BCBG Max Azria “Nasha” color-blocked dress
This off-the-runway piece makes my heart pitter-patter. That sexy neckline, pops of neon, shoulder cutouts, flowing skirt…sigh. So cool.
BCBG NorthPark, $598

7 For All Mankind cut-off shorts in Pink Whiskered
7′s summer collection is a throwback assortment with patchwork denim, metallic skinnies, and variety of printed jeans, like ikat, floral, and tribal. I’m in the market for the perfect cutoff shorts, though, and this pair is it.
7 For All Mankind NorthPark, $178

Christian Louboutin Lady Max spiked sandals
I’ve always loved spikes, chains, and anything else that says, “I’m a badass.” And then spikes saturated the trend market, and girl next door started wearing them, and it took the fun out of it. But these sandals could renew my love for the look. Subtle but wicked.
Barneys New York, $1,495

Lizzie Fortunado “Midnight Cruiser” tribal print iPad clutch
I love all the Lizzie Fortunado statement necklaces, but the leather collection of cross-bodies, satchels, and oversized clutches with the tribal print motif are equally wonderful.  I’d pair this with solid black attire (as per usual) and let the bag shine on its own.
V.O.D., $450

Amore & Sorvete Black Bouquet print and mesh cutout bustier one-piece swimsuit
I’m into the on-trend athletic, scuba-inspired swimwear this season, but I like this version, which veers to the sexy side (with a pinch of girly) with the sheer side panels and neon floral print.
asos.com, $259.19

Lanvin eagle belt
I love this belt paired with a feminine dress for the edgy-meets-ladylike look, but I’d throw it over just about anything for a bit of rock-and-roll flare.
lanvin.com, $2,150

Marc by Marc Jacobs ‘Packable’ Duffel Bag (photo courtesy of retailer)

D intern Blaine Mountain stumbled across this beauty of a gym bag at Nordstrom NorthPark and had to share:

When I read the opening pages to Rabbit, Run by John Updike, I cringe. I have trouble shaking the image of Rabbit Angstrom folding his “double breasted cocoa suit” jacket and resting it on an ashcan lid, despite the ashcan’s described cleanliness. A preferable safe haven for the coat would have been a sleek duffel like Marc by Marc Jacobs ‘Packable’ Duffel Bag, a cylindrical, polyester duffel bag, emblazoned by a red lining that soars across the top. The leather logo patch is subtle. The eight inch straps descend into two complimentary landscapes, a masculine army green which works quite well with the lavender grey.

Just because your man’s a gym rat, don’t let him hit the gym with a ratty bag. Pick this up for $80. –Blaine Mountain

photography by Kristin Hull

Get it while it’s hot. This red clutch from Urban Expressions is winnable. Enter here for your chance to become its new owner. Check out the inside view after the jump.

Clutches mingle by candlelight.

A close look at the “Mi Alma” wallet.

Susie’s sketches in her studio.

Design materials.

Part of Susie’s studio.

image by Charlotte Tobin

Okay, so Paris Hilton may not be the best fashion inspiration, but she’s known for sporting the latest and greatest in accessories. Fringe bags are on every celeb’s arm right now, and you can bet each one is at least in the higher hundreds range. I suggest you go snatch this Patricia Wolf version up (right) from The Gypsy Wagon for $128 right now.

photography by Sergio Garza

I want this painting.

Well, it’s not new. But new to me. If you, like I do, often make your way down Henderson and continually neglect this art shop, STOP. You’re making a mistake. It’s not full of stuffy, unaffordable art. It’s packed with local artists’ colorful, modern paintings (at decent prices), locally crafted jewelry (not crocheted hats, but really cool necklaces, cuffs, etc.), and vintage stuff, like patent ladylike handbags and decorative ashtrays.

Read the full review here and then go to the shop and buy this darn turquoise tea set.

CLICK TO JUMP FOR MORE PHOTOS. JUST DO IT.

The upstairs is so darling, you'll never want to leave. (photography by Sergio Garza)

Crystal necklace and vintage purse. (photography by Sergio Garza)

Bobby Schandra's new display at Assembly

Local handbag designer Bobby Schandra is hosting a shopping event with the girls from Where Wear in the City tomorrow night. Come for champagne and the latest designs from Schandra. Trade in any used handbag while you’re there, and you’ll get $50 to apply toward a new bag or watch. Used purses will be donated to Dress for Success and Attitudes and Attire. This great event is a win-win for everyone involved–drinkers, shoppers, designer, and philanthropists alike. 5:30 pm to 9 pm at Ashton Club House, 2215 Cedar Springs Rd.

The Avery bag, $65

Ashley Burghardt, 10 Most Beautiful Semi-Finalist and designer of Ashard Richley handbags, is having a sample sale this weekend. Make a stop at the Continental Gin Building downtown to find the all building’s artists displaying their wares. According to Ashley, she’s hosting a “blow out sample sale.” Go pick out your new winter bag. Snacks, cocktails, and live music will be part of the fun. Friday, Nov. 12 from 6 pm to 9 pm and Saturday, Nov. 13 from 1 pm to 6 pm.

Each clutch is hand-painted and original. (photography by Matthew Shelley)

Wendi McGowan, the designer of new Bolarti handbags, which launched in September, stopped in for a visit at D yesterday, and let me tell you, she’s as lovely as her colorful clutches. They’re priced at $295–a little steep for non-designer, I know–but here’s why you should add them to your shopping list.

Each bag is handcrafted. Wendi uses a knife to swipe acrylic paints onto each canvas purse. It’s then glazed to prevent damage and lined with silk.  Bags can be customized, too. Need a combo of colors you can’t find anywhere? She’ll put it together for you. If you’re not creative, there are 12 designs to choose from already. Lastly, if you make a purchase, you’ll be the proud owner of a very unique bag in the exclusive Bolarti family.

$995 vs. $35

When you get tired of me posting about the military trend, let me know. Until then, here’s another army-inspired piece to covet and to purchase. The Marni cross-body bag on the left goes for nearly $1,000. Instead, go to Unique Samples, which is only open until Saturday, and grab this purse, with a similar vibe, for an easy $35.