TBMD

A few weeks back, I was helping SIL decide on her first Chanel purchase. While at the store, the SA brought out a beautiful rose colored camellia wallet on chain (WOC). SIL tried it on and felt the strap was too long and hits her at an awkward spot. In a moment of insanity, I tried it on and immediately knew it was a bad idea. Lesson never learned: don't try on things for fun.

Now that the seed for a small and colorful crossbody bag has been planted in my head, I considered my options. A mini flap in burgundy also caught my eye, but I decided the color was too dark and the shape and style was too similar to my medium flap. I wasn't set on buying a Chanel, so I expanded my search to other brands but focused on their red selections only. I considered the Coach Legacy Penny Shoulder in carnelian, J.Crew Little Edie in flame, Tory Burch Robinson Crossbody Mini in raspberry, and the Marc Jacobs Single in burgundy. After sleeping on these options for a few days, the excitement for each soon faded for one reason or another (color/shape/size/style). It was back to the drawing board for me.

SIL on the other hand, had reached a decision on The One, a small bright pink Boy bag in stingray. She talked about how she used The Purse Forum to do all her research, even picking out a store with a specific SA in mind to buy from. It's been awhile since I've actively used tPF, so that conversation with her triggered thoughts of the rose camellia WOC from a few weeks back.

Through tPF, I familiarized myself with all the information I could find on camellia WOCs, current and past colors, leather options, quality, size, etc. The more photos I saw, the more enamored I became with the camellia embossing. The design is beautiful up close, feminine, and different than the quilting on my medium flap. Best of all, the camellia WOC comes in various shades of red, depending on the year/collection. Some were bright red with orange undertones, some a true lipstick red, some a darker wine-colored red. Photo comparisons helped, but I much rather see the colors in person if I could.

I went to two stores before the SA brought out the color that made my heart aflutter. The Chanel Camellia WOC in 11A red with silver hardware (tag info / buy pre-owned) was the perfect shade of red for me, not too bright, no orange undertones, a true wine-colored red. 11A means the bag was part of the 2011 Autumn collection, where it debut in the $1400-1500 range. A year and a couple price hikes later, the bag now retails for $1700. Ouch. I had been following the eBay market for pre-owned red camellia WOCs and haven't seen many I'd be comfortable with below $1600, so I figured I'd sleep much better at night buying brand new for a little more.

[photo above]: Due to various shadows and lighting, the bag looks to have an all-over gradient of colors. In real life, the bag's color is consistent througout.

Back in 2010, I posted about my then-collection of 7 bags. Fast forward three years to present day and my love for bags has not waned. During this time, I've sold some, donated others, bought more, and now am the happy owner of 11 bags in my possession. At around the #8 mark, I told myself to employ a one-in-and-one-out rule to keep my materialistic side in check. Umm... yeah, so much for that. My willpower was no match for my greediness.

I thought it'd be fun to do a bag collection update. I'll also take this opportunity to reflect on shopping lessons learned, regrets, and share any other thoughts in general. Here we go...

1) Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote (c. 2013, paid $154 / buy at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, NM) - I don't know how I've lived without a large, dark-colored throw-around bag before this year. It easily tops my bag list and is the one I reach for the most often. I should've known an ubiquitous bag like the Le Pliage is popular for a reason! I could've waited for a F&F 20-25% sale, but was impatient and paid full price instead. No biggie. I've made up for the lost savings in the number of uses since.

2) Longchamp LM Metal Medium Tote (c. 2011, paid $108 / buy at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Selfridges, Saks) - I'm normally not a fan of bags with signature logos plastered all over, but figured Longchamp's horse and rider isn't as well-known (not sure if my perception is accurate or delusional?) I used to reach for this white tote more often, but ever since the black Le Pliage was added into the rotation, this one has been mainly relegated to pairings with preppy-casual outfits. I can't definitively comment on my bag's condition without seeing it next to a brand new version. But from my observations, it looks like there's been minimal creasing on the canvas, the corners have held up well, the silver handles haven't lost luster, but the white color has most likely yellowed over time. This is after two years of abuse in all types of weather and travel conditions.

3) Jenny Yuen Cleo (c. 2008, paid $65) - This bag was bought during a phase where I snubbed all the "popular" brands in favor of up-and-comers or brands that flew under the radar instead. Ha! How times have changed (ahem Longchamp, Chanel). The clutch is actually quite roomy and fits all the essentials. I just don't use it as often because of the metallic pink color -- which I love but is just harder to pair with outfits.

4) Marc Jacobs Large Single (c. 2012, gift from aunt / buy at Nordstrom) - Before receiving this bag as a wedding gift from one of my aunts, I was actually considering the MJ small single (eventually bought the Chanel Camellia WOC instead). My aunt and SIL (whose help was enlisted to pick out the color) must've been reading my mind with this choice. I've still yet to figure out how they sensed that I'd prefer a bag over jewelry (which is what everyone else gave).

5) Chanel M/L Classic Flap (c. 2010, paid $2730 / buy pre-owned at Vestiaire) - Hindsight is 20/20 and I'm so glad I bought my flap when I did (1-2 weeks prior to prices increasing from $2600 to $3400). I regret not giving the reissue more consideration because the longer strap can double as a crossbody bag. At the time, I was worried that the all-metal chain on the reissue would pose a problem on hot summer days against bare skin. LOL at me. Most recently, I've briefly considered selling my classic flap to buy a Boy flap, which may suit my casual lifestyle better (and can be worn crossbody!), but I don't think I can bring myself to pay the price difference.

6) H&M Snakeskin Envelope Clutch (c. 2011, paid $19) - This bag is the least functional due to its flat shape and envelope style. I really can only fit my keys and a few credit cards (forget about my phone, iPod) before the clasp wouldn't snap shut. Sometimes an outfit just calls for a smaller brown bag, so that's when I'd use this clutch. It actually doubles as a crossbody, so that's another plus. I think eventually I'd want to replace this with a similar sized brown bag that has more depth.

7) Chanel Camellia WOC (c. 2012, paid $1785 / buy pre-owned at Vestiaire) - I seriously thought my black flap would be my one and only Chanel. Riiiiight, who're you trying to fool? I've expressed the exact thoughts when others tell me they'll stop once they own just one Chanel. Now I'm the recipient of my own snarky thoughts, so laugh away! This bag fills my bright and feminine bag void due to the color and camellia embossing. The only regret is with the Chanel brand and their yearly price increases. If only I had bought it earlier when prices were lower. Should've, could've, would've...

8) Sole Society Shay Textured Vegan Satchel (c. 2013, paid $47 / buy here) - My newest addition to the bag family (literally a few days old), so I don't have many comments thus far. I bought it to replace my H&M bag because this one is more structured and less pink in color. It also comes with an adjustable shoulder/crossbody strap (not shown in photo above).

9) agnes b Nylon Tote (c. 2005, gift from cousin) - I've admitted to myself that the only reason I still have this bag is due to sentimental reasons. The fact that it was my first "adult" bag and a gift makes it twice as hard to let go. In all honesty, this bag is sorta redundant now that I own the black Le Pliage, which is roomier and the longer handles make it easier to throw over (and stay on) the shoulder.

10) Ann Taylor Tweed Clutch (c. 2013, paid $68 / buy here) - The second-most recent acquisition, so I don't have a whole lot of thoughts on this clutch yet either. Bigger than typical minaudieres I've seen, I love how the size fits all the essentials, plus shows off the pretty (and semi-sparkly) tweed pattern. So far, I've only used the clutch with casual outfits, but can see this tweed pattern pairing well with dressy outfits as well.

11) Balenciaga City (c. 2009, paid $1152 / buy at NM, Barneys) - This bag was my first foray into the designer bag realm. You know that saying, once you go designer, you can't go back? Well, I was afraid that would happen to me, but thank goodness, it hasn't (knock on wood). Of all my bags, if there is one that needs to be babied, this would be it. The lambskin leather plus light color have potential disaster written all over it if not treated with care. I don't handle this bag like fragile china, but nor do I toss it around like my nylon bags. After three years of use, the corners and handles are showing wear and tear as well as denim color transfer. I personally think that fits with the bag's casual moto style and adds "character" rather than detracts.

Looking over my entire collection as a whole, it's easy to see what types of bags work for me, and the ones that don't. Satchels with only top handles are not my friend. I need the option of a long shoulder strap. I value versatility -- the more ways to wear a bag, the better. I gravitate towards bigger bags in neutral colors, and save the fun colors/patterns for smaller bags.

In the back of my mind, I've always known the ballpark figure of what I've spent on this bag "hobby" of mine. I've just never actually totaled up the cost... until now. $6,128. Yikes! Well, I'll just hope my "shoe collection" never gets to this point ;)

Whew, that was long-winded. Thanks for reading!

Sale alert: Take 25% off at Shopbop's F&F event through the end of tonight 10/16 with code FAMILY25.

Closet favorites include:
- Clu Too ruffled sweatshirt - $81.00 w/code (TTS - I'm wearing sz XS / outfits: here)
- Elizabeth and James Windrose ring - $71.25 w/code (one of my favorite pieces of jewelry ever; wear it with practically all outfits)
- Blank Denim spray-on jeans - $66 w/code (I sized up to 26 / outfits: here, here, here)
- Blank Denim vegan leather skinny pants - $73.50 w/code (I sized up to 26 / outfits: here, here, here)

Other picks: $81 Stateside knotted back dress (love the back), $223.50 Kate Spade Avalon cross body bag (a great alternative to my Chanel camellia WOC), $258.75 DVF New Jeanne Two wrap dress (classic dress in a classic print).

Also:
- Vince Little Boy tee - $45.00 at Nordstrom (no code needed) + Saks w/code FRNFAM (Went up 2 sizes to M for better fit across my broad-ish shoulders and longer length / outfits: here)

Happy shopping!

An easy, casual outfit on this gorgeous weekend to run errands. Hope you have a good one!

Sale alert: Take 20% off Bloomingdale's F&F sale through 10/6 with code FRIENDS (designer exclusions apply).

A few closet favorites at a discount:
- Burberry Marystow trench - $876 with code (I'm wearing sz 2 / outfits: here, here, here)
- Longchamp large Le Pliage tote - $116 with code (outfits with bag: here, here, here)
- Longchamp medium LM metal tote - $128 in black (review here / outfits with bag: here, here, here)

At Gap, take 40% off today only (10/1) with code GAPDEAL.
- Broken-in straight khakis - $20.99-$29.97 with code (I'm wearing sz 00R / outfits: here, here, here)
- Driving moccasins - may still be in stores - item #6040180120007 (runs narrow; I sized up to 7 / outfits: here, here, here)

At Banana Republic, take 40% off today only (10/1) with code BROCTOBER.
- Leopard haircalf skinny belt - $29.70 with code (TTS if worn at waist, size up if worn at hips / outfits: here, here)

Happy October, everyone!

I know I know, it's a few months too early to even start thinking about the holidays. This is what happens when I'm going through my must-wear-new-items-all-at-once phase. No worries, it'll pass soon.

I don't own many any "work" dresses -- ones in an appropriate length and style that fit in most offices -- because there just hasn't been a need for one in my life. There's still no need, but now I'm upping my tally to one after falling in love with this Ann Taylor jeweled neck tweed dress (now on sale for $60!) For reference, I'm wearing size 00, my usual AT size.

The lightweight tweed material and short sleeves make it a perfect warm weather work dress. The jeweled neckline means one less accessory to mull over in the mornings because I already look put-together. I also like how the dress is chameleon-like -- is it black or is it navy? It depends on the lighting, which opens up even more color pairing options to choose from. (Shades of) red is the color du jour.

I was watching an old rerun of What I Like About You a few months back. Typically what stands out with these type of shows is the fashion at the time. Or gigantic cell phones. During this one particular episode, I kept noticing Amanda Bynes wearing a ballet wrapped-style sweater with a cute skirt. And so that's where I drew inspiration from for today's outfit. Whoever said fashion is cyclical is so right.

As the saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words." My mind's drawing a blank today, so I'll leave it at that.

Have a great Wednesday!

I'm keeping this post short and sweet. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Since upgrading from a point-and-shoot, one of my favorite aspects of photography is the ability to take photos directly into the sun. Shooting at the right angle during certain hours of the day, I feel like I hit the jackpot every time when I manage to capture elusive sun flares or the soft, romantic glow. Then there are times like today's photos where there's just too much sunlight going into the camera and so resulting photos look washed out.

Another Monday, another start to a new work week. Have a good one!

The longer I look at today's outfit photos, the more I'm doubting my jacket choice. While the tweed and lace combination essentially works due to the similar color scheme, I think I should've gone with something simpler on the bottom (like dark washed jeans) or a solid colored jacket (like my tan leather jacket). Live and learn, right? :)

I wore this outfit a few days ago, right before the cold front passed through. I woke up this morning to snow on the ground and flurries in the air. Sigh. It's the first snow of the season and I can barely muster up the excitement. Whatever happened to those days where I'm giddy at the prospect of snow?! Oh yeah, the excitement was aimed at school cancellations more so than actual snow. Oh to be young again.

The Ann Taylor balcony shirtdress in desert sky, size XXSP (sold in petite/regular) was the only item I was really excited about when the summer collection was released. I fell in love with the mixture of prints, the preppy vibe, and the shirtdress style.

During the recent 50% off dresses promo, I tried on XXSP [below left] and XS [below right] I'd say the dress fits TTS to a bit large. The regular size is about 1.5" longer than the petite, which I didn't think was as flattering on me. Though I could use extra fabric as the dress does hike up when I sit down.
Approximate measurements: shoulder-to-shoulder is 14" on XXSP, 15" on XS / length is 34" on XXSP, 35.5" on XS.
The material has a nice weight (97% cotton, 3% spandex), similar to those on dress shirts. It's comfortable but does wrinkle as the day progresses. Dress is dry clean only.

Note the $10 price difference between regular and petite sizing ($158 vs. $148) for the balcony shirtdress. It's odd because the tag has the dress priced at $128 for both versions.

To shop other sales during this holiday weekend, see the right sidebar. Enjoy the fireworks and have a happy Fourth!

Same outfit, different days, swapped accessories. If there is one thing I'm consistent with, it's my gazing-with-fascination-at-the-ground pose... which apparently I overuse without thinking twice about. Time to pick up a new "acting natural" pose?

It's been quite the eventful long weekend for me. Spent time with out-of-town visitors (cousins and Elle), outlet shopping, celebrating my dad and grandmother-in-law's birthdays, and about to squeeze in a few episodes of Grey's Anatomy. Hope you had a great weekend!