Custom Design

Before Vlad and I headed to NYC to find an apartment, I told everyone on Twitter that if we found a place I was going to reward myself with a new bag. I had decided it would either be a Balenciaga bag or Proenza Schouler bag. Well, hello! What was I thinking? A move to NYC is very expensive, especially when it comes down to all of the fees. So I left bag-less but with a great apartment, which was obviously the way to go.

To be completely honest, I desperately want both the PS1 and a Balenciaga City. So it was probably better not to over tempt myself. Speaking of tempting, here is the Proenza Schouler P̿ in olive green.

Military green is making a huge statement. The color is always soothing to be, the perfect pairing of green with hues of brown that gives it a very wearable coloring. The PS1 bag itself is already a little rugged chic, so olive green is a match made in heaven with this bag. Buy via Net A Porter for $1,995.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

As if I needed more reasons to adore the Proenza Schouler P̿… This video from Net-A-Porter not only gives us more looks at the bag itself but also gives us insight on the design of the bag straight from the designers themselves.

Here are some interesting facts about the Proenza Schouler PS1:

1 ) It was supposed to be the anti-”it” bag
2 ) The P̿ is like a school boys bag stripped of everything with no logos
3 ) The P̿ has never and will never be shown on the runway
4 ) The duo was looking for a low key bag that flew under the radar
5 ) This is the first bag designed by Proenza Schouler (what a hit!)
6 ) They would not create a bag until they found the perfect craftspeople in Italy to do so
7 ) Jack’s favorite version of the PS1 is brown suede (coming soon to NAP)

I was already set on buying a PS1 and now I am double set, if that is even possible. This bag is the epitome of cool and the designers behind the bag truly did not know what a major hit they would have on their hands with their now iconic PS1. Shop Proenza Schouler Bags at Net-A-Porter.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Right now there are a few things I know for certain: 1) Vlad and I just spent a week in the middle of nowhere Ohio for a family reunion with zero internet access. It was both delightful and frightful, 2) I am still obsessed with the Proenza Schouler P̿, and 3) Amanda is going to be really mad to see this post with an Ohio State logo.

You see, Amanda and I are always going back and forth about college football teams. She is an alumni of THE University of Georgia while Vlad and I are alumnus of THE Ohio State University. And we all love college football. A lot. Which brings me to this post. Right when I saw Net-A-Porter stock scarlet and grey colors of Proenza Schouler bags I jumped for joy. Why thank you NAP for not only knowing my college colors but also putting them on your site together on the same day! I appreciate it greatly.

I can’t even say much else about these Proenza Schouler PS1 bags other than I love them. The medium sized raspberry leather version is really a deep and sultry red, doesn’t look nearly as bright or light as a raspberry (I’d label it more of a wine color). The light grey large suede satchel is a nice light neutral. The bag itself truly does not even need much more dissecting from me. I have covered it and talked about it countless times. Buy Proenza Schouler bags via Net A Porter.

I must end this post with Go Bucks! What are your Alma mater colors?

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

When I can not seem to stop talking about a certain bag, it is quite evident that I want it… badly. It must be beyond evident for you all to see my love for Proenza Schouler bags, namely the highly coveted PS1. I know a two things for certain: 1) I will own a PS1 at some point and 2) I have no idea what color I want!!. The PS1 is similar to Balenciaga in that it is all about the colors. Sometimes I feel like I am awaiting a color that may never arrive, and when you ask me what color I am waiting for I actually have no idea. I just have this feeling it will come, whatever it is. But I need to learn that sometimes sticking with the basics is the way to go.

I continue to be drawn to the brown luggage colored leather Proenza Schouler PS1 and it might just be the color choice for me.

Bland you say? Well, sure, it isn’t a super invigorating color. But it is a great neutral color and a great brown color. I am very picky about the brown color family. I tend to go for black versus brown. But I am clearly craving a brown bag (remember my whole Balenciaga ordeal, follow up post to come).

Too bad about 3 days after this PS1 popped up on Net-A-Porter it was also sold out. The Proenza Schouler craze has yet to slow down. Do you think opting for a classic brown is a good way to go for the style of this bag? Buy via NAP for $1,595.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

When we wrote about Proenza Schouler’s Pre-Fall 2010 accessories collection a month ago, a lot of people were excited about the brand’s upcoming paper bag tote. (A lot of people also hated it, but hey, that happens.) It was only a matter of time before it hit stores, and as of today, it finally has.

The tote, which is made out of treated leather instead of actual paper, is now available via Net-a-Porter for $615. I’m sure that some people will complain about the price for what is a fairly simple bag, but for the size and material, it seems pretty fair to me.

If you’ve been anticipating this tote’s arrival, check it out via Net-a-Porter.

Bigger picture after the jump!

Original post by Amanda Mull

Jack and Lazaro have done it again. Proenza Schouler is quickly working its way up the ranks of luxury accessory designers, and it seems like their collection gets even more lust-worthy with every season. Resort 2011 sees the introduction of several new shapes into the line that the PS1 made famous, plus new versions of the PS2 and yummy sueded crocodile. Lots of pictures, after the jump.

Price and release information are not yet available. Images via Women’s Wear Daily.

Shop Proenza Schouler via Net-a-Porter!

Original post by Amanda Mull

Leopard print has obviously been around forever and the trend has been building for some time, but as far as handbags go, the look is about to reach critical mass. Since some people are apprehensive of the pattern and unsure of how it could fit into their wardrobes, we’ve taken the liberty of styling the Dolce & Gabbana Miss Charles Leopard Print Bag for both night and day to demonstrate leopard’s versatility.

This bag is particularly appropriate because of its petite size and mix of hardware – it can be paired with silver or gold and used night or day. Leopard provides an interesting opportunity to create visual interest through mixing textures because multiple attention-grabbing colors would compete with the pattern, and I particularly love how it looks with dark pinks and metallic touches. Details for each piece are after the jump.

The Bag

Dolce & Gabbana Miss Charles Leopard Print Bag: You can’t really have a conversation about modern leopard print without talking about Dolce & Gabbana, can you? As with most of fall’s leopard looks, this bag is made of printed haircalf, which I love to combine with other interesting textures in neutral colors, plus a pop of brightness – the pop should be bigger for nighttime looks. Buy through Nordstrom for $1550.

Casual

Burberry Prorsum Military Belted Cardigan: Cardigans can be a little boring, but this one proves itself special through lots of attention to detail – the buttoned loops at the shoulder and utilitarian pockets and belt are wonderful touches. The charcoal grey color can be worn with nearly anything during the colder months, and it tones down some of the sparkle when combined with sequins for daytime. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $795.

Diane Von Furstenberg Paragan Sequin T-Shirt: Daytime sequins are set to be big again for fall, and combining their shine with the simple, casual familiarity of a basic white tee makes them easy to incorporate in pre-cocktail hour outfits. This shirt matches the glamour level of leopard print while still remaining appropriate for casual environments. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $157.

Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Skinny Jeans: You can substitute your own favorite skinnies here, but if you’re still looking for a wear-all-the-time pair of your own, try these. The ultra dark wash hides figure flaws while ensuring that the look stays clean and tailored. Buy through ShopBop for $159.

Michael Kors Ceramic Chronograph Watch: Yeah, I admit it – I’m still not over white watches. When you have a daytime outfit that uses sequins, jewelry is best kept at a minimum, and the graphic white of this watch will stand out nicely again fall’s long, dark sleeves. Plus, it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than a Chanel J12 if you want to hop on the bandwagon a little late. Buy through Saks for $450.

Yves Saint Laurent Suede Tribute Sandals: With lots of textures going on in this outfit, these sandals are all of the bright color that you need. Plus, high heels make your legs look a mile long when combined with skinny jeans. And just look at ‘em, they’re gorgeous. These shoes are the easy part. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $995.

Dressy

Acne Lou Lou Satin Dress: I am in deep, inconvenient, all-encompassing love with this dress. This particular variety of magenta makes nearly everyone’s skin look radiant, and the bold bow belt is a brilliant, simple addition. The volume of the sleeves is like the cherry on top – wear this all fall and winter with black tights and statement shoes. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $300.

Miu Miu Glitter Platforms: Of course, if I had my way, the statement shoes that you’d choose would be these shiny, fantastic sandals. Just because they’re open-toe doesn’t mean they can’t be worn with tights, and a black background will make the gunmetal glitter all the more special. Since there’s no room in this outfit for additional bright colors or patterns, the shine makes sure that these shoes are still interesting. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $416.

Proenza Schouler Cable Cuff: This bracelet could go with nearly anything, but the modern, almost industrial lines make sure that the outfit doesn’t get too twee. You could pair it with either outfit, if you’d prefer not to wear a watch. $725, more info via ProenzaShouler.com.

Madewell Dangly Rhinestone Earrings: Costume jewelry with clear stones is a trend now, which is convenient since it goes with almost anything but doesn’t take up too much visual space. The vibrant color of the dress and bold print of the bag are enough that this outfit doesn’t require earrings that make a big statement. Buy through ShopBop for $45.

Original post by Amanda Mull

I love it when something great to write about just appears in my email right when I’m looking for ideas. That’s exactly what happened yesterday when ProenzaSchouler.com sent out an email about the Proenza Schouler Fish Print Shopping Tote – I was in the process of looking for something lovely to post, et voilà! They gave me the perfect thing. Good lookin’ out, Jack and Lazaro.

The only problem is that now I have to decide if I want to buy the tote (and it’s matching wallet). When you zoom in really close on the brand’s website, it’s clear that the jacquered fabric is gorgeous – detailed, textured, full of color. I wear a lot of black and grey, so this might be the perfect thing to compliment my wardrobe. Plus, for a brand that normally charges quite a bit for their bags, this one is downright affordable.

Other considerations aside, the vibrancy of the print is really what’s making me pay attention in this case. The blues, yellows and oranges pop wonderfully and make the fabric look truly rich, something that’s usually lacking in even the nicest of non-leather designer bags. I’ll admit that I’ve gone a bit fangirl on Proenza Schouler recently, but its their willingness to make all of their products, not just their most expensive ones, beautiful, detailed and special that makes me love them so much. Buy through Proenza Schouler for $325. If you’d rather have the wallet, it’s $125.

Original post by Amanda Mull

The Proenza Schouler PS1 bag has made a strong name for itself. With a large following, the design continues to entice fashionistas worldwide. When you have a design that does not need to be edited, the only way to spruce it up is by changing the colors and materials. That is precisely what Proenza Schouler continues to do, and with these slight changes I find myself on the edge of my seat each season seeing if the perfect color is being released.

Luckily for both me and all of you, Net-A-Porter is giving PurseBlog readers an exclusive first look at the new colors of Proenza Schouler PS1 bags coming to their store.

Net-A-Porter expects both medium and large sizes along with leather and suede options of the Proenza Schouler PS1. While each size and material will not be available in every color, there will be many options. Colors include black, merlot, light brown, navy, olive, lavender, anthracite, and embroidered.

Ok decision time. WHAT COLOR? I have been yearning for a PS1 in leather and think I am ready to take the plunge. As much as merlot sounds amazing, I realized I have many bags in that hue. Olive is great for fall, but is it best for fall and not for more seasons? And then there is the light brown, which is a classic and finishes the school bag look perfectly. You all must give me some opinions and guidance!

Once these bags hit Net-A-Porter we will be sure to alert you. Until then, you can pre-reserve the bag of your choice or get further information from the NAP Fashion Advisor team. Call +44 (0)203 471 4638 or fashionadvisor@net-a-porter.com for International and 1 800 471 9303 or fashionadvisor.usa@net-a-porter.com for USA.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

I need a new bag. It’s been quite a long time since I bought one – far too long for a person that spends eight hours a day pondering the finer points of various designer purses. I’m moving to Atlanta soon and I think that getting a grown-up clutch would be a great way to mark the transition. You see, I’ve spent the past two years taking something of a post-graduation victory lap around my college town, and when you go to college bars, a fancy clutch is kind of a dangerous thing to have.

It’s not that I was afraid it would get stolen – that would have been the least of my worries. It’s just that my usual haunts are beset by sticky floors and puddle-laden bar tops, and it seemed like there would be dozens upon dozens of ways for me to ruin a nice bag in one of them. Now that I’m going to have the opportunity to frequent some slightly classier joints, I want something a little bit more appropriate. The only problem is that I can’t decide which clutch I want. PurseBloggers, I need your assistance. For your convenience, I have created a poll.

First, the matchup: I’ve chosen two large, black clutches for reasons that I think are obvious – the color and size provide the maximum versatility, and somehow, I don’t have a big black clutch in my closet yet. Both bags will fit everything that I need to go to a nice restaurant or upscale bar, and they’d both coordinate easily with most of my wardrobe.

Let’s take a look at the contenders. First, we have the Balenciaga Envelope Clutch. We all know that I’m a big believer in the Balenciaga gospel, and it seems almost natural for me to reward myself with yet another one of their bags. This would be my fifth bag and fourth different style from the brand, although none of my Balenciagas have been black OR clutches.

And then there’s the Proenza Schouler PS1 Pouchette. Proenza is much newer to the handbag game than Balenciaga is, but I so thoroughly love the brand’s aesthetic and previous work that I’m nearly salivating at the thought of adding one of their bags to my collection. With Proenza’s profile rising every season, this might be exactly the right time to get in on the ground floor while before their bags are widely coveted.

The ultimate consideration is usually price, but both the Balenciaga and Proenza Schouler clutches are in the same ballpark. The Balenciaga (which is also slightly larger) will set you back $1025 at Balenciaga.com, Proenza is a bit more modest at $895, also via their online store.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post’s poll.

Original post by Amanda Mull