Kate Spade Japanese Floral Scout Shoulder Bag
Few handbag shapes enjoyed as much popularity last year as the schoolbag-inspired structure. The Kate Spade Japanese Floral Scout Shoulder Bag shows it off in ladylike, grown-up style. The blooming print, which feels distinctly vintage, is an apt design for this crisp, no-frills silhouette. It adds a little levity to the mix without completely taking it down to schoolgirl level. Available for $278 at Nordstrom.
You can now watch “Hearts and Crafts” on Hermes.com
Did you miss last fall’s documentary on Hermes craftsmanship and the people who make it possible? So did we, but fret not, the Internet is a wondrous place full of second chances. (And cat pictures. Second chances and cat pictures.) If you’d like a chance to peer behind the curtain and see what happens in Hermes workshops and meet the people who make the world’s finest leather goods, Hermes.com now has the documentary, in its entirety, available for streaming. For a little taste of what it offers, check out the teaser above. If you decide to watch it, we guarantee you that this is the only thing you’ll ever get for free from the Hermes website.
Top 5 Sporty Exotics: Sport of Queens
Who says a deluxe exotic has to be all fancy-schmancy? That’s a misconception that designers are out to banish this season. Python and crocodile skins have been whipped into shape, most literally speaking. Some of my new favorite exotic bags are sporty, with athletic and casual touches – like stripes, canvas, slick lines, and blocks of color – that turn luxury skin on its flexible head.
1) Lanvin Miss Sartorial Metallic Python Clutch: Addictive metallic skin gets revved up by a lightly athletic take on racing stripes. Va-va-vroom! On Net-a-Porter
2) Proenza Schouler PS1 Medium Canvas Printed Python Satchel: The tried and true PS1 is nearly unrecognizable in faded striped canvas. Chestnut python trim glams it up, but this bag is a scamp at heart. At Barneys New York for $1,825.
3) Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Messenger Bag: This bag didn’t leave Kelly’s side all summer and for good reason: this croc is made to move. Now in textural taupe and gold, it’s the lushest take yet on the speedy messenger style. At Bergdorf Goodman
4) Diane von Furstenberg Sporty Drew Embossed Python Bucket Tote: Embossed leather still does the job of an exotic, especially when you’re considering a toss-around day tote. The hot-pink rolled handles introduce athletic edge. On ShopBop
5) Marc Jacobs Python Khaki Tote: Just a splash of flash makes this keenly colorblocked tote a sport-influenced winner. Marc Jacobs is back with stylish agility. At Barneys New York for $3,795.
Web Snob February, 3rd 2012
CoutureSnob‘s top 5 printed dresses are so gorgeous you can practically hang them on your walls.
Allie is Wired checks out Rihanna’s new blonde hair, courtesy of Elle magazine.
Stiletto Jungle explains how to shop (and score) at off-price retail stores.
Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow! Brightening Makeup not only glides on as light as air, it looks like skin! At BeautySnob.
From posh blazers to darling cupcake liners, gingham’s checkered pattern makes a colorful splash this spring, according to Coquette.
The Jet Set Girls get the look from the Chanel Haute Couture Spring 2012 show.
Glitter is a must for any self-respecting and princess-loving girl – old or young! TotSnob found the perfect glittery shoes for your tot!
Second City Style thinks adding some tropical brights and rich jewel tones can be a good way to wake yourself up and says Good Morning, Winter Sunshine.
Fendi’s Spring shoes are fantastic! It looks like the house has adopted a carefree attitude – not typical for them. At ShoeSnob.
Angelina Jolie’s black halter dress from Jenny Packham is not availablebut, the Halston Heritage version Shopping and Info found IS available for Valentine’s Day..
Ax + Apple is all for “making things like they used to.” And the result is super-cool, antique-y jewelry with an Indian vibe. At JewelSnob.
The Beauty Stop spots some great Valentine’s Day beauty deals.
Top 5 Cobalt Bags: I’ve Got the Hots for Blue
Cobalt blue has been used for centuries on Chinese porcelain, but only recently have we seen it appear on some of our favorite bags. Not to mention, on style snobs in every form, from blazers to leather pants. What’s not to like about this brilliant hue? Nothing. It’s so bold it actually borders on a neutral, it makes an impact without being overtly feminine (or masculine, for that matter), and it packs a major punch. Here, the coolest cobalt numbers of the moment:
1) Reed Krakoff Atlantique Tote: Reed’s insanely vivid take, a blending of python and crocodile, and metallic, for a tote with futuristic edge. At Reed Krakoff for $5,900.
2) Jimmy Choo Candy Acrylic Clutch: I want candy! Jimmy Choo’s flirty little clutch is a no-brainer party topper – wear it with a colorful cocktail dress and make them stare. On Net-a-Porter
3) Maison du Posh Bite Me Medium Suede Hobo: I just fell hard for their “Bite Me” clutch. Now it’s in everyday hobo form…in rich cobalt?! The jagged little jaws at the corners put this over the edge of cool. On Luisa Via Roma
4) Milly Mina Ostrich-Effect Leather Satchel: A softer take on the shade, for those who don’t want to go all out. Milly’s frugal find is a classic style that will inject a measured dose of color into your look. On Net-a-Porter
5) Emilio Pucci Marquise Nappa Solid Shoulder Bag: Electric blue doesn’t get better than this. The slinky, linked chain strap is unabashed glamour; the frame of ringed piercings is hardcore with a delicate touch. On Luisa Via Roma
Ports 1961: Color Shock
I love surprises! Who would have thought this pumped-up Spring collection is by Ports 1961? I’ve come to expect strictly natural elements from their designs (like their wood clutch) – not peachy-keen fluorescence that turns up the heat.
I’m glad they took the risk. The on-trend juxtaposition of red and orange does it for me. This mix-up of such similar colors is like a refreshing papaya smoothie, especially welcomed in the warm weather, and structured design sets it off nicely. The top-handled accordion bag will add zest to your work wardrobe ($1,650), while the itty-bitty box clutch is adorable ($350). Take the matching flatform sandal while you’re at it ($389), and shake up the old-fashioned concept of bag-shoe coordination!
Yves Saint Laurent East West Tote Handbag
You already know that Yves saint Laurent stands for understated luxury and elegance, and this springtime bag is a perfect example of their conservative chic. Nothing is more obnoxious that a bag covered in labels, so I prefer a more discreet nod to the fashion label like the simple Y shaped charm on the flap of this East West tote. Red fringed linen steps away from the ultra bright neon colors that are so prevalent this season, for a more classic seasonal bag that you can pull out every year. The simple, yet roomy shape makes this a great carryall all throughout the warmer months.
Brick fringed linen covers bone tone leather on this beautiful designer handbag. It has gold-toned hardware and double top handles. There is a large Y insert in tonal fabric on the body of the bag, and a leather strap with gold-toned signature logo snap closure. It has a single top zip closure. Inside is brick textile lining with two front wall slot pockets and one back wall zippered pocket. It has gold-toned protective feet on the bottom. YSL bags are made in Italy. $2,395. YSL bags are here
Lanvin ‘Mini Pop’ Polka Dotted Snakeskin Shoulder Bag
What’s blue, dotty, and fabulous all over? This adorable bag! I’d love to have this super chic Lanvin ‘Mini Pop’ Polka Dotted Snakeskin Shoulder Bag hanging at my hip, full of my daily essentials. The deep, dark blue color is rich and elegant, but the polka-dotted snakeskin gives it a fun twist. The antique brass and resin turnlock closure adds a welcome touch of vintage whimsy, making this my favorite bag… until I find another favorite bag. Available for $1,325 at Brown’s.
Kate Spade Bedford Road Leighton Shoulder Bag
Work that colorblock trend, ladies! In case you haven’t noticed, there’s no escaping it. Make the most of it with the Kate Spade Bedford Road Leighton Shoulder Bag on your arm. A strong pop of coral brightens up the palette and gives it a fresh, very fun twist that keeps the entire look from being too serious. Even the interior lining – a straight-from-the-tropics floral print – is playful. Love it! Available for $448 at Nordstrom.
Roberto Cavalli Doctor Quilted Leather Tote
It’s been a while since I’ve been so taken by a bag I’ve never met. It normally takes a good drool- and ogle-fest before I declare myself smitten, but this Roberto Cavalli Doctor Quilted Leather Tote had me at hello. Pairing a gorgeous, blush-toned nude with a crisp silhouette and minimal hardware, it strikes a classic note and looks incredible with anything, anywhere. Available for $2390 at Net-a-Porter.