The New Vintage

I love all things vintage, but there comes a time when you have to retire the black leather motorcycle jacket and the red leather Michael Jackson jacket to a far, far region in your closet, simply because it just doesn't play well with the hand me down Vittorio Ricci pumps your stylish aunt once gave you. Ashley Watson is a fashion blessing in disguise. She takes vintage leather jackets and other items and transforms them into new, wearable handbags that you wouldn't hesitate to wear today. It's brilliant really. She leaves in some cool details from the original jacket like the stitching or the pockets and integrates it into the bag as a functional element.

So even though I don't encourage hording your wares all your life, I do encourage creative recycling and this is a great way to do it.

Check it out here: Beklina :: Ashley Watson Bag Purse Tote :: - fair trade - eco fashion - green Stylehive BM 190695 #:190695

Geometry, What's Not To Love?

I've always loved the idea of modernist fashion. There's something to be said about sleek, geometric forms in our accessories and we don't often get to really wear them. Here's something that I think you'll like. It's a cuff bangle by Schullin that incorporates a hard edged look with typically feminine materials like gold and diamonds. This can be worn with a crisp white blouse, or juxtaposed against a soft silk dress. The diamonds are small and unobtrusive enough for daytime and yet shiny and bold enough for evening. It's also a nice change from the usual beads and baubles that we're so used to wearing. And if you're from the city like me, it seconds as a great weapon against those aggressive tourists and sidewalk crowds. Just kidding, I couldn't hurt a fly!

Here's a link to one of the places you can find this bracelet...
diamond & gold "Spange" bracelet by S C H U L L I N - diamonds - design - jewelry Stylehive BM 206266 #:206266

It's A Cinch!

I'm wiping my chin now because I just drooled over the image of this belt by Lara Bohinc. It's beautiful, if I do say so myself...and I do! It's got a woven center panel and black leather trim all around. The best part is the textured snake chain pattern in the front. Nevermind that its black and easy to match with anything. It's a rockin' belt!

Why do I love it so much? Because when you're often running from your day job to an after work afair that sometimes lasts til past your usual bedtime, like I am, it's always good to be adorned in something like this accessory that goes easily from day to night. Imagine this cinched around the waistline of your favorite dress. Goodness, its even fun to wear with all black! Currently the price is BP300 and can be purchased at the Lara Bohinc boutique at 51 Hoxton Square, London N1 or call at +44 20 7684 1645.

For me, as for many women, it's all about the details.