SHOES/ACCESSORIES

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about fashion it’s that you shouldn’t buy a bag, just because it’s the new big thing with every Hollywood starlet. Instead of going for the ‘it’ factor, you should go for what works for you, especially in terms of shape and color. That said, there are still a few bags that I think everyone should own and will eternally have the it factor, regardless of whether Lindsay Lohan is carrying it on her shoulder.

Unfortunately, just about every season there’s some variation of black leather bags that makes its way into every celebrity’s closet. Anyone remember the Stam (by Marc Jacobs) bag? Or how about the Fendi Spy bag? Here are a couple of my favorite not-black, super gorgeous bags.

This Badgley Mischka bag is white, which on the opposite end of the spectrum from black. It’s also got gold accents that give it flair. While white is a little (or a lot) harder to keep clean, I think white makes much more of a statement no matter what season or outfit you wear it in. Badgley Mischka Selma bag is available at Bloomingdale’s ($395).

The soft yellow color of this bag makes it a great option for spring and summer. While I’m over the “hobo” bag, I think I can make an exception for a bag this pretty. Especially because the grained effect gives it a little bit more personality. Rebecca Minkoff’s Plan B Hobo is available at Bloomingdale’s ($655).

Even in the summer I’m known to wear a lot of black. I blame it on living in New York for so long. But if you’re anything like me, either of these two bags will break up the color and take that outfit to the next level.
Happy Shopping!

Bre

Cosmo magazine likes to throw around the phrase “fun, fearless, females” and this spring I think fashion designers everywhere are trying to tell women to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Or in this case, walk the walk in yellow.

With a 3 inch heel, this Franco Sarto pump is adorable. It comes in black or yellow but if you’re trying to show just how fearless you are, yellow is the obvious choice. I’m in love with the cute little bow on the edge of the peeptoe and the perforations. The entire shoe screams “Spring here I come!” Franco Sarto’s Condor is available at Bloomingdale’s ($89).

If you own a pair of loafers, raise your hand. If you own a pair of bright yellow loafers, raise your hand. Anyone? Yeah, I didn’t think so. Leave it to Ralph Lauren to put a modern twist on a classic style. Lauren by Ralph Lauren flats available at Bloomingdale’s ($89).

The great thing about a color like yellow is that its an instant mood lifter. And wearing yellow on your feet? Well… the minute you look down, you’ll be back in high spirits. Who can frown at yellow feet? Or really… who can frown at cute shoes like these BCBG ballet flats? There’s a patent flower ornament on the top that I’m sure wiggles when you walk. BCBG Max Azria Carmels flats available at Bloomingdale’s ($135.99).

Happy Shopping!

Bre

Earlier this week, Arianna talked about those Brooklyn girls who make the rest of us jealous because we (and by we, I mean me) can never manage to perfect the blend of smart займ на карту безработным без отказа, creative and fashionable. I thought I’d talk about the West Village fashionistas I stumble across whenever I’m in between classes.

I’m a huge fan of animal print, and I’ve noticed I’m not the only one. They’re a great, really easy way to add flavor to an outfit. These flats are Tory Burch, available at Bloomingdale’s ($225.00).

For both comfort and style purposes, a non-traditional color is always great. It’s an easy way, just like animal print, to show some personality in your outfit. And yes, I’m suggesting you wear the leopard print flats with a cranberry (or any color really) sweater. This BCBG Max Azria open front cardigan is available at Bloomingdale’s ($52.99). If you don’t go pick up this sweater, I will.

Quintessential skinny jeans. I own several pair, and these J Brand jeans are one of my favorites. J Brand Jeans, Bardot style are available at Neiman Marcus ($187.00)

No New York outfit is complete without something in black. This Vince Women’s Rib Tank Top can be purchased at Bloomingdale’s ($48.00).

This is by no means, the official uniform of the West Village style maven. But if you’re ever unsure of how to dress when walking the stores of Bleecker Street or Washington Place, you can’t go wrong with this.

Happy Shopping!

Bre

You know those adorably hip gals? Not the ones with the latest “It” bag slung over their Free City clad shoulder, but the ones who always look like they’re coming from their Pratt or Cooper Union painting class. I’m not talking about pretentious hipsters, I mean the real deal; the artsy fartsy Brooklyn girl look, à la Michelle Williams, who manages to look cute, creative, and intellectual, all at the same time.
**The Essentials**

Classic Rayban Wayfarers $129 Eluxury.com

High Waist Wide Leg Jeans
Grey Ant Braid Jean $330 Shopbop.com, they’re pricey but they fit gorgeously. (or try the cheaper Jbrand version on shopbop.com)

Vintage-y brown leather bag
For real vintage, check out the thrift stores on West 17th st, but if you’re often lazy like me, check out this beauty.
Urban Outfitters Saddlery Buckle Bag $58

Minnetonka Moccasins
Women’s Two Button Boot $32.95 Minnetonkamoccasinshop.com

Flowery Dress
Silk Print Dress, $130 Topshop.com
Happy Hunting, you little artist you!
xoxo
Arianna