Hello Kitty Bling for your Ring

I am completely out of Hello Kitty's demographic, although Kimora Lee probably wants me to think otherwise. She has taken Hello Kitty and blinged it up several notches with her diamond jewelry line that originally sold at Neiman Marcus. Now she's gone more mainstream and taken her wares to Zales. While I was admittedly tempted by this iPhone case, my brain got the better of me and I decided to pass on a plastic $200 case. I was almost done in by the Swarovski crystals. Other people gave in because I see it's sold out on the site. If you want your Hello Kitty iPhone bling, check it out at Zales.

Still crazed for MBMJ Flights of Fancy?

I've been reading everywhere that the line Flights of Fancy (Marc by Marc Jacobs) is impossible to find. Difficult, yes, but impossible, no. Some items are even on sale. Now's probably your last chance to grab what's left in this line.

You can nab the key chain and mirror at Endless.com although they are not on sale:

And as luck would have it, the lovely cat shoulder bag just happens to be 50% off at Net-a-Porter.

Where's our winter rain when you want it?

There is a plethora of great boots available this season. Something for everyone. Although the sales aren't as scandalous as they were last year (ah, remember Saks at 70% off?), style has not been omitted. Most encouraging is the fact that designers are coming to grips with the fact that their customers (aka non models) have calves wider than #2 pencils. I continue to be impressed with what Gucci has been churning out and I am anxiously awaiting two more pairs of boots from the sale on the website. A lot has been sold out already so I'm glad I acted fast. The first is the Devendre and the second is the Prato (which I've also seen at Saks).

Oh lolly lolly pop

I didn't notice this scarf at first on the Gucci website. But isn't it the cutest thing? Anything that combines fashion + food is good in my book. And even better it's on sale on the Gucci website. I can't wait for this one to arrive in the mail.

Holiday sweater time

I know I have to be over loud holiday printed sweaters. I always thought they were cute but now I have learned that they are not necessarily the most chic looking thing to wear for holiday gatherings. This year I found a not-so-boring cashmere sweater that has a little bit of interest, just enough to give it some life. These sweaters are available at Macy's.

Hello, Lori? Yes, it's me, Marc ... again.

I have succumbed yet again to Marc Jacobs and his charms (or should I say his bags). His more affordable line, Marc by Marc Jacobs, continues to keep my attention. At the last Neiman Marcus Mid-day Dash, I came across yet another bag at a fabulous price that needed to be added to my collection. I've never had this many Marc Jacobs bags at one time. I'm going to run out of room soon. Time to expand the closet! This one is called the Classic Q Hillier Hobo in Electric Violet.

The cat's on the bag, and maybe out of the bag

I've really taken a liking to Marc Jacobs. His style is very whimsical. I fully expect him to be drafted for a budget priced line for Target within five years. Until then, he keeps on hitting the nail on the head with interesting designs that somehow other fashion houses miss, or think that they can't pull off. This is another piece of his animal line that came out recently. Currently available at Net-a-Porter.

Pass the Sugar

I never liked body scrubs much, they were either too grainy or too rough on my skin. What used to be easy to take care of skin is now sensitive, dry and dull. Hence the necessity for body scrubs. I've tried just about every brand out there and I think Fresh has the best one. The consistency reminds me of natural peanut butter -- the "sugar" part of the scrub can sink to the bottom while the moisturizing oils rise to the top. Don't let this fool you, though; separation is less than a minor annoyance. Try Brown Sugar Body Polish by Fresh, you can find it at Sephora.

Happy Halloween!

A redeeming mid-day dash

I have complained recently about the lack of wearability with items that have been on Neiman Marcus' Mid-day Dashes. Well I believe they have (slightly) redeemed themselves by posting items that people actually need and use. After all, I can only have eight closets stuffed full of ball gowns (insert sarcasm). I saw this bag at an excellent price and realized not only was the price worth it, but it would even be something that I would use on a regular basis. Calculated anticipated cost per wear actually made sense. Now I am anxiously awaiting in the mail my Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q City Bag. They even offered free shipping. I can only hope my order won't get canceled.

More skulls, right before Halloween

As many of us are figuratively chained to our desks during the work week, someone at Neiman Marcus online got the bright idea of a "Mid-day Dash." After hearing the grumblings of many others with regard to the utility of the items offered I began to think it was more of a "Mid-day Downer." Really, I already have a closet full of ball gowns to wear to my next 9 am status meeting, thanks. And the darling matching clutch that will hold all the files I lug around as well as a 15" laptop. Ah, sarcasm.

Leave it to someone at Saks to think of a better way to do this type of flash sale. This morning I got my exclusive email which gave me 24-hour access to merchandise that I actually could use. Casual dresses, jeans, larger bags, sweaters, scarves and sunglasses. All at 50% off. Now that's what I'm talking about!

And of course as I love just about Alexander McQueen puts out, I added a scarf to my collection.

You know it's fall when the faux fur comes out

I'm a little late for fall fashions as they were released months ago. But with the weather here, more days lately have been better suited to cotton cargos. Having just cracked open the November issue of Elle, I fell in teddy bear love with this faux fur vest. Sadly, as print publications fall dismally behind stores and internet, you may have to hunt for this piece of faux fuzz. Online (in limited quantities) at Kohl's.

Smell like a divine pistachio (without the salt)

I got a free sample of Laura Mercier Creme de Pistache Souffle Body Cream the other day. It was hanging out on my desk and my hands were dry, so I gave it a try. It is creamy, light and beyond delightful. I had thought the mere mention of souffle and cream would render it much heavier and not as desirable. I've already made a note to myself to put it on my Christmas list. You can find it at Neiman Marcus.

Hitchcock's new chair (or it should be)

Every once in a while a great furniture design catches my eye. I love interior design, but sadly aside from hitting two home runs with kitchens, I fall flat in other rooms. I leave those to the professionals. Normally Neiman Marcus home decor is a little too fussy for me and sometimes borders on shabby chic, which isn't my style. Maybe I could call this spooky chic?

This chair is perfection -- the concept has been executed in many different ways but I have never seen it done quite like this. I'm scheming to see how I can put one in my own place. It's available by phone and online at Neiman Marcus.

Fish bones as fashion

Any movie lovers? Did you see the Sex and the City movie? If you did, you might remember the high heeled version of this shoe that was worn by Samantha. Although these are flats, they are just as funky and I really hope I can grab a pair for less than retail before they sell out. See them at Saks and also if you'd like to preorder them -- they won't be out for a few months. By Giuseppe Zanotti.

Finally, a lady-like look

I grew up hearing the words "That's not lady-like" a lot. I wasn't quite sure what I would look like or act like if I were truly lady-like. But something tells me true ladies would be wearing gloves that look like this -- a bit longer on the wrist and with classic stitching. These are currently available at Coach Factory Stores. Helpful fashion tip: they run a little shorter in the fingers than other brands I've tried on, so if you have smaller hands, they will be a great fit.

Thinking Passion Purple

I really love Tory Burch flats (except for the plastic ones and the patent ones). Okay, I love the leather and suede ones. And I keep on checking the Tory Burch website to see when the leopard print Revas might reappear. I'm also a sucker for pinkish purple, so when I noticed these on the Saks website I couldn't resist, which probably comes as no surprise.

Buckles 'n' Boots

There have been a plethora of fabulous boots this fall season. Thankfully, not all of them will induce me to break an ankle. Here's a memorable rendition of hard-core buckles and black leather meeting up with the reality of running around all day (and not as a groupie but being seen trolling the aisles of Target for the latest in Halloween costumes for pets). And how can you resist knowing that Saks Friends & Family is coming up this week? I doubt I can. Boots are by Loeffler Randall and are at Saks.

The good looking, smartly priced bag of the year goes to ...

Coach. Yep, Coach. They have come up with some product lines that have seemed more focused toward the younger set, say those without driver's licenses yet. The Poppy line is indicative of that thinking. I too had abandoned Coach until this year, when the Zoe caught my eye. My curiosity was even more piqued when I found them at the outlet stores and I just about fell over when I found additional 20% off coupons. That put me over the edge. I had to try one. I started with a deep red and was hooked. The bag is functional, holds a lot, and is fully lined in a beautiful satin material. Not only that, but you can't beat it for a durable weekend bag that inevitably is going to wind up in your cart at Walgreen's or Costco. Ah yes, the glamorous life.

This amazing bag comes in a rainbow of colors, although some have since left the outlets and are popping up on eBay. I've added grey patent and copper to my collection.

Currently, these bags are at the outlets for $279 + 30% off, and if you are lucky enough to find an extra 20% off coupon you're walking away for $156 for each bag. Now that, my friend, is value.

Fantasy meets reality with a good ending

I can see how this is Marc Jacobs' answer to the Louis Vuitton fantasy line a few years ago. However, inasmuch as it's not completely original, the forest animals are adorable. This bag is pretty difficult to find, I snagged the last one at Saks here in San Francisco.

Happy Smiley Suede Shoes

These Tory Burch ballet flats are a proverbial ray of sunshine among all the rocker chic wear. They provide a hint of the unexpected and happy. In fact, even on a Monday I cannot stop thinking about them and how nice and bright they would look on my feet. I can always save the studded boots for another day. These cuties are available at Bloomingdale's.

Iconic Chanel boots

As soon as you look at these boots, you know they are Chanel with the tell-tale quilting. Chanel becoming hip is a relatively new phenomenon, as I can recall only old wealthy white ladies with gloves used to wear it. Outfits consisted of tweed suits, a proper hat and matching gloves. Either I am getting closer to that older lady milestone myself, or Chanel is appealing to a broader audience. I'd like to think the latter. I'm seeing many very young women wearing Chanel lately, although sometimes authenticity can be in question. This boot also comes in a shorter bootie style, but either way you can't lose. Find these boots at department stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.

Classic or just old looking?

Decisions, decisions. I think I kind of fancy it. Available at stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. By Prada.

Love for Loubistuds

It's pretty obvious that I have an affinity for all things studded. Now if only I could fit my life in this adorable studded clutch. Go look at Foot Candy.

Potholder kit + Balenciaga = this bag!

Balenciaga is usually a brand that hits the nail on the head. They use beautiful leathers and their colors like apple green are like no other. This is the only time I looked twice and was unsure of what they had done. Think back to your childhood, everyone made potholders:

So now here's the adult version of what you would do if you still wanted to make potholders. For us grownups, Balenciaga's version of a potholder, available at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus stores.

Cute weekend shoes are always a good thing

It's hard for me to get out of the "wearing of tennis shoes all weekend" rut. But these are a cute alternative by Lucky. Available at Macy's.

Don't take orders from anyone

Two thumbs up for this military jacket. Almost all cotton with a touch of spandex = a jacket that breathes and fits beautifully. I was a little unsure until I put it on. It fit like a glove. This fab little jacket is available at Macy's.

On board with the matte nail polish trend?

I've heard many people rave about Zoya nail polishes. And matte polish seems to be the in thing this year, so I went for it and bought a few bottles. Although the colors are great and the matte look is different, you are instructed to not wear a base coat nor top coat. This might work for some people, but for me it meant that my polish started chipping after less than 24 hours. So this is a great look for me for a night out, but not more than that. It's the one-night-stand nail color.

Pepe Le Pew has left the building

Everyone is raising a stink about this Fendi bag. Not because it's a bag with fur, but because that fur is none other than skunk. Our poor skunks, they get a bad rap because they actually have a good way to defend themselves from predators. When I was a kid I met someone with a pet skunk, and he was a cute little thing, and his skunker mechanism was somehow removed. So I don't think this bag is that bad. Do people think if they buy it, it will smell bad? Check it out for yourself at Saks.

Yet another great pair of boots

As much as I would love to wear stilettos all the time, my feet will not even think of it. Recently all the heels I've been seeing have been stilettos, so when I see anything with a remotely more stable heel, I can't help but notice. These boots are gorgeous, although not very budget friendly, so I will try to get them on sale before they sell out completely! Available at Bergdorf Goodman.

Lots of Mongolian lamb fur around

The pictures of this sweater are seriously nowhere nearly as cute as the sweater is in person. It is extremely flattering and cuts in snugly at the waist. The collar is removable. The arms allow you to wear a long sleeved top underneath. Definitely a great addition to the ol' fall and winter wardrobe! This beauty is available at Neiman Marcus and is by Nanette Lapore.

Ever feel like screaming -- I mean laughing?

I couldn't resist this Coach Parker Girl tote, it was on major clearance at Macy's. It's supposed to be a girl laughing, but she looks like she's screaming to me. Not that it's a bad thing, I think it's rather appropriate for how most of us feel on a daily basis when we're heading to the office.

Admit it, you had a pair of these at one time

I was addicted to Tretorn many years ago but forgot about them. I was browsing around last week and couldn't believe my eyes when I saw THE classic shoes, and they were very inexpensive. In a moment of unadulterated nostaligic joy I hit the "place order" button. Find them at 6pm.com.

Back to the fashion jungle I go

This faux fur look gives a nod to all those who prefer not to wear fur. After seeing it in person, it reminded me of what I'm sure was a favorite childhood stuffed animal. It's soft and luxurious. The potential problem with this print is that you risk looking like your grandmother's 1960s photos. Thankfully the cut has been updated and it is quite cute. I'm sure this will be one of my go-to coats this fall and winter. Available at Saks.

Don't want anyone to mess with you? Then buy these boots.

I have a weakness for rocker-chic, although I know just a little can be too much, and too much is way too much. But how could I resist these boots? They are one of the biggest fashion statements I've seen recently. Since I was unable to locate them in the US I'm having them shipped from the UK thanks to Brown's. They should be here next week! I'm also thrilled that I was able to get such a badass pair of boots that only have a two-inch heel. Christian Louboutin, of course.

Tattoo You

I'm sure this isn't what the Rolling Stones had in mind, but I realize I'm late to many parties. Case in point is Gucci's Tattoo line. It took me a while to warm up to it, because I heard that everyone would think I was carrying Ed Hardy. Truth be told, someone did ask me if the white bag was Ed Hardy. After he took a second look he was horrified at his faux pas.

After some sleuthing, I found out (yes!) that these bags would be marked down from their retail prices and I could find them either at the boutiques or one of my new favorite places, the Gucci Outlet. As a result I quickly created a collection that I've grown to really like.

It's after Labor Day so sadly I must think about retiring this set for winter. But the bag itself is interesting with the birds on the front, it's a nice original design and something that wasn't duplicated elsewhere.

 

Next up is your basic known to everyone Gucci "double G" logo, but it has a twist with the tattoo heart print on the front.

I would be remiss if I didn't find something that was a little out of the ordinary, so I went with the tan messenger bag and flats. The inside of the bag is the creamiest suede ever.

This last bag is missing its mate, because I was unable to score matching shoes. By the time I decided I liked this line, all the matching shoes were sold out. I will be scouring eBay as I can't find them at any retail stores or outlets.

One great red bag

It's very easy to gravitate toward black, brown and grey handbags. At least for me. Several weeks ago I was in a Coach Outlet (aka Factory Store) and I stumbled across a bag that is not a new style, but caught my eye for the first time. I'm very picky about my bags and generally I've thought that Coach produces bags that aren't quite as sophisticated as I would like. That, and I don't want to see my bag on a 13-year-old. When I first saw this bag in red at the Coach Outlet, I couldn't stop thinking about it. In fact I made a special trip back to the store (armed with my additional 20% off coupon) and sifted through at least eight bags that were on the floor to ensure I purchased the most perfect one. Some will scoff because it has silver (and therefore produced specifically for the Outlet) as opposed to brass (produced specifically for boutiques) hardware, but I like the silver better anyway. As far as Outlet quality, that remains to be seen, but time will tell. Here is the Coach Large Zoe in Red:

Boots, boots and more boots

I love boots and I always notice them on other people. Unfortunately, after multiple ankle injuries boots are not the easiest thing for me to wear. That and my calves are not built like a supermodel's. I usually shy away from knee boots for that reason alone. Last year I was able to get through the winter with the ever popular bootie, but this year I hit the jackpot and was able to score a pair of boots that not only fit my calves but are pretty darn good looking as well. Compliments of the Gucci outlet in Vacaville, they were a great price as an added bonus. Although I'd pay just about anything for boots that fit.

As if that weren't enough, I also in my state of boot-induced euphoria snagged a pair of booties, because one cannot live with knee boots alone.

 

 As an added bonus, both boots already have rubber soles which hopefully will assist me in avoiding wiping out on the sidewalk, which is one of my bad habits.

Fall and winter coats, anyone?

I haven't given too much thought to coats in the past. When I lived in the Midwest the most important thing was that the coat was warm. Also given the fact that my budget was extremely limited, I usually had two coats -- one for work and one for dressier occasions. I loved off-white coats, but I could never get my mother's voice out of my head that off-white coats got too dirty.

Fast forward many years, and suddenly I'm noticing fall and winter coats. I'm thinking about "upping the anté" so to speak and investing in coats that (hopefully) will last more than one season and fit the "timeless" category.

I've discovered after trying on many coats that designers often don't account for the fact that the wearer will be donning a heavy sweater underneath. Which is why I've fallen in love with fuller sleeves that are shorter (hence no hemming needed) and make me also want to invest in a gorgeous bright pair of leather gloves. This Ferragamo coat seems to fit the bill and should hit boutiques soon:

I also just spotted this Milly Ruffled Darling coat which is more budget friendly but looks promising:

 

I will keep searching, although it looks like my coat closet is in for an overhaul!