Selecting the best Denim
PLEATED JEANS ARE BACK
Pleated Jeans Outfits. Pleated jeans were quite the thing back in the eighties. Our moms probably rocked them like nobody’s business, pairing them with oversized sweaters, Converse, and fluffy hairdos. Lucky for us, this is fashion and whatever has been done before will be done again. So it is no surprise that pleated jeans are BACK and as long as they are around, why not hop on the trend and give your Mama’s ’80’s fashion style a try for yourself? How to Wear Pleated Jeans? Now, before we go any further, let’s touch base on what pleated jeans actually are. You might be picturing a long seam running from waistband to hem but this isn’t always the case. A lot of the time, pleated jeans are just regular style jeans with a short pleat (or pleats) running from mid-calf to hem or waistband to mid-thigh. It’s a subtle touch that takes average denim to a new level. So, without further ado, let’s get into all the ways you can style these bad boys, plus where you can find them to get yourself a pair! Women Pleated Jeans Outfits – 7 Ways to Wear Pleated Jeans As with any trend, the item in question will probably end up on the racks of your favorite clothing stores… eventually. But in the era of lockdowns and worldwide pandemics, it’s helpful to know where you can find them online, or, to save you time, what stores carry them so you can knock time off your shopping ventures and get right to business. Here are six places where you can buy pleated jeans: Anthropologie ASOS Shopbop H&M SHEIN Revolve Tips for Wearing Pleated Jeans Let’s get real for a second. Adding the odd pleat to jeans, which are already a difficult clothing item to size perfectly, can make things a tad more complicated. How do you rock them without adding unnecessary width or bulk to your frame? How do you wear them in a way that feels modern and trendy? Well, check out these five tips on wearing pleated jeans that should help you out. If you have never worn pleated jeans before, but you are game to try them, start with a lowkey pair that doesn’t feel too showy. You’ll want to feel comfortable and like yourself while wearing them. High-waist pleated jeans seem like the best option for most body shapes as the close fit around the waist ensures you get some semblance of a shapely figure. Paper bag style is also recommended as they will really cinch the waist and draw the focus up and in… even as those well-placed pleats add some extra roundness to your hip region. There seem to be two trendy style tops to pair with these jeans. You can go for a bodysuit to balance out the excess fabric on your lower half. Or you can tuck in a blouse-y style top which may puff out a little around your chest but should remain cinched in around your waist to keep that shapely silhouette. #7. Laidback Street-Style Leather Blazer If you love a laidback, street-style look that can work as much for creative work meetings, coffee dates, and travel, this is the outfit you have been waiting for. From pleated boyfriend jeans to a loose leather blazer, this outfit is chic without trying too hard, comfy without looking sloppy, and just edgy enough to make you feel like a true icon while wearing it. It has all the elements we love and then some! #6. With a Wrap Top and Heels With pleated jeans, you aren’t stuck with just blue denim. You have options! And these white pleated jeans (said to be a dead-ringer for Australian designer label Aje’s $295 palazzo pants) are one of the best. This elegant-chic look is great for date night, dinner parties, and other semi-dressy affairs. You can dress it up or play it down: either way, these pleated jeans are the bomb dot com. #5. With a Tucked-In Tank Top These jeans are so cute, you won’t mind wearing them in summer (or you won’t mind as much!). We love the addition of a wide belt to really draw the eye in. Pair with a tucked-in tank or bodysuit and have fun coordinating pops of color into your look. Finish off the whole ensemble with some metallic gold heels, hoop earrings, and a mini crossbody purse. #4. Ultra-Glam Style Wondering if it’s possible to style an ultra-glamorous outfit with pleated jeans? The answer is a big fat YES. We are half in love with this whole look, from the cropped hair to the bell-shaped sleeves and the incredible gold heels. It’s all about the little details with this look: so a teeny, tiny braided belt for the waist, gold hoop earrings, and matching heels are must-haves. Go full glam with your makeup (if you like makeup, that is) and let your trendy jeans do all the talking. #3. With a Cardigan & Mules If you love a laidback London-girl vibe, this is the look for you. Perfect for feeling cute, even when you are staying at home or having a night in, this ensemble will have you feeling comfy, too. Ditch the tight-fitting tees for a soft v-neck cardigan and pair them up with some slouchy pleated jeans. Shoes are optional. If you aren’t feeling heels, try little white sneakers or some flat-heeled mules. #2. Gray Jeans with Pleated Hem A less common type of pleated jean has the pleated hem as well… and you can see here how cute they look! This is a more close-fitting pair that doesn’t add too much bulk to the hip and thigh arena, which is perfect for petite gals. Pair up with a sleeveless mock-turtleneck top, loafers, and a big tote bag. You can throw together this outfit in less than five minutes, which gets big points in our book. #1. With Open-Front Sleeveless top Last but certainly not least, we have a
LET’S TALK DENIM
Fashion can be more attainable for you in your life. Just because an item is listed somewhere as hot or trendy doesn’t automatically make it right for you. Your preferences are your own, meaning you need to make your own decisions. Keep your eye on fashion articles as the season changes. Styles change often, so stay up to date by looking at fashion magazine regularly. These businesses operate well by staying abreast of the trends, and reporting them to the public. Don’t underestimate their usefulness. Always take note of the new fashion trends in the industry. Styles are constantly changing, which is why you are going to want to make sure that you are always up to date with the latest there is to know. They usually share the new trends before anyone else. When you are traveling, bring clothing in different shades of neutral colors that you can mix and match with each other. You’ll have many options available to you, while never being at risk of clashing. To pull your fashion look together, add color accents with belts, scarves and shoes. Be honest when you look at yourself in the mirror and learn what needs to be highlighted as well as hidden. You can look taller by wearing some fitted clothes and soft fabrics. If you have a large bust, buy eye-catching clothing that will draw attention away from it. Just try and find clothes that will make you look appealing but classy at the same time. Denim jeans being one of the most sought clothing items in any wardrobe has taken its place over the years and has been sported by men coming from every walk of life. From cowboys to soldiers, punks and rockers, to hippies, mods, indie kids and preps. They are universally accepted piece of clothing, suited for every season, outfit and occasion. When we talk about dressing, we all go for a test on new things until we actually come across the style that is perfect for you, which will include lots of designs, lots of clothes shopping, lots of trying on, and lots of refusals. To help you avoid any mishaps, the following tips will help you select the ideal pair of jeans by exploring the best jeans for men. Whether you’re more of a slim fit, or want the straight cut or Dad jean style, we’ll guide you on the jean do’s and don’ts. Fashion trends come and go very frequently, and keeping up with all the latest fashion trends is almost impossible. There is a bit of today’s popular trends that you will find at online stores in the women’s clothing collection. Loose Skinny jeans have been in the trends for years now. However, loose jeans are stepping back into style. They’re comfortable and cool, and take their inspiration from skater fashion. Loose jeans look trendy and hot with skinny tops, revealing your muscles. Distressed Distressed jeans have always been in style. Ripped and worn areas anywhere on the jeans have made it big in the fashion circle for years. This helps in giving you that casual look that you long for. Instead of the hem being neatly sewed, the hem is tattered. They look flawless if paired with modest t-shirts. Embroidered Just like distressed jeans, glammed-up jeans are popular. Embroidery has always been the talk in the fashion circle, as can be seen at the back of a denim jacket or on the jeans’ legs. A huge collection of these embroidered jeans can be found only in online stores. If you are tight on budget, you can also avail discounts while shopping online. So, what are you waiting for? Hurry before the stocks last; after all, it’s the holiday season! Patched Jeans with a look that there are different pieces joined together are in style for a long time. Blending diverse washes of denim or dissimilar fabrics beneath rips is becoming a massive trend. The pockets and sleeves are frequently made with unlike fabrics. Light Wash Dark jeans have continuously been on the fashion table for rather a while now, but light washes are always rising. They are particularly great if you want to pair them with colourful shirts. Light wash jeans are best when matched with both bright and pastel colours. They are an ideal fit for men with slimmer legs. Some of these trends have been around for years, some are brand new, and some have come back from the dead. There’s no doubt that this time next year, some of these trends will have died in favor of new ones. Suppose you are irresolute and can’t realize what to buy and from where visit the largest online store for your clothing needs. Choosing the right size 1. Don’t worry about your body type In case of women, they are most concerned about hiding their curves, but when it comes to men, they can look good with just any pair of denim. A perfect ensemble for men is a classic fit which is suitable for informal activities, and customized with a tailored cut that can be worn at formal events as well. 2. Shop a size smaller than normal A tight belt if too loose can jeopardize your complete look and if the belt is very tight, it will lead to discomfort. The next time you plan on buying a pair of jeans, go for one size smaller than yours. 3. Skinny jeans aren’t just for hipsters Most men jump in joy when they hear words like slim and fit coming together. Whether you are a die-hard classical type or boot-cut guys, looking for a straight leg or slim, rather than thin. Whether you are deciding to purchase a jean that is just the right match for you, don’t hesitate to visit online stores right now. You will certainly end up buying the best pair of jeans for yourself, but you can also enjoy big discounts with most online stores.
HOW TO WEAR & STYLE A DENIM DRESS
Do you love the idea and the look of a denim dress, but you’re not sure exactly how to wear one? Don’t worry, The Jeans Blog has you covered! There are lots of different variations when it comes to denim dresses, some are tight, buttoned, short, long, slouchy… The list is endless, but there’s different ways of wearing each style and it couldn’t be easier! The denim dress was made quite popular by the likes of Alexa Chung actually a few years ago, we kept spotting her out and about in different cuts and fits and she completely rocked them! Then it came to her releasing her own take on the trend with her AG collaboration and everyone has loved them since. Denim dresses have become a statement in their own right! So, how do you wear or style a denim dress? Just keep reading to find out! You can also shop some of the most gorgeous and latest denim dresses online at Topshop, REVOLVE Clothing and Shopbop. They have all the on trend pieces for the current season. One of the most popular denim dress styles is the shirt dress. Much like the first main photo and the one just above, the shirt dress is a long version of a denim shirt and it can be fitted or slouchy. Some shirt dresses have subtle buttons on the front, much like a button up, but others are slip overs and they come in a variety of washes. What I think is the best way to wear a shirt dress is with heels and bare legs. The contrast of the amount of denim covering your torso combined with the bare legs and extra length is fantastic. It makes you look slimmer, chicer and gorgeous. These two lovely fashion bloggers above are rocking it! If that’s not your thing and you want to wear a denim shirt dress in the cooler weather, or just don’t feel comfortable with heels or bare legs, you can always team your shirt dress with some tight-fitting leggings or tights, coupled with either ankle boots or cute flats. This type of styling gives the look a younger and more girly approach, while the other is mature and sexy. Depending on what type of vibe you are going for, either of these denim shirt dress stylings work. You can add a little cross body bag, clutch or tote to this outfit and layer on your jewellery and sunglasses too, just to really vamp it up a notch. Denim Button Front Dress Similar to the denim shirt dress, the denim button front dress is easy to wear. Alexa Chung brought this style back from past decades and made it popular again and I love it. It’s a lot of denim to wear because the button front denim dresses are made of thicker denim and they feature long sleeves as well, so you are definitely making a statement and loving the blue fabric to wear one of these. I find the best option for styling dresses like these is with some quirky and preppy flats, much like an elegant brogue or oxford and then layering on a cute cross body bag. It’s a great way to wear a dress like this and it makes it look preppy. You can opt for heels if you want, but I would personally choose something like a wedge or a statement ankle boot as you need to keep the look toned down and casual, not too glam. Denim Pinafore Dress The pinafore denim dress or overalls/dungaree dress is super cute! With a retro feel, these little dresses have definitely come back into fashion with the likes of Urban Outfitters featuring them in their Urban Renewal range or Topshop creating their own take on the trend, but one thing is certain and that’s the fact that they are adorable. Pinafore denim dresses give a youthful and innocent edge to your outfit, making them incredibly feminine. The best way to wear a pinafore denim dress is layered over a girly or cute t-shirt or shirt and then teamed with some wedges or flats. Keeping it casual like this is definitely the way to go as you can’t really dress up a dungaree style dress to look classy, unless you opted for a black one and went with thigh high boots. The way Alexa and the other fashion blogger wore their overall denim dresses here is so cute! It’s preppy, quirky and sweet! You can buy denim dresses like this online at Urban Outfitters. Chic Denim Bodo Shift Dress Finally, we have the boho chic denim shift dress. These are very 70’s and feature bell sleeves, a tunic style fit and sometimes embroidery to add to the ethnic vibe. These types of denim dresses are great as they work for all weather and seasons! You can easily team them with bare legs and wedges in the Summer, then with knee high boots for the Spring or Autumn and then come Winter, layering a denim shift dress with some skinny jeans or flares with a jacket layered over the top works for that gorgeous double denim look! If you’re not sure on how to wear double denim, we have you covered on that too! The denim shift dress or tunic dress definitely is stylish and gives a more mature vibe to the whole denim dress concept, so it can be deemed as fashionable, maybe even the most fashionable, out of the 4 styles listed here.
6 MUST HAVE PAIR OF JEANS FOR MEN
A great pair of jeans can be the foundation of an outfit: Though the jeans themselves may not draw attention, they will elevate whatever else you wear, whether it’s a white T-shirt on the weekend or a cashmere sweater for date night. Get jeans wrong—too baggy, overly distressed—and they’re all anyone will notice (for all the wrong reasons). After conducting interviews with experts and testing with a panel of diverse bodies, we’ve narrowed our list to four terrific pairs that are both comfortable and good-looking. For those interested in raw denim (which is stiff and untreated), I also tested and found three hard-wearing and stylish pairs, one of which costs under $100. Levi’s Premium 511 Slim Fit Men’s Jeans The Levi’s 511 jeans are a widely beloved slim straight pair. They offer sturdy construction, stitching, and stretch, alongside a classic American (or, rather, Levi’s) look. Well-constructed and with a flattering cut, these close-fitting jeans offer the teensiest bit of stretch to make an already-comfortable pair of pants even more comfortable. Whether because of glossy magazines or billboards on the highway, for many people classic blue jeans look just like Levi’s 511 Premium Slim Fit Men’s Jeans. These dark-wash jeans sit just under the waist, with trim legs that still let your calves and ankles breathe. Bonobos Premium Stretch Denim Jeans Bonobos come in more lengths and waist sizes than any pairs we tested, with a “slim” cut that still has a good amount of stretch in the thighs and glutes (for people with a thicker build). Soft jeans that are more forgiving than others we tested, the Bonobos have enough room for my thick butt and thighs to breathe. Bonobos, which makes our favorite white T-shirt with diverse sizing, has impressed us by making good clothes that come in more sizes than are offered by most other manufacturers. The company’s Premium Stretch Denim Jeans are available in waist sizes 28 to 54 and in lengths from 28 to 36—notably more sizes than for any other brand of jeans we found. Bonobos also gets bonus points for providing clearly explained product options. Rather than Levi’s 24 listings for one cut of jeans, Bonobos combines all cuts, sizes, and materials into one product page, so you can easily pick what you think will work best for you. Uniqlo Men Slim-Fit Jeans The Uniqlo Slim-Fit Jeans are comfortable and come in a wide range of sizes. But they have a thinner fabric. And though they’re stretchy, their shape didn’t bounce back as well as that of pricier jeans. These slim jeans are constructed from a thinner fabric than the other jeans we loved, with clean and consistent lines. The Uniqlo jeans are a lot higher quality than other inexpensive jeans options I’ve seen,” Chubstr’s Bruce Sturgell said. The Uniqlo Slim-Fit Jeans were a great pair considering the $50 price tag. Not only are they comfortable, but they looked good on all of our testers. And they come in a wide variety of waist sizes, from a 29 to a 48. Buck Mason Ford Standard Jeans The Ford Standard’s heavier denim and button fly separate these jeans from others. They are also more solidly constructed, and our testers noted their comfort and good looks. These jeans are durable, long-lasting, and heavy-duty—but without being rough or uncomfortable. Sure, they probably won’t last forever, but they feel like they might. Sometimes a pair of classic Levi’s isn’t enough. When you need a heavier pair of denim to keep you company, try Buck Mason’s Ford Standard Jeans. Buck Mason makes this exceptional pair of jeans with a heavyweight denim that felt durable, without being coarse or rough. The Ford jeans were the most highly praised pair we reviewed during panel testing. Everyone loved wearing them. Unbranded Brand UB101 Skinny Fit 14.5 oz Indigo Selvedge Denim The Unbranded Brand UB101 Skinny Fit jeans are a great, affordable selvedge pair. These jeans have a minimalist look and a substantial feel, and they slowly molded to my body. Though notably heavy, the Unbranded Brand UB101 Skinny Fit 14.5 oz Indigo Selvedge Denim jeans felt especially comfortable and durable after I broke them in for a month. A short fly made them trickier to button and unbutton quickly. Of every pair of selvedge jean, we looked at, the Unbranded Brand UB101s were the most affordable, while still being of high quality. I appreciated their minimal, “unbranded” look: They have a blank brown tag on the back, as well as cohesively colored copper tin buttons. One of my editors, Tim Barribeau, said he got his first pair of selvedge denim jeans from the Unbranded Brand, too. These are good jeans at a reasonable price—to help you advance to the first level of raw denim. The Unbranded Brand jeans I tested were 14½ ounces (common for midweight denim, but heavier than anything else we tested), and I found them and their rope-dried indigo exterior quite substantial and stiff at first. Breaking them in felt unnatural, like I was working against nature. Slowly but surely, though, the jeans began to give. After a few weeks, I started to look forward to putting them on. Left Field NYC Chelsea Cone Mills 13 oz Denim Jeans The Left Field NYC Chelsea Cone Mills jeans were light and easy to wear. They have a cut bordering on skinny, though they come in limited sizes. If you’re slender, these slim-fitting jeans will suit you best. Their material feels great on the legs, with roomy front pockets that are easy to use. The Left Field NYC Chelsea Cone Mills 13 oz Denim Jeans were the most expensive selvedge jeans we tested, and for good reason: The stitching was near-perfect, with no loose threads or buttons, and all the hardware felt like it would last for a long time. They were light-feeling on my legs, despite their tough materials, and they’re a great, super-slim pair of jeans. Although I didn’t find the fit to be perfect for my particular
TRENDY MAKEUP BAGS
Choices in trendy makeup bags today are numerous. It can be difficult to narrow down what you need with so many great bags to choose from. When you determine what you really need in a makeup bag, the choice is easier. Considering the following information will help you figure out which bag is best for your own personal needs. Keep Things Simple You can keep it simple by remembering that your makeup on the go is for touch ups, not a complete makeover. You don’t need every piece of makeup and every beauty tool that you own. Good products that have been properly applied will last all day. You will only need an occasional touch up throughout your day. Your makeup bag should reflect this in its size. By scaling down what you carry, you will be able to have a makeup bag that will easily fit into your everyday bag. The Basics What you carry in your makeup bag is your choice, but there are a few basics that everyone will need. Your well-stocked bag should contain: A purse size fragrance Concealer Blotting paper (for oily skin) Nail file Small hand cream Sunscreen Mirror Pressed powder Eye makeup and beauty tools like makeup brushes or eyelash curlers should not be necessary to carry with you unless you are taking a trip. If you work out you should consider keeping an extra set of beauty essentials in your locker. For most everyday situations, only a few items are needed to get through the day. Hot Colors in Trendy Makeup Bags Go for greens if you want the hottest color trend for this year. Any shade of green will do, pick your favorite and you’ll be is style. Also, popular this year are shades of wine or purple. Metallic gold or silver add a stylish touch to any color in trendy makeup bags. Of course, black or white are colors that are timeless and always in style. Features Besides a reasonable size, you will want a trendy makeup bag that is easy to keep clean. Vinyl, PVC or washable fabrics are a good idea just in case of an accidental spill. Clear plastic or mesh bags are easy to keep clean and make finding specific items much simpler. Some trendy makeup bags have several compartments or mesh pockets, so you can keep your beauty supplies organized. Zippers or snap closures are a better choice than a fold over flap to keep the contents of your makeup bag from dumping all over your handbag. Where to Purchase Trendy Makeup Bags Funky Chunky Handbags has been featured in magazines like Self, Family Circle, Cottage Living and Celebrity Living. Specializing in funky, hard to find fashions, you will find an awesome selection of trendy makeup bags. Choose from designers like Stephanie Johnson, Nick and Nora and more. You’ve probably seen Melissa Beth Designs featured in many of your favorite magazines. Best known for stylish laptop totes, they also have some wonderful, trendy makeup bags. Their Kiss and Makeup line of bags comes in six hot colors. Features include removable inside pouches and custom brush holders. This is the perfect case for all of your makeup and accessories when you need more than just the basics for only $48. Sephora has an amazing selection of trendy makeup bags, cases and totes. From the clear signature bag for only $4 to the Sephora signature double handled makeup bag for $35 you will find what you need here. In fact, there are too many goodies here to stop at makeup bags. Don’t say you weren’t warned. The Final Word Here is a fun idea. Design your own trendy makeup bag! At Bari J you can do just that for only $16, or choose a readymade makeup bag. They have an incredible array of fabrics and vintage or modern embellishments, so your bag will reflect your own personal style. Design a coordinating handbag and you are set.
STYLE LIKE A CELEBRITY
Emily Blunt: Coach Dakotah Crossbody Bag Emily blunt is one of the hot girls of Hollywood right now especially with the Christmas Day release of her movie Into the Woods. Better yet Emily Blunt is clearly a woman who not only loves fashion but is not afraid to be seen with the same bag more then once she uses her stuff and shows that she is a little different then the majority of other celebrities who only seem to use a bag once or maybe twice. We love her choice of the very useable Coach Dakotah Crossbody Bag and clearly it is a bag she loves too! Pamela Anderson: Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Bag Whether you love her or hate her, Pamela Anderson has been known to make some correct fashion choices. While sometimes she makes some interesting choices when it comes to clothing, the well known Pamela usually makes the perfect choice when it comes to her handbags. There was a time when we wouldn’t have seen Pamela with leather as she took up arms with PETA and took a stand, those times seem to have changed now as she has been spotted with the beautiful Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Bag around town. Charlize Theron: Louis Vuitton Soft Lockit Bag Charlize Theron is a busy working Mom but she still manages to always step out and show off a bit of fashion. Whether she is running errands or arriving at LAX she knows how to match out an outfit. We have seen her take out the bling and glitter when walking the red carpet with designer clutches and gowns. However, when this busy lady is on her own time she tends to dress it down a bit more but still remain fashionable. The Louis Vuitton Soft Lockit Bag is a perfect example of this. Charlize can pair this designer win perfectly with jeans and we still want to have a look in her closet! Taylor Swift: Stepping out with Dolce & Gabbana Love her or hate her Taylor swift has a quirky taste when it comes to handbags. She seems to love them all from big to smell. She does not choose to carry bags that seem to be the it bag of the moment but instead she tends to go for options that are less noted but no less fashionable. She shows that perfect pattern with her choices in the beautiful Dolce & Gabanna line. You can see here three perfect examples of stunning bags that may not be on every arm. The Dolce & Gabbana Agata Bag, the Dolce & Gabbana Linda Bag and the Dolce & Gabbana Sara Bag. Aretha Franklin: Chanel Classic Flap Aretha Franklin is a music legend, so it only seems to fit that when she steps out she tends to carry fashion legends on her arm. Ms. Franklin always hits the right notes whether it be in song or in fashion and we can see that she has a big love of the Chanel Classic flap bag. In fact she seems to just love Chanel across the board and it of course is a fashion legend so who can blame the songstress for her love of a fantastic classic. Supermodels & Chanel We all know Chanel is one of the biggest names in fashion. It is a classic brand that has been around since 1909. When you spend that much time as a powerhouse fashion house everyone wants to have your items. So it should come as no surprise that some of the biggest names currently in fashion such as Karlie Kloss, Chrissty Teigen and Kate Upton are seen out on the town often with their favorite Chanel bags. The flap bags in various style seem to be the big winner as we see Karlie Kloss with the Chanel Flap Bag, Chrissy Teigen with the Chanel Vintage Jumbo Flap Bag and Kate Upton Chanel Reissue 2.55 Alligator Flap Bag. Chrissy Teigen: And her favorite Celine bags Another supermodel who rarely makes a wrong fashion step Chrissy Teigen knows how to make every outfit pop just the right way with accessories. This model beauty always has on the right shoes and of course the perfect bags. You can see her step out with any of the major brands on her arm depending on the season or her mood. What designer do we see her seem to favor for traveling however? Celine. Whether she is strolling with the Celine Trapeze Bag, the Celine Luggage Tote or the Celine Phantom Luggage Tote this is one model who knows how to work it. Ashley Olsen: Loves a good Birkin Bag If you are of the right age group you remember Ashley Olsen as one half of the adorable team of twin sisters that played Michelle Tanner on Full House. She would run around doing any number of cute things for her family on the show, but my has she grown up and turned into a bit of a fashion icon to watch. Ashley loves a good bag and she seems to have a fondness for Birkin and who could blame her Birkin is one of the most sought-after bags in fashion.
HOW TO CLEAN AND RESTORE A SUEDE PURSE
Suede is often seen as one of the scarier leather finishes to commit to, but in reality, it’s actually not as temperamental as its reputation. It’s kind of the dramatic house plant of the leather family. At some point, they both can end up looking kind of sad, and that may lead you to think it’s beyond saving, but with some basic care, both spring right back to life. Though there are some things that you can’t come back from, like: balding, serve matting, and long set oil-based stains, but all of these are easily preventable. It kills me to see perfectly good suede bags sitting on shelves in need of homes or even trashed because they are simply dry and in need of a little cleaning, but in all fairness, that’s how I scored this Fendi Mama Forever bag for an amazing deal. Dry Cloth Wipe Down Seems easy enough, right? Just take a soft (non-linty) rag to brush off hairs, lint, and other bits your bag may have on it. No need to use any pressure, really, as you don’t want to cake the grime further into the bag. Try not to over-fixate on any area at this point, as things that don’t come out now will very likely come out later with the brush. Simply rub lightly with the grain of the leather until there is no residue on the rag. You will be surprised how much dust and dirt can come off during this process. Wipe Down With Dry Cloth Since this bag was really dusty, I did a “wet” cloth wipe down to pick up some more of that dirt as I didn’t want to brush it into the suede. If your bag isn’t covered in dust, you may be able to get great results simply by brushing it, but unfortunately, this little guy was far beyond that point. Excessive moisture and wetness, in general, aren’t great for suede, so I used a thicker cloth that would be less absorbent and not so drippy. I dipped the tip of the rag in the water lightly. As you can see in the photo, the rag is hardly even damp. Then with the grain of the suede, I wiped the bag down gently, making sure not to press too hard. Wet Cloth Wipe If you own any suede at all, I highly recommend you buy a suede brush and keep it handy. They have saved the lives of so many of my favourite pieces, and I usually keep one in my purse if I’m wearing suede in case of an emergency. Aside from helping brush away dirt and grime, brushes are crucial to help prevent matting, and “refluffing” your suede is crucial for maintaining its softness. For this project, I’ll be using the bristle side of the brush to lightly remove the remaining layer of dust from my bag. Like the previous steps, always go along with the grain of your leather, and you really do not need to go hard. There was some light matting at the edges of the top flap that I did apply a little more pressure to, but it was still ever so slight. When trying to de-matte, I go very slow. Sometimes I even take breaks as you really do not want to overdo it and damage the suede. Taking a break stops me from hyper-fixating and obsessing over a single spot, and it’s helpful to remind myself that it can be incremental! Moisturize Your Suede! One of the tell-tale signs your bag is dry is a dull color, and it really shows in suede. I wanted to restore this bag back to the rich chocolatey brown of its youth and did so with Collonil Leather gel. It is my all-time favorite leather moisturizer. It has done wonders on all of my bags. Though it is not so common in the States, it is very common in Europe, and you can buy it online easily (this is not sponsored by them; I just genuinely love this product). Suede doesn’t need a lot of moisture, and since this is a thicker conditioner, I will be using a small amount. Put a dime-size amount of conditioner on a cloth and pat the cloth together to thin the conditioner like in the photo on the right below. This way, you have a thinner amount in a wider area than a concentrated glob. Dime sized amount of conditioner on cloth Spread the conditioner Remember to always spot test somewhere discreet to make sure you don’t ruin your bag. I tested in a corner under the flap to make sure there was no reaction. When buying preowned, this is especially important, as you just never know what the previous owners treated your bag with. You may even discover your bag is re-dyed (yikes)! Once that’s out of the way, and you feel safe proceeding, you can gently massage the moisturizer into the bag, again with the grain and not too rough. If you noticed you accidentally applied it too thick, stay calm and blot gently with a rag, do not rub it in or try to wipe it off. Also, some spots may look uneven right after you apply, but do not panic! Give the bag some time to dry, and more often than not, it will dry down evenly. This bag required two coats in the end; I doubt it was ever conditioned previously and likely stored in a closet without a dust bag. Most bags will not need this much (especially with Collonil leather gel), and I allowed time for the bag to dry in-between applications. Below is a comparison, the right side has been brushed and moisturized, and the left half is still in its original condition. How To Remove Odor Out Of Suede? This bag didn’t have a strong or offensive odor, but it did smell slightly of someone else’s perfume. Since it’s not too strong, it isn’t a deal-breaker for
HAWAIIAN PURSES: STYLISH BAGS INSPIRED BY THE ISLANDS
Nothing announces “summer-ready” more loudly than Hawaiian purses and beachy bags. Whether you go to an actual beach or just want a bag to hold poolside essentials, there are many options if you want an island-themed bag. Beautiful Hawaiian Tote Bags Totes are favorite handbags for so many women because they can fit just about anything and everything inside of them. For women on the go, these totes are functional and fun with their Hawaiian flair. Pineapple Tote Bag While most Hawaiian handbags are brightly colored and busily patterned, this pineapple tote takes design in a different direction. The brown color is muted and versatile enough to wear with countless outfits, but the single-center pineapple stays true to the Hawaiian theme. Made of cotton and jute, this tote is durable and washable. At 16″ W x 15″ H, it’s large enough to fit just about anything that you need to carry inside of it. This bag retails for $40. Spartina Hawaiian Islands Embroidered Tote Another bag that stays with the island theme, but moves away from the traditional large, bright floral patterns is the Spartina Hawaiian Island Embroidered Tote. This bag is decorated with all things Hawaiian island-related. It’s fun, whimsical, and unique. The bag retails for $148. Aloha Pape’ete Day Tripper Aloha carries just about every Hawaiian print that you could possibly dream up. This bright purple and pink floral tote gives off island vibes and warm and sunny thoughts. It retails for $68 and can be purchased directly from the Aloha website. Heavenly Hawaiian Beach Bags Hawaii and the beach go together like Sonny and Cher or peanut butter and jelly. If you are beach-bound, then a Hawaiian beach bag for all of your essentials is an absolute must. Lilly Pulitzer Purple/Blue XL Market Shopper Bag Lily Pulitzer is known for bright, light colors and the line has become synonymous with Hawaiian prints. The Lily Pulitzer Market Bag measures 20″ x 10″ and can fit personal items, beach blankets, water bottles, frisbees, and more inside. The bag easily collapses and folds up so that it is never cumbersome and always simple to store away. ESVAN Original Floral Large Beach Bag This beach bag is large in size, measuring 14.6″ x 15.4″, washable and waterproof. As far as beach bags go, this particular bag checks off all the boxes. The green pineapples hint at Hawaiian flair without being over-the-top, which is perfect for those wanting to make a Hawaiian statement but still not wanting to commit to the bright and bold classic Hawaiian prints. It retails for under $30 and is sold on Amazon. Hawaiian Print Medium-Sized Beach Bag This beach bag is available on Amazon for about $13 comes in three Hawaiian-inspired patterns, and meets all beachy requirements for a day of fun in the sun. Throw your wallet, your keys, and your cell phone inside, zip everything up, and off you go! Hawaiian Inspired Clutches Hawaiian-inspired prints on a petite clutch or wristlet add a pop of color to any ensemble. These fancy floral prints and Hawaiian-flair clutches will complement any summer-season style. Monstera Print Clutch This cute clutch plays on the lush greenery often found on the tropical Hawaiian islands, and its cute top clasp gives off a vintage vibe. This small bag is perfect for a night out on the town during a vacation. It retails for $56. Tab Clutch Butter Floral This clutch is feminine, soft and full of Hawaiian inspiration. The pleated material feels very vintage yet still trendy and fresh. It’s a beauty of a clutch to grab and go with. This purse retails for $100 on the Loeffler Randall website. White Pineapple Clutch Tag Aloha Co. makes a line of Hawaiian printed purses, and this black and white pineapple clutch is a lovely statement piece to pair with any evening outfit. It’s a perfect blend of island flair and classy design. It retails for less than $30 n the Tag Aloha website and if this particular clutch doesn’t tickle your fancy, the site has tons more styles and designs to choose from. Choosing Your Hawaiian Purse When settling on the perfect Hawaiian purse or bag, a few considerations come into play. Choose something brightly patterned, but make sure that it will go with key pieces in your closet. You’ll want to rock your new Hawaiian bag more than once per season, so make sure it is bold and fun but complements what you already own. Second, when you do settle on a style, let that be your piece of pattern. Having a busy Hawaiian bag, a differently patterned Hawaiian dress, and floral shoes will be far too much. If you choose a bag with lots of color and personality, play down the other components of your style with solids. Lastly, don’t break the bank. Something like a Hawaiian purse will get plenty of use on tropical getaways and during the warmer months, but you might not use it year-round. If you are going to splurge on a year-round handbag, consider purchasing something timeless, classic, and well-made.
BEST CROSSBODY PURSES FOR TRAVEL
If you want to look for more secure bags than a shoulder travel purse or backpack, you should consider purchasing crossbody travel purses. These products are more stylish compared to a traditional travel daypack. Moreover, a crossbody travel bag is more practical compared to a travel backpack. In this post, we will focus on giving you important info about choosing the best crossbody bag for travel. They will help you find the best one to suit your style. Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Crossbody Purses for Travel Here are some important features to look for when choosing the best crossbody purses for travel: Comfort: you need to choose a bag that is comfortable enough to be worn all day. You should consider ones with straps that are easy to adjust to suit your body style. Size: Pick a size large enough for your requirements. However, don’t choose ones that are so larger. Otherwise, you may face overloading yourself. Weight: it’s a good idea to look for a durable and lightweight travel purse. Of course, you don’t want to get a purse that is heavy before putting anything in. Material: we recommend you to go for a crossbody travel purse which is made of water-resistant materials. They can keep your belongings safe from rain. Pocket Configuration and Compartments: Consider what compartments and pockets you need. Actually, many purses are packed with loads of pockets. More importantly, you need to choose pockets that fit what you need. Zip Closures: you shouldn’t choose purses that have wide or gaping openings without closing securely. It’s best to choose ones with zips in all compartments and openings. Features: determine the essential features for your need in a travel purse. In addition to design and functionality, you should look for ones with anti-theft features. Best Crossbody Purses for Travel Reviews Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag This product is one of the best-selling handbags for travel on the market today. It has an excellent pocket configuration. Therefore, it can help to keep your things organized. It also has a sleek design. It comes in over 25 colors and designs. This purse is designed to be able to hold all of your handbag essentials and a small sized travel water bottle. You won’t get overloaded. Besides, this bag includes room for a Kindle in the back pocket. In addition, it has anti-theft technology which is actually the best feature of this product. Features: There are locking zips, RFID card slots, and internal the organizational pockets in the main compartment The adjustable cut-proof should strap allow you to attach to the chair for the security Removable LED light Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag This model is just like the Travelon classic crossbody bag. However, it is more spacious. It comes with the two external expandable pockets on the sides. They allow you to hold a travel umbrella and a travel water bottle. Also, you can keep your Kindle, cell phone, iPad mini, and a compact camera in it. Also, it has all the usual Travelon anti-theft features such as locking zippers and lockdown functionality, anti-slash fabric and straps, and RFID blocking rear organiser. It ensures to keep your things safe thanks to a large locking maintain compartment, the two mesh expansion pockets, front locking zip pocket, and rear organisational pocket. The purses is available in 16 colours and design to choose from. Travelon Anti-Theft Unisex Heritage Tour Bag If you are looking for a travel purse for travel and everyday use, the Travelon Anti-Theft Unisex Heritage Tour Bag is highly recommended for you. It’s made of durable cotton canvas. It comes with suede trim, classic pinstriped lining, and matte nickel hardware. It gives you a stylish casual look. Therefore, it’s suitable for both men and women. Moreover, the purse comes with anti-theft features as well. In fact, it features slash proof shell and strap, RFID security, and locking zippers. There are two front locking pockets along with one rear zippered pocket, so you can access your items with ease. You can keep your travel umbrella, travel water bottle, or sunglasses in two exterior mesh expansion pockets. The purse comes in four colours, including oatmeal, indigo, sage, and pewter. Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Crossbody Hobo Bag This model has the same stylish cotton canvas design, matte nickel hardware, suede trim, and classic pinstriped lining as the Heritage Tour bag. There is plenty of room in the main compartment. It can hold all your day to day travel items. Also, the purse comes with a zippered RFID pocket. Moreover, there are two open top wall pockets as well. Additionally, it is also packed with one lockable exterior front pocket. There are two slash proof interchangeable shoulder straps. Therefore, you can change the purse from a travel shoulder bag to a crossbody bag if you want. These models are available in four colours: pewter, Indigo, wine, and two-tone indigo & pewter. Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Essential Messenger Bag If you want to purchase a smaller crossbody bag to carry a wallet, a phone, and the essentials, you should consider this one. In spite of its smaller profile, this bag still offers great capacity. It offers you loads of compartments to keep your things organized. Moreover, it gives you plenty of room for essentials. When using it, you needn’t the bulk of a larger bag. You will get all of the best anti-theft features from this bag. They include slash-proof fabric and straps, RFID blocking pockets, three outer zippers, and lockdown feature. The bag is made of hard wearing fabric. These bags are available in 19 colours and various pattern designs. NeatPack Crossbody Bag for Women with Anti-Theft & RFID Pocket This model is stylish, compact, and practical. It is one of the best crossbody travel purses on the market now. It comes with three front exterior pockets. There are zip anti-theft pockets in the main compartment. You will also get plenty of space for your light clothing, electronics, and more. It