Thursday, 04 April 2019 21:11

Bikini Trends: From the Runway to the Beach

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Photo by Unsplash

As the days grow longer and the weather grows warmer, swimwear trends are slowly edging their way to the forefront of the fashion scene. Like any other in-vogue fashion trend, popular swimsuit design changes from year to year. You can root through your closet for last year’s classic style, but if you want to fill your summer wardrobe with eye-catching bikinis and chic one-pieces, you have to keep up with the current cuts and styles.

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Photo by Unsplash

Thankfully, swimwear fashion debuts early. In fact, Miami Swim Week premiered some of the top runway trends in swimsuit fashion that will be all over the beach this year. Here are some of the best styles you should be looking out for, inspired by runway designs.

High-Cut Legs

Although high-cut legs are not a new trend in swimwear fashion, they are a particularly flattering one. Falling higher on the hips, this style elongates your legs and lengthens your entire figure. They can appear in high-waisted or low-rise bottoms, but either way, they are particularly complimentary on almost any body type.

This season, high-cut legs will become especially prominent. You’ll see them paired with a high-rise waistband and a skimpy cut, creating a look that extends your figure while simultaneously drawing attention to your backside. 

Retro

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Photo by Unsplash

Trends are nothing if not cyclical, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that retro styles continuously work their way in and out of popular fashion. This season, retro is back again, primarily featuring styles that evoke 80’s and 90’s fashion. Sporty tankinis, ruching along the bodice, and vivid prints and neon colours will be prominent by the seaside. Polka dots and zippered details will be especially popular, along with suits that feature a little more coverage. Accessorized correctly, you could even pull off many of these timeless styles as a trendy streetwear outfit., you could even pull off many of these timeless styles as a trendy streetwear outfit.

Animal Print

Animal prints have been bringing their wild but neutral look to the runway for several seasons, and it doesn’t appear that they’ll be stopping any time soon. At the same time, animal rights are of the utmost importance in the current climate, so faux fabrics are the new norm. Thankfully, genuine animal skin isn’t a concern when it comes to your swimwear, allowing you to embrace this stylish look without a hint of guilt.

Classic leopard print and sleek snake print will be popular choices for trendy bikinis and one-pieces as a way of bringing flashy, animalistic flair to your day at the beach. A printed top or bottom can be paired with an article in a solid colour for a wholly sophisticated look.

Knotted Details

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Photo by Unsplash

Basic women’s designer swimwear doesn’t cut it anymore this season. While a sleek, no-frills look used to the height of fashion, swimwear trends are moving towards more intricate designs. Knotted details and elaborate ties are taking over the swimwear scene. Minimalism is out, embellishments that allow the suit to double as a top are in.

Stringy ties that wrap around your body multiple times are a particularly popular way to embrace this trend. If you still veer towards a simpler style, knotted waistbands and decorative ties can also allow you to add this style to your wardrobe. Either way, this season’s trends are moving towards showy adornments, rather than the austere style that was so prevalent in the past.

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Photo by Unsplash

Embrace the swimwear trend that resonates with your everyday sense of style, find a cut that hugs your body shape perfectly, and go out and rock it confidently!

Tuesday, 19 March 2019 10:14

5 Ways to Wear Playsuits

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Photo by Donald Giannatti. Unsplash

Playsuits are a versatile, chic and effortless way to show your style for many casual and more dressy occasions. From more laid-back looks to amped-up night out ensembles, playsuit outfits allow you to be creative and have fun with your wardrobe. Here are some ideas to help you find the perfect inspiration for your next playsuit ensemble:

Style With Statement Jewellery

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Photo By Becky Winner. Unsplash

Playsuits have an effortless chicness about them, and when you’re looking for ways to style it, sometimes you need to look no further than your jewellery collection.

Find your favourite pair of standout earrings or a statement necklace and just like that, you’re ready for the day! We love the idea of using dazzling jewellery to amp up the fun of an otherwise more understated playsuit, or helping to bring out some of the accent colours and prints, with carefully selected bangles, earrings, or a sweet necklace.

SHE’S ON THE WEDGE OF GLORY

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Photo by Sonnie Hiles. Unsplash

What’s fantastic about a go-to playsuit is that it pairs as beautifully with casual sandals as any other kind of footwear you have in your closet. Figuring out how to wear a playsuit for a night-time engagement can be as easy as trading your flats for a pair of comfortable wedges.

We love the pairing of sophistication and dressiness with the 'comfortability' and ease of wedges. Not to mention, they’ll make your legs look endless in your favourite playsuit!

Show Your Stripes

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Photo by Daryn Stumbaugh. Unsplash

The versatility of stripes in today’s stylish patterns is spectacular, and we love to take full advantage of how they give a jump suit a little something extra for any occasion. Stripes sometimes have a reputation for being tricky to tackle, but figuring out how to wear a striped suit is super fun and can be an ultra-flattering and fabulous look!

From understated diagonal stripes to bold horizontal patterns, stripes are a classic and an essential part of our wardrobes all year long. It doesn’t take much to accessorise a striped playsuit for daytime and when you’re ready to head out for the evening, simply add some dazzling jewellery and throw on a moto jacket or breezy kimono to up your look’s sophistication.

Hats Off

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Photo by Kal Visuals. Unsplash

Our hats are off to any stylish trendsetter who loves to wear a fabulous oversized hat. These are an especially great accessory for an eccentric outfit that reads trendy and beautiful.

Leave your hair down with some loose waves and keep your other accessories to a minimum when you opt for a fun floppy or a more structured hat. Between your cute playsuit and lovely hat, you’ll be stealing the spotlight wherever you go!

Belt It Up

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Photo by Nichole Tumbaga. Unsplash

Sometimes, adding some unexpected structure can give a flowy or long jumpsuit a more flattering and chic look. We love the idea of taking a beachside outfit to a dressed up, office-appropriate look by just adding a blazer and a simple belt.

If you’ve been wondering how to get away with wearing a playsuit to the office, consider a longer jumpsuit or more chic and tailored option with a belt, and you’re all set. For a daytime boho chic look, an unexpected tassel at the waist can give your look an effortless feel.

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Photo by gbarkz. Unsplash

How do you usually like to style your playsuits? Let us know in the comments!

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Photo by Kyle Loftus. Unsplash

With winter drawing to a close, and the weather getting warmer every day remember that “spring cleaning” shouldn’t just apply to organising your home or office — it should also be a part of your spring skin care routine. The unfortunate truth is that while spring may beautify the outdoors, it tends to wreak havoc on skin. Environmental changes can irritate acne-prone skin, dry out or irritate, and tighten skin as well.

There’s quite a bit to consider when it comes to skin care in spring. Outside temperatures, environmental conditions, and how much time you spend indoors versus how much you spend outdoors can have a tremendous impact on your skin’s health. That’s why the changing seasons give you the perfect opportunity to switch up your spring skin care routine.

Remember To Moisturise!

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Photo by Charisse Kenion. Unsplash

With more sunlight, higher temperatures, and increasingly dry air outdoors, every trip outside could pose a threat to the state of your skin. Regardless of the season, moisturising should be an essential part of your skincare routine. If you find your winter moisturiser a little too heavy for spring, consider switching to a light lotion during the day and a gel formula in the evening. Keep items like lip balm and mini hand lotions on-hand, especially if you know you’ll find yourself outdoors frequently.

Prepare For Warmer Weather

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Photo by Gian Cescon. Unsplash

While it’s vital to stay moisturised, increased heat and humidity can cause skin to produce more sweat, and as a result, more oil. For those with acne-prone skin, warmer weather often means clogged pores, irritation, and inflammation. You can tackle this as part of your spring skin care routine by opting for oil-free cleansers, toners, and serums. Water-based serums definitely help, as do products with lighter, natural ingredients. Also, as the seasons change and you’re outdoors for longer stretches of time, don’t forget to use broad spectrum sunscreen! If you’re going to be more active or you’re headed to the beach, consider using a water-proof sunscreen as well.

Read Your Labels - Tips On Ingredients

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Photo by Charisse Kenion. Unsplash

There are a number of natural, nourishing ingredients that can truly make the most of your spring skin care routine. However, skin care in spring is easy with products that address conditions like free radical damage and clogged pores.

In addition to natural antibacterial qualities, neem leaf extract contains bioflavonoids, potent antioxidants that can protect skin cells and prevent discoloration or signs of ageing. For warmer, sunnier conditions, shea butter protects skin’s natural barrier function, with lupeol blocking enzymes that degrade skin proteins. This helps reduce inflammation and absorbs UV radiation, maintaining skin’s firmness.

For an ingredient that combines powerful antioxidants with antimicrobial qualities, green tea extract can’t be beaten. While its antioxidants reduce free radical damage, green tea extract is also soothing, and can help reduce bacteria on the skin, preventing blemishes.

Make The Most Of Your Spring

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Photo by Deividas Toleikis. Unsplash

Spring is about renewal. It’s a time that encourages all of us to embrace the beauty of nature with each new day. It’s also an opportunity to make the most out of your spring skin care routine as you naturally become more active. So, be sure to choose soothing, natural products that enrich your journey through self-care.

Thursday, 24 January 2019 09:11

Natural Bridal Makeup Trends

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Photo by Taylor Harding Unsplash

Almost every bride-to-be says she wants to “look natural,” on her special day. The reality is, however, that appearing unfinished or as if you just woke up can leave you looking tired in your wedding pictures. Not to mention, with an elegant dress on, you want your face to complement your attire.

We want to help glam up your natural features while you get to still look like yourself. So, what can you do to look polished but avoid the caked-on makeup look? Here are a few simple ideas for how to rock the minimal makeup look.

Glowing And Radiant

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Photo by Anthony Tran Unsplash

There’s a special kind of beauty that comes from having sun-kissed skin. To pull off a glowing, wedding look, try using some bronzer where the sun would naturally kiss your skin – on your cheekbones, jaw, nose, and forehead. Don’t forget to add a little to your neck so everything looks even. After adding a dab of foundation and some concealer, it’s time to select your bronzer shade. Generally, your bronzer should be one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Brush a tiny bit on your wrist first to see if it makes your skin glow or if it looks fake.

If you have naturally dark skin, try using an amber bronzer. If you have a medium-complexion, try a rosy shade. For those brides with fair skin, stick to a honey colour. Always use a wide brush to apply your bronzer, as using a pointed or thin brush can create unsightly, defined streaks. For a softer, all-natural appearance, use an open fan brush and add the colour slowly, building up the shade until you’re happy with the look.

Metallic Glam

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Photo by Alvin Mahmudov Unsplash

Eye-shadow can scare off a lot of brides who want to keep things simple. Everything from gradients, glitters, and layers of colour can become overwhelming, but your eye makeup doesn’t have to be complicated. When you’re going for a natural wedding look, applying a few shades subtly can look stunning.

Add some shadows and metallic accents around your eyes. These colours can elevate your iris’ natural colour and give you a stunning smoulder. Metallic shades like gold and copper look vibrant and glamorous. You won’t have to do much else with your face if you perfect your eye makeup game. Finish the look with some eyeliner, mascara, and matte nude lipstick.

Pretty In Pink

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Photo by Tim Stagge Unsplash

The reason a little rose colour on your cheeks looks flattering is that everyone, no matter their skin colour, has some natural, pink undertones. Once you find the right shade for your skin tone, add some blush and see how it can instantly make you look youthful and bright. The last thing you want is to fade in the background of your wedding photos.

Swirl a small amount of blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Don’t forget to buff the colour out by using large circular motions. Adding your colour this way should create a natural-looking glow that brightens your face. Have fun with your blush, but don’t go overboard with it either.

Goddess Brows

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Photo by Marius Muresan Unsplash

If you’re one of the lucky ones who was born with thick and beautiful brows, let them be your main focus. A natural brow with glowing skin and a neutral lip can make a statement without all the other products or contouring. If you want to achieve full, natural eyebrows but your hair is on the lighter side, there a few tools and tricks you can use to make them appear more natural.

Before filling in the gaps of your eyebrows, use a spoolie or angled brow brush to gently and repeatedly brush your eyebrow hair upwards. After you fill in the gaps with an eyebrow pencil, you can brush your natural hairs upwards again to blend in the colour and control any wild hairs. When shaping your brows, it’s important to remember to stay away from dramatic or loud lines. Instead, take the time to carefully apply your colour to even out your natural shape.

Testing, Testing

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Photo by Element5 Digital Unsplash

Nothing is more natural than confidence. Therefore, you definitely want to test your makeup look before your big day. When it’s your first time in the makeup chair, try bringing inspirational photos you want to emulate or some images you saved on Pinterest. If you choose individuals who share your skin tone, hair colour, and eye colour, it may be easier to replicate the look.

When you bring samples to your test run, the makeup artist can give you expert feedback if certain details will or won’t work for you. Be clear about what you want, but stay open to your artists’ creativity. Once you’re happy with the result, you can let the makeup artist do their thing, and you can sit back and relax.

Be Yourself

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Photo by Brooke Cagle Unsplash

The last thing you want is for guests to arrive at your wedding and not be able to tell who is getting married. You want to look like yourself, no matter what makeup you choose to wear. For example, if you always sport a neutral lip, then stick to your signature look on the big day.

Perhaps even elevate the look and try using a lip stain in the colour you love instead of a lipstick. With all the drinking, dancing, and eating you will be partaking in, you shouldn’t have to worry about reapplying throughout the night. Also, try using a liquid, waterproof eyeliner instead of the one you regularly use so that your makeup stays intact, even if you tear up a few times throughout your big day.

The key is to look like an even more elegant, polished version of the person your significant other fell in love with. Be yourself, and you’re sure to wow the most important person at the wedding.

Tuesday, 11 December 2018 13:00

Take Your Winter Look From Day to Evening

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Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

When talking about winter fashion, most of us gravitate to oversized sweaters, thick coats and bulky scarves.

It’s important to have stylish pieces that not only keep you warm, but also express your personality.

With these women’s winter fashion essentials, you can easily go from running errands during the day, to a night on the town without having to stop at home.

The Classic “Little Black Dress”

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Photo by A L L E F . V I N I C I U S Δ on Unsplash

Most women have the classic little black dress tucked away in their closet. In the past, this timeless piece was saved for only the most important events. However, in recent years, the 'LBD' has become a more transitional wardrobe staple.

A unique little black dress can take you from the office to an evening soiree effortlessly. While at the office, try wearing a white button down blouse underneath or a bolero jacket over it. Remove the blouse and add jewellery to dress it up for after hours.

Pencil Skirts

Pencil skirts are the perfect way to look polished and put together at the office, but sleek and sexy when out with friends.

I recommend wearing a slim turtleneck with your skirt during the day and adding chic bomber jacket at night. Look for pencil skirts with lace cut-outs or classy embellishments – these additional details will add interest to your garment and make your overall outfit 'pop'.

A Silk Blouse

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Photo by Aleksander Borzenets on Unsplash

Silk blouses work at the office, on a date, at happy hour, and even at a Christmas party.

Just like the pencil skirt, a silk blouse masters the ability to make polished look sexy.

Keep it professional by wearing a tailored blazer to the office. At night, throw on a leather jacket to take the blouse from professional to flirty. Top it off with a pair of studded heels for the perfect combination of chic and edgy.

The Jacket

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Photo by Jonathan Francisca on Unsplash

Everyone has their winter coat, but the key to women’s winter fashion looks going from day to night is the right jacket.

From bombers to blazers and everything in between, the right jacket can add the perfect amount of flare. Some jackets everyone loves are navy blazers, camo jackets, and moto jackets.

So which jacket style do I recommend? It’s always going to be the jacket you feel most confident in because that’s the jacket that’s going to look best on you.

The Right Accessories

Even the chicest outfit needs a little bit of accessorising. Sometimes, simply adding a necklace or a different handbag is all it takes to go from daytime chic to night-time edge.

Accessorising can be hard. Over accessorise and you could look a little costume-ish, but under accessorise and you’ll look a little bare. Here’s a roundup of the perfect pieces to add, so that you look stylish, classy, and perfectly fashionable.

The Perfect Clutch

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Photo by Gianna Trewavas on Unsplash

The main difference between daytime and night-time looks is the bag you’re carrying.

During the day you want to keep all your essentials with you: your planner, lipsticks, laptop, tablet, and everything else but the kitchen sink, right? However, at night, you probably only need some lipstick, powder, a mirror, credit cards, and cash. Carrying less means you don’t need a large purse.

A clutch is the perfect size to hold all your night-time essentials while keeping the focus on your outfit. Swap out your daytime work tote for a smaller bag like this classic clutch.

Statement Jewellery

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Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

During the day, you want to keep your look focused on the business. This means you don’t want people distracted by your outfit. So, when the sun goes down, that means it’s time to play.

Swap out your simple pearls or studs for some eye-catching statement earrings. These look great with your unique 'LBD' or your silk blouse.

Jewellery is a quick, time saver when you’re trying to go from the office to happy hour.

Scarves And Wraps

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Photo by freestocks.org on Unsplash

It’s cold outside and you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. In fact, scarves and wraps encourage style. You’ll love the way your jacket pairs with a cashmere or infinity scarf. Wrap yourself in soft cashmere for warmth, style, and comfort.

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to choose dark colours. Don’t let the world forget about colour with winter styling.

Printed silk scarfs can add both colour and intrigue to an otherwise plain outfit. Don’t be afraid to switch out your daytime scarf for a fun night-time scarf.

Women’s winter fashion looks are loaded with ways to keep your spirits high even when the temperatures are low. Stay warm and happy shopping!

Written by Tess DiNapoli

Wednesday, 14 November 2018 13:26

The Perfect Purses for Autumn & Winter

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Photo by LEMUR on Unsplash

For many, autumn and winter are a new chance to swap out those summer and spring styles for cold weather classics, like fuzzy sweaters, knit hats, and purses that complement your seasonal attire. It’s time to start off fresh again, and breathe some life into your wardrobe! Don’t throw away all your old bags, but adding some new classics to your closet for the new season will help make it easy to create the wardrobe looks you wait all year long to show off! Here are a few purse styles and shapes that will help you upgrade your collection from old to new again - without completely modifying your current collection.

Micro-mini

Minimising is in and with these micro minis all you need is your phone, credit card, and a lip gloss for the perfect night out. This is ideal for those cocktail dress nights out on the town, where you don’t want to lug around your regular mini bag.

Unique Clutches

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Photo by Renata Fraga on Unsplash

The classic clutch never goes out of style. This autumn and winter, try a clutch that is a little more unique, like a hard plastic acrylic bag or a woven clutch - they make for an artistic touch to any outfit, and are a true statement pieces of their own. You can find simple envelope style cross-body clutches, as well as intricate textured designs. Try pairing these with a casual pair of jeans and blouse to really make it stand out.

Doctor Bag

This old-school look will have you replacing your classic totes with a much cleaner and more professional look. Totally roomy, you’ll love stuffing this bag with all your work and daily necessities! Match this with any office look or your date night apparel for a sophisticated style that’s versatile for your day-to-night lifestyles.

Belted Bags

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Photo by Melody Jacob on Unsplash

You may be thinking fanny pack at the mention of belt bags, but this strappy design is a great autumn accessory, especially when hitting up those outdoor activities and festivals. Out of sight and out of mind, the strap fits snug around your waist when adjusted properly and won’t steal the show away from your outfit. When you’re out and about, pair your belt bag with your favourite leggings and comfy sweater!

Decorative Pouches

Not quite a clutch, and not quite a wrist-let, this combo makes it easy to grab and go. The pouch design is also super flexible, and makes it easy to throw in all sorts of necessities without cramming items in like a puzzle to fit just right. This little bag makes the perfect accessory for those fun dates nights! Whether you’re hitting the local carnival, or go-kart raceway, this flexible bag will look great with your semi-casual attire.

Scarf Strap

Yes, that’s right! A purse with a scarf strap has the combination of fashion and convenience — all in one. The soft strap won’t weigh heavy on your neck and shoulder, and will look creative too! Scarf straps allow more room for creativity, with bold and exciting patterns, and colours that add a little something to your little black dress.

Circle Purse

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Photo by Roberto Nickson (@g) on Unsplash

Don’t be a square, and hop on board to this vintage comeback! The circle purse usually features a small wrist-let to hold onto, and a convenient snap closure. Circle bags have been massively popular this year, and it’s easy to see why - this retro look will pair great with a short and sassy dress for parties, and bring that old-school design we all dream about!

Lady Bags

Super clean and minimal, this classic purse means business. The sleek look will create a sophisticated style when matched with your office wear, and can easily go from work to happy hour! Dressed up or dressed down, it’s easy to match this feminine look to almost all your wardrobe styles.

Ring Handle Bag

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Photo by Flaunter.com on Unsplash

Switch out your evening clutches for something a little more modern, like the new ring handle bag. This look brings a retro vibe and makes going out more fun when you can let it hang from your wrist, rather than struggling to carry it tucked under your arm all night. This little sidekick will look classy when you match it with your sleek trouser suit outfits.

Bucket Bags

There’s a new modern twist to the traditional bucket bag. These bags keep their structured design, but offer a little more fashion to them with special designs like woven looks to add a little something to your everyday attire. The bucket style makes it easy to carry an assortment of things with you at all times. Whether you’re a mum on-the-go or a busy manager, this is the bag that has all the room you need.

Switch It Up

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Photo by MI PHAM on Unsplash

When you’re getting bored with last cycle’s purses, bags, and clutches, substitute your formerly classic styles with these new remixes.

Written by: Tess DiNapoli