Fashion Blog » Handbags

One of the fun little perks of being a woman (mysteriously left out of the great Rogers and Hammerstein classic, “I Enjoy being a Girl”) is the handbag.  The bag can be practical, cute, chic, elegant and endlessly useful.  They don’t call it arm candy for nothing.   So, what’s up with this no-calorie sweet treat for summer?  Let’s talk about totes you can take to the beach and the fresh city bag, the day clutch.

Take me with you:

Why is it that a little trip to the sand and sea requires so much stuff?  Towel, book, iPod, hair clip, water and if you forget the sunscreen, boy will you be sorry.  So, how to pack it without looking like you need one of those little rolling bags people use to run over your foot in the airport?  The tote.

I really love a metallic for the beach — there is something so flashy/trashy about sliver, gold or bronze against the sand.  Look for a canvas or plastic bag with metallic highlights or even an embossed leather to help withstand the wear and tear of a beach trip.  Leave the delicate calfskin or scarf silk at home unless you don’t mind the weathered look.  I love the St. Tropez glitz of the Carlos Falchi Snake Enbossed ‘Jill’ tote ($140) found on the ever popular Bluefly.com.

May I also suggest a practical canvas tote, here in a strong pop of summer color, by Tory Burch.

Tory Burch ‘Tory’ Canvas Tote: $235

In the Clutch:

Starting up last fall, the day clutch is still a clear trend this spring/summer season.  As always with warm weather, straw makes an appearance and a summery straw clutch with a ocean theme or bright color detail makes even your work suit feel summery and fresh.

For a more seasonless look, I am still distracted by the “tough” leather clutch for day.  The contrast of a slightly rough bag with a floaty summer dress or on trend flowing pant is about as good as it gets.  And, done in forever chic black or a strong burst of color, the clutch can stay with you well into fall.  Take a look at this chain detail cheap and chic bag from Urbanoutfitters.com….

Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch: $42

….or the luxe to a fault poppy colored Lanvin on sale at Barneys.com.

Lavin Pop Chevre Clutch: $649 (was: $1,075)

These day clutches can really give you something to hold on to.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more clutch handbags and tote bags.
Discounts on Tory Burch totes and Carlos Falchi totes.

Although we are struggling through the typical June gloom here in Cali, beach season has arrived officially.  Last week I gave you my top beach essentials, this week I am narrowing it down to my top five beach bags…styles, colors and shapes that are my favorite.  I’ve become kind of obsessed with beach bags, always needing to make sure mine is functional yet stylish.  I like hauling a lot of stuff to the beach and always making sure I am prepared for this or that.  I am usually find myself thankful for bringing certain rescue products when my skin feels too dry, or my hair is knotted from swimming in the ocean.  Here are a few of my favorite bags for this summer:

This Old Navy Crossbody Hobo is a really cute style and the pattern is fun and bright and will spice up any plain old white bathing suit coverup.

Women’s Printed Crossbody Hobo in Turquoise Floral: $10.00

As much as I love bright colors and funky patterns, I am a sucker for pure white tote bags among other things.  There is just something so refreshing and chic about them. This one from J. Crew is right up my alley, and the size is good as well.

Canvas Boardwalk Oversize Tote: $59.99

Anthropologie had a slew of absolutely perfect beach bags so I couldn’t resist choosing two.  Everything was right about these two, size, pattern, shape and functionality level…

This roomy bag not only has two top handles but an embellished shoulder strap as well which makes total sense.

The Artist’s Totes bag: $68

This Santa Ana Weekender has a great shape and size, and I absolutely love the detailed paisley embroidery on it.

Santa Ana Weekender: $128

Lastly, a beach trip just wouldn’t be the same without a roomy, traditional straw bag. The Gap of course has done a classic take on one.

Structured Straw Tote: $34.99

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more beach bags.
Discounts on straw totes.

Right now, I have summer on the brain as well as my latest favorite accessory, my new dog.  She is a pretty pup, whose current hobby is to go for walks and show off.  Also, to bark loudly at other dogs while on leash, but we are working on that.  Pretty is as pretty does.

To that end, being the complete accessories hound, I am working on providing her a small wardrobe of collar and leashes to sport while taking the air around the ‘hood, dog park, or at our local outdoor and dog friendly mall.  Imagine, walking the pup and shopping for purses at the same time.  Almost as relaxing as the beach, but with a lower SPF requirement.

So for all you out there who love to accessorize till it hurts, here are two little treats I found, just for fun.  I have done some research and there are many, many great leashes and collars out there right now.  My own pooch sports a Kelly green leather leash inspired by a Hermes, one I spied on a fellow Neiman Marcus shopper’s dog years ago and never quite forgot.

For summer, may I suggest one of these charming metallic collars I found on GlamourDog.com?

Heavy Metal Collar: $23.95

Additionally, just because I can not resist the idea, how about matching your pooch’s necklace with this candy wrapper Prada bag (happily on sale!) spotted at Saks.com. Pop your (and Rover’s) metallic accessories against white jeans and walk on!

Prada Vitello Diano Tote: $1,760

Starting a new job always has its perks…one of many being the downtime in between the last day of one and the start date of another.  What the heck does this have to do with fashion?  Absolutely nothing.  Except that during one of those sweet days off while transitioning, a girl can finally take some time for herself and jet to the beach!  It may be apparent that I have not had the pleasure of any beach outings recently, but with some down time arriving I can finally allow myself to get excited for sun, sand and sea.  I have decided to this by picking out my top seven beach essentials, this was an extra fun assignment since beach-going is one of my favorite things to do…

Apparently straw fedoras will be big (again) this summer.  To ensure “non-dime-a-dozen-ness” I say pass on that trend and opt for a pretty, wide-brimmed sunhat.   Admit it, it sucks having the same hat as that girl across the street, and the one in liquor store, oh yeah…and the one sitting next to you on the sand. You catch my drift.

This J.Crew stripe beach hat ($38) in bright daffodil is pretty cute, the yellow stripe is something fresh and different for summer.

I think this summer, I am opting for a bandeau style swimsuit, although I do love the vintage glamour of this Victoria’s Secret suit…

It also comes in coral.

Retro Push-Up Triangle Top:  $58 on sale!

I will also be on the hunt for a reasonably priced straw tote to throw everything into, but until then, a brightly colored canvas one will do.

Mossimo CORE Tote Canvas in Blue: $12.99

Sunscreen is definitely necessary and this Alba Hawaiian Sun Aloe Vera Sunscreen ($5.11) smells great and isn’t greasy.  And I would be completely lost if I didn’t bring my favorite lip balm in the whole world with me.  This smell of this stuff reminds me of the beach and works like a miracle.

Blistex Daily Conditioning Treatment for Lips ($2.19) is made with cocoa butter, aloe, vitamin E and has an SPF 20 in it.

A book is essential on my beach trips. Lately I’ve had a growing fascination with the troubled and talented Zelda Fitzgerald, Save Me the Waltz is on my must-read list this summer.

There was a time in my life where I thought putting coconut oil in my ocean-wet hair was a great idea.  I foolishly thought I was luxuriously moisturizing it in the summer sun while letting it air dry, when really I was cooking it.  It took years for my hair to finally recover, and now I make sure to take a leave in conditioning spray with me instead.  This Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner ($9.95) smells so good!  Spraying this into ocean damp hair and tucking it up under your fancy sun hat is a better idea.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more wide-brimmed sunhats and bandeau style swimsuits.

Discounts on tote bags.

Yes, she is a shining star, but long before First Lady Michelle Obama paired J. Crew gloves with Isabelle Toledo, I have lived and loved the high/low.  For me, the famous ‘80’s Vogue cover showing model Michaela in a Lacroix couture top and jeans was the “aha moment.”  It was beautiful, quirky and looked like she picked the outfit herself, even if she didn’t.  So readers, go on and mix your vintage with your discount with your designer.  Now you might ask, what is so great about that other than saving a bit of cash? It’s fun, creative and gives you a look that stays true to you. Let’s break it down.

Save the Green

Well recessionistas, not too many of us are looking to spend like its 1989 these days.  So how do you cut a corner or two without loosing your fashion tiara?  Just put your money where you will get the most bang for the buck.  A brilliant pair of fresh Prada platforms or always chic Tod’s mocs?  Either will raise the level of those basic, dark wash jeans, especially the $40 ones you scored at Marshalls.  Pick your favorite piece and spotlight it, that’s the trick.

Find the Fun

Putting together an outfit is a chance to be creative on a day to day basis.  It’s more than covering up, it’s showing the world who you are in shorthand.  A mix and match takes more time, but is more satisfying than a one note look.  In fact, I don’t think the fashion bibles have spent a single issue highlighting a top to toe look since conspicuous consumption went belly up along with the stock market.  Look for a similarity in weight of material, or color family, or feeling.  Other than that, mix it up!

Down to You

The beauty of mixing the high/low is that it can help you stay away from the “I’m a Dolce ad” look you get when you put the dress, with the shoes, with the bag, with the glasses from the same source.  Not all trends will work for you and mixing designers, retailers and even seasons will help you stay focused on what looks great on you, not on what the D&G boys have out right this second.

Take a look at these pics. I picked skinny jeans from Gap.com, a 60’s vintage halter from Rustyzipper.com, a bag from Jcrew.com and Costume National flats from Saks.com.  The jeans and halter are quite inexpensive and are made even more fabulous by the sharp but not over the top “Editor” bag from J. Crew and finished with the crazy fun flats.  With a mix like this you will look cute, chic and most importantly, like you.  And isn’t that what fashion is for?

Editor Tote: $395.00

Slightly Faded Straight Leg Jeans: $69.50

 1960’s Women’s Halter Shirt: $29.50

Costume National Slingbak Flats: $560

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more slingback flats and women’s halter tops.

Discounts on women’s straight leg jeans and handbags.

As far as trends go, makeup palettes weren’t the only thing boasting bright colors this season.  Accessories are coming in electric shades of pink, green, yellow and blue…hues that are all eye catching and playful.  If your first instinct is to play it safe and pair bright accessories with plain white dresses and tees, don’t listen to it.

This is a pretty cute and bright yellow bracelet from Banana Republic…this would be so easy to wear whether you are layering it with other bracelets for an eclectic look or just wearing it solo with shorts and a fun, graphic print tank.

Banana Republic Cabochon Bracelet $39

Birds in Flight Racerback: $10.80

I also really like the Falcon Wing Tank even though and even though its only black and white, the design on it is pretty cool.

Falcon Wing Tank: $15.80

I do love these bright blue sandals…made with snakeskin printed leather, and they have a zipper detail on them that is amazing!

Pour la Victoire ‘Ella’ T-Strap Sandal:  $225

The Sabina Leather Satchel is made with butter soft leather and comes in a wide range of colors, but I was drawn to the Emperor Purple…

Sabina Leather Satchel: $198

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more bracelets and women’s tanks.
Discounts on Pour la Victoire sandals and leather satchels.

I’ve always been on the fence about designer Tory Burch.  Sometimes I like her design, sometimes I don’t.  But recently, I have begun to warm up to the blonde beauty’s keen eye for creating classic items with just a hint of bohemian flair.  Tory Burch is definitely a great example of a American designer that creates sportswear with a somewhat eclectic element–whether its through the choice of color, pattern, or cut of the clothing.  The style of the clothing and accessories is sophisticated, not neglecting the use of bright colors adorned with the label’s shiny gold trademark emblem.  Tory Burch herself, the company’s co-founder and creative director is inspired by many of the elements that surround her including photography, art, travel, as well as the work of interior designer David Hicks.

Launched in 2004, the New York based company considers itself a lifestyle concept that offers multiple, ready-to-wear products including shoes, clothing, and handbags.  Signature graphic prints, the bold use of color, and ethnic detailing are all staples that not only hard to miss, but not easily forgotten as well.  This I’m sure contributes to the booming success the company’s had the past five years–a significant look and style was established early on and stuck.  One thing that strikes me in a positive light is that Tory Burch considers itself a label that is geared towards women of all ages.  Now, many designers claim to design for women of all ages, but then when the size zero miniskirts hit the racks…it is then that one realizes the claim is merely a facade in order to gain favor with a larger target market.  Tory Burch is indeed one designer that truly does create for every woman–her mother and daughters are kept in mind. 

After many a retail gig at malls, boutiques and such, I caught on to the Tory Burch craze about two years ago.  Not quite getting it though since it looked like resort wear, but the designs are in fact more than just flowy caftans and tunics.  TB has created some beautifully cut and well tailored little dresses that are very 1960’s inspired…in a good way.  And I have seen women from 14 to 64 inquiring about and wearing the designs…especially the ever-so-popular ballet flats with signature gold hardware.  I know I recently issued a ‘yuck’ to Paris Hilton’s last season gold Tory Burch flats recently seen on her feet in the dirt polo fields at this year’s Coachella, but don’t let this fool you, I don’t think all of the designs are yuck.  In fact I think many of them are lovely which is why I chose this Tory Burch Canvas Luxe Tote as the Deal of the Day!

These bright bags are on sale now for $207, originally priced at $295.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more Tory Burch bags and canvas totes.

Yes, it’s true, sandal season is upon us…but flip flops aren’t exactly what I have in mind.  Spring is a good time to begin shopping around for fancy footwear that reveals your feet without getting too beachy.  Wedges are cool for spring fashion, and you can definitely carry them into summer when it arrives, sporting them with shorts, skirts, and jeans. I personally love the look of wedges with shorts, flowy blouses and a little jacket when it cools off in the evenings.  I would also opt for this style over traditional three-inch heels since they are going to be more comfortable and not so hard on the balls of your feet.

The Miz Mooz ‘Gizmo’ Platforms ($129.95) are one of my personal picks this week. Not only do these wedges look comfortable, but they are huarache-inspired with their tan woven leather and wooden platform.

Being obsessed with vintage inspired pieces that particularly look like they could have come from the 1970’s, my eye was instantly drawn to these shoes.  I would wear these with some cropped, fitted jeans that are cut right above the ankle.  This is a unique trend I noticed while in San Francisco, but I always wondered…how do you find pants that length?  Well the answer was simple after I began taking my jeans to a tailor to be altered.  This is a fun style for the warmer seasons if you’ve ever just been too hot to wear long jeans and kind of wanted to go for a 1950’s chic look. Try it…you’ll like it! Now, back to my remaining picks…

For months now I have been neglecting and rejecting stylish handbags, and instead resorted to hauling around a Marc Jacobs canvas tote bag instead.  As far as purpose goes, canvas totes are great, but they aren’t always very cute when you’re gettin’ dolled up for a night out.  So, I finally emptied mine out and bought a new purse.  A real purse again!  My choice was a fairly inexpensive vintage leather bag, simple with good color.  If I would’ve had a little more dough to work with I would have splurged on the L.A.M.B. ‘Darjeeling’ Small Flap Shoulder Bag, $345, Nordstrom.com

This bag is so mod! I love it. The colors and hardware are also very nautical inspired making it great for the summer months.

And now, my final personal pick for today are these stunning Stephen Dweck Agate earrings, $395, Neimanmarcus.com

These are so beautiful! They would look fantastic with a casual long dress, but I personally like wearing fancy items like this with a worn in t-shirt and jeans with some little gold ballet flats. Combining a slightly rugged look with such a delicate accessory is a fashion risk worth taking.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more women’s platform sandals.
Discounts on L.A.M.B. handbags and Stephen Dweck earrings.

Who hasn’t seen that classic fashion film Funny Face? Staring one of the all time great icons, Miss Audrey Hepburn, this movie is also well know for the line (um, actually I think there’s an entire song) “Think Pink.” In that scene, the fashion editor supposedly channeling Dianna Vreeland, commands her staff to … well I think you know where I am going with this.

At this lovely time of the year with its cotton tailed bunnies, cherry blossoms and looming tax deadlines, my fancy turns to thoughts of pink. Yes, I know some view it as a little girl color and certain shades of Pepto-Bismol or bubblegum are indeed a bit juvenile. But, for example, I don’t think anyone was thinking about 4th grade, pony-tailed shorties when Michelle Obama stormed the cover of Vogue in her silk fuchsia Jason Wu shift dress. That’s the essence of pink; it is equal parts charm and power. How very female. So readers, herewith are a few pink delicacies I plucked for your perusal, each a different shade, each with a different feel.

To begin, the orchid pink bow blouse pictured (Shopbop.com) is by Parker and as shown, can be worn with tailored shorts, or classic white jeans or a pencil skirt… so willing to please! 

Next, I lit on a classic - the Chloe Paddington bag (Saks.com), shown here in a soft rose. I love how the almost neutral shade of the bag contrasts with the tough hardware.

Finally, I hunted down a champagne pink sparkler for your wrist by rising jeweler Alexis Bittar (Chickdowntown.com). Each of these goodies could be worn to work, to go out, practically to the beach. O.k. maybe not the blouse. So now… what do you think??

Happy hunting!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more Chloe bags.
Discounts on women’s pink tops and pink jewelry.

I’m in the market for a new laptop bag and I would like it to be not only fashionable, but functional. I found this one on sale at eBags.com…

McKlein Leather Detachable-Wheeled Women’s Laptop Case: $325 Now: $184.99 on sale $147.99 TODAY ONLY!

Rolling luggage is always the best in my opinion. When you have a laptop bag like this one, you really don’t need to bother carrying a purse around the airport. You want the least amount of belongings to be searched through at the security screening. The people in line behind you will appreciate it.  Also, it’s a pretty deep red color so you can keep an eye on it.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more laptop cases and bags.