Decisions, Decisions...

Ladies and gentlemen,

I regret to inform you that I desperately need to take a break from blogging. I have reached a transitional period in my life and it's time for me to make some serious decisions about what I want to do next and, more specifically, where I want to live. I'm grateful to have so many options, but it can also be daunting to settle on just one. It's been an amazing two years and I have had so much fun sharing my handbag obsession with all of you. Upon my return, I plan to expand the focus of BagPoor.com. I want to be able to interact with all of you on a more personal level. That's why I will be launching a YouTube channel, where we can talk about celebs, reality TV, fashion news, and any other topics that you want to discuss. Thank you for your continued support and I'll be back soon. Promise! If you want to keep up with me, of course you can follow my Facebook and Twitter pages or subscribe to the Email Newsletter. Last, but certainly not least, don't forget to check out What's New at NET-A-PORTER, to shop the fall collections before anyone else.

Warm Regards,

James Michael White

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Manzoni Crushed Lambskin Handbag

I am obsessed with this Manzoni handbag.  It's crafted out of supple wrinkled lambskin that will only improve over time.  The sleek single handle is not only visually appealing, but it's also functional, since it's not attached to the flap. Believe it or not, that's a common mistake and it makes accessing the interior compartment impossible, while in transit. Although it features an incredibly chic flap front, the interior compartment can also be secured with a drawstring closure.  The unique hue is called persimmon and it's a perfect neutral for fall. I adore the black patent leather detailing and substantial brushed brass hardware, both of which add to the high-end appearance of this handbag.  It's sizeable enough to wear to work, but you can certainly dress this bag down with denim and a chunky sweater on your days off.  Purchase at eHandbags for a very reasonable $279 $237.15 (15% off).

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Chloé Wristlet Clutch

That's it! I can't take it anymore. Chloé is really starting to remind me of Ashley from Mrs. Gloria's 1st grade class. You all know Ashley... the teacher's pet. Every time she raises her hand, the rest of the class moans and groans, because she simply cannot answer a question without being long-winded and, of course, correct. Well, that's how other labels must feel around Chloé. Season after season, Hannah MacGibbon consistently cranks out lust-worthy bags.  She knows what women want and delivers every time. Timeless designs are the name of the game, but she always manages to update and modernize a particular style. This basic black clutch will last forever, because it doesn't follow trends. However, to keep the design fresh, MacGibbon incorporated a sizeable gold-tone wristlet, that will undoubtedly get you noticed. Not to mention the added ease and functionality. This supple lambskin clutch is also lined in leather for a boost of luxury. With measurements of 8" x 6" x 4", this oversized clutch can definitely transition from day to evening. Purchase at NET-A-PORTER for a very reasonable $875. Duh! Where else can you already shop the fall collections?

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Fendi Anna Shoulder Bag

 I've always been a bit obsessed with Fendi, but the fall 2011 collection is truly breathtaking.  Karl Lagerfeld expertly blended seemingly opposing textures and hues, through the use of a muted color-palette and understated silhouettes.  The result was a sophisticated collection of timeless, figure-flattering designs that women can effortlessly transition from day to evening.  The leather goods collection was no exception.  Over-embellished baguettes and ostentatiously monogrammed Spy bags are officially things of the past.  Fendi is ushering in a new wave of femininity, centered on the perfect marriage of quiet elegance and classic functionality.  With the success of color-blocking this summer, it should come as no surprise that it will return as a top trend this fall.  Take the Anna shoulder bag, for instance.  The color-blocking and goldtone hardware keeps the design modern and fresh, but it's neutral color palette and simple shape will never go out of style.  With plenty of interior space and an optional crossbody strap, it has all the makings of a perfect everyday bag.  Preorder at Neiman Marcus for $2,520.           

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Karl Lagerfeld gave us life light, with the fall 2011 Chanel couture show.

Once all of his signature, dramatic pieces had been thoroughly observed, Lagerfeld made his way down the runway, cuing the models' shoes to illuminate!


Here are a couple of the looks from the show, above. Are you loving the casual bowler hats paired with his elegant pieces?


Anna Wintour was spotted out recently with her niece, Ellie, at the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two premiere in London. It was refreshing to see Mrs. Wintour take a much deserved day off, and I think I even detect a hint of a smile behind her signature shades.

What wasn't as pleasing? That green dress Vogue's editor-in-chief donned to the premiere. Lovely silhouette, but the print in that shade of green was a pass for me! I loved her niece's styling though, from her fun, voluminous curls to the metallic, constructed dress.



In other news, Wintour appears to be doing a number of other things right, when it comes to her day job at the fashion mag. According to an Adweek article, Vogue's newsstand sales are up nearly 16 percent from last year's average in the first half. Harper's Bazaar and Marie Clarie have started the year out with a little less steam, however, with a 21 percent decrease in newsstand sales, from last year to 2011, among their first four issues.



I'm honestly starting to believe that Elie always gets it right.

Obviously I'm a believer (look back to our fave award show dresses), but who could turn an eye from the enchanting creations at the Elie Saab fall 2011 couture show? Showcasing a number of detail-driven gowns from nude tones to midnight blue, this line was a win.

Here are a couple more of my fave looks, below.

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Alexander McQueen Military Skull Clutch

The box clutch has clearly become a cult classic for Alexander McQueen.  There are so many different variations, it's actually difficult to keep up.  For the most part, I haven't been blown away by any of the recent iterations, but every now and then I spot one that successfully combines McQueen's medieval aesthetic with an elegant sophistication.  I'm a sucker for the gorgeous bright red hue of this clutch.  It's such an underrated color in my opinion. After all, what else could you pair with black, white, navy, grey, or even nudes?  The smooth leather appears to be incredibly supple, and the skull clasp has been updated with red Swarovski crystal eyes as well as a a sword detail.  Continuing with the military theme, the detachable gold chain accent is finished with two sword-like embellishments.  One thing that I've always loved about box clutches is their depth.  They can easily fit your cell phone and any other bulky evening essentials, while some clutches are so slim that they're completely pointless.  Purchase at NET-A-PORTER for $1,545.          

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Beyonce's Lena Erziak 'Sean' Bag

Last week, Beyonce started Bey Mania all over again by dropping her fourth solo album. I, along with many other fans, were ecstatic for her return and rushed to Target for her exclusive deluxe edition of the album. Despite the mayhem surrounding Bey's comeback, 4 only sold 273,000 copies in its first week sales, most likely due to the flop of her first single, Run The World (Girls). Nonetheless, Mrs. Knowles-Carter looked fabulous as she made her publicity rounds. Just before putting on a secret show for her biggest fans in West London, Beyonce was spotted boarding a helicopter with her hubby. She sported a laid back casual look donning a black tank, uber cute shorts, and furry Uggs. Bey accessorized with a pair of 50's style periwinkle sunglasses and a trendy zebra print bag by Lena Erziak. The Sean Bag features a gorgeous pony-hair exterior, leather double handles, and gold hardware. There is also an external zipper for easy access to your iPhone or favorite shade of lipgloss. This oversized satchel is a great piece to enliven a simple outfit. Lena Erziak bags, however, are hard to come by. You can only find the Sean Bag at select boutiques, retailing for $858.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Beyonce has officially taken leotards to a whole new level. During her Good Morning America performance in Central Park, Sasha Fierce showed up wearing a perforated long-sleeved bright yellow leotard with a fringed skirt, embodying her inner Tina Turner and looking like an upscale cocktail waitress. Not everyone could get away with this look but Bey is always willing to take risks. Did Bey work this leotard, or does the "B" really stand for Big Bird?

Italian Vogue editor, Franca Sozzani recently made a bold statement. According to Sozzani, she is not a fan of male fashionistas. "I dislike men in fashion. I don't like it when a man dresses as a fashionista. I don't think it's attractive at all. Women in fashion, on the other hand, are very attractive. Women can always make you dream." Does anyone else agree with Sozzani? Or are her comments a bit sexist?

While preparing for the welcome of her fourth child (and first daughter), Victoria Beckham has revealed her plans to start a second clothing line, Victoria by Victoria Beckham, which will range from $550 to $900. May sound a little steep but this is a bargain compared to her primary line, where a simple cap-sleeve nude sheath dress will run you $1,435 via NET-A-PORTER.COM. And since Mrs. Beckham doesn't put anything in her collections that she wouldn't wear herself, we'll have the opportunity to look flawless for less. Where do I sign up? FYI - Victoria has also denied the rumors of her posing nude and pregnant for Vogue. "I'm not really one of those people that likes to go out and pose and flaunt being pregnant... not like there's anything wrong in that. I'm so proud to be pregnant and I feel so blessed and so happy, I really do. But I'm just not that kind of person. So no, I won't be taking my clothes off. I don't think anyone needs to see that, other than my husband. Absolutely not."

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