I am a handbag fanatic. There is no other way of saying it. Every season, and every day in between, I browse all my favorite online retailers looking for my next love. I definitely have my favorite brands, but I think I get even giddier and more excited when I see a design from a designer that I’ve never bought from, or better yet, a designer I haven’t purchased from in awhile. I love the sense of humor and joyfulness I’m seeing in this season’s designs. From trompe l’eoil to overinflated, these bags stood out to me and caught my eye.
Rich Textures
I have really been loving Fendi’s designs since Kim Jones took over. I’ve purchased four bags from Fendi over the last year, and it looks like there’s going to be a fifth!
This O-Lock Zipper in the tapestry fabric screams Fall-Winter season. Softer, more textured fabrics have a certain richness to them and also invite me to snuggle up. And that just seems perfect for the colder temps.
Sense Of Humor
Loewe is another brand I’ve been infatuated with. JW Anderson can do no wrong, imho. And his latest “inflated” accessories including this Flamenco Puffer Clutch in this gorgeous lipstick colorway makes me smile while simultaneously inspiring me to find a black power suit, slick back my hair and throw on some red vinyl lips a la Robert Palmer.
Dichotomy Of Styles
And another puffed up bag from Loewe is a must-have. This Goya style is more traditional, more ladylike and more prim than the Flamenco Clutch, so the dichotomy between the sporty puffiness and the traditional purse is really exaggerated. I love how unexpected it is.
“I don’t like to conform. The minute I feel things are getting too closed, I have to break through.”
Whimsical
Speaking of whimsy, I love this trompe l’eoil tote from Lanvin. Admittedly, I haven’t liked much from Lanvin since Alber Elbaz (RIP) left in 2015. Lanvin has since brought in a new Creative Director, Bruno Sialelli, and slowly I’ve started to see a reinvigoration in the brand.
An Upgrade
Bottega Veneta brought back the clutch and made it so fresh and new like we had never seen one before. Their pouch style clutch was so simple, yet we all fell under its spell. Its simple chicness spawned a lot of inspired designs, and I am loving this one from Mansur Gavriel…
maybe even more so than the BV pouch. Blasphemy, I know. The ruching along the top with the slight dip reminds me of some of my favorite camelback sofas and the acrylic chain adds that touch of whimsy.
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Great suggestions! I used to dislike the rose scent when I was younger but as I mature, I’ve started to appreciate it more and more. I’m down for it!
Xoxo
Thank you Dee!
Enjoyed this so much, along with the brand trip to NYC.
Thanks so much Julie!
Michele, your blog has helped me so much. Thank you. I am going through a traumatic experience right now, and your suggestions are resonating with me in a comforting way. I am enjoying your blog posts and hope to hear more life content. Again, thank you! One step at a time!
Thank you for the article. It is very inspirational.
I don’t know what to journal. I literally live such a boring life due to my chronic illness and chronic pain that I don’t know what to journal about. I don’t want to journal about my chronic conditions because that’s depressing to me. I literally just stopped writing here and looked up How To Journal lol. It actually was helpful, there are journal prompts. I do have goals, it’s just hard because of how I feel changes day to day and I can’t count on myself to feel physically well enough to do something each day that I get frustrated and depressed. It’s a lot for me to just do the dishes, take a shower, etc much less do something extra like start a YouTube channel or post more on ig. I’m lucky though, my husband is very supportive and he said just try to post once a week. And that’s what I’m going to try to do.
Thank you for listening <3 xo Charli
Wow Michele! I feel inspired now to start exercising. I used to always take exercise in school. When I moved to the US I took Physical Ed and realized most girls didn’t. I was kind of shocked. I don’t smoke anymore either! But I don’t like running on Rt.66. This Covid made me gain way too much. Moreover, I love to read. Thus the weight gain. Am not sure where to begin. If I had my way I’d have a private instructor. Hah! Any suggestions are always welcome. Thanks Michele.
It’s been in my wishlist for the past few weeks. It’s so unique and practical at the same time. I like how it doesn’t have the brand showing up everywhere, it’s more subtle. So beautiful ♥️
❤️ ❤️ ❤️
I love the highlighter. Its smooth and soft, not chalky or glittery. Looks natural too. Just lovely! My favorite is Moonlit (it’s the only one I’ve tried lol); I think it’s the best for my skin tone. Thank you for your review and comparisons. ♥️
Thanks so much Dee!
I went to the outdoor market at Bryant Park while I was in NY during November. I found a store that sold the most amazing candle. Twelve Nights by Fifth&Madison has become my favorite holiday candle. My new addiction for holidays.
Sounds wonderful – thank you for sharing Ellen!
Wow, I want to be at your house for Christmas. Just to meet you, and family.
Along, with the sensory overload! 😊😊❣️
I love candles too! I prefer fresher scents rather than holiday ones (some scents give me a migraine). Regardless, candles do change your mood, and the room’s atmosphere. Thank you for sharing your favorites for this season 🙂
Thanks Dee! -Michele
I’m glad you had a wonderful trip, Michele. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. I am also really enjoying your new website. I feel like we get to see another facet of you through your written posts. You’re the cool older sister I wish I had. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!
The trip looks and sounds fabulous. Did you go with a tour? Any suggestions or contacts for booking?
You look great and like you are having a wonderful time! Thanks so much for sharing.
I am so behind on your videos but I cannot wait to get caught up on Morocco! What an amazing trip and I really appreciate hearing what brings you comfort and joy upon returning home. There is nothing like home. Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your mom, husband, and Miss Butters! I cannot wait to check out your spreadsheet!
Thank you for sharing these amazing pictures. And your words of travel ! I’m excited you have come back. A comfort to me, and I know we haven’t met , but still getting excited for your posts, tik toks, etc. HAPPY THSNKSGIVING to you all. My Miss MONA (beagle) gives her best to Miss FUZZY BUTTERS. I also spend time with my 93 old mom , my daughter, my man and some some family. I have 10 other brothers and sisters. 🤨🤨😜they all live around. They are 4 here in Az looking forward to your posts ! Thanks Michele
What a lovely meditation on the joys of travel and of home. Thank you Michele for all you share with us. And thanks for the spreadsheet and the amazing discount!
I’m grateful for YOU, Michele, along with my other blessings. I think it’s so valuable that you remind us of that practice and part of what draws me to your vlog, in particular, is your honesty. May we all experience good health, passion and thankfulness!
So good to see you Michele! You look great on a camel!! Thanks so much for sharing your adventure(s) and thanks for the great spreadsheet. You always go the extra mile. Now I am off to look at your store sale! Love, Annette (Armonk, NY)
So enjoyed this post and also your candid vlog posts (been watching old ones)! Thanks
Quick note: link broken….when you click on the tom ford eyeshadow quad, the chanel lipstick link pops up.
Thank you so much!!
What a truly gorgeous site – such perfect design and calm look mixed with content that has your unique voice.
LOVING your new blog. Congratulations!!
Fabulous! Such a beautiful blog! Congratulations Michele! x Charli
I am so very excited for you ! I love the new logo , and I’m so excited for this sweatshirt. It’s so you ! Congratulations. Love you and I am so proud of you. Xo long time follower xo
This is just like you beautiful, sophisticated and fun.
Best wishes
Hi. Where can I see more photos of the shirt would love to purchase one
Thank you