Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Fashion: Tie-Dye Bags Spring Summer 2010

For Spring we have already showcased two major handbag trends, denim bags and perforated leather bags. A third bag trend that we continue to see, and possibly the trend for Spring 2010 that will be seen most frequently, are tie-dye bags.


Tie-Dye has made its way into Spring collections by contemporary and premium designers alike, each using different techniques to add the trendy effect. While some used a tie-dye-like effect accomplished by folding leather of two tones, other designers showed multiple color dye compilations.


Spring generally signals a fresh start; not only does the weather get brighter and warmer but also people give their homes an annual cleanup. Don’t neglect your wardrobe each spring, as it too needs a refreshing change. If you decide to go tie-dye, pick a versatile purse shape that you can imagine using for various occasions. Big, roomy hobos and totes and small, compact evening clutches are always a safe route.
Below are eight of my favorite tie-dye picks for Spring:
Lauren Merkin Diana Rainbow Clutch ($195)

One of the most recognizable clutch designers is Lauren Merkin, who designed a tye-dye clutch exclusively for ShopBop that caught our attention. The glazed, snakeskin-print leather is adored with a colorful and playful rainbow pattern. For the shopper looking to try this trend without breaking bank, this clutch is the perfect starting point.
Rebecca Minkoff Easy Rider Clutch ($375)

Rebecca Minkoff is continuously on-trend, showing both perforated leather bags and tie-dye bags for Spring 2010. The Easy Rider Clutch is my pick, giving us a Bohemian-inspired tie-dye leather with studs and zipper accents on the outside.
Coach Embossed Exotic Ombre Large Charm Tote ($598)

This bag is a little more ombre and a little less tie-dye, but still fits into the trend. Coach continues to design a wide range of handbags and accessories to appeal to a large range of shoppers. From the new Charm collection, this tote features embossed leather with a deep gleaming ombre color which adds a colorful effect.
Katherine Kwei Donna Clutch ($700)

Known for using an ancient knotting technique, Katherine Kwei’s designs always stand out. The Donna Clutch, a favorite among the PurseBlog team, has been recreated in a black and white tie-dye pattern for Spring as well. Her treatment leaves the bag looking like a smoky white/grey/black combination.
Be&D Garbo Satchel ($1,090)

When I saw this bag and other Be & D bags processed in this manner, the sumptuously soft calfskin still stands out in my mind. The wash technique Be & D uses to perform their tie-dye like effect is called an Ikat wash. What I can tell you is that the process and materials used will not disappoint. There are darker blue/black combinations as well, but the light neutral treatment catches my attention. This specific bag is at Saks Fifth Avenue New York City, Dadeland, Beverly Hills, and Houston.
Donna Karan Eldridge ($1,495)
Donna Karan Eldridge
The Donna Karan Eldridge is one of the first tie-dye bags that we saw for Spring 2010 online. The Eldridge is a stand out bag because of its four-ways-to wear and pleated leather. This version, exclusive to Net-A-Porter, features pleated crease-print with black and white coloring.
Bottega Veneta Superlight Aquilone ($1,550)

Right after this Bottega Veneta bag hit the runway, the handbag world was a buzz about the Superlight Aquilone bag from the house of Bottega Veneta. The leather is folded randomly and then the skin is pressed. Once the skins are ready they are dyed and when dry opened to reveal the two-tone effect which shoes varying shades of the color and white. This bag is a testament to Tomas Maier’s innovative brilliance.
Jimmy Choo Robin ($1,595)

Not just known for shoes, Jimmy Choo continues to expand into the handbag world. Also on trend, the Robin from Jimmy Choo was recreated in a colorful tie-dye leather on an exotic Elaphe snake bag. This tie-dye bag gives us an unstructured, Bohemian vibe.
Derek Lam Nadia Hobo ($3,950)

As previously reviewed on PurseBlog, the Derek Lam Nadia Hobo uses neutral hues in its color palette. The tie-dye effect is evident yet so subtly used that it works beautifully. Some of the tie-dye bags show intense colors, but the Derek Lam Nadia Hobo is so subtle in its execution that it is one of the best true tie-dye bags of the season. For this version, contact Derek Lam NYC.












resource: http://www.prweb.com/releases/PurseBlog/SpringTrendTieDyeBags/prweb3805044.htm
Fort Lauderdale, FL (PRWEB) March 30, 2010 -- PurseBlog.com, the web’s most active fashion forum devoted to authentic designer handbags, has released their list of top picks for this year’s major spring trend: tie-dye bags. Contemporary and premium designers alike have incorporated the tie-dye trend into their spring 2010 lines, using an array of different techniques, fabrics and colors.
News Image"This season’s tie-dye handbags are perfect for bringing an interesting refresh into your spring wardrobe,” said Meaghan Mahoney Dusil, Founder and Editor of PurseBlog. “With a variety of shapes, sizes and price points on the market, tie-dye has definitely become one of the trends we are seeing most frequently for spring.”
PurseBlog’s full review of this season’s nine best tie-dye handbags can be found at http://www.purseblog.com/spring-trend-tie-dye-bags/. Their top picks, which range in price from $195 to nearly $4,000, are as follows:


Lauren Merkin Diana Rainbow Clutch
Designed exclusively for ShopBop, this tie-dye clutch has glazed, snakeskin-print leather with a colorful and playful rainbow pattern.
Rebecca Minkoff Easy Rider Clutch
Featuring Bohemian-inspired tie-dye leather with studs and zipper accents on the outside, this clutch is one of the tie-dye options from Rebecca Minkoff’s Spring 2010 Collection.


Coach Embossed Exotic Ombre Large Charm Tote
From Coach’s new Charm collection, this tote features embossed leather with a deep gleaming ombre color that adds a colorful effect.
Katherine Kwei Donna Clutch
Known for using an ancient knotting technique, Katherine Kwei has recreated her Donna Clutch in a black and white tie-dye like pattern that leaves the bag looking like a smoky white/grey/black combination.
Be&D Garbo Satchel
The sumptuously soft calfskin is processed with a unique wash technique to create the tie-dye like effect, which is available in darker blue/black combinations and a light neutral treatment.
Donna Karan Eldridge
This version of the Eldridge, exclusive to NetAPorter, features pleated crease-print with black and white coloring.
Bottega Veneta Superlight Aquilone
A testament to Tomas Maier’s innovative brilliance, the Superlight Aquilone’s leather is given a unique treatment, creating a two-tone effect that shows varying shades of the color and white.
Jimmy Choo Robin
The Robin from Jimmy Choo was recreated in a colorful tie-dye leather on an exotic Elaphe snake bag, giving us an unstructured, Bohemian vibe.
Derek Lam Nadia Hobo
While some tie-dye bags show intense colors, the Derek Lam Nadia Hobo uses neutral hues and is so subtle in its execution that it is one of the best true tie-dye bags of the season.


About PurseBlog
PurseBlog.com is an online fashion magazine and social network dedicated to designer handbags. Combining a unique editorial with an active forum of over 250,000 registered members, PurseBlog is the premier online destination for purse enthusiasts to learn about the latest handbags trends and styles from designers including Marc Jacobs, Chanel and Jimmy Choo. PurseBlog’s family of sites includes PurseForum, PurseBlog Savvy and BagThatStyle.com.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Marchesa Bridal Collection 2010 - Breathless


Ethereal. Dreamy. Gorgeous. Divine. Sophisticated. Fashion-forward. One of a kind. Stunning. Beautiful. These are just a few words to describe the 2010 Spring Bridal Collection from Marchesa.

Take a look and see if you agree . . .
 You can find Marchesa at Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue
For the brides maid at Neiman Marcus:

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

$50 & Under: 7 Spring Break Essentials


Wednesday, 03/24/2010
Got a beach getaway planned soon? Here are some must-haves to take with you, starting with a cute carry-all for schlepping your stuff to the beach or bottles of water and snacks when you go sightseeing. Striped tote bag, $34, available at newportnews.com
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Comfy wear-with-everything sandals so you don’t need a separate bag just for shoes. Pierre Duma Carla-2 sandal, $30, available at endless.com
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A nice white frock to dress up or down.Cleo crochet dress, $44.50, available at delias.com
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A straw fedora to give that pretty face a little extra sun protection. (This one comes in eight colors.) Grosgrain Border Straw Fedora, $28, available at nordstrom.com
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A black one-piece for the day you’ve got a little vacay-bloat from indulging in all those margaritas. (You may not need it, but good to have just in case.) Ruffled swimsuit, $30, available at oldnavy.com
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A pair of cheapie shades you won’t stress about if you lose.    Oversized             ombre crystal sunglasses, $10, available at urbanoutfitters.com
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A cover-up that actually covers you up. What is with those see-through sarong thingies, anyway? You might as well not be wearing anything. And this one can double as a dress—hey, now that they charge for overweight bags, packing light is a definite Do. Chambray cover-up, $34.50, available at gap.com
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resource: http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/slaves-to-fashion/2010/03/50-under-7-spring-break-essent.html

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Fashion: Polka Dots for Spring/Summer 2010

Betsey Johnson Miami Chic Drop Earrings
Betsey Johnson Miami Chic Earrings
$35.00
Available at: nordstrom.com
Polka dots are a fun loving style that has existed since way before my time. It’s true that this super hip trend can look juvenile if worn wrong, but it also can add a lot of spunk to a simple look, like the polka dots worn high necked and long by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. She wore a brown dress with white polka dots, and polished off the look with red lipstick. Keeping the look simplistic is what makes her look so admirable.

As usual, I like to ease into some trends. There are those who are hesitant to embrace the polka dot trend, including me at times. So, why not try some girly earrings with a fun up-do. Betsey Johnson’s Miami Chic Drop Earrings are polka-dot hearts surrounded by little sparkly stones that drip down from a tiny black rose.




Heading closer to Julia’s classy outfit, my favorite polka dot dress-- the DKNY Combo Dot Tank Dress-- suits the warm season’s trends with its short hemline. With its retro stripes, polka dots and floppy sash belt this dress is something right out of the hit '50s show Mad Men. I adore this dress because it’s not a polka dot overload, but a simplified version of a classic look that will never lose its charm. The dress looks like it’s a two-piece because of its classic black and white tank separated by a thick black belt tied in a bow that starts the extension of the black skirt decorated with large white polka dots. Below the polka dot pattern is a thick red trim that marks the end of the sassy design. I love the way the stripes and dots balance beautifully to create such a polished look.

DKNY Combo Dot Tank Dress

DKNY Combo Dot Dress
$245.00
Available at: saks.com

Those who like to cover their legs may want to think about grabbing this carefree Bebe Cool Dot Maxi Dress, which comes in both black in white. The featured dress is black with tiny white polka dots. The long length of this dress is sexified by the button closures. So, if you’re in the mood to show more skin then usual it’s an easy and quick adjustment. The dress is cinched at the waist with a thin matching belt. For a more dramatic, vavoom look around this sensual maxi, try wrapping a polka dot scarf around the waist or around the neck for a quirky spin. The Bebe Polka Dot Scarf is a great scarf because it’s long enough to get creative with.

It’s not certain how polka dots came about, but we do know Minnie Mouse rocked it well. However this trend started, its got spunk while being classic.
























resource:  http://www.stilettojungleblog.com/2010/03/spring-fashion-classic-polka-dots.html
 






Sunday, March 14, 2010

Alice in Wonderland Fashion Influence

From the examiner, the costuming was executed by the very talented Colleen Atwood. The Red Queen's dress has a very Gothic Victorian feel to it. Anne Hathaway looks like she came out of a Vera Wang wedding runway. Alice's blue dress fits in perfectly with Marc Jacobs Fall 2010/2011 collection. The full length blue wrap dress that Alice shrinks and grows into is a mix of eclectic Betsy Johnson Fall 2010/2011 and romantic Ralph Lauren Spring 2010. The dress that Alice wears throughout the Red Castle instantly reminded me of Rodarte and her final armor suit was beautiful.
The new Tom Binns Alice In Wonderland-inspired jewelry lines will feature two collections influenced by key story characters including Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Red Queen, the White queen and the White Rabbit. The Tom Binns for Walt Disney Signature line will offer a limited edition collection of six jewelry pieces designed in Binns' coveted over-the-top runway style. This high-end collection will be available at luxury retailers and fine boutiques with a price range from $1,000 to $3,000.

Next up for the avid designer will be Tom Binns for Disney Couture offering 35 pieces featuring Binns’ unique flair in collaboration with Lucas Design International, this collection will incorporate photo inlay with lace accents and Swarovski crystal details. The retail price range starts at $50 going up to $250; it will be available at department stores and specialty boutiques. Both collections will make their retail debut Spring 2010 in the U.S. and international markets.






Companies are already releasing Alice and Wonderland-inspired costumes for Halloween to leech off the success of the movie. Its unfortunate that small details and the textures wont translate into the cheap costumes but that wont stop the masses from purchasing them.


Spring Break Fashion Ideas Under $100

It’s amazing how quickly time has passed! It feels like only yesterday we were reporting on New Year’s Eve outfits and voila! March is already here. This time of year is when colleges around the country are gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year: Spring Break!
Now, the most popular destinations for spring break are those that involve sun, beach, and warmth. After all, this is a vacation, and a lot of us are in dire need of a break from the cold.
Lately, many of us have been focusing on layering and finding cute winter coats, so we need to brush up on appropriate travel/beachwear! And don’t worry: all of these looks cost less than $100 total, so you’ll have all the leftover change you need to buy drinks, souvenirs, and whatever else you may need while on vacation.

Exhibit A: Travel Attire

When traveling on the road/to the airport/to board a cruise, you should wear something comfortable and practical.
I chose this particular outfit for a number of reasons. First, I think skinny jeans are extremely versatile and if you get hot you can always roll them into capris. In addition, I always go for a nice, loose tank or top when traveling because I’ve had issues with other tops before (like the time I wore the most static-prone silk top ever and it kept sticking to my body during my flight- no fun). Also, it’s spring! Embrace a colorful cardigan! And don’t forget cute accessories that are easy to remove for security checks.

Exhibit B: Poolside/Beachside

So you’ve settled into your fab beach house, or have found your chic cabin on your cruise…now what? Time to hit the pool and/or beach, of course! Now, there’s a lot to be done at the beach besides swimming. Often times you will find outdoor bars, a vendor will catch your eye, etc. so it’s important to be prepared to transition! Here’s an outfit that is versatile for sun tanning, grabbing lunch, or moseying along the beach!

Exhibit C: Day-to-Night Transitions

Well, we all TRY to pack light, but sometimes it’s really hard to do so when you aren’t quite sure what’s in store for your trip. The solution is to know how to transition your day outfits to night-time with minimal effort. Here’s a day outfit (under $100), as well as a night time transition look (which is still under $100 as well).
 resource: http://www.collegefashion.net/fashion-tips/looks-under-100-spring-break-part-i/