Designer Handbag Reviews At Señora Cartera

Givenchy Postino Bag

2008-07-25T12:33:00.005-04:00

Givenchy's Fall handbag collection is fabulous. Since I'm a sucker for frame top bags, I've fallen in love (hard!) with the Postino Bag. This sophisticated design comes in several sizes and finishes, but the simplicity of black leather is a winner every time. The clever top handles add a touch of youthful whimsy while the zipped frame top heralds back to the classic designs of the 40s and 50s. The medium satchel (pictured above) measures a roomy 13.5 x 16 x 5.5. There is a larger version which measures an enormous 14.5 x 19 x 6.5 for all you pack rats out there. You decide which fits your handbag needs best.

Medium size available via Barneys for $1695
Large size available via Barneys for $1895

MARC by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Grace Bag

2008-07-25T11:32:00.005-04:00

Many women search for a sturdy yet stylish handbag to carry them through the work week with little success. More often than not they end up compromising on one or the other. It can be a frustrating endeavor, but the MARC by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Grace Bag makes obtaining the ultimate chic work bag a breeze. MJ's MARC line has become the designer handbag line to fall back on when all else fails. Heck, forget about using it as a last resort. This affordable collection should be one of the first any handbag lover peruses when looking for that perfect "go-to" bag.

The stunning grape juice leather exterior, rolled top handles, polished silver-tone hardware and open top with hidden magnetic closure give this design style while the textile-lined interior featuring several pockets and a handy key ring strap provide its' functionality. Measuring 13.5 x 11.5 x 3.5, the Dr. Q Grace Bag is spacious but not overly bulky. The result is a practical work bag any fashionista would be proud to sling over her shoulder.

Available via eLUXURY for $428

Louis Vuitton Monogram Motard Afterdark Clutch

2008-07-24T17:42:00.013-04:00

Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton's artistic director, collaborated with famed American artist Richard Prince and the understated yet edgy Monogram Motard Afterdark is just one of their many standout achievements. The classic LV monogram design is re-interpreted in a velvety suede/vernis combination. Choose between gold-tone metal eyelet handles ideal for carrying the 'Afterdark' as a trendy pouchette or the fold-over top which transforms it into a clutch. Either choice will make you the chicest fashionista on the block.

The Louis Vuitton Monogram Motard Afterdark Clutch is a stunning bag. No doubt about it. Yet the question begs asking if it's worth the hefty $1860 price tag. I say ABSOLUTELY! The classic black and powder beige color options will give its' owner years of enjoyment and the monogram design never goes out of fashion. If we can pay over $4 for a gallon of gas, then we can certainly rationalize paying almost $2000 for a clutch! Well can't we?

Available via eLUXURY

An explanation is in order...

2008-07-24T13:28:00.007-04:00

So where have I been? Underneath a rock? On another planet? Lost in the handbag department at Neiman Marcus? Nothing so far-fetched or sensational, ladies. During the past 4 months I finished up a very difficult pregnancy which culminated with the birth of my 2nd son, Benjamin.

I decided to take a sabbatical to give him and his brother the attention they deserved. I wanted to apologize for not posting about my whereabouts sooner. I'm very disappointed in myself for not giving my readers ample notice, but I know you will all understand my need to "nest" for a bit before I dove back into the thick of it.

I'll be getting back to posting over the next few weeks (slowly at first, then back to my normal routine). Please check back regularly as I'll be bringing you up to speed on what's hot in the world of designer handbags. (Did I mention the nurses who took excellent care of me while I was in the maternity ward fell in love with my Balenciaga GH Hobo? I got as many compliments about my bag as I did about my newborn!!!)

Thank you all for your e-mails of concern. I am alive, doing very well and very happy to be so blessed. Now all I have to do is get back to work!

B.O.W. - Best Of The Web!

2008-03-18T19:16:00.005-04:00

Cashmere Basics Think cashmere is too expensive? Tough to maintain? Think again. Susan shares her thoughts on why every busy mom deserves a classic cashmere piece and some tips for choosing quality cashmere and keeping it clean.

Couture in the City: West Coast Style, Courtesy of LC: Lauren Conrad’s New Collection Well, there’s been some buzz behind LC’s new line for a while now…and the much anticipated runway kind of left me lukewarm. Part of me gets it, another part says that I’ve seen it all before. Check it out for yourself.

GlamSpirit: Preserve Your Youth Naturally (and Deliciously too!) Discover the secret ingredient for lasting youth....

Moms Buzz: A Summer Camp Planner to Get Organized! When Spring approaches, it basically means for moms that we need to start planning for the Summer Camps. You can now consolidate your notes into a Summer Camp Planner that Moms Buzz created for you. Download it now!

Shrimpton Couture Presents A Real Life Vintage Spot

Stiletto Jungle: Maintain Your Manicure Keep your hands in fabulous shape between manicures with these easy tips.

Stylenotes: Kohl's: 25%-50% Off Simply Vera Vera Wang Kohl's: 25%-50% Off Simply Vera Vera Wang.

Tott Snob: Little Marc Blandine Dress Little Marc has captured the perfect balance of sophisticated fashion for tots while still maintaining kid appropriate styles.

Handbag News: 2nd Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards

2008-03-18T18:55:00.011-04:00

Independent Handbag Designer Awards
Launch Bags presents THE INDEPENDENT HANDBAG DESIGNER AWARDS™
(Click here to register or purchase tickets)

Handbag Designer 101 invites you to compete in the Second Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards™, the only handbag competition of its kind in the world. Win a chance to present your handbag at a high profile New York event and compete for one of six Awards for Handbag Design Excellence, international recognition, a variety of coveted prizes and a chance to have your handbag go on a marketing press tour.

To participate in the open call, you are required to upload one digital jpeg image (please read attached tip sheet carefully) in any one or more of the following categories:
-Best Student Made Handbag
-Best Handmade Handbag
-Most Socially Responsible Handbag
-Best Green Handbag
-Audience-Selected Handbag*
-Best Handbag in Overall Style & Design

Submissions will be accepted from February 29, 2008 until April 18, 2008.

The staff of Handbag Designer 101 will review all submissions at a Prescreening Event in late April. At this Prescreening, HB101 will choose five finalists in each category who will be judged on the merits of their submitted designs. All finalists will be invited to participate in the Second Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards™ that will take place on June 18, 2008, at the New York Historical Society in New York City. (Note: Finalists or their representatives are responsible for their own transportation to the event.)

Finalists must provide the handbag shown in the photo submitted to compete at the IHDA. The finalist's handbags will be on display on the evening of the event. Over 500 members of the fashion industry, including press and retailers, will attend the Independent Handbag Designer Awards™.

A Fashion Panel of esteemed and influential handbag design experts, editors, stylists, buyers and professors will judge the designs presented and select a winner from each category who will receive the Best Handbag in each respective category and determine who truly stands out as an Independent Handbag Designer.

These finalists will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have their bags featured in a window display at Henri Bendel, and to participate in a trunk show to promote and sell their lines at the store. In addition, the winner of the Best Student-Made Handbag will receive an apprenticeship with the Henri Bendel accessory design team.

Finalists will also be able to offer their bags through Bag, Borrow Or Steal, the leading online retailer that allows women to borrow designer handbags and jewelry. Bag, Borrow Or Steal will give more women the opportunity to experience these wonderful bags and learn about the talented designers who created them.

The Winner of the Best Overall Handbag in Style and Design will have the chance to showcase their award-winning handbag collection with a free 10x10 booth (a $6,000 value) to 120,000 fashion industry influentials at the WWDMAGIC Accessories Show in Las Vegas, August 25-27, 2008.

Legendary handbag brand LEIBER will receive the IHDA ICONOCLAST Award. LEIBER has revolutionized the landscape of accessory design. Celebrating their 45th anniversary and now under the creative direction of Frank Zambrelli, LEIBER has stood the test of time and continues to earn international acclaim with their innovative handbags and accessories, and most recently "Most Prestigious Handbag" by the Luxury Institute.

Qualifications per Category:

Best Student-Made Handbag: Students who have successfully started their lines while still in school
-Currently attending high school or university
-Bags must be under student designer's own label
-Major in Design is optional

Best Handmade Handbag: Sewn, crocheted, knitted or any other material where the designer themselves is making their bag by hand or machine
-Bags must be made by you, by machine or hand
-Bags must be under designer's own label
-Mass manufacturing on any level is not acceptable

Most Socially Responsible Handbag: Bags that meet certain ethical and moral standards in regards to production, employment and philanthropy and have impacted the local culture of the country of manufacturing
-Bags must be under designer's own label
-Bags that are made where a portion of the proceeds are given back to that country of manufacturing
-Bags must be made by local communities to create jobs
-Bags that have helped improve the quality of life in the local culture in the country of manufacturing

Best Green Handbag: Bags that are made out of sustainable, recycled or organic materials
-Bags should be made from 100% organic cotton, hemp, bamboo or other raw materials, OR 100% recycled materials (could be recycled cloth, recycled soda bottles, recycled vinyl, etc.), OR one of the new corn-based fibers, or in some combination
-All components - metal zippers, buttons, clasps, snaps should be made from recycled metal or reused pieces
-The bags should be recyclable at the end of its life
-Any dyed fabric should be done with a nontoxic dye that doesn't use toxic fixing agents

Audience-Selected Handbag: *Handbag designer selected by Handbag Designer 101 and Bag, Borrow or Steal voters, based on finalists of the preliminary judging panel

Best Handbag in Overall Style & Design: Best executed handbag overall in style and design
-Bags must be under designer's own label
-Bags must be unique in their overall style and design

Deadline: All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 18, 2008.
Entries submitted without full information filled out will be disqualified.

To register proceed to the application form >>

To purchase tickets for the event click here

WE CANNOT CONFIRM RECEIPT OF ENTRIES UNTIL ALL ENTRIES HAVE BEEN PROCESSED.

Click here to view the 2007 IHDA Finalists and images from the 2007 Independent Handbag Designer Awards™

Handbag Style Of The Week: Henry Cuir Pas de Qui Tote

2008-03-18T18:29:00.010-04:00

Henry Cuir has long been known for creating classic handbag styles with artistic touches and "bohemian" flair. This winning combination is exemplified beautifully in the Pas de Qui Tote. With a criss-cross design element taking center stage, this otherwise simple white leather tote measuring 14 x 19 x 6.5 becomes a stylish choice for both urban dwellers as well as suburbanites. I jusy love it when a handbag can appeal to such a wide range of women. That's what makes the Henry Cuir Pas de Qui Tote my choice for the handbag style of the week.

Available via Barneys NY for $1795

Handbag Color Of The Week: Louis Vuitton Epi Bowling Montaigne GM in Cassis

2008-03-17T17:47:00.009-04:00

Sturdy leather, a structured shape and shiny palladium hardware make the Louis Vuitton Epi Bowling Montaigne GM a handbag collector must-have. However, it's the sumptuous Cassis color that really makes this designer handbag pop. Both the Bowling Montaigne and this new Cassis hue are stunning in their own right, but together they are pure handbag magic.

Available via eLUXURY for $1640

B.O.W. - Best Of The Web!

2008-02-27T15:15:00.004-05:00

Couture in the City: Fringe Benefits: How-to Get Celebrity Style Bangs Confession: last week I officially broke my 15-year stance against bangs and made the cut. I haven’t had bangs since I was a little girl (and those were heavily feathered to match my thick plastic glasses), so it was a hard move for me. However, I think that my bangs are super cute and love them much more than I thought I would.

Tot Snob: Erica Tanov for Hip Little Boys Casual clothes for little boys... (finally something besides navy and khaki)! Mom's, you can dress your little men in clothes that they will love, and so will you!

GlamSpirit: This Beats the Exercise Ball Here's a little post to brighten your day. Ellen Degeneres demonstrates the "Hawaiian Chair"--more than just an abs workout while sitting at your desk.

Moms Buzz: Bleach Myths about Fabric Safety & Bleaching Doing laundry is one of our most time-consuming home chores, and when it comes to bleaching we always have our doubts and concerns about it. Read what Dr. Laundry has to say about this.

Shrimpton Couture Shows Us Who Wore Vintage to The Oscars There is always a smart starlet who knows vintage is the way to go. Can you guess which fabulous girl wore a 1970's frock?

Stiletto Jungle: Sale Find - C&C California "Wrangler" Tees 50% Off Even for the fashion obsessed, paying $50 for a plain tee can be painful. With this hot deal you can score classic C&C tees for the same price as a tee shirt from Gap.

Stylenotes: Oscar-Worthy Dresses -- Red Carpet Style for Less We were inspired by the Oscars to find dresses that emulate those worn by the stars, but don't come anywhere near them in terms of price. Here's our picks for how to look red carpet ready, even if your just going to a friend's wedding!

New Arrivals Alert: Badgley Mischka Platinum Label Patent Messenger Bag

2008-02-27T14:37:00.011-05:00

It was just a little over six months ago that the design duo of Mark Badgley and James Mischka announced the launch of a new day bag collection set to debut Spring 2008. Fast forward to today and the collection is slowing trickling into high-end department stores at promised affordable prices. Since I'm a mom who appreciates a chic, stylish bag that facilitates my endless list of daily chores, I'm picking the Patent Messenger Bag as the best of Badgley Mischka's Platinum Label collection.

This patent agata leather bag features a practical 20" drop adjustable shoulder strap, extended flap closure with BM's signature Platinum Label circular accent piece and maintenance-free nylon interior with zip, cell phone and key pockets. This design, measuring 11.5 x 12.5 x 4, is an on-the-go mom's dream. If you factor in the bag's delicious current (burnt orange) color, then you'll realize Badgley Mischka's Platinum Label Patent Messenger Bag will serve you well year-round. For $365 via Saks, what more could you ask for?

Weekly Fashion Blog Bazaar

2008-02-25T18:20:00.004-05:00

Call of the Wild Go wild with Old Navy's New Spring Collection at Fashion Fling.

Great Lengths Sephora has gone to "great lengths" to show you the top 10 best mascaras at The Beauty Counter.

Ode to Mulberry’s Roxanne Tote Valentine's day may be over, but cupid just made Pink Rock Candy fall for Mulberry's Roxane Tote.

B.O.W. - Best Of The Web!

2008-02-19T17:37:00.004-05:00

GlamSpirit Challenge: Be Complaint Free Have you ever counted the number of times you've complained in a given day? Put a positive spin on some of that nagging negativity and see where it takes you.

Moms Buzz: Parenting Style 101 - What's Your Parenting Style? Promoting self-discipline and self-esteem of one’s children often requires an emotional juggling act by parents. It is not easy to be firm and demanding one minute, then warm and affectionate the next. What's your parenting style of the 3 available?

Work it Mom!: Our Favorite Hair Products For Busy Moms You have two minutes to get ready in the morning but you want your hair to look good. Here are some suggestions for hair products that can help.

Shrimpton Couture Asks If The Heeless Shoe is Future Vintage? Antonio Berardi heeless shoes may LOOK precarious and perhaps silly, but are they a future vintage treasure?

Couture in the City: Steal This Style! Amy Winehouse Rock Chic Grammy sweeper, troubled chanteuse and bouffant-wearin’ Amy Winehouse certainly knows how to make an entrance. Whether on stage, wandering around her neighborhood at 3AM or heading to a hearing for her “Blake incarcerated,” Amy is almost always in style.

Stiletto Jungle: Online Deal - 68% Off Avon Spring Trimmings Kit Fashion isn't the only thing that gets a face lift for spring. It's time to switch up your beauty routine too. Get a head start with $70 worth of spring-tastic makeup and skincare for only $22.50!

Stylenotes: Get the Look -- Fashion Week Front row fashion is just as important as what the models wear down the runway, and this Fashion Week, both socialites and starlets were on our radar. With our affordable selections, you’ll be stylin’ in no time.

Tod's Softy Tracolla Media Bag

2008-02-19T14:22:00.009-05:00

Who would have thought someone could be so excited over a Tod's handbag? Certainly not me. While I love the labels tried and true designs, they tend to be too safe and predictable for my taste. Now I'm seeing this purveyor of elegant handbags in a whole new light. The object of my affections is the absolutely lovely Softy Tracolla Media Bag.

Available in off white and tan (pictured), this slouchy design is crafted from textured leather and features a stunning braided double top handle. The drawstring-like sides with braided leather pulls lend this otherwise unremarkable bag a chic, modern touch. A zipped top and lined interior with zip pocket round out the design.

This bag is a winner from top to bottom and a great investment bag for any serious designer handbag collector. Priced at $1650 via Saks, the Softy Tracolla Media Bag is worth every cent of its' expensive price tag. Perhaps my hubby will read this in time for my birthday ;-).....

MARC by Marc Jacobs Faridah Hobo

2008-02-19T08:37:00.011-05:00

I've been enjoying my MARC by Marc Jacobs Faridah Bag in yummy brown chicory for almost a year now. It's a fantastic carryall that any woman could appreciate. Now that Spring handbags are making their way to our favorite department stores and boutiques, it's wonderful to see one of my all-time favorite bags getting a colorful makeover.

This version of the 'Faridah' is done in a roomy 12.5 x 6 x 15 hobo style and features gold-tone hardware, leather top handle, front zip pocket, dual front turn-lock closure pockets, and interior zip, cellphone and PDA pockets. The 'Faridah' has everything one needs in a handbag and the grass green color is a fresh departure for Spring. I simply can't wait to add this joyful color to my collection.

If the MARC by Marc Jacobs Faridah Hobo in grass speaks to your sense of joy as well, be sure to pre-order one for $438 via Neiman Marcus.

Weekly Fashion Blog Bazaar

2008-02-16T09:20:00.005-05:00

A-List Beauty Picks Get red carpet ready with SkinStore's A-List beauty picks at The Beauty Counter + get a free red velvet clutch with $75+.

Fashion Week F--k-Ups See which designers screwed up and screwed over What's Haute.

Kloss! Pink Rock Candy has a bone to pick with new IT model, Karlie Kloss.

So Frugalicious is Tickled Pink Valentine's Day may be over, but pink is here all spring.

Tarte Health Couture Set is What the Beauty Doctor Has Ordered The Tarte Health Couture Set is what the beauty doctor has ordered at a price that won't raise your blood pressure at Fashion Fling.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T15:27:00.009-05:00

Wishing all my readers a very happy Valentine's Day filled with love and lots of special "tresures" (wink, wink)! Let the bubbly, chocolates, flowers and arm candy flow abundantly.

And a special wish for my very special guys...

Botkier Lita Clutch

2008-02-13T14:08:00.011-05:00

This clever little clutch speaks for itself. Perfect for a evening out, the Botkier Lita Clutch is stylish and affordable. Available in marine patent leather for an edgy look or fuschia and black leather for a more refined touch, the 'Lita' is a definite must-have clutch for any fashionable creature of the night. Features include gold-tone hardware on the marine and fuschia reditions and silver-tone hardware on the black version, tab with turn-lock closure, zip top opening and lined interior with a zip pocket for additional storage. With a roomy 5 x 10 x 2.5 size, you'll be able to fit a small wallet, compact, lipstick and cell-phone comfortably. What more does a woman need to carry when she's having fun? How about a huge smile when she realizes she only paid $350 for her chic little bag.

Available via Shopbop

New Arrivals Alert: 3.1 Phillip Lim Handbags

2008-02-13T08:31:00.011-05:00

In case the name 3.1 Phillip Lim doesn't ring a bell, let me refresh your fashion memories. This emerging designer has cultivated a following among fashionistas who desire chic, simple clothing. This fresh aesthetic translates well into his accessories' line. Just in time for Spring, eLUXURY introduces the 3.1 Phillip Lim collection. His handbag line is composed of thoughtful totes, shoulder bags and clutches that enhance any outfit. Whether you require a go-to day bag or a comfortable carryall, this collection has you covered. The icing on the cake, by far, is their moderate price point - all the bags are under $1000.

B.O.W. - Best Of The Web!

2008-02-12T12:40:00.000-05:00

Every Tuesday, Señora Cartera will bring you B.O.W. - the Best Of The Web. This weekly roundup of posts from some of the web's best blogs and sites will keep you fashionably informed.
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Glam Spirit: Fun Gift Giving Tip from Japan If you’re planning to give a sweet Valentine’s Day gift to someone special this week, why not present it in a gorgeous red fabric rather than some paper that will just get tossed away.

Moms Buzz: Moms' Night In - Tips and Ideas After a week's full agenda, we are probably left with little energy, opportunity or incentive for hitting the town with our girl friends. But, that doesn't mean we can't create an equally fun moms' night in! Get the tips!

Couture in the City: New York Fashion Week, Fall 2008, Best of the Best, Temperly London Thank ye gods for Temperly London…IMHO, Temperly London is the best of the best for New York fashion week, fall 2008. If I had to see one more “Working Girl” 80’s inspired business suit, I was going to hurl…but luckily TL saved my sanity.

Work it Mom!: Quick Valentine's Day Crafts For Kids Your kids want to make something creative for Valentine's Day and you have exactly two minutes to help them. Check out this list for some quick and fun ideas that don't require your inner Martha Stewart.

Stiletto Jungle: Peek Inside the Grammy Style Studio Music and fashion go hand in hand, particularly when it comes to fabulous awards show swag. Stiletto Jungle hit this year's Grammy Style Studio and reports back with all of the fashionable details.

Stylenotes.com: Take Note -- Seeing Red (on the Runways) The abundance of red on the runways this season caught our eye – check out our favorite red looks, and our picks on how to partake in the trend.

TotSnob: Tassimo Coffee for the Tired, Busy Mom A coffee maker for the mom on the go, perfect for those of us who need a dose of joe without the wait. Now you have time to get both you and your child ready for the day!

Marni Deco Style Clutch

2008-02-09T16:47:00.000-05:00

A smart day-to-evening clutch should be spacious but not cumbersome, chic but not trendy, elegant but not boring. This can be a very tall order in today's disposable designer handbag market, and, yet, a fabulous, reasonably-priced option is ours for the taking. Marni accepts the task of creating the aforementioned super clutch with a discerning eye fore sleek sophistication. Crafted from gray/brown nappa leather, this frame clutch measuring 7 x 6.5 x 1 features silver-tone hardware accents and an eye-catching, deco style top clasp closure. For $639 via Net-A-Porter, the Marni Deco Style Clutch is a fashionista's must-have bag.

New Arrivals Alert: Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis Violette Collection

2008-02-09T09:23:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Louis Vuitton has introduced a new color to its' popular Monogram Vernis line. If you loved last year's radiant 'Pomme d'Amour', then this new, sexy color is right up your alley. The 'Violette' hue is deep, regal and very chic. I'm still trying to decide which LV accessory I'll be adding to my collection this Valentine's Day, but there's no doubt in my mind which color I'll select it in.

Visit your local Saks, Neiman Marcus or LV boutique to browse the entire Monogram Vernis collection in violette or shop on-line at eLUXURY's exclusive Louis Vuitton boutique.

Spotlight On.....Gucci ♥ NY Collection

2008-02-09T08:36:00.000-05:00

To celebrate the grand opening of Gucci's largest store in the world, Creative Director Frida Giannini has designed a collection of exclusive products that will be offered solely at Gucci 5th Avenue in NYC.

The first collection, "Gucci ♥ NY" is an ode to the city, where Gucci first opened its doors in 1953. Featuring Gucci’s iconic webbing, white GG pattern canvas, bold red and royal blue stripes, and the prominent "Gucci ♥ NY", this collection will more than likely sell like hotcakes. What's more, proceeds from the sale of "Gucci ♥ NY" products will be donated entirely to Playground Partners of the Central Park Conservancy. This organization is responsible for the care and maintenance of the playgrounds in Central Park. It's Gucci's way of giving back to a city that brought so much success to the Italian fashion house.
Aside from iconic handbags, this Gucci store will offer ready-to-wear, jewelry and other assorted leather goods. Here's a sampling of what designer handbag lovers can expect to find at the 5th Avenue flagship's handbag department. If you're not a NYC native or a trip to the Big Apple is not in your immediate future, then the internet will certainly afford you an opportunity to stock up on your favorite Gucci designs. Unfortunately, the "Gucci ♥ NY" collection is not for sale on the Gucci website. If you have a hankering for a product from this collection, you'll just have to head over to NYC and get it.

Queen Hobo Bag - $1650
Sabrina Large Boston Bag - $1890
Hysteria Shoulder Bag - $1295

Papillon Clutch - $695
Hysteria Clutch - $1495

Available via Gucci.com

Monique Lhuillier Fall 2008 Collection: Clean Confident Excess

2008-02-08T14:17:00.000-05:00

There can be no doubt in the fashion world that Monique Lhuillier is a designer to be reckoned with. This fact is obviously displayed throughout her amazing Fall '08 collection. There are no bags to speak of, but when I see true genius I feel it's my duty to share it with everyone. So, to heck with designer handbags for the moment. Feast your eyes on her latest creations and you too will understand why Monique Lhuillier is fierce.

Bravo, Monique! You go girl!
Photos via Elle.com

Beauty Must-Have: Sephora's Smokey Eye Kit

2008-02-07T14:41:00.000-05:00

Get the look every woman is dying to master - the smokey eye. If you happen to share my Angelina Jolie-like lips, accentuating the eyes is the perfect way to balance your features. Attaining this trendy yet sophisticated look is made simple with Sephora's Smokey Eye Kit. This faux gunmetal leather case includes five Sephora Professionelle brushes, volume mascara and an instruction booklet. You cannot go wrong with these tools at your disposal. I love my Smokey Eye Kit, and, trust me, you will too.

The Smokey Eye Kit: $42 via Sephora.com

MARC by Marc Jacobs Fall 2008 Collection: MJ Loves The 80s

2008-02-06T16:18:00.000-05:00

As I browsed through the mostly ho-hum creations featured up until now during New York Fashion Week, I was literally blasted out of my chair by the chic, youthful and retro-fabulous fashions from MARC by Marc Jacobs' Fall 2008 collection. A mixture of neon colors and strong silhouettes are a throw-back to the awesome 80s.Not to worry, ladies, there is nothing "cheesy" about these looks. Even if you have bad memories of lime green sweatshirts and black tube skirts lingering in the back of your mind, Marc Jacobs' reinterpretation of the once trendy fad will certainly erase them. The lengths and silhouettes will mostly appeal to younger women, but we can all appreciate the vision and spot-on execution which brought this collection to life.

As if the fashions weren't enough to get me out of my NYFW funk, Jacobs' continues to delight MARC lovers with practical handbags that are short on excess and long on style. Revel in the complimentary neon colors, chic blacks, functional totes and feminine clutches displayed on the runway, and say a little prayer in the hopes that his signature collection will be as bold and inspired as its' younger counterpart was.
Photos via Elle.com