handbags « Bella Maven Blog – For You

Posts Tagged ‘handbags’

hat fetish: look of the day

Friday, January 22nd, 2010

I just love love LOVE hats…almost, but not quite as much as I love food. I think it’s probably because I’m one of those people that actually look good in them. I can take any hat, put it on, and it looks great on me. It’s actually surprising considering I have a big noggin. Usually, people with large heads look silly in hats, that’s not true for me. But, I look hideous in glasses so thank goodness I have 20/20 vision.

Well, with the weather turning awful, hats are the perfect accessory to keep you warm. So, here’s BM model Abby looking lovely and beautiful with a knit hat from the Bella Maven closet. Remind me to tell you more about the Bella Maven closet as we get closer to relaunching our website with its enhanced features. You know what this means, we will probably be carrying hats soon.

(Abby is wearing the gwen dress by Lush, ivy earrings by Gorjana, lara handbag in creme by Big Buddha, wisdom ring by Ur Eternity, and turquoise pear necklace by Boe. Hat, denim vest, and belt from the Bella Maven closet. Photography by Marie Padilla enhanced with lomography technique and viewfinder | Styled by Loralei Rose Bingamon for bellamaven.com.)

Tags: Abby Nyema, apparel, Bella Maven, bellamaven.com, Big Buddha, By Boe, clothing, fashion, Gorjana, handbags, hats, jewelry, look of the day, Loralei Rose Bingamon, Lush, Marie Padilla, Ur Eternity
Posted in look of the day | 2 Comments »

spring forward – 2010 fashion trends

Wednesday, January 20th, 2010

by Cassandra King

Even though most of the nation is coping with severe cold snaps and rain storms, this has little bearing on retailers, who are displaying shipments of spring wares. Back in September, major fashion houses were showing their spring lines and even though spring is barely here, fashion lines are already in production with their fall 2010 offerings. Crazy isn’t it? It’s so hard to keep up. Most of us are too busy to pour over designer sites, the New York Times fashion section, magazines, and countless blogs. Well, have no fear. All you need to know to get yourselves ready for spring 2010 is right here.

Although the New Year’s Eve ball already dropped earlier this month, you can catch the top ten countdown of spring trends below. Starting with number ten.

10. the boyfriend blazer – The boyfriend blazer is still going strong. Pair it with skinny jeans, fitted tops, or sweet skirts. Wear the trend with: boyfriend sweater.

9. patterns and prints – Graphics are bold and busy this season. Pants and dresses dominated the runways showcasing these styles. With the onset of spring, we can always expect to see floral prints. In addition to the posies, designers also debuted strips and abstract artsy prints. Wear the trend with: rumi, monet, moderne, jenny, pleated knit, purple watercolor, malaga, navy wrap, speckle, flocked zebra, abstraction, pink watercolor, butterfly, watercolor, erica, tropicale, and zig zag.

8. denim and chambray – Think soft blues that look broken in. Shredded, ripped, torn, or patched, jeans are sexy and revealing. Invest in this look, it will inevitably keep going long past the season.

7. futuristic warrior, military, and tribal - Military is the new classic and has been evolving. Elements of military history are being reinterpreted with a modern, futuristic twist. Think wilder and more fierce with inspiration coming from ancient Rome, Egypt, and the Celtic warrior. Look for metal plating, leather tunics, and tribal inspired motifs in clothing and accessories. Mix these elements with glamorous pieces such as sequins or pair soft flowing fabric with sharp metal plating or studded pieces. Wear this trend with: tribal bracelet, graham petal charm, graham leather wrap, rockstar clutch, and sario clutch.

6. knee high and over the knee socks - Socks are back in the forefront and can add volumes to your outfit. As a defining look, socks are transeasonal and will carry on into winter of 2010.

5. see-through and sheer – Not everyone is gutsy enough to go with this look. We blame it on the rising temperatures and the desire to show off. Be sassy, yet cool. Style tip: match sheer tops with lacy camisoles or tanks. Neutral shades work best. Wear this trend with: ruffle mini and gigi ruffle.

4. urban sporty – Sportswear is suddenly streetwear. It’s sexy, svelte, and effortless with it’s youthful tomboy chic . Designers take inspiration from tennis, football, baseball, golf, and dance.

3. jumpsuits and boy shorts - There’s a one piece clothing revival and anything goes when it comes to length. It’s all about jumpsuits, playsuits, and rompers. Though not for everyone, it offers you plenty of options. It’s also time to hit the gym now that hemlines are shorter than ever. Shorter-than-short is the new mantra with hot pants and boy shorts back in style. Wear this trend: madeira romper.

2. minimalist. Less is more and this is true for spring. Imagine collections from designers like Calvin Klein, Jill Sander, Miuccia Prada, and Giorgio Armani. There is no better way to ring in spring than to be fresh, simple, and clean. Wear this trend with: habutai silk, palomar, vanderbilt, lita, gwen, lada, and rose.

1. ruffles – Whether on handbags, sandals, tops, or skirts, this ultra-feminine trend is everywhere. Wear this trend with: jaime, marble, newport, envy, emma, ruffle, gigi ruffle, side ruffle, and ruffle mini.

color watch – Break away from the bleak black and gray of winter. Green, pink, blue, indigo, and yellow are great colors to liven up your wardrobe.

There you have it ladies, now go and get it!

about the author – Cassandra King is owner and CEO of Concepts de Mode, a fashion consulting and image management firm in San Francisco. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Cassandra at (925) 360-4707 or on the web, at Cassandra@conceptsdemode.com.

(Photography by Marie Padilla & Ryan Gabriel | Styled by Loralei Rose Bingamon for bellamaven.com| Modeled by Abby Nyema, Denise Ammon, Loralei Rose Bingamon, and Molly Pool.)

Tags: Abby Nyema, accessories, apparel, Bella Maven, bellamaven.com, Cassandra King, clothing, Denise Ammon, fashion, handbags, Loralei Rose Bingamon, Marie Padilla, Molly Pool, Ryan Gabriel, Spring 2010 fashion trends, spring fashion trends
Posted in fashion tips, fashion trends | 5 Comments »

old and new

Sunday, January 10th, 2010

Though we often think of the new year as out with the old and in with the new, Bella Maven’s approach to fashion is all about mixing these two opposites. This is why we absolutely adore our vintage De La Luna leather handbags – josie, butterfly, fruity, true blue, and blue rose. Without the intricate hand painted design on fabric, these handbags would look so plain. The old classic style of the handbag is upgraded with floral imagery. If you mix the moderne tank with black slacks, a vest, and a scarf from your closet and combine it with the josie bag or pair the pink watercolor tank with your own leather jacket, some leggings, a scarf, and the butterfly clutch, your look becomes street chic and naturally pulled together.

We apply this same philosophy to other things in our life like our relationships – keeping old friends and meeting new ones. This week we had a chance to see our good friend from Otis, up-and-coming and uber-talented designer Jay Nicolas Sario who stars in Project Runway this season; our favorite celebrity photographer Jonathan Friolo, whose photos you can see in various publications; foodie and best chef ever Rolando Armenta, who is a visual merchandiser for GAP corporate and makes a killer boeuf bourguignon; new friends Justin Warwick, owner of vintage store Warwick in Echo Park; and Anthony Martinez, store manager of soon to be open Australian based company Cotton On.

We hope you can incorporate this style mantra into your own wardrobe – layering the old with the new. Have a happy 2KY! Be productive, fashionable, and always strive for something beautiful everyday!

(Loralei wears moderne tank, coral celluloid ring, and josie handbag. Shoes, vest, scarf, sunglasses, and bangles from the Bella Maven closet. Denise wears pink watercolor tank, gliteratti scarf, butterfly clutch, and madrid ring. Sunglasses, earrings, jacket, and leggings from the Bella Maven closet. Shot on location in Los Angeles. Photography by Joyce Vicente | Styled by Loralei Rose Bingamon for bellamaven.com.)

Tags: Bella Maven, bellamaven.com, butterfly clutch, De La Luna handbags, fashion, handbags, inhousephoto.com, Jay Nicolas Sario, Jonathan Friolo, josie bag, Joyce Vicente, look of the day, Loralei Rose Bingamon, moderne tank, Otis College of Art & Design, Otis School of Fashion, pink watercolor tank, Project Runway, Rolando Armenta, vintage handbags
Posted in look of the day, products | No Comments »

party like a rockstar

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009

By Loralei Rose Bingamon

It began last Wednesday morning with an email. I had just been invited to Los Angeles Laker- Ron Artest’s December bash and toy drive. Thrilled, but also in a state of disbelief, I sat staring at my computer screen. Anxiety began to fill my veins. Like every style conscious woman, the first question that popped into my mind was, “What am I going to wear?” With only two days to find the perfect fit, I decided to skip the crowded malls and go straight to the Bella Maven girls for help.

After a long debate with myself, I decided that I wanted to go for the glam rock look. But just how would I pull this off and still be comfortable and confident at the same time? I knew I needed the perfect dress and just the right accessories to do the trick. Thank God Bella Maven had so many great selections for me to choose from.

The puple palomar dress saved my life! I absolutely loved it and so did everyone else at the party! It’s stretchy and the body shaping material hugged me in just the right places, accentuating what needed to be accentuated and hiding what needed to be hidden, if you know what I mean. Ahem. The dress was classy, hip, and occasion appropriate. Whether walking through the club or dancing on the dance floor, I felt confident in every stride and two step. Black textured tights and black ankle booties undoubtedly complemented the dress and aided my rocker aura.

Knowing that glam rock style is not complete without the appropriate details, I chose a few edgy pieces from the Bella Maven jewelry collection. Scouring for studs, metals, and metallics, I decided on the snake earrings and gray graham leather wrap bracelet with gold studs. If these two pieces didn’t scream “she’s bad”, nothing could. To tie the entire outfit together, I went with the studded rockstar clutch.

I truly felt like a rockstar that night and I have Bella Maven to thank. So, thank you Bella Maven. I heart you!

(Stylist and model Loralei Rose Bingamon wears the palomar dress in purple, rockstar clutch in black, snake earrings, and graham leather wrap bracelet in gray. Shoes and stockings are model’s own.)

Tags: apparel, Bella Maven, clutch, dress, fashion, graham leather wrap bracelet by Gorjana, handbags, jewelry, look of the day, Loralei Rose Bingamon, palomar dress, rockstar clutch, Ron Artest, Ron Artest December party, snake earrings, SOOS, Urban Expressions
Posted in look of the day | 1 Comment »

the best handbags to give

Monday, December 7th, 2009

A great gift to give to the women in your life are handbags. One size fits all, they can completely change an outfit, and you can use them year-round. You can find great handbags for every style and budget at bellamaven.com. Here are some of our favorites:

For the professional. Try the shoulder hobo ($215). It’s pricier than our other handbags, but totally worth it. Made of beautiful genuine Italian leather, it is available in either stone or green and has a clean, classic style. Plus, it’s roomy enough to replace a briefcase. It’s sure to impress her colleagues. An affordable alternative, but equally beautiful and elegant is one of our newest handbags, the double zipper satchel in black or pewter ($69). It can be used as a satchel or worn as a shoulder bag. The cross-stitching detail around the edges and down the middle adds interest to an otherwise minimalist design. Other great choices for the professional are the fold over ($88), messenger flap over ($82), miranda ($76), and the union ($68).

For the traveler. The washed crossbody ($119) is a perfect choice. With airline carriers charging to check in baggage, it is more important than ever that your carry-on serve double duty as a handbag and hold all your travel essentials. The washed crossbody fits the bill. The lara hobo in cream ($72) is also a great choice for the traveler. The front zip pockets provide easy access to your travel essentials. There are inside pockets for your phone, wallet, travel documents, and the optional shoulder strap will free your hands to carry all your other luggage. The passport wallet ($69) is perfect for the woman who is constantly on the go. It is made of genuine Italian leather and large enough to fit all her travel documents, including her passport. Other great choices for the traveler are the hazel ($69) and the seattle ($64).

For the trendy diva. Nothing beats the single handle fringe ($104). This pewter purse is perfect for posh parties. The faux leather fringe and chain handle command attention. The purple nolita handbag ($78) has funky details like studs and tassles that will show off any woman’s fun and funky side. The max clutch in red and faux python ($36) will dress up any outfit and it’s so affordable, you’ll have enough to buy some matching shoes. Other great choices for the trendy diva are the fringe bucket ($92), which comes in olive or red, the metallic satchel ($85), and the ryan quilted ($70).

Tags: accessories, Bella Maven, bellamaven.com, double zipper satchel, fold over, fringe bucket, handbags, hazel, lara hobo, max clutch, messenger flap over, metallic satchel, miranda, nolita, passport wallet, professional handbags, ryan quilted, seattle, shoulder hobo, single handle fringe, travel handbags, trendy handbags, union, washed crossbody
Posted in handbags, holiday | 10 Comments »

let us give thanks

Wednesday, November 25th, 2009

As we approach Thanksgiving, I am reminded that it’s that time of the year again to be thankful for all the blessings in my life and to let the people I care about know I appreciate them. So, I wanted to thank Bella Maven and my sister for all the joy they have given me these past few months. Without them, I would not be able to look great at an affordable price every day. Among the blessings in my closet that I am most thankful for are:

(1) jaime tunic – It’s the perfect office top. I can wear it under a suit or with a full skirt and some pumps. The vertical ruffles are ladylike and feminine and give the illusion of looking slimmer and taller. The modern look of the nancy bracelet and wisdom ring is a nice contrast to the ruffles. The jaime tunic would also look great with vintage pieces like the floral necklace or blue flower locket.

(2) rose dress – The most versatile dress and great for traveling because it packs up easily and is fairly wrinkle resistant. For a casual day of sightseeing or shopping, wear it with the boyfriend sweater, patterned tights, and booties. For an evening out, exchange the sweater for a beautiful scarf, and ditch the tights and booties for some strappy silver or gold heels. Finish off the look with the matching silver or gold ivy necklace and earring set.

(3) tiny dancer bag – This is the perfect alternative to a briefcase. It holds everything – paperwork, files, pens, even a laptop or netbook, and my wallet. It also doubles as an overnight bag for those weekend getaways.

(4) make love not trash tote bags – So inexpensive and strong, I keep one handy wherever I am to carry all my extra stuff. These eco-friendly bags carry groceries, books, gifts, papers, gym clothes, and just about anything else that I put in them, and I love how they come with different prints and colors.

(5) tress square and heart rings and small star earrings – Stackable rings so cute and lightweight I sometimes forget that I am wearing them. The rings and star earrings are small and dainty enough to wear in the office every day, but also unique enough to add interest to any outfit.

I am looking forward to adding more blessings to my closet in the upcoming year. In fact, I can start this Friday at the Bella Maven Black Friday Sale – 30% off everything! Now that, is a blessing! Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Shopping!

Tags: apparel, Bella Maven, Big Buddha, blue flower locket, boyfriend sweater, Cara Lyndon jewelry, fashion, floral necklace, Gorjana jewelry, handbags, ivy earrings, ivy necklace, jaime tunic, jewelry, Lush, make love not trash tote bags, Naked Zebra, nancy bracelet, rose dress, small star earrings, tiny dancer handbag, tress heart ring, tress square ring, wisdom ring
Posted in holiday, products | 7 Comments »

things that I like right now

Wednesday, October 21st, 2009

I’m a big believer in making a scene when you enter a room. It’s nice to hear a gasp every now and then or to be suddenly self-conscious as you feel the weight of someone staring at you. It’s usually caused by what I’m wearing. I like things that are unique, make a statement, and are different from anything else I’ve seen. It’s no wonder I’m loving Cara Lyndon jewelry right now (the blue or red long drop earrings, dogwood earrings, acorn necklace, blue flower locket, and gold lucite ring). I love to mix new with old and I especially like that her jewelry incorporates vintage pieces from the 1950’s. She is one hot designer that is generating a buzz in magazines like Lucky.

There’s also something about placing art on objects like handbags. I adore the De La Luna clutch handbags myself (Life Design I and Life Design II). They are in such high demand. Each one is an original. Everywhere I go, someone always asks me about my De La Luna bag. They become even more excited when they find out that the design is hand painted on fabric. Just this weekend, my hairstylist’s assistant kept asking me about my bag.

I tend to prefer classic dressing – in neutral colors like blacks, browns, or grays. This season it’s all about the stark contrast of black and white. If you have a viewpoint, choose dresses like the soft rumi dress or the casual, but comfortable lita or jersey dresses. One of the BM models wore the jersey dress off of one shoulder. That was new and sexy. If you like to wear ankle boots and leggings or tight jeans, then the moderne tank, faith tunic, or flocked zebra are perfect.

Tags: acorn necklace, apparel, Bella Maven apparel, Bella Maven clutches, Bella Maven jewelry, blue flower locket necklace, Cara Lyndon, Cara Lyndon jewelry, Collective Clothing, De La Luna, De La Luna Designs, Esley Collection, faith tunic, flocked zebra, handbags, jersey dress, jewelry, Life Design I, Life Design II, lita dress, moderne tank, rumi dress
Posted in products | 3 Comments »

top ten trends for fall 2009

Tuesday, September 15th, 2009

by Cassandra King

Most of the general public has no idea how much time and how advanced fashion houses must be in order to compete in the global world of fashion. For example, during my years at Gap Inc., we would be seasons ahead of what was actually in stores at the time. By summer, the fall fashions have arrived, marketing materials are being finalized, and then off to plan for the biggest period for retailers – the HOLIDAYS. Think Christmas in July and that’s pretty much the seasonality of the fashion world. Quick, quick, quick. So while the rest of us are soaking up the sun during the final days of summer and wearing light rayon, silk, or poly-blend fabrics, we really need to be gearing up for fall because it’s coming on September 22nd whether you like it or not. Now seeing as how I care about my readers, I am not going to let you fall into fashion this year without providing a list of the top ten items you need to keep your wardrobe current.

1. boyfriend blazer – This look, like some of the other styles this season are largely influenced by the 80’s with a slightly modern twist. The blazer looks best when paired with leggings and uber high heels. Try rolling up the sleeves and throwing it over a mini dress.

2. leggings – Just when I thought they couldn’t get skinnier than the skinny jean, they hit us with leggings. This season leggings are everywhere and with styles ranging from your classic black to leopard print and leather. Yes, that’s correct, leather. There should be something out there for all of us. Choose from an array of leggings with zippers, studs, patterned designs, and shiny metallics for fall. Go nuts! I must however draw the line at leggings with stirrups. Ladies, please leave it to the equestrians. Ick, how awful!

3. red and purple – Simply stated the “it” colors of the season. Get it! (bird lace tote, purple hearts tote, hobo with chain and tassles, fringe bucket bag, miranda handbag, nolita handbag, pikake handbag, solid dress, and red/black print dress)

4. vampy heels – Yes, they hurt and are bad for our backs along with a myriad of other side effects, but they look soooo…good.

5. gray – The fashion industry is deeming gray the new black of the season and why not. Sweater, jeans, scarves, etc., gray can go all the way. (vanderbilt dress, gwen dress, duchess dress, habutai silk dress, and hobo with chain and tassles)

6. one shoulder dress – Oh, so sexy. (side ruffle dress)

7. leather – The classic leather jacket is boldly breaking through, but look an ye shall find sleek fitted versions along with jackets adorned in zippers and hardwear.

8. velvet – One look that can be tricky, but elegant if done right. I suggest velvet jeans, a fitted blazer or slinky little dress, which will come in handy around holiday party time.

9. over the knee, thigh high boots – One thought comes to mind, Pretty Woman. We all remember the iconic image of Julia Roberts strolling along the L.A. streets with her patent leather, over the knee boots. Hmmm, yes she was a hooker, but does that mean you will look like one too? Absolutely not! This look is recommended only for you fearless fashionistas out there. Try pairing these with a mini, leggings, and the boyfriend blazer or a tunic. Tres chic for a night on the town. Watch out! One tip: tone the look down with a simple hairstyle.

10. animal prints – Grrrr. You gotta have some grrrr in ya. If not throw on a leopard print dress and you’ll feel it. If you are a bit more demure, try a pair of ballet flats with animal accents. (flocked zebra tunic, brown python bag, silver python wallet, blues wallet, cheetah wallet, python duffle bag, metallic satchel bag, python bowler bag, liliane handbag, eclipse clutch, and midnight clutch)

about the author - Cassandra King is owner and CEO of Concepts de Mode, a fashion consulting and image management firm in San Francisco. For any fashion related questions or for more information, please contact Cassandra at 925-360-4707 or by email at Cassandra.e.king@gmail.com.

Tags: fall 2009, fall fashion trends, fashion, handbags, style, trends, women's apparel
Posted in fashion trends | 2 Comments »

on virtuous consumption

Saturday, August 1st, 2009

You’re probably wondering what type of marker we use when we select the products we feature on our site. How is that we select those types of dresses, those types of handbags, or those pieces of jewelry? It’s really simple actually. We follow a certain philosophy. You can call it virtuous consumption. We like products that are well-made, stylish, luxurious, but sensible in price. At the end of the day, we want something unique that you can’t find anywhere else, but is of good quality.

The Bella Maven girls have traveled all over the world. It is our job to constantly search for new things. We are very good at shopping, but even in the shopping malls, we have noticed that many of the items don’t compare to ours.

You probably don’t know this, but I’m going to tell you. Almost every piece of jewelry on our site is handmade in California, New York, or Canada. We’ve actually seen the artisans making the jewelry. Many of our dresses are also made in the U.S. We like manufacturers that use organic cotton. And, we emphasize eco-friendly products that’s why you’ll see a lot of handbags we carry are made out of faux leather. It looks and feels like real leather. Rest assured that when you buy something from Bella Maven, you are getting something that is a rare find.

Tags: apparel, bella maven philosophy, handbags, jewelry
Posted in about bella maven | No Comments »

scarf it up

Sunday, July 19th, 2009

by Jennifer Chen

As we approach fall, and scarves are still being spotted with no signs of departure, here are a few tips when flaunting some flair around your neck:

Don’t fight: pick a scarf that balances the rest of your outfit. Stick to one or two accessories that accent the overall look.
Don’t be afraid to go bold or sophisticated.
Although you’re looking for harmony between your accessories and overall, avoid identical patterned scarf/purse sets. Too matchy-matchy.

Try a new method of tying your scarf for a change. For ideas on different tie-styles and knots – from casual to Ascot – see this Scarf-Tying guide.

Of course, accessories are meant to complement, and Bella Maven has some great purses that unifies your look.

Pair a basic buffalo plaid with one of our new fringe-detailed bags, the soho and the nolita.
Try a bold pattern or a keffiyeh-style scarf with our subdued but sophisticated sedona or woven duffle. The woven trim on both purses and the patterns of a keffiyeh present unity with variety. For another example, check out Lauren Conrad’s bold bohemian scarf with a simple quilted black leather purse.
Match a pretty, feminine scarf with our soft pikake purse, available in pink and lavender. Think subtle, but not stark, contrast here. A bohemian scarf works well with the pikake as well.
Or spice up a plain scarf with one of Bella Maven’s vibrant handbags. The same is true when you have a monochromatic outfit – try a bright scarf and an interesting bag. The woven satchel, lara and lindsey bags look fierce against a black silhouette, as well as the patterned python tote.