etsy love… handbag style

I do love a good handbag:). I can’t really explain why, but when I use a new one for the first time, I have a little spring in my step, a little extra confidence. The smoothness of the leather, the weight against my side… It’s irrational, I know, but I can’t help it! Partner that feeling with the joy I gain from supporting an independent designer and I’m in a win/win situation. Yet another reason why I love etsy. Take a moment to check out a few of the beauties I found and maybe splurge a little… just once;). Treat yourself!

Larch Oneshi Hybrid Bag by Valhalla, $309 – buy here

::

5 Pocket Willow Bag by Valhalla – Sadly just sold! (see more photos here)

::

Medium Larch Oneshi Hybrid Bag by Valhalla, $279 – buy here

::

Muriel Shopper by arebycdesign, $244 – buy here

::

Agatha Foldover by arebycdesign, $244 – buy here

::

Briefcase by jennyndesign, $226 – buy here

::

Traveler by jennyndesign, $48 – buy here

::

QUOTE Candy Carryall from However, $88 – buy here

::

Eco Friendly Tote Bag by Hoakon loves Helga, $98 – buy here

the wild unknown

It’s no secret that I’m a huge design*sponge follower. I’ve found so many amazing designers, DIY projects, and just general inspiration from the fab Grace Bonney, it’s hard to keep track. Last week’s weekly roundup featured the wild unknown, called out for the unique custom sketches and wedding prisms, hand-crafted by artist Kim Krans and certain to be the hit of any collection of summer wedding gifts.

The main page of the site quotes the following:

So I cut off my hair and rode straight away, to the wile unknown country where I could not go wrong. – Bob Dylan

Can’t really argue with a site that starts off on such a good note;).

I’m pining away for one of these, but will likely settle for gifting one to friends, soon to be married!

::

::

::

::

::

::

[all images from Kim Krans and the wild unknown]

L.L. Bean Signature

For what I imagine is the first time ever, I actually have an overwhelming desire to go on a L.L. Bean shopping spree. Well wait… I do recall desperately wanting one of those heavy blue sweaters with the white flecs back when I was 15 or so. It was the quintessential ski sweater that was all the rage back in the early 90s. So, since then I suppose. A few months ago, L.L. Bean introduced their Signature line… one that offers a little something for a younger (dare I say) more hip clientele. I’m still not sold on their version of skinny jeans, but I am impressed with a slew of the other pieces. Lead designer Alex Carlton [also of Rogues Gallery in Portland] has fashioned a collection that stays true to Maine without looking too ‘Maine’.  Styles have taken on more shape, with a slimmer, less boxy cut. These are styles that would work just as well on the sidewalks of the Lower East Side as they would at a seaside BBQ somewhere up the Maine coast.

I’ve been biding my time with this line. Keeping my eye out for sales and new additions. The initial launch held a few of my favorite lookbook items back and I’m happy to say that they’ve finally released them! I’ve got quite a wishlist going and while I can’t imagine I’ll manage to snatch all of these pieces up, I’ve got my eye on an extensive and fabulous selection.  Take a peek and act fast! Some of the items are limited edition!

::

::

Farnsworth Lawn Dress, $155 – buy here

::

Poplin Dress, $109 – buy here

::

Stretch Denim Blazer, $95.20 – buy here

::

Dobby Stripe Shirt Dress, $85 – buy here

::

Trench, $185 – buy here

::

Piped Wrap Dress, $71.20 – buy here

::

Oxford Cloth Jacket, $89 – buy here

::

Sidney Wrap Dress, $89 – buy here

::

Chambray Shirt Dress, $79 – buy here

::

Wood Bangle, $25 – buy here

::

Resin Bangle, $19 – buy here

::

Square Printed Scarf, $35 – buy here

::

Wood Ring Necklace, $65 – buy here

::

Rebecca Cork Wedge, $99 – buy here

::

Espadrille, $65 – buy here

::

A little press to keep you interested:

StyleList

GQ

Katy Elliot (check this blog out if you haven’t already!!)

Thread NY