purses Archives • modexlusive

Back to Basics: How to pack a big punch in a small bag

September 11, 2016

Last week I talked about going “Back to basics“, not that getting a new Marc Jacobs purse (from Valamode!) is going basic, but the trouble here is that I am a pack rat. Even when it comes to my purse. I carry everything with me at all times. Bandaid? Makeup? Hair clip? Purell? Yes, yes, yes! The question is, do I need it all?

My son Victor is 3.5 years old, which is why I am now embracing the SMALL PURSE MOVEMENT! Only those who have carried a diaper bag for 2.5 years will understand that a mommy can not in her right mind get away with carrying a small bag, if you’re going out for more than 1 hour with your kid. Victor and I are used to going out on full-day trips, so, being paranoid about forgetting anything, my diaper bag has always been overpacked and ready for any situation! It’s time to let go of the past and learn to pack a lean purse!

Last night, I used my small purse for the first time and packed:

cash, debit card, M/C and ID
compact mirror and lipstick
phone
gum
business cards

It’s truly all I needed for a night out! Not sure I could use this for a day trip with Victor though, but it’s a start!

Now for the juicy part. I bet you’re asking what the heck is Valamode? Well my friends, Valamode is Ottawa’s top authentic luxury online consignment shop! My friend Dia is the powerhouse behind this amazing local business. She scours the closets of fashionistas all over Canada and the US and makes your designer wishes come true! She is known as the luxury matchmaker. If you are on the hunt for a specific designer bag, watch, bangle, belt or shoes, she will find it for you! I always say, everyone needs a Dia in their life. On that note, if you’re looking to sell your designer goods, she can help you there too!

Dia runs her store online and in person, and typically hosts pop-ups around the city throughout the year. I always keep an eye out on her website or send her a note if I am looking for something in particular (a.k.a the small purse!) But here’s the thing, her stuff sells quickly, and she can barely keep up with postings on her site. So, my suggestion is if you like something, don’t sit on it, because it will sell.

I was dragging my feet on a tiny Burberry bag, and it sold in less than a week. But its okay, because something else will come around, and it did!

I got so many compliments on this little baby last night, and I can’t wait to welcome it into my closet!

#redcarpet look for International Humanitarian Fashion Week with Unesco @unesco @ihfashionweek

A photo posted by Ottawa • Canadian Blogger (@chantsy) on Sep 10, 2016 at 6:14pm PDT

Summer Accessories: The One Size Fits All of Fashion

Fashion

June 18, 2016

It doesn’t matter if you’re curvy, thin, tall, short, or somewhere in between, accessories are one facet of fashion that can be worn almost universally. And when something fits well, it has the power to make a woman feel great, causing her to exude confidence, which also makes her look great. After all, some believe confidence is the very best “accessory” one can have.

For summer, though, I’m going to be touching on some of my favorite tangible outfit embellishments that also happen to be trending for the SS 2016 season. Right now I’m loving the twist on classics, reemergence of nostalgic throwbacks, and the embellishments that are popping up everywhere. So, from jewelry to handbags, we’ll be exploring an odyssey of exciting accessories.

Choker Necklaces

Style experts from People agree: chokers have been on trend, and will continue to be through summer. And the more eye catching, the better. This high-end, multicolored choker from Rodrigo Otazu is said to feature a signature mix of glamour and roughness, with plenty of attention garnering bling. The varying hues and almost-hypnotic design of this necklace also ticks the bright and colourful kaleidoscope trend off the list.

Chunky Chain Bag

The runways were flooded with chain-embellished handbags for the SS 2016 season. And Stella McCartney, the designer known for combining cruelty-free luxury with the latest trends, delivers once more with her chain-adorned tote. From the office to cocktail hour to a weekend jaunt, this is the perfect bag for the everyday.

Tiara Hair Accessories

If you’re feeling regal, then hop on the tiara trend train this summer and don your favourite twinkling headpiece. I’m especially digging this gorgeous Imperial Moth gold and Swarovski crystal tiara from Vernissage Jewellery. Wear this with something as simple as a little black dress and show up in style for special occasions this season.

Bright Handbags

Glamour’s SS 2016 trend report favours bold bags for the season. These vibrant purses are the perfect summer accessory and will add that much-needed pop to your ensembles. Dolce & Gabbana has your bright bag bases covered with this simple, neon yellow satchel that exudes luxury.

Ankle Bracelets

Anklets are back this year, but they’re not all the dainty variety that we’re used to seeing. The runways have brought us chunky chains and double-layered, beaded ankle bracelets that defy the rules. I’ve chosen this unique Rosantica gold and turquoise anklet with filigree leaves that features a clasp fastener and toe loop for a beautiful boho look.

Botanical Jewelry

When designers like Anna Sui and Carolina Herrera have florals and animals incorporated into their accessories, you just know it’s only a matter of time before the trend catches fire. From perching parrots to oranges and lemons, the feathered and fruity are not off limits. Lyst’s fashion team knows that getting summer ready requires the right accessories, so I’ve chosen this gorgeous pair of D&G clip-on floral earrings embellished with crystals that fit in with the botanical trend.

This summer, no matter your size, luxurious accessories pack a universally flattering punch. And whether it’s a chic handbag or an eye-catching choker, this year’s trends are easier than ever to follow. I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about my favourite picks and will leave here inspired to have fun styling your wardrobe all season long.

Fall 2015 Favourites: Marsala, Gold and Camel

Mode Xlusive

September 14, 2015

I was never much a fan of the colour burgundy. It was one of the colours in my high school uniform, that could explain it. But now, I love it! On my nails, on my lips… and in a bag. I need a Marsala bag. Maybe it’s because Marsala is the official 2015 colour of the year, according to Pantone. We truly saw it everywhere this summer; in wedding bouquets and bridesmaid dresses no less. It’s funny how something can grow on you, once you get used to it and see it enough times.
On that note, I put together some of my favourite pieces for fall, including makeup, jewellery, accessories, shoes and bags! The colour pallet is mostly camel brown, gold, black and MARSALA! Have fun screen shopping!