BAGPOOR

Gucci 1970 Shoulder Bag

2012-01-31T14:22:00.001-05:00

In the never ending battle between Gucci and Louis Vuitton, Gucci consistently reigns supreme in terms of innovation. Season after season, Frida Giannini presents bagaholics with a myriad of stylish options that do not rely on logomania nor ostentatious collaborations. She understands the rich 90 year history of the brand and has recently focused on reinterpreting classic designs from Gucci's archives. Die-hard Gucci fanatics and celebrities alike flocked to the 1973 and 1921 collections. Now, it's the 1970 collection that has fashionistas swooning. What's not to love about this stunning shoulder bag? The large black python scales provide a flawless backdrop for the golden hardware. The chain strap features a leather handle for extra comfort and the tassel adds a touch of old world glamour. Although, this bag is timeless, it also has an edgy vibe that we've come to appreciate from Gucci. The python version will retail for $3,590, while the nubuck variation will be available for $2,100. Preorder at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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Ralph Lauren Suede Clutch

2012-01-30T11:06:00.000-05:00

When it comes to easy breezy spring styling, it doesn't get any better than a fun daytime clutch. Let's face it. No one wants to lug around a ginormous hobo or tote during the hot summer months. Whether you're taking a quick trip to the mall or a long walk down the beach, it's so much more efficient to simply grab a clutch and go. Crafted in Italy from the finest suede, this Ralph Lauren fold-over clutch is chic and timeless. The braided leather tassel zipper fob is not only convenient, but it's western style is quintessentially Ralph Lauren. Personally, I can't get enough of the bright fuchsia hue, but a camel version is available for those of you who prefer a more neutral look. Purchase at Ralph Lauren boutiques for a very reasonable $495. Also available in orange.

Editor's tip: Don't forget to treat suede before use, in order to prevent water damage and staining.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

2012-01-28T10:59:00.013-05:00

If you think a slow week in fashion will stop us, we've yet to be formally introduced. There's never an excuse for a dull moment, hence my decision to start with the fab antics of Wonderland Magazine's fashion editor, Julia Sarr-Jamois.

Julia was actually spotted in this spearmint Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti coat last week in Milan, but I was literally bombarded with photos of her in the eye-catching number well into this week. She paired the statement piece with those adorable Prada shoes and sweater, well-tailored Christopher Kane pants, and a label-mate to her coat - an Alberta Ferretti shirt.

Julia always looks fab - just google her name if you're a little hazy - but this is definitely a bold look - even for her! This coat is not for the faint of heart, but its definitely giving me a taste of spring, with the gorgeous color. Love!

For those of you looking for an everyday look, I thought this chic belted jacket, an Alberta Ferretti for Spring, would lighten your mood. This could easily be worn now, in the midst of this jumpy hot-cold weather we've been seeing this winter. It retails for under $500.

For something a bit heavier, I think this Edun lamb skin leather coat, with rib sweater sleeves, is a shoe-in! I was in love with the cozy, over-sized collar and lapel, which gives the jacket just the right amount of edge. The gray sweater material at the sleeves further proves the sentiment that gray is a neutral best paired with... well, anything! Goodbye black!

And in keeping with wintry pastels, a la Ms. Sarr-Jamois, please spy this rose-colored mini mailbag from Madewell. At $118, this leather bag is a steal that satiates our love for vintage, with a cutesy flair. The adjustable strap also gives it an added wearability for comfort.

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Celebrity Style File: Emma Stone

2012-01-27T09:01:00.022-05:00

Emma Stone in Gucci

The only thing I love more than a fabulous gown on the red carpet is a fabulous tuxedo on the red carpet. It's chic, modern, and no one loves pulling off a legit pant for a black tie more than me. So please imagine what jumped through my head when I saw the brilliant Ms. Emma Stone rocking (and I do mean rocking) this ridiculously perfect Gucci number a few weeks back at the People's Choice Awards. That kelly green jacket with her flame red hair? Perfection. The slightly un-done-without-being-sloppy blouse? Beyond. The slim leg pant that lead down to the most gorgeous shewelry* I've ever witnessed? My brain is on fire. Please, take a closer look:

Are you ordering this whole look from the Gucci website right now? Don't worry--I don't judge.

So after calming down a bit and wiping up the drool from my chin, I realized that, especially with all this wacky weather we've been experiencing, there is no better outfit to inspire an outing quite like the modified tuxedo. And the good news is that you can replicate this dashing look at every price point, from bargain basement to savings-account-emptying. Let's DIY this black tie tux, shall we?!

This look is essentially 4 pieces: A louche-but-luxe blouse in a neutral tone, an undyingly chic jacket, preferably not-at-all in a neutral tone, a great-fitting pant (also neutral, please!) and a pair of shoes that have the ability to knock people on their chic rears with just one glance.

When it comes to the blouse, it should be a little looser in terms of fit with an airy, soft fabric so it can move with you, you can tuck it in or leave it out (or maybe a little of both?!), but also fit comfortably under your jacket. Also, I like to keep the color neutral in tone. Extra points for a little flair (A ruffle? A neck tie? A spectacular collar detail?) that pops through the blazer.

Clockwise from the top: Haute Hippie Collared Blouse $285, 3.1 Phillip Lim Navy Embellished blouse $395, Chloe Ruffled Silk Mousseline Blouse $1080, ASOS Cami With Ruffle $45, Diane von Furstenburg Tammi Silk Blouse $265, H&M Dame Blouse $47

The jacket is a little trickier, as different blazers suit different shapes, but this style is best when paired with proportion in mind. If you're going loose and drapey on top, go skinny and slim on the bottom, and vice-versa. Also, try to keep it slim through the center to accentuate the waist. Although I'm fairly certain no one is going to be mistaken for a man, it never hurts to flaunt it if you've got it....

Clockwise from the top: Balmain Tuxedo Jacket $3540, Haider Ackermann Turquoise $1995, Topshop Seam Front Waterfall $93, Current Elliot The Diner Jacket $310, Topshop Crop Back Collarless Jacket $130, Rag & Bone Canary Yellow $495

I love a slim pant, and DIY-ing a tuxedo is a really good place to work that. With a silky drape and a skinnier ankle, the right pant can make-or-break this look. Pare it down in terms of color, adornment (zippers, flashy belts and their brethren all distract the eye in this particular get-up..) and let the blazer and the shoes have most of the fun, please!

Clockwise from top: J.Crew Barton Trouser $168, Dolce & Gabbana Stretch Wool Twill Skinnies $645, Maje Slouchy Satin Pants $310, Miu Miu Crepe De Chine $580.

And for la piece de resistance, we have our fancy feet. Never underestimate the power of a good shoe, as lord knows I haven't. You want to play with the big girls in this look--pump up those feet and extend your leg like you're Cindy, dammit! There is no better look to indulge your uber-femme than these shoes in this outfit. Caution: Excessive flirting and a complete loss of muscular structure just south of the ankles may occur. Do not fear, just take a seat, cross your legs, and explain to those around you that you're currently donning "sitting" shoes, and that if they have any issues with this, they may carry you around for the rest of the evening.

If you choose to directly copy any one part of Ms. Stone's Gucci look, do it with the shoes. You need not bother with bracelets, necklaces, and cocktail rings when you're rocking these.

Gucci Olphelie Chain Peep-Toe, $1195. I literally cannot stop staring at these gems. These go above and beyond the call of sartorial duty.

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For more style musings from Liz Shields, check out her fashion blog, I Have a Walk-in Closet, but it's in New Jersey.

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Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity Clutch

2012-01-26T10:36:00.000-05:00

I feel bad about my mini rant geared towards Chrisitan Louboutin last week, especially since it happened to land on the 20th anniversary of his brand. With that being said, I've discovered yet another iteration of his Sweet Charity Clutch that I absolutely adore. Who could resist the leopard-printed calf hair exterior and that stunning studded bow? It's incredibly chic, paired with the black woven leather trim detailing. This bag can be worn as both a clutch and a shoulder bag, thanks to the detachable gold chain strap. The red leather lining is quintessentially Louboutin. This is the kind of bag that will add style to any outfit, for day or evening. Purchase at NET-A-PORTER for $1,595.

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Balenciaga Papier Wand

2012-01-23T09:18:00.003-05:00

No brand understands the concept of reinvention quite like Balenciaga. They have reinterpreted the same hardware for over a decade, yet it always looks fresh and innovative. The new Papier Wand is the epitome of a grab-and-go bag for evening. This clutch immediately draws you in with it's cool exterior, but you have to open it up, in order to truly appreciate it. The functional interior is separated into three large compartments and features a large zippered pocket. Plus, it includes the classic Balenciaga mirror, ideal for touching up your lipstick in the cab. It really doesn't get any more convenient than a magnetic flap closure and who could resist the ultra smooth calfskin? Pair this clutch with a leather jacket and sky high heels for the ultimate model-off-duty look. Purchase the Balenciaga Papier Wand in black or red at Barneys for $1495.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

2012-01-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

Mind you, I'm putting this in perspective, (this is Dakota Fanning, for Christ's sake, not Lindsay Lohan) but remember that little Cosmo debacle a couple weeks ago, where 17-year-old Dakota was plastered next to Cosmo's racy headline "His Best Sex Ever"? Well, the scrutiny from the media hasn't stopped.

The latest controversy? Her recent ad for Marc Jacob's perfume, "Oh, Lola!" Above, the actress poses in front of the ad, which was banned in the U.K. The huge flower placed quite innocently between her legs, didn't go over so well across the pond. According to the Ad Standards Authority, "the length of her dress, her leg and position of the perfume bottle drew attention to her sexuality. Because of that, along with her appearance, we considered the ad could be seen to sexualize a child.”

What offended us the most? The ensemble Dakota was spotted in earlier this week - ankle boots and a hot pink ombre job that could spell the style's untimely end. (This is coming from an ombre fanatic!)

Since Dakota is 17, she has plenty of time to right this fashion wrong. We'll try not to hold this faux pas, or skirt, against her!

Just when we'd all but given up on a Tay Tay spin-off, the reality gods smiled down upon our DVR's. News has swirled that Taylor Jacobson's show, LA Style, is being taped by Oxygen network; the cameras will even be rolling at NY Fashion Week next month.

I have one serious question. Were Brad and Taylor's show contracts penned right along with Rachel Zoe's? And am I going to cover June Ambrose's reality moment with just as much fervor? You better know it!

Please file this news under "things-we-loved-till-the-wheels-fell-off." Apparently the Sex and the City franchise has a Benjamin Button complex. Its matured enough to start aging backwards, thanks to the execs at the CW, where a pilot for the Carrie Diaries has been OK'd. The series would be a prequel to the Carrie and Co. we've grown to love, focusing on Bradshaw's high school days.

Will long-time SATC fans get a kick out of the new series? Highly unlikely! But they wouldn't be the target audience anyway. No news yet on who will play Carrie's character.

And in parting, I leave you with some post-Golden Globe Gucci.

I thought this dress was the perfect answer to the often stuffy awards show. Jessica Alba was spotted in this at a GGA after party, last Sunday. She paired this fun Gucci number with Bulgari earrings and bracelet, and neutral Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. Can't say I never gave you anything - Gorge!

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Jil Sander Fall 2012 Menswear Bags

2012-01-20T12:39:00.000-05:00

I still don't know what to make of the Fall 2012 menswear collections. I'm impressed by quite a few looks, but they're not from any of my go-to designers. Gucci, Burberry Prorsum and Dolce & Gabbana have suddenly been overshadowed by Roberto Cavalli as well as a few designs from Versace and Yves Saint Laurent. Jil Sander, typically known for innovative use of color, showcased a completely black collection. The bags, however, really stood out to me. From a luxurious alligator skin newspaper holder to a leather lunch bag, it was clear that the theme was a modern day Wall Street.

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Nicole Richie's House of Harlow 1960 Clutch

2012-01-19T09:21:00.000-05:00

I didn't even bother watching The Golden Globes this year, because I'm typically quite bored with award shows. However, I did peruse images of the red carpet arrivals and for the most part I was pleasantly surprised. Everyone looked absolutely beautiful and many celebs took risks that definitely paid off. I can't wait for The Academy Awards preshow. While Nicole Richie certainly wasn't one of my best dressed nominees, I was truly mesmerized by her stunning clutch. The natural python skin was a daring match for her ultra glamorous Julien Macdonald dress, and who could resist such an innovative clasp? Richie designed this bag herself, as part of her House of Harlow 1960 line. She'll be using her success in the fashion industry as a mentor on the upcoming NBC show, Fashion Star, in which an unknown designer will be given a multi-million dollar prize to launch several capsule collections. Tune in to the premiere on March 13th at 9/8c.

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Miu Miu Matelassé Luxe Clutch

2012-01-18T09:55:00.058-05:00

Just when I thought I was completely cured of my matelassé addiction, Miu Miu returns to the cult-classic this season and it is just as covetable as ever. If you have never had the opportunity to feel Miu Miu's matelassé calfskin, it is the most plush, sumptuous leather you will ever have the pleasure of caressing. So soft in fact that this bag could easily double as a pillow on a long flight. Available in two neutral summer shades, this oversized clutch is ideal for casual weekend wear. The golden push-clasp as well as the removable padlock and key practically scream, "luxury." The detachable shoulder strap offers added versatility and the fully lined satin interior features pouch and zippered pockets . Both, the papaya and taupe variations are available at NET-A-PORTER for $1,150.

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Christian Louboutin Sybil Tote

2012-01-17T09:29:00.004-05:00

Bambi was one of the few Disney movies that I never liked growing up, in addition to Fantasia, but we won't digress into that extended acid trip. It always made me so sad that Bambi's mom was killed. Now that I finally know what happened to her, I'm even more disgusted. That's right ladies and gentlemen. The villainous hunter was actually Christian Louboutin, and he murdered Bambi's innocent mom just to create this monstrosity of a bag. Let's face it. I'm not exactly renewing my PETA membership here. I own an exotic skinned accessory or two, and I'm not even opposed to a little fur here and there. However, even I have to admit that Christian Louboutin's Sybil Tote is absolutely vile. Is it just me or did that springbok just move?

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Roberto Cavalli Florence Bag

2012-01-16T09:57:00.004-05:00

Roberto Cavalli is the king of animal prints, so it's only fitting that his spring collection was an exotic skin extravaganza. My favorite supermodel, Naomi Campbell, stars in the ad campaign and shows off the new Florence bag. Decked out in the finest crocodile skin, this tote is the perfect elegant daytime essential. It features two handles and the added versatility of a shoulder strap. The flap closure showcases an oversized python-embossed padlock. The Florence Bag will be available at Roberto Cavalli boutiques come spring. I can't wait to see all of the leather variations in person.

UPDATE: The Roberto Cavalli Florence Bag was JUST spotted on Heidi Klum in a lovely blue ostrich skin.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

2012-01-14T11:00:00.003-05:00

Award season is upon us, and since I'm certain most of you missed the People's Choice Awards (the Who Who What??), I've got our favorite looks from the ceremony - the best part, of course! I have to admit, the majority of what I saw on the red carpet was sleep inducing, but two ladies stole the show by giving us a playful exit.

Above, Lea Michele brought some swing with this sassy Marchesa affair. I literally wasn't sold on the look, until I saw the detail on the back. Give them something to reconsider ladies!

Miley Cyrus was also white-hot in a David Koma dress and red pumps. I was quite surprised to find her on my best dressed list, but there's no denying her or her Marchesa clutch! The sheer paneling and bright prints throughout the hem made for a more grown up look for Miley, that was still young and fresh. I'm even loving her arm candy Liam Hemsworth.

This week at the Critics' Choice Awards, Viola Davis showed these Jr. mints how to make an appearance! She stunned the crowd in this red Raoul dress, from their pre-fall 2012 collection, and picked up a Best Actress award for The Help, on her way out. Make way for the Queen please!

I hope to see more looks like this from Viola, who tends to be a bit more conservative on the red carpet. The entire cast of The Help also took an award home for Best Ensemble Cast. Bravo!

Twi-hard or not, you must admit Kristen Stewart is playing hard ball, now that she's scored a deal in the big leagues: an endorsement with Balenciaga. The 21-year-old was recently named as the face of their new womens' fragrance. In an interview with WWD, Stewart detailed her appreciation for the design house.

"Balenciaga has always stood out to me. Even when I first began to consider fashion and admittedly rarely knew the brand I was wearing, I always recognized and loved Balenciaga. It feels full circle to be involved with something that spoke to me then and of course continues to excite me now."

We're sure the deal does excite you, as well it should! Aside from the Twilight franchise, I've enjoyed Stewart in smaller, indie films like Welcome to the Rileys and am interested to see what's next long-term. Until then, we'll have to wait for Balenciaga promos of the camera shy actress - should be interesting to see the direction they take!

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My Latest Acquisition: Bottega Veneta Edition

2012-01-13T08:54:00.005-05:00

Nero Toro Travel Bag, BOTTEGA VENETA, price available upon request

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Style File: Chloe Sevigny For Opening Ceremony

2012-01-12T14:32:00.002-05:00

Ugh, whatever, Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony

Fashion, like my beloved interwebs, is a little bit of a lawless place. It's sort of like a very chic wild, wild west, and people are pretty much free to do as they please. And lest we forget that fashion is a fabulous form of art in which everyone can partake, this lawlessness is probably a good thing.

I said probably, Chloe Sevigny. We get that as the leader of the hipster militia, you are entrusted with the hefty job of spreading your hipsteria like little dew drops of cuckoo every which way you go. But the thing of it is, I have yet to meet a person alive, hipster or not, who wants to look like a trussed lamb and/or isn't in a wedding circa 1982. Our corseted model up top is one rather sharp kitchen knife and a bed of rice away from becoming a fancy dinner from an old-timey cartoon. In other words...:

Oh, but Chloe! Your crowned lamby look is, in all honesty, the lesser of several evils in your Pre-Spring '12 designs for Opening Ceremony. Let's all take a look at these:

Chloe Sevigny by way of C+C Music Factory for Opening Ceremony

I swear to everyone reading this post, I used to wear bike shorts identical to these under my fluo Umbra shorts when I was 10 years old. Listen, I'm not proud, I was too young to know any better, plus, it's really hard to do the running man in Z. Cavariccis, and this was considered the only appropriate alternative. So in this case, I think we can all agree that Chloe's abuse of this lawlessness is twofold: 1) She brought back a look for adults (excuse me, anyone who is able to shop online and pay $120 for snazzy bike shorts, so perhaps adults who have cold, hard cash burning holes in their perfectly decent pants...) that should have been left in 1992 along with fluo Umbros, and 2) She completely stole just about every look from the famed "Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)" video from C+C Music Factory:

Chloe Sevigny, you're making me sweat 'til I bleed just looking at this collection. The time has come for you to put your pencil down and step away from the reclaimed wood desk upon which you design.

© 2012 Liz Shields for Bagpoor/I Have A Walk-In Closet But It's In New Jersey...

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Emily Blunt's Marchesa Clutch

2012-01-11T18:00:00.000-05:00

Does it get any chicer than Emily Blunt at the Salmon Fishing in the Yemen premiere? Clearly, being Miranda Priestly's first assistant has its perks, because this is one of the few times when I actually NEED to discuss an entire ensemble. Obviously her bold Marchesa clutch instantly got my attention. Rows upon rows of studded embellishment completely envelope this decidedly edgy bag. The lattice detailing of her multi-tonal Marios Schwab dress is truly breathtaking and one can never go wrong with classic Christian Louboutin sandals. Pink and grey is an incredibly stylish color combination and Blunt's outfit is the perfect juxtaposition of hard and soft elements. It's ladylike and glamorous, yet youthful and rocker chic. Can I be her when I grow up?

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Bottega Veneta Intreciatto Crossbody Bag

2012-01-10T17:09:00.000-05:00

Ever since I picked up my first Bottega Veneta bag this fall (I promise to FINALLY take pics and blog about it this week), I've become a bit of an addict. It's the ideal brand for anyone who prefers timeless investment pieces, but doesn't want to see their bags on every other woman walking down the street. They're known for their intreciatto weave detailing, but they don't have a logo or monogram plastered all over their bags. The truth is, most people don't know who designed my bag, but I receive compliments on it all the time That's exactly how I like it. The sumptuous lambskin on this particular bag is a bold fuchsia hue. If you want to incorporate one trend into your handbag collection this season, try a bright pop of color. I guarantee you wont be disappointed. They can completely transform a simple look and they're more wearable than you'd think. This crossbody style features an adjustable shoulder strap finished with Bottega's signature knot detail. Purchase at my favorite e-tailer, NET-A-PORTER, for $1,250.

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Rachel Weisz's Roger Vivier Pilgrim Clutch

2012-01-09T10:00:00.010-05:00

Rachel Weisz recently attended the Madrid premiere of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, which is an awesome thriller by the way. She and her husband, Daniel Craig, make for quite a dashing couple. I adore her monochromatic noir ensemble, especially the bold choice of a Roger Vivier statement bag. The Pilgrim clutch debuted this fall in a myriad of different styles, all featuring a buckle closure reminiscent of the shoes often worn by pilgrims. Weisz's variation is enveloped in stunning black crow feathers and it's the perfect compliment to her sophisticated, yet modern look. As for her acting career, I'm certainly looking forward to her role in the next installment of the Bourne franchise, The Bourne Legacy.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

2012-01-07T01:10:00.019-05:00

First things first, with the return of our weekly fashion roundup, it would be unforgivable if we failed to lead with all things Rachel Zoe.

If you caught the start of "It's a Brad, Brad World" (yes, Brad Goreski still falls in the "all things Rachel Zoe" category) - you know there are too many things we need to get into.

For instance: can you deal with Brad in head-to-toe leopard Givenchy? And even though "looking cute doesn't pay the bills," what happens when you have a garage full of floor-length couture dresses and it rains? Better yet, are all chances of a Tay Tay spinoff caput?

It's really all too much, but that's why we love it! In case you missed Brad's debut, catch a glimpse of his leopard moment (because I'm pretty sure that's all you can take), up top.

In other Rachel related news, Ms. Zoe herself has additional business plans up her sleeve. Rachel is still expanding her brand and will launch two new collections, aside from her shoe, handbag and ready-to-wear lines.

She hasn't announced what's in store exactly, but she knows we're all watching. I'm truthfully more excited to see what tiny outfits Rachel's little one will be sporting next season.

Speaking of babies destined for uberly lavish wardrobes, Mama Bey was spotted in NYC this week, nearly bursting with her bundle of joy. This wig definitely goes down in the top 10 for B, and I hope she's buckling this one into the back seat a la Kim Zolciak. It should be treated with care!

Are you feeling Beyonce's wintery ensemble and burnt orange Chanel shoulder bag? One thing's for sure - she's definitely a-glow!

Keeping with the subject of the underaged, Cosmo's latest issue had hordes of people up in arms over Dakota Fanning gracing the cover. Yes, Cosmo is unquestionably known for its sexy headlines, followed by even friskier contents inside its pages, but do we really care that 17, going on 18-year-old Dakota signed up for the gig?

The girl has played in dozens of mature roles throughout her childhood, so I'm sure Cosmo won't spoil what Hollywood already hasn't! In 2012, what young star transitioning into adulthood hasn't done a risque cover to shed the good girl image. In the grand scheme of things, this drama seems a little predictable and underwhelming.

The real question is, who designed Dakota's dress? Loves!

And since I can't help myself... in the most important news ever, Blair Waldorf ~~everyone's~~ my favorite Gossip Girl, is tying the knot - and in none other than Vera Wang!

I'm incredibly lost as to what is going on in the show nowadays, but I may tune in for her planned wedding to the Prince of Monaco. (Who cares if she goes through with it, bring on the ceremony and more dress close ups please!)

Apparently the show has viewers much more loyal than I, as it will be bringing in its 100th episode for the wedding extravaganza. It airs January 30th. XOXO

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Emma Stone's The Row Lizard Clutch

2012-01-06T15:31:00.002-05:00

Emma Stone attended the American Museum of Natural History Gala, wearing a pretty peach gown, stunning emerald studs and an elegant gray lizard clutch from The Row. Amidst the tragicness that is young Hollywood, Stone appears to be one of the few refreshingly normal starlets in the bunch. With her milky skin, scarlet hair and healthy body, she's a scary reminder of what Lindsay Lohan could have been. Stone's major break-out role in The Help garnered her a great deal of attention in 2011 and she's starring in The Amazing Spider-Man this summer. The anthracite hue of this clutch, paired with gold-plated hardware is unquestionably chic and glamorous. Although, this is certainly an investment piece, it will definitely stand the test of time. Purchase at NET-A-PORTER for $5,800.

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Style File: Mischa Barton

2012-01-05T11:14:00.011-05:00

Mischa Barton wearing everything she packed for her holiday in Miami.

Dear Mischa Barton,

I would like to let you know that I am contacting you as I was floating in my hovercraft, gracefully drifting about Florida's southeastern coastal region, and I could see you from space, which has caused small-to-medium-small levels of concern on my behalf.

I'm not even sure where to begin, so we'll go bottom up and see where the mood takes us:

1. You're in Miami. Miami, Florida. Not Miami, Ohio. With that out of the way, I think we can safely determine that your excessively laced-up leather granny boots and the houndstooth wool-cashmere blend blazer are not necessary, and, more pointedly, need not be worn in tandem. You know what? That whole "in tandem" thing goes for anywhere on Earth, not just cities that trend above 65 degrees in wintertime.

2. You're wearing socks. Socks do no one any favors unless one is shoveling snow or walking on a rather coolly-surfaced tile of sorts. That said, let's elongate the leg by not cutting if off at it's skinniest point. Ankle sock class dismissed.

3. You should've bought the belt a size or two or three or four smaller. I could hang your blazer from the excess.

4. Speaking of things that do you no favors, simply looking at your biblace (That would be a bib-necklace hybrid, and yes, you did hear it here first...) is making my neck hurt. It's unnecessarily weighty, and I'm not sure why you're putting even more strain on your precious neck when it already has to hold up....

5. ...your newly dyed head of red. What compelled you to do that? Did your parents not hug you enough as a child? Do you intend to jumpstart your 2012 with an evolution into a chili pepper?

Let's discuss what might be some super-productive resolutions for your new year after my desperate attempts to help curb your voracious appetite for blechy-ness. For onesies, ditch the onesies. I have a really unpleasant vision of you trying to wrangle yourself about a public restroom 100% naked with your entire outfit dragging along the ground just south of your ankles and your hands full of bibs and belts and blazers and coppery hair dye. For twosies, never wear a pair of shoelaces that would be better suited for a quick game of cat's cradle. For threesies, I know it's hard to do when you're overheated and really uncomfortable, but try to smile, because life is short and your hair will, in time, grow out.

Sending you hugs that are bigger than Peter Gallagher's eyebrows,

Mistress

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L'Wren Scott Lula Weekend Bag

2012-01-04T16:16:00.003-05:00

I've been keeping my eye on L'Wren Scott's handbag collection since it debuted in May. I was instantly impressed by the classic designs, but I'm always leery of uber expensive lines backed by celebrity designers. Where Victoria Beckham and the Olsen twins muster the courage to charge Chanel and Hermès prices is beyond me? Their designs are lovely and sophisticated, but they lack the esteemed name recognition of century old fashion brands. Initially, I thought Scott was simply going to utilize her status as Mick Jagger's girlfriend and churn out overpriced mediocrity. However, I am truly blown away by this weekender. It has all the makings of a lust-worthy luxury bag. Crafted in Italy from the finest leather, this bag features several interior organizational compartments and a zippered pocket. The large flap front pocket is perfect for easy access to traveling essentials, like your passport. This bag even includes a removable portfolio, to protect your important documents. Due to the large size of this weekender and the fact that it is leather lined, the option of a crossbody strap would have been ideal. The leather version is available at Barneys for $4,000, while the python variation retails for $6,900 and features stunning matte black hardware.

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M Missoni Woven Wool Shoulder Bag

2012-01-03T15:54:00.001-05:00

Let's take a break from the python parade and get a closer look at Missoni's latest offering. Fashionistas are embracing bright hues this spring, and who better than Missoni to satisfy our color fix? I love the blue, black and maroon woven wool exterior of this flap bag, but the real showstopper is undoubtedly the multicolored acrylic chain link shoulder strap. A modern metal plaque and a quintessentially Missoni striped lining add to the quirky aesthetic. Pair this bag with a white maxi dress and you're out the door in effortless bohemian style. Since this shoulder bag is from Missoni's lower priced 'M' line, it's actually affordable at only $465. Purchase at NET-A-PORTER, which is having a MAJOR sale by the way.

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Carlos Falchi Python Crossbody Pouch

2012-01-02T13:50:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Let's ring in 2012 with an adorable python bag from Carlos Falchi. I've always admired his ability to make exotic skins accessible, both in price and style. Of course, his sophisticated designs are equally as covetable, but sometimes a girl just wants to have fun. The pewter variation has a trendy metallic finish and the zipper pull showcases innovative tiered tassels of gold, silver and white. This bag features a luxurious suede lining as well as one interior zipped pocket and an open exterior pocket on the back. The crossbody strap is so convenient and perfect for casual weekend wear. Lastly, I almost fell out of my chair when I discovered that this bag was made in the USA. It doesn't get any better than that. Purchase at Neiman Marcus for a very reasonable $495. Also available in black and white natural python skin.

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Jimmy Choo Justine Handbag

2011-12-25T01:45:00.003-05:00

It's official. Bright hues are a major trend for spring. Personally, I love the look in small doses, as Jimmy Choo has done with their new Justine handbag. The sizeable bag is crafted out of sumptuous calfskin and features a contrasting python panel, in your choice of yellow or emerald green. It has a casual slouchy shape that is ideal for weekend wear. The exterior flap pocket offers added convenience and I adore the oversized hardware. The small version retails for $3395, while the large variation will be available at Jimmy Choo boutiques this spring for an additional 600 bucks. The leather iterations are significantly cheaper, but they're a bit bland in comparison. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I'll be gone from the blogosphere for a few days. Enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. I'll return in 2012, with new contributors and, of course, more designer handbags.

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