Why I No Longer Crave Designer Bags

During most of my twenties and when I first began blogging in 2009, I was infatuated with luxury handbags. I was a member of the Purse Forum and I would spend what seemed like hours scrolling through photos of gorgeous bags and reading their corresponding reviews. I couldn't afford one of my own, but hey...I could dream. I was also an equal opportunity brand lover, from YSL to Balenciaga, and of course Chanel. Always Chanel.

When I graduated from college in 2010, my mom gifted me with the very bag of my dreams - a Chanel classic jumbo flap in caviar leather. I was over the moon for weeks, but then reality set in and this incredible feeling of guilt took over. What had I really done to deserve such a beautiful bag? In my mind, absolutely nothing.

I discussed these feelings with my mom and she ultimately persuaded me to keep and enjoy it. The latter is still difficult. I keep it in its original box and dust bag, and I only carry it on occasion.

All of that to say that I no longer spend hours dreaming of designer bags. I don't keep up with the latest "it" bag of the moment, and I can easily walk by a Louis Vuitton without so much as a passing glance. Maybe my priorities have shifted, maybe I've just seen too many people carrying identical bags so they don't appear as special. I'm simply just not that interested anymore. Don't get me wrong, I'll always love a great handbag, and I'll always admire them on others. If you can and you want to, then treat yourself! But with so many more options now, I've come to realize that showy designer logos just don't make sense for my life and style. I'd rather invest in something else.

Sézane, Madewell, Clare V 

3 of my favorite bags

I now prefer bags from Sézane and Clare Vivier. The quality is beautiful, their textures and colors are luxurious, and I still feel like I'm carrying a designer bag. Revolve and Shopbop have a good range of lesser known brands at varying price points. If you're vegan, Sole Society offers some great vegan leather options. 

I'd really love to hear your thoughts on this! Do you crave designer bags, or are they at the very bottom of your wishlist?

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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Loeffler Randall Saddle Bag

As I previously mentioned in this post, I had been researching small crossbody and saddle bags for about three months now. I don't ever buy a bag on impulse, at least not anymore. I mull things over before making my decision. I usually try to see the bag in person so I can touch the leather, inspect the hardware, take note of its functionality, and try it on. This may sound like Type A to the extreme, but when it comes to dropping some cash on a bag, I'm anything but lazy. It's also a fun process! The thrill of the hunt can be even more exciting than the actual purchase.

Unfortunately, I didn't see this bag in person. I tried all of the higher end department stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Neiman Marcus but none at the South Coast Plaza location had this bag in stock so I gave it a whirl online during Shopbop's sale. $100 dollars off the retail price? Sold!

Link

Here are my thoughts after carrying it four times:

Pros:
Although it's small, it's quite roomy! It has two compartements where you can store the essentials. It's not large enough for a regular wallet, but other than that, all of my other must-haves fit nicely. These include cell phone, cards, keys, some lip products, and a small pill case.

It has a pocket in the back for easy access to a phone.

The strap is adjustable, so it really will suit any height! A big plus for a petite girl like myself! You can adjust to wear it crossbody or as a shoulder bag.

It is THE perfect shade of blush (thistle is the name of the color). Not too pink, not too white. It almost has a slight lavender tone, which is beautiful! I can't get over the color, almost like ballerina slippers. It makes for a feminine appeal to an otherwise androgynous bag.

The leather is very smooth and supple.

Loeffler Randall isn't as common as other brands, which I actually prefer. I most likely will not see it on others in and around my area. Saddle bags are trending, but I have yet to see this particular bag on anyone.

Cons:
The leather is so soft, that I fear of wear and tear. I'm using a protectant to ensure that doesn't happen, or at least not quickly.

The snap closure of the bag is a bit cumbersome. You really have to press down on the hardware to get it to lock in place. Opening it is easy though, and it's not a hassle to get in and out of like my Chanel bag.


Overall, I am in love with this beauty and am even planning on another Loeffler purchase in the future. I think this brand has me hooked!

If you have any specific questions that I didn't cover, feel free to leave me a comment below! Thank you for reading!

Linking up today with Rachelle and Caryl 

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Don't Shy Away From Red

Wearing //

Express dress

Loeffler Randall bag

Stella & Dot ring and cuff

WHBM sandals, pretty option 

I've shied away from wearing bold colors in the past, and the one shade that really seemed to scare the heck out of me was red. Too vibrant, too attention grabbing, too "look at me". I really dislike attention in public, which is pretty strange considering I write a blog on the internet. I know, I don't understand it either sometimes but I feel like I'm getting more and more comfortable with a little attention. Yes red is powerful, but it's also incredibly feminine and it forces me to come out of my shell a bit. There's nothing to be shy of, right? Paired with softer accessories, I let the dress be the star. Although I'm loving my new bag, and I think it's worthy of special attention too! I can't wait to review it for you so look for that in my next post. 

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Mama Wants a Brand New Bag

I'm getting that itch again. The one where I get ridiculously obsessive about my next big purchase, and that always means a handbag. I've said it before - some women love shoes, some lust after diamonds, and some like myself well...it's all about that next beautiful bag to add to my (rather small) collection.

Here's the criteria:

• Must be practical and multi-functional
• In keeping with the upcoming Spring and Summer, I want one in a lighter color
• Which color have I narrowed it down to? Either beige, white, or blush
• I'm also in the market for a crossbody/saddle style. Trendy at the moment, but when it comes to bags in particular, the saddle bag comes back around every few years.
• Must be leather and of good quality because my bags are forever - quality over quantity
• Must be under the $400 range. As much as I'd love a Chloe, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, or Valentino, I just can't bring myself to save for one just yet. There are other pressing matters in life. I have to be realistic. 

I'm not one to jump at the chance to make a big purchase. I like to do some research, mull over my options, and then narrow the choices down to two or three. Sometimes I'll ask for others' opinions, but most of the time, I go with my gut because ultimately it's my money and I'm the one who is going to carry the bag! 

Some pretty options that are in the running:

Kate Spade 

Loeffler Randall

Michael Kors

Gigi New York

Milly

Which do you ladies prefer? It's hard to narrow down to just one! 

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Purchases of 2015 #2

Is it really June? Come on, someone has to be pulling my leg because I don't believe it. In late February, I did my first post about my purchases thus far in 2015. Since then, I've definitely added a few more things to my closet. I've even added basics I've had on my wishlist for years, which is great because I am making the effort to stick to a budget and a plan. Keeping a list of things I need (or okay, things I want) is absolutely the best way to hold myself accountable while shopping. It's easy to get caught up in trends, but unless you have a ton of disposable income, that isn't realistic and is usually followed by regret. So, with this all in mind, here are my purchases from March through now.

I linked to everything that is still available online. 

Asos pumps

Express white dress

Express floral barcelona cami

Express knot front tee (I also just got another in white)

Express lace kimono, Sole Society flats

Target peplum jacket

Olivaceous dress worn as tunic

Nordstrom dress and (nude clutch - wishlist item)

LOFT white jeans

(LOFT denim jacket - wishlist item), White House/Black Market sandals

I also got these flats from Forever 21, but am exchanging them for a 7 instead of 6.5. They were too snug so I'm hoping the 7's do the trick!

It's safe to say I am a total Express addict. I knew it before so this isn't some sort of revelation, but I was chuckling as I was compiling these pictures. Hey, their sales are great and I rarely buy anything full price. You shouldn't either. 

Next on my list? Well, not much really! I always have my eyes on new handbags and shoes, and I actually just got this one.

I also wouldn't mind adding a couple more basic tees and a colorful maxi dress to my Summer wardrobe. But I'm going to stay on my best behavior and stick to classic pieces I can wear often. 

What have you added lately? Any bad purchases you regret?

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Favorite Wardrobe Pieces

Because I've been feeling so uninspired with my clothing this season, I got to thinking about how fortunate I am that I've finally curated a few pieces in my wardrobe that I absolutely love! As a girl who has always been interested in fashion, I've had my mishaps over the years. I've worn some God awful looks, and I've spent money on things that didn't last longer than a few washes. Now that I'm more focused on my own personal style rather than trends, I feel like I don't need to buy as much when I venture out to shop. Don't get me wrong, I blog about clothing so therefore I am in constant fear of temptation. Not to mention I'm also an avid blog reader, so whenever I see you girls looking fabulous in something, I immediately want to run out the door to buy it. I just can't afford to do that anymore, so instead I've decided to focus on wearing the things I already own and love. These pieces work for me, and they never let me down. Like a loyal best friend, I can count on them to make me feel happy and confident.

Favorite maxi skirt, also in my absolute favorite color.

Favorite coat and leggings

Favorite feminine skirt and bag

Favorite lady-like dress

Favorite jeans

Favorite little jacket, cami, and skirt. 

Essentially my favorite outfit!

Favorite pumps

Favorite Express portofino

Favorite (Dream) bag

And of course...

Favorite dress I've ever worn, and probably ever will

***I'm not sure if these items are still available, but if you would like a link or at least more information about any specific piece, please let me know in the comments. This post was not meant for monetization***

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Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. Tote

Real Life

Website

There's no single shopping experience that satisfies my little heart more than a handbag. I can't even explain why. You put stuff into it, and carry it on your arm or shoulder. Um, okay. I do however understand that I am interested in quality over quantity. I'd rather have beautiful staples that I will carry for years to come instead of a giant collection. If I'm going to drop any amount of money on one, it's a well-thought out and researched purchase. I usually think about it for months before taking the plunge. 

This bag was no different. Over the Summer, I was thinking about getting either a shoulder bag or a tote but I also couldn't decide on the color. Red? Cognac? Hunter green? I really couldn't make up my mind until I saw this Rebecca Minkoff tote in "Fatigue". In trying to review the M.A.B, I decided to create a list of pros and cons. Let's start with the 

Pros:

1) It's the medium size, which I think is perfect for someone my height (5'2). I think the large would be too overwhelming for me. 

2) The color. It's the perfect shade of tan, which also means it goes with absolutely everything. It comes in a multitude of gorgeous colors though!

3) The hardware is durable. The saffiano leather is the same as my Micheal Kors Selma satchel, so it's practically impossible to destruct. It has little metal feet on the bottom, which I think is such a great touch. I can see it keeping its shape and structure throughout time. The handles are also very sturdy.

Cons:

1) The handles are a little too stiff and sturdy, if that makes sense. They feel a bit rigid when worn on the shoulder, so I feel more comfortable carrying the bag on my arm. 

2) I really wish it had a crossbody strap for convenience. It's not a shopping bag, let's just put it that way. Great for work, and also as a weekender if you crave the polished look like I normally do.

Overall, I would recommend it and am happy with my Winter purchase. I can easily see myself carrying it through Spring and Summer as well. 

If you have any specific questions, let me know in the comments below!

Oh, and happy New Years! This is my last post of the year, and it feels surreal! Have a great night and be safe :)

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Cranberry and a New Bag

Wearing //

Nordstrom cardigan

Stella & Dot rebel pendant (another fun option)

Baublebar necklace

Express stretch bracelet, still in stores

Loft jeans

Express cami

Rebecca Minkoff medium MAB (love it in Black Cherry too)

Zara kitten heels, similar here but a bit higher in heel height

When I saw this Rebecca Minkoff a couple of months ago, I waited for it to go on sale. As soon as it did, I jumped. It is gorgeous, you guys. Saffiano leather, a rich tan color, and durable features makes this RM a great investment. I plan on doing a formal review soon. I'm very happy with it, so that's all you really need to know for now.

Speaking of happiness, I met up with two of my favorite bloggers on Monday night. I can't even refer to them as that, more like I met with dear friends I hadn't seen in ages. We clicked right off the bat! I had met Gina before at a RewardStyle event, but it was my first time meeting Caryl. Both ladies are warm, down to earth, and as sweet as can be. Not to mention their fun senses of humor! Husbands came along as well, and they hit it off too. Can I just say, it is so amazing to meet people that exceed your expectations. I often wonder what bloggers are like in "real" life. I try to be as authentic as possible through my writing and my photos, but there is so much we really don't know about one another on the internet. Monday night confirmed that there are genuinely great people who are a part of this community, and I hope to have get togethers more often!

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Beach Day

Loving this canvas tote by the SF-based company, Amour Vert. Is that not the perfect little saying? I may be a little biased though since Paris is on my bucket list and I love being a Cali girl! I think the tote might be currently sold-out but I'll bet they'll get more in if you're interested. 

Steve Madden "Bride" sandals, old. Color Club nail polish in "Modern Pink"

Maxi dress by Loft (in petite), last worn below. 

It was so windy that we couldn't get one good single shot from this beach day. Below I'm more dressed up but that's the only difference. 

By now, you all know I'm a self-proclaimed beach bum. If I could live there, or even remotely close by, I would do so in a heartbeat. I'd even live in a shack, cuz that's about all we can afford! Unfortunately, I'm about 45 minutes away from the coastline and that often means road trips on the weekends. Even after Summer is long gone, my husband and I will bring blankets, sweaters, and usually a bottle of wine to share on the beach while the sun goes down (we have to be discreet about the wine because you aren't supposed to drink on the beach here in SoCal. Correct me if I'm wrong fellow Californians!) Any chance we get, we head for the ocean. They say that saltwater is the cure for just about any ailment, and I strongly believe that. It centers me, and allows me to feel present in my life. Most of the time I don't feel balanced, as I'm a chronic worrier and my anxiety gets the better of me. But hearing the waves and seeing how infinite the ocean is reminds me that I am here. And that I shouldn't take any minute of my life for granted.

By the way, Happy Friday! I'll make it to the coast at some point this weekend :)

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New Spring & Summer Bag {Kate Spade}

Kate Spade Claremont Drive "Marcella"

The instant I saw this gorgeous pastel-hued bag on Pinterest, I added it to my Spring board. I immediately had a bad case of "grabby hands" as Chloe would say. My heart has been set on a mint or blush toned bag for this season, but with so many beautiful brands and options out there, how does a girl choose? I'm convinced that Kate Spade knows pretty. Her designs are feminine and whimsical. There's a certain charm about them, and it translates perfectly into what I've been wanting for my next bag. With my "buy less, choose well" motto in mind, I didn't feel an ounce of guilt about this one. I do own a cream quilted KS already, and I've loved it to death. The quality is superior, the design right on target between classic and modern. This bag, with all of its Tiffany blue goodness, is no exception. The color is just breathtaking! The removable strap is an added bonus, although I plan on carrying it without. I like to keep my handbags where I can see them, right on the crook of my elbow :) All I need now is a light floral dress, and I'm (fashion) ready for Spring.

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