodile Ralph Lauren Ricky!

I don't know about everyone else, but I am bored to death with Hermes bags. They all look the same and people keep ranting and raving about them as if Hermes has come up with anything new in the last 50 years. Obviously, I am alone here because, "Hermes CEO Patrick Thomas says the label is experiencing massive over-demand for handbags. To keep up, they've started breeding their own crocodiles on farms in Australia. Thomas said it's difficult for the label to make 3,000 crocodile bags a year. It can take three to four crocodiles to make one handbag. Customers sometimes wait several years for bags made from exotic skins, which can cost upwards of $48,410 apiece." (www.nymag.com) I just don't get it. A few Hermes bags is one thing, but the collectors like Victoria Beckham baffle me. I thought buying the same thing in different colors is a fashion don't? And Hermes bags are ridiculously overpriced. They're not made out of gold. Okay, rant over! An alternative to the Birkin that is much less expensive and equally as timeless is the Ralph Lauren Ricky. I can't get enough of the crocodile version. I love the red and the purple AND the brown. They're all available at www.ralphlauren.com for $16,995. Click on the title of this post to see Lindsay Lohan's python Chloe Paraty!

Order in the Court: Office Bags!

My cousin is an attorney and keeps going on and on about everyone at her office wearing Bottega Veneta bags. She's been looking for something different to wear to work for quite some time now and I think I found two options. One is the Salvatore Ferragamo Convertible Satchel which can be both a top handle and a shoulder bag with the removable strap. It retails for $1890 at www.saks.com. Fendi (yes I said Fendi) has a surprisingly understated tote available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $2420. This Peekaboo tote is made of sumptuous black leather with a bright raspberry lining. It also has a removable shoulder strap, which is essential for any corporate woman. I just can't believe this bag is Fendi. I keep waiting for sequins or F's to pop out. Click on the title of this post to see the perfect office bags for men!

Alexis Mabille Bow Ties

Don't call it a comeback. The bow tie has been here for years. But we have Parisian designer, Alexis Mabille, to thank for its recent return to the forefront of fashion. A lot of women cast off the bow tie as a "males-only" accessory and don't realize that simply pairing it with a flirty blouse is quite feminine and chic. Mabille is hands-down the best bow tie designer in the world. He loves them. They are a staple in his collections every season and he utilizes them in every way conceivable...as handbags, hair accessories, necklaces, brooches and of course as neckties. I love the financier bow tie, which retails for $245. It's oversized and appears to have wings, most likely due to the fact that Mabille is often inspired by butterflies. But the Marlene Dietrich bow tie ($176), in which he entwined satin ribbon to create the classic bow, best exemplifies Mabille's creativity and craftsmanship. For the best selection of Alexis Mabille bow ties, check out www.couturelab.com. Click on the title of this post if you need the perfect briefcase to go with your new bow ties!

Zagliani Travel Bag!

My friends and I are always on the prowl for the perfect travel bags. Our priorities are durability, size and uniqueness. Don't you hate going on weekend getaways and showing up with the same bag as everyone else. I'll never forget the episode of the Hills, when everyone packed their Louis Vuitton keepalls for a trip to Las Vegas. Although there is certainly no shame in toting around a LV travel bag or Balenciaga Weekender, they certainly won't evoke bag envy because everyone has one...even people who don't care about fashion...like everyone on the Hills. I fell in love with the crocodile version of this Zagliani bag, when I spotted it on www.saks.com last year, but it was too rich for my blood at $11K. Plus I usually wear exotic skinned handbags and I don't believe in wearing two dead animals at the same time, with the exception of fur. Now it's available at www.matchesfashion.com in woven black or grey leather...so luxurious...for $1,828.96. For long trips, pair this bag with a globetrotter and you're set. Click on the title of this post to check out Rihanna's Alexander Wang Travel bag!

P.S. This would be a great father's day gift for the stylish dad on the go!

What the Fug: Prada Pitone Tote

We have yet another casualty in the ongoing war between Prada and Valentino to see which fashion house can produce the most hideous bags each year. I give you the Prada Pitone Tote. This is one of the worst patchwork bags I have ever seen. It appears as if they took a piece of skin from every reptile ever in existence and sewed them together in order to create this masterpiece. This is truly one of those bags that just makes you think, "What the Fug?" To add insult to injury this atrocity is $5500 at www.neimanmarcus.com. Check out the rest of the Prada fall 09 collection at www.neimanmarcus.com, which is not that bad, but it's far from awe inspiring. Click on the title of this post to clean your palette with some fierce Gucci bags!

P.S. Ramona from the Real Housewives of New York must be the handbags buyer at Neiman Marcus, because you would have to be on crack to support this mess. Can you believe Bethenny told her to lay off the crack pipe at the reunion?...I was ROFL! I don't know about you, but I can't wait for the Orange County Lost Footage, which comes on tonight at 9/8c!

Louis Vuitton: To Monogram or Not to Monogram?

The Fall 09 Men's shows were a complete bore. But Louis Vuitton did have some bags that peaked my interest. Normally I wouldn't go for a monogrammed bag, as they're a bit ostentatious in my opinion. But I love these. They're more understated than the tacky Steven Sprouse collection. The boxy shape of the old school steamer bag is updated with the jumbo engraved monogram. I really like the keepall as well. I wonder how much these bags will cost and when they'll be available. So what do you think...Is it ever okay to monogram?

P.S. Check out that scrumptious crocodile jacket. How long do you think it will take before Andre Leon Talley gets his hands on it? See the rest of the Louis Vuitton Fall 09 show at www.nymag.com! Click on the title of this post to check out the hawtest men's dress shoes you have ever seen!

Rising Star: Paige Gamble Exotic Clutches!

I am so in love with Paige Gamble right now! I really respect people who see what they want and go after it. Gamble always had a penchent for clutches and when she couldn't get her hands on a turquoise beaded YSL minaudière that was sold out everywhere, she decided to make her own. The rest, as they say, is history. Now with her own atelier in Manhattan, Gamble can't keep her slender alligator clutches on the shelves. My personal faves are the glazed forest green alligator clutch with peacock feather detailing ($2200) and the black alligator clutch with a purple agate slice ($3600). Both are available at www.paigegamble.com. After being featured on the flawlessly styled tv series Gossip Girl and in this month's Elle Magazine she has solidified her place as the latest "it" bag designer.

P.S. Paige Gamble even takes the care to treat her alligator clutches to withstand disasters such as hot coffee spills and sloshed champagne, so her bags really are a great investment! Click on the title of this post to check out the latest Zagliani exotic bags!