Making The Most Of Your Jewelry Collection

Do you ever feel like your outfit just isn't complete? Your colors all match, and your shoes are divine. However, something is just not there. Choosing a piece of jewelry to wear with clothes could be the answer. A necklace or a pair of earrings will bring that classy finish you need.

You should ensure the quality of the pieces of costume jewelry that you purchase for your collection. A piece that isn't in very good condition won't be worth it, and since you may be thinking of an expensive item as an investment, it's important to watch for wear and tear. A piece that is free of any defects or wear not only looks better, but is also a better investment.

This electric charge is a dust and dirt magnet. Tourmaline needs to be cleaned more frequently than other gems because it attracts more grime.

When choosing jewelry to wear with your outfit, think about the purpose you want the jewelry to serve. Is it your outfit or your jewelry that is the focal point? You have to make this decision.

Surprise the ones you love with buying them a thoughtful piece of jewelery. Almost all women love to receive jewelry. You will enjoy looking at her eyes sparkle with joy when she opens her box.

Give the jewelry a little test drive and wear it for a little bit to see if it is comfortable and lays right. This can also help you see whether the piece is durable enough to last.

You may have necklaces that you wore as a child that you'd still like to use. They'll look more mature and less dated if you layer them with newer and larger pieces. The addition of a small pendant will add a touch of personality to everyday modern pieces.

When you go shopping for sterling silver jewelry pieces, take with you a magnet and a monocle. Metals that aren't precious will connect to the magnet, signaling that it is fake. Sterling silver should always bear a stamp that says Sterling, Ster. or .925. If the piece that you are looking at is not hallmarked, this is usually the sign that it is a fake.

When you go swimming, take your jewelry off first. Swimming pools contain chlorine, which can age many types of jewelry prematurely. The salt in seawater will result in the same effect. It is advisable to remove all jewelry prior to participating in any water sports to protect and extend the life of your jewelry.

Now that you have read this, you will know how to purchase all types of jewelry wisely. Not only are you going to save yourself some time, but you also are going to save quite a few dollars by following the tips and tricks in this article.

Replica Hermes Bracelet

The Metallic Michael Kors Zuma Satchel

Oh my gosh! I can’t believe I’m heading back to school already! Fall is literally just around the corner, whether I’m ready for it or not. Now I’ve never been much of a fan of the Fall season. I mean, who wants to rake up all those leaves in the front yard? But I suppose there is something good that comes from Fall — Metallics! In fact, a great metallic handbag is my accessory of choice for the Fall season. I especially love the bronze shades! They are so pretty and they go with just about everything in my wardrobe!And speaking of metallics, I found this lovely metallic bag from Michael Kors while browsing on their official website. Introducing the Michael Kors Zuma Satchel. This bag is so unique and fun, I absolutely love the horizontal pleats and knot detail. It’s funny because this bag almost reminds me of a Kooba bag, only with a slightly higher price tag. I think what I like most about this bag, however, is that it is both neutral and shimmery at the same time. It would be perfect for day or for night, whatever the occasion may be! But just in case you’re not in the mood for a metallic handbag, the Michael Kors Zuma Satchel is available in Black as well!The Michael Kors Zuma Satchel measures 14.5″ x 11″ x 5.5″ and it retails for $995. Find it in Brass, Gunmetal, or Black at Michael Kors! also available at Bloomingdales.The Chat: The Zuma!

Miranda Kerr Style: Prada Glace Zip Bowler

Here’s proof that past season handbags still have potential to rock your wardrobe. It’s Miranda Kerr, one of my favorite Victoria’s Secret models enjoying a day out in New York City. Other than her casual yet feminine look and her extra perfect face, I noticed a past season Prada hanging off the crook of her arm, it’s the Glace Zip Bowler. It’s such an adorable Prada bag, there’s no need to stash it away in your closet just because it made its debut a couple of years ago. It appears to be a pretty comfortable satchel with its luscious Italian calf leather and oversized rolled top handles. I never imagined a handbag with mixed hardware would look so good, just take a look at how this satchel sports chunky gold hardware with silver features too. Notice the hefty silver plaque found right up front? I like how it’s adds character and the perfect amount of bling to the satchel, plus, the mirror-like plate can serve for quick touch-ups as well!At the moment obtaining this beauty might become a bit of a challenge, but if you seek Miranda Kerr’s Prada don’t give up, as you can shop previous Prada accessories through: Bluefly or Authentic Prada on eBay

Lindsay Lohan Style: Balenciaga First Bag

It’s Miss Lindsay Lohan, spotted by the pap in good ole’ Hollywood. Dressed fairly safe in black tank and white denims, LiLo seemed to be in no need of attention, or was she? Was Lindsay cold or possibly hungry, maybe she purposely crossed her arms to share a glimpse of her lovely leather handbag she was sporting on the opposite end of the cameras view. If so I don’t blame her, I’d want to show off my soft feminine Balenciaga bag too! Hard core Balenciaga fans and some of us newbie’s refer to BBags by color and year, which helps in determining how smooshy and possibly rare the piece is. All I can conclude about Lindsay’s bag is that it looks like a First size; it’s a lovely shade of pink, and practically versatile with any color you wear since it appears to be nude-like. I’m a fan of this comfy looking everyday small tote, its perfect for quick outings or nights out.My search of Balenciaga on eBay led me to this 2005 Bubble Gum Pink First that looks fairly similar to Lindsay’s bags, that’s if I didn’t already solve it’s identity. If you’re loving this girlie Bal., you can find this authentic piece at: Authentic Balenciaga on eBayImage: SplashNews + eBay seller bunnie_earsThe Chat: Lindsay Lohan Loves Balenciaga!

Amanda Seyfried Style: Christian Louboutin Pliage Framed Clutch

Jennifer’s Body star, Amanda Seyfried, was spotted outside the film’s premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival the other night. And for this very special occasion, the young actress (who is probably better known for her role in Mama Mia!) chose to go super-glam.She paired a gorgeously glided Valentino dress with what appear to be a pair of black patent Christian Louboutin peep-toe pumps. The look was topped off with a dazzling pair of Cathy Waterman earrings. And her evening bag of choice? What better to go with her Christian Louboutin shoes than one of Christian Louboutin’s famous Framed Clutches?Her particular version looks to be black with silver hardware. I must say, the clutch looks simply stunning here with just enough light being reflected to give it a subtle sparkle. And, of course, the little Christian Louboutin shoes that make the clasp are absolutely adorable! Perfect for shoe and handbag enthusiasts alike!Find a clutch similar to Amanda’s, called the Christian Louboutin Pliage Framed Clutch, at Saks Fifth Avenue!Image: PeopleThe Chat: Seyfried + Louboutin!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Doodle Print

When I heard that Marc had produced a Doodle Print Tote for his Marc by Marc Jacobs line, two words immediately popped into my head: Dooney & Bourke. We all remember the Dooney & Bourke Doodle Print Collection, with its bright colors and childish-looking drawings. But when I finally saw the Marc by Marc Jacobs Doodle Print Tote in real life, I wasn’t as shocked as I thought I would be. Yes, the doodles are whimsical and childlike. However, I think what saves this tote from complete fashion disaster is that the doodles were done in simple black and white instead of every color of the rainbow. The little birds, rainbows, and bees are actually pretty cute. And the little worm is adorable! The doodles remind me of my textbooks from when I was in grade school. The teacher would have all the students bring a paper bag from home to make into a book cover. And, of course, mine would always be covered with lots and lots of drawings. I think this tote would be cute as a gym bag or even as a casual shopping tote. It is definitely something that the young and young-at-heart can both enjoy.The Marc by Marc Jacobs Doodle Print Tote is constructed of coated canvas and is available in either Black or White. It retails for $148. Find it at Shopbop.com.The Chat: Jacobs Doodle!

Jimmy Choo ‘Project PEP’ Glazed Canvas Tote

Jimmy Choo is known as the designer brand that makes women drool over beautiful shoes. Everytime I see a Jimmy Choo shoe my heart skips a beat. The shoes are gorgeous, but every now and then the designer brand has some beautiful looking handbags.When I came across the, Jimmy Choo “Pep” Glazed Canvas Tote I was surprised! When I think of Jimmy Choo, I think of a designer brand that is classy and sophisticated looking. To see that the “Pep” Glazed Tote was made by Jimmy Choo was appalling and shocking at the same time.I do not like anything about this bag. To me, this bag looks like an absolute mess. You got flags, jewels, lips, and even shoes featured on the bag. If you examine the bag, it really does look like magazine cut outs. The bag is all over the place, and I don’t understand the theme of it at all.I’m not sure who would actually carry this tote around. I suppose those who love edgy fashion might have an appreciation for this handbag. All I know is that, my wardrobe is edgy for the most part and I despise this bag. I could never see myself using this bag, but of course that is just my opinion. If you happen to love this bag, then rock it out because I know I never could.The Jimmy Choo “Pep” Glazed Canvas Tote can be purchased at Nordstrom for $995, which I think is ridiculous for this bag. The bag is not cute at all, and the price is way too high. I would think this bag would cost $400 at the most, but when you’re dealing with Jimmy Choo you can never expect a low price. Sorry Jimmy Choo, but this bag get an F in my book.See the Jimmy Choo “Pep” Glazed Canvas Tote at: Nordstromend note: Jimmy Choo will donate 25% of net sales from the Project PEP collection to the Simelela Rape Centre in South Africa.The Chat: project pep!

STARTS NOW: Linea Pelle Handbag & Belt Online Sample Sale

The flat jack messenger handbag by designer Gerard Darel is one of my current favorite picks for fall. The bag is amazing and has everything I love and look for in a bag. Spacious enough for all my junk, comfortable to wear, amazing detailing, etc and etc.Recently Emily Blunt has been spotted everywhere with this bag. (so lucky).The latest sighting pictured above. The perfect bag for travel!This “flat jack” is Blunt’s bag of choice because of it’s soft grey suede, studded adornments and versatility to be worn as both a messenger-style and shoulder bag.Gerard Darel Flat Jack Messenger retails for $595.00. Find @ shoprumor

Stop what you’re doing, because you’re not gonna want to miss out on this blowout event.Over at HauteLook they just opened the doors to their latest fabulous online sample sale featuring a fresh batch of handbags, belts and accessories by Linea Pelle.Up to 75% off retail! Where else are you going to find that? Nowhere. And did I mention you don’t even have to leave your computers side?No standing or waiting in long lines. Only fear is of your future bag you’re wanting, selling out before your very own eyes. Which is why you must get their asap!Visit HauteLook to gain access to this sale!

Tarte Shadows + Brush

Day 19 – starts now!Create a natural look using these long-wearing, richly pigmented mineral shadows. The satiny mineral shadows come in a stunning range of shimmery shades and can be used wet or dry and comes with a tarte smudger brush. Eah shadow is packages in the tarte signature lilac leather compact and, complete with mini-mirror for on the go application. Comes with shades: raspberry, Beret (shimmery raspberry), Bathtub Gin (shimmery champagne), Sweet Valley High (shimmery pale pink), Brown Derby (shimmery deep brown) and Peyton Place (shimmery khaki green).  Remember, this giveaway ends in less than a day..Continue Reading…BagBliss giveaways are so easy! All you have to do is enter your info below!This giveaway will end today, December 13th at 8:59 pm PST / 11:59 pm ESTAbout the event end note: We here at BagBliss and TheBagForum are thanking all of you, our dedicated readers for an amazing 5+ years. This holiday season we are throwing an extravagant 30 days of Giveaways Event, where you have a chance to score something from our stash of designer goodies.1 giveaway items per day for 30 days, starting November 25th and ending December 24th.The giveaways will be split up equally between BagBliss and TheBagForum.Follow me on Twitter for the latest alerts!winner: congratulations Lucy House of San Francisco!

Juicy Couture Daydreamer Velour Lap Top Sleeve

Even though they were always on the pricey side, I’ve always loved the Juicy Couture lap top sleeves. Anytime I find designer accessories that has to do with technology in some way, shape or form I usually fall in love. Some designer “technology” accessories I have eyed have included the: Ed Hardy and Juicy Couture flash drives; Marc Jacobs lap top sleeves; Coach mouse pad; and Louis Vuitton iPod cases.Some people may think it’s absurd to spend so much money on a designer accessory that simply “dresses” up any of your technology pieces. I on the other hand, think it’s amazing. Fashionista’s love designer purses, clothes, and shoes and to be able to get designer goods that make technology look more stylish is always a plus.Juicy Couture has always designed the cutest but yet prettiest lap top cases. I’ve never saw one that I would actually purchase, but I’ve always thought they were adorable. When I came across the “Daydreamer” Velour Lap Top sleeve I instantly thought about purchasing it. I’m about to buy a brand new lap top and what better way to celebrate my new gadget then with a flashy case for it.What caught my eye the most about the sleeve was the bow. For some reason, the bow stole the show for me. I could be wrong, but I don’t recall ever seeing a bow on a Juicy Couture lap top case. I thought the bow made the case look that much more adorable and stylish. It’s the perfect lap top sleeve for the ultimate fashion lover!The Juicy Couture “Daydreamer: Velour Lap Top Sleeve can be purchased at Nordstrom for $158. You spend so much money on a lap top that you might as well by a gorgeous case for it right? I’ve been searching for a lap top case for the past few days, and this one wins my vote!See the Juicy Couture “Daydreamer” Velour lap Top Sleeve at: NordstromThe Chat: daydreaming!

Accessory finds under $50 LeSportsac Botkier

With the start of a new decade is anyone seeking to replace some of their beloved everyday accessories for more current and newer styles? I personally am in search of a new cosmetic bag and I know just were to go if I want the luxurious designer piece, but sometimes cheap thrills find their way into your collection, especially when they retail for no more than $50. If you seek you shall find, and I spotted these cute name brand pieces carrying extra affordable price tags.The first that caught my eye and the most colorful from the batch goes to the laptop sleeve; it’s the Reverie by LeSportsac. The printed floral pattern in delightful colors stands apart from your typical solid colored common sleeves. Price tag for this pretty reads an affordable $38.Treat your makeup to a leather snake-embossed cosmetic pouch. Brushes and lip-glosses of all lengths will fit just right in this horizontal accessory. The Botkier Bowtie pouch arrives in peacock snake or the desert snake version and retails for $45.A large bag that’s noticeable, available in five different colors and is priced at only $28 goes to the Life, Nature, Love tote by FREECITY. Ideal for casual canvas days or for the Beach, and for as low as they go, you’ll feel the need to grab some extras to gift.…and finally, an oversized white (but not so boring) canvas clutch that arrives with extra pockets, zippers, chains and fringe. I like the grey branches print and of course the $50 price tag this Indah clutch carries.Discover these and more by LeSportsac, Botkier, FREECITY, and Indah by shopping online through: ShopbopThe Chat: accessory deal!

MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela Perforated Leather Hobo

Architecturally inspired, clean and modern lines are the design hallmarks of a Margiela handbag. While the primary line generally sells for $1,000 and up, this is a much more affordable choice for most of us. MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela is the brands diffusion line. This brand provides the Margiela style at a much lower price point. At $495, this bag makes a big statement for spring and summer!What caught my eye about the perforated Hobo is the sleek and modern triangular design of the bag. Clean and simple, it offers a lot of visual impact. I can see this with so many of today’s contemporary clothing designers. The imported, perforated leather is the second aspect of this bag that really catches your eye. It looks light and airy and fresh for summertime! An added benefit of the perforation is the overall light weight of this bag. Carrying it would be like having a cloud on your shoulder! The final simple detail is the wrapped leather at the handle. It finished and grounds the design of the bag. My only concern about the bag is whether the handle would stay clean. While there are products that can help protect it from getting dirty, it would be my primary concern. But, at that price, you could easily wear it a season and buy something new next year!The shoulder strap features a 10″ drop and the bag closes with a snap. Full-lined with an inside open pocket. The bag is an extra roomy 20″W x 12″H x 1″D. Throw in a swim suit and flip flops and you are ready for a quick jaunt to the pool!Find the MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela Perforated Leather Hobo at Saks Fifth Avenue.The Chat: MM6!

Rebecca Minkoff Cherish Studded Canvas Tote

Kim Kardashian looking gorgeous in Miami!Kim pictured above while out with her favorite Adriana Castro accessory, the Crocodile Nina Clutch.Dying to get your hands on her beautiful clutch.. there’s going to be a wait. The bag isn’t even out yet!This clutch is from the new Fall 2010 collection. Pre-order yours now . Don’t forget to check out Adriana Castro’s website for new arrivals or call 1.866.460.4484.image: people

It’s no secret that Rebecca Minkoff is one of my favorite handbag designers. There are several Rebecca Minkoff styles that have been holding special places in my heart for some time now. And I always enjoy checking out all the new designs season after season. But all of this seemed to fly out the window when I stumbled across the new Rebecca Minkoff Cherish Studded Canvas Tote. I mean, it’s not like this bag is completely horrid or anything. I am just a little bit disappointed, that’s all. The Rebecca Minkoff Cherish Studded Canvas Tote is made of white canvas and it is trimmed in black leather. The front of the bag is adorned with black, square-shaped patches and centered within each of these patches is a flattened, over-sized stud. To me, this just doesn’t seem like a Rebecca Minkoff bag. Maybe if this bag was leather? Or perhaps black with white patches instead? I am so up in the air about this one! But I suppose you could rock with bag with a pair of skinny black jeans and one of those new slouchy tees. And hey, it does have that cute birdie lining that I happen to love so much!Check out the Rebecca Minkoff Cherish Studded Canvas Tote at Bloomingdale’s! It measures approximately 20″ x 12″ x 3″ and it retails for only $165.The Chat: Cherish!

Anya Hindmarch Available/Unavailable Canvas Tote

In an ideal world, men would know exactly what women want. Just think, never again would you have to hint to your man that you would really like said handbag for your birthday. He would automatically know exactly which one you had been eye-balling for weeks, allowing him to totally surprise you! But what if men could read your mind in other ways? Like whether or not you are “available”? Well never fear all you single ladies out there because Anya Hindmarch has come out with a bag that will give men all the visual clues they need!Introducing the Anya Hindmarch Available/Unavailable Canvas Tote! Ta-da… instant psychic powers! But you have to be careful here because you don’t want to bestow these powers onto any old Joe walking down the street. See, this is how I think this should work. Carry the bag around with the “unavailable” side facing out. Then, when you see a cutie that you would like to strike up a conversation with, simply flip the bag around to the “available” side and give him a wink. With any luck, he will have just read your mind and will come over to say “hi”. And if he turns out to be a creep, simply flip the bag back to the “unavailable” side again. Haha! Okay, okay… seriously though, this actually is a cute tote bag. And who knows, maybe Mr. Right will see the humor in this playful bag as well.Find the Anya Hindmarch Available/Unavailable Canvas Tote at Net-A-Porter! It is currently available in Red and it retails for $230.Shop for it: Anya Hindmarch Boutique @ Net-a-Porter!The Chat: avail/unavail!

Deal Alert: Marc Jacobs Rose Flap Bag

Every bagista needs at least one classic-looking handbag in her wardrobe. Something that can be worn with just about anything, without the fear of looking too trendy or dated. Something that can stand the test of time. Normally, I would say that this is the kind of bag where you should plan on making a real investment. But if you’re looking to pick up a chic, classic handbag at an incredible price… then look no further than the Marc Jacobs Rose Flap Bag! Right now, Nordstrom has this beauty on sale for 40% off the regular price!I really like this bag because it has that classic Marc Jacobs look with its little flap pockets and push-lock closures. However, this bag also has its own unique look. The large flap closure gives the Marc Jacobs Rose Flap Bag a very refined appearance, while the exposed zip gussets add a little bit of versatility. It is quite distinct from other styles, such as the Blake or the Lisa.This bag would look perfectly polished paired with a pantsuit. However, it would probably look great paired with any kind of office attire. But only if you don’t need to carry around a ton of stuff for work! After all, this bag only measures 15 inches in length.Check out the Marc Jacobs Rose Flap Bag at Nordstrom, where it is on sale for $569.90 (Reg. $950). It is currently available in Black.The Chat: rose flap!

Blake Lively Style: Fendi Peekaboo Tote

I’m experiencing a bit of déjà vu here. It seems like I was just talking about the Fendi Peekaboo Tote. Wait… I was just talking about the Fendi Peekaboo Tote over at Bag Bliss last month! But here it is again (in all its glory), hanging from the arm of Blake Lively! The Gossip Girl was spotted outside the studio where she had been shooting the first few episodes of the show’s fourth season. So what’s so special about Blake’s Fendi Peekaboo Tote? Her bag is the ultra gorgeous all-python version. Yowza! Now that is one gorgeous bag! And one major investment piece! Well, at least the style is super practical. I really like the double compartment design, it’s perfect for keeping your things organized. Plus it looks awesome with Blake’s outfit. Although I’m not sure if I can forgive her for wearing Pepto-pink, super wide-leg pants. Yikes! I guess I should be thankful that she is at least color-coordinated.Blake’s version of the Fendi Peekaboo Tote sells for well over $5,000. But you can find other, more reasonably priced versions of this lovely bag at Nordstrom.Shop Fendi Boutique at Nordstrom!image: justjared

Judith Leiber Handbags & Purses

Olivia Wilde Style: Judith Leiber ‘Starburst’by Jenni MorenoApr 26, 2011 House fans, how happy were you to see the return of Thirteen played by Olivia Wilde? I for one was pretty excited about that!Recently Olivia popped up at the Tribeca Film Festival, looking stunning with the Judith Leiber “Starburst” in Silver with Black Stone in hand.I searched around and could not find this bag available online. A good spot to check back is the Judith Leiber Boutique at Net-a-Porter,Judith Leiber Pandaby Jenni MorenoDec 20, 2010 Checking Net-a-Porter’s “What’s New” section is part of my daily routine. And low-and-behold today something pretty spectacular showed up on the radar –  The Panda by Juidth LeiberThis little guy is so irresistible! The bear is created out of a black and silver hand-placed paved crystal, and I know it may be a little difficult to tell from the pictures, but the Panda is actually wearing a suit. See the little black bow-tie and when turned around he’s wearing a multi-sized crystal jacket. How adorable is that?! Browse the detailed pictures below or over on NAP’s site to see the full detail. The Panda also comes with a silver chain-link strap that can easily be clipped off or hidden inside. Other details include a silver base and push clasp fastening at top, and a fully lined in silver leather interior tummy.

Botkier Hugh Satchel

Wow, Botkier certainly has been pumping out a lot of new bags for this upcoming Fall season! I guess Monica has been working overtime this year! But that’s okay because I really enjoy seeing all the new designs, especially from a designer like Botkier. The company has come a long way since its beginning in 2003 and it has been so much fun watching it grow and evolve. So which Botkier handbag did I stumble upon while browsing the net this time? This lovely Hugh Satchel that you see pictured here, of course!The Botkier Hugh Satchel is such an interesting-looking piece. This bag sort of reminds me of a frog’s face. Hehe! But I mean that in a good way! I actually like little froggies (almost as much as I love turtles!). The soft Italian lambskin leather has a very subtle quilting texture that you don’t really notice upon first glance. The satchel is actually rectangular, but the top corners fold down and are hooked together to create the trapezoid (frog’s face) shape. This is such a luxurious style! It looks so smooshy and broken in, like it is something you have carried for years. It would definitely make a great everyday style that you can always turn to when you’re in the mood for something super soft!Discover the Botkier Hugh Satchel at StefaniBags! It is available in either Espresso or Black.#gallery-2 {margin: auto;}#gallery-2 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 33%;}#gallery-2 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-2 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

Vintage Louis Vuitton Bag Sale

New Prada boutique recently opened up along The Strip in Las Vegas at Crystal City Center. Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi (who also designed the new Miu Miu boutique in Singapore), the three-story 2,000 square feet flagship of space houses Prada’s collections of bags, footwear, ready-to-wear, and accessories for both women and men, as well as a series of limited-edition bags and accessories dedicated to the new Las Vegas location.Take a glance inside the new Prada Las Vegas Boutique below. Enjoy the pictures and tell me what you think.Anyone in the area stop in and check it out yet?#gallery-2 {margin: auto;}#gallery-2 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 33%;}#gallery-2 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-2 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

Vintage Monday kicked off today over at BillionDollarBabes, featuring Louis Vuitton handbags! There you’ll find an assortment of gently loved, previous season bags, majority of which are from the Epi line (green, yellow red, and blue), super glossy Vernis (bronze, red and black) and classic Monogram.Get there quick. With prices starting at $299, bags are going to sell out fast.

Bag Ideas for the Stay At Home Mom

The term “Stay At Home Mom” is such a misnomer. No matter what age my children are, I am never home for too long. Whether it’s school, appointments, grocery shopping, kids activities or just trying to squeeze in a little me time, a mom is always on the go. She always has to be prepared for what’s needed too. When my children were little, it was spare diapers & wipes and a change of clothing. Now that they are older, I don’t need as many extras, but a big bag always comes in handy.Personally, I think the perfect bag for a Stay At Home Mome has to be large, versatile and well-made. She’s busy and doesn’t have alot of time to change out bags, so they must go with everything. It needs to be large so that she can hold the necessities and then some. And it should be well-made so that it resists spills, dirty hands and anything else live throws at it! So, I spent some time over at Shopbop and came up with some fabulous items!The quilted nylon Tory Burch Jaden Tote is sophisticated, roomy and sturdy. With rolled, double-handles for comfort, they are long enough for shoulder wear. A very roomy interior with side pockets will hold tons of stuff. It’s available in black and dry orange for $350. Although, items tend to get a little lost sometimes, that problem can be resolved by zip pouched accessories like the darling striped Rebecca Minkoff pouch set for $95.I firmly believe that a mom shouldn’t have to curb her style. For those edgier women, the Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Jasper Slashed Bag with laser cutouts with roomy interior for $450 is an excellent choice. Subtle rocker chic will take mom from PTO to soccer games to shopping in style!The Rebecca Mikoff Nikki bag was an instant classic when it first launched for good reason. It’s stylish, timeless and well-made. Perfect for everyday and such a great price at $495 (for the black). The Alligator Impression Nikki is currently on sale for $416.50Alexander Wang’s wonderfully smooshy Darcy Slouch Leather Hobo is absolutely a great feeling bag. The leather is so wonderful to the touch, but the major bonus is the studded bottom that protects the bag from anything on the floor. When you are out with the kids for a quick bite or at home. You never know what’s special gift will be waiting for you on the floor. The detail is subtle but striking and one of my favorites for $850.The stunning Be & D Garbo Tote with goldtone hardware is a true showstopper. Rock chic but not grungy with it’s soft gold hardware and metallic leather. It also includes a shoulder strap for hands-free (truly an essential) and a convertible look. Two zip pockets, 2 pouch pockets and a key hook keeps items nice and tidy too. A special gift for $1495.A cross-body style might be mom’s go-to preference for ease of carry. While typically not as large some of the hobos or shoulder-bags, it does balance the weight nicely and keeps the bag from slipping off your shoulder. Sounds rational doesn’t it? The Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Natasha Messenger Bag is classic and stylish. This beautiful port color is a perfect pop of color and works well with most colors in your wardrobe for the winter season. A great buy for $328.Finally, I recommend finding a wallet that can function as a clutch for those special evenings out away from the kids. The Tory Burch Zip Continental Wallet in silver metallic snake for $225 will do the trick. With a 1″ depth, there’s room for your phone, a zip pocket for your bills and plenty of slots for credit cards. Fits easily from purse to purse too! absolutely fabulous and a perfect stocking stuffer just for mom!