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?
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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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!
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