I’m Crushing on These Vintage Bags

What is it about a purse that makes me go all aflutter? I never get bored of purse shopping. Perhaps it is something about finding a transportable home for all of the things that keep my life on track – my Blackberry, wallet, calendar, lip gloss, a book / fashion mag, a pen, a notebook, a camera in case I get inspired by what someone is wearing. Those things must be with me when I’m on the go, thus they need the proper carrying case.

I’m particularly getting interested in vintage purses. They have so much personality. They also make me wonder about the woman who carried the purse prior to my use. Who was she? What did she need to haul around in order to keep things going and on track? Who did she meet up with when carrying the purse around? There is always a back story to vintage items. I like to think that some of that story rubs off on the object and becomes a part of its identity.

So, I’ve been looking at vintage purses lately. Here are some of my faves –

Such a great summertime purse!

1970′s Straw and Leather Handbag from Adrian Company Vintage ($23.00).

This 1940′s Ornate Brown Corde Clutch is from Allen Company ($98.00).

I wanted to include this 1960′s Pocketbook Full of Sunshine Wallet as an example of vintage wear that is on ModCloth ($24.99). ModCloth carries new clothing that is vintage inspired, but they also have a small vintage section on their site. I don’t know who their buyer is, but he / she has a fantastic eye. The buyer is so good, in fact, that it can be difficult to purchase items because things get sold as soon as they are listed! So, if you see something you love and it is available go ahead and make that purchase!

This purse isn’t normally my style, yet there is something about it that I find quite appealing. Maybe it’s because it looks a bit like a 1960′s Easter Basket? I found it on Rusty Zipper where you can shop for purses by decade or by style. Also, on the homepage you will find clothing in different categories including “Hippie Clothes.” Ha!

Finally, this purse is from Couture Allure Vintage Fashion (otherwise known as the store I talked about in yesterday’s post!). I can’t help but talk about them once more because of this lovely bag:

It’s a 1950′s Soure Embroidered Straw Purse ($125.00). In my mind’s eye I can picture my Grandmother carrying around a purse like this in 1950′s Miami. Here’s a close up of that romantic flower detail –

It’s chic and tells a story. Two excellent qualities when it comes to vintage!

Have you found a great vintage bag? Where did you get it? Any other online stores we should know about? If so, leave links!

Interior Decoration & Apparel

One time I was visiting my lovely friend Rian and I noticed that the outfit she had on matched her living room perfectly. The colors, design, and overall feel of the outfit blended right into her home decor aesthetic.

When clients have trouble understanding how to build an outfit based on color I often bring them paint samples. I’m especially fond of those cards that show a picture of a room and then give paint chips of all the different colors that are utilized. They give a sense of how color can make something pop.

I know that this isn’t a new blogging concept, but I wanted to take a picture of a beautiful room and turn it into an outfit. The room I’m focusing on is actually a hallway.

Picture: Elle Decor

It’s so summery, isn’t it?

Side note: I’m pretty obsessed with dogs, and I call each one I see Buttons. Because I want a dog named Buttons. So, isn’t that a great picture of Buttons? That actually might be the real reason I selected this picture.

Here is the outfit:

M Missoni Bold Stripe Chevron Dress ($695.00)

Girl, That’s Sandal-ous Sandal from ModCloth ($69.99)

This shoe represents the wooden flooring in the hall. Plus, it’s a great way to ground an outfit that has bold colors.

Thuret Earring from Chico’s ($34.00)

Just like the orange bench makes a statement in the hallway, these earrings draw out the bright color within the sundress.

Yellow Colour Block Mini Cross Body Bag from TopShop ($40.00)

I like how this bag complements the overall feel of the outfit without being too matchy-matchy. The yellow is soft, but the gray lines give it structure.

What do you think? Does the outfit draw out elements of the hallway? Do you know of any other apparel items that would evoke the feel of the room? If so, let me know!

Green with (Fashion) Envy

It’s St. Patrick’s Day, and in honor of the holiday I went in search of amazing green apparel and accessories. Here are the top 7 (because what better way to celebrate than to utilize lucky number 7?):

Number 7

The first thing that came to mind when looking for green apparel was Diane von Furstenberg’s classic wrap dress. The New Julian Wrap Dress in Desert Leaf Large is part of DVF’s Vintage Collection. The cut looks wonderful on every body type and will never go out of style.

Julian Wrap Dress in Desert Leaf Large from Diane von Furstenberg ($325.00)

Number 6

The Marilyn Convertible Dress is reminiscent of Old Hollywood and can be worn in a variety of styles including as a halter dress, dress with sleeves, skirt, and a baby doll top. I love the idea of being able to create different looks out of the same item! This particular dress works for sizes 8 through 24.

Marilyn Short Convertible Dress in Kelly Green from Monif C ($195.00)

Number 5

Number five isn’t only about green, but the citrus-print canvas is so adorable I had to include it on the list. The Falabella Fruit-Print Small Tote is by Stella McCartney and can be found at Neiman Marcus.

Falabella Fruit-Print Small Tote by Stella McCartney from Neiman Marcus ($1,265.00).

Number 4

How amazing are these cat eye sunglasses? This vintage-inspired accessory can be found at Pixie Market for just $15.00.

Color Block Cat Eye Sunglasses from Pixie Market ($15.00)

Number 3

The Spring Arthur Pant from Alice + Olivia is a great way to celebrate the change in seasons. The bright green color just screams spring!

Spring Arthur Pant by Alice + Olivia ($198.00)

Number 2

Staying within the realm of beautiful bottom pieces, check out these Candy Shop Shorts in Green Apple from ModCloth. They are a take off of the classic sailor short, but in a bright hue. Love those big, beautiful buttons on the front!

Candy Shop Shorts in Green Apple from ModCloth ($34.99)

Number 1

The number one item on our Green with (Fashion) Envy list comes from Lilly Pulitzer. Pulitzer’s clothes and accessories always feature such bright colors! The Espadrille Printed Wedge has a 4″ heel and a 1″ platform.

Picture Perfect Espadrille Printed Wedges by Lilly Pulitzer ($198.00)

What do you think of the top 7 list? Would you wear any of these items?

Pink Fashion

To Valentines or not to Valentines: that is the question! Do you struggle with how you feel about Valentine’s Day? I have a love / hate relationship with it myself. Sometimes it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to say,”I love you.” Sometimes I’m a big ball of stress about it.

All of that all being said, I do adore the color pink. Pantone named Honeysuckle the color of 2011, which may explain the influx of lovely pink accessories and wardrobe staples. Here are a few items to make sure that you look pretty in pink this Valentine’s Day:

Betsey Bowie Tote by Betsey Johnson

$348.00

Too Hot Pink to Hold ‘Em by OPI

From OPI’s Texas Collection

$7.99

Qupid Favor 39 Blush Velvet Peep Toe Ridge Back Wedges from LuLu’s

$33.00

Vintage Inspired Pink Dress from Stop Staring!

$138.00

5 Winter Boots for Men

Like much of the Northeast, DC got hit hard by winter storms yesterday. Bundling up and preparing to go out in the cold is of great importance, especially when it comes to shoes. (Have you slipped on that ice? Ouch! It’s brutal!) Here are 5 different winter boot options to get guys through the next part of winter.

1. For the Winter Sports Guy

Columbia Bugathermo Heated Boot from Nordstrom ($325)

In what has to be one of the greatest innovations ever for the winter shoe, this Columbia Bugathermo Boot is heated. Yup, it contains a heating system with rechargeable batteries. It’s also waterproof and has a temperature display on the exterior of the boot.

2. For the Urban Cowboy

John Varvatos X-Lace Boot from Neiman Marcus ($359)

This X-Lace Boot by John Varvatos has a rough and tumble feel. It’s currently on sale at Neiman Marcus for $359, down from its original $789 price tag.

3. For the Guy Who Likes to Mix it Up

Sorel Caribou Wool Boot from Zappos ($150)

The Sorel Caribou Wool Boot combines two different styles while still pulling off a cohesive look. It is also waterproof with a removable wool liner to keep your feet warm and dry.

4. For the Guy Who Likes Function and Style

Air Brandon Moc Boot by Cole Haan ($149.95)

If a boot and moccasin got together they would create the Air Brandon Moc Boot. These Cole Haan shoes contain Nike Air Technology and are leather lined.

5. For the Traditionalist

Broker Waterproof Chukkas Boot from Macy's ($115)

Who knew Hush Puppies made great shoes for grown ups? Broker Waterproof Chukkas by Hush Puppies are traditional enough to be worn at work, yet are waterproof so you can actually walk the 4 blocks to your office.