Accessories

I’m always incredibly inspired by the awesome handmade creations over at P.S. I Made This.  Graceful ankle wrap sandals, pom pom necklaces, ruffle t-shirts, ways to customize your own clothes with the D&G paint inspired trend, this site is the ultimate in fashion do-it-yourself bags, clothing, and jewelry and offers an inventive solution to inexpensive style.  My most recent favorite is this preppy chic iPad case, which can almost be mistaken for a fashionable clutch. Made out of an inflatable travel pillowcase, electrical tape, and gorilla cloth, I love the rattan stripe pattern of her original version, but you can pick out your own pattern and customize it when you select your pillowcase.

Not so great at do-it yourself?  Check out a notebook inspired hard iPad case that reminds me of my favorite moleskins behind the jump (more…)

When we discovered the New York-based vintage costume jewelry and python handbag line, Madame Mathilde, we were instantly obsessed. A graduate of Parson’s, designer Jennifer Kelling incorporates vintage rhinestone brooches, antique chandelier crystals and delicate chains into her statement-making pieces. We asked Jennifer to share what her current obsessions are, so please check them out below: (more…)

This week, I got the opportunity to meet actress Zhang Ziyi (Memoirs of a Geisha; House of Flying Daggers; Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), who was in town at Chong Hing Jewelers to debut Omega’s new Constellation Collection of ultra-luxury watches. One of Omega’s latest celebrity ambassadors, Ziyi joins the company of George Clooney, Nicole Kidman, Cindy Crawford and the infamous James Bond. Her uncommon beauty, grace, femininity and international appeal has also helped her rise to the highest ranking woman on Forbes’ list of China’s most powerful celebrities — all by age 31.

But perhaps what is most fascinating about Ziyi — and I don’t think I’m alone on this — is not just her luxury appeal but her paradoxical nature; she brings such a strong, arguably intimidating presence and zealous dedication to every role — whether it involves dodging and splitting her way through a sword fight or dancing aggressively in foot-high, dangerous platform shoes. Yet in reality, she is this tiny, seemingly fragile girly girl.

I only had about five minutes to chat with Ziyi, so rather than try to ask her the myriad questions I had initially written down, I stuck to the subject we at TDO love best: style. (After all, I believe it can reveal a lot about someone!) (more…)

I normally don’t make a fuss about sales, but it’s payday and I couldn’t resist some seriously glam accessories like this Large Gold Turquoise Bubble Klimt Ring, $116.25, above. Pick it up along with a pair of Miss Havisham Clear Liquid Lucite Earrings, $145, (my fave) for 25 percent off at Alexis Bittar’s annual summer sale, which kicks off July 1st (tomorrow!) online at alexisbittar.com and in his NYC boutiques.

You’ll be able to get discounts on the Spring/Summer 2010 collection, full of sculptural, ethereal, fun and funky pieces made of semi-precious stones and metals. (Inspired by his antique-collecting parents and NYC club days in the ’80s, Bittar makes jewelry fit for the likes of Bergdorf’s, Saks, Burberry, Estee Lauder, Michael Kors — and Sex and the City’s stylist Patricia Field. So this is one designer you’ll want to add to your wardrobe.) Go, go, go!

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I was pretty thrilled to hear that Coach collaborated with four fashion bloggers to produce a series of limited edition bags called Coach Collectibles. Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere (one of my daily reads), Krystal Simpson of What is Reality Anyway?, Kelly Framel of The Glamourai, and Karla Deras of Karla’s Closet had the amazing opportunity to design their perfect Coach bag and then have it sold online.

They’re all lovely but my favorites are Emily’s Satchel and Karla’s Clutch.  Emily’s bag is structured but still ultra girly, while Karla’s bag is sophisticated and versatile. I wouldn’t mind owning both of these! Which is your fave? Check out more images below and order at Coach.com. (more…)

As the designer of Gemma Redux, Rachel Dooley knows a thing or two about the concept of cool. An almost lawyer, Rachel decided to take a break from studying for the bar by making her first mixed metal necklace from vintage and industrial materials, and thus, launching her line.  Today, her designs have graced the necks of celebs like Cameron Diaz, Ginnifer Goodwin, Jessica Alba and Molly Sims, and have spawned devoted fans (like one of our TDO editors)! Check out what Rachel is obsessing over behind the cut. (more…)

Spring seems to be the season to incorporate a bit more color back into your wardrobe and accessories. Morelle Handbags has some fabulous bags that come in an array of sunny colors and are super versatile. All of the handbags are vegetable dyed soft cow hide leather. Here are two favorites:

The Mini Truffle handbag features ruffled leather with a couple pockets inside, which offers you enough space to tuck in your lip gloss and other necessities (so they don’t get “lost” in your bag). It’s perfect for everyday use! I also adore the Pochette, a gorgeous pleated clutch that has hidden magnets on the top and a wristlet strap. You can use it for so many occasions from dinner out with friends to that next summer wedding! (The Violet Croc is gorgeous!)

View all styles and shop at morellehandbags.com.