Bag Of The Week: Botkier James Hobo

imageOf course I love nearly all bags, but if we’re really getting down to business, the purses that get a serious “maybe-I’m-more-than-just-looking” double-take from me are ones that do something fresh and new aesthetically. For example, a couple months ago I was lovin’ this tie-dyed leather shopper (right?! Tie-dyed leather!), and this Botkier James Leather Hobo is blowin’ my mind in a similarly visually-impressive way. While it’s certainly all leather (like buttah), its distressed texture makes it look like denim! And not in a cheap 80s way either. Without any obnoxious zip-flies, patched pockets, or any actual denim, the antiqued illusion is totally chic. Of course, the site copy suggests that you wear it with denim leggings, but I think I’ll opt out of the jeggings (thanks for the tip though?) and rock it with just about anything else I already have in my closet!

What: the Botkier James Leather Hobo
Price: on sale for $476
Where to Buy: Bloomingdale’s
Who Found it: xgalexy was the first to add the Botkier James Hobo to the Hive.

Bring Back The Swingin’ 60’s Into Your Home!

imageHere in San Francisco, which was one of the most relevant places for the 1960’s radical movement, there is still strong evidence of this mod-style, crazy colorful, “flower power” time. Style from the 60’s is most easily recognized with strange, fluid shapes, or angular, geometric ones and whirls of bright colors. Things were proudly done in man-made materials like plastics and rubber, and aimed to look “futuristic” (which, for some reason, meant no arm rests and other convenient comforts). While the Swingin’ 60’s is an era that’s long gone, it’s easy to hark back to a few decades ago and bring the color and style back into your living space. A few simple home accents and accessories, like brightly colored, slick-surfaced furnishings, interestingly shaped lamps and lighting, and other brightly hued, 60’s-inspired items, is all it takes to give your home a radical vibe with a modern twist. Click on the slideshow to see a few of my favorite ways to bring the 60’s back into your home!

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Seashells On The Seashore … And On You!

imageUsing shells, either whole or just the shiny parts, is not a new concept when it comes to jewelry, but is a style that is constantly getting revamped. Shells are definitely reserved for the sunnier seasons like spring and summer because it invokes breezy, sun-filled days on the beach and give the wearer an air of nonchalant luxury. Sometimes, it’s just a single, shining pendant, while other accessories use shells for it’s shine and color, like on layered chains and charm bracelets. But no matter what, seashells are always a good look and adds immediate elegant whimsy to your ensembles. For simple shell accessories, try pairing it with a nautical color palette, like navy blues, whites and reds, or don a clustered bib necklace over a simple sundress. However you decide to style it, there’s no denying that shell accessories are feminine, versatile and just what the sunshine called for. Click on the slideshow to see my favorite shell jewelry for this season!

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Hot In The Hive: Stila Jewel Lip Glaze Trio

imageRunning out of places to wear your bling? The new lip glaze from Stila is made from a formula that contains real jewels! No joke — the three glosses in this set (only $32 for a $66 value!) include Stila’s “gem complex,” which contains diamond, emerald, jade, ruby, moonstone, rose quartz, sapphire, topaz, amethyst, amber, garnet, mother of pearl, and opal. Crazy, right? I totally gave up buying lipgloss for Lent (okay, not really… but I’ve been forcing myself to seriously cut back), but this trio is just too luxe to let pass me by. Plus, aside from that whole treasure trove of jewels packed in each tube, the gloss also contains moisturizing agents like mango seed butter and shea butter, so your lips won’t be left feeling rough and grainy like some other glitter-heavy formulas!

Price: $32
Who Found It: xgalexy was the first to add the Stila Jewel Lip Glaze Trio to the Hive.

Buzzworthy Deals from DJ Premium, Sephora, Tobi, and more!

imageFree skincare samples, denim sale, spring shopping…get clicking!

30% off everything at DJ Premium with code 1N9JF6 until midnight 4/1/10!

Get 10 FREE Skincare Samples at Sephora.com while supplies last.

Save up to 60% with an additional 25% off already reduced Anne Klein merchandise.

Denim Days at Tobi with 20% off with code DENIMDAYS. Ends midnight 3/31 at 11:59pm PST.

EXTRA 15% OFF entire site at Tee-Zone.com with code SPRING + free shipping. Ends 3/31!

15% Off ANY Alloy order with code A15CPN.

Shoe Of The Week: Report Signature Downey III Sandal

imageWhat shoe genius designed this beauty?? It’s kind of like a peep-toe pump, kind of like a cut-out ankle bootie. It’s kind of like a heeled sandal and kind of exotic, but classic at the same time. It’s kind of amazing and made by Report Signature. The Downey III Sandal is all the latest and hottest shoe trends all wrapped into one gorgeous, versatile, leg-elongating package. Plus, the splash of turquoise and gold snake skin gives it a pop of color and adds an air of exoticism. The crisp white leather is perfect for spring/summer, but doesn’t compete with the many trends already going on, giving the Downey III Sandal an elegant and luxe vibe. Pair it with linen pants or a mini-skirt for a breezily beautiful day ensemble. Or get the black with gold and silver version and strut your stuff for an sexy, edgy nighttime look!

What: the Downey III Sandals by Report Signature
Price: $209.00
Where to Buy: Revolveclothing.com
Who Found It: Idabone was the first to add the Downey III Sandals by Report Signature to the Hive.

Coral Spring Beauty: Give It A Glow!

imageWhether it’s a dusty pink hue, or as a bright pop of color, coral is showing up all over the place in the beauty world. Coral adds brightness and warmth to those that might be a little lacking in the melanin department, and gives warmer skin tones an instant glow. Sculpt cheeks and emphasis your decolletage with a sheer beige tinted coral powder, or add a punch or fun with a saturated coral lip gloss or nail polish. A surprisingly versatile hue that compliments numerous skin tones and colors, coral simply screams sunny days and windblown hair. Click on the slideshow to see the top ten coral beauty products to add some warmth to your complexion for the sunny Spring days ahead!

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Label Love: Madeleine Thompson Spring 2010

imageThis spring, adopt the look of laid back luxe with Madeleine Thompson’s new Spring 2010 collection of cashmere knits. Known for her high-quality knit wear, Thompson presents us with a group of soft cashmere essentials and layering pieces that are classic, feminine and a study in sophisticated leisure. Long, fluid lines, loose drapes and flattering separates define this beautiful new collection and are reminiscent of what you might pack for a luxurious weekend at the beach house. With comfortable and stylish lounge wear, versatile tanks and dresses and cozy, comfy wraps and cardigans, Madeleine Thompson has all you need for a fashionably fun and classically stylish Spring. Click on the slideshow to see some Madeleine Thompson Spring 2010 favorites!

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Stylehive’s Stylescopes Say You Should Lighten Up With A Spring Clutch!

imageSo far this spring, Stylehive’s Stylescopes has had their sights on lightweight scarves, fresh pops of color, and floral prints. Next on the stars stylish agenda? Season festive clutches! Yup, this week you’re destined to leave March’s heavy baggage behind you and pack light with nothing but your necessities. Sure, clutches aren’t exactly “hands-free” like your favorite clunky hobo, but their compact size will have you feeling free (and ease your shoulders!) as you take a load off and go lightweight this week! Not sure which style, shape or print you’re set to rock? Let fate decide! Virgos will have lots of pockets to store their tiny must-haves with this leafy-green Jerome Dreyfuss clutch, while Sagittarius ladies will go girlie in a pink fold-over bag. Take a look at the slideshow to see what kind of handheld handbag your sign should show off!

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Splash, Shimmy, & Sashay Your Way Into Spring With Karmaloop.com!

imageThe sun is shining and spring has sprung! And what better way to celebrate the coming of spring than to cop some new gear at Karmaloop? Ladies! You know the perfect way to transition from winter into spring is with layers. Karmaloop has the perfect slouchy tanks and adorable sundresses to add a little zing! to your winter wardrobe. Check out The Rain Drop Rose Dress by Insight, an Australia-based brand that’s been killing it worldwide when it comes to that effortless, beachy surf style. This dress is perfect with tights and a cardigan for those cooler climates and equally chic with bare legs and a pair of wedges (check out The Ember Shoe by one of our go to brands: Jeffrey Campbell!). Insight also has a new line of hot swimsuits in alternative styles than your average one piece! Check out The Vogue One Piece, the unique cut and detailing of this swimsuit goes against anyone who ever said one pieces weren’t sexy! Don’t forget to check back on Karmaloop.com for new spring arrivals everyday!

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