Weekly Fashion Roundup

Diane Von Furstenberg, who is the President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, recently had to address a comment she made regarding First Lady Michelle Obama wearing an Alexander McQueen gown to the state dinner honoring China. Furstenberg said that she and the organization were "disappointed" that the First Lady decided to wear a British designer for the state dinner. Later however, Furstenberg said she was embarrassed for making such comments because she knows that Mrs. Obama has been "extremely supportive of American designers." Talk about sticking your foot in your BIG mouth!

On Thursday, Oprah shocked her studio audience with the uncensored version of the nude photo of model Lea T that ran in French Vogue. The transgender model went on Oprah to discuss everything from the background of her life to her decision to become a woman. Her father is a world famous Brazilian soccer star and her mother is a devout Catholic. Lea also discussed how awkward it is being on hormone replacement therapy. She is currently preparing for sexual reassignment surgery and admitted being very afraid. Going on Oprah and revealing her life in depth was a very brave thing to do and we commend her.

For those whose hair is still suffering from the harshness of the winter; Lush's re-released R&B (Revive & Balance) finishing hair moisturizer. This moisturizer contains oat milk, olive, avocado, and coconut oils which hydrates the hair and pumps up the shine. It also controls the frizz seen in curly hair and it moisturizes the brittle ends after blow-drying and heat styling. It is definitely a go-to product now that the spring is coming in full effect. It can be purchased at Lush or online for $18.95.

For now Dolce & Gabbana can rest easy. Apparently, their first preliminary court hearing to determine whether or not Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana will stand trial for alleged tax evasion took place on Thursday, but was postponed due to the defendants' lawyers asking for extra time to draw their conclusions. We'll keep you posted on this one.

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Burberry Prorsum Fall 2011 Handbags

After presenting a lackluster spring collection that was clearly designed with the prepubescent shopper in mind, Christopher Bailey is back for fall with an infinitely more appealing line of accessories from Burberry. I'm not blown away, like last fall, but it's a huge step in the right direction. Let's dive right in, shall we?

Many different iterations of this bowling bag were presented at the show, and I think it definitely has "it" bag potential. The suede panel and oversized tassels give it a retro 70s vibe, especially when worn with the optional cross-body strap. This version is the smallest, and it retails for $2,095. It's beautiful in red and black, but I'm drawn to the tobacco hue.   

 This black alligator variation of the largest bowling bag is undoubtedly the most luxurious piece in the collection and the jaw-dropping price tag of $26,000 certainly reflects that. 

This is my favorite bag in the fall lineup, simply because it's so versatile. Believe it or not, these chic clutches can be worn as shoulder bags with the removable cross-body strap. The ribbed high gloss leather version is $1,395, while the alligator variation retails for $7,995. 

Black and white was a major component of the collection, and I love the classic color combination on this slouchy alligator clutch, which actually resembles a cosmetic pouch. Purchase for $8,750. My only complaint is a repeat from the last collection. I know I'm being nit-picky, but I still don't like the ubiquitous logo plaque. The collection is available for preorder on Burberry.com until February 27th, and your purchase will ship within 7 weeks.   

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Badgley Mischka 'Elisabeth' Satchel

The ladylike sophisticated styling of the Badgley Mischka 'Elisabeth' Satchel has been reinterpreted by countless different designers, most notably Dolce & Gabbana. However, I have never seen it executed this flawlessly, at such an affordable pricepoint. The buttery-soft leather features a slight sheen, and the oversized turnlock closure certainly makes a serious style statement. Although, I love the classic look of a single top-handle supporting such a sleek frame bag, we all know how difficult it can be to access your essentials while in transit. That's when the adjustable shoulder strap will come into play, allowing the ease of hands free wearability. With measurements of 12" x 8"x 5", this satchel will undoubtedly hold all of your daily necessities, without weighing you down with excess bulk. Multiple pockets and a lightly hued fabric interior ensure effortless organization. In terms of exterior color options, navy is definitely my top choice. I also appreciate the simplistic beauty of the nude and pearl versions, and of course one can never go wrong with basic black. The Badgley Mischka 'Elisabeth' Satchel is incredibly versatile. Dress it up with a pencil skirt for the office, or down with dark denim on your day off. The possibilities are truly endless. Purchase at Zappos.com for a very reasonable $375.    

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Weekly Fashion Roundup: Grammy Edition

Here's a special Grammys edition of our Weekly Fashion Roundup. Overall, I'll say that I was kind of underwhelmed and disappointed by the fashion that night. There were a few that got it right, but several who got it wrong.


I was actually looking forward to seeing Rihanna's red carpet look for the night. So when I saw this, I was confused - then bewildered. Clearly we all knew she would be wearing something risque, but I just don't get it. At All.

This Jean Paul Gaultier gown looks like a white pipe-cleaner Christmas decoration gone wrong. For Why RiRi?! From the neck up, she looks fab though, and of course that physique is slamming - But you gets no passes from us!

I'm sure Ricky Martin knows by now that this was unforgiveable. Silver/metallic jeggings?? I had sooo much hope for him, until I looked down. Then those combat boots? Goodbye!

Some of the better looks of the night:


All was surely not forgiven for that white number, but this look on RiRi was much more up my alley. I think it was fitting for her performance with Eminen. The fiery background set, plus her red shoulder length hairstyle, made this modified runway look from Christian Dior work for me.


JLo better WERK. This Emilio Pucci metallic dress is extra short, but Jenny has the legs to shut it down with no apologies. While I'm not really a fan of this new hair trend - extra long extensions with raggedy looking ends - the rest of this look was 100 percent correct for the Grammys: fun, young and a little daring.

Her Christian Louboutin pumps complement the look, and can we talk about that Swarovski clutch? Bag lovin!

Who made your fave and worst dressed list?

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Weekly Celebrity Bag Envy: Beyonce

Everyone who knows me is well aware of my obsession with Beyonce. I've been a super fan since the first Destiny's Child album and I firmly believe that she is the most talented performer of our generation. She also happens to be absolutely beautiful and a glamour girl after my own heart. Unfortunately, there seems to be trouble in paradise between she and Jay Z. This photograph was actually taken on Valentine's Day, which she spent with her family and friends, as opposed to her husband. Furthermore, Jay Z recently moved out of their apartment in Tribeca and rented a home in Beverly Hills. There's speculation that they're arguing about children. Beyonce wants to continue focusing on her career, while Jay Z wants kids no later than yesterday. I hate to say it, but that's what happens when you marry someone twelve years your junior. However, I hope they work it out, because they seem to compliment each other well. Moving on to Beyonce's outfit, the real showstoppers are clearly her stunning 6" aquamarine Christian Louboutin Daffodiles. For those of you interested in her clutch, it's the Alexander Wang Jade stingray wristlet and it's brand new for spring. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for $795.

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Michael Kors Gia Crocodile-Embossed Satchel

This past week has been gorgeous compared to the rest of winter, and I can't help but be excited for future spring days to come. Unfortunately, we're still in the weird limbo of brisk winter mornings, sunny spring afternoons, and chilly nights. Transitional pieces are my must-haves for the ups and downs of this weather. I am particularly fond of this Michael Kors Gia Crocodile-Embossed Satchel for this very reason. A great carryover trend for spring is monochrome neutrals, which make transition from your winter to spring wardrobe effortless. In relation to this satchel, neutrals are perfectly worn against this peanut crocodile print. There are just enough gradations in the embossed calf leather to match it with the pastels of this spring's collections or the darker neutrals found in the utilitarian trend for spring. Not to mention, at $695 this bag looks much more luxe than its price tag. Moreover, the buckled flaps on the sides of the purse make for easy access to essentials, like lipstick or a cell phone, and the silver hardware is minimal and chic. I for one am in love with this satchel and find it to be a much better alternative to the Birkin bag than the many imitations that are popping up in the collections of well-known designers like Jimmy Choo. Don't look silly rocking those knockoffs. Opt for this gorgeous satchel instead. Available at NiemanMarcus.com.

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Thakoon 'The Rampling' Bag

I know it's been centuries since I've done an "Ask Bag Poor" segment. Lately, I've simply been responding to everyone individually, but quite a few of you have emailed me about cross-body bags, so I figured that you could all benefit from this review. In my opinion, cross-bodys are a fun accessory to rock on your day off, since they are generally too small to wear to the office. They're a great alternative to tacky fanny packs, while still providing the ease of hands free wearability. Cross-body bags are also a wonderful opportunity to try new trends, such as color-blocking, without the commitment of a larger work tote, which are typically more neutral. For those of you whom are still a bit wary of cross-bodys, I highly recommend ‘The Rampling’ bag from Thakoon's spring collection. Crafted in Italy out of the finest leather and suede, this sizeable satchel actually doubles as both a cross-body and a shoulder bag. According to VOGUE, Thakoon referred to the show-stopping brushed hardware as "antiquated gold." A simple magnetic snap closure provides easy access to your daily essentials, which will be super organized, thanks to three interior pockets. The braided handle is the perfect contemporary touch for such a timeless design. Purchase 'The Rampling' bag at Saks.com for $1,555. If you're digging Thakoon's debut handbag collection as much as I am, check out his Q & A with ELLE Accessories pertaining to his fall line.

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Rebecca Minkoff Fall 2011 Show

Rebecca Minkoff debuted her Fall 2011 collection on Friday at the Lincoln Center theatre, and of course I was there [wearing an embellished Armani scarf]. I managed to snap a photo of the front row and, as you can see, there were quite a few celebs in attendance, including Lo and Stephanie Pratt from The Hills, a few Gossip Girl's, pop singer Kat Deluna, and the rapper, Eve. Naturally, I was more enamored with the fashionistas, like celebrity stylist June Ambrose, who was rocking a ginormous fur trapper hat, Lauren Ezersky a la Behind the Velvet Ropes, and runway coach extraordinaire, Miss J, from America's Next Top Model.

 

June Ambrose

The bohemian chic collection featured flowing chiffon dresses paired with faux fur vests and leather jackets for a decidedly downtown look, while the handbags were mostly updates of classic styles. Minkoff embraced structure and traditional shapes, which allowed the decadent leathers to take center stage. These shimmering black and gold creations will undoubtedly make their way onto quite a few must-have lists come fall. Enjoy the show and shop some of the pre-fall looks at RebeccaMinkoff.com.

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Horse+Nail Spring 2011 Collection

You may remember our feature on Horse+Nail in the Fall Blogazine. Nina was blown away by the high-quality craftsmanship and equestrian influences. Designer Lindsey Hufnagel is back for spring with a collection of cowgirl chic handbags, inspired by Native Americans. The Walker Apache is my kind of bag. It's completely crafted out of black, grey, or tusk suede and the fringed seam adds just the right amount of drama. The horse bit shoulder detail is incredibly innovative and seven dangling bullet shells give the overall design a slight edge. Don't worry about losing your keys in a black abyss, because the lining is snakeskin printed cotton. The Walker Apache is available for $1,270 $889. 

Another bag that tickled my fancy was the Cocopah Duke. It's a classic bucket bag, that actually has a strong military aesthetic, due to the taupe suede and suspended bullet shells. The adjustable chocolate lambskin shoulder strap allows for cross-body action, and this bag also features the snakeskin printed cotton lining. The Cocopah Duke retails for $1,230 $861. Purchase the Cherokee collection at Shopbop.com.      

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Tiffany & Co. Spring 2011 Collection

After launching their debut handbag collection last fall, Tiffany & Co. is back for spring with quite a few pieces of arm candy. I'm most impressed with the Tiffany Reversible Tote. These chic bags will add a pop of color to your drab summer wardrobe. The simple design is accented with a single strap closure, giving the tote a decidedly sophisticated, yet casual appearance. Simply reverse the beautiful coral or chartreuse suede exterior and you have a shimmering gold leather tote. Two bags for the price of one! Pair this tote with a crisp white shirt as well as a pair of khaki pants, and you're out the door in effortless New England style. Best of all, they're actually affordable. The smaller version retails for $395, while the larger variation is $595.

For any serious Tiffany & Co. fans, I'm sure you'll instantly recognize the Bella clutch. Modeled after the iconic little blue boxes, these satin clutches are adorable summer must-haves. I personally recommend the Tiffany Blue® hue, but the sea rose and chartreuse iterations are both lovely as well. Purchase the feminine and fun Bella clutch for $1,195. The spring handbag collection will be available at select Tiffany & Co. boutiques later this month. 

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Alexander Wang 'Lia Sling' Messenger

Alexander Wang's spring collection can best be described in one word as light. Literally, every design was white and fairly nondescript. It was rather boring actually. However, quite a few bags caught my eye, most notably the 'Lia Sling' Messenger. As a die-hard fan of the model-off-duty look, I'm always interested in seeing more iterations of the iconic Coco duffel that single-handedly put Wang on the map. What can I say? Studs are always in style, as far as I'm concerned. I think every woman has a bit of rocker in them, and no one achieves that aesthetic better than Wang. Due to its scaled down size as well as the adjustable shoulder strap, this messenger will be flattering on all body types, even petite women who generally can't pull them off. I'm never blown away by the textured leather that Wang seems to love, and in this case it's still nothing to write home about in my opinion. However, the rose gold studs enveloping the underside of this bag, certainly make an edgy style statement. The basic black option is a no-brainer, but I actually prefer the eggshell version, which happens to be a Net-a-Porter exclusive. It practically screams spring, but I would definitely transition this bag into winter with a faux fur vest and motorcycle boots. To top it all off the 'Lia Sling' is relatively affordable. Purchase at Net-a-Porter.com for a very reasonable $780.  

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Jourdan Dunn is back! She's steadily been booking her share of jobs since returning to the modeling scene after having a child - and her latest photo op is no small deal. Check her out as the face of Burberry's spring campaign. The model has quite a portfolio, including her share of appearances in American Vogue. We're sure to see more of Dunn, so until then, let's soak in her edgy spring look and that metallic Bridle clutch.


Although I'm not the biggest Paltrow fan, she does look FAB on the cover of Harper's Bazaar UK. Gwyneth's perfectly applied smoky eye is featured on their March issue.

Inside the mag you'll also hear her talk about her friendship with Beyonce and her role in Country Strong... *stares into space, then goes back to studying her eye makeup.


Since spring is quickly approaching, here's an affordable shoe pick from ALDO, for less than $100. This bone colored sandal can be paired with your favorite work look, dark denim, or even a Maxi dress.

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SANG A Slide Cross-body Bag

One of my new favorite accessories is the cross-body clutch. They're usually roomy enough to fit the essentials, yet small enough for easy transport, unlike satchels which can be quite cumbersome at times. When looking for such a bag, it's important to choose a purse that has a unique character and effortless look. This SANG A Slide Bag fits the bill. Being first attracted to its sculpted, triple-wave flaps, I was ecstatic to find that this bag had a gunmetal cross-body chain strap. Not only is gunmetal one of fashion's most coveted choices for embellishment, but it's chic and rarely fades. The Silky Nubuck leather also adds to the clutch's beauty, but I prefer the Midnight-Glitter Sea Snake version. The latter, of course, boasts a luxurious element that will spice up any evening look while the strap can make it casual enough to carry around town for a quick bite. Whichever variation you prefer, this bag is well worth the investment, ranging in price from $975 - $1,095. Call SANG A at 212-564-4433 for purchasing information.

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Gucci Malika Clutch

In case there was any doubt that metallics are back in for spring, Giorgio Armani's Privé couture collection was about as futuristic as it gets, with liquid metallic looks hitting the runway, one after another. I personally can never get enough of this trend and it's always a must-have as far as I'm concerned. Gucci embraced metallics this spring with the Malika clutch. This oversized python clutch features an incredibly chic drawstring aspect with knot, logo, and fringe detailing. I'm partial to the gold version, but it also comes in orange and purple. Pair this clutch with a little black dress and sky high heels for the ultimate evening look. Preorder at Gucci for $1,900.

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Milly Sailboat Tote

Let me preface this review by stating that I'm well aware of the fact that the Milly Sailboat Tote is completely unremarkable. However, it was so timely that I simply had to feature it. My friend Naza, from The Fationista, hit me up on Twitter a couple of weeks ago, inquiring as to whether or not I'm in support of the return of the nautical trend. See my response for yourself.  

When I spotted this tote in Milly's debut handbag collection, I felt that it reflected my sentiments exactly. Who in their right mind would be caught dead carrying a white canvas tote, featuring a ginormous sailboat? Even the handles are supposed to mimick the ropes used to hoist the sails. Just to ensure that you don't forget the theme of this bag, it also includes an anchor charm. Seriously, why do nautical accessories always look like cheap novelty items? Ugh! Available at Milly for $250.    

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Diane von Furstenberg Laragh Shoulder Bag

Sometimes we need a bag we can knock around, get dirty and not worry about damaging because it cost us the equivalent of a mortgage payment. The Diane von Furstenberg Laragh canvas shoulder bag is just that bag. The canvas, done in a fun pattern of black and white stripes, will stand up to rough, everyday use. Not to mention that the bag itself will work as a day-to-evening bag, roomy week-niter or comfy resort companion.

Just because the 'Laragh' is an inexpensive bag ($185!) doesn't mean the design team skimped on fancy trimmings. The 22 x 15 x 7 bag boasts a gorgeous tan leather shoulder strap, gunmetal hardware as well as the ingenious placing of the alternating black/white canvas panels resulting in an aesthetically pleasing design.

I'm glad to see DvF is producing sleeker designs. I was sick of the ubiquitous 'Stephanie' hobo, but the 'Laragh' and the 'Maribelle' (more about that design next week) have given me renewed hope that DvF can be a force to be reckoned with in the designer handbag world.

Available via Net-a-Porter.com.

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