Judith Leiber Kyoto Pagoda Clutch

I know what you're thinking... "Is this a joke?" I'm still waiting for someone to pinch me and awaken me from the erroneous fantasies of the design team behind this impractical clutch. To be fair, the fully beaded brass with Austrian crystals is a sight to behold. Yet, its beauty is much more suitable as a decor piece in a Japanese inspired formal living room than as an evening clutch. I can't even imagine trying to whip my hair back and forth in the club nor sipping champagne at a gala with this clutch. It's just so out of place in any evening atmosphere. Maybe Judith Leiber should design a collection of home decor that imitates real life architecture and animal life and leave the handbag making to more utilitarian designers. Especially considering that this clutch is priced at $6,795... I'm sure at that price point, Judith Leiber could design a wardrobe chest with similar imagery in mind that's more functionally suitable. Purchase at Bergdorf Goodman to add to your collection of over-priced accessories that never leave the house.

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Marc Jacobs Bow Bag

The holiday season is officially underway. I hope all of you enjoyed your Thanksgiving. I had a great time laughing, loving, and EATING with family. Did anyone else dread coming in for work today? I'm already thinking about Christmas break, which I will be spending in Puerto Rico (Yay!), and more specifically what I'm going to wear. The holiday season is all about comfortable glamour and that's why I adore this Marc Jacobs bag. This classic flap bag goes with everything and you can easily dress it up for holiday parties. The metallic silver hue and tiny bow detail are perfect for the holiday season. It also comes in gold and black, but I prefer the juxtaposition of the silver leather and gold hardware. Purchase at Nordstrom for $650. Speaking of which, all of my favorite Versace bags are now 40% off at Nordstrom. Oh, and Net-a-Porter's end of season sale has begun. I just snagged a sequined Valentino shawl. On your marks. Get set. GO!

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Modeling agencies at war? Yep! Apparently, Next modeling agency sued Ford for allegedly stealing their money makers; models Anna Maria Jagodzinska, Anna Aleksandra Cywinska, and Karmen Pedaru. Now, according to court documents, the three models are actually suing Next, for "collecting and converting hundreds of thousands of dollars of their earmarked compensation remitted by third parties for bookings in the United States." The ladies are seeking over $2 million altogether in punitive damages. Doesn't look so promising for Next. Ouch!

Transgender model Lea T is set to appear on a segment of one of Oprah's final shows. The 28-year-old model is best known as Givenchy designer Riccardo Tisci's ex-assistant turned muse, who is now one of the most well known working models today. Lea T has modeled couture, starred in major ad campaigns, and has even appeared nude in French Vogue. From fetching coffee to sitting on Oprah's couch? Gotta love it! It looks like Tyra Banks' ANTM transgender contestant Isis Tsunami may need to step her game up!

Willow Smith's shockingly unique look during the AMAs, caused a riff when people realized it was a ripped off design. The one puffy leather sleeve looks amazingly similar to that of Mother of London. Not only was it a knock-off, it wasn't a very good one. The designer behind this look, Mildred Von Hildegard is not enthused by the copied look. When asked for a comment, Mildred had this to say: I’m disappointed and saddened that this will negatively impact my business. My original design is now recognized in the mass media as someone else’s work, and it’s very hurtful on both personal and professional levels. I hope this can be resolved, and I wish nothing but the best to Willow.” Not a good way to start off in the game Willow! What did you think of Willow's knock-off outfit?

Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Bryan Boy

Blogging sensation, Bryan Boy, was recently spotted in New York City rocking D&G fur patchwork boots and an Emilio Pucci shoulder bag. He has been one of my favorite bloggers for years. BB's site covers everything from his latest sky high heel acquisition to his undying admiration for Marc Jacobs. He sits front row at Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana shows and has even been featured in American VOGUE. I've been obsessed with his Pucci bag for quite some time. In fact, you may remember my glowing review of the blue mock croc version back in August. His black suede variation with silver hardware is available at Pucci boutiques and their website for $1695.

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Rob Ryan for Lulu Guinness Fan Bag

Rob Ryan and Lulu Guiness with the design he made for her fan bag

Lulu Guinness fans (please excuse the pun) probably know about the special fan bags that were commissioned with designs by Rob Ryan, Paloma Faith and Sophie Dahl. I am a huge Rob Ryan fan and his design for Lulu incorporated one of his amazing papercuts that was re-worked to fit the bag. Every star on the bag is hand embroidered with silver thread and dotted with Swarovski crystals. It's stunning! There has only been one made which was just auctioned off for charity.



You can still see the bag on eBay and it's worth a look: click here to see some of the details on the bag. Rob is known for his whimsical little poems that he weaves into this work and the inside of the bag is embroidered with words, "These words are worth less than the breath used to say them...if we cannot be together."

Haven't heard of Rob Ryan? Shame on you! There's more about my secret favorite artist on my blog today!

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Chloé Eden Tote

You know how I always say that Chloé, and more specifically Hannah MacGibbon, can do no wrong? Well, I take that back. The spring 2011 pieces are trickling in online and some of the designs are a bit lackluster. However, the Eden tote takes the cake as the tackiest bag of the season. I'm all for tasteful monograms, but does anyone really want to walk around carrying a $830 Chloé advertisement? As if the ginormous logo tag weren't garish enough, this tote is literally trimmed with the word, "Chloé." This was clearly their attempt to enter the Coach market and Chloé failed miserably. Shop Chloé bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

Alexander Wang Rocco Bag

There's something about Alexander Wang that is so classically rebellious and keeps me wanting more. This signature studded leather bag continues Wang's reputation of chic edginess with it's sage ridged leather exterior and rows of gunmetal studs along the base. How smart of Wang to introduce a new type of functionality where women don't mind sitting their high end bags on the office or metro floor. Genius! Not to mention that a signature cross-body strap is included for easy transport and it has lots of room for all of your daily necessities. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for $875.

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Miu Miu Matelassé Bag

Does it get any more contemporary chic than Miu Miu? Season after season, Miuccia Prada creates wearable, stylish bags that are far from boring and never trendy. This is the perfect bag to dress up for the office or dress down on the weekends. The quilted matelassé leather is so sumptuous and buttery-soft. Not to mention the fact that it's absolutely beautiful. The sizeable exterior pockets will certainly come in handy for easy access to your daily essentials. I'm all about the small details, like the braided handle and oversized gold hardware. This hobo can quickly transition into a crossbody bag with the optional strap. I adore the sand variation, but it also comes in classic black. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for $1,695. 

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Google has launched a cyber lookbook of sorts, with its latest site, boutiques.com. Now, fashionistas can browse through the virtual boutiques of their favorite designers, bloggers, and celebrities. It's not quite limited to the point, click, buy process - but that's what we'd like to do for the holidays, correct?

You can also start your own online boutique- if you think you fit the bill for a following.

Have you seen the site or any of your fave style mavens on it yet?

Who doesn't want to bring in the holidays with style? These new nail colors from Deborah Lippmann ($20 each) were meant for unapologetic Christmas cheer and extra-glittery toasts. "Today Was a Fairytale" (silver) and "Boom Boom Pow"(the gold polish, which contains 24-karat-gold dust) may make you pull a diva moment, a la Ms. Carey, at the dinner table. Watch out!

Absolutely Not.

This was actually one of the more flattering pics I could find of RiRi's new red Rapunzel look. I understand trying to keep people on their toes, but this honestly sabotages her entire look.

PLEASE go back to the short, black style ASAP, or at least throw this one out. Thanks!

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Dita Von Teese

Dita Von Teese is such a goddess. Can you believe that she just got off of an airplane in this picture? Dita graced London with her presence earlier this week to perform at Erotica 2010. Famous for her ladylike aesthetic, it's only fitting that she's wearing the Dolce & Gabbana Miss Sicily satchel. It's one of the most coveted bags of the season, and her textured raffia version is brand new for the holidays, retasiling for $1,525. I can only aspire to be this chic on my next flight. Shop Dolce & Gabbana bags at Net-a-Porter.com. 

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Givenchy Sequin Clutch

This Givenchy bag is so fugly, it's offensive! I am astonished at how this red blob made its way passed the design team, out of the factory, into the hands of buyers, and finally to us - the innocent bystanders. You would think that someone within the fashion bureaucracy would have intervened, right? Instead, the bag has landed in the laps of retailers and now we must all be subjected to looking at the over-embroidered, over-sequined, over-embellished, and immensely over-priced unflattering piece of crapola. Although the bag has enough bling to impress Phaedra from the Real Housewives of Atlanta, I am sure that anyone who wouldn't wear crystal eye lashes to their baby shower would not find it attractive. I guess the crystals are the reason why this clutch is $3,515 at Kirna Zabete. Frankly, even if all of the embellishments were removed, I wouldn't pay a fraction of that price to walk around with a blood-red silk satin box...would you?

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3.1 Phillip Lim Rosey Clutch

As much as I love the ladylike trend, I'm glad that designers are already returning to my favorite style, rocker chic. I've been dreaming of owning a Hermès Medor clutch for over a year now, but have yet to win the lottery, so I'll have to settle for this incredibly stylish bag from Phillip Lim. This simple fold-over leather clutch has been updated with a snake-embossed, stud-embellished strap detail. Pair it with a leather jacket and sky-high heels for the quintessential model-off-duty look. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for only $425. Talk about affordable luxury.

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Prada Resort 2011 Handbag Preview

According to Saks Fifth Avenue, "Miuccia Prada’s vision for her 2011 Resort Collection was simplicity." Really? Because there's absolutely nothing simple about these handbags. From a distance I actually think they're cute summer bags to tote around on the weekend a la Carrie Bradshaw. However, if we delve a little deeper, some serious concerns arise. Does anyone really want to wear a linen bag? I can't think of a less luxurious material and it's so difficult to care for. Don't get it wet. Don't let it wrinkle. Don't get it dirty. Don't buy these bags. The python and crocodile accents are included for the sole purpose of jacking up the prices, which are exorbitant by the way. And don't even get me started on the proportions. I'm all for ladylike and dainty, but these bags are too small to be functional.

I was always one of the popular girls in school and in camp, so of course I acquired quite a few plastic braided friendship bracelets. All of which mysteriously disappeared in the depths of my closet after 5th grade. Little did I know that Miuccia would rummage through my home, find my bracelets, and come up with the ingenious dreadful idea to use them as straps. I have always been a fan of Miuccia for taking risks and refusing to follow trends, but too often is she incredibly out of touch with the reality of what women actually want to wear. It's beginning to become unforgivable for me. I hope Prada finds new design direction soon before they join Halston and Alaïa in the wonderful world of yesteryear.

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Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Lady Satchel

Nancy Gonzalez never ceases to amaze me. Although her designs are inherently classic and sophisticated, they're never boring or dated. It's definitely her year with the nowness of the ladylike trend and she's garnering quite a bit of attention for her latest creation, the crocodile 'Lady' satchel. Not only is it timeless and elegant, but it's well-made. The high quality brown matte crocodile leather with tonal topstitching and tubular top handles is not only gorgeous but uber functional and durable. The structured shape and large capacity will certainly suit corporate women. Pair it with a monochromatic black ensemble for a chic executive look. At $3,600, this handbag is well worth the splurge. Purchase at Neiman Marcus.

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Valentino Rock Stud Collection

After a week of rain in New York and freezing cold temperatures in London, the sunny 75° weather in the City of Lights was a welcome relief. Fashion industry insiders traipsed aimlessly through the streets of Paris and took in the majestic beauty of the city. Naturally, a great deal of these trendsetters embraced classic kitten heels. Ladylike styling was a prominent trend in many of the fall collections, most notably Louis Vuitton and Prada. However, Valentino was the designer of choice for Paris Fashion Week footwear. Fashion icon and Editor-at-Large of Nippon Vogue, Anna Dello Russo, as well as Alexa Chung were just two of several fashionistas spotted wearing these swoon-worthy Valentino kitten heels. The juxtaposition of the elegant black patent leather against the edgy studded detailing of the blush straps gives the heels an air of modern sophistication. Shoes that are both practical and fashion forward? Quelle surprise!

You didn't actually think that I would only review the shoes did you? The Rock Stud Satchel is one of my favorite classic bags for spring. The timeless shape and incredibly smooth sand leather has been updated with pyramid studs that punctuate the handle as well as the optional shoulder strap. This collection is the perfect marriage of ladylike styling with contemporary detailing. The Rock Stud Satchel retails for $1,995. Shop Valentino bags at Net-a-Porter.com. 

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Kathy Griffin

Kathy Griffin recently attended Gloria Vanderbilt's book launch and she actually looked, dare I say it? Sophisticated. She topped off her ladylike look with the Ralph Lauren Ricky bag. While many mock it for being a Birkin knockoff, I actually find it quite fitting that Ralph Lauren would be inspired by Hermès. After all, they both draw much of their design aesthetic from polo gear. Not to mention the fact that Birkins are almost impossible to find and outrageously overpriced, while the Ricky is available at Ralph Lauren for $3495. And the French baranil calf leather is too die for.  

    

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Could there be wedding bells in this model's future? While there have been plenty of rumors surrounding Ms. Naomi Campbell, this has to be the most frightening. Allegedly, she and billionaire boyfriend, Vladimir Doronin are planning to wed at the ancient Egyptian Temple of Luxor, dedicated to Amun, the God of Sun, which is located on the Nile and will involve tons of their famous friends. Well if this is true, let's just hope she doesn't get mad and throw her cell phone at the flower girl.

According to Elle.com, Reed Krakoff announced that he will be launching an eponymous limited-edition fragrance. This is definitely not a fragrance for the average woman. According to Krakoff, "What a lot of women want is something that not everyone can afford." And what does that mean? Simply stated, you'll be paying $695 for this exclusive fragrance that will be sold at Krakoff's own stores in a variety of colored glass bottles. They even throw in an extra refill of the perfume as well as a funnel for top-offs. So who's going to pick up a bottle of this audacious fragrance?

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow attended the CMA Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, Wednesday night wearing an ombre blue and purple Atelier Versace dress. While her accessories were kept to a minimum, Gwyn's gown definitely made its own statement with a side slit that trailed her upper thigh and a revealing cutout at the waist. What do you think... Sexy or Skanky?

Givenchy is suing BCBG for "unlawfully copying and imitating" their Nightingale bag. I know we all love handbags around here and probably know more than the average shopper, but how could anyone mistake these two designs? Usually in these case the similarities are obvious, but I think Givenchy jumped the gun on this one. Not every bag that has handles and a zipper is a knockoff.   

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Leopard Print That Pops

What do the latest satchels from Celine and platform boots from Christian Louboutin have in common? They are both leopard print, of course. The classic motif is making a major comeback this season and some of my favorite designers are approaching the trend from a revolutionary perspective. They are setting themselves apart from the pack by utilizing vivid pops of color as an unexpected backdrop for the glamorous print, most notably in the accessories department. The pony hair Dolce & Gabbana Miss Sicily top-handle has been updated for the season in a myriad of brightly hued leopard prints that will undoubtedly get you noticed. For the less daring among us, Yves Saint Laurent’s violet leopard print scarf is a seriously chic option. Whichever design you choose, do not be afraid to make a bold accessory statement this winter with intense shades of leopard print. 

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Smythson Nancy Tote

Of all the pleated, ruched, and quilted bags this season, Smythson's Nancy Tote in dove gray is my favorite. I like the relaxed quilting and the simple slouchy carry-all style with just the perfect amount of detailing to make it interesting. There's no loud colors or big logos to be found. Just simple elegance that to me equates the perfect bag. It comes in a larger tote as well, but this size has just the right proportions. For this level of workmanship, the pricing at $1,130 is exactly where it should be and a very good value for a beautiful well-made bag.

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Jimmy Choo 'Roxana' Shoulder Bag

As most of you know by now, I'm enamored with glamour and sophistication. Hence, almost all of my favorite bags are from Valentino, VBH, and other designers with a similar aesthetic. However, every once in a while I come across a design that forces me to step outside of my comfort zone. The Jimmy Choo 'Roxana' is definitely one of those bags. The 70s styling is undeniably bohemian, but it somehow works for me. This slouchy carryall is crafted out of supple vintage leather and features a braided cross-body strap. The orange bead-embellished tassel detail is incredibly chic in a very Rachel Zoe sort of way. Best of all, it's not outrageously overpriced. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for $1,250.

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Alexander McQueen Cherry Blossom Clutch

Sarah Burton must have been thinking of the overwhelming beauty of the blooming cherry blossom trees of Georgetown in Washington, DC when she dreamed up this Alexander McQueen Cherry Blossom Clutch. Not only does she use her feminine touch to update the skull embellished ring clutch with whimsical cherry blossom figurines, but she maintains Alexander McQueen's signature style of reworking real life art into haute fashion pieces. The gold-toned cherry blossoms juxtaposed against the understated black silk satin creates the perfect amount of minimalist elegance. This clutch is timeless enough for sophisticated women, yet trendsetters will be drawn to its uniqueness. Purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,760.

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Mulberry Edna Mini Shoulder Bag

Mulberry's Edna Mini Shoulder Bag is a modern take on the traditional brand's collection of regal pieces. The camel brown leather is exquisitely textured and the detachable gold chain is more than just a strap. With charm embellishments, the detachable chain strap doubles as a piece of jewelry. You can either wrap it around your wrist as a gorgeous bracelet or wear it as a necklace. I love the flexibility of accessorizing with the chain based on your personal style. The possibilities are endless. Mulberry has certainly added touch of whimsy to their sophisticated and classic aesthetic. At $950, this multi-functional bag is well priced. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Somewhere a Ciroc model is nursing a bottle and weeping silently for the close of Sean John's only freestanding retail location. I have a small inkling, however, that P. Diddy will survive the dilemma. The Fifth Avenue store is closing due to "inadequate selling space," a brand spokesperson claimed.

Some history on the location: there was a law suit last year, that apparently entailed frustration due to the store's scaffolding, which allegedly blocked signage and traffic from shoppers. WWD reported that the company is scouting for new locations in New York and L.A. once the Manhattan store closes at the end of December.

But what I wanna know is....when can we expect another season of Making the Band? My DVR patiently awaits.

My favorite gossipy gal Leighton Meester will be the new face of Vera Wang's fragrance launch. Expect an ad campaign for the currently unnamed fragrance by summer 2011. Are you looking forward to another product push for Vera, or are you already settled on your fave scent?

On the heels of 5 years as editor-in-chief, Angela Burt-Murray announced she will be leaving her position at Essence magazine. I would say this news is a shocker, but tis a day in the crazy world of publishing.

Sheryl Tucker, a previous editor-in-chief at Time Inc., will step in during the interim.

Essence has been through its share of controversy this year - but what say you on a change that could prove to be a critical decision for the mag?
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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Double Trouble

Kim Kardashian has been hanging out with Ciara quite a bit lately. It makes perfect sense if you ask me. They're both striking beauties with insane shopaholic tendencies. Not to mention the fact that Kim is currently working on her first album, so I'm sure she's picking up some pointers from the R&B songstress. The stunning duo was recently spotted having lunch in New York City, wearing some seriously lust-worthy bags. Kim is carrying the Chanel Mademoiselle top-handle, which debuted in spring 2008 for $3,495. Ciara is Ricardo Tisci's muse so it's only fitting that she's wearing the Givenchy Nightingale, which is currently available at Barneys for $2,175. 

             

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Missoni Spring/Summer 2011 Preview

Uuuum... what the fug?!?

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More dreadful handbags after the jump...

Michael Kors 'Skorpios' Python Tote

Although I am still displeased with Michael Kors for not choosing Mondo as the winner of this season of Project Runway, I can not deny his genius in creating everyday bags that are both functional and fashion forward for the modern woman. The Michael Kors 'Skorpios' Python Tote features black woven handles with silver hardware for extra support and a discrete logo plate, which hangs from a removable braided strap. Let me also reiterate that this bag is 100% natural python with black leather accents. It's the perfect accessory to pair with your winter white pieces for this upcoming holiday season. Plus, its roomy interior is perfect for carrying office work, school books, or just your daily essentials around town in style. Purchase directly from Michael Kors for $1,495.

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Gucci Beaded Satin 'Broadway' Clutch

I received the Bergdorf Goodman Holiday Gift Book yesterday and quite a few of the accessories caught my eye, including a hideous white feather Marchesa clutch and some seriously swoon-worthy exotic skinned iPhone cases from Maison Takuya. However, the real standout piece was this stunning Gucci 'Broadway' clutch. The satin, which comes in black, gray or taupe, has been completely enveloped with sky blue beaded detailing. All three color options are incredibly elegant and glamorous, but the taupe hue is my favorite because it best compliments the beaded embellishments. The Gucci 'Broadway' clutch retails for $2,490, which is a bit overpriced in my opinion. Purchase at Bergdorf Goodman (212-872-2568). Update: This clutch is now available at Net-a-Porter.com for $300 less.  

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