Summer Style with Alex and Alexa {Part 1}

Neiman Marcus Fall SALES! 11/3-11/17

Halston Heritage Long Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater, $177 // Rebecca Minkoff Moto Leather Satchel, $268 // Alexa Chung for AG Button-Front Denim Skirt, $124 // Kate Spade New York Lia Grommet Studded Pump, $262 // Velvet Draped Front Poncho, $154 // Rag & Bone Beckett High-Rise Bell-Bottom Jeans, $138 // Tory Burch Reva Patent Leather Ballet Flat, $164


Milly Couture Tweed Pencil Skirt, $147 // Rebecca Minkoff Love Animal Print Calf-Hair Crossbody Bag, $273 // Diane Von Furstenberg Leyah Midnight Kiss Silk Dress, $286 // Frye Wyatt Leather Harness Ankle Boot, $223.50 // FRAME Culver Le Skinny De Jeanne Skinny Jeans, $139 // Cusp by Neiman Marcus Fringe Hem Leather Pencil Skirt, $216 // Tory Burch Canvas Cap-Toe Espadrille, $94 // ZAC Zac Posen Eartha Mini Crossbody Leather Bag, $270 // Kooba Jonnie Mini Crossbody Bag, $166

Other Upcoming Neiman Marcus Sales this month:
11/3-11/17 Up to 50% off Better Apparel
11/9-11/10 Extra 30% off Online Clearance (up to 70% off Regular Price)
11/10-11/11 $50 off $200 or $100 off $400
11/11-11/15 Tiered Gift Card

Thanks to Neiman Marcus and ShopAtHome.com for sponsoring today's post!

Designer Finds // on MAJOR Sale!

Missoni Lightweight Zigzag Knit Poncho {$225 $144 + FREE SHIPPING} // Kenzo New Tiger-Head Silk Scarf {$285 $155.20 + FREE SHIPPING} // Kate Spade New York cyber cheetah sweatshirt {$148 $70.40 + FREE SHIPPING} // Michael Kors Mid-Size Channing Rose Golden Stainless Steel Three-Hand Watch {$250 $140 + FREE SHIPPING} // Jimmy Choo Abel Metallic Snake-Print Leather Point-Toe Pump {$595 $332.80 + FREE SHIPPING} // Urban Originals Avoca Fringe-Trimmed Faux-Leather Shoulder Bag {$110 $58.40 + FREE SHIPPING}

Designer Spotlight: Samantha Wills

{Interview With K A S New York}

How long have you been designing clothes?
I launched KAS New York in 2007 prior to that I was designing for others.

What made you want to become a fashion designer?
My mother, Sabby Anand, she is a self taught and living inspiration, everything I have learned is from here [sic], and anything that’s remaining I tell her she hasn’t taught me yet.

Where do you draw inspiration from when designing your collections?
My inspirations are from my muse, all woman are so beautiful and it always amazes me that regardless of the light and color they are always so strong and bold.

The fashion industry is extremely competitive, what do you think separates KAS New York from other designers out there?
Having my figure [sic] on the pulse, she is ever changing and if you are not willing to adapt and learn from your mistakes your [sic] wont [sic] survive.

Who are your top three favorite fashion designers and why?
I appreciate everyone current and past, there are so many right answers, and as a student of the game I feel I can learn from everyone, Karl is the ultimate showman/presenter, Ralph is absolutely brilliant marketing magician turning a tie into a fashion empire and polo horse into iconic symbol of American fashion, Marc, Jacobs that is, an absolute machine creating more collections than some have silhouettes, for perseverance and self-belief everyone should look at the life of Yves Laurent, one of the game’s best ever, who had a massive fall after being hand picked by Christian Dior, and he didn't return to glory until many, many years later, and we shouldn't end this conversation without mentioning Coco Chanel’s entrepreneurship and tailoring off course.

What is your favorite piece in your Spring 2013 collection?
My Topaz Mini.

What type of woman do you envision wearing your pieces?
Everyone, the pieces are crafted to make women feel confident, and also let them enjoy their ride.

What are some of the top trends you see for Spring and Summer 2013?
Haha, its is so funny you ask this, bc [sic] I am now wearing my holiday / resort 2014 hat, I cant even think of S/S 2013, that’s the great thing about fashion its always changing and you are only as good or bad as your last season. But if you want to see trends from S/S make sure you stay on top of the KAS Trend Reports.

What do you think is going to be hot for Fall 2013?
Masculine influences, layering, tailoring, moto jackets, monochromatic b/w [sic] but with the color spectrum of cobalt.

What is your proudest fashion designing moment thus far?
There have been a [sic] many fun moment but, having Malia Obama wear KAS at the first Inauguration Concert definitely comes to mind.

In 2009 you created a capsule collection for kids, do you think you will ever branch out and design menswear?
One thing I learned is never say never in this industry.

Much of your collection involves bright colors, mix of textures, and great prints. Do your designs reflect your own personal style? What's your go-to day-to-day outfit?
Absolutely not, I am very simple, black shirt, Jeans [sic], and always a Red Turban.

I love your "3 F's!" "Having Fun, being Fashionable and not spending a Fortune!" How important is it for you to design clothing that is not only fashionable and on-trend, but easy on a woman's wallet?
Its [sic] what I started KAS New York with and each collection we keep true to the [sic] our core.

I love how versatile your pieces are! What are some of your style tips for styling some of your pieces from day to night?
Every woman has her own energy and my styles are to complement the woman. The same dress worn by an older woman with a sport coat, tights and heels for the sophisticated look, but when her daughter would wear it with our moto jacket, some fun accessories [sic] for an edgy feel.


Thanks so much to the entire KAS New York team for allowing me to style this gorgeous dress on my two recent posts: 1 Dress 4 Ways {Part 1: Dressy} & 1 Dress 4 Ways {Part 2: Casual}
And for the chance to interview such a talented designer, Kirat Anand!



Check out some of my fave KAS New York pieces!

Blair Ritchey Q&A + Giveaway! {CLOSED}

*Giveaway is Now Closed.open Worldwide!

Hey loves! It's time for another giveaway and I have been super excited to debut this one because not only is this designer extremely talented, but she is super gorg and incredibly sweet! Blair Ritchey's handbags have definitely made their mark in the blogging world, being featured on some of my fave blogs: a fashion love affair, Devon Rachel, Yola Thorp, & The Doctor's Closet (just to name a handful)!! Her handbags range from chic clutches with tassels (The Lulu), functional clutches that fold (LuLu Foldover) , classic envelope clutches, sunglass cases, and her latest creation: The Kanter. Check out my fun little interview I was able to do with sweet Blair, and then enter for your chance to win The Kanter in either black, mint, or fushia!




Q: I was really inspired by you when I read in your "About" section on your website that you originally went to school for Psychology because you felt it was a more traditional route. However, you couldn't deny your love for fashion, and so later you interned with various designers in NY. It's inspiring because you followed your passion, and started a brand of your own! Were you afraid when you took that leap of faith and started your own handbag line?
A: I was definitely nervous at different points, but I was more scared to go through life without ever taking the chance to live out my dream. Almost everyone has these huge plans for themselves for ‘when they get older’ but few really ever take the first step to put them into motion. It hit me like a ton of bricks when I realized that I was finally older and I was nowhere near where I thought I would be. It was when I stopped being a dreamer and finally decided to do something that I didn’t have a sinking feeling in my stomach anymore. It is empowering to know you’re heading in a direction you were always intended to.

Q: How old is the "Blair Ritchey" brand to date?
A: I began selling a few bags on Etsy in March 2011 to test things out. I decided to get serious and launched my website in November 2011. So approximately a year.

Q: Where do you grab inspiration from when designing your handbags?
A: I’m going to be cliché – everywhere! When you find something that you truly are passionate about it is easy to be inspired. For the Fall12 line I was really inspired by menswear. When I am designing I am mindful to stay true to my brand. Even though I really like a trend, I may choose to not incorporate it in the line.

Q: I love how you wanted to design bags that were not only visually appealing to the eye, but also functional to the every-day woman. What characteristics make your bags more functional?
A: I try to add a little function here and there. I started by having various size Lulu clutches with detachable tassels that could transition from travel pouches to clutches. I added the side strap to the Lulu foldover for times when it’s too full to fold over. To my customer, options equal function. I keep in mind when designing that women’s needs along with their surroundings change through out the day.

Q: Would you say that the fringed tassel is your trademark on your bags?
A: I definitely believe it is what I am most known for currently. I love how it gives the bags a little something extra.

Q: How would you describe your own personal style?
A: I have more of a classic laidback style. I tend to gravitate to more flowy loose fitting pieces. Even though I love pops of color the majority of my closet is black and grey, which makes it such a pain when I’m looking for something in particular!

Q: Your fan base seems to be growing quite rapidly and a lot of fashion bloggers have been seen online sporting your handbags. How important would you say is the influence of fashion bloggers with brands?
A: Huge - the bloggers that I have had the pleasure of working with have had a tremendous impact on my business. When you’re first starting, you don’t have the budget to hire outside agencies and put ad campaigns together. Bloggers have become brands’ direct channels to the public. Right now it is so much easier for designers to build a brand than it was even a few years ago, and one of the reasons is because bloggers have become such a focal point in the fashion industry.

Q: Your latest design is the Kanter and features a long strap so the bag can be worn across the body or on the shoulder -- so fun! Do you have any other exciting new designs coming to the site?
A: Yes, I am really excited to launch the Fall12 line. The Granger Duffel clutch and Bronwyn shopper along with a few others will be new additions.

Q: Where do you hope to see your brand in the next five years?
A: I would love to see the Blair Ritchey brand vibrantly expanding, a talented team growing, and new projects successfully being taken on.

Q: If you had to describe your bags in three words or less, which would you choose?
A: Simplistic, Functional, Luxury.


Want to get your hands on the Kanter bag featured in this post (in either mint, black, or fushia)?? To enter the giveaway, all you have to do is...
Entry Requirements:
[Please leave one comment for steps 1 & 2. Don't forget to leave your email!]
1.) Like Blair Ritchey on Facebook!
2.) Follow Belle de Couture via Google or Blog Lovin'!

Additional Entries:
[These entries are optional. Please leave a separate comment for each additional entry.]
1.) Follow Blair Ritchey on Twitter!
2.) Follow Belle de Couture on Twitter!
3.) Like Belle de Couture on Facebook!
4.) Share this giveaway on your blog, twitter, or facebook (leave a link to your post)!

Giveaway is open worldwide and ends Monday, July 16, 2012 at 7:00 PM EST! Don't forget to leave your e-mail in your comment(s), so we can contact you if you win! The winner will be chosen at random via the use of random.org. Good luck everyone! xo!!

Stella McCartney Resort 2013

{images via: Oracle Fox}


This collection made me swoon the moment I set eyes on it. Lace, fringe, floral & leopard print, and bright colors -- gah, everything I love! I'll take one of each please!!

Fall Faves From Farfetch.com

{1. Celine Vintage Wool Coat, $190; 2. Missoni Vintage Silk Top, $159; 3. Ungaro Vintage Wide-Leg Trouser, $153; 4. Holly Fulton Swarovski Studded Earring, $180; 5. Yves Saint Laurent Vintage Floral Maxi Skirt, $165; 6. Gucci Vintage Two Tone Belt, $153; 7. Helmut Lang Low Back Blouse, $195; 8. Missoni Vintage Floral Shirt, $127; 9. Catherine Zoraida 'Seahorse' Necklace, $316; 10. Alexander Wang 'Dakota' Boot, $650; 11. Missoni Vintage Tortoiseshell Sunglasses, $77; 12. Jacqueline Clark 'Caviar' Ring, $504; 13. Fendi Chain Clutch, $595; 14. Givenchy Cross and Ring Bracelet, $337; 15. Diane Von Furstenberg 'Ali' Heel/a>, $450; 16. Jean Paul Gaultier Vintage Cropped Silk Jacket, $153; 17. Lulu Frost Deco Concho Necklace, $452; 18. Kenzo Vintage Frill Jacket, $100; 19. JÉRÔME DREYFUSS Oscar Python handbag, $1,110; 20. Lanvin Silk Scarf, $387; 21. Gucci G Belt, $350; 22. Marc Jacobs 'The Deluxe' Wallet, $504; 23. Elizabeth And James Franklin Sunglasses; 24. Dominic Jones Gold-Plated Tooth Ring, $333; 25. Iosselliani Scarab Beetle Brooch, $202}

Fall is fast approaching and I am beyond ready for cooler temperatures and stylish new clothes. Farfetch.com has everything from contemporary designer pieces to vintage faves. This online shopping site unites diverse fashion boutiques with the everyday fashionista. There are over a 1,000 designer labels to choose from for both men and women, so it's easy to find something fabulous. Feeling inspired and ready to start putting together your chic ensembles for Fall? Look no further than Farfetch.com's Boutique Clothing. Looking for the perfect Fall or Winter jacket?? Check out Farfetch.com's Jackets. I'm personally lusting over the designer vintage pieces on the site. Each piece is eye-catching and unique. Not to mention, the prices are very reasonable. If you're an avid online shopper that is looking for a new and fun place to shop, then be sure to visit Farfetch.com!

SUN-Sational Spring Shades For Your Lips...

Every season has it's fabulous shades...and Spring is one of my faves! Bright corals, flashy fushias, and pretty pinks are the lip shades I am searching for to fill my clutches this season. The best thing about a pretty pout is that it can really make your outfit pop, even if your outfit is as simple as a pair of jeans and a tank. Some of you may like to play it safe when it comes to lip stick or lip gloss, but I encourage you to give at least one of these a shot... you might be pleasantly surprised and your lips will probably thank you because the majority of these formulas are weight-less...now how cool is that?


Revlon Color Burst Lipstick in Coral
[$9, drugstores]
*Tip: Log on to the Revlon website & create an account to print out a $3 coupon :]



Revlon Color Burst Lipstick in Fushia
[$9, drugstores]



Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Coral Reef
[$6.99, drugstores]



Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Pink Pop
[$6.00, drugstores]



Smashbox Lip Shine in Melon-Drama
[$19, Sephora]



Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Stick in Make Me Pink
[$7.49, drugstores]




*The Lip Gloss I'm Most Eager to Try...*

MAC Summer 2010 Collection "MAC To The Beach" Lip Glass
Colors(from top): Easy Lounger, Flurry of Fun, & Splashing
U.S. Launch Date: May 27, 2010
[$14 a pop, MAC Cosmetics]





*Have Super Chapped Lips, But Still Want To Wear Pretty Lipstick??*
I have the PERFECT solution for you: Aquaphor Advanced Therapy Healing Ointment

[$7 for two-pack, drugstores]

What's really great about this product is that it's multi-functional [& CHEAP!]. This product can be used on your lips of course, but also on any other dry spots you may have. Slather it on your chapped lips, rub them together, and glide on your favorite lip color and voila! Problem solved and your lips will feel mag-nificent! I have one in my purse at all times & the other on my night stand...I'm hooked!










*SPEAKING OF MULTI-FUNCTIONAL...
I think this is the PERFECT opportunity to bring in the LONGCHAMP Le Pliage Tote Bag
Where do I even begin? I recently became a HUGE fan of these bags [I have the medium style in Citrine & I'm LOVING it] and I'm already wanting more! "Pliage" stands for "folding" in French, and the bag comes folded up. It's the coolest thing! The bag not only holds EVERYTHING I need, but it's the easiest material to clean and it's completely light weight! Perfect travel bag, if I do say so myself! When you're not using the bag, just fold it up and snap the buttons and you can easily tuck it away in your closet, just like a book! The prices range from as low as $98 to over $200 and there are all sorts of sizes and colors to choose from.








*LONGCHAMP/JEREMY SCOTT COLLABORATION*

Famed runway designer [& one of my FAVES], Jeremy Scott, started his collaboration with LONGCHAMP in fall/winter 2009 and you can still get his bags. THEY ARE ROCKIN'! The bag below, featuring bones, is a spitting image from his Flintstones inspired runway show.

[$268]

Here are some of his other styles...the phone bag is ah-mazing :]