Cruise/Resort 2009: Hits and Misses

Normally for Spring and Summer, I focus more on the swimwear aspect, because frankly, it is my favorite. However, this season I'm actually going to be perusing some of the top designer's collections (especially regarding accessories and shoes) and letting you know what to spend your hard-earned (and these days, quite stretched) dollars on.

First up, Bottega Veneta. I will have to start out by saying, I was not impressed with their handbag collection this year. There was something like 38 pieces on the online catalog (not including wallets, mind you) and they all looked basically the same, structurally and aesthetically. Of course, their running theme this season is woven leather, but they did very little else as far as details to set their bags off from the rest. And honestly, it takes a lot to make me want to spend $700 on a wallet anyway, let alone one that doesn't look or feel like it will last me more than a couple seasons.

However, there was one item which definitely caught my eye, but not because of a crazy print or kooky design. Bottega's cruise season version of the leather bootie, which is cut a little lower as well as possesses some great cutouts and lace-up detail, as well as a sturdy heel and slight platform. I think one could wear these with absolutely anything for instant sophistication. Now this is what I fell in love with about Bottega in the first place.

Bottega Veneta Lace Up Leather Platforms, $920, BottegaVeneta.com

Now for another rave: I am totally digging the direction that Louis Vuitton has taken since Marc Jacobs took the helm. He definitely brings more of a young, feel-good vibe to the brand. Two of my favorite handbags from the new collection are below:

I've never seen the use of a print like this on a Louis Vuitton bag, but this is definitely the first piece that caught my eye. The print is meant to invoke the French Riviera. (How do you say "beautiful" in French? haha.)

Louis Vuitton Galliera Riviera, $1,940, eLuxury

Another unusual take on this classic brand is this traveler tote with (of course, more French) lettering on the side. I don't think this is a part of the Resort collection simply because it doesn't feel very summery to me, but eLuxury had a lot of different pieces lumped together in one category. Either way, it's definitely worth mentioning.

Louis Vuitton Travel Shopper Traveller, $2,420, eLuxury

Now, I'm going to deviate from my handbag path for a moment, because these Vuitton shades are amazing! They have photochromic lenses, so when you are in sunlight, the lenses darken and you can see the monogram print on the outside of the lens. Snazzy!

Louis Vuitton Conspiration Pilote Sunglasses, $530, eLuxury

More Spring/Summer '09 trends to come! Stay tuned!

My latest obsession + another Do/Don't

Another random post. Ready? Go!

Finally, my home state gets a good rep in the fashion world. Check out this BagSnob article about the Lanvin Kansas Tote - in purple patent! How sweet is that? (Too bad it's $2,000)

AND, I have another trend question for all you fashionistas: Do or Don't? Leg warmers + tights + heels?

I actually think that this one's a DO. It's functional, for one (don't have to give up the pretty pumps when winter hits!), and it gives a casual ensemble insta-chicness. As afraid most of us are of the 80's-throwback, this one actually makes sense. Plus, it makes the new craze of "mixing textures" super easy.

What do you think? Drop me a line, let me know! (don't be shy now!)

Yeah, I need to lay off the coffee. ha.

Check This Stuff Out!

Just a couple things to tide you over till my next post (believe me, it's a huge one).

Check this out: I've been falling more and more for miu miu every season and this bag is almost worth the $1,445 price tag.

Uh-Mazing.

Also, this awesome beauty feature from Beauty Addict on Rodarte's runway show. Veryy artsy. I like.

And this too!

Designer Laptop Bags! Sweet!

Spring Has Sprung! : The New Sunglasses

Now that we've all officially "sprung forward," I figure it's time to pull out some more cute spring/summer trends. Unfortunately, I can't take part in this one since I am pretty much blind and can't wear contacts. That is, of course, unless D&G or Marc Jacobs decides that they wanna get me a pair with my prescription (har har).

Anyways, on to business. The three major divisions of this style are either eye-catchingly bright frames, subtly tinted aviators, or classic black.

My favorite super bright frames come from Forever 21:

F9111 Sunglasses, $5 (amazing, no?), Forever21

Red and pink are really popular colors this season. [Maybe it's the spring vibe?] But, white is also making a considerable statement. Just check out these high-end examples from Marc Jacobs...

Marc by Marc Jacobs Logo Print Sunglasses, $90 (another great price!), Neiman Marcus

...and these sporty chic frames from Lacoste.

Lacoste, Product Number la12602, 800-272-2042 for stores

Compliment these statement pieces with bright pink or even purple eyeshadows and light makeup elsewhere. This look is definitely very spring.

The 70's are definitely making a comeback, with these sleek aviators. The only prerequisite? They can't actually be helpful in blocking the sun. [Go figure.] Check out these super-slick styles from Cesare Paciotti and Juicy Couture.

Cesare Paciotti, Product Number CPS021, 212-452-1222 to order (USA only)

Juicy Couture Little V Aviator Sunglasses, $220, shopbop

With these styles, layer on some serious dark mascara to highlight your eyes even more, invest in a good bronzer for that sun-kissed summer glow, and add some bright pink lipgloss for added flair.

Of course, black is one color that will never go out of style. Thick, black frames are hotter than ever, especially with barely-there transparent and translucent lenses. [Which, once again, don't do much for sun protection.] These Stella McCartney shades are a great example.

Stella McCartney Plastic Frame Sunglasses, $240, shopbop

This is a great opportunity to bring back the smoky eye. Or, at least, layer on the mascara and black eyeliner. Compliment with deep red lips and you're the face of sexy this season.