The Bag to Buy?

Chloe Marcie tote

I've been asked a lot lately about fall bags... what to buy?! Seems to be the first thing everyone wants to purchase for fall.  It's the best way to refresh a wardrobe and get excited for the new season.  I have to admit I am not totally sure what the bag-to-have it is... (I am still thinking of a new Balenciaga bag or just pulling out my old ones.) There are so many factors to consider -- work, kids, style, lifestyle...  But usually, it just comes down to lust. 


I do know I am loving the Chloe Marcie totes -- especially the ones in a rugged-brown leather.  Ditto the Proenza Schouler PS1 bags.

Chloe Marcie tote

Proenza Schouler PS1

And an Alexander Wang Emile bag continues to be at the top of my wishlist -- so chic and so cool.

Alexander Wang Emile tote

Oftentimes, once you fall in love with a good everyday bag, your new season's wardrobe just evolves around it. Decisions, decisions.

The Shirtdress

Chloe

Lately, I've had more than a few occasions -- a playdate in the city, a meeting a preschool, a ladies' lunch etc -- to which I simply could not find the right thing to wear.  As I was going through my closet I just kept thinking, a shirtdress would be the perfect piece. Simple, chic, relatively casual but still polished. Why didn't I have one or two in my wardrobe?   

It is so versatile -- can easily be dressed up or down and changed even more with accessories. I'd love one in crisp white or light chambray.

Perfect Combo, cont...

Mystery solved!  Reese's coveted black coat is Chloe... according to Vogue.com, which included her in their best dressed this week. The bright dress by The Row.

Menswear, Maybe?

Kate Moss

I haven't worn a suit in I don't know how long -- years and years. My jobs never required it and honestly, it is just not my style.  But maybe it is time to think about investing in one again? A well-fitting, high-quality suit is one of those things that we should always have in our closet. Undoubtedly, occasions arises when a suit is the appropriate attire.  And in between, there is nothing wrong with wearing the pieces on their own. I do like wearing blazers. I have been throwing on a black wool Chloe jacket at night recently and feel instantly polished and pulled together... always balancing the structure of the jacket with something feminine (see my post on ruffled blouses).

I love the way Kate Moss looks so cool in her gray suit -- not the least bit stuffy or stiff. Even the Olsens look grown up and sophisticated. While a suit is not high on my shopping priority list, it is something to think about... 

Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen

Milla Jovovich

Cate Blanchett