Birthday Wishlist
Less than a month until I will be blowing out the candles for another year and I thought it’d be fun to share my wishlist. I still don’t feel that “birthday” aura right now since I still don’t have any plans yet, but I already have wishes!

1. Crystal Embellished Transparent Necklace by Mango
2. Scented Candle by Diptyque
3. Sony SEL50F18 E-Mount
{APRIL}: Looks I Love
A Retrospective
The frenzy over the Celine Luggage Tote has been at a fever pitch for seasons now, and somehow, it shows no signs of abating. The visual appeal of the bag is so contagious, in fact, that it has jumped from the fashion crowd straight to Hollywood. Not every It Bag translates that well to people outside of the industry, but Celine has found a way to catch lightning in a bottle. Everyone has or wants one of these bags. Like me!
But the big question on many accessory lovers’ minds: Do popular bags still retain their value, or will the craze die down, and with it, the allure of the bag?
Let’s go back to the Chloe Paddington, a bag that was one of the items that sparked the It Bagmania and had people crossing country lines trying to find a Paddington to pick up. The Paddington was different when it came out, the design stood out because of the extra thick leather, the accents, and most notably the extremely heavy lock. This bag was heavy to carry, truly too heavy, but everyone wanted to have it and it was hard to get your hands on.
But the time of the Paddington was during an interesting time in the accessory world, when It Bags reigned supreme and the more ornate and over-designed the bag, the more likely it was to garner premium status. The Paddington was all the rage for about three seasons, but when it went out of style, it really went out of style. This bag reached critical mass and everyone moved on.
Fast forward to the Celine Luggage Tote, a bag that currently has purse-enthusiasts going gaga. This bag has been huge for over two full years now, though, and while it isn’t quite as hard to track down as it was in the beginning, finding the exact rendition of the Luggage Tote that you want can still be quite a feat. What is most important to note about this bag is that it’s more classic than the Paddington. Sure, the design stands out and some even say it looks like a face, but the finished product is extremely classic because of the clean lines, sleek design, and premium quality. Ladylike bags will always have a place in the accessory world.
While Luggage Totes can still be resold for close to their original retail, it’s hard to say any designer bag will retain its value over the long haul, aside from Hermes and Chanel. But, in my opinion this bag is both ladylike and feminine while remaining usable and chic.
Ten Essential Shoes
The right pair of shoes can make all the difference when it comes to completing a look. Candace Bergen has said that no matter what one’s wardrobe costs, if paired with quality shoes, everything looks high quality. She makes a very sound point. As long as the clothes fit well and hair and make-up is done, the shoes can really take the entire look to the next level.
With all of that in mind, here are my ten essential shoes every woman should have in order to be stylishly pulled together no matter what the occasion.
1. Ballet Flats
Giving everyday dresses and jeans a chic Parisian flair, ballet flats are essential to your wardrobe, especially after a long night out (or even just a half hour) in those daring high heels.
2. Nude Heels
A treasure to be had. Whether with jeans, a dress of any color, or an outfit of any color, this is the pump you want to make sure you have in your closet. Choose a round toe or peep-toe, either way, I have a feeling you will fall in love.
3. Tall Boots or Riding Boots
Boots for fall and winter are a style must as we want to stay warm, but still want to look stylish and pulled together. It’s difficult to find the right boots, but once you have found them there will be no looking back.
4. Black Pumps
All women need these essential shoes in their wardrobe. Basic black pumps can be dressed down and up, worn for play and to work, and match almost any outfit combination. Choose a shoe with a slim stiletto heel, classic almond toe shape, and in a high-quality leather.
5. Flat Leather Sandals
Basic leather sandals are meant for those days when you decide to lose track of time, laze in the grass or wander without direction. Or those days when you merely wish you could.
6. Casual Sneakers
Sometimes your feet need a break, and that’s why you should have a pair of casual sneakers. I don’t like sneakers, but I have them and I can tell that they look effortlessly chic as well. Buy design classic, chic looking sneakers and wear them with jeans or denim shorts for a casual and cool look.
7. Wellington Boots
All-weather boots such as wellington boots are your best choice for hitting the outdoors. A shiny black pair of wellington will usually do the trick, but if you want something more fun you can choose bright colors or even patterns.
8. Moccasins
It’s soft, lightweight, and comfortable, and it’s the perfect finishing touch for any outfit from business casual attire to jeans and a T-shirt.
9. Ankle Boots
This is a fun alternative for the fall and winter when you want to cover more of your foot, but have the feel of a fabulous heel.
10. Espadrilles
Another shoe that is fun for summer, adds height without the wobble and is capable of being paired with capris, shorts or a dress.
Feel free to share what your essentials are as well.
4 Spring Bags
to carry right now!
The Teeny Edie Purse
LOVED FOR: Neon. Pink. Leather. Need I say more?
CARRIED BY: Minimalists (with a very sunny outlook).
PAIR WITH: Your brightest shade of lipstick.
SHOP IT: Jcrew
The Invitation Clutch in Cork
LOVED FOR: A natural texture with flecks of gold and a tuckaway chainlink shoulder strap.
CARRIED BY: The girl who has to everything.
PAIR WITH: Anything. No wonder I adore neutrals.
SHOP IT: Jcrew
The Tartine Satchel
LOVED FOR: Its superfunctional design and roomy but not-too-large size.
CARRIED BY: Those with a penchant for all things understated.
PAIR WITH: Printed scarves, classic ballets and an iPad mini.
SHOP IT: Jcrew
The Biennial Cutout Hobo
LOVED FOR: Its luxe leather, slouchy silhouette and unique cutouts.
CARRIED BY: Ladies who like to take it all with them (without sacrificing style).
PAIR WITH: Oversize sunnies and a week’s worth of magazines.
SHOP IT: Jcrew
So, what’s your purse-onality?
























