Fossil Spring Bag

Can you believe spring is almost here? I can't really tell with the sudden drop in temperatures here in Phoenix, but that hasn't stopped me from transitioning my accessories over to the new season. 

As you know Fossil is my go-to place for handbags and watches. I think I have about four different handbags from them now. The quality of their leather and their prices just can't be beat, and the styles are SO CUTE. I saw this white Ryder Satchel with black and brown detailing and I knew it would be that perfect spring and summer bag to go with everything. 

I like this bag because it's actually quite large. It holds all of my stuff and then some. I have carried three books in this bag. It also has a detachable strap when you just want to wear it as a handbag instead of a shoulder bag. 

You'll also notice that I'm wearing one of their new hybrid watches. This one is stainless steel and called the Jaqueline Hybrid Smartwatch. It syncs to your phone and vibrates when you have a text or a call, but doesn't show who is calling. I like that feature because it alerts you to check your phone but it's not as distracting as the full smartwatch.  

I must say silver has grown on me again, and I'm starting to switch back to it, especially for the summer seasons. What do you think? Are you more of a silver or a gold person?

Photos by Rennai Hoefer; Product given as a form of payment.

BAGS THAT GIVE BACK

Handbags are one accessory that is essential for your daily life. You need a place to carry all of your personal belongings, so why not do it in style. There are so many bags to choose from out there, but I want to share with you one handbag company that is changing the lives of families living in Guatemala one bag at a time. 

Ixchel Triangle is a company that is committed to supporting and changing the lives of people in Guatemala through creating beautiful, artisan bags that are one of kind. Every person that helps in the making of these bags are paid above market wages, and the children of these families have their education paid for by Ixchel Triangle.

I love that their bags are standout accessories that are HIGH quality. They leather on my bag is strong and durable. The bag even has a leather bottom with metal feet on the bottom to protect it from getting dirty. 

For any woman that is about to be a mom or is a mom of little ones, they also offer diaper bags that are the coolest I've ever seen. 

I chose to pair my Qas Nim bag with my new chambray embellished tank from TJ Maxx, skinny jeans and my Timberland wedges. 

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

Summer Clutch

Random fact: I have not purchased one single handbag in 10 years. Yep! You might be thinking, "How is that possible, especially being a stylist?" I guess I'm just not that girl that gets obsessed over shoes and handbags. I have big feet and I'm too lazy to always change purses. BUT one type of "handbag" I don't own yet is an over sized clutch. I love how they are big enough to hold your cell phone, wallet, keys and makeup, but not bulky enough to wear your shoulder out. Plus, they transition well from day to night.

So, here are some of my top picks for summer clutches:

1. BCBG Harlow Laser Cut Clutch - I love this clutch because it embodies the summer trend of white lace. It's something that you can wear with a sun dress, cocktail dress or even jeans. It retails at $128, but if that's too steep for you, try the BCBG Harlow Clutch in gold for only $51.00.

2. Metallic Linen Clutch - Linen is obviously a summer fabric. With the addition of a metallic sheen and a tassel, this over sized clutch screams summer trendsetter. Just like bag #1, this clutch would go with everything, but is perfect for someone who likes things a bit less feminine. $72.00

3. Black and white stripes - This Kate Spade bag is timeless and memorable. It's a bit pricey retailing at $268, but if you really want to invest in a show stopper this is a good choice.

4. Blush envelope clutch - Blush is still popular, and will remain as a neutral in a woman's color palette. Pastel colors in general had a huge breakout this year, so you can count on them remaining in 2013. This clutch is only $32.50, so why not invest in a hot trend at such a low price?!

5. Glitter clutch - Who doesn't love a good pop of glitter? Add it to your t-shirt and jeans ensemble for a wow factor or make it the icing on the cake with your New Year's outfit. Not to mention gold is here to stay. So, while you may have already stocked up on plenty of silver glittery things, you might want to make room for golden hues too.