I'm in Love

I've been admiring my friend's bag for months now and had always assumed it was Chloé. Yesterday I noticed the branding and realized that it definitely wasn't Chloé...but in fact, it's from a London designer, DeMellier.

I'm not sure if I should love her or hate her for introducing me to this brand. Their bags are gorgeous and not outrageously priced compared to other brands like Chloé, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Channel, etc.

She has the Midi Venice in a beautiful grey (not currently available), but it comes in a handful of other colors, including this pink that I'm kind of crazy about.

This bag is at the top of my "wish list". It can be carried...

Or worn as a crossbody. 

Of course, the majority of colors are out of stock because Meghan Markle recently carried it. 

The Smaller, Mini Venice is also really fabulous and comes in a variety of color block options that I LOVE.

A DeMellier will, without a doubt, be the the next handbag I add to my closet. 

Carry On

In October I introduced you to designer Danielle DiFerdinando and her incredible line of handbags - Danielle Nicole. Right before Christmas she hosted an event at Cusp in Georgetown and it was the perfect opportunity to do some self-gifting...you know you do it around Christmas time. Don't lie. I've been on the hunt for a great crossbody bag - I'm usually a clutch kind of girl. Enter the Diane. Not only is it a crossbody, but it's a clutch too! It was my go-to purse in Sun Valley and left my hands free for important things like picking up the mini and my coffee!

I bought it in grey - which I can't seem to track down online, but it's also available in this gorgeous berry color (very similar to the pantone color of the year, radiant orchid) and in black. At the incredible price of $58 dollars, you could splurge and buy both! 

I also came home with the Adeline Satchel which I'd been lusting after since I was first introduced to her line. It's the perfect bag. Not only does it go with EVERYTHING, but it has just the right pockets and amount of space - without being too big. I've been known to get a little Marry Poppins and carry a suitcase-sized purse. 

You really can't go wrong with Danielle's bags! I'm loving the Peyton Satchel for spring - especially with the subtle edgy side zipper detailing! The blue is a bold neutral that would really make an outfit pop. 

Want to learn more about the brains and beauty behind the bags, check out this interview on The Girls of Lincoln Park. 

Splurge vs. Save

The other night my BFF was over for dinner with her husband. Both of us have the LV Speedy 30, and a few years ago she got a thin strap for hers so she can wear it across her body.

My +1 and I are taking a trip to San Francisco in June (without the Mini Fashionista), and I really would like to carry my LV bag since it's not practical for everyday wear with the Mini. That said, I get tired of carrying it on my forearm, especially now since I've developed "tennis elbow" from carrying my 28lb child!

I suggested to my +1 that a strap would make a wonderful Mother's Day Gift. I figured it wouldn't be that costly, but I was wrong. They are over $200 for the thin, simple strap! No surprise...LV isn't exactly budget friendly. After my +1 gasped in horror, and kindly reminded me that I am not actually his mother and that I have plenty of luxury vinyl, my friend suggested I use the strap from my LV Keepall instead.

I quickly ran to my closet, grabbed the strap, and presto chango, for no additional cost (notice I didn't say "no cost"), I have a strap for my speedy 30! Both my friend and I agreed that it looks pretty great!

Clearly the strap hasn't been used much as it looks brand new. I better get working on that.

So, moral of the story... I could have splurged and bought a very expensive strap, but instead I shopped in my closet and found an even better solution! Thanks SKC for the idea! You are the best, and not just because you came up with this great idea!

P.S. A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the Mini Fashionista who is 2 years old today! And she's already accessorizing. This girl is like her mom and her aunt and LOVES Angela Caputi!

K.Slademade

One of the items on my Christmas Wish List  was a K.slademade crossbody bag. I have been coveting this bag for a while now and am hoping Santa delivers...(maybe I should send him this blog post?).

For those of you not familiar with K.slademade, let me introduce you. "Kelsea, owner and originator of K.slademade, has an ongoing love for all things American; which is a big part of why back in 2010 she jumped at the opportunity to become an entrepreneur, designing and selling handbags. While her taste has refined over the years, she continues to derive much inspiration from classical American heritage using only the finest and most durable leather, zippers, and hardware to create a classically straightforward, sophisticated yet simple line of handbags."

Really, you can't go wrong with any of these bags. They are all to die for!

Two Words: Shop HERE 

My Christmas Wish List

My want list is ever growing, but here is what I am currently wishing for this Christmas.

Oliver Bonas Cashmere Blend Eyemask $24.19

A Nixon rose gold watch (I like both)

The Spur $300

The Camden $275

K.slademade Leather Crossbody $160

J Crew Printed Makeup Pouch $25

And lastly, I love this Inkwash Tie-Dye Shift from Anthroplogie!

It doesn't look so cute in this photo, but it looks fantastic on fellow blogger Mary of Happily Grey!

I'm really head over heels for this dress! But let's be honest...there is nothing I really need. I guess that is why it is called a "wish" list and not a "need" list!