Monday, October 31, 2011

Limited Python Shopping Tote: The Skin Stays in the Picture

Zagliani has taken a funky new direction with this high-energy shopper tote. Signature ladylike? You won’t find that here, but happily the house has not veered from exotics. Winged edges and a lacquered look give this bag oodles of flair – boredom will not be an issue. Especially since the “Miku,” which is available exclusive for limited edition on Luisa Via Roma, comes in an array of three palettes. Two-tone color-blocking is in keeping with the current trend (which doesn’t seem to be going anywhere any time soon). In tonal indigo with navy and jade with emerald, you get the thrill and depth of multiple shades, with all the subtlety of a monochrome. I do love that camel with red, but it lacks the timelessness of the green and blue.Anyway you slice them, contrasting straps are a nice touch, especially on a well-sized shopper. Zagliani’s goes beyond well-sized! At 15.75″ by 15″, you are getting a whole lot of bag, half of which is python. And well you should for this price tag. Which is why I’m guessing the center panel is leather – that much more python would hike the price up quite a bit more. Good for Zagliani for making the side gusset a single piece – the luxe level stays high.Exclusively on Luisaviaroma for $2,470.

Alexander Wang, Chloé, and Wendy Nichol: The Bucket List

Bucket bags are like the hobo satchel’s rebellious cousin. Utilitarian, roomy, and daytime-oriented, but the offbeat structure throws them off for a youthful casualness. Here’s a pick of some bucket bags worth tossing around.Alexander Wang has updated his enduring “Diego” bag, now set in a luxer-than-leather calf-hair. Jet-black calf hair looks slick and slippery, giving the overtly edgy downtown style a sheen-filled twist that’s more sophisticated – and somehow, simultaneously more gothic. My only gripes? The soft calf-hair only covers the front of the bucket bag and the inner side is back to pebbled leather (although it will wear better as it rubs against your clothing, so it’s probably for the best). And by now you probably are familiar with the substantial weight of the heavily studded “Diego.”Patchwork so doesn’t look like Grandma’s quilt when it’s in serpent and python skin! Chloé’s “Gabby” bag contains a full autumnal palette in one big bucket. Shiny panels of skin (like Wang’s it’s only one-sided, with a brown calfskin panel at the back) give it an eighties feel – one that’s not overtly retro. A scooped-out zipper, opposed to a traditional drawstring, is more hobo-like, and it means it’ll sit comfortable under the arm.New York designer Wendy Nichol plays with rustic fabrics, earthy prints, and rough-edged leather. The outcome is surprisingly fresh. Her “Bullet” collaboration with Vanderhurd, using the India-based studio’s vintage handwover dhurrie textiles out of their archives, has braided straps and tassels so sleek they bring flow, not chub.Alexander Wang “Diego” Rhodium-Studded Leather and Calf-Hair Bucket Bag on Net-a-Porter for $975.Chloé “Gabby” Patchwork Python Shoulder Bag on Luisa Via Roma for $3,633.Wendy Nichol x Vanderhurd “Bullet” Bag on La Gar?onne for $885.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Top 5 Embellished Clutches: Get Your Rocks On

I love to adorn myself in chic stones – so why shouldn’t I expect my clutches to feel the same way? Sometimes we’re in minimal moods (I’m more of a sleek and simple kind of girl at the end of the day), but every once in awhile there is no denying more is more – precious stones and crystals and beads galore. Here’s a roundup of the top five be-stoned, bejeweled, and bedecked bags of the moment.1) Fendi Jeweled Stingray Clutch: Deliciously textured stingray is the skin of the moment. When Fendi does it, by setting it in an angular Art Deco shape with inverted sides, and best of all, nine semi-precious cabochons of different hues, it’s thoroughly lust-worthy. At Neiman Marcus for $4,260.2) Judith Leiber Python and Pave Crystal Clutch: Snakeskin looks like a work of art when it’s framed by lustrous ridged silver and a multitude of pave white Austrian crystals. This is strong glamour and potent, not prissy, sparkle. At Neiman Marcus for $1,695.3) Gucci “Broadway” Jeweled Clutch: Black satin clutches often have a way of feeling so antiquated (and not in a good way), but the massive, lightning bolt-like cluster of jewels embroidered on this Gucci fold-over clutch packs a razor-sharp punch. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $2,190.4) Alexander McQueen Feather-Fringe Skull Box Clutch:Calling all drama queens. Shagreen-embossed nappa leather has been decked out in all kinds of crystal stones, not to mention a theatrical dusting of feathers. A decadent gypsy of a bag. At Neiman Marcus for $2,720.5) Valentino Embellished Satin Shoulder Bag: This chain-strap clutch is as delicate as the dainty rose who will likely carry it. Covered in Strass crystals and pearls (my current jewel of choice), with intricate floral and butterfly embellishments along the frame, it ensures that your bag is more bedizened than most women. On Net-a-Porter for $4,195.

Jana Feifer vs. Céline: Two Times the Two-Tone Totes

Does Jana Feifer’s tote look oddly familiar to you? That’s because it is. Meet the look-alike of the week! Jana Feifer’s relaxed leather bag is a direct riff on Céline’s “Bi-Cabas” tote. But Céline wasn’t doing anything exactly brand-new in the first place. Simple, north-to-south, two-handled tote bags are as simple and classic as they come, and color-blocking is by no means a novel concept – we’ve taken it right out of the mod sixties.So why spend more when you can spend less? While Céline’s is albeit far more luxe, in rich lambskin with fine stitching and a more structured look (higher-quality leather will do that), but Jana Feifer’s softer, slouchier take in carefree color combinations, is equally agreeable. I say if you love the style, take advantage of this good frugal option – and save your cash for a Céline that can’t be as readily recreated, like the “Luggage Phantom.”Jana Feifer Two-Toned Leather Tote available in White/Orange, Coral/Green, and Orange/Magenta on Elyse Walker for $550.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Dolce & Gabbana Nappa With Gold Star Chain Clutch

How magical is this bag? I picture myself throwing this on my arm while running out the door wearing a hot orange cut out dress by Pency and some sexy Dolce Vita black wedges on my way to a hot date on a breezy summer night. Something about this purse seems very whimsical to me. I guess it could be the stars. You never know. The little zip and snap button closure purse has one internal pocket and is down to it’s guts with leopard print lining. The little stars dance off a delicate gold metal hardware chain. This clutch is romantic, delicate and perfect for a date night full of magic, butterflies, and lots and lots of wine.Luisa Via Roma for $859

Prada Lux Saffiano Leather Tote: In a Prada Frame of My Mind

It’s all about context. This is just a plain tote, but know it’s Prada – and just gaze at the saffiano leather – and instantly it’s welcome and desirable. It’s not just the simplicity of this dusty-rose bag that got me. It’s the center frame compartment that has me hooked. Not only does the emphatic gold hardware bring a needed firm line to a structured yet soft tote, it has a nice clasp that opens the center compartment revealing what functions like a whole other bag inside. It has the details of a clutch, making me wish it could magically detach and become its own little bag.The tote also comes in a crinkled cream nappa leather, with a more rustic texture giving this stark, rigid bag the softness it craves to be used more casually. Crinkled or not, the overall feel is still incredibly ladylike and proper, which is what we loved about classic Prada bags in the first place. My one big complaint – it’s heavy! There is a whole lot of weighty hardware on that frame, and the triple compartment adds the bulk of additional leather. Who said “lux” was light? Carry this tote and call it the lady’s way to lift weights. At Prada for $2,595.Pair with: Feel free to imbue a little tramp to your lady. With 3.1 Phillip Lim’s low ankle booties of spotted calf hair, you’ll play the part of the provocative sophisticate. 3.1 Phillip Lim “Lara” Boot, $550.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

MM6 x Opening Ceremony “3-in-1” Handbag: Size Matters

Maybe Opening Ceremony is having a good influence on Martin Margiela. I’m hot and cold with MM6 – while their sweatshirt satchel was indisputably bad, this three-times-the action tote makes sense to me. The functionality is mind-blowing. Different bags varying in size layered atop each other (they have all your basic bag dimensions covered) looks like a Russian nesting doll, but the front pouches detach! The proportions are right-on and the symmetry totally works.Use the tote totally separately for simplicity; toss the baby in the big bag and use it as a wallet; or when you’re dashing to dinner at the end of the workday, take the medium pouch as a wristlet. The only potential problem is the exposed hardware, if you decide to use the tote sans mini-bags. Although, maybe if you didn’t know the pouches used to be there, one might think the snap-studs are intentional details. And besides, it’s Margiela – anything goes! (Except for bags that look like lazy-day clothes.) On ShopBop for $695.Pair with: A tailored yet billowing cape will compliment the sharp layered lines of this smartly executed bag. DKNY’s chic leather-trimmed version has the same feel of function and fun. DKNY Twill Cape with Leather Trim, $895.

Marchesa Resort 2012 Collection: The Roaring Clutches

The much-fabled Marchesa Luisa Casati was a glamorous Italian eccentric of the early 20th?century. She donned live snakes as necklaces, strutted with cheetahs on diamond-encrusted leashes, and adored jewels and decadence, to say the least. It is only natural that the couture house named after her would produce a Resort collection of bags, heavy on opulence, gemstones, and animal prints, that are essentially jewels.Inspired by the French Riviera’s fresh sea air and Slim Aaron’s glamorous photography book,?A Place in the Sun,?the luster-heavy collection is bursting with hand-beading, inlaid crystals, and embroidery in shimmering skins, bold leopard, and shiny tortoise-shell. Such combinations exude Roaring Twenties charm. The collection also heralds designers Georgina Chapman’s and Keren Craig’s foray into the envelope clutch, set in a generous size that’s sure to get noticed.The crystal clasps top off the delicately beaded bags beautifully; the hand-woven metal straps (on their signature clutch), and slinky tassels are flirty touches; and the turquoise-beaded square clutch has a true twenties feel, perfect for Marchesa’s fringe-y gowns. Just keep the rest of the look simple when carrying these jewels! Not only do they match Marchesa’s unapologetically feminine and delightfully frothy sensibility, they match their namesake’s indulgent approach to life.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Stéphanie Césaire “Karl” Bag: La Parisienne

A large asymmetrical exterior pocket, hanging open with such nonchalance and revealing a lining of plushy lamb velours: this says it all. Stéphanie Césaire delivers pure Parisian casual-luxe, with bags made in where else but France. Shiny distressed calfskin is rugged in brown and eye-catching in khaki (more of a tweaked green shade); bull-grained black leather is subtle and supple (all lined with laid-back cotton twill).The “Karl” is a daily bag that is so easy and effortless it wouldn’t be right for anyone else but the girl who never tries too hard and does not pay attention to trends. That’s because she sets trends unwittingly. These hearty leathers boast unique irregularities and the bag’s hook is made from horns, for a rustic twist – perfect for the natural woman who is heavy on character and proud of her quirks. At Stéphanie Césaire for $1,140. If you are in Italy or Switzerland, email?the Milan showroom “Tres Chic” +39-335-52-39-318 for further information!Pair with: A floral dress and ruched boots a la Charlotte Gainsbourg, a quintessential French fashion icon. For a variation, Isabel Marant’s Navajo-print “Jews” dress is a fresh take on the traditional floral frock and A.P.C.’s suede ankle boots are perfectly proportional.

Miu Miu Wool-Felt Tote: I’m Feeling It

Enchanting exotics, luscious leathers: sure, I’m obsessed, but they can only take you so far. Sometimes you feel something more pitch-perfect in respect to the upcoming season, and I’m smitten with this Miu Miu handbag for fall. A ladylike frame countered with luxurious dark gray wool-felt is exactly what I want at the moment, setting me on an elegant track for September.A flat and slender tote with a pin-thin handle – this is a nod to the 1940s when women didn’t carry much more than a lipstick and compact. (And it’s happily modern enough to fit an iPhone or two.) Miu Miu has picked up on the retro trend, and I’m so excited to announce glamour is back! Of course, I’m not saying this tote could be found in some couture vintage shop. With the tactile surprise of puffy fabric, it’s got a directional spin. It gets better: lined in nude leather, the interior is grown-up and gorgeous. Truly timeless and totally touchable. Katherine Hepburn would be envious. On Net-a-Porter for $1,350.Pair with: Warm up to the plush stuff and wrap Donna Karan’ yummy shearling scarf around your neck. Glamorous and chunky, it will update any jacket or coat, just in time to carry a wool-felt purse. Donna Karan Shearling Scarf, $1,295.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Dareen Hakim V Collection: Exclusive 20% Off for Bag Snobs

I’m the biggest Dareen Hakim fan and it’s obvious why. She has the creative vision to come up with fantastically original bags. Just when it seems that every variation has been exhausted, she comes up with this V Collection. The V Clutch looks like it has wings and when you take it out at night, it will attract more attention than if your clutch actually took flight. Talk about a statement piece!The V Tote is unique but incredibly functional.? The cutout of the V sits perfectly under your arm and the straps mold and conform to your shoulder.? I am in love with the green with contrasting metallic straps, it is amazingly cool and chic.? This is a tote you can use everyday, yet the style just shouts extraordinary.Because of my enthusiasm for these styles, Dareen Hakim is extending an exclusive offer to Bag Snob readers!? Beginning today, August 22nd, you will be able purchase these bags at their pre-sale for 20% off.? The offer is good for the week (August 23 – August 28).? Use Promo Code DH4BAGSNOB.? The retail price on the V Clutch is $385 ($308 with discount) and V Tote is $545 ($436 with discount).? Order yours today!!? The bag will ship in early October.

Alexander Wang Metallic Top-Handle Bag: Go, Greased Lightning

You know the silly cliché that women are attracted to shiny objects? (Can you really blame us, anyway?!) With my eyes glued to Alexander Wang‘s scintillating new “Rafael” bag, I really can’t argue. Mirrored metallic leather in slick silver has the visual intensity of a lightning bolt, though far more soothing. I love the exaggerated zippers – the definitive hardware is a clever play on the heavy-metal tonality. Just lose the rabbit tails, which clutter up an otherwise sleek, sexy number of a bag with unnecessary fluff.I can almost see my reflection in the high-shine leather, which in keeping with the cosmetic case shape. The configuration is kind of cool as a shoulder bag – the casual style works with the juxtaposition of high-glamour leather. But I’ll be more likely to use the “Rafael” with just the top handle – grasping it like a clutch, for a super-cute day to night transition. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $725.Pair with: This is just the punctuation an all-black ensemble needs for a look that is neutral with a twist. Maison Martin Margiela is always a thoroughly modern pick – this maxi tank dress, with flashes of fishnet, is a restrained choice to set off unrestrained shine. On Ssense for $486 (from $695).

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Back-to-School Bags: Making the Grade

I can not recall ever owning a backpack, I used messenger style Hello Kitty book bags until I was allowed to carry a purse in the 6th grade.? I remember walking through the halls in the 6th grade with my (heavy) books in hands, proudly swinging my bag on my shoulder even though my arms felt like they were gonna fall off from the 10 pounds of books.? Mind you, those bags were only Ocean Pacific nylon bags worn with checkered Vans (we weren’t as sophisticated 6th graders today!) but I loved them!? By high school I was given my first designer bag (Gucci, if you must know, with a matching wallet – so ‘80s!) and the rest, as they say, is history.This morning, Ellen Lange tweeted me to give back-to-school bag suggestions for her teenage girls ($100 or less). That is quite the challenge as many of you know, but I managed to find a few that not only fit the budget but also the books! See below for my picks:Under $100:Simply Vera Vera Wang Yves Crinkled Pleated Tote: I love this dark denim pleated tote! Perfect with jeans and there’s the cute pleating detail. Plus, the option of shoulder/crossbody if you’re petite and strap or handle for Friday night football games. Measurements of 11 1/4″H x 18″W mean it will fit your notebooks plus books. But best part is the divided interior to keep your math papers organized! On sale at Kohl’s for $59.95 (from $109).Simply Vera Vera Wang Mohawk Satchel: This bag is huge, but sometimes a girl has to bring a change of clothes for after cheerleading practice! Olive is a good color for high schoolers –very neutral and goes with most highlighter pens in case of stains. On sale at Kohl’s for $54.45 (from $99).Simply Vera Vera Wang Schooldaze Cross-Body Handbag: This bag is called the “Schooldaze,” so it’s pretty obvious who Vera had in mind when she designed it. Right at 8×12, notebook papers and folders should fit snugly. On sale at Kohl’s for $43.45 (from $79).Now should you not have a budget and a large allowance from mom and dad, may I suggest the following? Enjoy and have a great school year!Over $100:Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Backpack. This is such a great school bag!? It is one backpack I wouldn’t have minded carrying in school.? When you’re not lugging books, you can use the top handle for that nonchalant look.? On ShopBop for $458.Sonia Rykiel Ligne Penelope Messenger Bag.? Messengers are most convenient in my opinion and the nylon will be easy to clean.? On ShopBop for $370.DKNY Leather Biker-Style Shopper.? This is very fancy, probably best for college snobs but it fits a MacBook so in my book, it’s a school bag.? On Net-a-Porter for $425.

Paco Rabanne x Comme des Gar Reissue: Back on the Chain Gang

I am so excited about the re-launch of the house of Paco Rabanne. The mere name gives me a thrill. The first stage of this massive comeback is a collaboration with Rei Kawakubu of Comme des Gar?ons: a reissue of Rabanne’s iconic chain-metal handbag, “le69,” from – when else? – 1969. His heavy-metal designs were futuristic then (it makes sense to hear he did the costumes for “Babarella”) and they are still impossibly edgy today. Blame it on my own rebellious teenage years, but this chain link bag collection brings to mind my secret obsession with chain mail. I just can’t get enough of these chains, and that shouldn’t be a problem – there are nine mind-blowing options to choose from: steel, natural horn, stingray leather, warm brown vegetable-dyed leather, matte wine-colored suede, powder pink suede, black rubber, perspex, and aluminum. For me, there’s no debate: aluminum, please! All I’m missing is one of these dresses. Let’s get the rest of that re-launch going, pronto! At Barneys New York in Brown, Wine, Pink Powder, and SilverPair with: It’s not a Jane Birkin- or Audrey Hepburn-worthy original, but Sass & Bide’s “Higher Ground” dress, a scoop-neck mini with allover embellishments of silver, gold, and clear beads, rhinestones, and studs will still bring out your inner bad-girl space goddess. On Ssense for $1,172.50.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Jil Sander Two-Tone Leather Clutch and Textured Leather Pyramid Clutch

If only everyone could grasp color-blocking the way Jil Sander does. Highbrow and conceptual, yet still appealing to the senses and powerful on the eyes – I love their understated interpretations of the biggest fashion trend of the year. How often do you use words like “minimalist” and “chic” to describe color-blocked bags, let alone ones this dynamically bright? That’s because Jil Sander understands you don’t need a whole spectrum of shades to pack an energizing punch (and you also don’t even need to spend close to $1K!). Our lovely bags shouldn’t resemble a bag of Skittles or a pack of Fruit Stripe gum. Or even a mini-box of Crayola crayons.Just look to their two-tone leather clutch – using only two contrasts colors, in lieu of every color in the rainbow, the look has a higher impact, and it’s further refined with the contrast of a sleek white strap. The same goes for the pyramid clutch – such a juicy lemon hue doesn’t need visual accompaniment when it’s set on a quirky shape. When it comes to colorblocking for the new season, brighter might still be better but less is definitely more.Two-Tone Leather Clutch on Net-a-Porter for $750.Textured-Leather Pyramid Clutch on Net-a-Porter for $500.

Kelly Wearstler Fashion Week Giveaway

Kelly Wearstler introduces a clutch that is as bold and dramatic as the interior designs she is known for.? She designed the?Viceroy in Santa Monica (I’m a regular because I love the space so much!!), Palm Springs, Miami and Anguilla, as well as the Tides in Miami Beach.? She will be debuting her bag collection at Bergdorf Goodman where she already has a namesake collection of decorative home accessories and furniture.? As with her interior design aesthetic, this embroidered clutch with pyrite clasp mixes an old world feel with modern details for an infused look that is genuinely unique.? The oversized pyrite clasp would be enough of a focal point on its own, the craters and sparkles look like a meteor that has just fallen out of the sky but add that on top of a lambskin lapis body with irregular embroidery and you’ve got yourself a statement piece that speaks volumes to personal style.? No wonder, since Kelly Wearstler was voted as one of this year’s best dressed by Vogue for her distinctive personal style.So what can be a better or more appropriate giveaway for September to celebrate Fashion Week than this Embroidered Clutch with Pyrite, worth $895 as well as her signature home accessories piece, the Brass Double Hand Sculpture to properly display your clutch, worth $1295 for a total prize value of $2190.? The clutch will be available at Kellywearstler on 9/22 but you will be the first to have one of your own from us!? To enter, sign up to receive our weekly newsletters.? If you already receive our newsletter, you must do so again in order to qualify for this giveaway.? One entry per person please.? US residents only.? Giveaway ends on Sept. 30 at 11:59 EST.? We will choose a winner via a random computer drawing on Oct. 1, 2011.? Good Luck!!ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Web Snob September 9, 2011

Please join Shoe Snob‘s Tina Craig, who is hosting a very special event at Bergdorf Goodman this Saturday, to unveil Valentino’s couture boot collection! Please join her from 2-3pm on September 10th in the newly expanded Bergdorfs shoe salon (aka the happiest place on earth!). Fall 2011 Breakdown: How to Channel the Swinging ’60s at FabSugar.This Lip Heal and Seal at Beauty Snob claims it can protect your lips, heal dry cracked lips and give you a shiny finish. Seems a lot to ask but look again and you will discover that this ingenious tube has a tube within the tube so you are actually dispensing 2 separate products with one squeeze!The Sugarbooger feeding collection at Tot Snob is your basic melamine bowls, plates and cups but the sippy cups and the bowls have a very smart feature – the cup has an easy top meant for teaching your tot to transition to regular cups – and the cup is a regular cup when the top is off! So now you won’t have a cabinet full of sippy cups when they no longer use them!!Shopping and Info loves these 5 inch ankle platform booties by Alejandro Ingelmo for Fall and Winter. These Laurent Gandini Rock N Roll earrings at Jewel Snob are gorgeous with just a dash of exoticism that cannot be pin pointed, but have an elegance that is not usually synonymous with the rock lifestyle!Cold Weather Gear: Puts the Win in Winter at Couture Snob!

Jason Wu Spring 2012 Collection: Graphic Designer

Photo Credit: Style What is the perfect counterpoint to Jason Wu’s high-personality yet suavely subtle Spring collection? To the voluminous asymmetrical hemline skirts (short in the front, long in the back is the look of the moment and the future), very-hot hot pants, ladylike-goes-futuristic flower-petal print (a collaboration with graffiti artist KAWS), flared, bow-cinched dresses and peplum tops? The graphic contrasts of deeply sleek handbags, of course.Wu knows bags and more specifically, he knows skins and how to use them. Heavily saturated and almost painterly blue and green painted python clutches made for snob satisfaction. An oversized flap-front clutch, with chain-strap for a necessary shoulder option, and a smart little shoulder bag in cotton-candy pink made my head dance with fantasies of spring. Rarely is the color pink so sophisticated! However, my favorite of the collection is the most unexpected in the batch: a leather handbag in a photonegative floral print, a frisky match for the patterned clothes. Innovation, creativity, and the permission to not take life too seriously – Wu is showing it all.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Marc Jacobs Spring 2012 Collection: Show Biz, Plain and Simple

Buttons? Why, yes please. Bright red patent leather? I thought you’d never ask. This bag may not be on everyone’s favorites list, but it sure is on mine. The Milly Sophia Resin-Chain Bag is just plain fun. It comes in crimson (pictured), black and chocolate and has a chain shoulder strap that weaves through the top flap. This bag just reminds me of back to school time. The buttons, the newsie shape, the large flap, even the side pocket makes me want to throw some pencils in it and skip off to my first day of….. class. And when I say class, I mean study hall. This bag would be perfect for those first chilly fall days when you want to be in something snuggly. Grab this fall favorite, throw on some DSQUARED2 soft dark jeans and a Son of John braid sweater, grab a pumpkin spice latte and soak up the season. Bergdorf’s for $395.

With flair more theater than fashion show, Marc Jacobs revealed his Spring collection –and the grand finale of New York Fashion Week. After taking in the incredible stage laying the scene at the show, I realized why it was moved from its usual Monday-night slot to Thursday evening. The set, wooden beams and floor, was done up like an old country dance hall and the girls were positioned in chairs, some slumped casually and some with backs arched, as if they were about to break into a number from Cabaret or Sweet Charity.The elaborate show was a conspicuous contrast to the overtly simple bags. Some shoulder bags, with little more than buckled straps, border on the mundane, while thankfully some versions were kicked up in precision-cut fringes. And some resemble Loewe bags, particularly their Amazona style. Again, the references hark back to the fifties and sixties, those road-stop shades of maroon, yellow, and aqua-teal. Standing out in the sober pack were my favorites: ombre ring lizard, notably the silver with slash of blue. For all the flash and panache of the show, understatement proved to be the theme in the realm of Marc Jacobs accessories.

Oscar de la Renta Spring 2012 Collection: Take a Walk on the Wild Side

See by Chloe RTW Winter 2011 Shows Off The Best of Cold-Weather Prints & Patterns on TheFind.For Zac Posen, it’s all about the waist. Almost each one of the cocktail-ready suits and red carpet-appropriate dresses shown in his Spring 2012 collection at Couture Snob had a nipped-in waist that suggested some boning beneath the fabric. FabSugar‘s Celeb Spotting at New York Fashion Week!This month, Le Metier de Beaute will debut its skincare line at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. Like all Metier products, the Anti-Aging Treatment collection is chicly packaged in glossy black lacquered tubes and jars and Beauty Snob had a chance to review it!Online Sample Sale Round Up: Valentino, Christian Dior and More at The Budget Fashionista.If you love the lace look of Bottega Veneta‘s Lace Ankle Boots but don’t want to commit to something that is not as versatile as you’d like, consider these Alice + Olivia calfhair booties at Shoe Snob. The Fashion Spot is covering New York Fashion Week!Audi Q7: The Ultimate Mommy Snobmobile at Tot Snob!Red Carpet Fashion Awards has Kirsten Dunst In Prada & Chanel – “Melancholia” Toronto Film Festival Premiere.

This spring, Oscar’s lady has gotten a little bit…wild. That’s right. Something has gotten in to his proper girl about town, perhaps a new joie de vivre. Whatever it is, it has kinked (even slightly frizzed) her hair, tempted her to layer and keep layering on the beads, and let her gown part in a most explosive fashion. While she took a walk on the adventurous side, Pink Floyd detonated in the background and feathers, silk, and flashes of skin proved to be the focus of the day. And, gasp! She even wears white socks with her high heels!So how did Oscar, always the gentleman, keep his crochet- and ruffling-loving night owl in check? Courtesy of a finely tailored selection of bags by de la Renta’s new design team (with experience at Céline, no less). Petite structured clutches, in precious skins and metal-frames, fit neatly into models’ hands, while voluminous structured top-handles were shoved haphazardly into their hands or dangled casually. Round-meets-rectangular shoulder bags, in luxe leathers and shining crocodile, imbued Oscar’s need for true polish. He has made his point: what’s a lady without a little tramp?Dallas readers are in for a special treat. I’ll be packing these bags and taking them back to Dallas with me for a preview party on September 22nd. Please save the date!

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Mulberry Spring 2012 Collection: Good Enough to Eat

FabSugar has The 38 Sexiest Looks For Spring 2012.Good ol’ stand-by brands Estee Lauder and Vichy save the day for a Beauty Snob when a crisis beauty product-induced skin rash breaks out! Second City Style reviews Vivienne Tam’s “Beautiful, Colorful and Effortless” Zen Garden and more shows from Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring ’12. Because cashmere is a luxury that tots deserve, like these hoodies at Tot Snob.Get Snob Tina’s take on the shows at New York Fashion Week on Couture Snob!In need of a new way to integrate hot colors into your dress code? What better – and more unexpected way -than via our jewels at Jewel Snob? Shopping and Info loves these Missoni ballerina flats in the classic zigzag. Walter Steiger, newly revamped for Barneys New York, has struck a balance between fall-friendly girth and fashion-friendly cuteness and wear-ability at Shoe Snob.

How far Mulberry has come from their stand-by Bayswater bag! Not only did designer Emma Hill just present an entire ready-to-wear collection in London, turning the Claridge’s Hotel into a festive seaside pier complete with freshly scooped ice cream and puppies parading the runway, the bags were a far cry from their traditional browns and blacks. These pastry-colored bags belong in a decadent bakery! Delicious brights and sweet-as-pie pastels are hardly what I’d associate with the London based-brand but a welcome surprise.With long tulle skirts sheer enough to still show lots of leg and streaked and dyed hair, in washed-out shades that matched the bags, it remains clear that Mulberry is a brand focused on youth. Sunny, almost-acid yellow and Kelly green top-handles and hobos might be all the jolt of color your wardrobe needs come spring. Creamy pale pinks set off petite structured styles, and glossy black handbags even have a pumped-up feel. The ever-popular Alexa bag is here to stay – she’s just been doused with a generous heaping of confectionary flair.

Burberry Prorsum Spring 2012 Collection: Bailey is a Man of His Craft

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Come Spring 2012, it is time for the once-preppy and recently toughened Burberry girl to put away her metal-armored and severely spiked bags and embrace a folkloric fairy tale. For his latest collection, Christopher Bailey has sent his Londoner on a worldly adventure into the exotic east, where she developed an appreciation for deep, vivid colors (ones unusual for spring) and artisans’ craftsmanship. From morphed tartan plaid to the hand-crafted weaves, I loved these clutches and totes for their sense of human touch. Heavy on quirky texture and offbeat colors, oversized beaded clutches pack a mean punch. Wild weaves have been partially dipped in panels of python. Organic raffia and teal python have been blended for city-meets-country edge and lightly printed plaid fabric fades beneath elaborately whipstiched and buckled leather.It is all a much welcomed and creative change from the safety pins and heavy metal studs we had become accustomed to. It looks like becoming a well-traveled woman of the world suits the Burberry Brit quite nicely.Photo Credit:Vogue

Monday, October 17, 2011

The main dial for the watch is used for the chronograph

The main dial for the watch is used for the chronograph seconds hand, and has a flange (in ceramic) with indicators. There are customizable precious stones placed at the "hour indicator" spots on the flange as well. In the bottom image they are likely black diamonds or sapphires. You'll notice that the watch below and on the wrist of Mr. Claret are a bit different. This is due to the customization options the watch has. Claret prefers some white in his dark watch. So you have light colored stones around the dial, white rubber belts, and some white inserts in the crown and pusher. Looks pretty cool to me.

Another little change from the original Dual Tow to the NightEagle is the style of the tourbillon. The bridge now has Claret's double C motif. Both watches are mechanically the same, but the NightEagle has enough cosmetic changes to make it different. I have a feeling the NightEagle will cost even more than the original - especially given the hard to make sapphire bridges in the dial. At the same time, the original is available with a gold case, while the NightEagle is in titanium. Either way, the prices are massive (in the half million dollar range), so if you are eager to get involved in getting one, ten thousand dollars here, or ten thousand dollars there isn't likely going to perturb you. For me, I was excited to meet Christophe Claret and check out his new cool toy.

Christophe Claret Dual Tow NightEagle Watch

I am like the watch paparazzi sometimes. Look what I saw being worn on the wrist of Christophe Claret, the very man who created this watch, and the name on the dial. How cool is that. Master watch maker Christophe Claret waited until last year to put his name on a watch with the Dual Tow, an incredibly impressive luxury watch that I discussed here. The vast details that make this watch interesting I attempted to cover there. There is no point in my spending an hour discussing the complex features and technical merits of the Dual Tow. The watch is a monopusher chronograph with a complex planetary gear system (that you can see), a chime that goes along with pushing the button (using a hammer and gong), a tourbillon, and the time read on rubber belts. All in an amazing watch case fit for a king - and with the price that these custom made limited edition pieces go for, pretty much only fit for a king. The standard Dual Tow watches start via customization on a special website where you choose the look.

For 2010 the Dual Tow (DualTow, not ever sure about it being one or two words), gets the "NightEagle" treatment. A dark case, new style on the rubber belt indicators, and tinted sapphire bridges over the dial. Essentially, there are sapphire plates (cut to look like parts of a stealth aircraft) sandwiched over the movement and the top sapphire crystal. The bridges have a purplish tint to them, and cover most of the movement (that was exposed in the standard Dual Tow watch). Time is read in the open sections over the belts. You need to look a bit closely to read the time, bu you can understand it pretty easily as it is digital. The font on the rubber belts now looks like that on a digital LCD screen - part of Claret's vision of combing modern pieces of technology and convenience with luxury mechanical watch making.

The complex case is in PVD titanium and made to fit ergonomically on your wrist - which it does. The case is all made in-house by Claret, which is the same with the movement of course. The strap on the watch is actually leather, though it looks like rubber. Just an interesting way of finishing the leather I suppose. Attached to the strap is one of the coolest buckles you will ever see - which has some interesting ergonomic features, and the ability to have a 10mm "comfort extension." The case is large though wearable, at 42.75mm wide and 48.20mm tall. It is water resistant to 30 meters.

The most basic of the three casino games is dice

The roulette wheel spins as it is the automatic rotor, but here is a little different. The rotor has a minor stop mechanism to stop to a halt in one of the fixed positions when it loses momentum. This causes the little arrow (versus a ball) to stop at a specific spot on the roulette wheel scale. Don't miss the set green emerald on the rear of the case above 17 between the engraved "Lucky Number" statement. I guess 17 is someone's lucky number. I think the roulette wheel detailing is gorgeous, and Claret's integration of it with the automatic winding system is not only efficient, but also clever.

The roulette wheel spins as it is the automatic rotor, but here is a little different. The rotor has a minor stop mechanism to stop to a halt in one of the fixed positions when it loses momentum. This causes the little arrow (versus a ball) to stop at a specific spot on the roulette wheel scale. Don't miss the set green emerald on the rear of the case above 17 between the engraved "Lucky Number" statement. I guess 17 is someone's lucky number. I think the roulette wheel detailing is gorgeous, and Claret's integration of it with the automatic winding system is not only efficient, but also clever.