I’m paralyzed lately getting a new handbag.  I just don’t like the “slouchy” look that is all the rage.   Honestly, I love a good handbag, but I just can’t seem to part with the funds that my hearts desire is drawn to.

Why oh why do they have to cost so much money?  Do “real people” really spend this much money on these handbags or do they have an “in” that I don’t know about?  Someone tell me!  Please…I think they have a secret that no one knows about!

This season, it looks like I’m totally absorbed in Marc Jacobs and Dolce&Gabbana go figure!  Can’t you just “see” the difference!

I like purses with structure, and simple classic shape.  Don’t give me bling and I’m not into hooks and rings.  Just a beautiful classic leather bag.  No “stuff” on the outside of a bag that advertises for the designer.  Talk about “free” advertising.  How crazy is that!  Subtle elegance is high on my priority list!

Maybe someone will “gift’ me one of these one day!  Until then, I’ll have to stick to the labels everyone knows Coach, Kate Spade, and Brahmain for example. Ho, hum! As I use to tell my children, just because I like doesn’t mean I get!

How about you?  Are you drawn to accessories that are totally out of your price range?  How do you do it?  Do you go there?  I think, I really do think that there is a place that we don’t know about that sells handbags for a fraction of the cost and are as good quality as those that are thousands of dollars.  It’s called “knockoffs” or “fakes” and I won’t go there either!  Real or nothing for me!  Until then……

“Look Good, Feel Great and Have FUN Doing It!”

All new and updated are some fashion trends that are becoming passe.  Don’t make your passion for fashion become a crime of fashion!  Stay current and up to date!

These are fashion blunders that you should never do.  Pay close attention because as you get older and more mature, your youth may no longer allow you to get away with these crimes!

1. Double denim…..never wear a pair of denim slacks with a denim jacket.  Mixing denim is o.k., but why not mix it with something more inventive-say corduroy, suede or leather??
2. All-leather looks.…leather is in but pair it wisely and tone it down.  Just because you see it on the run-way or on the movie stars doesn’t mean it’s everyday street wear.
3. Granny sweaters.…nothing ages you more than a pastel crew neck with a peter pan collar.  Open up your collar, put on a v-neck and show that you are alive and well!
4. 8″ Platform stilettos…ok seriously who can even walk in them???  Are you planning on using them for weaponry?  Instead try wearing a sleek moderate pump with a low vamp (opening).  Anything up to 3″ most people can actually survive the sidewalks in!
5. 80’s Dressing....we are seeing the resurgence of the 80’s but honestly if you wore it in the 80’s you’re pushing 30 years older and it won’t cut it the second time around.  Leave it for the 20 somethings!
6. Over-sized Bags...we are over them and you really should be too.  I’m talking suitcase-body bags!  You bag should be scaled to fit your body.  Besides who can carry one without reeking havoc to your shoulder??

Just remember that fashion is bought style is created.  Come and learn how to create your perfect style at Style Camp

“Look Good, Feel Great and Have Fun Doing It!”

Check this great Jimmy Choo handbag from Nordstrom out.  It has interpretations of all the latest trends.

Follow these simple rules when wearing/carrying that BIG bag and you’ll be on trend and in style every day.

1. Rule #1 you can only have 1 statement!  Don’t go statement bag AND statement earrings.
2. Watch the hardware on your handbag, it sets the tone for your jewelry-gold to gold, silver to silver.  Although you don’t watch to “look” all matchy-matchy with your jewelry, you do want to accessorize correctly since this is a BIG statement.
3. Keep the color bold and simple-DON’T opt for a multi-colored print “Statement Bag”–so old-school
4. Opt for interesting “on-trend” details.  This season chains, quilting and fringe are all on trend.  Choosing a bag with trend touches makes them look more “luxe”.

You’ve heard me say it before and I say it again. It’s all about proportion. Think Shape and Scale.

1.  Shapes

Choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type.

Tall and thin: Choose one that is slouchy or rounded to compliment your figure.
Short and voluptuous: Select on that is tall or rectangular or long and sleek (think clutch)

Generally, the rounder your figure, the more structure you should have in your bag . . .

Bag Definitions:

• Tote – An open-top bag with straps or handles.
• Hobo bag – A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.
• Duffel – Tall shoulder bag, often with a wider opening on top.
• Field bag – A flap-top shoulder bag with utility-type closure (buckles, snaps, etc).
• Clutch – Small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.
• Satchel - A large, handheld bag.
• Baguette – Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.
• Messenger – A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).
• Cigar Box – A small, boxy, hard bag.
• Pouch – A soft, small bag.
• Kelly bag – A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.

2.  Scale

Size should be in proportion to your figure. So if you are small is size and scale select a bag that is in scale with your body. DO not choose a bag that overpowers your body.

A shoulder bag’s length (where the bottom of the bag hits your body) will accentuate whatever part of the body it comes near. So if you are ‘blessed’ with “saddle bags” do not have your shoulder bag end at the largest part of your hips. The eye will be drawn to this point and accentuate your hips.

*Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.

3.  Tips

Select your handbag wisely. Take your time and look at yourself in the mirror.  Just because it is a trendy shape, it may not work for you. Does it match your lifestyle?