The Accessories Junkie

This past weekend, I was sitting in the car with one of my closest friends, when I pulled my trusty lavender Coach Sabrina satchel to my lap to dig out some lip balm. What she uttered to me next hit me straight in the heart: “Wow, that bag is starting to look seriously worn and discolored.” Oh em gee. I almost fainted. My purple satchel has been my go-to everyday handbag from the moment I bought it on major sale (thanks to a friendly discount) last year for my birthday. It was with me at the hospital when my nephews were born. It was by my side at almost every movie I’ve seen this past year. It was the perfect companion to my sundress I bought for my 3-year anniversary and my grandma’s 80th birthday. It was on my arm with every “omg, I love your bag” compliment I received. She (yes, she) was affectionately named “Coachie” by my boyfriend, as she was always the third wheel no matter where we went.

Sure, I’d noticed her handles were turning more off-white than purple with every passing day, and the corners had the signs of everyday wear, but I didn’t love her any less. However, I think it may be time to pack Coachie up in her dust bag after a good massage with leather conditioner, and commence hibernation and rehabilitation.

But alas, before I retire my beloved satchel for a few months for a good rest, I need a colorful replacement. And though I would love nothing more than the gorgeous Kristin leather satchel in blue green for the fall, $400 is a little above my budget at the moment. I picked 15 beautiful satchels and hobos under $250 (way closer to my budget), that could possibly fill the void of my current, or ideal bag. So, I need your help! Which one is your favorite, and why? Chime in, and help me buy my next bag!



Satchels at Bluefly
Hobos by J.Crew

Satchels by Coccinelle
Satchels at Nordstrom

Satchels by B. Makowsky
Satchels by Dooney & Bourke

As I mentioned yesterday, I have way too many favorite short necklaces under $25, that I needed a second installment. Whether you like silver, gold, both or lucite, any of these necklaces will no doubt put the finishing touch on any of your outfits.

Necklaces by Charlotte Russe
Necklaces by Stein & Blye

Necklaces by LOFT
Necklaces by Forever 21

For the past few weeks, I’ve been swamped with planning a massive event for my day job, and traveling. It feels like my last post was decades ago. Sad face. But I’m back…for a bit anyway, and so are my posts! I’ve decided to tackle chokers. No, not the black stretchy plastic variety you used to be able to buy at any Claire’s in a four pack, but beautiful 10″-12″ necklaces that bring all the attention to your face.

Now, I’m still a huge fan of long, carefree necklaces. I have been since I first spotted a long, silver heart locket at an H&M in NYC that I had to have during my summer internship years ago.That was before they were seen everywhere. Most people were taken by my locket that kissed the middle of my torso. But alas, I digress.

Lately, I’ve been taken by short, vibrant, show-stopping chokers. There is something so pristine, chic, elegant and…grown (I suppose that’s the right word) about them. They work perfectly for adding a flair to the simplest of t-shirts and the most professional of blazers. The key is to make sure they hit at least an inch above your neck line, and going earring-less, or pairing them with simple studs. A short statement necklace, with bejeweled chandelier earrings = super gaudy, which = a NO NO in my book. And because I couldn’t just pick a handful, this post will come in two installments.

And now, for some of my favorite pieces under $25.



Necklaces by Old Navy
Necklaces by Anthropologie

Necklaces by Arden B
Necklaces by Candies

It’s Friday! Oh, those glorious words…there are few phrases that universally get a “Hallelujah” response each, and every time it is uttered. Anyhow, enough rejoicing for the moment. It’s time for Katy Rose of Modly Chic blog’s Friend Friday questions. This topic is something I struggled with for a while when first starting my blog: conspicuous consumption. I’ll explain more below:

1. Do you think fashion blogs are often just conspicuous consumption?
To be honest, I’m not really even sure how to answer this question. So I’ll continue with the rest.

2. As bloggers do we have the obligation to explain our personal financial status, how we pay for the things we showcase, if we have debt, etc…
I don’t think anyone has the obligation to explain any of their finances. Obviously, I often find myself asking “How on earth do they afford those Marc Jacob shoes” or “Um, what kind of day job do they have to buy those Miu Mius?” But it’s none of my business. Now, if you want to be straight forward and tell everyone that you are either in an incredible amount of debt, or you make a killing at your job, you are more than welcome to divulge!

3. Critics often say that fashion bloggers should use their money to support more worthwhile causes than clothing themselves in a different outfit daily. What’s your reaction to this? (here you can reveal charities if you’d like.)
Im all for paying it forward, and giving money to good causes, or tithing at church, but there are plenty of women who buy just as much clothing as bloggers, they just don’t take photos of themselves and post them online. And, alot of times, bloggers get things on lend, or courtesy of a sponsor. I see a lot of my favorite fashion bloggers giving away things they get for free. Am I considered a charity?

4. Since you started blogging, do you spend more money on fashion and beauty products?
If I say no, I’d be completely lying. But I’m reigned in my spending as of late, and feel much better. The more blogs I read for a while, the more I wanted to buy. I’d justify my purchases by saying “it’s research.” I loaded up my credit cards foolishly, and am working hard to pay them back down. I have plenty to blog about without having to put myself in debt, and I think a lot of other bloggers do, as well.

5. Life is about more than what money can buy. What are the things that top your list of what life is all about?
Happiness, laughing, eating, joy, faith, my parents, my siblings, my gorgeous twin nephews, my Charles, my friends, adventures, cupcakes, love, and so much more!

Happy Friday all!

I came home yesterday after an intense day of work to a sigh of relief: the Urban Outfitters Fall Preview catalog. The only thing that could have made me happier was a new issue of Lucky, and the Anthropologie catalog – well, and maybe a big cup of Menchie’s with every topping under the sun. But alas, I will be patient. Anyhow, I was flipping through the rugged pages, taking in sharp breaths of excitement with every peak of a tweed blazer, or ruffle floral short/skirt thing or knee-high socks with boots. LOVE.

I promptly went online and picked out some of my favorite accessories to share with you! I was bummed, however, because in the catalog, the teardrop wedges in black were crimson, and I couldn’t find them online in anything but black or gray. Sad face. Alas, here are some of my picks.

1. Kimchi Blue Reptile Bag, $58
2. Cope Foldover Satchel, $48
3. UO Byzantine Ring, $24
4. UO Cascade Necklace, $28
5. UO Suede Pump, $48
6. Jeffrey Campbell Cutout Suede Platform Wedge, $128
7. Cooperative Teardrop Wedge, $48
8. BDG Wingtip Pump, $48

P.S. Don’t forget to scope out the poppies on the left. If you spot a real coach bag, click on it to win! Also, if you’re on twitter, don’t forget to tweet with hashtags #coachpoppy and #accessoriesjunkie to help me win prizes, and help yourself as well!

Not too long ago, I was at an event which required dressing up. Not necessarily to the 9s, but let’s call it….dressing up to the 7s. Follow me? I was decked out with my favorite Beverly Feldman peep-toe bejeweled pumps, my seriously blinged out chunky necklace, my silk grey wrap dress, and my blush and gold patent clutch.

I look over, and see a very lovely girl, in a sexy dress, fabulous platform pumps, hair softly tousled, and simple, yet perfect jewelry. As we were leaving, my opinion of her outfit did a 180. What could have possibly made me change my mind on her otherwise appropriate and fab outfit? Oh, just her horribly misplaced, uber-casual long strap shoulder bag. AGH! The horror!

Look, I have a rule, that was echoed almost word-for-word in a conversation I had with stylist to the stars, Johanna Laracuente recently. In both of our words: “A clutch is the only bag to be worn after 6 pm.” Obviously, this doesn’t necessarily apply for your usual Friday night hang-outs at the TGI Fridays, but when you find yourself wearing heels at night, only…ONLY a clutch should be paired with it.

So, I picked me favorite dozen phenomenal clutches under $50. I want every. single. one of them. From the classic envelope (which every stylish woman should have), to the super fun and funky blush feathers with snakeskin trim, there’s something for everyone. Don’t let a bad bag create a wardrobe casualty. Enjoy!

More Aldo...

I love bows. I mean, like, I really love them. I’m a girly girl to the extreme, so bows, ruffles, sparkles…all things feminine make me squeal like a teenie bopper at a Justin Bieber concert. And the cardiac arrest I occasional experience when I see the beautiful things Valentino does with bows and patent leather and jewels…I can’t continue for the sake of my health. Sigh.

Anyhow, I’m happy to report, that bows are going to be a big trend this coming fall. I know, you might be saying: “But AJ, aren’t bows always big in the fall, just like florals are big in spring, and the nautical look is huge in summer?” Well, yes, yes that is what I’m saying. And just because it’s hardly any surprise, doesn’t mean I’m any less thrilled!

Wear them with everything from wrap dresses, to cocktail dresses, to wide trousers with silk blouses. The key is to mix them with slightly harder elements to not look too doll-ish. Keep the majority of your look soft, but through in a heavy, multi-chain antique silver necklace!

And the great thing about these shoes is they aren’t fall-specific, like suede booties. You can wear them all year long, so start now! (Especially if you have a late summer wedding to attend!) Without further ado, here are my top picks under $100, in 2 parts (click around to check out the beauties for yourself.)

Evening Shoes by Nine West
Platforms by Alloy

Pumps by GUESS
Platforms by Nina

What do you think? Would you wear this trend, or do the bows make you feel 10 again?

I’ve been absent from Katy Rose’s Friend Friday for a few weeks now, but I’m back in the game! Anyhow, this week’s subject is about blogger privacy. If you’re a blogger, this is something that you’ve probably grappled with a few times. We want to divulge everything to our readers. Put a face to the words, show you our home decor, pictures of our loved ones, but where should we hold off? Anyhow, here are five questions about the subject, and please feel free to comment on where you draw the line on letting people into your personal life.

1. Do you think privacy is something we should worry about as bloggers?
Obviously, privacy on the internet is something that is of the utmost importance, but it’s so easy to forget about. As a blogger, were expected to share our opinions, and at times, our lives with our audience. But, I don’t know to what extend we should be terribly worried.

2. Do you use your real name or a pen name? What was behind that decision?
Well, I don’t really use any name. I’ve considered tying my name to my brand, to add a sense of personality, but for now, and maybe forever, you can all me AJ.

3. How much personal information do you reveal about your life beyond the blog?
I’d like to think I keep most things secret. I’ve maybe put up 3 photos of myself on the blog, and would like to put up more if I could get into the habit of carrying my camera around with me.

4. What will you never reveal?
Hmm, well, I know for now, I don’t plan on revealing where I work, specifically were I live, and the usual “Dont stalk me” information. Not that I’m legitimately scared that someone plans on stalking me (unless you want a crack at my shoe closet or accessories chest), just saying.

5. As bloggers, we have to an extent made ourselves ‘public’ figures. But still there are things that are intimate to each of us that does not need to be known by anyone that stumbles across our blog. How do you determine what is appropriate for public consumption and what is private to you?
I think this is something I determine as I go. Sometimes, I want to show you guys everything, because I respect your opinions and comments, and love to hear from you! But if I wouldn’t share something with a complete strange on the street, then I probably wouldn’t put it on my blog.

Photo: From my darling at the Botanical Gardens

So, I’m unbelievably late in posting this Key Lime Pie recipe that I made during 4th of July weekend. My BF had been hinting to me that he’d been craving some key lime pie, all while insisting that a store bought one was just fine. If there is something I love as much as shoes, handbags and jewelry, it’s cooking and baking. Store bought? Absolutely not! So, I scoured my iPhone Epicurious app for a recipe with awesome reviews, and used this one. However, I went with a different crust. This almond crust was definitely the star of the dessert show, and recommend using it, instead of the crust in the pie recipe. It was delicious! Now, for some special instructions.

A cute apron is always essential to proper baking. Duh. Btw, in case you aren’t sure what key limes are, they are much smaller than traditional limes, and much tarter, so it’s kind of essential you find the key variety. I bought mine at the Super Target in a 1 pound bag for about $3, and used a little more than half the bag. (Note: to get more juice out of the little guys, roll them firmly on a hard surface to develop the liquid inside.)

The recipe calls for blanched almonds. I did nothing more than buy a container of natural almonds, placed them in a single layer on a cookie sheet, and stuck them in the oven for just a few minutes to lightly toast. This is crucial to getting that awesome nutty flavor in the crust. It develops the oils in the almonds, so don’t forget! Also, let them cool completely before grinding. You want almond crumbles, not almond butter.

A note on the blueberry compote. I used fresh blueberries, as I couldn’t find huckleberries. Also, the recipe calls for an INSANE amount of sugar in this and the passion fruit coulee. I’d recommend starting with just 1-2 tablespoons, and adding some more later if you want it sweeter. I have a boulder of a sweet tooth, and this was just too much to handle. Oh yeah, and you might want to start with making these two toppings BEFORE you do anything with the pie, because they need to cool for a while. The passionfruit coulee will get a skin in the fridge as it cools, but can be easily removed. I put it in a small squirt bottle for drizzling on the plate as it is also outrageously sweet (again, do yourself a favor and reduce the sugar.) Also, I couldn’t find any vanilla beans, and just substituted for a little bit of high quality vanilla extract. Worked just fine. 

There is simply no better dress-up-to-go-out-at-night  or wedding-or-formal-party shoe than an embellished high heel sandal. Nothing [period] Better [period]

So, with that said, it should come as no surprise that these marvelously blinged-out Giuseppe Zanotti sandals are seriously on my “lust list.” But, it should also be no surprise that $1,075 is simply beyond my recessionista budget.

Luckily, however, I stumbled across these SM Luxe sandals that have the same feel to them. The Giuseppe Zanotti’s are leather, and the SM Luxe’s are satin, but the bejeweled facets, and the zipper back make them pretty similar, and at $80 at that!

Which do you prefer? Would you take the steal, or go for the splurge?