Custom Design

It might be a bit early to declare box bags as a trend, but the sight of Victoria Beckham carrying one a little while back and now the appearance of fall’s Alexander Wang Tai Dopp Kit Bag make it seem as though more such bags will come out of the woodwork in the near future. Boxes certainly fit with the emerging trend of petite, streamlined, slightly retro handbags, and if you want to hop on this look before all of your friends know about it, we’ve got a few suggestions – one that plays up the bag’s grey tone, another that accents the creams and beiges.

The Bag

Alexander Wang Tai Dopp Kitt Bag – It comes in both embossed natural python and black leather, but since mixing patterns is also a fall trend, this seems like a perfect time to wade into those waters a bit and see how things go. The black version, of course, could be mixed into a wardrobe in a similar way to a large black clutch.

The closure and structure of this bag make it easily more interesting than any clutch in my closet, though, and I’m betting the same is true for you. That the short handle must be held by hand will make it unwieldy in some daytime situations, but it’s such a cool, different bag that it would be worth the tradeoff. Buy through ShopBop for $795.

Daytime – Edgy

Helmut Lang Raven Top – This silk and jersey asymmetrical top is full of color inspiration for any number of different outfits, but pairing it with neutrals in different textures allows the subtle pattern and draping to shine. The traces of cream and beige tie in with the bag, and combining the two gives you a relatively safe way to mix prints without looking like a crazy person. Buy through ShopBop for $320.

Vince Oversized Pocket Sweater – In a temperate climate or during the part of winter before it’s gotten truly cold up north, a sweater like this is absolutely key. It can go with boyfriend jeans and casual shoes or be sexed up a bit with silk and leggings, and the charcoal grey color gives the knit a bit more dimension and versatility than black would. Buy through ShopBop for $345.

Plush Liquid Faux Leather Leggings – I’m not much of a fan of fake leather in general, but in some situations, it just makes sense. Leather leggings cost hundreds of dollars and don’t have much season-to-season staying power, and this faux version is priced perfectly and isn’t too shiny to be worn during the day with a casual outfit as an interesting, textured alternative to basic black leggings. Buy through ShopBop for $70.

Elizabeth and James Coli Suede Flats – Winter is all about mixing textures, and choosing suede flats for daytime is just another way to do it. The medium grey color pulls from the greys in both the bag and shirt, and it provides some softness at the end of the leather leggings. Buy through ShopBop for $285.

Dannijo Coco Ring – For an ensemble with this many textures, jewelry can be kept to a piece or two. When wearing sweaters, I stay away from bracelets because of snagging, and earrings would compete with the huge collar. A statement ring is therefore the perfect option, and this one adds just the right amount of shine while still keeping with the mood of the clothes. Buy through ShopBop for $216.

Nighttime – Feminine

Foley + Corinna Asymmetrical Party Dress – Nude and cream tones dotted the runways for the past two seasons, and this frilly dress gives a girly look to a trend that can become boring quickly. I’d be a bit afraid to crush the frills if I sat for too long, but this is the ideal dress for standing at a bar or dancing at a club while still looking flirty and pretty. Buy through ShopBop for $390.

Anna Sui Faux Fur Cropped Jacket – Fur is noticeably huge for fall, and the always-reliable Anna Sui has created the perfect (faux!) night-out topper. It’s cropped to show off as much of your dress as possible, and the plush, glossy black fur will keep you warm and dressy-looking simultaneously. To go tough instead of glam, layer a cropped, draped leather jacket over your party frock instead of fur. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $350.

Jeffrey Campbell Clara Mesh Platform Pumps – These shoes ride the fence between pump and booty admirably, and the black suede with mesh insets will mirror the dress well once a foot is inside. The design anchors a floaty ensemble without being too heavy, and they would be a versatile nighttime option to have in your closet in case of random fabulous parties. Buy through ShopBop for $136.

Rachel Leigh Zelda Cluster Drop Earrings – Nothing accents an asymmetrical neckline like a pair of good dangly earrings, and since most necklaces don’t work with this type of dress, go for big and sparkly. This pair provides a little color variation for a very neutral outfit. Buy through ShopBop for $188.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Megs and Vlad got back yesterday from a trip to the Bahamas, and I couldn’t be more jealous of them if I tried. I just got done moving, and there’s nothing I would love more than to spend a couple of days staring at the ocean in a rum punch stupor. Someone has to hold down the handbag fort, though, so here I am.

Instead of going on vacation, I’m just going to fantasize about toting the Lanvin Suitcase Honeymoon Set to an exotic locale with a hot man in tow. That’s a suitable alternative to actually taking a trip, right?

Considering what you get with this set (a fully lined canvas carry-on suitcase, a patterned tote with an interior pocket, a matching pareo, and a set of sandals with a carrying bag) and how much Lanvin bags and shoes normally cost, the sub-$800 price point seems downright reasonable. Add a bikini and some sunglasses, and you’d barely need anything else to spend a couple days nestled in warm sand. Excuse me while I visualize. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $740.

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 ᳴ 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 can’t think of a bag that’s more versatile than a big black clutch. Add an exotic skin to the mix for a healthy dose of luxury and you’ve got a bag that can be worn day or night and year-round, no matter your age. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine how you’d work even the most basic bag into your wardrobe, however, particularly if you’re not prone toward considering a clutch (even an oversized one) to be a legitimate option for daytime use. With a little help from the Nancy Gonzalez Large Crocodile Clutch, I’m here to give you some food for thought. Or, maybe, I’m just here to make up pretty outfits. I’m comfortable with either of those options.

The Bag

The Nancy Gonzalez Large Crocodile Clutch: This should take very little explanation. Black is a hugely versatile color and an oversized clutch is a hugely useful shape to own. I for one don’t mind holding a clutch under my arm on most occasions (besides maybe shopping), and a bag like this is particularly appropriate for daytime events – an afternoon wedding, for example. Of course, it looks equally chic after dark. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1850.

Day

Acne Shy Pleated Satin Tank: The key to wearing black accessories during the summer is making sure that you include bright color and light fabrics in your outfit. This magenta top looks super chic against nearly any skin tone and would easily be office-appropriate under your favorite cardigan or blazer. The twisted strap is a subtle-yet-modern detail. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $200.
Alice + Olivia Eric Pant: Is there anything more luxurious for summer than a pair of voluminous white linen trousers? I certainly can’t think of anything. Not only are they weather-appropriate for summer, but they make bright colors pop and can be worn in a variety of situations and settings, as long as the sun is shining. Buy through ShopBop for $253.
Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti High Heels Ankle Wrap Sandals: You can’t have a pair of flowing, wide-leg pants without a proper pair of platforms to accent their shape. The wooden heel keeps the shoe summer-appropriate despite the black leather, which coordinates with the color of the clutch. These are the type of shoes that you’ll use over and over again with a thousand different outfits – they’re nearly as versatile as the featured bag. Buy through ShopBop for $620.
Lee Angel Etienne 18 Strand Necklace: I don’t care who you are, where you’re going, or what you’re wearing: a simple outfit needs statement jewelry. Unless you’re going crazy with patterns and texture, there’s not an ensemble that can’t be improved with some bling, this one included. Sure, the top and pants are very nice, but when you throw on an enormous, confident necklace like this one, the entire thing is taken to the next level. Buy through ShopBop for $155.
Alexis Bittar Large Lucite Bangle: This super modern bangle certain falls into the “statement jewelry” category, but it won’t take up as much visual space as a metal bracelet would, meaning that it won’t compete with the other giant piece of jewelry that I included in this outfit. Isn’t it nice when things work together? Buy through Bergdorf Goodman for $495.

Evening

La Petite S Asymmetric Jersey Dress: How I love this dress, let me count the way: it’s an unexpected yet gorgeous color that could work well on lots of skin colors, the asymmetrical draping is gorgeous, as is the dramatic jersey ruffle down the back, it’s long enough and cut high enough that a woman of almost any age could wear it. In short, I love it and would like to have one immediately, if not sooner. I will find an event for this dress. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1480.
Ranjana Khan Silk Petal & Bead Earrings: If you’re going to wear an asymmetrical neckline, please don’t wear a necklace that competes with or interrupts it. You’re screwing up the dress. Instead, take the opportunity to put your hair up and wear totally over-the-top earrings. They’ll attract attention up, making people more likely to notice not only your interesting neckline, but also your beautiful face. Buy through Saks for $390.
Fendi Cinderella Runway Platform Sandals: Hear me out on this whole lucite thing. I know that it makes some people think of stripper heels, but Fendi did it in such a pretty, feminine, ladylike way that I can’t help but totally adore it. They chose wisely to confine the lucite to the platform and make the heel out of a traditional material because the shoe strikes a perfect balance between pretty and sexy. In this case, the draping that makes up the body of the shoe is particularly appropriate because it reflects the structure of the dress. Buy through Saks for $1140.
Roberto Cavalli Swarovski Serpent Bracelet: The colors of this particular snake bracelet work really nicely with the green dress, but this is the sort of piece that could really go with anything: neutrals, brights, patterns. Day, night, whatever. I wear my animal cuffs more than I wear anything in my jewelry collection, and people constantly ask me where they can get something similar. Well, here you go – spread the gospel far and wide, my children. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $675.

Original post by Amanda Mull

You know how people are always trumpeting the fact that particular bags are “versatile” or perfect for “day to night?” It’s kind of a lazy fashion writer’s fall back – everyone that’s reading this is easily sharp enough to figure out that every bag can be worn with more than one outfit. So I figured, why not put my money where my mouth is? Just in time for summer, here are a few ideas for wearing the Kate Spade Folly Beach Benedicta Straw Satchel for both day and night – after all, who wants to pack a bunch of bags to take to the beach?

Daytime
1. Free People Crinkle Racer Tank Dress: I could see this light little dress thrown over a bathing suit or worn as a regular dress, and versatility is important when packing for a vacation. The pattern is fun and bohemian, plus the material is supposed to be wrinkled, making it very suitcase-friendly. Buy through ShopBop for $128.
2. Kenneth Jay Lane Multi-Layer Necklace: I’m pretty sure it freaks all of us out to travel with expensive jewelry, so now’s the perfect time to show off less pricey pieces. This necklace brings out the green in the dress’s pattern but could also be worn with a variety of other colors so that you don’t have to pack a jewelry look for every outfit. Buy through ShopBop for $80.
3. See by Chloe Flat Criss-Cross Sandals: Don’t make the mistake of being the girl that only brings towering wedges to the beach. Not only does this dress also pick up the blues in the Free People dress, but it lets you do all the walking you need (which can be a lot if you didn’t drive to your vacation spot) without asking for a piggy-back ride at he end of the day. Buy through Bloomingdale’s for $260.

Nighttime
1. Single Silk-Chiffon Leopard Print Dress: If you can’t wear a floaty, asymmetrical, red leopard print dress after dark at the beach, where can you wear one? Tropical locales were made for bright patterns that would be harder to pull off in an urban setting, and this dress is exactly that: wild and a little sexy while still being comfortable and not too skimpy. It’s a graphic statement, but the use of cream instead of graphic white gives it a slightly bohemian note that makes the dress totally work. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $315.
2. Kenneth Jay Lane Gold-Plated Bamboo Hoops: Again, leave the expensive jewelry at home. These earrings are gold-plated for those with sensitive ears and will add a touch of glamour to virtually any outfit in your suitcase. The best part, however, is the price – you don’t have to fret too badly if you lose one in the sand or forget them at the hotel. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $60.
3. Belle by Sigerson Morrison Crisscross Wedge Sandals: You don’t want to be that girl that ONLY wears enormous wedges, but if you’re going to wear a dress like this, you should still bring them. They’re dark and chunky while still being neutral and beachy, which makes them perfect to anchor a dress that has such a loud print. If they were lighter or made a smaller statement, they’d get swallowed up by the outfit. Also, the darker leather ensures that you don’t look like you wandered the mall for hours, holding up your tote bag to every pair of sandals until you found a perfect match. Repeat after me: matchy-matchy is not a good look. Buy through Saks for $240.

Voila! That’s how you get through vacation with just your tote bag. How would you wear it?

Original post by Amanda Mull

You might remember a couple months back when we talked about a new amazing partnership with high end luxury, Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine. The newest issue just hit the stands and I have to say, it keeps getting better and better. Since we are in the midst of the Holiday Season, it should be no surprise that this issue is all about extraordinary gifts, people and places. Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine continues to gather amazing articles that you need to see.

For our article, we picked three occasions during the holidays and a fabulous handbag to go with it. From a family gathering, an office party and of course New Year’s Eve, you’ve got to check out our picks and some more great photography by Vlad (see page 96).

Check out Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine!

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Happy Labor Day to all of our US readers! Labor day does not only mean a three-day-weekend but also the last holiday weekend of summer and an old stipulation that we must all put away our whites. We have all been drilled with the old custom that after Labor Day we should not wear white. Where did this tradition come from?

There are many explanations for this tradition, ranging from weather to status symbol. Some say that white clothes do not help protect against cold weather. Light summer clothing was advised to be put away after Labor Day to prepare for heavier clothing for winter. Originally, the garments that were restricted were white dress shoes and pumps. Over time, the rule began to include white clothing in general.

Another theory is that older society families were much more concerned with fashion etiquette than recent generations. They wanted to educate the new rich with rules about fashion which was intended to guide the high society. Since the 1950’s and 60’s, the steadfast rule has slipped away, as many find it outdated and refuse to follow it.

Cream and ivory has always been accepted as a winter white option and continues to be seen for fall/winter fashion lines from many major labels. Over time, the rule forbidding white clothing after Labor Day has transitioned to being an old adage, as many disregard the no white after Labor Day rule and are even applauded for wearing white after Labor Day.

For us, the rule is to be bring white into your winter wardrobe in moderation. Be aware of the materials you are wearing (for example linen is a best for tropical climates and better for summer). Overall, remember to bring in the fall/winter clothing as the seasons transition. Most importantly, wear what you want and feel comfortable wearing! Of course, there are rules of what to wear and when to wear it, but there is seemingly always exceptions to the rules.

Are you putting your whites away?

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Happy Earth Day everyone! Today we want to feature an array of eco friendly handbags. From cotton canvas to vegan, these designs are eco friendly and sure to put a smile on Mother Nature’s face. We are bringing you bags from the well-known Marc Jacobs as well as PurseBlog favorite Hayden Harnett. We also are highlighting newcomer Matt & Nat, known for their design-centric, eco friendly and vegan accessories. Make sure to get rid of your plastic bags and sport reusable totes not just for Earth Day, but as much as you can! If you run into Vlad and I today, we will be sporting our Rebecca Minkoff Bread and Wine Tote, which compliments this gorgeous weather perfectly. Happy Earth Day!!

Top row, left to right:
1. Hayden Harnett Friends of Al Eco-Tote; $27.50 via Hayden Harnett
2. Felix Rey Toys & Trinkets Eco Diaper Bag; $360 via ShopBop
3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Print Locket Pocket Big Tote $168 via ShopBop

Bottom row, left to right:
1. Matt & Nat Oversized Pleated Satchel; $350 via Nordstrom
2. Hayden Harnett Green Is Good Tote; $20.25 via Hayden Harnett
3. Nordstrom Reusable Tote; $21.95 via Nordstrom

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

From the first moment I saw the DvF Stephani Bag I knew I absolutely had to have it. This DvF bag is different from every single bag in my handbag closet. It is super large, it is super slouchy, it hangs low. It is the type of bag you would expect to see on a hipster, only it is not just intended for hipsters. This hobo gives off a rocker vibe, but there is something very goddess like about it as well. The most interesting part of this bag is the chain-link metallic leather. Upon first glance the bag may look like it is actually made of metal, but this bag features leather woven together in a way I have not seen on any other bag. I carried my new Diane von Furstenberg bag over the weekend and I am absolutely in love with it. Vlad loves it too. The bag is super oversized, but I am 5′10 so with the strap hanging low and me in flats it still hits nicely and is not dragging on the floor. I already received compliments and am sure that there are many more compliments to come. Vlad is planning to shoot this bag much more in depth, but for those of you who have been emailing me to ask about how it looks, fits, etc, I have a picture to share now (also the shot of Beyonce shows how the bag looks on). And the best news is that ShopBop is now carrying the bag! Buy through ShopBop for $995.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

I knew this bag was going to be a big hit. Totally knew it from the moment I saw it. And all of you seemed to agree, that you positively loved the new metallic slouchy bag from DvF. While I covered the medium DvF Stephanie Bag previously, the version Beyonce was spotted carrying is the large gold metallic DvF Stephanie Bag. And the Purse Blog team made sure to go out and buy the bag before it sold out completely! What I absolutely adore about this bag is that it truly is different from any other bag in my closet. It is totally oversized, really huge actually, and slouchy, and can hang low on your body (though you can adjust the shoulder straps to wear it different ways). Really, what is not to love about this bag? Spacious, comfortable, relevant, and a little metallic gleam. I know we love it, and while we wait for Vlad to shoot it we are graciously contemplating who will wear it first. I got first dibs! Buy via DvF for $995. And while the bag is out of stock online, check out your nearest DvF boutique. We lucked out at DvF Bal Harbour (305.865.1850).

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil