Good Looking Purses

I'm not fond of the word "briefcase." The word conjures up images of uninspiring dull folder holders. A fantastic alternative would be the Amerileather Oversized Lexington Handbag. Compartments and pockets on the inside help with organization and exterior pockets on the front and back make this bag even more practical. This bag is perfect carried as a shoulderbag, satchel, or tote. Plus, this is not just a stuffy work bag, it

For a more casual chic look, check out the Pietro Alessandro Zebra Print Patent Leather Bag. The zebra calf hair mixed with patent leather makes for a fun purse that's also incredibly versatile since the colors are all neutrals. If you need a purse that will add tons of personality to any outfit, this is a perfect choice.

Perfectly Priced Clutch

With this Mano Snake Kiss Lock Mini, it looks like I'm breaking my own rule that clutches should have a wristlet strap, but there is actually a metal shoulder strap that tucks neatly into the clutch.

This is a fantastic clutch is glitzy and very appropriate for a glamorous event.

Even more fantastic, it's only $14.50.

Kasil Jeans

I retired a pair of Kasil Jeans almost a year ago and I'm still not over the loss yet.

Soft, yet durable denim that fits well, it's not surprising I find myself drawn to Kasil yet again.

The Luna in Midnight Rinse is a basic, no fuss, no muss straight leg jean. A nice clean wash that can be dressed up or down. Perfect for a night on the town or just for kicking around.

Recently though, I've been craving more of a trouser jean like the Chelsea Jean in Rinse. A nice easy wide leg and a little dressier, these jeans are sleek and polished.

Oh, can't forget to mention that these jeans are on sale!

ATL Dresses for Warmer Weather

For a relaxing spring or summer day, I like the V-Neck Contrast Stitch Dress at left. It's made of light jersey and is such a happy color. The neckline has an attached lining so it's not too revealing and the contrast stitching at the empire waist gives it a little added something.

For those warm days when you have to go to the office, the sophisticated Ponte Sheath Dress is perfect. It's not revealing, but still shapely and therefore figure flattering. When the air conditioning is blasting, a cardigan would be the perfect partner with this dress. Also, the neckline allows for many necklace options too. For example, a short string of pearls or a long multi-strand chain would both work perfectly while creating very different looks. Also, if you look closely, you'll see (my weakness) turnlocks on the patch pockets which adds such a great little detail to this basic of dress!

Sky Blue Peep Toe Pumps

The Zoe Pump is a sleek, patent, peep-toe shoe with a cute cut-out design at the heel.

It comes in pink, black, yellow, and blue (shown at left). The black is more subdued while the pink and yellow are punchy and bright, but the blue is unique. It doesn't scream for attention, but it's not a doormat-esque color either, the hue is elegant and sophisticated.

The colors are like pretty blue skies with just a few (non-rain-producing) clouds in the sky.

Enamel Bangles

Fun arm adornments are huge for spring and the best ones are of course, the most eye-catching.

A bold geometric pattern and bright green enamel come together in this lovely Green Honeycomb Bangle at left.

The Enamel Chain Link Bangle also features an awesome pattern and has several pretty colors.

It's nice to ditch the necklace and just wear bracelets and/or rings to shift the focus of attention once in a while.

Sexy Giraffe Print Pumps

Animal prints are awesome since they come in neutral, earthy tones, but leopard isn't so exciting or different any more. Giraffe is fresh and unique right now, plus it looks so darn good - patches of brown on tan is a great combo that goes with almost any outfit.

These Guess Brittan Pumps in Tan & Brown Giraffe Print look very similar to the Guess Brittania Pumps in Oat Patent that showed up a few weeks ago in this post (asides from the obvious print difference, of course).

It seems so hard to find a pair of great nude pumps or giraffe print pumps, but Guess has delivered on both.

The shoe itself is stunning, but not too practical - it's no easy feat to walk in a 4.5 heel with a platform. If you have the talent required to wear these, definitely snap them up.

A Few Picks from the Bluefly Pre-Spring Sale

Once the weather permits you to release your feet from the boot prisons, hurry to get a pedicure and then don a gorgeous pair of sandals like these Kenneth Cole New York Gold Suede 'Pleat Dreams' Thong Sandals. The color is so sunshine-y and cheery that winter will soon be forgotten.

You don't want to be weighed down when you're taking a leisurely stroll through the park, instead take only the bare necessities in the Linea Pelle Milk Leather 'Dylan' Stud Wristlet. A perfect size with an additional exterior pocket that provides easy access to that cash for buying that lemonade.

Pretty tops are necessary because you can't hide everything under a cute sweater or that adorable coat any more, the Susana Monaco Spring Green Ruched 'Ana' Banded Tank is aptly colored and has pretty gathers but also a tie-back waist for optimal figure flattery.

Last, but not least, what says warm weather more than a pretty, ethereal, silk skirt? The Eva Franco Tangerine Crinkled 'Bali' Silk Chiffon Pleated Skirt is such a phenomenal color with a delightful pattern and the light silk chiffon will have just the right amount of flirty movement.

The weather is supposed to get up to the 40's this week here in Boston - not quite ready for these adorable items yet, but there's no harm in being prepared, right? Bluefly's Pre-Spring Sale ends 2/27 at 6am EST!

Wedges with Cutouts

There's been a lot of shoes out there experimenting with different heels. Among them have been cutout wedges like these. Wedges can sometimes look clunky and heavy, but a section is carved out, they look lighter and more elegant.

The Marciano Carli Peep Toe Platform Wedges at left are just beautiful. The shoe looks like a cross between a strappy sandal and a luxurious peep toe pump. Comes in the shown Purple/Magenta (in satin) combo as well as Gold/Tan and Pewter/Brown (both in leather).

The Nine West Women's Taildrop Platform Sandal is a more familiar slingback sandal shape but updated with the cutout wedge heel. This pretty yellow is ideal for spring.

Bulga 'Kelly' Clutch 40% Off

Turnlocks are so awesome (note the recent love for the MbMJ Turnlock Wallet & Turnlock Heidi).

This is the Bulga Green Lizard Leather 'Kelly' Clutch and it is way more then just a gorgeous brushed goldtone turnlock.

Simply designed, in a bright green (also available in aqua), and crafted from lizard printed leather, this clutch is ideal for day or night.

It also doesn't skimp on practicality either. A wristlet strap is absolutely essential for clutches since it's practically impossible to balance a drink and your clutch while meeting and greeting. To further the efficiency, the strap also tucks neatly inside for a sleeker look.

Cherries and an Elephant

How adorable are these necklaces?

The Silver Cherry Charm Pendant and this Gold Elephant Charm Pendant are so dainty and precious.

They would work with any outfit making these great for everyday wear, but are still special and unique.

Airy Camis + An Outfit

The Braided-Trim Cami (far left) and the Tropical Breezeway Tank are lovely, dressed-up versions of wardrobe staple.

Pair with other wardrobe basics, like a great pair of tailored pants. These Billy Blues Stretch Herringbone Pants have a fabulous subtle pattern that adds some oomph to a basic black pant.

Top off with a cardigan like this great Elbow-Sleeved Waffle Cardigan which comes in a this stunning saturated "geranium" color as well as military blue, ivory frost, and heather grey.

For shoes, basic pumps are great for the office, but for a more casual look, try a pair of fun wedge sandals. These Natural Comfort Women's TM93 T-Strap Wedges are adorable and of course, they feature the pillow-like insoles that Natural Comfort is famous for.

Voilà - a perfectly put-together outfit with easy basics that have a little flair.

Fun Bright Baubles

If you're looking to add pops of great color, try some brightly colored jewelry.

This Frannie Necklace in green/yellow (shown at left) would be perfect with a basic black crewneck sweater. Different necklaces and lots of different shapes make this piece so interesting. And it also comes in black/white and blue/purple.

A plain t-shirt or tank would quickly become best friends with the Kaleidoscope Bracelet. An eclectic mix of colors in a solid bracelet makes this one standout, eyecatching piece.

Commuting Shoes

I was wearing my driving moccasins to work this week and they really are great for driving in. Good grippy soles and soft flexible leathers make this shoe very practical.

These Kingston Suede Driving Mocs are simply adorable.

A rounded, yet tapered toe makes this moc more figure flattering since it doesn't cut off the leg of the line like a squared off toe would, and comes in some beautiful colors like this bold "Fresh Pine." Plus, check that padded leather footbed - that's comfort right there.

Botkier Sale!

Go ahead and drool over this stunning Bryant Large Satchel and then gasp that in bronze, this bag is a mere $260.

Really not much to write about here because the picture of this luxurious leather purse really says it all.

MbMJ Totally Turnlock Heidi

Recently I posted about the adorable MbMJ Turnlock Leather Wallet.

I have also become completely smitten with the wallet's older sibling, the Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Heidi in Poppy. Some extra hardware on the front of the bag helps to balance the tiny turnlock from getting lost on the bag, and the handles are so squooshy and comfortable. In fact, the leather used for this bag (and the rest of the turnlock series) is just phenomenal - it's the type of supple leather that you can't keep your hands off.

I would love to own the Marc by Marc Jacobs Turnlock Wallet AND the Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Heidi and individually, my favorite color for both , but having both in the bright poppy may be overkill.

Maybe it's time to consider the Totally Turnlock Heidi in Mouse Grey. Although, it doesn't have the same kind of stop-you-in-your-racks-and-do-a-double-take power as the poppy does. Oh...decisions decisions...

Coat for 70% Off

This sleek, sophisticated Soia & Kyo Belted Houndstooth Wool Coat boasts a great black/white contrast pattern, fun asymmetrical closure, and flap pockets.

Zip closure coats are so practical since they're quicker and easier to deal with than buttons, especially when you're wearing gloves. The standup collar is a great feature too - keeping your neck protected from the bitter cold.

I can't wait until winter is over, but at least there are some awesome deals on winter clothes right now.

Hot Sweater

This Back Snap Logo Cardigan comes in a color appropriately called "Stop."

Snap details at the neck and on the back make this sweater a little edgy and interesting.

Plus, it's a great deal at $49.99 (marked down from $98.00).

The Math Ring

This Sterling Multi-Gemstone Set of 5 Stack Rings for a mere $49.99, which comes out to just under $10 per ring.

And you can wear this ring numerous ways - just a single ring (5 different color combinations), 2 rings together (10 color combinations), 3 rings together (10 color combinations), 4 rings together (5 color combinations), or 5 rings together (1 color combination).

If you want to get into the unique permutations, go ahead - I just figured out the color combinations and I feel geeky enough.

Anyway - with just color combinations alone, you can have 31 unique color combos (which comes out to roughly $1.61 per color combination)!

Red Dress

This model must have a massive headache because she doesn't understand why more people don't own this Wrap Sweater Dress.

Red is a great color on lots of people and wrap dresses are also great on lots of people. It's just a combination full of greatness.

Oh, and this sexy little number is just $34!

Comfy Shoes/Boots

After perusing the selection of incredibly tall heels out there, it was time for a little change of pace.

Adorable looking shoes that are also comfortable enough to walk in for extended periods of time are all around wonderful finds. Here are a couple that I came across recently.

A great pointy toe flat like the Hot Kiss Jianna Shoes is an essential for a girl who does a lot of walking, but still wants to elongate the length of her line and look taller. The pretty pleated twist detail on the vamp gives a little extra something to this great little flat.

These Comfort Wedges say it all in the name. The description notes that this shoe has a "flexible, padded rubber sole for added cushioning." Also, a little wedge gives a little bit of lift for those who enjoy some extra inches of height.

Another important basic is a comfortable boot that is also good to look at (something that is not so easy to find). These Wedge Ankle Boots have a wedge heel, but also a little bit of a platform (so they won't feel as high when they're on). Platforms also have the added bonus - you can accidentally walk into an icy cold puddle and your foot won't be submerged and soaking. I only wish that these boots came in leather since suede isn't exactly the best material for braving the winter (at least the ones we have here).

Sexy Loafer Pumps?

There's something about these Patent-Trim Platform Pumps that are so alluring. When the stark white/black combo, the sky-high heel, and the platform all joined forces and jazzed up a boring old loafer - this was the result.

These pumps would be great when peeking out from under a pair of work pants, or as attention grabbers when paired with a skirt.

Bright, Patent, Peep-Toe, Mary-Jane Pumps

These Peep-Toe Mary-Jane Pumps are absolutely amazing. The demure Mary-Janes gets a shot of sexy with the addition patent leather and a peep-toe.

For $25, you can rock a pair of these babies, and there's even a plethora of colors (black, white, green, peridot, pink-raspberry, red-pepper, and tuscan-teal) to choose from.

Coats on Sale

It's currently 29 degrees here. The temperature is a good reason to get another coat to wear during these cold days - especially when prices are so great now.

I never thought parkers where chic until I noticed my French friend (mais, bien sur!) wearing one and it looked absolutely fabulous. This Miriam Parker looks like something my friend would approve of and it looks incredibly cozy too.

This Amber Plaid Coat is a fun take on a basic coat. Definitely a nice coat to mix it up and keep your winter wardrobe interesting.

Practical Bags @ Practical Prices

If there's one thing that makes a practical bag even more awesome, it's the addition of exterior pockets. These pockets are especially important to those bigger purses where you throw everything in, then find it impossible to find what you're looking for.

The Hilary Radley Fold-Over Tote Bag (left) has 2 front (a flap pocket and a zipper pocket) and 2 side exterior pockets so you can get to your cell phone, wallet, or keys quickly and easily.

If you don't like the extra bulk on the sides of a bag, this sleek and gorgeous Camel Leather Handbag (right) features 2 exterior pockets on the front and another one in the back - talk about efficiency.

It would be even better if these bags came in more colors since purses are best when they are not only practical and useful, but fun and interesting as well.

Fun Black Pumps

What's not to love about a shiny, Patent Pump with a hot little turnlock?

The toe area is pointy, yet isn't too long/extended.

An easy-to-wear basic that's pretty and dainty but with some hot hardware that toughens it up (but not too much).

Dress It Up

These pretty t-shirt/sweater dresses are wonderfully simple, yet with some added details to up the fun level.

The Silk-Blend Pleated Sweater Dress (left) comes in True Indigo as well as the Marvell Orange (shown). The pleats are sure to add some movement to this bright, cheery dress.

A Belted 3/4 Sleeve Dress (center) in navy would be just wonderful when paired with sandals for a lovely stroll on a sunny, warm day. The rolled sleeves with tabs is a nice touch.

I saw this Colorblock Dress in person today and it is lovely. The 2 colors are really pretty together and while it looks loose and a little baggy on the model, if it's just the right amount of snugness on you, it would be the perfect simple, cute dress for any casual-ish occasion.

Yes, I'm a Sap

I had to post these "Half a Heart" Earrings because they're so unique and simply amazing.

When you wear them, they're like a teardrop/half a heart full of bubbles on each ear, but when you take them off and put them together, they're a heart (which is oh-so-precious).


It's times like these, I wish I had earring holes!


Happy Valentine's Day!

A Litte Bit Mod

Left to right:

Avant Necklace,
Square Window Cuff,
Mod Stick Silver and 18k Gold Earrings,
Mod Cup Ring

A friend mentioned that the kinda-mod-looking Collage Ring that I posted about recently looked like a pretty little piece of art.

Feeling inspired, I went to check out other mod-inspired jewelry that's been popping up here and there because who wouldn't enjoy being a walking piece of art?

Wood Jewelry

Top row (left to right):

Triangle Mod Earrings,
Jessica Veneer Bangle,
Larchmont Wood Bangle,
Center Stone Wooden Bangles,
Gold-Leaf Wooden Bangles

2nd row (left to right):

Lucite and Wood Necklace,
Wood Shapes Necklace

Jewelry made of wood is so wonderfully simple and understated, yet elegant and sophisticated all at the same time.

Pieces with cutouts, stones, lucite, metal accents, different shades of wood, as well as cutting wood into different bead shapes make wood jewelry even more fun and interesting.

And More Shoes!

These Naturalizer Signature Colorado Pumps are just great.

The low-cut, v-shaped vamp and shiny reptile pattern are sexy, but the cushioned collar at the heel is bound to make this shoe really comfortable (and Naturalizer shoes are comfortable to begin with!).

Also, use the code SBK27 for $10 off (ends February 28th).

More Shoes!

While browsing for the aforementioned Poetic License wedges, I stumbled across Lori's Shoes and found some great stuff on sale.

The shoes on the left are the Janet & Janet Pumps in Black (also available in Pisa/grey suede). These are not your basic black flats with the patent/suede combo, and the large button on the side of the vamp. I also like their rounded off, but still pointy toes.

At right are the Graffiti West Pointed Flats in European Brown (also comes in Black Patent, and Black Leather). I have a few pairs of pointy toe flats and I have to say they're wonderful. People assume I'm wearing sky high heels because [a] pointy toes are associated with sky high heels, and [b] a pointy toe always elongates the length of "the line" (which makes you look taller). On these, I really do like the flapover on the vamp since shoes with details make everything more fun (maybe even work).