Dallas Frosty Fashion: Featuring Allison Mitchell, Kissue, & FM Fashion Music

The weather here in Dallas has finally dropped, so I headed out to Addison Circle to take some pics of how I layer, yet stay fashion-forward in the frostier weather. I always tell my personal shopping clients that layering is key for the cooler weather seasons. While it may appear that this concept is simple, it really could be a cinch if done correctly. The art to great layering is still having a consistent, fluid look as each piece is removed off of each other.

For this look, I took a basic black fashion FREEDOM tee from FM Fashion Music (pictured above) and layered it with a shearling vest from Kissue.  This ensemble by itself is perfect indoors.  As I stepped outside, I completed this already layered look with a leather jacket. I chose one of my shorter leather jackets to let the flaps from my Kissue vests hang out -- creating an assymetrical, yet warm appearance. Add in a great pair of slouch boots and how could I forget -- a fabulous Allison Mitchell foldover clutch for a pop of color and now I'm good to go!

 

 

 

 

All images from Addison Circle credit: Cameron Pate

 

 

National Handbag Day 2014: Top Picks and Top Trends

Did you know that there was a National Handbag Day? Well I didn't either until recently, but whoever thought of October 10th as the day that will honor only the greatest of wardrobe accessories is just pure GENIUS! I'm completely obsessed with handbags and will admit openly here that I have an addiction. From totes to crossbody bags to clutches, I have an overflowing closet full of handbags in different shapes, sizes and colors and for different occasions. In honor of National Handbag Day, I've decided to list out my top handbag picks and trends for 2014. Ready to swoon?  Here you go!

Top Trend for 2014: Bucket Bags



Bucket bags are making a comeback and is notably one of the top handbag trends for 2014. My favorite is the Mansur Gavriel bucket bag which is in such high demand that you have to be on a list to pre-order the handbag!  I want it and I want it now!

My Top Tote for 2014: Freedom of Animals Veronika Tote

This tote is one that is both basic and functional but also so incredibly well made that it will stop people dead in their tracks when they see it. I compared this to the "poor man's Hermes Birkin" handbag in one of my earlier posts (read here) and it truly is. I get looks and inquiries everytime I wear this handbag!

Photo Credit: Thomas Garza

Top Casual Bag for 2014: Hobo Crossbody Bag

The crossbody bag is definitely one of the top casual handbags for 2014. From festivals to a casual walk in the park, this highly multi-functional bag is one that can be easily dressed up and down and one that needs to be in every gal's closet. My favorite brand for crossbody's this year would definitely be Hobo. They are very well made, using fine quality leathers and did I mention...oh so cute!

Top Clutch: Bottega Venetta

Clutches are definitely a staple for the handbag enthusiast. Whether worn casually in a light fabric or embellished lavishly for a formal night out on the town, clutches are definitely one of my favorite "purses" to carry. So what clutch has caught my eye this year as a top pick? I'm head over heels for the Bottega Veneta clutch. It's simple, yet elegant and everywhere I shop, I notice brands trying to emulate this popular style.

Photo from: www.shopjacquem.com

Top Local Handbag for 2014: Jacque M (Gimme Fringe!)


Lastly, on a local level, handbag extraordinaire Jacque M is taking the DFW handbag world by storm. With her unique and innovative designs, this local designer has definitely caught my eye. For 2014, I fell in love with the Accessories in the Nude Competition winner's fringe detail on her one-of-a-kind foldover clutches. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. I can't wait to see what top picks and trends 2015 will bring! Have a favorite handbag of yours that you would like to share? Email me a pic and you may just make a future blog post!

Hermes Birkin Look-a-like: The Freedom of Animals Veronika Tote

The Hermes Birkin handbag is one of the top coveted handbags for women. It's a handbag that all of the Hollywood celebs carry but of course, one that the layman could only dream of affording. Birkin bags can be in the upwards of $25,000 to $30,000 depending on the materials, size and construction of the bag. You also have to be on a "list" to get the bag...you can't just walk into the store and order one.

                                       

                                           

(Kim K and Eva Longoria with their Birkin bags)

So now, let's just keep it real. If any one of us spent $30,000 on a handbag we would (1) have buyer's remorse and (2) would probably have to take out a second mortgage on our home. Just sayin.... So if you've been reading my blog posts long enough, you know that I stay on the hunt for the best look-a-like luxury designer bags at the layman's affordable price.

Welp, I found my "Poor Man's Birkin."  I walked into local boutique, Piermarini, about a month ago for something totally unrelated than finding a handbag...but when I saw the Freedom of Animals "Veronika" tote, I immediately fell in love.  It looked like a Birkin, had the class of a Birkin and just exuded everything indicative of luxury and class. Best part...it was approximately $480 and not $30,000.  I would say that that is quite the steal!

The Veronika Tote by Freedom of Animals

After I got over my infatuation with this handbag, I dug a little deeper into this new-found luxury brand. The label is completely eco-friendly, and all about constructing cruelty-free products.  So while my handbag looks like leather, it is vegan leather but totally created for sustainability.There were only 2 of these available at Piermarini and I bought one, so you better get down there today if you're in Dallas as this bag won't be there for long. If you're not in Dallas, take a look at the collection here and order online today!  I receive a ton of looks and compliments when I'm carrying this bag.  Pair them with some fabulous shades and you will be envied by most.

Again, I've done all of the work for you finding the most affordable look-a-like..its up to you to purchase. You can thank me later!

I'm in love with this bag!!!!

Fab Fashion Find: Rebecca Minkoff's Amorous Saffiano Satchel Bag

Last weekend, I ventured off to L.A. for the Lucky Fabb (Lucky Magazine Fashion and Beauty Bloggers) Conference at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. I was taking a break from all of the breakout sessions when I spotted this Rebecca Minkoff Amorous Saffiano Satchel bag staring at me from one of the tables in the vendor rooms.

Rebecca Minkoff Amorous Saffiano Satchel in red - $325.00 (come to mama!)

Now you guys know how I am about my handbags.  I'm completely obsessed.  So of course, once I put my hands on this puppy, I didn't want to let go. I love how minimal the look is, but the handbag even in its most simple nature can upgrade any outfit because that's just how luxurious it looks.

The nerve of the Wendy's employee at the conference to try to get this fabulous handbag away from me.  Clearly she doesn't know about my handbag obsession.

I'm obsessed with this handbag!  The pop of color is phenomenal!

For those not willing to pay $325.00 for this handbag, I've done some research for you. I found a look-alike with one of my fave brands, London Fog for a whopping $89.00. (You can thank me later.)

London-Fog Avery Dome / Rebecca Minkoff Handbag Look-Alike for $89.00 (Wow-zers!)

Moschino Pre-Fall Collection: Worth the Spend or Just a Trend?

Sometimes I take a look at what apparel items are released in the fashion world and just scream "WHY?!" 

All the rage on Instagram right now are the subtle droppings of photos of the Moschino Pre-Fall handbag collection designed by the new creative director, Jeremy Scott.  I'm not going to lie...the handbags are definitely eye-catching, interesting and make for a good editorial; but who else besides the Hollywood elite will actually wear these bags?

Moschino handbags are not exactly the most expensive when it comes to designer handbags but if I'm going to spend $500 - $1,200 on a handbag...then it better be functional, multi-faceted and still in fashion 5-10 years down the road.  That's just my two sense on these new bags that look like jackets.  Very artistic...very creative, but my jacket goes on my back...not my arm.

I'm curious...what are your thoughts on the Moschino Pre-Fall handbag collection?  Is it worth the spend to you or just a trend???

Photo Credit: Jane H. Bishop for Vogue.com

All photos credit to Moschino

My newest obsession: Hardware Clutches by Mel C.

It's high into Dallas fashion season right now and it seems like there are at least 4 or 5 events per week. Every event requires a different outfit and the probability of getting photographed is high.  I'll admit that my collection of clutches are few and I end up recycling between the same 2 or 3 bags.  It's one of those things where I tell myself to buy more clutches for the evening events and I just end up buying more shoes or jewelry. Anyways, I was scrolling through Instagram when one of the bloggers I follow posted a clutch by Mel C.-- From that moment on I was hooked!

Chevron and hot pink mini clutch by Hardware Clutches by Mel C. - $30.00

I purchased this mini clutch several days ago and I can't wait for it to get here.  According to Melissa, the creator of Hardware Clutches, she makes all of her clutches by hand and at times only one of each.  The prices are super affordable and I get extremely happy that I don't have to worry about seeing anyone else in Dallas carrying the same clutch as me.

Browse through her site today...her clutches are incredible!  

xoxo ~ Leah

Polka Dot Paradise

Given everything that has happened with the recent tornadoes, I was thrilled to see gorgeous weather.  I was imagining a great vacay on a boat, with sparkling waters and a small breeze.  With these visions in my head, I quickly put on my Vince Camuto polka-dot romper and snapped some photos.  And wouldn't you know it....as soon as I got done, the clouds rolled in and the rain started to pour!  I knew my weather bliss couldn't last for long! 

Navy Polka Dot Romper by Vince Camuto, Steve Madden wedges, Tom Ford Shades, Handbag by C.N.C.

Fabulous Find: Celine Bag "Look a Like"

The French luxury brand, Celine, has some of the hottest handbags in the market right now.  If you're like me, sometimes you want the luxury brands for less.  You want to look the part without paying the part. The most popular Celine bag is the Phantom...it has protruding side details and can run anywhere between $2,400.00 to $3,000.00.

(Dakota Fanning carrying a Celine Phantom handbag)

I had already decided that I was going to purchase a smaller version of the Celine Phantom handbag roughly two weeks ago.  So imagine my surprise as I go into DSW for a last-minute Easter shoe run today, to see a Celine look-a-like handbag made by London Fog.  The handbag retails at $150.00 and I got it for $75.00!!!!

(Available at DSW Stores, appears to be only in-store and not online)



It looks fabulous, feels fabulous and I'm not out of $3,000.00.  Just wanted to share this secret with you guys especially since I saw one woman walking out with this London Fog handbag in both cherry and mustard colors.  According to the salesgirl, these bags are going fast!  Keep plugged in for more of my fabulous fashion finds!