Erica Weiner Jewelry - Cryptic Necklaces

Erica Weiner accessories have garnered much attention in NYC. Each piece is crafted from vintage pieces and designed by Erica Weiner and her business partner, Lindsay Salmon. The original parts gathered from random places around the world are what make these pieces timeless and rare.



Pair these accessories with a simple silk dress or an edgier ensemble like trousers and a vest.

Each piece ranges from roughly $20-110! Find any of these designs on the Erica Weiner Online Store or Bona Drag where you can purchase her stunning multi-faceted Herkimer ring for $100.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from erica weiner.

Mink Pink - Aussie Love

Mink Pink, a group of Aussie based designers, have focused on creating collections that encompass several of their trademark styles, vintage, street, and feminine chic. I love their fringed minis and soft, yet delicately rugged contours.




You can find Mink Pink in several US stores now as they focus on branching out internationally! Try looking for them on Urban Outfitters and Pixie Market!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Sophomore NYC - Don't Have to Be Boring in Basics!

Chrissie Miller's story began in 2003, designing original tees exclusively for her friends. She soon became the sole obsession of NYC boutiques and celebrities who took notice of her innate ability to create stylish basics. Her die-hard fans were spot on. So, without further adieu, Sophomore has officially introduced her fall basics collection.

I'm digging the scoop necked t-shirts and skirt tanks with buttons and zipper-age.



You'll find the rest of Chrissie's collection for sale on her own site or Bona Drag.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

The 2 Bandits

Ever gotten tired of wearing the same boots over and over again? The 2 Bandits have found a clever way to dress up your boots so you don't have to throw them into early retirement! Each "bandit" brings a unique attitude with their variety of pendants and ribbons.

Bandits go for roughly $68 a pair. Bring added versatility into your footwear!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

VerreEncore - Modern & Bold Jewelry

VerreEncore jewelry is handcrafted using the technique of infusing glass to metal, a process called enameling. The final product looks simple, yet bold. VerreEncore's designer focuses on creating imaginative pieces using beautiful colors and shapes. VerreEncore designs are available on Etsy and are $38.00 a piece!



XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Kate Moss Hearts TopShop

Kate Moss's Christmas 2008 Limited Edition Collection has been all the rave among women in the UK, selling out almost as quickly as they are listed online. Her original collection has also been noted as the fastest, top selling line that TopShop has ever introduced and I can completely understand why...just check these designs out!



Each piece pairs well with jeans on a casual day out or can easily transform into an evening look for a night around town.

Sure the economy might be heading into a long-winded recession, but it just means that the exchange rates might be in our favor for once!!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from topshop

Nicole Richie's House of Harlow Has Moved In!

We've all seen paparazzi images of Nicole Richie whizzing around town wearing pieces from her own jewelry collection. House of Harlow is finally in stores and available to all of us! Find House of Harlow accessories on sale at Kitson.

The jewelry is in your face wild so be prepared!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from kitson LA

Lakme India Fashion Week

I take great interest when Fashion Shows go international. Somehow it always turns out to be a pleasant surprise, given the different artistic perspectives, fabric use, color schemes and trends. Two fashion designers stood out for me this year, G Pia Fleming and Shane and Falguni. From the numerous images and points of view, I found one thing central to all their designs, their love for gold, intricate sequins and embroidery.


You always learn the most when you immerse yourself in other cultures!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from nymag

Kale Cross-Over Handbag

I just came across this Kale lambskin cross-over handbag on Bluefly that I absolutely adore!!

The fuchsia color is to die for, while the design is ultra mod chic.

This is the perfect day to day handbag to go along with your punchy outfits.

Oh, another plus, it's super affordable! The handbag is priced only at $285!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Leather Jackets

There's something about a leather jacket that holds a secret to a girl's heart. It's safe to assume that we occasionally like to entertain the idea of being a bit "bad-ass" or so-called adventurous There's no better way to express your rebellious self than with a leather coat, however, all of this can come with a steep price tag! Therefore, this week we're focused on finding reasonably priced, yet authentic & cool looking leather outerwear.

A couple of things to note when looking for your leather jacket:

• Faux Leather a no-no : Pleather is a cheap alternative, but definitely not favored.
• The Perfect Fit : A lot of things can go wrong with a leather jacket when it comes to fit. Avoid being a "wrapped sausage" or a "hanger". The ideal fit is having a little room to layer and just that.
• Coat Lining : A coat lining is always crucial to preserve the health of the jacket.
  

Enjoy our top 10 finds with a few tips:

• The "Bomber Jacket" - I love the look of a rough n' tough Bomber Jacket. It provides an edgy appeal to your overall ensemble.
• Distressed Leather - Some imperfections here and there give a nice rugged and cool appearance.
• High Collars - Having a high collar on a leather coat is highly unusual. However, if done right, it can accentuate & elongate your neck in a sleek & sexy manner.
• Play w. Colors - A leather coat doesn't always have to come in black. Try a few different color samples, like walnut or chocolate brown to warm up your fall wardrobe.
• Play on Looks - Some fringe, buttons, pockets, etc., can be a great way to differentiate your jacket.
  

Doma - $438

Doma - $480

Mackage - $594Mackage - $649

Ever - $715
Soia & Kyo - $375Mike & Chris - $695

Mike & Chris - $620

Madison Marcus - $659

Madewell - Leather Bomber $495

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Mackage - The Cold War Has Arrived

The idea of a "classic" coat is quite paradoxical in nature.

If you want a coat that outlasts the trends, then it usually means that it has to sacrifice in design. However, if you opt for the more expensive, less practical, trendy coat then it ends up collecting dust by the time next winter rolls around. It's a shame that we at Studio Purpura are a tad too greedy to settle on anything less than a coat that is eons above the rest in BOTH style and practicality.

Luckily, I came across Mackage’s new Fall Outerwear Collection and was pleased to discover that it really doesn’t have to be a choice between the two, or rather it can be both, in vogue or functional.

I love the idea of incorporating popped collars, Russian inspiration, and slender and graceful lines into their 2008 collection. These elements add a hint of high fashion and modernity, while still maintaining practicality and your wallet.






XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Holly Stalder - Lace, Tulle, & Ribbons

I made my rounds today on Etsy and came across Holly Stalder; a fashion designer specialized in creating antique silhouettes from scratch. Her entire collection is focused on accentuating the femininity of a woman. Holly incorporates lace, tulle, ribbons and ruffles to help achieve the delicate, ladylike style, just in time for the fall trends.



You'll have every reason to look beautiful in Holly's clothing.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

iWood - Literally & Figuratively

iWood jewelry and shades are constructed from sustainable, eco-friendly, and exotic wood. Each item is handcrafted in the US with imported hardware from Italy. Their products are durable, fashionable and high quality. iWood shades exude an air of trendy, retro taste and they have the selection to prove it! Choose from several designs, ranging from the aviator, the "Jackie O", or even "The Beatles", each for approximately $350.

iWood Style 4A2R Sunglasses

iWood Style 312 Sunglasses

The shades are customizable to your fit, prescription and have 100% UVA/UVB protection, to help protect your eyes from harmful rays. Choose one, I know iWood!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Steven Shein - Multi-Faceted Bangles

Steven Shein is all about creating fluorescent and oddly shaped accessories that pop.
These kaleidoscopic wooden bangles add the boldness that you'll need to glamorize your wardrobe. Layer them or wear them solo.

Shop for these Steven Shein bangles on PixieMarket. Each piece goes for $59.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Eskell Dahlia - Vintage Inspired Dresses

Muse for today - Eskell Dahlia's vintage inspired dresses. The patterns are stunning and the design's so very surreal. I can't imagine a better way to express romanticism...

Eskell Dahlia Dress

Lorrick Strapless Dress

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Reader's Tip - Lauren Moshi - Creative & Artful Tees

I wanted to dedicate this post to one of our favorite reader's, Miss CK, who has given us a slew of valuable fashion tips/ideas. I'd like to pass along one of her suggestions that was in response to a post of mine a couple of weeks ago on hand drawn, artfully constructed, funky tees.

Miss CK offered rave reviews for Lauren Moshi's cotton T-shirts and I couldn't agree more! The designs are offbeat and the lengths ideal for every body type!
Lauren Moshi Tees are available at Singer22 for $80 each. Go for the casual day to day or bombshell rocker look!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Madewell - New Fall Looks

Madewell has introduced yet another set of charming items for their fall line-up. I love the length of their knitwear, as well as the emphasis they've placed on plaid and striped elements. However, what I love most are their trendsetting accessories, the metallic oversize shoulder handbag, striped and sequined slouchy hat, and their selection of modish belts.



Add a dose of personality to your attire!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - I Need My Pants!

Pants are essentials for every season, but looking for the perfect pair can be an awfully daunting task. It's important to take a few things into consideration before shelling out your big G's...

1. Be weary of proportions - always maintain the law of thirds* when it comes to your body.
2. Fit, Fit, and Fit - no love handles, muffin tops please!
3. Find the pant that does your ass justice
4. Diversify the pant selection in your closet

I've come up with 10 unique selections that will you jump start your pant/trouser shopping process!

Here are some tips/ideas to get you focused on your bottoms:

1. The Rugged & Distressed Look to add rough boyish character
2. Pin Stripes for the Working Lady
3. Skinny Jeans to bring out the youth in you
4. Wide Legged Pants/Trousers for the Laid Back/Casual
5. Bold Colors
6. Detailing - Some metal studs to give that grunge vibe.

Current Elliott - The Boyfriend Jean in Love Destroyed - $229

Karen Zambos - Metallic Wide Legged Pant - $416


Ksubi - Super Skinny Zip - $149


Madewell - Denim Skinny Jean


Madewell - Widelegger Jean - $120

7 For All Mankind - Dojo Petite Jean - $149


Anlo - Kate Skinny - $202


Anlo - Liza Trouser - $207


Anlo - Mali Wide Trouser Leg - $192

Cartonnier - Straight Leg Pin Stripes -$128

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

* law of thirds - split your body into thirds. Upper body - 1/3, Lower Body - 2/3.
*images borrowed from linked online sites ie. Shopbop, NJC, Singer22, madewell1937, shopintuition, nordstrom.

FeatherBrain - Feathers in My Hair

Feathered accessories help accentuate the everyday look. Here's an affordable collection by FeatherBrain, where each hairband goes for $34.




XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Scarves with a Lil' Character

Tie dye hasn't been "in" since the 80s and we've gladly shelved the look in exchange for sleek ensembles. However, Sunshine & Shadow is bringing back its better half by including silky hand dyed scarves for their Fall 2008 accessories collection. It's delicately punchy and would go great with basics! Imagine the nostalgia.





Going for the grunge look? Cavern's scarf has grey and black half tones to bring out the mood and a gridded yellow print to give it edge. I'd wear this scarf with a pair of washed out gray skinny jeans.



A Peace Treaty's scarf wins out on color because there's plenty of it with shades of emerald, maraschino red, charcoal, plum, etc! I love the stripe detailing and country feel. Nothing on you has to speak louder than the scarf that you wear.






XOXO,

Studio Purpura