Louis Vuitton Mon Monogram Speedy 35 Bandouliere!

There comes a time in every woman's life where she needs to graduate to a serious handbag.
All of a sudden, it came upon me.  The bag bug. I don't think I have ever really had it before.
But this past December, I wanted a Louis Vuitton or Chanel handbag. Walking around town, shopping and dining, I saw gorgeous LV bags and knew I needed one too. To my eye, the LV bag polishes your look and finishes any outfit.  Now I had to decide if I was willing to take the plunge price-wise.  Until this point, I had never even considered spending more than around $350 on a bag (either retail or on-sale).  I am rough on bags, and have always been more of a clothes-girl.  However, after buying so many nice bags, I had to admit that I was not in love with any of them.  Neither visually, for their function, or any sentimental reason.  So I thought, what bag would finally make me happy? LV or Chanel.  My mother carried LV when I was young.  She had a Speedy 25 and the Noe. The monogram of the LV bag had always fascinated me.  Remembering back in time, she was always getting compliments and questions about her bag.  My mom had bought her first LV at I. Magnin back in 1990.  Then, my father bought her all the accessories....the wallet, cosmetic cases, checkbook holder, and keychain pouch.  Now that I am older, I appreciate how much that all cost! Eventually, my mom gave up on her Louis...she just was like, "it's just Louis Vuitton"...and gave them all away!!
So I adopted the same attitude for years...but times have changed. 

I told my mom I wanted a "status" bag and she helped me look for one.  We initially thought about getting a "previously loved" Louis.  I looked at so many bags, and found that the prices for pre-owned LV were pretty high.  Also, I couldn't find one that was in good enough condition.  The ones that were in nice condition where priced almost the same as retail! I thought that was ridiculous so I started looking at the LV website.  I really couldn't decide which bag to get, but knew I needed a zipper bag.  My mother suggested that I just get the classic Speedy.  In search of a Speedy, I stumbled upon a high-end resale shop in my town.  The lovely shopkeeper had a LV Delightful PM for $900 and a Jumbo Chanel Classic Flap bag in Black leather for a whopping $3800!! The retail on the Chanel is now $6000 Chanel Large Flap Bag.  I was floored by the price of the Chanel. Although it is a beautiful and classic bag, I was surprised at how little you can actually fit in that bag.  I carry a lot of stuff, and there is no way I could carry that bag on any regular basis.  It was in great condition, but I don't make enough money to justify that kind of purchase for something I would barely use.  So, Chanel was out, LV was in.

On the LV website, louisvuitton.com I found the Speedy!  Although I liked it, I wasn't completely in love until I saw the Mon Monogram Personalization option!! Also, I decided I definitely needed the Bandouliere option!! I need a shoulder strap of some kind because my bag gets heavy. There.  I was set on the SpeedyB Mon Monogram. On the site, you can play with personalization options, choosing colors, stripes, and initials.  I chose the side stripes in the colors Noir and Bordeaux with a Bordeaux interior. For my initials, I chose Bordeaux with Noir shadowing and "With Dots".  Here is what my future bag will look like:

I think the Bordeaux and Noir option looks extremely chic and versatile.  I chose to have some black because I am always wearing black as an attorney. My thought was keep it subtle but interesting enough to stand out from other Speedys.  Although I could have ordered this online http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/women/personalization, I chose to got to the LV store in Fashion Valley, San Diego.  After all, this was a big purchase.  The saleswoman Laura helped me pick the right size Speedy.  When I walked in the store I told her I wanted the SpeedyB 40.  She told me that she thought it was too big for me as an everyday bag and more akin to a travel duffel. I tried on the 40 anyway.  It looked ok, but not as "cute" as I would have liked.  She personally had the Speedy 30. I tried the Speedy 30 and it was nice, but a little small for me.  Especially, I thought the opening was too small. I ended up ordering the SpeedyB 35!! I ordered it two weeks ago. It is reportedly going to take about 8 weeks...which seems like forever. It is custom made just for you in Paris, France! It is good to know that I will have the coveted "Made in France" bag.  I am excited and can't wait to get it!!  Will post pics and review the bag when it arrives.  The price for the SpeedyB 35 is around $1400. With personalization "Mon Monogram" it is up to around $1800 + tax! So around $1900 total.

Milly for Kohl's

Who hasn't dreamed of spending a summer on the glorious Isle of Carpi?
The Blue Gotto, the Piazzetta, Monte Solaro, the amazing shopping! It is paradise on earth, I imagine.  Although I have not been there yet, you can shop for the Capri resort look now with Milly for Kohl's Milly for Design Nation-Kohl's  Launched in April, there is still time to get to your local Kohl's store or look online.  Designed by it-girl celebrity designer Michelle Smith of Milly (http://www.milly.com/), the Kohl's collection reflects a care-free, pithy, and fun vacation vibe.  I chose two outfits and have already worn them on weekends for picnics, shopping and singing lessons.  I really love the maxi skirts! They are so comfortable and breezy.  Definitely a summer must-have.  Get it before it's gone!

Capri or Bust!! Milly for Kohl's top, Necklace by RFM, Shorts my MissMe, shoes by Madewell. Painting by Sarah Felong

Milly for Kohl's top, Necklace by RFM, Shorts by MissMe, Shoes by Madewell, Bag by Joy & Iman

Top by Milly for Kohl's, Jewelry by RFM and Amedeo NYC, bag by Joy & Iman

T-shirt and Maxi skirt my Milly for Kohl's

Capri Kisses from Romeo the Doberman.  T-shirt and Maxi skirt by Milly for Kohl's

T-shirt and Maxi Skirt by Milly for Kohl's

You Me Capri!! 

Necklace by RFM, Cameeo macrame bracelets by Amedeo NYC

My big baby boy always in the photo! 

Lilly Pulitzer for Target: The Aftermath

We admit.  As fashionistas, we did not make our best attempt to get to Lilly Pulitzer for Target. Lilly Pulitzer for Target It is sad to say, but by the time we got to Target on Apr. 20th, almost everything was gone! As you all know by now, the Lilly Pulitzer for Target sold out on the first day: Apr. 19th.  Reports indicate that some stores sold out the collection in less than an hour.  Massive lines of eager shoppers formed long before the Target opened.  Women every were came out in droves to buy.  We didn't expect this turn out...and lost out on the hype and seeing the entire collection in person.  However, we did manage to pick up some great signature pieces: A fabulous scarf and headband.  What was you experience with Lilly Pulitzer for Target? It is a beautiful and sunny assortment of summer must-haves.  Too bad it is so short-lived.  Pictures below show a casual look.  We paired the Lilly pieces with a t-shirt from L'AMOUR by Nanette Lepore and our own jewelry designs.  The scarf could definitely be worn with your business suit.  It is gorgeous and perfect for keeping you warm when the air conditioner is blasting.

Here are the picture from Target the day after the launch.  Is was cleaned out, except for some beauty items and accessories.  Almost all of the tableware and glasses were purchased and there were only two dresses left in the entire store!

Coachella Style

Coachella starts in a couple of days.  Hopefully you have passes...or can come up with a way to get them.  One thing is for sure: you need to have your festival style in order.  What use is going to Coachella if you are not looking fabulous? There is none! IF your wardrobe is devoid of anything remotely cool and festival appropriate, you can head to your local H & M and get the "official" Coachella collection: http://www.hm.com/us/hm-loves-coachella.  This is Coachella-approved...so if your wear anything from this, you will generally fit in.  Also, the price point won't drain your wallet.
Here are some of the looks from H & M:

For "High-End" Coachella looks, I really j'adore this poncho from Emillio Pucci:

 And this fabulous hippy dress from Roberto Cavalli:

Think Hippy more than Hipster.  Have more fun with crochet, fringe, color, and prints!

Make sure you get a faux tan as well.   If you are like most lady lawyers, you have been sitting inside an office for far too long.  I love St. Tropez: https://www.sttropeztan.com/

Also, do NOT forget your sunscreen! It is super sunny and hot at Coachella.  You do not want to burn or get sun damage.  Opt for a natural, chemical-free sunscreen using zinc and titanium dioxide.
http://www.laroche-posay.us/anthelios-50-mineral-883140000907.html.  LaRoche-Posay makes amazing mineral sunscreens.   I can usually find them at CVS.

Make sure you have cool sunglasses.  Please don't forget them.  When in doubt, bring aviators.  They are always perceived as fashionable and sexy...not quirky.

Kendall Jenner wore them last year.  So do you need any further proof? :)

Most of all, have fun with your look.  This festival gives you an opportunity to wear things you could never wear to work.  Shortest shorts, flowers in your hair, psychedelic hippy dresses, and crochet ponchos.

Here is the line-up: https://www.facebook.com/coachella?fref=ts

Courthouse Steps

Do you love the courthouse so much that you are inspired to design a quilt pattern in its honor?
It has already been done!  The quilt design "Courthouse Steps" has been around since the 1850s.  This charming design is a variation on the classic "Log Cabin" quilt.  The Log Cabin quilt represents the hearth and home and the Courthouse Steps quilt represents country and democracy.  In early America, the local courthouse held a pivotal role in everyday life.  There the laws were written, deeds to property were kept, and records of births and marriages were generated.  The Courthouse Steps has remained a popular pattern since its creation.  So lady lawyers...get our your sewing machines and put one together.  If you can pass the bar exam, you can do this!

Here is a beautiful examples of the Courthouse Steps quilt:

As you can see, the pattern depicts steps leading up to a central focal point.

Quilt-in-A-Day, an outstanding quilt store in San Marcos, CA, has a book entitled "Courthouse Steps Quilt", written by Judy Knoechel.  It can be purchased at the store or online: http://www.quiltinaday.com/shoponline/book/638

Additionally, the owner and headmistress of Quilt-in-a-Day, Eleanor Burns, has created a sparkling variation of the Courthouse Steps:

Look at this great "Lady Justice" fabric by Benartex.  I found this on Ebay.

 

Pre-Spring Outfits and Projects

As we wait for the dawn of spring and prepare for the year ahead, our thoughts turn to inspiring fashion and weekend projects.  Remember all those New Year's Resolutions? Time to get things into action! Take up a new hobby.  We have rediscovered quilting and knitting.  One fabric designer we adore is UK-based Kaffe Fassett http://www.kaffefassett.com/Home.html.  His fabrics and patterns transform quilting.  With a stunning palette and contemporary aesthetic, Kaffe is a superstar in the quilting world.  He has written multiple books and teaches quilting classes worldwide.  Pictured below is a quilt we made from his book, "Caravan Quilts".

Kaffe Fasset Quilt and Fabrics.  Sweatshirts by LOGO

Another great way to channel your crafty side is to knit! Debbie Bliss has great how-to books.
Check out this amazing entrelac cashmere throw.

Cashmere E'ntrelac Throw 

Crafting can also help you gain a new perspective on your wardrobe.  Examine the beautiful combinations in your quilting fabric.  Sometimes if you look closely you can discover color combinations that before seemed impossible! Mix up your clothes, play with color and form.  All is new this year.  Remember, there are no rules in fashion and when it's right, it's right! Just have fun! One designer that embraces mixing and matching is Elle Magazine Fashion Editor, Lori Goldstein. See our other posts on LORI:
http://ladylawyerslifestyle.blogspot.com/2014/05/office-style-with-lori-goldstein.html
Update your pre-Spring wardrobe with soft, flowing pieces that can transition all the way into fall.
We love the gorgeous colors and sophisticated silhouettes from LOGO by Lori Goldstein, available on QVC.com.  Embrace the new and unique.  Dye your hair, try a new hobby, watch the sunset! Get out of the Winter dull-drums and see Spring around the corner :)

Jacket by LOGO by Lori Golstein, Blouse by James Perse, Jewelry by Heidi Daus, Bag by Nahuli Ollin Candy Wrapper Bags, Shoes by Madewell, Jeans by Kardashian Kollection, Belt by Ralph Lauren.

Paper Doll Quilt! 

Pink Hair Don't Care! Color and Highlights by Moi using ION at Sally's Beauty Supply.