by Celine on September 3, 2010
UPDATE: This post has been updated on September 03, 2010. Scroll down to see the new add.
You know how I know we’re good? Because we never forget a shoe. Or a handbag. Or a face. OK, so not the last one. Back in the old days (you know, 2005) the fashion world saw the introduction to the “It Bag” – a bag that became every starlet’s must have accessory. One day, readers (stay with me), Mary Kate Olsen was spotted carrying a gorgeous black, studded bag that no one could identify but that everyone immediately wanted. A year later the bag (eventually attributed to the talented, Alexander Wang) was made available to the public. It was then known as “Coco”; it is now known as “Rocco”; I can afford neither one.
Alexander Wang Rocco Mini Duffel Bag
($875, Shopbop)
Celebrities Love Alexander Wang
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Ajito Studded Bottom Satchel
UPDATE (09/03/2010): Reader Addy informed us about this lovely Rocco knockoff by Ajito. It comes in either black, brown, grey or white. Thanks, Addy!
Ajito Studded Bottom Satchel
($48, YesStyle)
Wet Seal Stud Bottom Satchel
I have to be honest, the last time I shopped at Wet Seal I was looking for something to wear to the school dance (in other words, it was 1998), but by golly perhaps Wet Seal deserves another look! Their Stud Bottom Satchel is a pretty darn great dupe of the Alexander Wang bag. True, it’s not made out of leather but I know there are vegans among us who actually prefer that. For a measly $24.50 this is a hot bag to add to your arsenal. (Note: if you’re having trouble locating the bag on theWet Seal site, click on the link below and enter the style number – “42178118” – into the search field).
Wet Seal Stud Bottom Satchel
Style #: 42178118
($24.50, Wet Seal)
by Irina on August 31, 2010
Don’t tell anyone, but I’m a Kim Kardashian style stalker. It’s one of my (few) guilty pleasures. For some reason I have this weird fascination with whatever Kim K. wears; I need to identify it, recreate it or simply gush about it. Yup, you can call me strange. I guess Monica Rose, Kim’s stylist, does a very good job because I know I’m not the only one digging Kim’s newly evolved style.
Our Rating: 
Kim Kardashian’s Look 4 Less
Go Shopping:
by Celine on August 31, 2010
UPDATE: This post has been updated on August 31, 2010. Scroll down to see the new add.
A good friend of mine recently bought a Mulberry Bayswater (a gift to herself on her birthday) and for a week straight everyone oohed and ahhed over it at the office. It is a spectacular bag, to be sure, but I think this new Mulberry takes the cake: the Alexa – a slouchier, more casual version of the Bayswater named after British style export Alexa Chung who is a true devotee of the Mulberry brand. If you haven’t heard tell of this bag yet, you will. Speculated to be the “It” bag of the moment, the Alexa sold out instantaneously on NET-A-PORTER after being added last week. Restocks are supposed to follow soon, but even still, this beautiful creation is way out of my sad little budget.
Mulberry Oversized Alexa Leather Bag
($1.250, NET-A-PORTER)
Alexa Chung Loves Mulberry
Alloy “Cecile” Satchel
UPDATE (08/31/2010): Here’s yet another fabulous Mulberry Alexa look-a-like by Alloy. Available in black, brown & grey.
Alloy “Cecile” Satchel
($36.90, Alloy)
Dorothy Perkins Chain Strap Satchel
UPDATE (07/30/2010): Another Alexa alternative by Dorothy Perkins. Not quite as spot-on as the Oasis one, but still a great alternative. Available in tan or cream. PSST! International delivery is half-price until Monday.
Dorothy Perkins Chain Strap Satchel
(£25, Dorothy Perkins)
Oasis Sasha Satchel
UPDATE (07/28/2010): Feast your eyes on the most awesome Mulberry Alexa knockoff to date. OK, the color of this Alexa steal version by Oasis isn’t spot-on, but the rest: Wowzers! And believe it or not: the bag is under $60. How great is that?
Oasis Sasha Satchel
($58.96, ASOS)
Dorothy Perkins Padlock Satchel
UPDATE (07/15/2010): OMG, I just came across these amazing and very affordable Alexa bag look-a-like by UK retailer Dorothy Perkins. Shipping to the USA is also quite OK at £10 (~$15).
Dorothy Perkins Padlock Satchel
(£28, Dorothy Perkins)
Topshop Buckle Strap Satchel
UPDATE (03/31/2010): Check out this amazing Alexa knockoff bag by Topshop. It does miss the cute twist lock, but the overall look is still super similar. A little pricey at $170, but only about 1/10 of the original.
Topshop Buckle Strap Satchel
($170, Topshop)
New Look Twist Lock Satchel
Now admittedly the knock-off potential isn’t immediately obvious here, but look closer. UK retailer, New Look, has created what is clearly their take on the Mulberry Alexa – Alexa’s younger sister, if you will. We’re loving the twist-lock and the oversized buckles. This tan/gingerbread color is a great match for the bag pictured above, but if you check out New Look’s site you’ll see that the other colors offered (brown, ecru and black) very clearly reference the Alexa; and the price is truly fantastic!
New Look Twist Lock Satchel
(£15, New Look)
by Irina on August 25, 2010
I often don’t get why so many people are obsessed with Sienna Miller‘s style, but occasionally I find myself adoring one or two of her outfits. Last year Sienna attended the New York premiere of “The September Issue” in a baby blue Thakoon strapless mini dress which she paired with her favorite pair of sunglasses, gold Jimmy Choo heels and a gunmetal Bottega Veneta box clutch. No headbands or anything you’d call boho chic. Just pure sexiness! I LOVE when celebrities mix things up a little and stray away from their signature style!
Our Rating:
| Who? |
Sienna Miller |
| Where? |
“The September Issue” Special Screening, New York |
| When? |
August 19, 2009 |
| What? |
Thakoon Resort 2010 strapless dress, Bottega Veneta clutch, Jimmy Choo sandals |
Sienna Miller’s Look 4 Less
Go Shopping:
by Vahni on August 11, 2010
I jumped on the skinny cargo movement a couple months back, so you know I just adore Leighton Meester in this utilitarian look. I didn’t think skinny cargos could be flattering, but the more I see them on, the more I am proved wrong. Leighton’s look may be neutral, but it’s anything but boring. And the best part is it is so easy to recreate, as you can see below.
Our Rating:
| Who? |
Leighton Meester |
| Where? |
On set of Gossip Girl, New York |
| When? |
July 26, 2010 |
| What? |
Dolan Miss Sally Blouse, Derek Lam Star Quilted Blanche bag , Derek Lam Odesa Lace-up Sandals |
Leighton Meester’s Laid-Back Look 4 Less
Go Shopping:
- BLOUSE: GUESS Page Top – Cocoa Voile, $59
- SUNGLASSES: Cheap Monday New Night Watch Sunglasses
, $30
- NECKLACE: ASOS Rhinestone Encrusted Angel Wing Long Pendant
, $13.48
- PANTS: Sanctuary “Peace” Skinny Leg Belted Cargo Pants
, $78.90
- NAIL POLISH: OPI Bullish On Opi Nail Polish
, $2.65
- WATCH: ASOS Oversized Metal Boyfriend Style Watch
, $20.21
- BANGLE: Nordstrom Domed Bangle
, $13.90
- LIP GLOSS: L’Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipgloss in Coral Sands
, $7.99
- BAG: Pieces Quilted Barrel Bag
, $50.54
- SHOES: Charles Albert 1101 Platform Sandals
, $34.95
by Vahni on July 31, 2010
Leopard is one of those prints that is really a fashion staple, although it seems to come in and out every few years. Well, it’s in again for the fall/winter 2010 season, and in a big way. Designers are peppering everything with it, so American Chic‘s Leopard Print Tassel Hobo is dropping at the absolute perfect time.
American Chic Leopard Print Tassel Hobo
($70, American Chic)
Vahni & Her American Chic Leopard Print Tassel Hobo
As I mention in my video review, I’ve been scouring the ‘net for affordable leopard bags, without much luck. There is a lot out there in the $1.200 to $2.900 range, but not much for the everyday person. This bag is a fun, irreverent leopard piece that is like an instant wardrobe update, and for only $70.
What I loved about this bag—other than its generous size and useful interior pockets—is the braided tassel detail, and the gold hardware. At-a-glance, the bag looks luxe, and makes a statement. Without the tassels and gleaming gold, I might not be so enamored. They really take this bag to the next level, and are the kind of details a synthetic bag should have to keep it from looking cheap.
Bottom Line
The American Chic Leopard Print Tassel Hobo is a fantastic—and practically foolproof—way to cost-effectively work some leopard into your wardrobe. I think the bag will hold up fine for a season or two of regular use, perhaps longer. It is also a nice alternative for those who are opposed to wearing animal fur, but really want a bag covered in this vibrant, glamorous pattern.
PROS:
- Will never show a speck of dirt.
- Fun, on trend, inexpensive. Great animal-friendly alternative to calf-hair leopard print print bags.
- Roomy, cloth-lined interior with three pockets. Big enough to fit a laptop in.
CONS:
- A large bag; may be overpowering for petite women.
- Seams near the strap look a little fragile, like they might tear with repeated, heavy use.
- Synthetic material is a little plasticky, though texture on the surface does make it more believable.
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(The bag has been provided to Vahni for review)
by Vanessa on July 30, 2010
When I heard about Fab Fridays, I was psyched. Super psyched. Why? Well, when I love things, I love them hard. Head over heels, obsessive kind of love. If it’s food, I eat it until I can’t look at it anymore. If it’s a type of clothes, I fill my closet with it until it’s out of style. So you can imagine the speed at which I immediately came up with my list… then spent an hour cutting it down.
The Breakdown:
- Popbar, NYC, $3.99 – As a kid, I loved ices. As an adult – same story. So of course, Popbar is one of my favorite stops in NYC – fresh made fruit ices and homemade gelato all on a stick with delicious toppings. Definitely try the coconut half dipped in milk chocolate.
- Pretty Little Liars – I’m a sucker for a good teenage TV drama and this one lives up to my expectations. Pretty Little Liars is about 4 girls dealing with life, love and the mysterious murder of their best friend. I never thought something on ABC Family could scare me silly!
- Magnes Sisters Dancing in the Streets Bag, $312 – I bought this bag in smokey grey as a birthday gift for myself. I said it was for fall. Well, it’s July and 94 degrees and I’ve carried it almost everyday since. The shape is stylish, but professional and unique with great fold-over detail. My iPad slides in perfectly and I love the extendable strap to wear it messenger style.
- Keds Champion in Silver Metallic
, $45 – Just like I swore I’d never wear leggings again… Keds are back, too. I’m loving the Champion style in silver metallic. They look great with dresses and shorts, plus they make we want to hit the playground during recess. Ahhhh, nostalgia!
- Rain Couture Rain Bag, $35 – These last few weeks we’ve had some amazing unexpected and brief thunderstorms. I love how the sky can fall for a few minutes and then be back to sunshine. The only problem is when I’m outside with nowhere to stash my designer purse. Rain Couture has seriously saved me this summer! I keep my clear bag inside my expensive bag for these emergency situations.
by Celine on July 24, 2010
UPDATE: This post has been updated on July 24, 2010. Scroll down to see the new adds.
Sometimes I really question my sanity. I will jump at the chance to buy and subsequently wear (all night long) a pair of 5 inch heels, however when it comes to bags I am much more comfort-conscious. I carry my Rebecca Minkoff cross-body purse more than any other bag in my closet, and it’s because it’s just so darn comfortable. I really love a cross-body bag because it distributes the weight of all your worldly possessions while simultaneously looking effortlessly chic. My new favorite bag to fall into this utopian category is the Proenza Schouler PS1 Large Leather Satchel. God, it’s a beauty, isn’t it? I’m particularly lusting after the gray color Leighton Meester is carrying. Unfortunately this satchel retails for $1,995. Yes, folks, life is cruel.
Proenza Schouler PS1 Large Leather Satchel
($1.995, Barney’s)
P.S.: Also available in an array of colors & fabrics at NET-A-PORTER.
Celebrities Love Proenza Schouler
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Pink Studio “Martine” Suede Satchel
UPDATE (07/24/2010): Check out this almost identical PS1 knockoff by Pink Studio. Isn’t it absolutely amazing? A bit steep at $185, but Baghaus has a promo going on right now where you can get 30% OFF sitewide + FREE SHIPPING with coupon code “BACK2SCHOOL“.
Pink Studio “Martine” Suede Satchel
($185, Baghaus)
Topshop Two Buckle Structured Satchel
UPDATE (07/24/2010): Here’s a black PS1 steal version by Topshop.
Topshop Two Buckle Structured Satchel
($80, Topshop)
ASOS Leather Slot Through Satchel
UPDATE (05/14/2010): I just stumbled upon another ASOS PS1 inspired version and I think it looks absolutely amazing. The bags comes in black, nude, yellow, green, mink & black/brown, is made of real leather and although not every detail is spot-on the overall look & feel is very similar to the Proenza Schouler PS1 in my opinion.
ASOS Leather Slot Through Satchel
($109.49, ASOS)
ASOS Leather Twist Lock Satchel
But wait! What light through yonder window breaks? ASOS‘s Leather Twist Lock Satchel is not an exact copy of the Proenza Schouler bag but it is so similar in all the ways that count (I considered seeing that Shakespeare reference through to the bitter end but didn’t want to bore you). I love the buttery looking leather and of course the long cross-body strap. I am also quite fond of the rich tan color. I truly think this is an excellent “inspired by” satchel. Now if only it came in gray…
ASOS Leather Twist Lock Satchel
($117.92, ASOS)
by Vahni on July 23, 2010
So this is my first Fab Friday 5 post, and I’m totally excited (and not just because it’s Friday)! Every week I come across so many delicious things during my Internet wanderings, and now I finally have a place (and people) to share them with. Hope you enjoy exploring this selection—wishing you all a happy weekend.
The Breakdown:
- LOLA&BAILEY Long Live McQueen Tote, $49 – A clever—and cheeky—version of the classic expression that is also an homage to one of England’s greatest exports. Originally sourced by notcouture.com.
- Vera Wang Lavender “Gabriella” Sandals
, $425 – Kind of like a shorter version of the oh-so-covetable Gucci Helena boot.
- Afterglow Wing Knuckle Duster Ring, $70 – I love a good knuckle duster, and this one in sterling by Afterglow is so cool, don’t you think?
- NET-A-PORTER Magazine, Free! – Even if the prices are beyond your budget, NET-A-PORTER’s online magazine is a visual feast that is chock full of style inspiration. And it’s weekly, so you can get your fashion fill between monthly print issues.
- Tory Burch Lucite Cuff in black, $45 – A little avant garde, a little tough girl chic. Buy two and sport them Wonder Woman style, to really make a statment.
by Irina on July 18, 2010
A few days ago actress Blake Lively has been spotted running errands on the Gossip Girl set in what I would describe as a perfect casual summer ensemble. The blonde beauty paired a blue button down shirt over an off-white tank top which she wore with navy shorts and a tan skinny belt. Her look was finished with lustworthy chocolate brown Louboutin espadrille wedges and a tan bowler bag. Absolutely adorable! See our approach to Blake’s outfit with budget-friendly picks from Old Navy and Steve Madden below and let us know what you think of our Look 4 Less.
Our Rating:
| Who? |
Blake Lively |
| Where? |
“Gossip Girl” set, New York |
| When? |
July 15, 2010 |
| What? |
Christian Louboutin Praia Espadrille Wedges |
Go Shopping (Total: $179.93):
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