Military Time: The Utilitarian Trend for Your Wrist

A lot of designers are showing a version of the utilitarian or military trend for spring. We are seeing the look in oversized anoraks and military jackets, cargo pants and boots. One of our favorite ways to incorporate this utility look into your wardrobe for spring is with a menswear watch in heavy duty materials such as rubber and stainless steel. We breakdown our two favorite utility watches below.

Our first choice is the original utility watch - The Timex Military Watch. J. Crew gives this watch a makeover this year, with a plethora of nylon watch bands to mix and match with in every color of the rainbow - yellow, blue, cream, neon orange and our pick - "moss" which is an army green. J. Crew describes it as a mix of modern and traditional. Its style was taken from the 1940s and features a strategically distressed face with modern hardware and a red dial. The nylon strap and oversized face def. makes this watch masculine, but we love how J. Crew is pairing it with pencil skirts and embellished tee-shirts in their catalog and online. The watch with black strap is $150 and the additional strap is an extra $20 and you can only get it at J. Crew

Our second pick is the Michael Kors Rubber Watch in Green, and although it still screams menswear, its less literal military and more fashionable. We love the oversized style of all the Michael Kors watches, and this one is no different. Rubber, especially in green, is so unexpected in an MK watch and gives his classic style an update you'll just be dying to get your hands on. We think this one is equal parts tough and chic and would complement a cute safari dress or jeans, a tee and a military jacket. Water resistant, the watch is also truly practical utilitarian. You can find it for $195 at ShopBop.

Fashionably Yours,

H

Daily Bling - Sunday, February 28th

I recently finished the first season of Mad Men. I know I am SOOO behind, I know I am like SOOOO late to the obsession, however, it doesn't make me less of a fan now does it? I've become completely enamored with the put-together early 60s style of the women on the show from Betty Draper to Joan to even Rachel Menkin. Part of me wishes women still wore those full skirts and matched their lipstick to their nail polish and had a hat for every dress.

Even though we are living in a Mad-Men-less world that doesn't mean you can't take fashionable cues from the show and incorporate them into your own wardrobe. CAUTION: Do not go to crazy here, or you will look like its Halloween. A great way to incorporate the "Jackie O" style into your look is with today's daily bling. The J. Crew Pearl Jewel Box Earrings (doesn't the name even just scream Mad Men?) are vintage in feel and style and will add a sophistacted touch to any look. The dark gold, oversized pearl and crystal details make these a true "vintage store find" only you don't have to rummage the racks or through your grandmother's closet because they are available at Jcrew.com. Pair them with one of J.Crew's cashmere sweaters and their skinny leg "Minnie Pant" and be your very own Betty Draper.

Fashionably Yours,
H

The Daily Bling - Saturday, February 27th

This weekend, I am taking a haitus from NYC and visiting my parents in the suburbs. One thing I love to do when I am home is go to the mall and one of my favorite stores to check out there is Forever 21. Although Manhattan does have the best options for shopping arguably in the whole country, there is something about getting into a car and going to the local mall. I rarely shop Forever 21 in the city because its such a picked-over zoo (sorry, but it is) so I tend to find all my F21 treasures at the clean and quiet location at our local mall.

Today's Daily Bling is only $8.80!!! Talk about a deal ladies! F21 is calling this the "Knotted Multi Chain Necklace" and its available on their website in case you don't feel like searching for it in the store. Its a very funky take on your classic gold chain look and we think it would look really cute with a black crew neck tee-shirt and pink tulle skirt combo (which I am sure you could find at forever 21 too).

Fashionably Yours,
H

Daily Bling - Friday, February 26th

Not sure what the weather is like in your area today, but in NYC its a snow storm! Its so bad my office actually closed, which believe me, hardly ever happens.

In honor of the snow, I thought I'd pick something really icy for today's Daily Bling. The CC Skye Pave Chain Link Ring fits the bill if you ask me. At first glance I thought this was actually a cuff but when I realized it was a ring, I knew it was daily-bling-worthy! 18K gold plated with pave crystal details, this would make a really chic middle or right finger ring.

CC Skye Pave Chain Link Ring is $150 and available at ShopBop!

Fashionably Yours,

H

Spring Neutrals Decoded

We have been hearing a lot about the neutral, monochromatic trend for Spring. We are seeing the high-end and affordable stores showing a lot of blushes, khakis, lights grays and metallics layered together. As we divert from our basic winter black I thought I'd help decode how to wear these monochromatic looks without looking too matchy-matchy or too clashy-clashy. When done right, you will be looking nifty in neutral for Spring!

Look 1: Golds and Khakis

The key to complementing a simple khaki shift is with touches of white and gold. We've brought this simple Ann Taylor loft dress to life with gold embellishments and a feminine necklace that makes this outfit the perfect updated work look.

Dress: Ann Taylor Loft

Shoes: Miu Miu

Necklace: J. Crew

Bracelets: Kendra Scott

Bag: J. Crew

Look 2: Greys and Silvers

Grey is still an it color for Spring but instead of your winter charcoals it’s a lighter, airy version of itself. White contrasts beautifully against this light grey shade and silver gives the look a punch. Love this for birthday lunch with a group of girlfriends or at a more casual, creative work environment.

Blazer and Tee Shirt: BopBasics, ShopBop.com

Pants: Tibi

Necklace: Ann Taylor Loft

Bag: Botkier

Shoes: Rachel Rachel Roy

Look 3: Blush and Nude

Blush is my absolute favorite color for Spring. It’s a cooler version of pink, feminine yet not girly, this dusty shade looks relaxed and pretty. I love the idea of matching this silk blush top with casual denim shorts and scarf and dressing it up with a pair of sexy pumps and small clutch to take the look into evening.

Top: J. Crew

Shorts: J. Crew

Scarf: J. Crew

Earrings (remember these?): J. Crew

Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Bag: Marc Jacobs

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Thursday, February 25th

Today's Daily Bling is courtesy of my very fashionable grandmother who recently gave me a little tip that Ann Taylor Loft's jewelry line for Spring was worth checking out. After browsing their website I have chosen my favorite spring piece in the collection to bring to you, my lovely readers. (and believe me it was tough because there are so many affordable and gorg options to choose from...)

They are calling this necklace the Pink Stone Necklace with Ribbon Tie and you can check out all the details on it here. The best word to describe this necklace is pretty. I think if you tie it on, you will feel immediately girly and sweet. The peachy/pink shades and crystal and pearl detailing give it a decidedly happy vibe and I could just see it laying gorgeously on a crisp white summer sun dress. And doesn't that just sound nice?

The Ann Taylor Loft Pink Stone Necklace with Ribbon Tie is available at www.anntaylorloft.com for $39.50.

Fashionably Yours,

H

Step Into Spring with Christian Louboutin

Christian Louboutin Striped Damask Pump

Christian Louboutin. What is there really to say? The name speaks for itself. The shoes tell the story. I don't think anyone else knows how to do a sexier pump than this line, and its clear why women feel the need to drop their entire weekly pay check on a pair. If Chanel is the queen of the handbag dare I say Louboutin is king of the pump.

I am feeling really down about the NYC weather right about now. I am so over the wind, the snow, the sleet and the bitter cold. These shoes scream summer and I think if you have the cash for a total fun pair of super shoes, these could really dress up nearly every summer sundress from bohemian to maxi, night out to backyard bbq.

Although these are a great inspiration, I don't think its very realistic that I (or many others) will be dropping the $850 it takes to bring these babies home. Luckily, bright patterned pumps is a big trend for Spring/Summer and there are plenty of options in the $100 and under range.

The Two Lips Patterned Pumps for only $89 dollars and available at www.VictoriasSecret.com follow the same patterned look of the Louboutin version and have a nice platform to give you feet a sexy boost.

The Nine West Aleksy Pump are not multi-colored like the Louboutin's but offer the same sexy, shape and use of a bright color and patterned material that will instantly off-set a simple neutral or complementing bright colored look. And at only $79 these are basically a no brainer.

Finally our "wild card" the Colin Stuart for Victoria's Secret Tye Day Pump (in the white/green/pink version) although a diversion in the style of the Louboutin's have a similar island, boho feel and will make a statement with a summer look. The combo of the cotten tye dye embellishment with leather heel and platform also remind me of the dressy/undressy feel of the Louboutins.

Which bright statement shoe will you be rocking this summer?

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Wednesday, February 24th

Every once in a while a piece comes along that truly makes a statement, transforms an outfit and is versatile enough that you can wear it over and over again in different exciting ways. And that's exactly what today's Daily Bling is. And that's why I will be heading to Banana Republic today after work to pick up the Streamer Necklace at the very affordable price of $60.

Ever just know that a jewelry item is going to be your new favorite before you even get your hands on it and start dreaming up about all the outfits you will be wearing it with? Well, thats how I felt as soon as I saw this little beauty today. It will look sophisticated yet sexy with a black tube dress, a pair of spiky heels and long pony or on a white wife beater with a red boyfriend blazer and skinny jeans. I love the 12 inch bib length and how the tassle details in the front are also featured on the clasp. I'll be wearing it right now in the dead of NYC winter and then probably all year round. Only thing I got to do it make sure I don't overdo it.

Ladies, today's daily bling is truly a no brainer. It's a never regret purchase. So scoop your's up here and thank me later!

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Tuesday, February 23rd

It must be said that there are two things that I cannot resist when it comes to jewelry: 1) small gold necklaces 2) personalization. So its pretty clear to see why I am dying over the Zoe Chicco Personalized Yellow Gold Initial Necklace. I love yellow gold because it look so rich against nearly every skintone. One of my favorite everyday looks is to layer a bunch of small gold necklaces. Currently I am wearing a tiny diamond star, a little yellow elephant with pink and green crystals and a yellow disk with diamond "H". I would love to add a second H to my collection - this one above - because the font of the letter is just dainty and sweet enough that it would look demure and classy on it own OR really funky layered with my other menagerie of yellow gold chains.

I also think personalized necklaces like this make a terrific gift for a mom, sister or best friend. I love the idea of gifting a new mom an intial necklace with her new baby's initial and could totally see Kourtney Kardashian wearing a little "m" to honor her newborn, Mason. (too bad we aren't friends or else that's what I would scoop up for her!)

The Zoe Chicco Personalized Yellow Gold Initial Necklace is $250 and is available at www.maxandchloe.com on either a 15 or 17 inch chain.

Fashionably Yours,

H

Best Accessorized - BAFTA Edition

Audrey Tautou in Lanvin at 2010 BAFTA Awards

Coverage from this year's BAFTA awards (or the UK's Oscars as they like to call it) really have left me uninspired. I always look forward to the BAFTA's as the stars usually forgo typical "red carpet" choices and take a risk with their look. Shorter, trender dresses and fun accessorizing is the name of the game.

Among the snooze-fest that was the looks I have so far seen, I am loving the little ray of light that is Audrey Tautou in a pink Lanvin dress with pops of red accessories. Her stylist did her right - the red shoes, handbag and lips offset the redcarpet and complement her feminine, flouncy pink dress perfectly. I dont think everyone can pull off a pink/red look but here Audrey shows you can wear colors that clash without looking a hot mess! Bravo, Audrey!

Until the Oscars...
H

Gilt Groupe Accessory Sales - Week of Feb. 22

We wanted to share some great Gilt Groupe accessory sales this week. Let us know what you pick up!

Monday, Feb. 22 - Jewelry by Linda Levinson and Nancy Cohen; Gurhan Jewlery
Tuesday, Feb. 23 - Jewelry by KEP
Wednesday, Feb 24 - Cole Haan Handbags and Shoes; Jewelry by Fiona Paxton and Page Sargisson
Thursday, Feb 25 - D&G Watches and Jewelry; Calvin Klein, Sergio Rossi and D&G and Dolce and Gabbana Accessories; Judith Leiber Jewelry
Friday, Feb 26th - Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry

http://www.gilt.com/

Enjoy!
H

The Daily Bling - Monday, February 22nd

Judith Ripka for QVC Sterling Cushion Cut Lotus Ring in Whisky Quartz

Today's daily bling is actually bling(s) as it comes in the form of two! My favorite luxury jewelry designer is without a doubt Judith Ripka. Over the years I have been lucky enough to acquire a few of her couture pieces but about 3 years back I also discovered her Sterling Silver Collection on QVC and was wowed! A lot of her designs in her QVC line look very similar to her couture sterling silver line and are a fraction of the price. Most of the pieces feature real gemstones and the only major difference is that the diamond accents in the QVC line are not diamond, but diamonique - QVC's own version of CZ. In many of the pieces however, the diamonique detailing is so small, that no one would EVER guess the difference.

Last night, I was pleased to find a Judith Ripka three-hour special on QVC (much to my boyfriend's disapointment. He can handle Keeping Up With The Kardashians, he is okay with Glee, hey, he even lets me watch Teen Mom - but home shopping is where it ends!). I didn't order anything but had I, it would have been the Sterling Cushion Cut Lotus Ring in Whisky Quartz (featured above). Its beautiful and affordable at $120. Alas, my size was sold out but its still available in certain sizes here: http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.item.J35999.desc.Judith-Ripka-Sterling-Cushion-Shaped-Lotus-Design-Ring.

Also, it reminds me much of this beauty from her couture line, the Large Fontaine Ring in Canary but this one is almost 8x the price!

Whatever your budget Judith has something gorgeous for you! Check out http://www.judithripka.com/ to browse her couture line or http://www.qvc.com/ to check out her Sterling Silver collection.

Fashionably Yours,
H

The Daily Bling - Sunday, February 21st

Sunday's Daily Bling is in honor of everyone's favorite reality tv sisters - the Kardashian girls! Tonight is the season finale of Keeping Up With The Kardashians on E! Network (10 pm EST) and I thought what better way to pay homage to the crazy season its been by featuring a HAWT piece of jewel fit for Kim, Khloe, Kourtney and even Kris.

If you watch the show as much as I do, you probably know one of the signature pieces the girls sport are oversized, blinged out hoops. Adriana Orsini's Pave Hoop Earrings 2 1/4 inch are fit for the Kardashian klan for that reason. I loved these so much when I found them on SaksFifthAvenue.com today (Adriana Orsini is exclusive to Saks) that I may just have to scoop these up this week. In case you don't know much about Adriana Orsini, her line of jewelry is a terrific, affordable alternative if you are looking for a diamond-like look that looks believable and is really stylish on trend. Wearing her line is a great way to BLING up any outfit or help you test run a look you may end up wanting to invest in in diamonds eventually.

We could totally see the Kardashian's wearing these on the red carpet or just hanging out in Dash in Calabasas.

Adriana Orsini Pave Hoop Earrings 2 1/4 inch (crystal and rhodium plated) are available exclusively at www.SaksFifthAvenue.com and retail for $200.

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Saturday, February 20th

Being that its the weekend (woohoo) I thought I'd bring you something really blingy for our daily bling! The Molly Sims Grayce Collection for HSN is surprisingly gorgeous, and the Crystal Point Cuff Bracelet in Rosetone is one of my favorite pieces in the collection. As you can see from the image I had to pull off from the HSN website, its "almost sold out" and my advice to you is that you grab your's before there gone (hey, they have flex pay!)

I love this bracelet because its really girly and really dresses up an outfit. It's a great Saturday night piece whether you are hitting the club with your girls or going to a nice dinner with your man. I purchased this bracelet a few months back and the quality is really nice. Even though its not real rose gold, its not tin-y either and looks really substantial on the wrist. The crystals are small enough that they could be believable for diamonds - that is if anyone would believe you dropped that much on a rose gold cuff. The bracelet also comes in goldtone, silvertone and hermaite tone, but I think their is something so feminine yet luxe and art deco feeling about the rosetone, so it would definitely be my pick metal.

The Grayce by Molly Sims Crystal Point Bracelet is available exclusively at HSN and www.hsn.com and retails at $89.50

Fashionably Yours,

H

Shoe Lust! Spring's Military Inspired Trend for the Feet

Giuseppe Zanotti Lace Up Open Toe Booties

How do you have a blog with the word "booties" in the name and NOT review booties? We recently came across the Giuseppe Zanotti Lace Up Open Toe Booties on ShopBop.com and fell in love. Alas, at $875 these little puppies won' t be making their way into our closet this Spring but do provide a lovely inspiration piece that we will think back on when we try to find a replica (I just know Nine West is going to have something like this... haven't found them yet but I can feel it!)

What better way to embrace the military trend we saw on the runaways with a military inspired shoe, that isn't too heavy duty for spring. Made of canvas and with an open toe, these cuties could be worn from early spring - early fall and instantly update your look! We think they'll look chic with a pair of gray leggings and a white tunic and long vest now, with a flirty floral baby doll dress in summer (think 90s grunge, My So Called Life Style), and with tights, an lbd, and fur vest for Fall.

If you are willing to shell out the cash, you can purchase these now at http://www.shopbop.com/.

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Friday, February 19th

Today's daily bling is brought to you by one of my favorite retailers, J. Crew. I have had a serious love affair with J. Crew for some time, back to the days of roll neck sweaters and ill-fitting khakis. In the past two - three seasons however, J. Crew hasn't been only one of my loves, but really more like an absolute must-have, go-too, essential main-stay in my wardrobe. One of the reasons for this is because of the ABSOLUTELY bea.u.ti.ful jewelry collection they have put out. Affordable yet fashionable, I am constantly wearing and getting compliments on my J. Crew jewelry.

The reason I love the Cabochon Chandelier Earrings is for their feminine vintage appeal with an ultra modern twist. The earrings come in crystal and metallic blush and I am DEF. partial to the metallic blush version (featured above). I have been starting the arduous yet super fun process of building my spring wardrobe and a palette of blushes, pinks, khakis and greys are rounding out all my picks. These earrings would look great with a slicked back bun, long cardigan and tulle skirt in shades of blush or with loose curls, an anorak and skinny leg khakis. (all from J. Crew of course)

The Cabochon Chandelier Earrings retails for $68 and are available on www.jcrew.com

Fashionable Yours,

H

My new (old) favorite mini bag

So this is a long over due topic I have been wanting to write about. In fact, based upon my experience shopping on opening day at the NYC 59th street location, I have seriously thought about starting a blog just to post about the fab finds I picked up from the Jimmy Choo for H&M collection. Now, I know this is old news. And you probably heard about it months ago from plenty of other people. But let me explain why its still a relevant collection for me. I give you exhibit A: my Jimmy Choo for H&M zebra leather clutch. I don't know what the official name of it was, but it should be PERFECTION in a EVENING BAG.

Let me tell you why I love it. It's a little bit rocker, its alittle bit sexy, its a lot of look in a small package. Its got animal print + studs, plus gold chain strap. I could totally see my favorite reality star, Kim Kardashian rocking this with one of those sexy bandage dresses that are showing up in her Bebe Collection. I also have rocked this with jeans and a white tee-shirt and it totally looked chic.

Although you can't get your hands on this bag anymore (sad face) lucky for you I have spotted a few alternatives out there and saksfifthavenue.com had a ton of fun ones to choose from in their "mini bag" section. See link below: http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductArray.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306443933&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395222441&bmUID=1266490956012&use_parent=1&SECSLOT=LN-Mini+Bags

I'm partial to the Kate Spade Quilted Leather Lauralee Bag (love pewter accents) and the Carlos Falchi (huge fan of his!) Embossed Micro-fiber Mini Shoulder Bag. If budget isn't an issue then I'd definitely go for the Dolce & Gabanna Miss Martini Patchwork Pony. Sexy!

(From Left to Right, Kate Spade, Carlos Falchi, Dolce & Gabanna, Rebecca Minkoff)

Which mini bag is your fav?

Fashionably Yours,

H

The Daily Bling - Thursday, February 18

I have a confession. I wish I was a hippie at heart. Boho Chic Style Moment? I was all over it. Yoga? I totally dig it. Sienna Miller? She is my girl crush. Organic Food... well maybe that's where it stops.

The inner hippie in me absolutely loves Nicole Richie's House of Harlow 1960 collection for this reason. Beyond being the ultimate boho chic icon, Nicole has created a wearable, high-quality and absolutely irresistable line of jewlery and accessories that we are all over (who didn't love her orginal gladiator cuffs?).

Today's daily bling is the House of Harlow 1960 Abalone Station Necklace. Part hippie chic, part sante fe, this fab choker necklace is a great transitional piece that could be worn over a turtleneck sweater dress now or with a tan and simple white sundress come spring/summer. Shopbop.com (where its available for purchase at $150 price tag) describes it as a piece to pull your whole outfit together and I couldn't agree more. This little beauty is a classic example of how an accessory can transform your whole look!

The House of Harlow 1960 Abalone Station Necklace can be purchased at http://www.shopbop.com/abalone-station-necklace-house-harlow/vp/v=1/845524441860622.htm?fm=search-shopbysize.

Fashionably Yours,
H

Welcome to Booties, Bags and Baubles!

Hello World!

Welcome to Booties, Bags and Baubles a different kind of fashion blog dedicated to the blingiest, frilliest, shiniest and prettiest accessories on the planet. Who are we? Holly and Cathy are just a couple of beauty publicists from NYC with a very unhealthy obsession with accessories, style, fashion, beauty and reality tv celebrities. In 2010, we decided to finally put our passion for purses to some good (well we hope, good) by starting a blog dedicated to those finishing touches which are really the most FUN part of putting together any outfit!

Stay tuned for new collection reviews, celebrity trend news, our daily "bling" (favorite jewelry pick for the day that is), Q&As with industry leaders and other fashionable new yorkers and our otherwise daily musings...

Fashionably Yours,

H and C