Recently these bags arrived to the photo studio where I intern, and I felt as if someone had delivered a box of luxury sweets. The splendid colors! The sleek leather finish! In an instant, my mind flashed back to the trendy young women I’d read about in Meg Cabot’s books who always donned their chic Kate Spade New York handbags. This is what Meg must have been raving about.

Naturally I found myself collecting, even hoarding, the handbags to style for my test photos. In one hand I held the sweet lavender and savory magenta totes, with tones resembling the delicacies found inside a coffer of Ladurée macaroons. Either of these beauties can add exceptional femininity and playfulness to any summer ensemble, easily becoming a girly girl’s go-to accessory. In the other hand I clutched the sultry black tote, a bag that I instantly gravitated toward due to its malleable aesthetic, which can adapt to any outfit, day or night, all year round. With all the different ways a  Fashionista can wear these bags, it’s no wonder they make them in so many colors!

I styled the dark bag with the bright ones on either side and after a touch of photo magic (about an hour of lighting set-up) I made them look like they were dancing around in bag heaven. I would totally play with all the purses that come in to the studio, but what attracted me to these handbags was the way the designer achieved simple elegance without compromising fun. A mature girl should always make time for amusement.

Always Deviate,

Jen

 

Annette’s Date with Kate

On a scorching summer afternoon, Annette and I went for a walk with pieces from one of our favorite accessories designer, Kate Spade. Neighbors and their pets peered out their windows as Annette, toting her trinkets, stood in the middle of the street while I snapped some photos. It was awesome.

Summer is at its peak and most Fashionistas are excited to put on glamorous looks that won’t make them melt in the sun. By incorporating a variety of fun and flirty stand-out pieces, like these Kate Spade embellishments, you can create elegant looks for the office, catching up with pals or strolling with a lover, without feeling smothered.

Earlier in the afternoon, I sifted through tanks, tees and tiny shorts in search of a professional look, and came across a breezy orange-and-blue feather tank. We paired it with light jeans, perfect for your walk to class or work, and a blazing red jacket to throw on when you need to get down to business.

“Sometimes you don’t have to match, but you’re so stylish that it still looks good.”

We sneaked out a black KS tote from Annette’s mom’s closet, and after a debate about what shoes to wear (common among ladies our age, do not be alarmed), we settled on a pair of beige pumps with a little attitude.

Strong and successful. Sexy and sweet. This style hits all the marks necessary to get the collegiate ready for the big-girl days of summer.

To create an ensemble for something like grabbing a drink with friends, I paired a sheer white quarter-sleeve top from Francesca’s Collection with black, asymmetrical shorts and added some simple strap heels. Annette and I firmly agreed that the girl who dons this outfit definitely has her life in order, so we worked to make it look impeccably clean.

Then it was time to unleash the bows. Annette pinned on her KS bow earrings and hung a matching bow necklace to give the sleek look a sweet kick. We added a pop of color with a magenta cross-body bag (which doubles as the clutch seen here) and matched with posh pink lipstick.

As the season sizzles on, it’s important to establish the one outfit that makes jaws drop where ever you go. What better way to celebrate the white-hot nights of summer than in crisp and clean blanche?

We paired this dazzling white H&M dress with a neat Kate Spade metallic gold belt to make the hue even brighter. Annette strapped on cream heels, and I added a dash of summer fun with the magenta cross-body bag for a sophisticated and savvy touch.

It’s very simple to accomplish a variety of excellent looks with minimal accessories and statement pieces. Whether you want to show off your careerist side or keep it classy out on the town, all you have to do is put on something fun and light, remember your smile and add a little Kate to it.

Always Deviate,

Jen

Lady Kate

New York Fashion Week is in full swing, and it’s no surprise that designers are wowing style seekers left and right. Those of us who live through the lenses of the lucky front-rowers wait on the edges of our chairs for them to Tweet, Tumble and Gram their favorite looks. And we savor every second of it.

Kate Spade New York* caught my eye with the collection’s first look, a pair of pounding color blocks that scream “Bring it on, Fall!” The collection features Spade’s usual booming happiness with chipper blues, pretty pinks and, most notably, a Parisian under-tone that will have Audrey Hepburn adorers running for the flagship store.

Spade combined lady-like feathers with tailored pants, and glistening gems with office-appropriate skirts to let you know you don’t have to be dull to be dignified or respected. The girly girl in whimsical hues can be the boss too. And check out the glorious union of pearls, leopard and red satin!

Always Deviate,

Jen

*All photos courtesy of Style.com