Weekly Fashion Roundup

Former face of Balenciaga, Jennifer Connelly, attended the Fashion Group International's Night of Stars gala in New York on Thursday night rocking what some may consider a "punk look" in Balenciaga's spring 2011 collection. So what do you think: bold statement or bad choice?

Usually at 16, the happiest point in your life is getting your drivers license, right? Well not for Lindsey Wixson! According to Vogue.com, this teenage model has been recently cast in the Spring 2011 Marc Jacobs and Mulberry Campaigns. Not to mention, Wixson will be receiving a brand-new Chrysler Sebring convertible for her birthday and a Jason Wu prom dress. Not too shabby for sixteen!

While many predicted that Mondo would be the winner of Project Runway, we were all in complete shock to find that most predictions had been WRONG. After one of the most controversial and obviously the lengthiest judging deliberation in the history of the show, the judges picked Gretchen Jones as the winner. Did the right contestant win? (And what was up with those wretched hot pants she was wearing?!)

Estee Lauder finally decided to get a little bit of Asian persuasion. Last April, it was announced that model Liu Wen would be the brand's first Asian face. This is Wen's first campaign for Estee Lauder and the print ads are nothing less than amazing. The ads are set for debut in both magazine and department stores in Spring 2011.

Happy Halloween!

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Kate Hudson

This week's celebrity bag envy was worn by Kate Hudson as she was arriving at LAX last Wednesday. I've never been a fan of her personal style, but she's a talented actress and she always seems so genuine and likable in interviews. When one of my readers sent me this picture inquiring about Kate's handbag, I instantly recognized the Roberto Cavalli logo, but I never saw this particular style before. After a bit of research, I discovered why. The Diva bag is brand new for fall and not available for purchase until November. It will come in a variety of sizes and materials, including python and pony-hair. Personally, I'm obsessed with the navy leather variation. Check out the leopard print lining. Update: Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for $2,050. 

     

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Will You Marry Me?

From Marchesa to Badgley Mischka, quite a few designers have decided to enter the glamorous world of bridal wear, and for good reason. Let's face it. Even in a recession, women are still going to splurge on one of the most important days of their lives. When it comes to gowns, I always recommend keeping it classic and timeless. You don't want to look back at your pictures and wonder what the heck you were thinking. Accessories are your opportunity to make a serious style statement. If you love animal print, wear leopard Loubou's. If you're a diamond girl, bling out your do with Cartier hair accessories. If you love handbags, then you're in luck. Judith Leiber and Oscar de la Renta are designing bags specifically for weddings and they're truly breathtaking. Come February, this crystal flower bouquet miniaudière, as well as a myriad of other styles, will be available in Leiber's boutiques. You can purchase this Oscar de la Renta silk embroidered clutch today from Net-a-Porter for $1,050.

Don't see any designs you like? You can *design your own jewelry* to last a lifetime.

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Balenciaga Daim Alphabet Tote

Has Balenciaga officially lost its luster? Other than the wrinkled lambskin bags that debuted 10 years ago, I rarely see any designs that interest me. The ginormous letters, which spell Balenciaga if you manage to stare at this monstrosity long enough, are incredibly immature and the printed leather is gaudy. Why is such a juvenile tote made out of Italian leather and suede? At the very least, this tote should be crafted from canvas and retail for about $295. Unfortunately, anyone that might find this bag to be the perfect roomy vacation tote will be immediately turned off by the $1,795 price tag. Purchase from Barneys at your own risk of being ostracized and ridiculed. I just realized why so many fugly bags are coming out this season. No one is staying in their lane. Mulberry, Jerome Dreyfuss, and Balenciaga are trying to cater to children, when they should be sticking to what they know.      

  

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Valentino Lace & Straw Shopper

I never thought I'd say this, but Valentino has officially replaced Chloé as my favorite handbag design house. Of course Chloé bags are timeless and classic, but Valentino gives me the glamour that I crave. Let's face it. There have been quite a few hideous designs popping up at retailers lately and Valentino is the only resolution to a famine of beauty. Just take a look at this ladylike shopper. It may be understated in size, but it's definitely not lacking in style. Only Valentino would juxtapose a raw material like straw against such a feminine lace. The patent bow adds the perfect touch of elegance. This level of romance is unparalleled in fashion. Purchase for $1,395. Shop Valentino bags at Net-a-Porter.com.     

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Mulberry Alexa Quilted Denim Bag

I am a big fan of Mulberry, so it pains me so that they have created such a hideously revolting bag. Just the sight of all these colors make my head spin worse than shots of cheap Vodka. It was as though the Mulberry creative team sat down and thought, "hmmm how can we make the iconic Alexa satchel a hot mess!?" Well, they have succeeded. Enticing denim bags are already hard to come by and this tie-dye black, pink, and bleached denim wash is not helping at all. I'm assuming that the leather straps must have been taken from a rare leather of an almost extinct species to place this purse at a price point of $1,250. I can hear Michael Kors now... "No one would pay more than $15 dollars for this bag, I mean lets be serious, it looks cheap" (head nod from Heidi and squinted displeased eyes from Nina Garcia). A word of advice to Mulberry: stick to your usual classic look instead of attempting an urban makeover. It's obviously not your forte. Purchase Mulberry bags at Net-a-Porter.  

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The Ultimate Tote by Roberto Cavalli

Roberto Cavalli is the king of bling, which can make it quite difficult to find sophisticated handbags in his collections. However, this tote personifies style and elegance, while still maintaining his fun-spirited aesthetic. I'm particularly fond of the embossed leopard variation. Who knew that animal prints could actually be subtle? The royal pony-hair* adaptation is gorgeous as well, and it makes a serious style statement. I even like the oversized logo plaque. It's incredibly royal and old-world in appearance. My only complaint is the outrageous pricing. The leather version is $2,400, while the pony hair option will run you an additional thousand bucks. Earth to Roberto Cavalli. If I'm ever forced to choose between you and Chanel, I'm always going to go with the latter. Purchase at Roberto Cavalli's website, but take my advice and wait for them to go on sale.       

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*I received a heated email recently from one of my readers asking how I could sleep at night after featuring pony-hair bags. While I'm willing to take the heat for showcasing furs bags, most of which I give a negative review, I do want to clarify that designers are not slaughtering ponies. Pony-hair is a fashion industry term for hair-calf and is no different from cow-hide in terms of animal cruelty.  

Weekly Fashion Roundup

Capes are kind of a big deal (in my head), and I'm loving them. This $68 draped wool jacket from needsupply.com is a more casual take on the style, but capes are perfect for that Miss Priss-meets-Military/Edgy look.

If you're big on layering - a perfect way to experiment with various fall pieces in your wardrobe btw- this number could make you throw that whole "button up against the chill" mentality out the window.

Drape those capes ladies - Hmph!

Can we say flashback? This is the frickin fly Jennifer I'm sure we've all missed. Of course, she's been seen out and about, but as of late I've missed the spark or it-factor.

I actually wish she'd stick to acting (romantic comedies) and promo ads. No more singing, dancing, or falling down please!

Let's marinate in the fierceness of her and her offspring re: mommy and twins (Max and Emme) posing for Gucci's new kids line, set to run Spring 2011.

How do you feel about Scar Jo's new hair cut? I consider the bob the ultimate go-to when celebs want "something different," but not too different. The equivalent of bangs really: Not all that serious.

Extensions will be quickly blended if this turns out to be a no-go. But is the look a keeper?

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Eva Longoria

Are you loving this season of Desperate Housewives as much as I am? Vanessa Williams was the perfect addition to the cast. I'm particularly fond of Gabby's new storyline. Could you imagine finding out that your baby's not yours? Eva Longoria is definitely my favorite fashionista on and off the set. She was spotted having lunch with a friend in Studio City earlier this week, wearing a seriously lust-worthy Hermès Birkin. I'm obsessed with the navy hue. The over-the-knee Cesare Paciotti boots aren't too shabby either. Shop Hermès bags at Portero.com.

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Roberto Cavalli Squirrel-trimmed Shoulder Bag

Can someone please tell me why this bag is currently sold out at Netaporter? I'm in utter disbelief at the idea that people are actually pulling out their credit cards to purchase this fugly piece of garbage. There are just too many intricate details on this bag, from the embroidery and beading to the gold brocade and braided handle. To top it all off, it is trimmed in squirrel! Why would anyone want to carry around roadkill? I'm not a fan of fur bags in general, but this is just inexplicable. I usually love Roberto Cavalli's boldness with skins and elaborate details but this design lacks cohesion. To add insult to injury, it retails for an appalling $3,650. If you are ready for an expedition in Siberia, you can add this bag to your wish list at Net-a-Porter.

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Jerome Dreyfuss Henri Bag

I fell in love with Jerome Dreyfuss handbags the very day that I laid eyes on the Bob hobo! The French designer is known for creating accessible and functional bags in fun pops of color. However, I can't seem to figure out what the fug is going on here. Why would anyone combine python, crocodile, suede, and printed calf hair with chain straps and zipper detailing? The combination is truly heinous and actually a bit horrifying. Oh...I get it! It's obviously a Halloween costume. Well, in that case, purchase this little monster at Shopbop.com for $1195. I know that I shouldn't say this about one of my advertisers, but the buyers at Shopbop desperately need to learn the definition of editing. Shoppers want to see a curated selection of the season's must-haves, not a bunch a crapola interspersed with a few chic finds.

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Michael Kors 'Tonne' Tote

I usually try not to report on handbags that aren't currently available for purchase. There's nothing more annoying than falling in love with a bag that you can't purchase for 6 months. Plus, I like to see them in person before writing reviews. However, this Michael Kors tote from the holiday 2010 collection is so unbelievably gorgeous that I couldn't help myself. It's sophisticated and refined, but far from boring, thanks in large part to the intricate, oversized hardware. This sumptuous tote features supple leather that has been gathered around the twisted handles. It's the perfect size for storing all of your necessities without weighing you down and we all know how handy a large shoulder drop can be. Personally, I'd pick up the white variation because white is a major trend for spring, so it will transition flawlessly into the upcoming season. Pair this bag with dark denim and a basic tee for your winter cruises and vacations. The Michael Kors 'Tonne' tote retails for $995. Yep, it's less than $1000! Shop Michael Kors bags at Net-a-Porter.com.   

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Chanel Tweed and "Fantasy Fur" Clutch

On a shopping trip to Chevy Chase a few weeks ago, I was taken aback by the breathtaking beauty of the Chanel Fall 2010 Handbag Collection! Between the runway video and all of the luxurious fur and leather bags in the satellite Chanel store at Nieman's, I could have sworn I was in heaven. This tweed and "fantasy fur" clutch was by far the Cinderella of the collection. The quintessential signature tweed of the bag paired with the decadent faux fur was more than I could bare! And of course the super long strap is keeping in line with the cross-body trend for fall. This clutch is so gorgeous, it's almost a crime to wear it in public... maybe better kept as a souvenir showcased in one's closet. But whether you savor it as a classic or boast it on a night out, the timeless essence of this bag is more than worth the splurge!

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Valentino Va Va Voom Clutch

Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, the duo breathing fresh life into Valentino, have been credited with creating the "it" shoe of the season. For Spring '11, they've borrowed the ultra-femme with hardware theme from their hit studded kitten heel and added a feminized version of a knuckle duster to their bags. It remains to be seen if this will turn as many heads as their lovely shoes. I'm a bit on the fence, mainly because I'm such a fan of the iconic Alexander McQueen knuckleduster bag. While this is a pretty twist on the trend, it's always hard to follow the act of a true innovator--although they've done incredibly well so far filling the impossible set of shoes belonging to Valentino himself. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for $1845.

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Alexander McQueen Jacquard Clutch

The works of Alexander McQueen have always been a far-fetched romanticism that meshes the beauty of historical references with rocker chic detailing. This Queen Skull Jacquard Clutch has clearly captured McQueen's whimsical take on a traditional style. The silver and gold brocade is simply classic and elegant, while the crown adorned skull reflects the edgy grunge that McQueen is known for. The floral brocade is incredibly feminine, but the leather lining adds a touch of luxe. This clutch is the perfect bag to dress up a little black leather dress and sky high platform heels! Instantly inject a bit of accessible glamour into your fall wardrobe and purchase this clutch at Net-a-Porter for $1,595 $1116.50. I had my doubts, but Sarah Burton has proven that she has what it takes to pick up right where McQueen left off. Have you seen her breathtaking spring collection?

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Kate Spade 'The Great Gatsby' Book Clutch

Have you heard that Baz Luhrmann wants to re-adapt F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby for the big screen? I'm thrilled because it has always been one of my favorite novels. Who wouldn't want to live in New York City during the roaring 20's? Rumor has it that Leonardo DiCaprio is up for Jay Gatsby, Tobey Maguire for Nick Carraway and Amanda Seyfried for Daisy Buchanan. I have one word for that cast...perfection! In other Gatsby news, Kate Spade created a clutch honoring the great American classic, and I have to admit that it's kind of adorable. Book clutches have slowly increased in popularity over the last few years. Initially I thought they were a bit immature and sort of costumey, but they've grown on me. Now I think they may be the perfect bag for someone who loves to read or has an eccentric fashion sense, and of course a librarian or a teacher. Purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue for $325, but be warned. This clutch can either go incredibly right or terribly wrong depending on the styling. My advice - keep it simple.

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Givenchy Antigona Duffle

Happy Columbus Day! I'm so pleased with the response to the blogazine that I have decided to produce two issues every year, one for fall and one for spring. Thank you so much for sharing it with your fellow fashionistas. It's already one of the most popular posts in BAGPOOR history. I certainly needed that 10 day hiatus, but I'm positively delighted to be back, with yet another gorgeous bag from Givenchy! The Antigona is brand new for fall and I absolutely adore every aspect of it, starting with the quintessentially Givenchy pebbled leather. I also appreciate the versatility of this bag. It's refined enough to be worn in the office, but not so much so that you can't throw it on with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt on the weekends. The size even enables you to utilize it as an overnighter. As most of you will remember from my new hue report, red is making a major comeback for fall, and that's definitely my favorite version of this duffle. Purchase the Givenchy Antigona at Barney's New York for $2,330.  

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<>>>>>>>>BAGPOOR BLOGAZINE<<<<<<<<>

from the editor

When one of my beloved readers contacted me with an ingenious idea to put together a fall issue, I knew that I had to make it happen. I instantly reached out to some of the best bloggers and fashion industry professionals that I’ve encountered over the past year, and was shocked by the outpouring of support. When we partook upon this journey, we knew that it would be quite a bit of work, but we had no idea that it was going to be so much fun! Like the issue itself, this fall is all about taking a risk. From bold animal prints and show-stopping fur accessories, to blue eye shadow and harness jewelry, don’t be afraid to make a serious style statement this season. Our cover girl, Eryn Woods, epitomizes this notion. She has garnered a cult following for her strong vocal abilities, pleasant disposition, and daring look. “Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live.” (Gianni Versace)

-James Michael White

top trends

Patchwork fur scarf, LANVIN, $7,795, kirnazabete.com. Jeweled fur earmuffs, LANVIN, $1,255, bergdorfgoodman.com. Polina goat fur boots, ALEXANDER WANG, $925, net-a-porter.com. Fox fur shoulder bag, MICHAEL KORS, $2,595, saksfifthavenue.com. Fur mittens, BALENCIAGA, price available upon request, brownsfashion.com. 

-James Michael White and Nina Oduro

Leopard coat, BALMAIN, $14,385, mrshe.se. Leopard-print silk-georgette dress, ROBERTO CAVALLI, $2,370, net-a-porter.com. Leopard-print rabbit fur vest, DRIES VAN NOTEN, $1,395, brownsfashion.com. Leopard-trimmed leather gloves, MIU MIU, $540, net-a-porter.com. Luggage satchel in leopard calfskin, CELINE, $2,500, nordstrom.com. Leopard pumps, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, £560, matchesfashion.com. Leopard head bracelet, KENNETH JAY LANE, €290, pret-a-beaute.com.  Leopard bag, YVES SAINT LAURENT, £2,115, matchesfashion.com. Ubai leopard print wallet, JIMMY CHOO, $625, net-a-porter.com.
-Mary Jo Matsumoto