Recent Purchases: Cuff Bracelet, Fashion Inspirations

My secret dream is to be photographed for my favorite blog, The Sartorialist. Scott Schuman takes pictures of street fashion in places such as New York and Milan. What I like about The Sartorialist is that Schuman pushes the envelope by taking some pictures that aren't always neccesarily fashionable. He really questions what personal style really means and challenges you to do the same. This book showcases his favorite images, and very limited text. The pictures speak for itself, and to me, it's very inspiring. It has over 500 pages, and I bought it off Amazon for only $16.

When I saw this movie in theaters back in April, I knew I had to own the DVD. I'm waiting for this to be shipped to me from Amazon, since it won't be released until September. I know that this will be something I can watch over and over again without ever getting sick of it. I highly recommend you get this film if you are a true fashion lover! Buy this from Amazon for only $19.99!

I love browsing through online sample sales. I bought this Pearl Cuff by Gerard Yosca from Ideeli.com at their RED HOT sale event. I can't wait to receive this in the mail! I bought it for only $25, originally $230. Like I posted before, Ideeli is only invite only, so use this link to sign up and get great deals!

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Valentino

The black and nude color combination seems like the way to go for this upcoming fall season. I was blown away with the floor length gowns with its ruffles and tiered detailing. However, the rest of the collection didn't really impress me. The knee length dresses weren't very "Valentino" to me and they just seemed so ordinary. I wasn't really feeling the frilly shoes either. Not only were they not very attractive, but the models had a difficult time walking in them as well. This collection made me miss the genius of the retired designer and it would have been nice to see one dress in the signature Valentino red color. What do you think?

Valentino: The Last Emperor

I had the pleasure of watching the documentary, Valentino: The Last Emperor today in San Francisco. I had no idea what the film was going to be about; in fact, I didn't even know it was a documentary! However, as the opening scenes of his past couture fashion shows flashed across the screen, I was instantly drawn into the world of Valentino Garavani. The film delves into the lavish lifestyle of Valentino, his partner Giancarlo Giammetti, and their exclusive inner circle. The film paints an intimate portrait of a controlling, yet funny; diva-esque, yet endearing Valentino and I couldn't get enough! All in all, the film was very poignant and touching and I could really feel Valentino's simple passion of making clothes for women and to "make them feel beautiful." To view the Valentino: The Last Emperor trailer as well as to check theater locations and movie times, click here.

What I Want Now: Handbags Galore!

Some people prefer brand named clothing, others shoes, but me--I have always had a love affair with handbags. I have told my mom, grandma, and aunt (who, combined, have so many handbags, they can open up a boutique) to save all their bags so that one day, I can inherit them and build a closet and line them up alphabetically by brand. I know it may sound a bit neurotic, but I really enjoy beautiful things, and to have a collection is a personal fashion dream of mine. Below, I have comprised a list of the top 5 bags that I have been eyeing for quite some time. Some are new this season, while others are old styles or classics. Perhaps one day, I will be able to afford them! A girl can only dream.

Valentino "Rossier" Medium Tote
$1,950


Marc Jacobs "Stam" Swarovski Shoulder Bag
$2,350


Chloe "Paddington" Satchel
$1,720


Balenciaga "Giant City" Bag
$1,695


Chanel "Large Flap" Bag
$2,095