Thursday, July 29, 2010

Paige Gamble Highlighter Stingray Clutches


Cyndi Lauper said it best. Girls just want to have fun! And I can't think of anything more cheerful than fluorescent clutches. The fab factor is kicked up a notch with the use of one of my favorite exotic skins, stingray. It's just the right amount of subtle texture, without taking any of the spotlight away from the vibrant colors. Purple and yellow are my favorites, but you can't go wrong with any of these bright beauties. Purchase directly from Paige Gamble for $1100. Believe it or not, this clutch is one of Gamble's understated designs. Check out the video clip below for a few of her more ornate pieces. Also, take note of the incredible pliability of this stingray clutch.   


Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Chloé Aurore Top Handle


When I spotted this minimalistic top handle in the August Issue of Harper's Bazaar, I immediately fell in love. The Chloé Aurore is the grown up Louis Vuitton Speedy. It's perfect for chic moms on the go and corporate women looking for a great weekend bag. The supple Italian leather will patina flawlessly over time and never go out of style. This bag is quite large so you should have no problem carrying your daily essentials. Can we talk for a moment about that beautiful warm auburn color variation? I don't think I've ever seen that color used in handbag design and it practically screams fall. For those of you that don't own a top handle, there are a few things you should know. Although they look incredibly stylish in the crook of your arm, the interior can be difficult to access without sitting the bag down. Also, if they aren't stuffed to capacity, they can look deflated or empty. Neither of these aspects bother me, but I thought you should know before making such a major purchasing decision. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for $1,995.


Monday, July 26, 2010

Valentino Histoire Satchel


Valentino is one of my favorite design houses and I'm particularly fond of the handbag collection for fall. While many of their designs can be over-the-top and outrageously priced, the glamour and luxury is unparalleled. The Histoire made its debut back in 2007 and was made famous by Angelina Jolie, who not only purchased one for herself, but also had a smaller version created for her daughter, Zahara. I personally, loved the styling of the Histoire tote and I'm delighted to see it reinterpreted as a ladylike satchel. I'm obsessed with the jet black variation! It looks so slick in the super shiny patent leather and the tightly braided detailing is incredibly chic. Preorder from Nordstrom for $1895.


Saturday, July 24, 2010

Weekly Fashion Roundup


Lara Stone was featured in the June/July Issue of French Playboy rocking a breathtaking Jenny Mercian jeweled corset. The pictures were taken a year ago by Greg Lotus, who really needs to ease off of the Photoshop. I mean...where are her armpits? Unfortunately, Stone just looks pudgy, pale, and unsexy! Nothing proves that point quite like seeing Selita Ebanks in the same outfit at the 2008 Victoria's Secret show.   


Naomi Campbell, Lady Gaga, and Kate Moss were all selected to be on the September cover of i-D Magazine! Unfortunately, the two diva supermodels were unwilling to shoot with a  fugly tranny global pop superstar, who would undoubtedly steal the spotlight. Therefore, each will receive their own separate cover, which is still pretty awesome if you ask me. Now, we can pit them against each other and decide which cover we like best. Who do you think will win?

    

Ladies, you're not going to believe this, but we may be in store for yet another price hike on Chanel bags! Remember that Reissue 2.55 that you fell in love with back in 2008? Well, you should have purchased it then, because by this August the price may jump to $4100. That's a $1250 increase in just two years! Hopefully, these are merely rumors. If not, I suggest boycotting stockpiling. 

 

Grace Jones, aka the original Lady Gaga, was spotted rocking the hottest trend for fall, fur, at a recent concert performance. Fur, this season, is long, garish, and over-the-top. Whether you love it or hate it, you must respect her for looking that fierce at 62!  

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Tiffany & Co. Debuts Handbag Collection


Guess what ladies!?! One of the most iconic jewelers in the world, Tiffany & Co., is creating a 44 piece handbag collection for fall 2010. This line is the outcome of a collaboration between design directors Richard Lambertson and John Truex, both of whom already have an established track record in accessories design, and the timeless luxury that we’ve come to cherish from Tiffany & Co. The result is a collection of classic, simplistic handbags, crafted from the highest quality materials in the world. The Manhattan Satchel, pictured above, is the perfect everyday bag, with its large capacity and sophisticated styling. I love the glazed crocodile variation, but it's also available in snakeskin and natural grain calf. It’s lined in Tiffany blue leather and the convenient turn-lock closure features Tiffany blue enamel. The Holly Clutch, pictured below, is my other obsession. I’m particularly fond of the Tiffany blue version, but check out that stunning violet hue. The crocodile Manhattan Satchel will retail for $17500, while the Holly Clutch is much more affordable at $3200. Purchase the collection exclusively at select Tiffany & Co. boutiques in September.



Saturday, July 17, 2010

Weekly Fashion Roundup!


Plus size model Crystal Renn was featured in Jean Paul Gaultier's Fall 2010 Ad Campaign looking noticeably thinner, which begs two questions. Is she battling with anorexia again and if it's retouching, what's the point of using a plus size model and making her appear thin? 

    

Jourdan Dunn is making a major comeback this season! She's featured in the September Issue of Vogue as well as the latest Victoria's Secret catalogue. Wonder if she'll get wings?


R&B singer, Ciara attended Lala Vasquez and Carmelo Anthony's wedding last week, decked out in head-to-toe Versace! While she looks amazing, I'm not convinced that this get-up is appropriate for a wedding. With the new season of The Rachel Zoe Project coming out next month, a lot of people are wondering what's been going on with Taylor. Well...she's styling celebrities, such as Kate Beckinsale, she hasn't spoken to Rachel or Brad in 8 months, and she's been offered a spinoff, but isn't interested as of yet.      

Friday, July 16, 2010

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bow Clutch


As most of you already know, I love Nancy Gonzalez, so you can imagine my excitement about the Heritage Collection debuting at Bergdorf Goodman last week. The compilation features iconic styles selected from the designer's archive, exclusively available at Bergdorf Goodman for a limited time only. While all of the pieces are absolutely breathtaking, I was most impressed by the elegant bow clutch. The simple clutch is adorned with a stunning oversized 11" bow, completely decked out in crocodile skin. It's timeless without being boring and glamorous without being over-the-top. That's what I love about Nancy Gonzalez bags! They make a statement, but they're not garish. Personally, I love the red version because it gives off a certain sex appeal. The silver is certainly a fabulous option, since grey is so huge for Fall. Let's ignore the unfortunate melon variation, shall we? Purchase at Bergdorf Goodman for $1950.


Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Halston Henry Clutch


When I'm going for a chic and funky look, I always depend on Halston for the right bag. Whether you are a fan or not, it's hard to deny that Halston bags are fabulous, eye-catching accessories. The convenient strap on the Henry Clutch is a unique feature that allows you to wear the bag as a wristlet. Although the bodice of the bag is rather simple, I like how the pleated side flaps flow diagonally into the designer-embossed hardware. The light-brown leather color is a neutral option that can easily compliment various outfits. If you prefer to make more of a statement, the electric blue python skin option will do the trick. It's a daring color that can upgrade any bland outfit. Purchase the python variation for $2498 and the leather adaptation for $748 at The Outnet. Believe it or not, they're half off!

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Trend Alert: Leopard Print Bags!


This year I embraced the animal print trend with a reversible track jacket. One side is a gorgeous leopard print and the other is completely enveloped in black sequins! I actually purchased it especially for the Diana Ross concert. It was just the right amount of luxe and comfort...I'm still a guy after all. A lot of women are afraid that animal print is overwhelming or it won't go with everything, but the truth is, like most trends, it comes in a variety of different styles.



Take, for instance, this breathtaking Judith Leiber clutch. It's perfect for women that want to make a serious statement at glamorous cocktail parties and fundraiser galas. The Swarovski crystals are hand-placed to create a beautiful leopard print mosaic. Be advised, however, that it retails for an astounding $5495 at Net-a-Porter. For something a bit more reasonable, try these classic flap bags from Christian Louboutin and Lanvin. The Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity bag features a timeless shape and size, so it's ideal for those of you that are less daring. Purchase directly from Christian Louboutin for $1995. The Lanvin Happy MM shoulder bag is a bit more fun, due to the ribbon and coin detailing on the chain link handles and it's available for $2500 at Barneys New York. Style Tip: Pair animal print bags with a LBD so they can take center stage!   




Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Chloé Ethel Satchel


I love absolutely everything that Hannah MacGibbon touches, so it's no surprise that I'm lusting after the Chloé Ethel Satchel. It's quite large and super slouchy, especially when worn with the detachable shoulder strap, so it's perfect for creating that Mary Kate and Ashley look that we all love! The sumptuous goat leather has the most beautiful sheen that will undoubtedly wear well over the years. I'm obsessed with the ginormous geometric hardware and there's something incredibly chic about the contrasting brown lambskin handles. My only complaint is the fact that the tiny logo plaque looks like such an afterthought. Why not simply emboss the leather? Purchase the Chloé Ethel Satchel in basic black or neutral nutmeg for $1,295. Shop Chloé bags at Net-a-Porter.com.   

 


Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Trend Alert: Lace Bags!


Ladies and gays, there's a new trend in town and, I'm not sure how I feel about it. While lace detailing is absolutely beautiful and undeniably feminine, I'm still not sold on its practicality. I'm obsessed with the Valentino Nuage Lace Hobo. The all over lace and bow detail enhances this classic nylon hobo and it's available for purchase at a very reasonable $1,195. My favorite version of the new Louis Vuitton Chubby is the lace version. There's something incredibly ladylike about pastel colors with a lace overlay and an alligator flap closure. I also love the new Alexander McQueen knuckle duster, which features nude and black lace and retails for $2295 at Net-a-Porter.   


However, I'm seriously concerned about the functionality. One little fray could potentially ruin the entire design and don't even get me started on liquids. I'd be scared to death to wear any of these bags to a party or even a dinner. Could you imagine red wine or champagne spilling on these beauties? And even a 30% chance of rain would send me into an epileptic shock.  So, what's your verdict? Would you wear any of these gorgeous lace bags?  


Monday, July 5, 2010

Fendi Classico No. 3 Shopper


Fendi is officially the go-to design house for timeless "it" bags that won't cost you an arm and a leg. Everyone is still obsessing over the Peekaboo that debuted last Fall and now we can all covet the, La Dolce Vita inspired, Classico shopper. The boxy shape is certainly adhering to the ladylike trend, that is so hot for Fall, but this shopper is far from boring. I personally have never seen such a uniquely textured leather. The deep brown hue juxtaposed against the glimmering gold-tone hardware is incredibly retro chic! Usually, I'm leery of shoppers because they're so mugger-friendly, but the Classico features an interior flap closure for added security. The sizeable interior and adjustable shoulder strap ensure that this bag can transition from the hectic work-week to even more chaotic weekends. Purchase the Classico No. 3 for $1,995. Shop Fendi bags at Net-a-Porter.com


Thursday, July 1, 2010

Miu Miu: The Bow Bag


After a lackluster Fall collection last year, Miu Miu made a major comeback this season with the sequined tote heard 'round the world and they're continuing the fabulosity with The Bow Bag! Sounds so epic doesn't it? But it really is a gorgeous bag. The Italian leather is absolutely stunning and incredibly sumptuous! Similar to the Dolce & Gabbana 'Miss Rose' Satchel, it has a zippered flap front closure. The belted details add stability to the bag, and the removable shoulder strap will certainly come in handy. It's quite sizeable, but not huge at 9"H x 14 1/8"W x 6"D. Both color options are neutrals that will flawlessly transition from season to season and never go out of style. Purchase at Bergdorf Goodman for $1430. I know what you're thinking. Why is it called The Bow Bag? Well, if you look very closely there are leather bows on both sides of the bag...très chic!