Vivien Cheng - Revamped Vintage Handbags

Vivien Cheng, the mastermind behind all these revamped hand-painted vintage one-of-a-kind handbags from $185-$375. We love them!!



XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Trend Alert: Feathers, Metallics or Fringe

Folk Tail Feathers, Grunge Metallica and Native American Fringe are all the rave right now. Here are a few editorial picks out of each trend-setting category!

• Feathers: {Left to Right; Top to Bottom} URBN, Feather Earrings; Pluma, Headband; J.Crew, Babette Shoes; Alberta Feretti, Belt.
• Metallic: {Left to Right; Top to Bottom} Dannijo, Bracelet; Lauren Merkin, Metallic Clutch; Camilla Skovgaard, Metallic High Heel Sandle; Vera Wang, Metallic Strapless Dress.
• Fringe: {Left to Right; Top to Bottom} Minnetonka, Fringed Boot; Arden B., Fringed Drop Earrings; 7forallmankind, Handbag; Alex & Ani, Necklace.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Mctega = Chemistry + Jewelry

Happy Thanksgiving my dearest readers! I never had a knack for Chemistry, but these two girls do...and they have a desire for fashion too..who knew that two completely different ends of the spectrum could yield these natural wonders. Here's, mctega!


XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Mctega jewelry is priced between $92-$325 and you can buy it directly on their site!

photo credits: mctega

The Sartorialist - A Picture is Worth A Thousand Words

I never grow old with people who provide me with endless inspiration. Especially, real people. Scott Schuman, creator of The Sartorialist, has won me over with his successful attempts at capturing real and everyday fashion savvy people around the world.

It's true what they say: "A picture is worth a thousand words." From Rio, Paris, Moscow these girls have left their story and ever since, I've been hooked.


What inspires you?

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Photo Credits: The Sartorialist

Rory Beca - The Fashion Dreamer

Rory Edelman, Founder of Rory Beca began her journey into fashion with a Summer program at St. Martins in London. She quickly realized that fashion design was her calling. After a few fashion insiders recognized Rory's innate talent for fashion design, they ensured that she had enough support to start her own line! In just one year, Rory Beca created several lifestyle pieces that have gained domestic and international acclaim. She draws inspiration from everything around her including travels, fine art, etc. She experiments with different fabric, ie. silk charmeusse, chiffon, etc.

Here is the Rory Beca Spring 2009 Lookbook. Feel free to check out her own online site for more of her collections! All her looks are aesthetically pleasing!



Are you digging the Rory Beca Collection?

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Little Black Dresses

Whether it be a company endorsed function or a personal party for the holiday's, a gorgeous look is of utmost importance. Therefore, this week, we're focused on finding 10 black dresses (for versatility's sake) that will help you make your grand entrance of the night.

A few things to keep in mind when choosing your dress:

• Appropriateness - Recognize levels of appropriateness when choosing your dress. For the workplace scenario, opt for a dress that is not over the top, but does not stifle your individuality. No excessive cleavage, or legs, etc.
  
• Fit and Comfort - Parties mean dancing or at least an occasional hoopla, so make sure you feel comfortable in your dress, meaning, no tugging, etc. Choose a dress that you can readily move in. If you're wearing a strapless dress, there are ways to keep your dress up. Try Hollywood Fashion Tape.

A few trends to look out for so you look trendy and chic:

• Ruffles - Originally introduced during the Victorian era, ruffles are the new fashion statement.
  
• Lace - If your style begs more femininity, then the delicate and ladylike nature of lace would appeal to you.
  
• Embellishment - Details never go unnoticed.
  
• Sparkle - Glitz has always been the best way to glamorize.

YAYA AFLALO Constance Dress - $385

Shoshanna Metallic Stars Strapless Bubble Dress - $380

Sretsis - Raindrop Dress - $181 (on sale)


Opening Ceremony - Sunburst Pleated Dress - $285

Milly - Flounce Hem Dress - $430

Forever 21 - Sassy Sequin & Mesh Dress - $27.80


FCUK - Wonder Dress - $164

Anthropologie - Shadow Canopy Dress - $188

Alice + Olivia - $588

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Ruffle Dress - $394

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

photo credits: shopbop, bloomingdales, acrimony, forever21, anthropologie.

Ready Made Ensemble - Casual Aristocrat

Classy Casual Feminista by studiopurpura

If you want to look and feel casual, you need not forgo elegance or class. Check out this ready made ensemble inspired by a euro-aristocratic feel. This look comprises of neutral to warm colors, cotton basics and hints of gold to help set a subtle, but polished look.

To achieve this look, focus on a few key pieces that will help refine your selection:

• Pick a solid colored cotton basic with a few subtle details (Eg: Mayle Tank - $195)
• Pair a Fitted, Cropped Wool Coat having trench coat like properties.
• Choose a casual and rugged pair of jeans (Eg: Current Elliott - $208)
  
• Accent your outfit with delicate gold necklace, earring duo (Eg: Erica Weiner Jewelry), an intricate warm colored handbag and a ladylike pair of shoes (Eg: J.Crew shoes).
• Finish it off with a nice rouge lipstick, light blush to enhance your femininity.

How would you create the Casual Aristocratic look? Do share!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

What I Want ASAP - Jill Stuart Tabitha Bag

There's one handbag that I love; the Jill Stuart Tabitha Bag! The Tabitha Bag can be worn as a clutch or cross-over handbag. It's marigold yellow, a perfect color to reminisce summer. The handbag comes in two other colors, black and maroon, with plenty of pockets.

The handbag is only $298, so you'll be sure to keep your checking account afloat.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

photo credits: Shopbop

Sara Sheperd - Winter Wonderland

When there's a chance to support local designers, I'm all for it. Sara Sheperd, a Brit girl turned San Franciscan launched her debut collection in 2007 and has since caught the attention of several notable fashion editorial publications, like WWD.

Sara Sheperd takes inspiration from her British roots and American lifestyle to create signature designs. Check out her Spring/Summer 2009 Lookbook and also her snow white winter collection!



Find her collections at select SF stores.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

photo credits: Sara Sheperd

Dorothy Lee - Holiday + Fall 2008 Lookbook

Dorothy Lee just launched her Holiday 2008 Collection with tons of retro-chic wear! As much as this season is about flaunting bold colors and statement pieces, I'm basking in Lee's subtle color palette and her use of delicate knits. The old adage holds true, "less is more," yet again.


Find your cute holiday look on Revolve Clothing. They have the largest Dorothy Lee Collection!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Photo Credits: Dorothy Lee

Headbands by Pas Comme les Moutons

Mesmerized by Pas Comme Les Moutons gaudy, yet gorgeous headbands! Her headbands were featured in NYMag and are now on sale at Owl's Lab. It's a fab gift for under $100 to buy for your fashionista sister or bff this holiday!



XOXO,
Studio Purpura

photo credit: pas comme les moutons

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2008

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, this year, at the newly renovated Fontainebleau Hotel was a complete success! We saw supermodels, Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, and Heidi Klum strut their stuff on the elaborate and elegant runway! The highlight of the show was definitely the $5 Million, 1,500 carat Victoria's Secret bra worn by Alessandra Ambrosio.


Aren't they just gorgeous?

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Photo Credits: NYMag

Tucker by Gaby Basora - Silky Smooth

Gaby Basora knows what a beautiful dress and shirt looks like because she created these marvels. It’s through her creativity that she grew her collection from one simple silhouette to eighteen different key pieces.

She constructs delicate, silky, feminine collections with sophisticated patterns. There you go, I've proclaimed my love for Tucker. Gaby has only one variation of her blouse available for purchase, but she will be updating with more soon! If you really can't wait, here is a list of Tucker Retailers!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Fall Cardigans

When it comes to cardigans, every lady can boast of owning at least one. Cardigan's have become an essential wardrobe item because of their practicality and versatility. It's a piece that plays a multifunctional role in your day to day ensemble; you can dress it up, down or to go out!

So, this week's top 10 editorial pick is dedicated to the ever so lovely and utilitarian cardigan! After having scoured for a few hours across multiple stores, I've found 10 stylish cardigan looks.

A few trends to look out for when purchasing your next cardigan:

• Experimental Color Palettes: This fall season has been one that has focused on fresh, new, never tried before colors! If you're feeling a bit more daring than usual, try a fresh bold fuchsia, cobalt blue or marigold yellow.
• Long or Cropped Cardi's - Cardigans used to be simple and plain, but several designers' are trying different lengths that have the potential to flatter any figure.
  
• Embroidery - Try a cardigan with some gathered flowers (like the Free People cardigan below) or sequined embellishment to pair with a tank.

When you find your cardigan, here are some fashion nightmares to avoid:

• Layering - If you have a slightly more ornate cardigan, don't overdue the patterns and designs on the layers underneath. Aim for a solid and light color tank, simple blouse or t-shirt to ensure that the attention remains on the outside.
  
• Cardigan Fit - If you're petite, avoid a cardigan that falls below the waistline. If you're tall, avoid a cardigan that fails to hit your waistline and over.

J.Crew Pima V Neck Cotton Cardigan - $59.99

Free People - Tangled Vines Cardigan - $88


Falls - A-Line Capelet With Belt - $120

BCBG - Deep V Neck Cardigan - $49

Long Ribbed Textured Wool Cardigan - $175

Midnight Sun Intarsia Cardigan - $78

Coincidence & Chance Sequin Plumage Cardigan - $98


Abaete Anly Cardigan in Navy Stripe - $355

Catherine Malandrino - Starburst Cardigan - $276.50


Theory - Ange New Cashmere Cardigan - $137.90

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Photo Credits: Free People, J.Crew, Saks, BCBG, ShopBop.

Prada - Special Stones

Prada is launching an all new affordable handbag collection called, Prada Special Stones. Each item will retail just under $1000. Okay, it still isn't what we call "a drop in the bucket", but it's still a reasonable price tag for what you get!


XOXO,
Studio Purpura

photo credits: Prada

Mayle - Hidden Gem in NYC

I was fortunate enough to come across a delicate boutique during my trip to NYC last spring. The store gave me comfort in knowing that not all designers in NYC had gone along with mainstream fashion. Mayle stood among a few boutiques tucked away on Elizabeth Street. I distinctly remember taking a deep breath, feeling that I had finally found a store worth my undivided attention. I looked through everything Mayle had and fell in love with an ivory and black trimmed crossover bag. I bought the bag in sheer happiness and have since then been a huge fan! Enough of my own story; Mayle's Holiday 2008 Collection is now available for view.


However, according to the recent WMagazine, Mayle is thinking of closing its doors indefinitely! What a sad world we live in! Until then, please find some time to stop by or purchase your statement pieces online! You won't regret it!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Secrets of Charm - Spring/Summer 2009 Lookbook

Sharon and Estee Elkayam, drew inspiration from their grandmother's sense of style to help develop a fashion line in 2004 called, "Secrets of Charm." Secrets of Charm has since taken the fashion world by storm with their vintage inspired sillhouettes, multi-toned patterns and fabric.

The Secrets of Charm Spring/Summer 2009 Lookbook has been publicised and is now available for view on their site.

..and just for curiosities sake, here are a few designs from the Fall 2008 Lookbook!



If you want to purchase from their collection, ShopBop, has most of their new Spring 2009 designs.

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from Secrets of Charm

OhdeCologne - Floral Printed Dresses

If you watch "Stylista", you'll notice a familiar face in these photos. It's Cologne Schmidt, founder and designer of OhdeCologne. She's one out of 11 contestants on the new hit reality television show that compete for the highly coveted editorial position at Elle Magazine. In doing so, she successfully demonstrates her perspective, eye for style and a passion for fashion. Cologne also reveals these qualities through her own vintage inspired, floral and flirty dresses and ingenious jewelry designs.

Her dainty dresses go for $189 to $229 and charming jewelry for $86 each, respectively!

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from ohdecologne.

MoovBoots = UGGs + Wellies

UGGs took the world by storm with their uniquely comfortable and warm sheepskin boots. I personally bought two pairs because I could not imagine going anywhere without them. However, there were occasions where my UGGs would get wet while walking in heavy rain and my Hunters were a bit chilly to the touch. Thankfully, MoovBoot founders, Meisha Strykowski and Bryony Proctor, went through the same thought process before inventing a compromise between the two brands. MoovBoots, a remarkable fusion between the Wellie and UGG is more than a dream come true!

Rococo

Alice

Purchase them on their official site for $125-$180 each pair!

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

Jules Smith Designs - Charm Bracelets

Call it nostalgia for the 80s, but I'm crazy about these neon vintage charmed bracelets designed by Jules Smith.

They're cute, funky and are meant for stacking.

Madonna began the fad in her heyday and we're going to keep it going!

You can purchase this bracelet for $60 (for a pack of 6). Find more charmed accessories on Jules Smith's site.

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Brrr...Jackets

The weather has been a little unpredictable lately with its bouts of periodic rain and sunshine. It's time to hunt for heavier jackets to help manage the winter chill. I have taken the liberty to find ten winter jackets that will make you feel warm and look chic. Here are a few pointers and trends to look out for on your next purchase of a jacket.

Stylistic Nightmares to keep in mind:

• Too much of a Good thing - Bold patterns on a jacket can be a good thing, but going overboard can draw unnecessary attention. Avoid over embellishment of flowers, etc.
  
• Slim Fit not Tight Fit - Having an intentionally over-sized coat does not work for everyone. A slim fit can highlight or flatter your figure and can avoid risk of looking clumpy.

Trends to act on for this Winter:

• Cropped Coats - Sentences are best kept short and sweet, so are jackets this season!
• Plaid Patterns - Just when you thought the fad was on the out, it's back and with a vengeance. Plaid patterns give an extra sense of warmth.
  
• Navy Inspired Jackets - Some fit, structure and contrast piping has always been a good reason to drool over.
• Lengthy Wool Capes - An old English style that will always remain elegant.

publicka - $422

Minimum - $279

Madewell - $245

Mackage - $649

Mackage - $583

Lauren Moffet - $440

Elizabeth James - $465

Anthropologie - $178

Abercrombie & Fitch - $260

Whitley Kros - $246

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

*images borrowed from shopbop, oaknyc, madewell, mackage, pixiemarket, anthropologie