Fab Finds!

Francesca's Closet
From the website...Since opening its first store in 1999, Francesca's Collections has become one of the fastest-growing women's fashion retailers in the country. This privately held company, with locations in over 32 states, provides its shoppers with an eclectic, carefully chosen assortment of treasured items. Francesca's provides this unique shopping experience to our patrons by taking its inspiration from travelers who search the world for beautiful luxuries and gifts to bring to their friends and family.

Once again we find a one stop shop that delivers a treasure chest of options for every woman who visits. We fell in love with this tunic for only $38.00. With three functional pockets and a drawstring waist it's not only flattering but perfect for layering. And who says winter has to be boring? Not with this yummy jacket in ivory for $68.00. And what about this tee shirt for $24.00 that has 3 different looks to it! Our favorite color is definitely the navy. For those chilly days and evenings we love this wrap in rust for $34.00.

Not only does Francesca's Closet offer online shopping but they have boutiques in nearly every state! What are your favorite pieces from Francesca's Closet?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fall Fashion 2010 - Capes

From what we hear the cape is the single most important item to have in your closet this year. If you are investing in one trendy item this fall it appears the cape is the item. You are probably thinking what we're thinking - how to pick one and how to wear it!

Pick a cape that reflects your personality. Then look for one that suits your body type. A lightweight cape that hits thigh length is always flattering as it creates a slimming effect. A little heavier on the bottom - look for a shorter style that has structure and even a belt. Top heavy women should avoid any cape that has a flowing look to it opting for one that is more fitted. As with any item you put on your body the end result should be slimming and balanced. This goes for the cape too. Balance out the volume of the cape with slim bottoms like skinny jeans or how about that pencil skirt! Go easy with the accessories as the cape is just about all you need.

We love this cape from Chadwicks for only $69.99. It's gorgeous in gray tweed (another fall trend) especially paired with a pair of dark denim jeans or a black pencil skirt. Would you wear a cape?

Another great question

Fab Finds! received another great question from a reader today. We had to share and she did not mind. Her question..."I am in love with your Morgan Paris in Gray bag. It's all me but I am not sure what to wear it with. I am used to only carrying one basic black bag. How would you suggest I wear it, I like basics".

Ok we love this bag too;) The fabric has such personality and if you have not tried on a Morgan bag you should. She fits snuggly under your arm with room for a jacket. So what's a girl to do? Sounds like our reader is a fan of classic styles who does not venture too far with patterns or with styles. For her our suggestion is to pair the bag with neutrals and a touch of color either in your top or how about your shoes! We paired the bag with some great dark jeans, a multi use gray cardigan over a winter white cowl tee. Or for a touch of color how about a super stylish tee in a beautiful shade of purple. Pop on a great pair of heels and you are done! Did you notice all items can be worn with other items in your closet?

How would you wear Meredith Paris in Gray? Got a fashion question? Send them our way here!

Fashion question

Fab Finds! received a question from a reader that we thought needed to be answered and shared with everyone. The reader asked "I am a few years past 50, every store I go to has leggings, every catalog I browse through has leggings. I want some! Am I too old to wear them outside the house?".

NO! You are not too old to wear leggings in public. Why not be trendy and comfortable over 50? We do have a couple of tips though. Buy neutral colors, leave the bright colors, the metallic, and the leather ones for the younger girls. Look for leggings that fall below the widest part of your calf (you know the little bulge), and wear tunics and dresses that fall well below the rear being sure the bottom of the tunic or dress falls below the widest part of your hips. See a trend here;) Keep the look sleek, one key piece of jewelry or some fabulous ballet flats (the bit more daring ladies can wear the new booties). The look in the picture says it all!

Have a fashion question? Send them to Fab Finds! Maybe we can start a weekly dialog.

Morgan and Meredith

Check out new combinations!

Fab Finds!

Chadwicks
From the website...In 1983, Chadwicks became the first company to offer woman the innovative concept of a fashion catalog with the same high-quality apparel found in department stores at a fraction of the price. Now, over 25 years later, Chadwicks is still America’s favorite one-stop shopping destination for stylish women’s fashion at an unsurpassed value.

We fell in love with this dress from Chadwicks for $49.99 the moment we saw it. Effortless wrap dress with kimono style wrap. How can you resist a dress that is flattering, easy to wear, fashionable and in a yummy chocolate brown? What a great way to incorporate the trend we talked about recently - animal prints! Pair this dress with a fabulous pair of animal print shoes from DSW for $49.95. Finish the look with a stunning necklace also from Chadwicks for $24.99. Be sure to sign up for Chadwick emails and save 15% off your first order. How would you wear this dress?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fall Fashion 2010 - Pencil Skirts

Oh the pencil skirt. What's not to love? Classic style, perfect for work wear, can be worn to many functions and downright flattering. The pencil skirt was created in the late 1940's by French designer Christian Dior and quickly became popular.

So exactly what is a pencil skirt? It's a skirt that has a straight and narrow cut and falls at or just below the knee, some feature a little slit in the back. The beauty of the pencil skirt is that most women regardless of size can wear one. Follow these tips when purchasing one:

• Take your measurements. The skirt should fit smoothly over the hips and rear and the waistband should fall just below your natural one. Look for one that accents your shape and is not constricting.
• Check the length. For fuller legs a slightly longer skirt might be more flattering. 
• The skirt should be free of pockets, pleating, trims or belt loops. The look should be sleek.

How to wear:

• Keep the look simple and clean. Pair the skirt with simple tops that flatter the lines of the skirt. Keep jewelry to a minimum.
• For fuller figures pair it with a jacket or shirt that is slightly longer than the widest part of your body.
• Pair your skirt with a short jacket or cropped cardigan think Coco Chanel.
• For a trendy look pair your pencil skirt with a mismatched jacket.
• For a slightly more relaxed look pair the skirt with a slightly oversized cardigan, add a belt and a pair of simple flats.

The pencil skirt works well with other trendy items for fall - animal prints, pearls, tweeds. See just a few smart choices this fall and you are going to look spectacular!

 

Fab Finds!

Ann Taylor Loft
From the website...We are committed to meeting the evolving needs of women who want feminine, stylish and versatile fashions that offer great quality and value and that inspire women to look as beautiful as they feel.

What an absolutely beautiful find from Karen of Cleveland. This dress from Ann Taylor Loft is perfect for taking us right into fall and maybe even spring 2011. The cut is flattering for all shapes and in a soft jersey knit - comfortable and fashionable. Karen says she shops at the Loft frequently (she would not provide us figures). We love the Loft too! Great find Karen and thank you.

Karen paired the dress with a cotton/spandex legging for $38.00 from Ann Taylor and a pair of slouch platform boots from DSW for $79.95 (try coupon code 'fallshop' to save $10.00). Did you notice the boots are in camel? How would you wear the dress?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fall Fashion 2010 - Animal Prints

Animal prints are still in style! That's a good thing really it is. Fortunately there are many budget friendly options for the trendy girl to choose from. The trick is to pick a few key pieces and incorporate them into other outfits. Which is good because wearing head to toe animal print is hard to carry off. Think shoes, belts, bags, and cardigans, even a sexy skirt.

Let's start with the jeans and t's kind of girl. We're loving this heather gray cardigan from Banana Republic. Ok a bit pricey at $69.50 but think of the possibilities. With jeans and a tank top, for work paired with black pants or black pencil skirt - another fall trend. How about for lounging at home with a pair of yoga pants. Now the price becomes a bit more manageable considering how many times you will be wearing this! **note now through August 29 save 30% with coupon code PBHPV at Banana Republic.

A bit more daring? Check out this great outfit from Macy's - all from Jones New York and each piece only $39.99.

Not comfortable wearing so much animal print? Not a problem! Look for accessories to add a bit of wow to your look. Shoes, scarves to dress up any suit, or even a simple bracelet and of course you can always add an animal print bag!

With so many options the key is to find something that works for you and your body type, stays within your budget and makes you feel sexy. A couple of do's and dont's:

• Avoid head to toe animal print.
• Keep hair style sleek
• Stick to one animal print
• Keep the overall line of your outfit simple and sleek
• Pair your animal prints with neutrals, especially black, white, chocolate brown, and beige.

How would you wear animal prints? Share your thoughts!

Too good not to share

Newport News
Be sure to check out the sale at Newport News. Jeans starting from 2 for $29.00 with seven different fits! We're loving the stretch denim skinny scrunch jeans for $39.00. With coupon code 530 for 20% off it comes to $33.15. Not bad!

Fab Finds!

ModCloth
From the website...Founded by high school sweethearts, Eric Koger and Susan Gregg Koger, and built on a foundation of love for vintage and retro clothing, ModCloth.com is an online clothing, accessories, and decor retailer that aims to provide a fun and engaging shopping atmosphere for you,our customer.

The color camel sophisticated! This beautiful dress for $57.99 says I'm confident and know how to look great. Paired with these fabulous pumps for $39.94 and finish with a black obsidian necklace for $40.00. When you step into a room all eyes will be on you!

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fall Fashion 2010

Here in Cleveland there is a tiny hint in the air that fall is around the corner. While I am not ready to give up my flip flops or tanks quite yet, I do have to consider getting the fall closet ready. Some of the trends I am seeing for fall include the color camel, animal prints, pencil skirts, capes, tweeds and pearls. Lot's of pearls! Hmmm...the possibilities.

So what do these trends say? To me they say stability, classy chic with a bit of daring (I am sure it all has to do with the current economy). Over the next few days let's explore how we can incorporate some of these trends into our closet - of course without breaking the bank.
Let's start with the color camel. The experts say the color is flattering for all women. What do you think? The nice thing about camel - you can pair it with just about any other color - navy, black, red even white.

My personal favorite is camel and denim whether it be a camel sweater or even a pair of camel shoes. Camel can be blah so be careful when pairing it up with other items. Look for textures to pair it up with like tweed. Have you seen the cover of the new Spiegel catalog? Camel trench with an animal print blouse and wide belt. Perfect. Not so daring? Pick up a soft camel scarf and wear it with all your jackets. Now that's effortless.

Fab Finds!

Chico's
From the website...For 25 years, we’ve helped millions of women look as great as they feel. Our chic prints, artisan jackets, and wrinkle-free Travelers collection have built quite a following at our boutiques—but we hear it’s our combination of great style, one-of-a-kind details, and warm, personal service that has captured the hearts of women nationwide.

Is this jacket not gorgeous! What not to like? Tweed, fully lined, great color and on sale. Chico's has some great clothes but yes they are on the pricey side. But when they offer a sale it's pretty hard to resist. We love this jacket and it's cut and length is flattering on all women. Original price is $139.00 but with coupon code 4063 for 50% it comes down to $69.50! Coupon terms are 50% off any item with a $100 purchase through August 29.

Now how to wear? Let's pair this jacket with those jeans we found at Ruche.com and those shoes we found at metrostyle.com. See how easy it is to move pieces around in your closet and create new looks. What's your favorite jacket from Chico's?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Secrets of a fashion bargain hunter

Who doesn't like to save money? Making a purchase and knowing you got the most bang for your buck is a great feeling. Here are some insider tips and tricks that will help you do just that as we all get ready to transition our wardrobe over to fall.

• Use the internet! When making online purchases always do a simple search to see if one store is selling an item at a lower price. Check out Fat Wallet for deals on everything from clothes for the entire family to travel.
• Now that you have found the store that sells at the lowest price - check out Coupon Cabin or Retail Me Not and see if you can snag a coupon.
• Pay attention to the fabric content. It may be a great blouse at a great price but if it's made from a fabric that will not withstand multiple washes than it's not really a deal, is it?
• See something you love but not sure you love the price? Ask a sales associate if that is the best price they can offer you. Ask with a smile!
• Shop with an open mind. Don't buy something just because it's a great deal, buy something because it's a great deal for you.
• Shop clearance racks and bring a friend. They may spot something you would have never looked at.
• Consider a great piece even if it needs a small bit of tailoring. You probably know someone who would not mind helping you out with that hem.
• Know when to buy. Check out this great calendar!
• Remember go for the best quality you can afford. It's better to have a few great pieces than a closet full of nothing to wear.

The outfit, all from Metrostyle.com, came to a total of $68.97 and with a coupon code from Tjoos.com for 30% off any item made it $60.87 (plus shipping). Not bad - you can wear all the pieces with other items in your closet! Boyfriend tee $14.99; Boyfriend jean $26.99; Strappy sandals $26.99.

Check out our lookbook!

Check out our lookbook! What's your favorite look?

Fab Finds!

Shabby Apple
From the website...After years of not being able to find stylish dresses that covered enough skin to make you really feel comfortable (without wearing a tank top, cardigan or long slip), owners Emily and CK decided to do something about it.

They visited trade shows, marketplaces and designer studios only to discover the problem was not that department stores weren't buying the right dresses, but that designers weren't designing them.

Shabby Apple is proud to offer you fantastic dresses that allow you to look fabulous, without having to compromise anything else.

Now we know you don't want to think about any other season right now, however we all know what's coming sooner or later. That's why we love this t-shirt inspired dress for only $49.00. It's one of those pieces that will easily take you into fall and beyond. It's a matter of changing accessories! For now we love it with these oh so trendy sandals $39.95 and a must pair of earrings in a beautiful branch setting $17.00. For summer let's add our Veronica clutch in oriental floral for a pop of color!

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds!

Banana Republic
From the website...Delivering elevated design and luxurious fabrications at approachable prices, Banana Republic has been credited with helping make fashion more accessible. The brand offers elevated essentials and sophisticated seasonal collections of accessories, shoes, personal care products and intimate apparel. From work to casual occasions, Banana Republic offers covetable, uncomplicated style.

Todays Fab Finds! is courtesy of Jennifer M. of Solon, Oh. She loves the simple effortless dressing of tee shirts and jeans. But she insists on ones with style like this yummy tee for $39.50 from Banana Republic. We can't agree more! A modern approach to a carefree look. Jennifer suggests you wear this with a pair of boyfriend jeans or a pair of skinny dark denim jeggings. She said to pair this look with our Morgan in Paris Gray. We couldn't agree more! Thanks Jennifer for a great Fab Find!

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds!

Athleta
From the website...Athleta offers women's yoga clothing, swimwear, running clothing and athletic clothing for fitness, golf & tennis. Designed and tested by women athletes for women athletes. We also realize there is life after sport, so we fashion our apparel to take on your entire active lifestyle.

Even if you are not the active type Athleta will have something for you! We checked out the dresses (with this heat they are sometimes the only option) and found an amazing selection. We went right to the dresses with support page and found some stylish options. How about this dress in sangria or maybe seaspray? Dress it up or dress it down. Wear it to work and then out for the evening. Comfort and style for only $29.99 and now through August 8 you can save 20% on all sale items! See site for details. Let's pair this adorable dress with our Meredith in Geisha print - for those counting we now have three outfits for this little bag.

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds!

Ruche
We couldn't help ourselves...Ruche part 2...compliments of Jessica of Blue Orchid!

Plum cotton top $42.99 with intricate pleated floral embellishments, simply gorgeous. Paired with skinny black jeans $32.99. Slip on this classy and elegant bracelet $13.99 and now you have a second outfit to pair with our Meredith in Geisha print bag.

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Careful in those dressing rooms!

Ok we all know that you should try everything on before buying it. But be sure to view the return policy before purchasing! It appears more and more shops from department stores to smaller boutiques are using those familiar tactics to make us all look better - tilted mirrors and soft amber lighting. Check out this great article.

Take a friend shopping or look at yourself with a very open eye!

Style ebook now available

Finally! My new ebook "Reinvent Your Wardrobe - Shop Your Closet" is now available for download. 22 pages which will help you know what to keep and what to pitch. Includes lists of essential items for each season and a guide to analyzing current trends and how they relate to your individual style.

An excerpt...
Fashion designers design collections, complete wardrobes that work together to form individual outfits that have style. You should shop for pieces with that same mind set. Think in terms of a collection and how the individual pieces should complement each other.

It’s easy to update your wardrobe without spending too much money. Start with a basic wardrobe, consisting of key pieces, as they form the backbone of your wardrobe and make it work for you. For versatility and longevity, these items are best in neutral colors allowing for mixing and matching and easy accessorizing. Remember a neutral color will give you more...

Check it out here!

Fab Finds!

Ruche
From the website...
RUCHE is a modern women's boutique with a vintage touch. We try to find items that are new, in-style, trendy, yet still inspired by a vintage look. We handpick each product to give you the perfect selection of clothing, accessories and more.

Once again we find a fabulous one stop shop. Vintage yet trendy at an affordable price - Ruche has that free spirited look to it that us girls at Blue Orchid just love. Personality should always shine in your outfits and with Ruche you get an opportunity to look stylish yet let the 'you' shine. Just a couple of our favorites (too many to share in one post) include this heather gray skirt for $47.99 and this Victorian inspired blouse in peach for $32.99. Finish with these super cute gray suede pumps $84.99. Ok so what bag to pair this adorable outfit with? How about Meredith in our geisha print?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Meredith in new print

Check out Meredith in our natural ivy print. How to wear...how about a pair of denim capri's or shorts and an orange blouse. Very trendy in orange. Or try brown bottoms and a white or red top. You could even do a green top with white bottoms. A neutral color bag like this goes with just about everything! How would you wear her?

Fab Finds!

Modcloth
From the website...
Founded by high school sweethearts, Eric Koger and Susan Gregg Koger, and built on a foundation of love for vintage and retro clothing, ModCloth.com is an online clothing, accessories, and decor retailer that aims to provide a fun and engaging shopping atmosphere for you,our customer.

One stop shopping at it's best! This site is definitely being bookmarked. How can you go wrong in a simple sun dress for $49.99. Pair it with a super cute pair of sandals for $24.99 and a trendy necklace for $17.99. Hmmm, let's pair it once again with Morgan in sun blue.

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds!

Gap Stores
From the website...
We've kept what you love about our long and lean jeans--the easy fit and wider leg--while improving the construction for a more flattering fit. Smart design updates lift the seat, slim the hips, and lengthen the legs.

How can you beat a pair of white jeans for $24.99? There sure is plenty of season left to wear these and white is flattering for all women and goes with everything! Hurry though it does seem the inventory is quickly diminishing on many sizes.

Or maybe you like this chambray dress for $24.99? A blend of cotton and silk means comfort! So let's pair the white jeans with our Meredith in mint and throw on a tee in just about any color. And let's pair the dress with Morgan in sun blue. Very cute!

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds! Call for Submissions!

Now accepting submissions for our our Fab Finds! feature.

How it Works:
Find a great website or great outfit, even one piece of clothing that not only is trendy and fashionable but also affordable. Submit a link to the website or a picture of the outfit or article of clothing along with price and where to find. You will receive one entry for every submission (whether or not it is used on the blog) into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from the Blue Orchid website. One winner will be drawn at random and announced at the end of the month.

To Submit:
Email your finds to fabfinds@blueorchidhandbags.com be sure to include information on where to find along with price. If your fab find is used you will receive credit on our blog (be sure to include your blog or website if applicable). Submit often! Contact us with any questions. Thanks!

Fab Finds!

15DollarStore.com
From the website...
The 15 Dollar Store is in the business of providing fashion conscious Juniors the highest quality, in-season clothing at extremely reasonable prices.

That's right everything is $15.00! Ok there are no returns allowed but for approximately $20.00 you can get a great blouse. Doesn't work for you? Hand it over to a friend. We love this Heart Soul satin and jersey tank. It features a bold, abstract print with a scoop neckline. The stretch jersey bodice drops to banded waist (flattering;). Top it over a pair of white pants/capri's, add a pair of drop earrings. Perfect with our Meredith in giraffe! Have you purchased anything from this store? If so share your experience.

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

Fab Finds!

eShakti
From the website...
At eShakti, a woman can shop for exactly what she wants - no compromise, no premium to pay. She can ask for the fabric, color, body, styling and sizing that she likes. Never again will a woman have to hear that her size is not available.

What a great find! A clothing store where you can order what you want in the size you want with a no hassle, money-back guarantee on sales returns. Yes you can really customize the clothes including bra cup size, length, neckline shape and even sleeve type. And the best part - really cute clothes. Our favorite is this trapunto trim top in red ($39.95). Wear it over a pair of white capri's or dark denim jeans. Perfect with our Meredith bag in cherry blossom. Take some time to look around. What is your favorite?

Click here to submit a Fab Find! and be entered into our monthly drawing to win something fabulous from our website!

What a great way to start the week

Received this email yesterday - can't think of a better way to start the week! Linda Myers of Willoughby Hills, Ohio writes...

Received my blue poppy bag and it is lovely...hopefully i will get as many compliments from this bag as my previous purchase. I can't tell you how many people have stopped me and asked me where i got my beautiful summer bag and I always tell them. Thanks so much for your unique line.

Thanks Linda for the smile on my face!

New store!

Blue Orchid Handbags are now available at Gestures in Rocky River, Ohio. I am so excited to be a part of the store. I dropped off the bags last week and spent some time wandering around and I can honestly tell you it is one of the best laid out stores I have seen. It has a great ambiance and a wonderful selection of great local artists. Make an effort to stop in and check it out. Tell Valerie and Chris I sent you!

Coming soon...OOAK bags! What does that mean? They are bags which are produced in very limited numbers. It maybe one bag or three but not anymore. Over the years I have collected various fabrics simply because they caught my eye. Now it's time to use some of those fabrics and make some one of a kind bags. Look for a separate area on the website and updates in our newsletter.

A small set back

A couple of days ago I managed to cut my finger requiring 12 stitches. The pain has subsided but not the annoyance. I am so irritated with myself - but as everyone tells me things happen and that's all there is to it! I will tell you it has not stopped me but it has slowed me down. I bring this up because of a comment a customer made to me in reply to my telling her her order is a day or so behind schedule. She so graciously said not a problem but it was her comment that the bag was her indulgence for herself that made me smile. First I am so honored that she allowed one of my bags to be her indulgence and second it made me think about what I do when I want to indulge myself.

My indulgence depends on the weather. In the warm months I love to play in my garden. Trimming, dead heading, watering whatever needs to be done and more. In the winter I love to take a day off and watch tv or read a book and simply do nothing. As for a material indulgence I would say it has to be a beautiful pair of shoes that I simply don't need! Hmmm maybe it's time;)

How do you indulge yourself? Please share.

What a storm

What a storm yesterday afternoon. The day was oppressively hot and the air was so thick it probably was inevitable. We met the storm on the freeway of all places! Our son had called with news that the patio table and chairs were all over the backyard and he wasn't sure if anything broke (minor damage thankfully). Husband and I headed back home and wow the rain and wind was incredible. The amount of water on the road was amazing and downright scary. Thankfully we saw no accidents.

Promised a peak into my studio...some of my fabrics (I really mean some;)


And my business partner!

Blogging???

I hate to admit it but I am a terrible blogger. I have so much to say (go ahead verify it with my husband;)I just put it off and then realize it's been weeks - ok months since I updated everyone. Times are a changing! My goal is to blog on a weekly basis at first and then hopefully move up to 2x a week. We're taking it slow can you tell???

I have studio news to share, fashion finds to share, other great artists to share. So I figure let's share. What does that mean for you? Lot's of fresh style news and a peak into my little studio. And I want you to share too. Have a great find to share or have a style question send them my way. We'll do this together.

Current news...our 3 day sale has been extended through June 25 - take 40% off any purchase, enter 'summer40' during checkout. We had some technical difficulties and we do apologize for that. Happy Shopping!

Talk soon:)

What a gorgeous day

I am frantically getting ready for our upcoming trade show next week but did take a few moments to enjoy this absolutely beautiful day. I hope you stole a few moments to enjoy it as well. I love the simple way of dressing on days like this, capri's and a tank top and don't forget the sandals or flip - flops (another absolute favorite). Oh yeah and don't forget that summery handbag;)

Speaking of bags I am happy to say all our handbags are now interfaced with a product made from recycled post consumer plastic. Earth friendly! Starting to get some new fabric in that can take you through summer and into fall (but who wants to even think about fall???).

Time does fly

Wow I just realized it's May! Not that the weather was any indicator. Time fly's by so quickly I find it scary sometimes. I know many of you have been wondering how I am and I am doing well. For those who don't know I was in a car accident last week, rear - ended while I sat waiting for the light to turn green. I am in physical therapy and have been told that yes I will recover! It may take some time and effort on my part but it will happen. Now comes the hard part...trying to squeeze pt in my busy little day! Ah well you do what you need to do.

I did wake this morning to see an article on us at Ohio Fashionista. Check it out! What a nice way to start the day:) Thank you Ohio Fashionista!

What a very busy day

The Groupon discount became effective today and wow what a day! First a huge thank you to everyone who purchased a bag today. To those of you who were looking to purchase a particular bag and found it to be out of stock don't worry...more fabric is on the way. What I can reorder will definitely be reordered and what cannot will be replaced with more fabulous fabric. Visit often, become a fan on Facebook and of course sign up for our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest. Email with questions!

To those who have purchased a bag please allow a few days for us to create your bag and get it in the mail.

Now back to work...

Sneak peak of photo shoot

Just got back photo's from our photo shoot with Cleveland photographer Lindsey Beckwith. Take a look, let us know what you think!

Join the fun over at Groupon

Today is the day to join in on our offer over at Groupon. Scoop up your coupon before it is too late. You can use it today or save it for another day (expiration 10/10). So many people logging in to my site today may cause a bit of a problem for you but be patient please I am working with the site server to alleviate any issues.

What's in the works...a crossover style bag (named Lindsey) so you can shop with ease and safety. Look for her in a couple of weeks. An ebook will soon be available on the site too. It's titled "Reinvent your wardrobe - shop your closet". New floral pins and of course new fabrics are in the works as well.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Happy and sad all in one day

The happy...Yesterday I had a photo shoot for my bags with the super talented Lindsey Beckwith of Lindsey Beckwith Photography. I cannot tell you how much fun it was and how creative Lindsey was with the bags and the models. Pic's were taken both inside the studio and outside in the cold and slightly snowy weather. The models Jessica and Kara were beautiful and did not complain once about being outside without a jacket. I cannot wait for the final product as I know it will be amazing.

The sad...decided to spend the evening catching up on emails, blogs, and maybe pay some bills. Figured I would pay the bills first and get that horrible task out of the way. To my surprise the bank balance was quite a bit lower than it had been the day before. Turns out someone stole my husbands debit card number and went shopping! Quite a bit of shopping! Frantic I called the number on the back of my card and put those debit cards to rest. Unfortunately the damage was done. I was a wreck. Now I am mad. The bank is working on this with us and we are not liable for any charges thank goodness. But I will tell you the bank wants their money back and they are serious about tracking these people down. I hope they find them. I work really hard for my money...let me pay my bills please!

Thank you Cleveland Magazine

Grab the February issue of Cleveland Magazine. On page 16 you will see a story on me and my designs! How exciting is that! The entire experience was amazing from the interview to the photo shoot. I think the article turned out great and a huge thank you to Cleveland Magazine. Brittany - well done!

New show scheduled - the infamous BazBiz is having a Valentine Show February 12 - 13. We'll be there! Stay tuned here and on my website for the knitty gritty.

Is this not gorgeous?!?

Ok I admit it, I have been spending the morning shopping the internet. I am having one of those days where I am sick of it being January and with the sun shining this morning, I desperately want it to be spring. A few stops at my favorite stores and then I found this beautiful outfit at Anthropologie. Is it not gorgeous??? I love the sophisticated look of a tonal outfit. What a great look to ease into spring with.



The fine folks at Anthropologie have even included a shopping list so you can buy the complete outfit. Now hang on...the entire outfit will take you back $872.95. Ok maybe one or two of the pieces (maybe 3)! What do you think of tonal outfits?

Let it be Spring!!!

I got a bit spoiled by the near 50 degree weather we had here last weekend. Got me in the mood to debut new Spring bags. Check out Morgan - sleek and sophisticated and in new yummy fabrics perfect for Spring. And as promised evening bags are starting to make an appearance. We begin with Ava, a framed bag perfect for evenings out.

For those of you who were planning on seeing the girls of Blue Orchid at the March show Artfully in Bloom, we have a bit of bad news. The show is being rescheduled for Fall. Don't fret, as new shows are confirmed for Spring we will let you know.

Stay warm...

What Not To Wear back on the air!

Thank goodness my weekly dose of Stacy & Clinton is back! TLC's What Not To Wear is back on tonight. I have been in definite withdrawal for quite some time now. It looks like another exciting season. They have a quiz you can take to see if you have been paying attention. I have been! Check it out here.

This weekend The Eclectic Mixx is having a grand reopening at 14417 Detroit, Lakewood, Oh. Stop in and tell Bill I sent you;)

Will it ever stop snowing???

Happy New Year

Wow 2010 it's hard to believe isn't it?! I hope this new year brings happiness, success, and good health to all. As for resolutions...not for me. Why do we only hear about them in January? Why not make resolutions all throughout the year? When you realize something is not working for you or you are not happy with how you are acting, why not make a resolution right then and there to change! I think that would make for quite a successful and happy 2010.

What's in store for the new year here??? Lots! How about a line of evening bags, wine totes (which were a hit at the shows) and a couple of surprises.

What are your plans for the new year? Do you have any resolutions? If so how do you plan on keeping them? Let me know!

Sneak peak...