thoughts on style

Topshop Handbag, $170

Me with my new handbag. grey top: Madewell, black jeans: Forever 21, motorcycle boots: Frye

While I am normally a huge proponent of the "forever" bag, i.e., a Chanel, YSL, etc. bag that will outlast trends and stay by your side for ten years or more as an investment piece, I could not resist this perfectly trendy black leather bag from Topshop. For $170, it looks like a lot more than it costs. It's big and roomy (a huge plus for me, and anyone else who needs to carry magazines/books/laptops around for entertainment on the subway), has edgy stud details around the bottom and sides, and the quality of the leather is not too shabby either. It's no buttery lambskin or Alexander Wang "it" bag, mind you, but it looks like it could hold up for a few seasons or so. And with its rugged styling, it will look even better when it's worn in and all beat up.  My favorite bags seem to always show their wear anyway, so why not? Save the Chanel for dinner at the Four Seasons, wear this bad boy to brunch at Delicatessen after a night of partying.

To me, the Fall 09 Chloe print ads (photographed in the Sept issue of Vogue here) embody the chic, sophisticated spirit of fall fashion this season, without being inclined to the biker/rocker end of the spectrum that has become so popular with the fashion set. The Chloe girl is breezy, effortless, timeless, like a French Ralph Lauren.