Fashion Blog

Not that I am super into leopard print or anything like that, but I do always like to check out what kind of designs are getting made out of the stuff to see whether I approve or not. Most of the time, I don’t. Leopard print is just one of those tough things that gets played out, or over done really quickly. And sometimes, I’ll even look at some cheap top made out of leopard and just sigh a sigh of, “oh no…if only this would’ve been done in another pattern…” But now I’m just starting to sound like a snob. I had some leopard pieces–several actually–because during my time at Betsey Johnson, it’s all I would ever seem to see gracing the racks. I’ve sold it all since and don’t really have any regrets about it, only because I have so many other clothes to replace it with and it was something that I had really loved at the time, but eventually outgrew. I know we all have those pieces–time to part with them you guys! Say farewell and re-sell or pass on down. Here’s a compromise, by getting rid of items like that (animal print pieces included!) you are only making room for newer, better things, or you can go out and find a more modern version of an animal print piece, and trust me, there’s a lot to choose from. One of them includes this new MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Ocelot’ Pencil Skirt: $99.50

A leopard print pencil skirt combines a bit of retro with rockabilly, yet seems refined and modern because it’s a simple cut that can be made office appropriate very easily. If you want to get “Cry-Baby” and wear this skirt with red lipstick, pumps and a pompadour–go for it.

But I would suggest pairing it with black or gold toned ballet flats and a simple crew neck tee in a solid color, a cardigan would be cute, but a cropped blazer would be better. I would wear this skirt with open toe brown strappy sandals until the weather changes, a cropped blazer, and some long gold earrings. Maybe hair back in a bun and nude lips. The trick with animal print is not to go overboard, but to compliment it with neutral shades that keep you looking chic, not oversexed and flashy. Also, pay close attention to the fabrics being used with animal print, try to go with something durable that won’t fade if you put it into the dryer.

Image Source: thevine.com, tinypic.com

It’s been a while since I did a top 5, but by popular demand I’ve got one for you today. The subject: handbags. It’s the end of the season, and stores are dying to get rid of last season’s must-haves. Why not help them out? You can find some of the chicest bags around in the sale section of almost every store right now.

Here are my faves:

La Gioe di Toscana “Sophia” Satchel, $299 (old price=$500)

I find this bag absolutely delicious! Imagine what you can do with it–it has brown and black in it! It’s also very structured with eye-popping details.

Nordstrom Animal Print Portfolio Clutch, $46.90 (old price= $158)

Generally speaking, animal prints are best in small doses. And isn’t this zebra print clutch the cutest small dose? An evening bag like this is a great way to add personality to a little black dress, and a just-wild-enough way to punch up an ensemble with color.

JCrew Panama Bag in Suede, $49 (old price= $98)

The color combination is what makes this classic bag so eye-catching and sumptuous. This is the perfect way to liven up a monochromatic outfit or perk up a dark ensemble. It also looks like it would work for day or night.

Michael by Michael Kors Chestertown Satchel, $149 (old price= $298)

Simple and chic. This is a great bag that’ll always be in season. The details are fantastic, and it falls into that special not-to-big-not-too-small category. I have a black patent leather bag, and it’s definitely earned it’s keep.

Urban Outfitters Leather Patchwork Slouch Bag, $54.99 (old price=$78)

Patchwork! It’s time to bring this style back. I think if I had this, it would become my permanent day bag–it’s so cool, calm and collected.