J.Crew Biennial handbag (The American Princess)

J.Crew released their Biennial handbag and it looks like the American twin of the Modalu Pippa bag!

Pippa became a style icon overnight with her easy ladylike style and created a handbag craze by debuting the Modalu handbag (above) in several different colors. The handbag became so popular that Modalu renamed the bag "Pippa." Modalu also released new colors and the bag in different sizes.

But now, you can own a piece of the Pippa inspired bag in the Biennial by J.Crew.

From J.Crew:

We're head over heels for the perfect proportions of this luxe satchel. Crafted in supple pebbled leather, this sleek two-handle bag—a design team pick—has enough room for a mini laptop, your lipstick and even your little cashmere cardigan. It's just what we've always wanted: a can-do carryall with effortless elegance. Zip closure. Brass-finish hardware. Interior patch pocket. Cotton twill lining. Comes with dust bag. Import. 6" handle drop.

Compared to the more structured, briefcase-like feel of the Pippa, J.Crew's version is a bit more relaxed with "soft pebble leather." And, best of all? It fits a mini laptop (or iPad) -- a bag for work and play? Perfect.

At $348, I'm really pining for a bit of royalty in the red, especially when the Modalu has been sold out for months. What do you think?  Do you like the American version of the Pippa or is there no substitute for the real thing?

Not so Plain Jane

Is the era of the "it" bags over? Lately, I've seen a revival of structured vintage-inspired handbags. You know, the "classic" handbag as we know it: boxy, flip-over flap, hangs about waist-high... formally perceived as unimaginative?

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My preference for bags have always lean towards "slouchy." I love the young, hip and urbanite feel of a slouchy bag. I also love the low maintenance of it. I don't have to worry about wearing the bag facing "out," nor do I have to worry about making sure it's "set down" properly... I know it always looks great.  I do, however, hate having to dig through it. And that [frustration] is what brings me back to more structured formal handbags every time.

So, with our sunnier days numbered, now is the time to begin the search for the ladylike handbag to complement our more formal fall and winter wardrobe...

The Prada Glace Calfskin Degrade Top-Handle Bag ($2,050) comes in a gorgeous gradient leather (easy-to-match grey).  The interior is a soft beige suede and its dual handles offer versatility. It can be dressed up or down and best of all it's roomy! This handbag has a timeless style that will stay on trend for a few decades.

 

The Lanvin Lovely Leopold leather tote ($2,185) is a good blend of classic and modern. The hardware gives it enough "city tough" for it to be an easy day-to-night candidate. Overall a great modern handbag in the classic flap silhouette.

Lastly, my two favorites, which are wonderfully affordable:

 Coach's Court Bag 

$258

J.Crew Edie nubuck bag

$240

Yes, the original handbag is back.
Until one day when I'm dining al fresco under the California sun... I'll be a slouchy girl once more.

Which classic do you love?

J.Crew Desert Army

The J.Crew late summer/fall catalog arrived in the mail today and the theme for the spread was a desert army look.

My interest was piqued: the creative vision of J.Crew really astounded me.  How did a preppy-casual, semi-upscale brand translate their look into a desert adventure? I'd love to have been in that concepting meeting. Bold, bold move, Crew.

The overall cuts and shapes for the apparel were consistent with their current line (a-line skirts, lived-in shirts.. and of course, tons of layering). But, their new collection of handbags really stood out. The one above (Brompton Sachel) reminded me of a Speedy with shoulder straps. And this summer, I'm all about the shoulder straps.

I personally loved the Brompton purse because it offers a perfect blend of prepster geek with Cali casual.

Brompton Purse $278

(I'd wear it slightly higher than shown on the mannequin. ;)

J.Crew Bridal

J.Crew's bridal boutique opened up its doors today on 769 Madison Avenue, New York  The style of the salon is a combination of French and whimsical J.Crew.  In addition to the white dress, the store will carry cocktail, evening, bridesmaid dresses that take customers from rehearsal dinners to parties to the wedding itself and onto the honeymoon; it will also carry accessories (think bags, shoes, jewelery, lingerie..) for brides to be and their bridal parties.  Dresses run from $229 up to $3,500.

J. Crew Group president Tracy Gardner observes, "We're not fancy here. We're still J.Crew, but it's an elevated experience."

I'm Not Special

J.Crew sent me an "Insider Sale" email today.  It made me feel uber special and primed to shop... until I realized that this was a site-wide sale that everyone could partake in.

What the hell, J.Crew.  You've always had a soft spot in this capricious retail heart of mine. 

If you're interested in participating in the "Insider Sale" (Use code Summer), you can visit J.Crew.

Printed Bottoms

Found these floral bottoms in the J.Crew sale and they are just too cute!

 

Both skirts are now on sale!

Left: Sunshine peony pencil skirt  $98.00  now $64.99
Right: Watercolor garden pencil skirt  $110.00 now $69.99

 

Left:  Jacquard Wendy short $98.00 (not on sale... yet)

Right:  Flora paisley lily short $59.50 now $39.99

Printed bottoms instantly dresses up a white tee and make a bold statement. 
Would you wear these bold bottoms?

JCrew Sale

From now until March 12th, you can save an extra 30% off the J.Crew final sale (no returns, no exchanges).  Use code EXTRA30 at checkout and you get free shipping on orders over $150!

It always takes me forever to finalize my order with their no return/exchange policy, but the 30% off makes it worth it (it's the best discount J.Crew offers on sale items). 

Couple of favorites I picked up tonight:

 

left:  tulle blossom art tee / right:  boyfriend beach cardigan 

There were so many cute blouses and jackets, but few left in my size.
I also picked up some work sweaters and a couple shirts and sweaters for the birthday boy!