The Perfect Everyday Tote

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If you're looking for a reasonably priced and good quality all day tote then this Day Market Tote from Everlane is for you. This structured tote comes in a variety of colors, is made of premium Italian leather, and is super stylish. But if you want one hurry because they are in high demand and there is already a waitlist for some of the colors! 

Lately I have been carrying my Mansur Gavriel tote for work and to and from barre classes and it's very similar to the size and shape of this Everlane bag. The only issue with my current tote is that it a bit more delicate and has a ton of scratches. 

Shop some of my favorite everyday totes 

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7 Tips for Buying A Luxury Handbag

It's no secret I have a huge love for luxury designer handbags and I have done several posts, articles, and TV segments on this topic. (here, here, and here ) I definitely gravitate towards bags that are classic and timeless and I am in the process right now of adding a new bag to my collection. In the past I have bought bags without really doing the proper research and I have made some mistakes along the way. So now I try and take more time before making such a huge purchase and I try and follow these 7 tips when buying a luxury handbag. 

Also several people recently have asked me which bag I would recommend right now. I think this is always such a tough and personal question because it depends on what type of bag you want, your budget, what bags you already have in your closet.  I went ahead and included some of my favorite designer bags and you can shop them below. 

 

7 Tips For Buying A Luxury Handbag 

1. Do your research.  Start your search for a luxury handbag with some online research.  I like to hop on You Tube and watch reviews of the bags I am looking at. I also like to go on Instagram and do a hash tag search to see how other people are wearing and styling bags. Lastly, blogs like The Purse Blog and Purse Forum are super helpful for reviews on designer handbags. 

2. Color match with your wardrobe. Choose a color that works with your current wardrobe. I like to visualize a few outfits and make sure the bag matches with items in my wardrobe.  I recommend not spending a lot of money on designer bags that not neutral or colors you don't wear a lot. You will just end up getting tired of that color or you will find it isn't versatile enough for you and it will end up just sitting on your shelf. 

3. Evaluate your current bag collection and lifestyle. Luxury bags are expensive and you don't want to buy a new bag that is too similar in style or color to a bag already in your collection. Also it's good to take inventory of the bags you have and assess what type of bag is missing and where are the gaps are. For example you may want to ask yourself Do I need a cross body or a mini bag? Do I need a large tote to carry items from day to night? Evaluating your lifestyle and how you will use the bag is really important in determining the best type of bag to purchase. 

4. Price research. Shop around and look at pre owned market. I find that most of the time you don't save a lot and it's best to just get it from the store. But sometimes you get lucky and the bag you are looking for is available pre-owned and it's a great price. 

5. Try it on. This one is so important. If you are able to I recommend going to the store and trying on the bag. Be sure to check out the length of the straps and see how you like the size of the bag. Also make sure you can easily take things in and out of the bag and that all your necessary items fit in the bag. Take your time and really make sure you love the bag. 

6. Wait. Don't impulse buy but instead take a little time to think it over and make sure it's something you really want to add. I usually go home and think it over for a couple of days.  I have made a couple of impulse purchases in the past and have regretted those purchases. Now I take my time and make 100% sure the bag is the right one for me. 

7. Buy the bag and enjoy!  Buying the bag is the fun part. But remember to inspect the item for quality with stitching, handles, hardware etc. Make sure you're happy with the bag before you purchase it. Once you purchase your bag enjoy it and use it. I can't tell you how many of my clients don't use their bags. Handbags are meant to be used as much as possible. To help retain the shape stuff your handbags with tissue, dust bags, or old clothes. Lastly display your bags on open shelves if you can. If you see your bags you are more likely to use them daily. 

(Photos by Bonnie Sen Photography) 

Shop some of my favorite luxury designer handbags below 

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Splurge vs STEAL

While I love investing in luxury pieces when I can, sometimes it’s not always practical from a budget standpoint - especially when it comes to trendy pieces (like gold heels or sneakers with stars on them). In this post I’ve rounded up a few trendy pieces (and a few classics) and found dupes that are much less expensive, yet still of great quality. Let me know in the comments below if you’ve found any fantastic dupes lately, I’d love to see your steals!- Faith

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Not Shown- Topshop Gold Heels | Copenhagen Star Sneakers |  Zara slides | Chanel Patent Quilted Bag 

The IT LIST- Summer Safari

For summer months nothing is more fun than a bit of simple print mixing, lots of cognac brown shades, and some killer sunglasses. Safari themed accessories are hitting the spot and have me dreaming of a vacation far, far away. Layer up with wooden accessories and lots of texturing mixing for a fun take on neutral tones. Check out the links below for all of the accessories I’m loving as of late. 

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Faith Pierce is a regular contributor to STYLE'N.  For more of her work, check out her blog or follow her on Twitter and Instagram. 

STYLE PROFILE- Sheila and Laura of she + lo

Today's STYLE PROFILE features the super talented founders and designers Sheila Nazarian and Laura Darrah of she + lo. 

Offering everyday handbags with an edge, she + lo launched its Fall 2014 collection in August in such retail and online stores as Henri Bendel, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Shopbop.com, RevolveClothing.com, as well as select boutiques across the U.S.

Follow she + lo on Twitter and Facebook. 

1. What does a typical day look like for you?

L: There rarely is such thing as a “typical day”… Being co-creative directors of She + Lo, we are involved in all creative aspects of the business on a daily basis, including designing our new collections, producing our campaigns, directing our photo shoots, social media, attending PR events, or traveling to present at Market Week.  

S: Every day brings something totally new. Laura and I are always in contact so no matter where we are, we are able to discuss what is going on within the company.

2. How would you describe your personal style?

L: My daily style mixes an element of casual and dressy… I live in denim and tees, mixed with a pump or heel.  

S: I am definitely all about comfort mixed with staple pieces. I always have to have jewelry on- it's a must.

3. What are your favorite items in your wardrobe and why?

L: My grandma’s watch… she was a wonderful woman, I don’t go a day without wearing it. Rag & Bone denim (because they are a perfect fit), James Perse tees (b/c they are so cozy), and my new Vans high tops (a gift from my husband).  

S: My nude Patrizia Pepe leather jacket and my Vinces.

4. Do you have any style or beauty secrets to share?

L: I have and always will be addicted to Davines dry shampoo spray. I have fine hair, so it does miracles… plus it smells SO good!

S: My secret to getting my favorite nail color is by applying 2 coats of Essie Ballet Slippers & 1 coat of Essie Waltz. The color is perfect.

5. How do you spend your "me" time?

L: On Pinterest researching home décor/renovation ideas!

S: Catching up on my favorite TV shows!

6. What is the most important thing you have learned through running your own business?

L: To deal with the high & lows with grace. One day can make you feel great about your brand, and the next can make you feel like you are dodging a bullet… it’s both the exciting and terrifying parts of running a company!  

S: Completely agree with Laura! It's all about balance- Lo and I are really great at tackling projects together- it makes running a business much easier when you have someone you work with that you can completely trust. 

7. What is your mantra? 

L: We have only one shot at life, so live it to the fullest, take risks, and don’t be afraid to fail!

S: The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything.

Style Profile is a bi monthly style column featuring creative and talented entrepreneurs and business owners. I feature the stylish women behind these successful businesses and brands, their personal style, and share a glimpse into their typical work day.  

Shop she + lo handbags

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