A Girl’s Gotta Have Options
February 8 | Bag Review

How many handbags can one person own?  If the answer was up to me, I’d say you can’t have too many.  Handbags function with many different purposes, not the least of which is fashionably hauling your stuff.  So after mulling over Donna Karan’s Eldridge bag, I wonder why more designers have not jumped on board this idea?

Donna Karan Eldridge 4 in 1 Convertible Bag

The printed leather version looks fun for spring, while the black version is a year-round keeper.  Normally I’m not into pleated anything, but on the Eldridge, it doesn’t bother me.  It starts off as a classic tote, but you can use the snaps on the bottom and adjustable straps for four different looks, including a shoulder bag or casual cross-body look.  I’ve never paid much attention to Donna Karan handbags, but now I’m on notice.  The details of the Eldridge are done just right and I’m curious to see what else this line has to offer.

Double Bag It
January 26 | Bag Review

“It” bags are supposed to be a thing of the past, but I think this one is definitely going to be on the radar of many fashion conscious gals.

Mulberry Alexa Bag

I am actually a bit ambivalent about Mulberry because a few years back, I bought a Bayswater bag and the lock literally fell apart just three months after I bought it.  That was really disappointing.  So I haven’t really been keen on brand ever since, but the Alexa Bag drawing me back a little.  It definitely reminds me of the Proenza Schouler PS1 bag.

PS1 Medium Satchel

Um, who am I kidding?  These look remarkably similar… almost too similar.   But I really like that you can carry a bit of sunshine with the cheerful yellow colored Alexa bag.  The cross-body strap is nice too.  And the Mulberry bag is about four hundred dollars less than the PS1.  For either amount though, these bags should be made with durability in mind.  You aren’t shelling out peanuts for these babies. 

Jumper Cables
January 20 | Collections Agent

Seriously, why haven’t I written about Pringle of Scotland before?  I probably love a gorgeous knit more than any other item of clothing and this is one of the oldest games in town.  Like Burberry, Pringle of Scotland has worked to shed its stodgy image with a fresh new take on its heritage of argyle sweaters and matching twinsets.  Check out this hilarious animated short by artist David Shrigley about the brand’s past and present.

After watching this, I’m even more enthusiastic about a brand with roots in a place that rains so much it “gets to your head.”  I also love that Tilda Swinton is the fashion house’s muse right now.  She is truly an original… and I guess being Scottish doesn’t hurt either.  Anyway, if you want to see the latest goods, the 2010 Pre-fall Collection is filled with looks that are flat out fantastic. 

Pringle of Scotland 2010 Pre-Fall Collection

The shapes and silhouettes are a good mix of cozy and streamlined.  I know there’s a whole spring season we haven’t even gotten to yet, but I’m already looking forward to what Pringle has to offer this fall.  Bring on the rain!

Jacket Required
January 18 | Favorite Things

The boyfriend blazer has had its moment, but I’m ready to move on.  Slouchy can be great for that undone look, but I for one am into something a bit more flattering and feminine.

Vanessa Bruno Cropped Jacquard Jacket

I wish I was wearing this right now.  I could pair it with my high waisted denim shorts and a pair of flat sandals.  Or those Chanel clogs I’ve been obsessed with.  This outfit would require better weather and tan legs (not to mention a socialite’s budget) but a girl can dream right?

Come Out of Your Shell
January 12, 2010 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

When it comes to spring footwear, I am feeling the wedge.  There are several wedge sandals I have my eyes on and these are tops on my list.

Eggshell Wedge at Anthropologie

Love the tassels and the fresh off-white color that says warm weather is here!  Too bad warm weather is not here.  I wonder how these feel on the feet.  I’ve never bought shoes from Anthropologie.  I have a pair of colorful woven wedges that feel like I’ve got two bricks attached at the ankles by tiny (but pretty) gold metallic straps.  I definitely don’t want a repeat purchase of uncomfortable shoes.  For now I think I’ll just admire these cuties.

Step Up
January 4, 2010 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

It’s a new day, a new year and a new decade of fashion to look forward to.  While it may be fun to take a look back at what was, I’m going look ahead to what will be.

So here’s my first confession of 2010.  I have been scouring ebay in search of clogs.  Yes, clogs.  Ever since I saw pictures of the Chanel S/S 2010 show, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair. 

Clogs from Chanel S/S 2010 Ready-to-Wear

I had an awesome pair of clogs years ago that were black leather, with silver staples on the chunky wooded heel.  I wore them everywhere they and were so damn comfortable.  Probably too comfortable because lets face it, they were clogs and no one needs to be wearing those things all the time like I did.  Besides, I see clogs all winter here in Portland and most are not what you’d call flattering or fashionable.  I’m hoping the latest versions (the knock-offs will be stomping into stores soon I’m sure) will offer the same attention to detail and leg-lengthening sexiness of the Chanel versions… with all the comfort, of course.  

Sunny Day
December 21 | Favorite Things

I haven’t actually seen the sun in a while since it’s been raining on and off for the past three days.   So it’s a bit incongruous to have sunglasses on the mind.  But like socks or a good chocolate, you can never have too many.

Vintage Christian Dior sunglasses from Retro Sun

Santa can feel free to leave these in my stocking.  I like the 80’s feel of the alternating turquoise and clear square frames… and trust me when I say reviving the 80’s is not my fave.  Somehow this works.  And anytime I feel sunny on the inside even when it’s not sunny on the outside, it’s a very, very good thing.

Frances May - My New BFF
December 15 | Shop Local

Have you ever had a friend who had the best wardrobe?  The one who knew exactly what to wear whatever the occasion and always looked a little bit retro, a little bit ahead-of-the-curve and all around awesome?  I have a new friend just like that and her name is Frances May.

Inside Frances May in Portland's West End

Perhaps it’s a bit unhealthy to have a girl-crush on a boutique but I’m not apologizing.  Frances May carries labels you won’t find anywhere else in Portland from A.P.C. to Rachel Comey.  Plus, there’s a great selection of jewelry and a nicely stocked men’s section as well.

Pamela Baker-Miller owns Frances May, along with her grandmother, (how cool is her grandmother?) and blends an easy-going friendliness with a sharp eye for what’s happening in fashion to make for a shopping experience that’s as effortless as looking for something to wear in your best friend’s closet.

The stock at Frances may reflects much of Pam’s own style and what appeals to her.  Her two "can’t live without items" are Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers and cardigans for their simplicity and timeless appeal.  She also likes to invest in quality pieces that will go the distance.

Pam is originally from Northern California and studied art in NYC, but now loves Portland for its easy livability, great food and supportive atmosphere.  I'm so glad she brought Frances May here.  Even if you don’t live in Portland , you can shop Frances May online.  You definitely want to make this boutique your new BFF. 

Thank you to Pam for taking the time to chat with Fashion Vice!

Fast Fashion Remake
December 10, 2009 | Favorite Things

This is the perfect example of how something small can rea1ly make an outfit.

Rachel Comey Skinny Cheetah Belt

For someone like me, who practically lives in black or gray – I know, I’m working on it – this would punch up an outfit without too much effort.  Now Rachel Comey shoes in this print would be seriously fabulous... mmm hmm!

Good Hat Day
December 4 | Favorite Things

If you know a fashionable gal that has the independent spirit and flair for fashion just like Little Edie Beale, then here’s the Christmas gift for her.

Opening Ceremony Wool Turban

Beanies are so 2008. Or is that 2007?  I’m not really serious... but this hat does makes me smile.

Red Hot Leopard
December 2 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

One word for these shoes: dope.

Jerome C. Rousseau Leopard Print Pumps

These and those Surface to Air wedges I just wrote about make me believe I am seriously neglecting my shoe wardrobe.  I need to turn up the heat.

Stepping Tall
December 1, 2009 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

I have been obsessed with these shoes for quite some time now and I thought I’d share the love.

Surface to Air Suede Wedge Sandals

Of course they are hard to come by and they aren’t practical for my lifestyle - hanging with my toddler doesn’t exactly allow me to wear sexy as a mofo shoes most of the time - but maybe I’m limiting myself?

Collection Spotlight: Lutz & Patmos
November 30, 2009 | Collections Agent

As a knitter and lover of all things cozy, I am always up for adding to my knitwear collection.  While I love knitting something new, sweaters are more of a challenge, not just skill-wise, but time-wise as well.  Even the little projects can take days.  I just finished a snood/tube scarf/neck warmer and I’m diligently working on another in the hopes of giving a few to loved ones at Christmas.  Let me tell you, it’s hard to find the time.  Too bad I can’t just whip up a few pieces as luxurious and timeless as these.   

I love this line.  It’s everything fashion should be: simple, yet innovative; luxe, but not at all not precious; classic, but still surprising.  Not only do Lutz & Patmos make beautiful clothes, they know how to create buzz with noteworthy collaborations and guest designers.  Add a dash of eco consciousness and you’ve got an all around winner.  These pieces don’t come cheap, but it’s the perfect example of getting exactly what you pay for.  Beautiful clothes you can wear for a very long time.

Glam Classic
November 25 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

These are so fun.

Converse Chuck Taylor in sequins

I actually prefer the all black sequin version but you can see the sequins better in the multicolored version.  I have a pair of off-white Chuck Taylors that are seriously about 15 years old.  I will shed a tear when it’s time to throw them away, but I’ll keep them until they are hanging by a thin piece of rubber and random threads.  So maybe in another 15 years.

Hair Raising
November 24, 2009 | Wear What?

Is it me or does this clutch have the handbag equivalent of the side ponytail?

Halston Henry Ponyskin Clutch

This is an 80’s revival taken way too far.  It’s off the shoulder.  It’s animal print.  It’s got a side ponytail for goodness sakes!

Cuckoo for Coco/Rocco?
November 18, 2009 | Bag Review

Yes, I am jumping on this bandwagon a bit late, but I have been going back and forth about the Alexander Wang studded duffle bag for months.

Alexander Wang Rocco Nickel Studded Duffle Bag

On the one hand, it has all the cool cred you can think of: hot young designer, fashion muse early-adopter Mary-Kate Olsen, fall’s big stud trend.  But I have a few issues with Coco/Rocco.  It looks a bit saggy as these duffle bags tend to do.  Maybe it’s the added weight of the studs.  Maybe it’s the inherent design of the bag.  Who knows?  Without seeing it in real life, I can’t say for sure.  Also the handles bother me a bit.  I know it’s a true handbag in that it’s meant to be carried but with the saggy profile, it begs for the option to be worn on the shoulder.  I’ve seen pictures of women who can do that but it may not always be an option when worn with outerwear or if you just have a bigger arm circumference.

There’s also a lot of confusion over the name… Coco, Rocco, Rococo?  You can always rely on the ladies at the Purse Forum to get to the bottom of things (silver studs = Rocco, gold studs = Coco) but it seems merchants are still confused.  Oh well, it is still selling like hotcakes.

What annoys me is I keep going back to it.  I love the color of gorgeous grey leather and I want to get my hands on the black pebbled leather.  Maybe I would like it if I saw it.  I’m not into heavy studs, but it is very of the moment.  Anyway, at $850 it’s not as expensive as other designer handbags, but it certainly isn’t a bargain either.   I’m definitely not ready to pull the trigger on this baby quite yet.  But if you’re reading this and want to get in on the action, you’d better act quickly because these bags seem to sell out faster than you can click a mouse.

Flight of Fancy
November 16, 2009 | Favorite Things

It is never too early to think about the holidays.  And while most of us want to shop smart (as we definitely should) there’s nothing like getting a little indulgence as a gift – something you might not buy for yourself, but you’d be really stoked about receiving.    Here’s a lovely something that fits that description.

Kiki James London Croc Embossed Slim Travel Wallet

I recently went on an overseas trip and wished I had a better solution than carrying my wallet and a separate passport case in my bag.  This Kiki James travel wallet makes it easy since it allows you to put your passport, money and any other document you might need in one place.  It’s also got a slim profile and comes in eye-catching colors (in either croc embossed or regular leather) which make it a cinch to find in an overstuffed bag.  I’m partial to the fuchsia, which is actually a pretty pink that would stand out perfectly inside my cavernous travel handbag.  Feeling extra generous?  You can have the travel wallet personalized.  It costs about $82 and at that price you can even indulge in one yourself.  Now that’s worth celebrating.

Get Over It
November 9, 2009 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes

Whether you love over-the-knee boots or you think they are a bit over the top, there’s no escaping them this fall.  I happen to like them although I don’t have many occasions to wear them, unfortunately.  But here are a pair of riding boots that have the right price to dive into the OTK look, or at least stick a toe in.

Aldo Vele Boots

The color, toe shape and wedge heel all remind me of the much pricier Loeffler Randall boots.  At $200, the Aldo boots are much more doable.   The sleek profile is also a bit less “pirate” than some other OTK looks which can look a bit costume-y in my book.

Sell Out
November 4, 2009 | Favorite Things

With the holidays closing in, the last thing I need to do is get excited about shopping for myself.  But the Half-Yearly Sale at Nordstrom will get me every time.

Alexander Wang Knit Vest

I’d get a ton of mileage out of this Alexander Wang vest.  It’s knitted, so that alone puts it on my list of favorites.  The loops give interesting texture to a black basic, but it’s not so funky that everyone would sneak looks at you while you wait at your dentist’s office.  Yes, I do like to look fabulous even when I go to the dentist.

Out of This World
November 2, 2009 | Favorite Things

When I first saw this dress, I thought it looked like an abstract print of the planets.

3.1 Phillip Lim Gathered Waist Dress

Upon further review, it looks more like paint splatters and circles.  But it’s still pretty damn cool.  The gold studs at the shoulder and side seams are brilliant and the shape makes this a dress you can wear for ages.  Is it too soon to make a Christmas wish list?

A New Classic
October 30 | Bag Review

Balenciaga could unveil a handbag made out of twist ties and plastic baggies and I’d still think it was genius.  Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating just a bit, but I love me some Balenciaga.

Small Printed Neoclassic Bag

This little number has definitely caught my eye.  I love the chevron print – it almost looks like ikat and gives it a graphic, yet soft look.  Balenciaga motorcycle bags are a true classic but it might be time to mix it up a bit.