The "Essential" Handbag

Speaking of Chanel, I was quite concerned when I came across the 2009 Spring/Summer Essential Bag. Nearly identical in appearance to a Chanel paper gift bag, my first thought was, this must be another one of crazy Karl’s practical jokes. Or perhaps Karl did in fact create a recession line inspired by consumer’s high hopes for lower prices. Two excellent theories, unfortunately both proven wrong.

Although the bag is constructed out of smooth calfskin leather, there is nothing that could justify it's price; ranging from  $1525 - $2995. While I find the design of a glorified shopping bag to be less than desirable and even less resourceful, I would be able to justify such intentions if the price was right. We are currently living in a time where luxury items have stepped down tremendously, but here is a handbag being introduced that proudly announces its price to the world. As if Sir Karl's inspiration at 331 Rue Cambon in Paris would make up for its lack of innovation, and creativity, all while defending its price tag. Considering most people could never afford to drop 3,000 on a handbag in their lifetime, the fact that those who can, may go out and spend a small fortune on something that looks like it could have come free with a purchase, is nothing short of disturbing. 

Fresh New Face: Lily Allen

Karl Lagerfeld recently hand picked British pop star Lily Allen to be the fresh new face of the  Chanel Fall/Winter 09' advertising campaign. Lagerfeld said he chose Allen because, “She’s fun!” While I too, love Lily Allen, the fact that Karl Lagerfeld is going for a young and fun girl poses a question. Is he trying to target a younger demographic? And if so, is he going to target the younger demographics wallet? Karl previously mentioned in earlier statements that he has no interest in altering any of his prices due to the economic decline. Hence, I would find it to be greatly improbable that the most arrogant man on the planet is capable of having a change of heart. 

The Clutch Companion

The fact that I worship Marc Jacobs, is no news to many. My obsession started shortly after I received my very first Marc Jacobs bag as a gift from my mom. At the time, I did not even know who Marc Jacobs was, and I cannot say I was instantly intrigued by the silver buckle hardware. When you're fifteen if the designer wasn't Gucci, Fendi, or Prada, it was not cool. Unbeknownst to me, this bag would be the first of several Marc bags, and not long after I would discover his clothes, shoes, and accessories. Needless to say it has been a love affair ever since, and these three eye catching clutches are no exception. 

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Airliner Clutch

2. Marc Jacobs Oversized Love Story Clutch

3. Marc Jacobs Eugenie Glitter Stud Clutch

Lately, oversized handbags have been scaling down with the oversized clutch coming in and taking over center stage. The age when clutches existed exclusively in the evening is long over, so you can kiss those days goodbye. The oversized clutch has been spotted all over the runway this season, stealing the show. It's versatile in the fact it can be worn day into night, and it is a chic alternative to avoid lugging around ten million things you don't need. I am not sure why, but everything I own seems to end up in my bag; and the bigger it gets the more useless, random things I have in it. After carrying massive handbags for so long, it is certainly refreshing to have another option. These three fun, flirty, and utterly charming designs are the ideal accessory to any outfit. Especially for all those glorious times when all you need is your cell phone, keys, lip gloss, ID, and a credit card. Well, surprise, surprise, Marc Jacobs does it again. I think it is possible to have a love affair that will last forever, as long as it’s with him.

House of Marc

Already a legend in the fashion world, Marc Jacobs is as distinctive as any designer could hope to be, and it shows in his tribal-inspired 2009 Spring Collection. Jacob's pursued his dream of creation at the Parsons School of Art and Design in New York, where he displayed a unique talent from the very beginning. In 1986 he designed his very first collection for the Marc Jacobs Label. He then went on to open the first Marc Jacobs freestanding store on Mercer Street in New York’s Soho district, which still stands.

In 2001, he launched his diffusion line Marc by Marc Jacobs, and it was an instant phenomenon. Never afraid to push the envelope, Marc Jacobs has come to be the deciding factor of super-cool in the fashion world, capturing a following of celebrities, that is simply too long to list. Both Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs, are considered to be some of the most desirable high- end merchandise on the market.  Along with some of the most legendary designers like Chanel, Gucci, Christian Dior, Roberto Cavalli, Valentino, and Versace; Jacobs is climbing the ranks as one of the most influential designers of all time. Currently engaged to Brazilian advertising executive Lorenzo Martone, Jacobs was placed eighth in "Out" magazines list of “50 Most Powerful Gay Men and Women in America.” His creations are sold online at Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Nordstrom, NET-A-PORTER, theOutnet, YOOX, eLUXURY, and select boutiques worldwide. 

Peace, Love and Anna Sui

There is no doubt in my mind, that the Anna Sui Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear Collection, will take you on a creative journey that is unparalleled in the world of fashion.  Somewhere in between her imaginative patterns, rich prints, flamboyant colors, and intrinsic embroidery, I was captivated. Her devotion to detail is apparent in every way, with each piece inherently unique. She truly outdid herself this year. This entire collection blew me away in more ways than one.

Anna Sui, who is originally known to mix dark Victorian, dolly girl, rock 'n' roll styles, while maintaing the balance between classic vintage charm and pop-culture gloss.  Infamous for her signature magnetic colors and eclectic energy, The New York Times magazine named her a designer who “never panders". Whether Anna's inspiration is Victorian cowboys, Warhol superstars, Astrological fantasies, or Spanish textiles,  her depth of cultural knowledge is evident. 

Anna Sui is right up there with cult classics like Marc Jacobs for me. Rarely would I ever say I'd do a clean sweep of an entire collection from any designer (even the brilliant and talented Marc Jacobs) but this collection was exceptionally remarkable. The boundless energy and creative ingenuity of her runway presentations will forever make her shows a highlight at New York Fashion Week. Her inspiring collection is available online at  NET-A-PORTER, Shopbop, Nordstrom, and select Anna Sui boutiques worldwide. And following her own inspiration, Anna  will continue to inspire. I know she has deeply inspired me. 

Making a Statement

Make a statement this spring with this Marni inspired necklace By Malene Birger. The statement necklace is all over the runway this season, replacing the function of an accessory with the foundation for an outfit. Think of the statement necklace as a piece that will bring your outfit to life. Instead of adding accessories to make an outfit, the statement piece is your outfit. The whole concept is a hell of a lot easier if you ask me, which is precisely what makes this trend so fabulous. Whether you want to reinvent a simple black dress, or jeans and a tee, the statement accessory will work to turn heads, and give any basic look the appropriate edge it is missing. Available at NET-A-PORTER.com.

All the Rage: Alexander Wang

It looks like Alexander Wang's 2009 spring shoe collection, featuring the "peep-toe bootie" is all the rage this season. Wang, a former San Francisco native, has been known to incorporate his experiences and background into his collections. With this being said, it is apparent the inspiration for his current collection mirrors all the elements of street fashion. 

Af first glance, his designs reflect a fairly imperfect correspondence of ideas. However, Wang is able to transform the function of "the boot" into an alluring fashion-forward trend. The idea is basically brilliant. A peep-toe bootie that serves as a transition into spring.  As for trend wise I am totally on board. The only problem is, I have yet to been able to locate them. I originally spotted them in the Barneys  New York  spring 2009 catalogue, but when I went to check them out, they were no where to be found. 

Conclusions: Is it love? Yes. Fashion forward? Absolutely. Practical? Inconclusive. Therefore, mission Alexander Wang chain peep-toe bootie is to be continued...

Bohemian Glamour

"The idea of combining antique, eclectic looks with modern twists is unique to the label," says Matthew."I call that my creative signature."

Matthew Campbell Laurenza is an American born jewelry designer who debuted his Moroccan inspired jewelry line "M.C.L by Matthew Campbell Laurenza" sometime during the summer of 2007. His inspiration comes from his worldwide travels, and a signature to blend sterling silver, red, white, and turquoise enamel, while incorporating vibrant colored gemstones into intricate designs. The collection includes, glowing gemstone earrings, stunning lively necklaces, sparkling bold oversized rings, and glittering bangle bracelets in numerous shapes, sizes, and colors. While using a rich blend of dazzling colors, with high- quality precious and semi- precious gems, he creates each piece to be unique and more eccentric than the next.

As a lover of jewelry, gemstones, and most specifically statement pieces, it was not difficult to fall hard for his exquisite designs. I was delighted after I spotted his collection at Bergdorf Goodman sometime this December. I immediately connected to each of the ornate stylings. After speaking with the woman at the counter, she enlightened me that I'm not the only one who is experiencing a love affair for this line. The luxe department store has not been able to keep this collection in stock, having been repeatedly reordered 6 times from August to December 2008. The M.C.L collection is available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman and their sister store, Neiman Marcus nationwide. As well as other select retailers around the world. While most of his rings start at $270, prices can range from $1,570 to $2,900.

Candela NYC

Studded gladiators, where can I sign up?  In recent collections women find the Latino inspired collection to  be sophisticated, romantic, and subtly sexy. Although the looks have evolved, the natural attraction and free- spirit attitude of Candela has remained constant. Featured in fashion magazines like Lucky and InStyle, and worn by celebrities like Kate Hudson, and Lindsay Lohan, Candela is one line to watch for it's continual refinement of innovative style. Well, that was enough convincing for me. I will take the  Candela Jazz Studded Sandal in every color please! 

Bring on the Glam Rock

When it comes to keeping time, one might say I am a tad obsessed. My infatuation with watches started sometime in high school and has worsened deeply with age. I am endlessly on the lookout for unique and innovative styles, and the bigger the better. Recently I have been pining over the Glam Rock “Miami” Chronograph, which should come as no surprise. I go through watches like most people go through groceries.

The Glam Rock collections are inspired by the vivacious Miami lifestyle, and they are sold in major department stores, like Saks, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf’s, and  select jewelry stores nationwide. They feature a solid 18-karat rose-gold case cover, with materials such as sterling silver and titanium. The collections combine function and elegance, while having the luxury to match the alligator, python, lizard or leather inter-changeable straps to your individual personality. Trendy? Absolutely, but oh so desirable.

For those of you who are not currently in the market for yet another "trendy" timepiece, perhaps you'd be interested in something more traditional. When it comes to wearing watches, the options remain endless. Investment classics like Rolex, Chopard, Cartier, Bvlgari, Franck Muller, Panerai, Britling, and Patek Phillippe will forever be in style. However, if these traditional luxury names are not in your price range, I can offer you a few alternatives that may acquire the look you lust without breaking the bank. If you’re anything like me, often fantasizing about one day owing a gold Rolex Daytona, then the MICHAEL by  Micheal KORS gold Oversized Chronograph is the perfect substitute. To obtain the classic stainless style of Cartier, the Burberry Check Bracelet watch makes a lasting impression, at a fantastic price. On the other hand, if your style reveals a sportier side, Toy Watch makes a stunning gold chronograph that is both sporty and sophisticated.