Oh, Michael!

Expect the unexpected when it comes to Michael Kors's latest edition to the tote world. He introduced the Hamilton Frosted Large Jelly tote this year, and it is already deemed as one of the "IT" bags for 2012. 

Stepping aside from the traditional canvas tote, this bag is great for traveling, or just maintaining your city appeal. The longer chain strap keeps the handbag feel to a style we know so well. With all the great qualities of a handbag, including the double straps, Michael Kors ensures that the city lady can maintain her chic presence in the midst of her leather competitors. Priced at $268, a steal for Kors, you'll be sure to keep some extra cash inside of your tote and walk alongside the best of them. 

Text Kia Chenelle and Chistiana Greene

Image and Source Macy's 

Getting in the Wedge for Spring

This spring season shows that the hottest shoes for 2012 are wedges. They are sleek, fun, and chic, not to mention they are easy to dress up. These wedge sandals from Oscar de la Renta can be worn dressy or casual. A bold shoe of this magnitude can be worn as a "dress to impress" statement piece or for a coffee run. The multiple horizontal straps give them that edgy look that we strive for as fashionistas. We want to stand out, but of course we do not want to overkill.


We know what you're thinking: What jewelry or handbag would be most flattering for such a killer shoe? Go with bold jewelry pieces and a nice triangular-shaped tote bag. It is in the best interest for all fashion lovers to check out these additional accessories. After the jump, we have a triangular tote from Akris, a bold wooden style bracelet from Michael Kors, and the ultimate favorite (and definitely last but not least), a "bib" necklace from Aurelie Bidermann. These trendy pieces will leave the world wondering, "Who, what, when and where?"

That '70s Shoe

Let's take a moment to appreciate height and heft, because seriously stacked platforms are back! Swap out your warm winter boots for a pair of sky-high, chunky platforms, and prepare yourself for the 2012 spring season. These seventies-inspired shoes were quite popular back in the fall of 2011, especially among some of the most fashion-forward women who have walked the red carpet, like Sarah Jessica Parker and Kate Beckinsale, just to name a few. Now, renowned designers by the likes of Kenneth Cole, Mulberry, Nina Ricci, Michael Kors, and Charles David are bringing this trend into the limelight with vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and thick platform heels that are tall enough to make Lady Gaga proud.

Available in a chic assortment of designs, this trending footwear can be dressed up with your sexiest LBD or dressed down with a pair of your favorite jeans. Bold, versatile, and undeniably groovy, this fashion staple can suit almost anyone's personal style and is an absolute must-have for the fast approaching spring season.

Text Jasmine Song

Image and Source WWD

New Way to Shine on New Year's

Ah, New Year’s Eve, the one night it’s actually possible not to stand out in a sequined dress. But there is one way to set yourself apart in that sea of gold and glitter without shying away from shine: a brocade cocktail dress. This opulent fabric is making its move from your grandma’s couch to everyday wear, and it’s definitely taking on a new life in metallic patterns. Just try not to turn heads in Michael Kors’ black and gold Ocelot Brocade dress — a New Year’s dress you may actually be able to wear again in 2012 (and not just in the wee hours of January 1).

If you don’t want to dish out too much cash on a dress you’ll likely spill some bubbly on — or if you don’t trust Bergdorf Goodman’s express shipping policy — there are a few thriftier ways to do brocade. Try ModCloth’s crinkly bronze brocade dress or Aqua’s reptilian black brocade tube dress. And just because you’re not a walking disco ball doesn’t mean you can’t bling in the new year — there’s always makeup and accessories, too!

Text Kara Solarz
Image Refinery 29

Trend Alert: Ostrich-Embossed Bags

First leopard and now ostrich! Who can say no to ostrich-embossed bags and leather goods? Many handbag designers are taking note and constructing beautiful handbags in this gorgeous design. 

Not only do they come in great shapes, but the colors are also amazing and they add a pop of color to a lifeless winter wardrobe. 

Accessorize your outfit with Rebecca Minkoff's Ostrich M.A.C Clutch in Persimmon or Michael Kors Ostrich Embossed Saddle Bag in Electric Pink. 

Text Kia Chenelle and Christy Greene 

Image and Source Rebecca Minkoff

It's Only a Matter of Time

Watches are mechanical devices that are timeless staples (pun intended) in the world of fashion accessories. Watch bearers reap multiple benefits, as these wraparound gadgets not only tell time, but are also sure-fire tools to instantly accessorize an outfit. Over the years, watches have transformed from being strictly functional to becoming both functional and fashionable. Wearing an oversized men's watch was a booming trend, especially this past summer. From lustrous gold watches that sustain a refined aesthetic to colorful rubber watches that provide funk, all types of watches offer two things that make these timepieces worth your penny – quality workmanship and style. 

Check out some of our watch picks below the jump…

Tweed Trend for Fall/Winter

As the temperature begins to drop, adorn yourself with this casual classic. Tweed is the quintessential cozy cover up and, this season, it comes in varying textures and silhouettes. The iconic look bred by Coco Chanel herself can be replicated today with a tweed blazer and collared shirt.

For a perfectly polished look, pair a tweed skirt with a cropped leather jacket and booties. Sport a pair of tweed fitted trousers or a tweed pleated skirt with a light weight jacket in autumn hues. The tweed trend can be modernized by mixing textures, such as adding a fur stole, a scarf in vibrant prints, or a snakeskin clutch.

Text Tiffany Frasier
Image Vogue