a bag affair

Spring bags are turning up everywhere! Some are canvas, woven, striped, bold prints and colors -- but regardless, there's something for everyone.

Kate Spade "Horseshoe Cove Scout" - Zappos

I'm obsessed with this bag. I was reluctant about the size, as it is kind of smaller. I made the mistake of putting my stuff in it (which really just consists of a large wallet and the case for my sunglasses). Of course, it fit really well and that made me want it even more. I cracked and bought it at Von Maur. It's a coated canvas and patent neon coral, and the color in real life is so gorgeous. It's a nice alternative to my neon orange Cambridge Satchel because this is much more feminine and it has a magnetic close. Plus, it has a polka dot lining (typical Kate Spade adorableness). 

Kate Spade "Point Breeze Mini Coal" - Bloomingdale's 

Here's another Kate Spade from her spring collection. So many of her spring bags are amazing, so it was hard to choose just a few to post. I could really do an entire post about all of them, but this is an interesting take on the straw tote. I love the chain strap -- gives it a much more glamorous feel. I absolutely love straw bags, especially when they're striped. 

Marc by Marc Jacobs "Striped Sami Tote" - Bloomingdale's 

This bag is actually not black, but navy. It's a beautiful, nautical beachy tote, spacious and roomy for all of your mild-weathered needs. It's straw and leather woven, and the colors are so great you could probably wear this in other seasons as well.

Rebecca Minkoff "Studded Affair"- Bloomingdale's 

I will probably always have a love affair with studs. This bag is lady-like and the perfect crisp white spring shade, but I absolutely love the mini spikes to toughen things up. This is an updated version of her black studded bag last fall with the gold hardware.

Kate Spade "Delavan Terrace Little Nadine" - Piperlime 

Kind of like an Hermes picnic basket? So cute.

Marc by Marc Jacobs "Solid Straw Top Handle"- Piperlime

So far Piperlime is the only place that has this bag -- and it's on order until May. Looks like it might be worth the wait. It's a fantastic size, simple and with a shoulder strap and a longer strap. I love the two tones of black leather with straw. 

Tillary canvas bucket bag- J.Crew

J.Crew never disappoints in clothes, jewelry or bags, and this Tillary bag is no different. I held it in person, and the leather is super soft and a very vibrant green. I love the navy stripe. It's a super preppy bag, but imagine it with a leather jacket or some moto ankle boots.

Cooperative Mixed Media Tote- Urban Outfitters

Trendy neon and a nice beige canvas only for $59. This is one of my favorite bags at Urban right now. I haven't seen it come through the store yet, but it's still available online (for now, anyway). I predict this to be a big seller.

Rebecca Minkoff "MAB Mini Straw"- Saks

If ever there was a springy bag designed for girls who like their accessories to have an attitude (i.e.- me!), this is it. I love the juxtaposition of tough with light and airy straw bag. The inside is leopard too (drool!)!! Bonus: It looks to be super expensive, but it's really not. 

Daybook Mini Satchel- Anthropologie

A Marni-style bag with an Anthro price tag! Score. 

Happy shopping! xox 

gingham chanel and other things i can't afford

Seeing new Chanel bags and jewelry is like being a diabetic in a candy store. At least for me, because I cannot afford any of this. It is beautiful to admire from the safe distance of my computer, however. 

Enjoy! Don't drool all over your keyboard. 

xox

Jessi Lou

Thanks to Sarah Andersen at Nordstroms Seattle for these pictures.

the first post.

This is my first blog post and this is my first blog. I was opposed to the idea ever since the blogosphere craze began. Yet, oddly enough, I read the fashion blogs like it's my job (and I wish it was).

I work at Urban Outfitters. I am in charge of the accessories. This is a perfect fit for me because I love shoes, bags, and jewelry.

My favorite shoes in the entire world. The Marc Jacobs Mouse Flats. I WILL own these one day. "Marc" my words.

Miu Miu daisy clogs SS/10. Looooove. Probably won't afford anytime soon. :(

My beloved Chanel Diamond Stitch handbag. The only real "lady-like" thing I own.

My favorite. I've had this Marc by Marc Jacobs Faridah hobo for two years now, and I love it more everyday. Truly a classic with infinite "wear-with-all."

As you can see, I have an obsession. I am a 22-year-old writing major living in an area where everyone carries the same (Coach) bags and wears the same (Ed Hardy, Hollister, Abercrombie, Express) clothes. See also: hell.

I have always thrived on being different. I am drawn to things that are both chic and stand the test of time, and things that are just plain strange that most would consider ugly. Anything that tells a story and has a personality, I adore. I plan to showcase these items from thrift stores, runways, random strangers, etc. With this blog, I want to celebrate my inspirations as well. I hope you enjoy reading, and I hope to reach out to like-minded individuals who share my love for uniqueness.