Handbags

Trend of the moment: black metal

 in Handbags / Jewelry / Shoes / Trends  tagged black / fall 2013 / resort 2014 / spring 2014 / street style trends / winter 2014 by

black metal

Gloves / Bracelets / Watch / Ring / Shoes

One of the big trends to come out of Paris and Milan is the black metal trend. Over the past few years we have seen a big uptick in non-traditional colored metals used in jewelry. One of the popular colored metals in fine jewelry has been black. While this may not seem like an odd color for metal, being that iron is often black, it is not a traditional metal color for jewelry. David Yurman even used blackened silver in his special “Ice” collection for Neiman Marcus several years ago.

As we entered 2013, designers began to use black on items such as handbags and shoes in lieu of traditional yellow, silver or rose-gold metals. The black metal hardware used in accessories offered an edgy yet understated look to luxurious items such as Chanel’s “So Black” classic flap handbag and Valentino’s “Rockstud” handbags and shoes.

With the uptick in black metal being used in accessories, more designers and brands are starting to use black metal in their pieces as an alternative to traditional metals. While black metal will never replace gold, silver or rose-gold metals, it is definitely enjoying its’ place in the accessory spotlight at the moment. It may even be possible that black metal becomes a quiet classic in the accessories hardware department; and possibly in the jewelry department too!

What are your thoughts on black metal? Is this a trend you enjoy wearing? Do you envision it becoming classic over time?

Black metal accessories from around the web:

Street Style Trends: The drawstring bucket bag

 in General Fashion / Handbags / Trends  tagged casual style / fall 2013 / resort 2014 / spring 2014 / street style trends / winter 2014 by

drawstring bags 2013

From top left: Olive Bag / Black Bag / Tan Bag / Off-White Bag

The hottest handbag style to hit the streets this very minute is the drawstring bucket bag. Beginning in summer 2013, drawstring bags have been popping up on Fashionistas around the globe. Fashion savvy women have been snapping up drawstring bucket bags in both vintage and modern styles which reflect a casual, understated appearance.

Of course anytime there is an “IT” handbag trend, there is an “IT” handbag! The hottest, can’t get your hands on it, handbag of the moment is Mansur Gavriel’s drawstring bucket bag. Priced moderately at $460-$495 depending upon color choice, this drawstring bucket bag has a waiting list which rival’s that of the Hermes Birkin. Yes, it’s true!

Mansur Gavriel’s drawstring bucket bag is available in neutral hues such as black, tan and reddish-brown. The $460 style is a basic drawstring bucket bag which is understated and exudes high quality. The $495 version of Mansur Gavriel’s bucket bag offers a pop of color with a bright interior-these are the most sought-after styles.

Yours truly is on the waiting list for a black drawstring bucket bag by Mansur Gavriel with red interior. My bag was ordered in November and will not arrive until April 2014! Talk about waiting!

Almost every designer and brand on the planet is aware of the drawstring bucket bag trend and has responded. You will be happy to know this handbag style can be found suited for every taste. There are understated drawstring buckets bags, studded versions, color blocked versions and chain laced versions. The majority of the drawstring bucket bags on the market today, and as we move into 2014, are in neutral or basic colors. The idea is to carry a casual, effortless handbag which does not bear a logo.

I found a few fabulous drawstring bucket bags around the web and assembled them into the shopping widget. While Mansur Gavriel may not be included due to the high demand, there are plenty of other options which can be obtained immediately, or may include a small wait. 

Happy shopping, and stay fabulous 😉

Laura Mercier Luxe Travel Brush Set

 in Beauty / Handbags / Shopping  tagged clutches / holidays 2013 / laura mercier / make up brushes / outfits by

DSC_0932 DSC_0935 DSC_0936 DSC_0938 DSC_0940  DSC_0947 DSC_0950

Photos: c/o Laura Mercier Luxe Brush Set with clutch / Earrings: Kathy Kamei / Sweater: Gap / 3/4 sleeve shirt / Jeans: Gap / Shoes: Manolo Blahnik

Laura Mercier’s new “Luxe Brush Set” for the holiday 2013 season is nothing short of amazing! This luxurious brush set not only has all the make-up brushes you need on a daily basis, it has a detachable case inside which leaves plenty of room for the using the case as a clutch! How perfect is that!!!

I absolutely adore the case. The deep chocolate brown color and faux stingray texture offers a beautiful classic look which can be worn for years. The case is a hard box, so it acts like a hard box clutch which makes it easy to wear casually, as shown above, or paired with a dress for evening occasions.

Since Laura Mercier’s Luxe Brush Set comes in a beautiful handbag/case, it is perfect for traveling! You can easily fit the brush set, jewelry and make-up inside the case when tucking it into your suitcase. When you arrive at your destination simply remove the brush set and it’s zipper case along with anything you stored inside for travel and voila! You have a beautiful clutch! Love it!

Laura Mercier’s Luxe Brush Set will make the perfect gift this holiday season; for a loved one or you! The Luxe brush Set by Laura Mercier is priced at $125 ( a $26 value!) and can be found online here and here.

Happy Holidays! xoxo Cathy