Handbags – The Beautorialist

THE UPTOWN SATCHEL GETS A NEW SKIN

July 29, 2016March 11, 2019 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

Sometimes you just want an understated satchel, with not too much fuss or muss. It says polished, classy, and elegant. Plus, it saves you when you overcompensate for the lack of details in your accessories, by wearing those brightly colored floral print overalls. (Yes, I saw those in the store. That’s a no and a no for me!)

The Uptown Satchel from Henri Bendel is just that; polished, classy, and elegant! I loved their original pebbled version, but then they revamped the bag a few times with an Ostrich and Crocodile embossed leather. I love exotic skin embossing on an understated bag. It gives it just that little bit of extra detail, without looking overdone.

Their latest Lizard collection keeps the bag classic, but gives it that little bit of trend factor.

The Upton Lizard Satchel in dark red $550

The Uptown Lizard Satchel in Dark Grey $550

The Uptown Lizard Satchel in khaki $550

I just love this Lizard embossing! It is a perfect in between for those who don’t want plain, but also don’t want a bold look. The structured shape is ideal. This large version of Uptown Lizard Satchel will hold a ton of stuff and would make a perfect work bag. There is tons of space and organization inside, with a magnetic close pocket on the back of the bag as well. The sides are also expandable, which is helpful if you tend to be an overstuffer. I love the simple turnlock closure in the front with minimal hardware everywhere else. The gorgeous neutral color options are Fall season ready!

The Uptown MIni Lizard Satchel in dark red $328

The Uptown Mini Lizard Satchel in dark grey $328

The Uptown Mini Lizard Satchel in khaki $328

For those of you who may not want such a large bag as the original, the Uptown Lizard Satchel also comes in a mini version. The mini has all of the same features of its larger counterpart, just in a more compact package. I have seen the mini worn as a crossbody and it really is a perfect size, if you prefer to wear your bags that way.

The only fault I can find with this bag is……..which color?

IT BAG ALERT: THE SCHOOL BAG

July 19, 2016 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

We exist in the era of the cross-body! We’ve seen the reemergence of the saddle bag and the messenger bag. We’ve seen all shapes, sizes, and designs. If the bag has a strap and you can put it across your body, then it’s a cross-body. (Technically it needs to be a manageable size, however).

So what could they possibly come up with next? The schoolbag! From what I am seeing, the schoolbag seems to be 1/3 messenger bag, 1/3 small satchel, and 1/3 lady bag. A love triangle of an accessory!

The designers at Henri Bendel have gotten a jump, and an extremely creative one, on this trend with the newest additions to their West 57th line. Featuring detachable cross-body straps, saffiano leather construction, a top handle, and a very functional size, these lady-like bags will be your new go-tos for a myriad of occasions, casual or formal. Wear these bags with the strap attached for some shopping or traveling, or take the strap off for an evening bag.

West 57th Schoolbag $278

Classic black! Simple, sophisticated, elegant; an accessory staple.

West 57th Floral Applique Schoolbag $350

Chic marries whimsy with this “perfect for that Summer garden party” bag. This bag is designed in a pretty pastel pink saffiano, with the beige and green floral appliques intermingling with one another.

West 57th Schoolbag $328 — West 57th Plaid Schoolbag $328

Burgundy is going to be a key playing colour for the upcoming Fall and Winter seasons and plaids tend to compliment the shade. With a cream, green and blue plaid printed saffiano, you will be able to pair this with so many neutrals.

West 57th Charm Schoolbag $328

Neutral camel coloured saffiano leather is paired with a contrasting black cross-body strap and top handle. This bag also features a detachable charm, so you could easily turn this into a more casual bag.

If I were a betting gal, I would say this latest revelation in cross-body bags could very well turn into a revolution for the world of accessories!

POP THE CLUTCH

March 30, 2016March 30, 2016 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags, Uncategorized

I once came across an article about a 700 year old handbag, which is believed to be the oldest bag in history. It is supposed that the bag originated from Northern Iraq and was crafted around the 1300’s.

This masterfully detailed piece made of brass, silver, and gold was put on display at the Courtauld Gallery in London two years ago. Call me crazy, but this work of art uncannily resembles a clutch.

The skilled craftsmen of the 1300’s got it right then, and Ralph Lauren is getting it right now in our modern age with the creation of his latest accessory, The RL Clutch.

This is probably one of the most sleek and sophisticated clutches since the Hermès Jige and Yves Saint Laurent Monogramme. It is beautiful, classy, and timeless with clean lines and one simplistic detail, the gold-tone logo; which I say is in no way overdone or gaudy.

This is a generous sized clutch with dimensions at 10″l, 5″ h, and 1 1/2″ d, perfect for necessities. Quite fortunately, this happens to come in only one size. I love having options as much as the next person, but when it comes to all of the different sizes available in the exact same bag, it really does make it hard to choose. It took me months to decide on the size of the Marc Jacobs Baroque bag, eventually I went with the XL, and the colour I wanted was almost sold out due to my indecision. Incidentally, I just had a talk with my sister yesterday about more being lost by indecision, than wrong decision, she was mulling over a shoe purchase!

There is only one slip pocket to speak of inside the clutch, but the fact that all of these clutches come with an engraved Ralph Lauren compact mirror and matching shoulder straps, far outweigh any negatives one might find with the lack of organization.

After mentioning the ease of only one size to choose from in this bag, there is another problem; there are so many colours and textures to choose from!

The RL Clutch in Navy Lambskin

The Rl Clutch in Red Lambskin

The RL Clutch in Black Nappa Leather

The RL Clutch in Multi Nappa Leather

The RL Clutch in Cream Nappa Leather

The RL Clutch in Berry Suede

The RL Clutch in Denim

The RL Clutch in White Python

The RL Clutch in Black Python

If I was to choose a favourite I would have to go with the Black Python, I am overly fond of sleek snakeskin textures There will be so many more colours and textures to come I am sure. I am going to go ahead and peg this as an “It Bag”.

My final word on the subject is…….this clutch is perfection!

THE VELVET GOLDMINE

December 7, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Clothing, Handbags, Shoes, Uncategorized

I cannot think of a more sumptuous cold weather fabric than velvet. It can however, be somewhat of a challenge to wear. Velvet clothing certainly has a tendency to exude a dated look, but this year designers are doing it well and proper with jackets, tailored dresses and pants, and elegant accessories. This season, velvet has never been so chic!

Rachel Pally Velvet Nori Skirt and Laila Top $81.60-$120.60

We might as well start out with this gorgeous plum top and skirt from Rachel Pally. I love that most velvet pieces I am seeing are jewel tones and rich colours.

GIgi Burris Hyacinth Velvet Headband $385

Headbands are starting to become popular again. I am not sure what you would wear this with, but it is certainly unique.

Badgley Mischka Velvet Ruched Gown $556

Imagine wearing this to a formal Christmas party. This is one of the most gorgeous dresses I have ever seen. I love understated elegance!

Gianvito Rossi Velvet High-Heel Pump $950

Black velvet shoes are usually the standard, but this year there are so many different shades from neutrals to jewel tones, to metallic shades.

Nanette Lepore Long Sleeve Velvet Paisley Dress $358.40

This is such a gorgeous myriad of colours!

Tory Burch Hallandale Flat $295

Classic black velvet flats.

Altuzarra Paneled Velvet Devore Peplum Dress $2,306 — Altuzarra
Paneled Velvet Devore Peplum Dress $2,306

I actually thought this was two separate pieces at first, but it is a lovely tailored dress. Just enough ruffle detail.

Eileen Fisher Washable Velvet Wrap Scarf $198

Very good quality velvet most of the time requires dry cleaning, but Eileen Fisher has come up with this washable velvet fabrics; which makes it so much easier to wear the pieces throughout the season.

Eileen Fisher Stretch Velvet Ankle Leggings $138

Velvet leggings are everywhere! I am loving these by Eileen Fisher the most, however. Her pieces last forever.

TOM FORD TF Velvet Ankle Bootie $819 — Tom Ford TF Velvet Ankle Bootie $819

Always add Tom Ford into the mix! These booties are gorgeous and simple.

Burberry London Peak Lapel Velvet Evening Jacket $1,595

It takes a certain type of man to pull off a velvet jacket. I say Tom Ford and Sherlock Holmes are some of the very few men who can, but why not be bold?

Free People Dreams Lace Trim Tunic Dress $168

This is so feminine, simple, and elegant!

For Love & Lemons Heather Minidress $216

This sheer piece can easily be worn during all seasons in my opinion, it is just too beautiful to only wear during Winter.

Free People Slouchy Velvet Blazer $168

Keeping up with the slouchy jackets of this past season, this velvet jacket is a versatile piece.

Marc By Marc Jacobs Semona Velvet Biker Bomber Jacket $263

If you are a bomber jacket kind of gal, this is one of the better tailored ones I have seen.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Domo Biker Velvet Backpack $498 — Marc by Marc Jacobs
Domo Biker Velvet Backpack $498

Three of this years trends come together, zippered detailing, velvet, backpack!

Charlotte Olympia Velvet Bouquet Clutch Bag $580

This would be an evening bag that you could use year round. I love Charlotte Olympia!

Jonquil Moonlight Velvet Long Wrap Robe $140

I love cozy robes! This is going on my Christmas list! So sumptuous.

Kate Spade Scarlett Slippers $78

If you are going to get a velvet robe, you might as well get slippers too!

Manolo Blahnik Gorina Velvet Polka-Dot Pump $825

These pumps would look lovely with any of this seasons black velvet dresses. Carrie Bradshaw approved!

If reading all of this has not convinces you to love velvet, I do not know what will! Have you picked up any velvet additions to your wardrobe?

IT BAG ALERT, THE SADDLE BAG

November 8, 2015November 8, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

The saddle bags of the past were originally designed for military dispatch riders. They have that unmistakable crescent shape, which is actually quite feminine in my opinion. Along with today’s messenger bags, the newest saddle bags are a perfect example of a designer mixing form, function, tradition, and ingenuity

The cross-body bag has reigned supreme for the past few years, but they might need to move over a spot or two to make room for their lovely sisters!

: Chloe Drew Small Shoulder Bag $1,950

The Chloe Drew bag has surpassed all other saddle bag designs in my mind. There are two different sizes, and neither are too small. This small version is quite literally the perfect size for a small bag. There are so many different variations and colours. Chloe nailed it!

: Chloe Drew Small Shoulder Bag $1,850

The Drew in a lovely wine shade for Fall/Winter.

: Chloe Drew Nano Floral Leather Saddle Bag $1,950

Metal embellishments make this Drew a statement piece that is trendy, yet will stay a classic.

: Chloe Drew Small Python Shoulder Bag $3,990

Multi coloured python print is right on league with the past seasons lingering boho prints.

Chloe Marcie Mini Saddle Bag $750

A little more minimalist than the Drew, this grey Marcie is a great everyday neutral.

: Salvatore Ferragamo Rosette Small Saddle Crossbody Bag $1,290

Overlapping pieces of leather on the flap give this one a modern and classy look.

: Michael Kors Bedford Leather Crossbody $106

This is such a great deal right now, I believe this colour is from the Spring collection.

: Loeffler Randall Saddle Bag $395

Classic black with the trendy new black hardware.

: Henry Beguelin Molly Small Croc Stamped Messenger Bag $1,250

Vintage croc.

: Rebecca Minkoff Astor Laser Cut Leather Saddle Bag $295

I have been seeing a ton of laser cuts in bags lately. Tory Burch did some lovely ones this past Spring and Summer. The laser cutting does tend to have a warmer weather vibe to it, but this bag proves the trend can go either way.

: Tom Ford Jennifer Medium Leather Saddle Bag $1,990

Tom Ford, need more words be spoken?

: Tory Burch Embroidered Medium Saddle Bag $795

There is certainly still a western vibe to some of the latest Fall and Winter collections. Tons of suede, fringe, and crops of riding boots. This Tory bag would go nicely with suede.

: Tory Burch Frances Leather Saddle Bag $450

This is a slightly pebbled leather, and I love Tory’s pebbled leathers. They are soft and well made. The tassel gives this one just enough flair!

Have you jumped in the saddle bag yet?

THE MESSENGER BAG GETS A SLEEK UPDATE

July 28, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

Messenger bags continue to prove that they are so much more chic than the utilitarian, purely functional accessories they used to be. The messenger was not something I particularly thought of as elegant, until the Proenza Schouler PS1. That was the game changer, and since the PS1 I have remained conscious of any new updated messenger styles.

Leave it to Tory Burch to design exactly what I have been looking for!

: Tory Burch 797 Satchel $525

The 797! It is part messenger bag, part briefcase, part satchel, and mostly gorgeous!

Have I ever said how much I love Tory Burch’s discreet logos?

The 797 is quite structured for having a pebbled leather exterior. It is just large enough to carry essentials and more, yet it is small enough to give it that compact messenger feel when the shoulder strap is utilized.

It really is quite roomy. I do not see why a tablet wouldn’t fit in here. Of course there are other pockets inside for additional organization.

The satchel is certainly my pick, but for those who want something a bit smaller, Tory has thought of that too. The mini and the tiny are also available.

I am in love!

REBECCA MINKOFF FALL 2015 COLLECTION PREVIEW IN NYC

July 10, 2015July 10, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Clothing, Handbags, Jewelry, Random Musings

Do you live in New York City? If so consider yourself lucky, because you will very soon have the opportunity to preview Rebecca Minkoff’s Fall 2015 collection at her flagship store in Soho.

The preview event is taking place on Tuesday, July 14th, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Apparently Rebecca herself is going to be there!

: By illustrator Blair Breitenstein

You will also be able to see some wonderful custom portraits by the amazingly talented fashion illustrator, Blair Breitenstein! Have a look at her website to see more of her work.

: Classic Red Lip

So far I think this is my most favourite piece she has done. It would look great hanging in my bathroom I think!

Living in New York City would be completely ideal right about now!

COLOUR-BLOCKING BOLD ACCESSORIES

June 27, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Clothing, Handbags, Jewelry, Shoes

COLOUR_BLOCKING BOLD ACCESSORIES

The colour-blocking trend is one that can seem overwhelming if you do not know where to start. Mixing bold and vibrant colours to make up an entire outfit is certainly not for everyone. The easiest way to get a chic look without feeling like you are overdoing it is by colour-blocking bold accessories against a plain black dress.

One of my favourite colour-blocking combos is cobalt blue and bright pink. Jewel tones are a more subdued way to go if you do not like uber bright colours.

What do you think of colour-blocking?

Rachel Pally dress / Dsquared2 black sandals / Kate spade wallet / Coppola e Toppo bead bracelet / Kendra Scott necklace / Tom Ford aviator sunglasses

MY BIRTHDAY JUBILATION

June 26, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Bath and Body, Food, Hair, Handbags, Makeup, Random Musings, Skincare

Yesterday was my birthday, and a wonderful one it was at that! I started the day off doing absolutely nothing. It was my birthday after all, and I should be allowed a day of complete R&R right?

My husband got me my favourite gourmet cupcakes. There were actually more of them, but I started eating them before I took the photo.

I got to go on a bit of a shopping spree! When in doubt my husband just gets me gift cards. My mom even got me a Sephora gift card this year!

: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

I love this for my body on those dry Winter days, but you can actually use this on your face as well. I have started using it as a “sealer” after all of my other skincare treatments in the evening. It is just the best all-purpose cream to have around.

: Make Up Forever Mist and Fix

This is my favourite makeup setting spray. It is alcohol free and really works to make your makeup last on a hot day, which we have been getting plenty of those lately.

: L’Occitane Imortelle Divine Youth Oil

I can’t say that I have tried every facial oil out there, but I have tried a few and this one is hands down my favourite. It soaks into my skin better than any other one I have tried, and it makes my skin just glow. It does not leave a terribly greasy after feel like most facial oils tend to do. It smells great and has yet to clog my pores. I really cannot say enough about this oil.

: NUFace Collagen Booster B1

My new favourite serums are officially the ones from NUFace. They soak in quickly and I am seeing some great results so far. They are not pore clogging and are fragrance, alcohol, and paraben free. You do not get a great deal of product, but they are thin in consistency so it does not take much to spread a good amount onto your face.

: Make Up Forever Artist Shadow in D124 Crystalline White

This is the perfect shimmery white shadow. I use this for an array of highlighting purposes.

: Diorskin Forever Compact in 010 Ivory

This is fast becoming my new favourite powder. The texture is amazing with buildable light to medium coverage. The ivory shade matches my skin perfectly. It seriously does not feel heavy or look cakey at all.

: Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Spray

Living Proof recently reformulated their revitalizing spray with a heat protectant, so naturally I had to try it. I love it. It dries instantly and my air does not feel fried after using it.

: Algenist Hydrating Essence Toner

After years and years of using my trusted Clinique toner, I have decided to switch to this one. It is alcohol free like the Clinique one, which was really the deciding factor, but there are so many other benefits to this one. Namely there is no silicones! I will elaborate on that in a later post. If you are looking for a pretty perfect toner, give this one a try.

: Nars Satin Lip Pencil in Rikugien

I got a sample size of this pencil in my Sephora birthday gift, and I love it! It stays on for quite awhile, and I love the colour. It is the perfect nude rosy pink.

: Chanel Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour in Cecile

This is my favourite YLBB lipstick. I do not like ultra glossy finishes, they just do not last long and I loathe when my hair sticks to my lips. This gives just enough sheer pigment for me when applied lightly.

: Fresh Sugar Lip Polish

This lip polish is currently my favourite after the Mac lip scrub was discontinued. It smells like brown sugar, vanilla, and lemon. I find myself wanting to eat it sometimes.

So, remember that post I did about the runway Rebecca Minkoff Rylan tote? I did say that I wanted it for my birthday and I believe I mentioned somewhere that I was willing to shamelessly grovel to my husband about it. Well………he surprised me! He did get the black one, and I am so glad he did. It will go with so much more than the lavender shade would have. The leather is so soft and so on par with Rebecca Minkoff quality. It is an eye-catcher for sure. The details are amazing. The fringe is well done and not messy looking.

We went to dinner at one of my favourite sushi restaurants, and they took forever serving us this time. I ate it so fast I didn’t even think about taking photos. I had so many dear friends and family members there, it was wonderful. Those amazing people are truly what made it so special. Best birthday yet!

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: GUCCI PRE-FALL COLLECTION

June 14, 2015June 14, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Clothing, Handbags

And so it goes with the commencement of Summer, fashion designers start to reveal their Fall collections. I get particularly excited about it because the Fall season is the most fashionable to me. Here is a quick peek at what Gucci has in store for the upcoming Fall season.

: Wool Double-Breasted Trenchcoat, Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Top & Wool Skinny Flare Pant

Peacock blue! Jewel tones are still in, and I am so in love with them. I finally found the perfect magenta wool coat, and I was looking for one in turquoise. I knew it was a long shot, and I didn’t find one. The preview of this collection gives me a glimmer of hope however. There is a particular cream sweater dress I have that is in desperate need of a turquoise layer.

: Triangle Print Silk Dress

I only have one silk dress, which is regrettable since silk makes for some of the most beautiful clothes.

: Viscose Jersey Belted Dress

Classic red dress! I found out long ago that there is so much you can do with a red dress. So many options to color-block with accessories and outerwear.

: Leaves Jacquard Wool Coat, Satin Georgette Shirt & Felted Herringbone Ankle Pant

Cropped pants! The embroidered coat has me piqued my interest. When I think of blatant floral embroidery, I think of quilts, hideous PVC sofas, and the dresses my mom used to make me wear. This is something altogether different. I am loving this with the red details.

: Leaves Print Silk Cape Shirt & Black Stretch Cotton Skinny Pant

A silk cape is just the most ingenious thing. I am not one for bulky sweater capes, not everything looks flattering on everyone unfortunately. A cape in a silk fabric would give you such a nice and fluid movement though. Love it, and the new “leaves” print.

: Leaves Print Embroidered Silk Gown

Simply stated, If I was a celebrity going to an event; this is the dress I would pick.

: Merino Ribbed Crewneck Top & Leather Panel Skirt

The leather skirt. How elusive it is for me! I almost bought a black leather Bagatelle pencil skirt not too long ago, I ultimately decided against it as it still was not a very good fit. It is difficult to get a leather skirt tailored. I think a skirt with this silhouette would be easier to wear. I detect a bit of a Western/Bohemian vibe to this outfit.

: Embroidered Leather Dress

This leather dress is embroidered with studs. Was there ever such a statement?

: Double Wool Wrap Coat, Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater & Wool Flannel Skinny Flare Pant

This would be too much khaki except for the fact that the ensemble is paired with a dark contrasting shoe.

: Bamboo Shopper Large Calf Hair Tote Bag, Chocolate

I was thinking there was going to be a Western feel to some of the pieces this year. You can’t get anymore Western themed than with this bag. I like the incorporation of the bamboo handles. Gucci also did the bamboo handles for the Spring collection bags.

: Miss Bamboo Medium Python Bucket Bag, Multi

The bucket bag+snake skin print= the it bag of the season. I am calling it, let’s see if I am right. This one goes beyond the basic with not only the bamboo handle as well, but with the addition of a removable chain strap.

: Linea B Python Medium Shoulder Bag, Pink Multicolor

It looks like the mini, chain strap cross-body bags are not going anywhere anytime soon. I still cannot bring myself to invest in too many, as I do not use them that often. I just carry too much stuff on a regular basis. Gucci does this snake skin print wonderfully. Personally I like snake skin print, but it is a tricky trend to do without looking tacky. This mini bag is subtle and just enough statement.

: Leather And Knit Biker Jacket, Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater & Stone Washed Stretch Ripped Denim Pant

Edgy and chic, tailored leather jackets with distressed and ripped denim. This is a trend that I like with a feminine touch, such as a pair of stilettos. I am detecting there will be nuances of fringe from last Fall in other collections this year as well. Fringe details are a love em or leave em sort of thing, but I think they would compliment this particular look.

: Felted Bonded Herringbone Peacoat, Wool-Mohair Embroidered Jacquard Sweater, Octagonal Jacquard Satin Embroidered Shirt, Stone Washed Stretch Ripped Denim Pant

This look is made softer around the edges with a feminine bag and classic Jacquard sweater.

: Octagonal Jacquard Wool Embroidered Coat, Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater & Wool Skinny Flare Pant

This is the perfect example of the sophisticated elegance I love about Fall fashion. The feminine cut of this one just lends even more to its classiness. I really am excited to see what is going on in footwear to compliment these pants other than the shoes shown.

: Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater & Octagonal Jacquard 1960s Pant

I am bereft that Mad Men is officially over. One of the reasons why is because I will not get to see the fabulous costumes they get to wear. I am so in love with these pants. The entire outfit is just….everything.

: Wool Octogonal Jacquard Dress

Betty Draper would wear this!

: Compact Viscose Jersey Dress

I am not sure that you can have too many black dresses. My husband would say that they all look too similar. This is a man’s perspective. They are all actually going to be different in some way. This one for example is a classy mock-neck that gives it just enough detail. I am not sure that you even need anything else with an outfit like this.

: Viscose Stretch Knit Dress

See completely different! I love the pleating!

: Wool Coat, Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater & Wool Skinny Flare Pant

Head to toe black with a contrasting cream coat just makes the most sense. I am not sure that I even have a black turtleneck sweater. This is going to be critical mass come Fall. It always happens to me that the one thing I am looking for specifically, I cannot seem to find.

What do you think of the Gucci pre-fall collection?

COACH SEMI-ANNUAL SALE REVEAL

May 30, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

Some of you may remember my recent post about the Coach Semi-Annual Sale about a week ago. Well today I got a package!

Oh yes!!!

Here she is! I decided to get the Gramercy Satchel in Mink. I am loving the croc-embossing, it makes it timeless. This is the perfect neutral to wear with anything. It is a warm grey, but depending on what you are wearing it with, it can look like a light taupe brown. I love the turn-lock closures, they are secure yet make the bag very easy to get into. The hang-tag on the front actually has a flap that flips open to reveal a little information card, you know, in case you lose it and someone finds it. (I think I would die of shame if I did lose it though!) This does come with a shoulder strap, but I never use them. I love the size. I actually thought it would be larger, but it is the perfect in between size. Not too big, nor too small. It fits all of my stuff and more.The turn-locks on the sides come open so you can expand and fit more things. It will not fit a laptop, but it will accommodate a smaller tablet when the sides are expanded.

She is just so beautiful! The only complaint I would have with this bag is that the leather is a bit smooth and more matte in finish. Aesthetically that is not a bad thing, it just means it is more likely to show scratches if you are not careful. I love it so much though, it will very easily transition between all seasons. This will pair beautifully with all of your whites, yellow, light pinks, and light blues for summer; then on to your blacks, burgundys, navys, and dark greens for winter. So versatile. I do believe this one is still on the Coach website for now, so if you are wanting it you should consider purchasing soon as they tend to sell out quickly.

What do you think of my new Gramercy? Did you get anything at the Coach sale yet?

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA

May 17, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags, Shoes

If ever whimsy was an art form, which it is, Charlotte Olympia would have it down to a “T”. Her shoes and accessories are just so delightfully fanciful. I have kept my eye on this London based designer since shortly after her brand launched in 2008. I always look forward to seeing what she comes up with next!

First let’s talk about her shoes. Imagine what the offspring of a Picasso painting and a pair of Jimmy Choo’s would look like. That is how I would describe most of her shoes designs. There are others with a more subtle makeup, but the vivid ones are what she is known for. Just enjoy the eye candy!

: Celebration Meredith Embroidered Wedge Sandal

These belong at the most elegant of garden parties!

: Dolly Studs Platform Pump

Reminiscent of Dipping Dots, these call for a red silk dress!

: Daisy PVC Ankle Wrap Sandal

If I could get married all over again, these would be my wedding shoes!

: Debbie Embroidered Suede Platform Pump

These are vixenous! Yes, I made up that word. I just love that little flash of red you get on the bottom of the sole.

: Love Me Heart Applique Pump

Never has there ever been a shoe that was more meant to wear on Valentine’s day………until these. They are my favourite so far from her newest collection.

: Arizona Suede Trim Mesh Platform Sandal

With a blue Turquoise statement necklace….that’s all I have to say.

Now for the bags! She does some amazing clutch designs. They are all pretty much of a solid construction, mostly acrylic.

: Lime Shape Perspex Clutch

With the garden party shoes, I know!

: Kandinsky Printed Pandora Clutch

This is her popular Pandora style. It gets new prints so often. This design represents the epitome of colour blocking!

: Pandora Clear PomPom Clutch

I would wear all black and just let that pompom on top be my “flash of bold colour”.

: Kitty Square Acrylic Box Clutch

Who doesn’t want a clutch with a kitty cat face on it?

What do you think of the latest from Charlotte Olympia?

I WENT TO MACYS FOR JUST A FEW THINGS AND……….

March 23, 2015June 10, 2015 by The Beautorialist, posted in Clothing, Handbags, Jewelry, Makeup

Happy Sunday to all! I hope everyone is having a great weekend. Last weekend I went to Macy’s to get a few things that I had gotten during their pre-sale days. If you have never done a pre-sale at Macy’s you absolutely should. You just take the items you want and buy them at the sale price but then you pick them up on the day of the actual sale. This particular sale is great because you usually get a V.I.P pass that gives you a discount on things that do not go on sale very often, like designer handbags! The only things not eligible for the pre-sale would be cosmetics and fragrances.

: Giani Bernini Sterling Silver Cleopatra Necklace

Isn’t this necklace just gorgeous? I have a feeling I am going to be using this quite often. It goes with everything!

: Giani Bernini Sterling Silver Hinged Cuff Bracelet

This is another gorgeous piece! Who doesn’t love shiny sterling silver?

: Giani Bernini Sterling Silver Graduated Bead Necklace

These beads are actually pretty bold and large. I love subtle statement jewelry!

: Coach Turnlock Borough Bag

Be still my own heart! How beautiful is this? They had only one! I was powerless to resist!

: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Ultra Lipstick in Rose

I love this lipstick! It is a true rosey nude with no orange undertone at all! It is creamy and semi-sheer and does not seem to dry out my lips. I love the gold metal casing, it reminds me of the glamorous lipsticks that the classic Hollywood starlets would use.

: Lancme Maquicomplet Complete Coverage Concealer in Ivoire

I normally do not need to use under-eye concealer unless I did not get enough sleep the night before. This one from Lancôme is my absolute favorite right now. The Ivorie shade has a yellow undertone which helps to disguise dark circles. It is creamy and does not crease. I only use a dot or two and that is usually enough. I like it better than the Nars concealer.

: Elle Tahari Walking Jacket

Hello red!!! I love Elle Tahari jackets. They are so well made and tailored. This is actually a separate for a suit. I wish there had been some more bold colors like purple or kelly green.

: Ralph Lauren Printed Dress

Can anyone guess why I bought this dress? If you guessed because I am pairing it with the red Elle Tahari jacket, you guessed 100% right!

: Calvin Klein Jersey Maxi Dress

This dress is so chic and comfortable! I am not intending to wear it with the black belt though. I was thinking of a wide gold belt or even white. There are just so many ways you can accessorize this dress.

Did you do any shopping last weekend?

NEW TORY BURCH BAGS

March 3, 2015March 11, 2019 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

It is about 30° outside right now, but the sun is shining something major, so by all outward appearances from within it looks like Spring. That seemed reason enough for me to check out the latest in Tory Burch handbags for Spring!

: T-Lock Printed Patent Tote $595

How fun is this? Printed patent leather mixed with saffiano leather on the front pocket, makes for the ultimate in a mixed media design. Notice the subtle “T” lock on the front. I love how she keeps her signature logo understated. I can just imagine this with a white linen maxi dress with silver stilettos! My vacation wear ideas are coming together slowly!

: Robinson Stitched Adjustable Shoulder Bag $425

Yellow and Spring just go together, it is a universal fact! Loving the diamond stitching detail and the Chanel-esque chain straps. This bag comes in a few other colors as well, but who wouldn’t want this canary yellow?

: Frances Color-Block Slouchy Satchel $495

This just screams Spring sophistication! I think it might be my favorite one. I love color-blocking and this bag also comes in a black and white option. This bag is done in pebbled leather, which Tory Burch always does pebbled leather particularly well. This bag will hold a ton, the depth is over 6″. While pebbled leather is definitely on the softer side, this bag seems to have more structure. That is how you know if you have quality pebbled leather or not. The leather should be thick and should stand on its own and not slouch too much. I have an extremely well made Coach and Kate Spade that still keeps their shape when I set it down. The fact that it comes with a detachable shoulder strap would make this an ideal bag for traveling as well.

: Frances Satchel $525

When I was around 20 years old I decided for myself that pink was a neutral! Well softer pinks obviously, not hot pink, although I am partial to hot pink. This is another pebbled leather design that also comes in some other neutrals for those of you who do not like pink, although I am not sure why you wouldn’t. This bag is also very large, and I love how Tory Burch does great organization in her bags. A neat feature for this bag is that the open winged sides can actually be utilized. You could slip your phone, keys, or even sunglasses in there.

This post has put me in a particularly good mood, but anything handbag related usually does! Which is your favorite?

LATEST BAGS FROM KATE SPADE

February 24, 2015March 11, 2019 by The Beautorialist, posted in Handbags

You can never go wrong with Kate Spade!!! I always get so excited when I see that “New Arrivals” email in my inbox.

: Cedar Street Hayden $358

This is a great neutral. I love the tone on tone look. This one is done in saffiano leather, so it is durable and scratch resistant. This style also comes in black and a hot pink color. I have one of Kate Spade’s bags in saffiano and I think she does it really well. If you love the Michael Kors’ saffiano bags then you will love hers. They are amazing!

: Emerson Place Hayden $478

This one features a quilted nappa leather body and smooth leather sides. I love that she included a signature hang tag with this one. This one also comes in all black and an all cream color.

: Madison Regina Street Renata $548

This bag is so gorgeous! It is on the smaller side, but it is completely a lady-bag. This is woven, lacquered Italian leather! I really want to see this one in person. You can wear this as a cross-body as well. I do so wish this one came in a larger version.

: Shaw Street Keegan $548

This one is my absolute favorite! I love the lavender snake-skin embossed front panel. This one also comes in a cream and black combo, but how can you not love that lavender? This is a roomy one and so lady like. I will most likely scoop this one up before long. It is just too pretty!

Which one is your favorite?

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