Edidi Miniaudiere: Here Comes The Bride

Happy Monday everybody. Hope you all enjoyed your weekend. I spent most of mine happily helping a friend and coworker find her wedding dress. It's looking like she's going to go with a gorgeous Vera Wang gown, but we're waiting until we see Wang's collection for David's Bridal, before making any rash decisions. Much to my excitement, she has decided to wear a clutch to the reception. Unfortunately, neither of us were blown away by Judith Leiber's debut bridal collection, so I've been on the prowl for the ultimate miniaudiere and I think I found it. Ain't she purty? Edidi's designer, Wendy Lau, has assembled a team of skilled artisans, all of whom work together to craft each couture masterpiece by hand. For this particular design, nearly 2,000 crystals were hand set over an ornately beautiful, slightly baroque, mosaic. Purchase at Stanley Korshak for $1,800. This isn't a bridal clutch, by the way, so if you're in the mood for a little glamour and elegance, snatch this stunner up.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

On Thursday night, Angie Harmon attended People StyleWatch's Night of Red Carpet Style draped in a strapless black Azzaro jumpsuit with a giant bow that caressed her cleavage. Harmon downplayed the look with heels by JustFabolous, silver accessories, a simple black clutch to match. Was she working it, or looking more like she was ready for a workout?


Get ready all of you low budget bridezillas; your time has finally arrived! Images of Vera Wang's David's Bridal collection are finally out. These beautiful and reasonably priced gowns stay true to the aesthetic and reputation of Wang's full-price bridal line. Their website now features images and video of the entire line. The gowns will premier in stores on February 11.


While I'm sure we're all ready for a comeback; is Ms. Lauryn Hill overdoing it on the fashion tip? Lauryn recently performed in Park City, Utah wearing an awful yeti-style fur over a denim work shirt which was draped over a purple turtleneck. Accessorized with an overabundance of silver jewelry and an embroided belt, Hill clearly thought she was performing at a Funkadelics reunion concert. And where's PETA when you need them? We have a 911 emergency!


As if we don't see her enough, Lady Gaga's new ads for her second M.A.C. Viva Glam Gaga collection, are popping up everywhere. The collection will include both nude lipstick and lipglass, the former of which I'm dying to get my hand's on for only $14.50. Gaga's collection is set to hit U.S. stores on February 17 and internationally sometime in March. Are we digging Gaga's Glam ad?

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A.L.L. NR 1 Bag

Swedish designer Ann-Louise Landelius developed her line of Italian leather A.L.L. bags during her studies at Central St Martins, and the collection took off. Now based on half circles, rectangular and six cornered bags, there's a hint of punk/street that's restrained enough to wear with most daywear.





I love the simplicity of the A.L.L. NR 1 bag that seems roomy enough for every day life but has a little edge to it.

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Christian Louboutin Miss Rope Bag

My apologies for being a day late, but dealing with a sick 2 year old necessitates frequent and impromptu emergency room visits. However, I just had to share this bag with all the Bagpoor readers because it's my absolute favorite bag of the moment.

My current obsession, the Miss Rope Bag, comes to you courtesy of Christian Louboutin. I know what you're probably thinking, "A must-have bag from Louboutin? Really?" YES!!! I'd venture to say not much descriptive writing is needed to convey to everyone reading this why the Miss Rope is so amazingly perfect. First, it's a lady-like satchel that heralds back to the day of your mom {or grandma's} framed handbag. And though I am a sucker for framed bags, I love that this design is decidedly softer than the bags it was inspired by. The allure of a structured bag is here, but the edges are rounded {sigh}. Then there are, of course, the tube-like accents on the flap top to discuss. These protuberances are Miss Rope's raison d'être - it's reason for being. If the design would exist sans the v-shaped, leather-covered tubes, it would be a fine bag but certainly nothing special.

This lovely bag comes in several colors, but my preference is for this taupe version with the perfect addition of gunmetal hardware. You can purchase it through Net-a-Porter.com for $1495 - a price that's more than fair for such a well-executed design. Thanks, Louby! It's nice to know you can make drool-worthy accessories other than shoes.

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Fendi 'Fashion' Top Handle

When I spotted the Fendi 'Fashion' Top Handle at the spring runway show, I was instantly drawn to it. The structured shape certainly appeals to my recent infatuation with anything sophisticated and ladylike. Red has always been one of my favorite handbag hues, especially this bright cherry variation. You can practically feel the supple, smooth Italian calfskin through the screen. The flap features a minimal amount of piping detail, which keeps the overall design from being boring. I also appreciate the mini flap that hides the twist-lock closure, because it helps to create a cleaner look. The adjustable handle allows for the perfect fit regardless of body type, and it includes the all important, optional shoulder strap for the added convenience of hand's free wearability. With measurements of 11"W x 8"H x 6"D, the 'Fashion' bag seems like the perfect alternative for women who found the Peekaboo too large and slightly masculine. However, there's one problem with this bag, and it's a deal breaker.

What's with the tobacco and black striped fabric? I could almost forgive Fendi if it were black or navy monogrammed canvas, as opposed to this cheap polyester blend. At the very least, a major price reduction is in order before I would be willing to accept the fabric detail, but at $1,870... I'll pass. Hopefully some entirely leather versions will pop up soon. Shop Fendi bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

It's only fitting to start our roundup with an entry for our FLOTUS. Michelle Obama wore this rich, daring McQueen gown to a state dinner earlier this week, which honored Chinese president Hu Jintao.

I think the silk organza looks stately, but not too prim. I'm not big on this asymmetrical sleeve, but I do like the floral print and color palette.


As for the Golden Globes, there were two gowns in particular that took me by surprise. One was a gorgeous, yet simple peach Calvin Klein dress worn by Emma Stone.


There were tons of complaints citing the dress was too close to Emma's skin tone, but I actually loved this number. There's that extra backless detail to add interest and the color, in my opinion, makes her glow. Perfect example of minimalism done well.


The next pick that I noticed in a not-so-good way, was Halle Berry's black Nina Ricci dress. I honestly just.don't.get.it.

It looks like a corset club dress with tatters attached. I mean really? It's obvious she's flawless, but she could have done so much better. Oh well, there's always the Oscars.


Finally, here's a sneak peek of something to keep you warm during the ruthless, chilly months - best served hot off the runway. I'm really mesmerized by this Pringle of Scotland knit coat. This look is from their Pre-Fall 2011 collection.

I like outerwear that works well with layering, and the added coverage at the neck, arms and legs is a MUST when fighting the cold.

The neutral color is great for mixing in anything from your wardrobe, and the stitching and pattern gives this knit that extra detail to keep eyes lingering as you pass by -snug and swiftly.
Bundle up!

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: January Jones



I suppose I was immediately drawn to this photo of January Jones because she's wearing an outfit I'd likely choose myself for a day of errand-running. We both favor a pared down look {simple top, comfy jeans, broken-in sneakers}, but always, and I mean always, accented by a fabulous bag.

Ms. Jones chose a neutral beige Dior Libertine Hobo for her latest outing. The 'Libertine', introduced by the label for Fall/Winter 2010, is quite a modern and casual design. We're used to seeing structured, lady-like bags from Dior, but that seems to be changing as of late. The Libertine is quite the sizable bag though I'm convinced January is carrying the smaller and slightly less expensive version. 

Some of the elements I like most on the 'Libertine' are the rounded, whipstitch-accented top handle, buckled side straps and, of course, the folded leather front panel. What I'm not too keen on - the price! A steep $2300 for the black and brown versions available on Saks.com, and $1950 for the smaller iteration available at Dior boutiques. Why is it such an expensive endeavor to imitate celebrities {I ask myself in a rhetorical and masochistic manner ;-)}.

Photo credit: JustJared.com

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Chloé Aurora Tote

Though it's still a frosty winter outside, designers are beginning to roll out their spring collections. Much to my excitement, this season will take color blocking, breathtaking prints, and stark whites to frenzied levels of chic, that will be timeless in any woman's closet. In particular, the utilitarian look is one of my favorite trends, that's actually a carry-over hit from the Fall 2010 collections. Chloé smartly took this trend by the horns and revamped their iconic Paddington bag into an oversized caramel tote. The Chloé Aurora Tote features the signature golden padlock with a leather strip stylishly showcasing the designer logo. Besides the functionality of its spacious interior, strategically designed to perfectly fit your laptop or iPad, this bag also has golden studs at its base to protect your posh leather investment from the harsh surfaces of the outside world. With such a classic design, the Chloé Aurora Tote is a go to carry-all for your daytime wardrobe. It will gracefully complement a little white dress, while also pulling together an ornately printed wrap dress, with the addition of nude patent platforms of course. Make a worthwhile investment for Spring and purchase this tote for $1,800 at Net-a-Porter.com.

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Jil Sander Market Bag

If you're in the market for a minimalist chic bag for spring, look no further. What can I say? Some designs just speak to my simplistic side. As always with Jil Sander, it's all about the minute details. The navy blue handle clearly stands out as a creative touch. However, for those of you who would prefer to wear this bag in its most understated form, simply remove the detachable handle and use the loops built within the design to fling this beauty over your shoulder. Obviously, the real showstopper is the color of the bag itself. You can chose between bright green, which is my personal favorite, electric fuchsia, or yellow. Pair this slouchy hobo with a little white dress and you're out the door in effortlessly luxurious style, wearing two of spring's hottest trends, no less. Purchase the Jil Sander Market Bag at Net-a-Porter.com for $895.

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MARC by Marc Jacobs Natasha Bag

I had a miserable weekend. There, I said it {well, wrote it}. Terrible weather, no Internet service, hubby felt like a bus hit him - just one of those weekends when you wish you could skip forward to the beginning of the week. Whew! Glad I got all that off my chest so I can move on to a perfectly fine bag at an even better price point.

Marc Jacobs' MARC line is seriously one of the best {if not the best} "budget-friendly" line in the fashion industry. He puts as much thought into this endeavor as he does to his high-end namesake collection as well as his work for Louis Vuitton. Quirky yet sophisticated, youthful yet polished can best describe the offerings we see season after season from MARC by Marc Jacobs. But I'm all about the bags, and a MARC bag never disappoints {almost never, that is}.

Comfortable, practical everyday bags can never be in short supply. The Natasha, a simple messenger bag, is certainly not the most exciting bag you'll ever come across, but you must admit the shape and contours of the design are appealing. Not to mention the gorgeous sage color this particular version possesses. This is a great color for the entire year. It's also available in coral and a rather nice shade of olive green, but the sage is my absolute favorite. The bag boasts the usual elements found on such a style - roomy interior, long, adjustable shoulder strap and minimal hardware. However, even with such bland tricks, the Natasha manages to find life in the half-moon shape of its' fold-over flap and the pleated corners of its' rounded silhouette. Subtle yet still eye-catching is not an easy task to achieve when designing a handbag, but Jacobs' is the king of this {when he wants to be ;-)}.

The bag itself can work for almost any occasion. Take it to work, run errands, grab some dinner, go watch a movie - it's a bag to use the entire day. Plus the price is as enticing as the bag itself. We can all agree $350 is not too egregious a price for such a perfectly fine leather bag you'll use the entire year. My only complaint is that I dearly wish Jacobs' design team would consider getting rid of the logo-emblazoned interior lining. It's less jarring on the eyes and gives the bag a more refined look. Still, a good bag at a great price. Don't you think?

Available via Net-a-Porter.com.

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The Golden Globes: Best and Worst Bags

First and foremost, I have to say Happy belated Birthday to Martin Luther King Jr. and commend him for his service to our country. He died fighting to obtain equal rights for all, but lives on through his words of acceptance and tolerance. "I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear." - MLK Jr.

Now, can we talk for a moment about The Golden Globes? I could barely contain myself watching the red carpet pre-show. Everyone pulled out all the stops and whether I loved it or hated it, I definitely wasn't bored. Feel free to check out our facebook page for my complete analysis of the red carpet fashion. Notorious for disagreeing with the critics, I thought that Jennifer Lopez, Olivia Wilde, Amber Riley, and Anne Hathaway were the best dressed celebrities last night. However, since most blogs and magazines neglect to cover the bags, I've decided to pick up their slack. That is my job, right? My pick for best bag was unquestionably Amy Adams wearing the Surrender clutch from Kilian's Night Fetishes collection, which she paired with a stunning Marchesa gown. Jennifer Love Hewitt, on the other hand, decided to wear the Sang A Flash, which I love, but it's completely inappropriate for an award show, mostly due to its size. Too add insult to injury, her hair, makeup, and Romona Keveza gown were dreadful as well. I seriously wish that she would seek help, because she obviously doesn't understand anything about style. 

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Sorbet Delight from Louis Vuitton

Happy Friday everybody! I'll keep it short and super sweet to round out our work week. This fabulous scoop of patent leather striped sorbet is a new Spring offering from Louis Vuitton. Sorbet and sunset hues are a couple of major color trends for Spring 2011, and this particular combination of soft strawberry with intense golden yellow and iced apricot is perfection. I love it all the way down to it's exquisite hole-punched logo. Yes please!

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Plussize-dresses.com

I am all about this little black dress from Mica Paris. While the subtle and sophisticated cowl neck exposes your back, the classic drape front is perfect for a long contemporary necklace or chunky statement piece. This LBD accentuates the waist-line and will give your body a flawless hourglass shape. Simply reverse the dress to reveal a hint of cleavage for a sexy night out on the town. I also appreciate the fact that the sleeves are loose and flowing, which is ideal for women who like to camouflage the troublesome arm area, while maintaining a high level of comfort.

The little black dress is timeless and this is definitely a great style to add to your collection for only £30. Merchandise it with lots of jewelry, a belt, and some sky high pumps or play it down with an infinity scarf, some cotton leggings, simple stud earrings, and flat boots. The choice is yours, but the options are endless. Purchase at PlusSize-Dresses.com.

--Naza, The Fationista

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Bottega Veneta Woven Wristlet Clutch

First and foremost I would like to apologize for my absence this week and thank my contributors for holding down the fort. My job has become increasingly hectic and I simply couldn't keep up with my posts. It's actually been difficult to find bags worthy of reviewing anyway, because we're playing the inevitable waiting game that always takes place between seasons. Getting down to business, let's discuss a new clutch from the Bottega Veneta SS11 collection. This bag is decidedly bold for Bottega Veneta, while still maintaining the quiet sophistication of the brand. I personally love the fact that it's a wristlet, because I have a tendency to be forgetful, particularly after having one too many glasses of champagne. Don't let these pictures fool you. This clutch is quite large and the roomy interior is lined in lightly hued suede for added practicality and luxury. Although, I adore the classic woven detailing, I would have preferred it in leather. In its current state, I can't help but feel that the weaving is such a waste of the beautiful crocodile skin. Taking this logic a step further, I would have only used crocodile skin for the flap, where you get the most bang for your buck. That certainly would have reduced the astronomical $8,300 price tag. With that said, this little beauty would definitely be mine if money were no object. Available for preorder at Saks.com.

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Jimmy Choo Alba Bag

My husband and I have been discussing the possibility of retiring to the Caribbean when the time comes (20 years from now!), and our musings immediately got me fantasizing about a more immediate venture to the area. Lord knows we are in desperate need of a tropical vacation right about now. As a bag lover, I just had to search online for the perfect resort bag, and the Jimmy Choo Alba is exactly what I'm looking for.

This generously sized shoulder bag sports thick, nude textured leather, two comfortable top handles and chain-link accented zipper pulls. Now in all honesty, this particular design is similar to a couple of very successful bags from Marc Jacobs and YSL. The laser cut wave pattern on the leather exterior is reminiscent of the MJ Rockabilly while the upside down "Y" paneling resembles the YSL Easy Y bag. While not the most original design as of late, you must admit the two design elements I pointed out meld together quite nicely.

Jimmy Choo delivers an end product that is both modern and sophisticated - the ideal vacation companion. It's a pity the price is anything but ideal. At a whopping $2695, the 'Alba' is priced way out of my comfort zone and will regretfully remain in my fantasies along with my hopes of a Caribbean vacation.

Available via Net-a-Porter.com

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Emmy Rossum

Actress Emmy Rossum

Most women believe they should own a clutch, but many don't. In fact if they do own one, it's probably a basic black, chain-strapped little box they take out to formal dinners and weddings. But where is the fun in that?!? Trust me when I say I love little black clutches, but I'm exploring other options lately. One of my latest obsessions comes in the form of Misela's Serra at Pera Clutch.

Emmy Rossum stepped out New Year's Eve looking youthful and stylish in a gold Julien Macdonald dress, Jimmy Choo heels and Misela clutch. This look is perfection. Although Macdonald's frock is spectacular as all his designs are, my attention was immediately drawn to the cream-colored clutch. With its' simple style and structured shape, this Misela design satisfies a woman's need for a functional clutch. It is the gold chevron hardware-accented foldover flap, however, that truly makes the design standout.

Large Misela Serra at Pera Clutch in metallic stone

The detailing on this bag is inspiring. The mix of embossed and smooth leather in metallic finishes, the metal-encrusted flap, even the detachable chain and leather shoulder strap are all executed with an elegance similar designs fail to achieve. Visit the Misela online shop to score a Serra at Pera clutch ($650-$750). It's available in several colors and finishes, but my favorite is the stone grey version (pictured).

Photo credit: redcarpet-fashionawards.com

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Mulberry Tillie Collection

I have been staring at this Mulberry ad for weeks, waiting patiently for the Tillie Collection to debut online, before writing a review. Mulberry is the go-to brand in the UK for classic handbags that will prove to be wardrobe staples for years to come. The timeless sophistication, high level of craftsmanship, and relative affordability are what keep women coming back for more. For fall, I was all about the Neely, and my Mulberry addiction continues for spring with the Tillie.

I'm obsessed with the textured blush leather variation, which actually conjures up fond memories of my love affair with the tweed Alexa. Only Mulberry would utilize rose-gold hardware in order to achieve a truly monochromatic look. It's incredibly chic and adds femininity to such a structured bag. Obviously, I'm in full support of the black leather version as well. Carry this beauty in the crook of your arm for a slouchy casual look or fling it over your shoulder to achieve a decidedly urban look, more appropriate for the office. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the Tillie has plenty of interior space for your daily essentials, but it's not oversized, so it won't weigh you down or look ginormous on petite frames. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for a very reasonable $1,175.    

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Stella McCartney Falabella Botantical-Print Tote

The resort collections are here and it brings me much excitement to think of fun fashion for far off tropical destinations. One of the most riveting trends for Resort 2010 is the mixing of bold prints and colorful hues. This Falabella Botantical-Print Tote by Stella McCartney, however, leaves me wondering how such a fugly design can come from such beautiful inspiration? To be fair, the flowers are attractive individually and they would be lovely watercolor prints for note cards. However, the compilation of them on this nylon tote with chain shoulder straps is leaving me bored and disappointed. The overall appearance is haphazard and, dare I say it, cheap. If you're a farm gal interested in a new field tote, preorder this bag at NeimanMarcus.com for $1,434. Unbelievably overpriced even if you happen to like this monstrosity. I do, however, support the more neutral iterations, available at Net-a-Porter.com.

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Nina Ricci Tiered Evening Bag

I've always declared my love for all things glamorous and ultra-feminine, so it should come at no surprise that I absolutely adore Nina Ricci and, in particular, their resort collection. Peter Copping's design direction has certainly impacted the brand for the better. His experience working under Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton has undoubtedly shaped his perception of the importance of handbags and accessories. Gone are the days of Nina Ricci placing a wreath on a mediocre bag and expecting us to swoon. Not only did the turn-lock hobo from the fall collection make our top 10 bags of 2010 list, but I'm already in lust with a new design. This tiered evening bag is perfection. It's essentially a flap bag comprised solely of tiered strips of ruffled silk. An embellished chain handle featuring jewels and ribbons adds the final touch of femininity. Raspberry was my favorite hue from their resort color palette, but the black version has an undeniable Parisian elegance. I've also seen it in nude, but it wasn't as impressive. Purchase at Barneys for $1850.

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Chloé Cary Bag

Happy New Year, Bagpoor readers! I am so honored James invited me to contribute to Bagpoor.com. For those of you that have no idea who I am, here's all you need to know about me - bags are my "thing". I've been collecting designer bags for over twenty years, and writing about them for four. I have a few labels I'm very loyal to and some that I court from time to time. It's tough for a label to jump from my 'sometimes' group to my 'go-to' group, but Chloé managed to do just that. It's not too difficult to see why.

With designs like the Paraty and Marcie, Chloé has permanently made its' mark in the designer handbag world. Under Hannah MacGibbon's capable and creative command, Chloé  has produced some of the most understated yet sophisticated "it" bags in recent memory. While I'm still under the spell of both the designs I mentioned, it's Chloé's latest contribution that has me reaching for my credit card.

The Chloé Cary shoulder bag is simple, elegant and practical - all qualities we search for in a designer bag. If you're prepared to plunk down $1600-$1700 for a bag, the 'Cary' is one of the best investments you can make for the new year and beyond. The 'Cary' has a slew of functional elements like a generous 12 x 17 x 8 interior, dual zippered main compartments, sturdy shoulder straps and side zip pockets.

That roomy interior I mentioned curves and slouches in all the right places. The added storage pockets are either elegantly hidden like the large front pocket here or cleverly highlighted with leather trim and gold-tone hardware as the bottom side zip pockets are. Even the top handles received thoughtful consideration. Placing them at an angle instead of flush against the bag allows the design to retain its' intended shape and avoids the dreaded "tugging" present on most bags.

These might seem like minor points to focus on, but if you think back to your favorite "go-to" bag I'm sure you'll agree that it was the little things which made you love it. And boy do I LOVE the Chloé Cary. The large size I've featured is available in a vibrant shade of blue called petrol (think Fendi Spy Bag circa 2006) as well as an absolutely gorgeous pollen yellow. It's priced at $1695, and worth every penny of it. Those of you that might know me from Señora Cartera know that pricing is an important factor for me when recommending a bag to readers. I'm happy to recommend a $3000 bag as easily as I would a $500 one as long as the bag's design, materials and construction justify the price. In the case of the 'Cary', it's $1700 well spent. This is a bag you will have in your wardrobe rotation for years to come. Period.

In case you're interested, there is a smaller (only slightly) version in a stunning chili red hue priced at $1565 as well as a jaw-dropping $3755 nude-grey python iteration with a more overall pyramid-like shape. I'm not entirely sold on the latter choice as the shift in shape seems an unnecessary retooling of an already perfect design. Shop Chloé bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

Once again, an enormous "THANK YOU" to James and everyone at Bagpoor.com for having me here.

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Feliz Año Nuevo!

I'm back from Puerto Rico and it was a wonderful vacation from the freezing cold weather in Virginia. As soon as we arrived at the hotel, I was captivated by the oceanfront view from our balcony. We played the slots at the casino and stopped for dinner at one of the many fabulous local restaurants on Ashford Avenue. We woke up really early the next day to visit the rainforest. Here are a few of my favorite sites.  



Yokahu Tower

 



On the way back from the rainforest we stopped at La Muralla and had the most amazing Piña Coladas. You can't miss it, because there's a dog on the roof...lol.