Lifestyle

February 7th, 2013

LBD Valentine’s Day Looks

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and whether you’re single or spoken for, it’s time you thought seriously about your 2/14 ensemble. Sure, all you need is love, but if you ask us, a jaw-dropping number wouldn’t hurt, too.

Whether you’re toasting to the single life with your girls or living out a real life rom com, the key to looking hot on V-Day is the little black dress. That’s why this year, we’ve asked our readers to style a smokin’ LDB outfit, complete with a heart-stopping handbag. Peruse some of the looks we love so far, and don’t forget to submit your own while there’s still time. Psst … a Handbag Heaven prize pack is on the line!

For all things amore, check out our Gal’s Guide to Valentine’s Day!

By Beth in Fashion, Featured Handbags, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

January 22nd, 2013

Roses are Red, Voilets are Blue…

We have a lovely Valentine’s Day Guide waiting for you! Whether you’re looking for super-sweet outfit inspiration or you’re tickled pink over DIY heart decor, we’ve got you covered! Go ahead and mosey on over to our Gal’s Guide to Valentine’s Day, and feast your eyes on bags we fancy. Plus, nab some oh-so clever gift ideas for your main squeeze.

And did we mention that we’re running a Valentine’s Day contest with a chance to win an Austin Studded Foldover Tote + $50 to Handbag Heaven!? It’s our special gift to you. ;) Click here for more details!

By Molly in Contests & Giveaways, DIY Projects, Fashion, Featured Handbags, Lifestyle, Miscellaneous | Permalink | No Comments »

January 17th, 2013

Francophile Fever!

Do you dream of the Eiffel Tower? Is Amélie your favorite movie? Are wine and cheese your favorite indulgences? You may be a Francophile. I know I am! France is a beautiful country, full of beautiful people, and beautiful things — including fashion. French fashion has a soft, sweet feel that is extra feminine, and let’s face it, I am just a sucker for pretty, girly things! Here are a few of my favorite things…oui, oui!

paris

First of all, who wouldn’t fall in love with a landscape like this? Fashion inspiration is already forming in my brain as I gaze at the La Grande Roue and majestic Eiffel Tower…

french fashion

L: Oh là là! This lovely lady is wearing what I envision as the epitome of French fashion. A perfectly tailored, A-line dress (a shape made known as the “most wanted silhouette in Paris” by designer Christian Dior in the 1950s), classic heels, and fancy structured handbag are a classic, ladylike look. Steal the look with this structured ladylike satchel!

R: This look combines a tailored blazer, high-waisted skirt, and neck-tied blouse — with stripes, of course! French fashion staples, stripes, and neck-adorning blouses are a go-to look for those interested in channeling their inner Francophile!

french fashion

eiffel tower fashion

L: French ladies are known for layering in an effortlessly chic way. Channel this posh Parisian look with a knitted beret, scarf, blazer, shift dress, layered necklaces, tights, booties, and a foldover bag.

R: True Parisian elegance! Complete with the Eiffel Tower in the background, this frilly, pink beauty has a modern European style that I absolutely adore! When choosing formal wear with a French twist, remember that it’s all in the details! Look for lace, corset tops, ruffles, feathers, and hints of sparkle.

laduree macarons

Is there anything prettier than a macaron? Available in a rainbow of beautiful colors and delicious flavors, these sweet treats are readily available at specialty bakeries near you. Treat yourself to a few of these colorful cookies along with café au lait to feel the essence of a true French lifestyle!

Do you fancy France as much as we do?

Image sources: Hellagoodbye.blogspot.com, Prepfection.com, kalei.do, Pinterest, Hipparis.com, luxemylife.com

By Kacie in Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

January 3rd, 2013

Pucker Up: Your 2013 Beauty Resolutions

Welp … 2012 is officially over, and so are all of last year’s bad beauty habits. That’s right, this year we’re kicking your beauty routine into high gear — that means going a little lighter on the winged eyeliner/red lip combo, Taylor! With the help of some 2013 spring runway inspiration and a little thing we like to call our beauty conscience, here’s your list of 2013 resolutions:

1. Get Organized

Most of our resolutions involve getting organized — whether it’s finances, overstuffed closets, or beauty routines. Keeping your makeup organized makes getting ready a breeze, and gives you more time in the morning to catch some much-needed z’s. Take a tip from NARS and organize your makeup by type. Once you’ve grouped your lipsticks, eyeshadows, glosses, primers, brushes, etc. together, be sure to store them in a way that suits you. We’re obsessed with our over-the-door Cosmetic Bags here at HH (they have so many awesome compartments!), and we love this Pin-spiration, too.

2. Be More Daring

This year, vow to be a little more daring with your beauty routine. You can interpret this any way you want — just as long as you step out of your comfort zone a little bit! Baffled by how to use a lash curler? Head to Sephora and ask them to teach you! Always wanted to try the uber-popular bright lip trend? Go ahead, swipe some on! Dreaming of changing your hair color as often as Emma Stone? Make 2013 your year of ‘do switcheroos! After all, you never know until you try, and you might be pleasantly surprised.

3. Keep it Simple

2013 spring runways boasted an “enhanced minimalism” when it came to makeup. To everyone else, this just means: keep it simple! Instead of caking on that blush, tracing under your eyelids one time too many, or gluing on those fake lashes, try to refer back to the basics. Highlighting your features with just a hint of foundation, blush, highlighter, mascara, and gloss shows off your natural beauty! Just remember: a little goes a long way.

4. Grow Brows, Grow!

No more pencil-thin brows! We know how pesky those strays can be, but please no over-plucking this year, okay? Spring 2013 runways were jam-packed with big browed beauties, and It Girls like Cara Delevingne are proof that thick is beyond beautiful. Plus, bushier brows accentuate your gorgeous eyes and brighten your face. Ask your stylist how you two can work together to grow yours out this year.

5. Go Faux

It’s January, but you’re already thinking about going to the tanning bed for that gorgeous spring break glow. BUT WAIT JUST ONE MINUTE. First things first, swipe the words “tanning bed” from your beauty vocabulary completely. It’s horrible for you (bulbs boosts your risk of melanoma by 75 percent) and it prematurely ages you, too. In 2013, be good to your skin and your future self by turning to faux self tanners. Our favorites of the moment are anything by Jergens, and if you’re looking to splurge, try hitting up the department stores at your local mall. We love anything by Dior and Clinique.

6. Master the Updo

Lucky for your morning routine, updos are here to stay! For those of you who shy away from anything fancier than a ponytail, you’re seriously missing out! The Beauty Department has amazing tutorials for you to try, and they’re so easy that even Snooki could do them. A few of our favorites for 2013 include the milkmaid braids, the ’50s pony, and the twist-flip bun. Don’t forget to grab a fine-toothed comb for teasing, along with lots of bobbies for defying gravity!

7. Protect & Nourish

If there’s one beauty resolution you make this year, let it be to protect and nourish your skin. Your skin is your most important feature, so be sure to treat it right — starting with SPF. Always, always apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection with at least 30 SPF. That’s right — 30 SPF! Don’t skimp on the coverage or assume that your makeup has SPF. Also, make sure you know how to care for your skin properly using the right washes, moisturizers, and makeup. We are obsessed with this infographic featuring four steps to healthy, radiant skin.

Cheers to a beautiful you in the new year!

Image sources: harpersbazaar.com, vogue.co.uk, style.com, revista.vogue.globo.com, marieclaire.com, beautyeditor.ca, vogue.com.au

By Molly in Beauty, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 27th, 2012

Happy New Year! Our Favorite Posts of 2012

As we prep for an evening of party hopping, cocktail sipping, and memory making, we can’t help but look back on all the reasons we have to celebrate. 2012 has been an eventful year for Handbag Heaven as we moved into a chic new office space, launched a stylish and oh-so-helpful guide to Building a College Wardrobe, and worked like busy bees to ship your new handbags in time for the holidays!

So before we slip into our sparkly dresses and start teasing our hair like there’s no tomorrow, we’d like to take a few minutes to look back on our favorite posts from the past year!

14 Ways to Transform Your Handbag

What’s a girl to do when she’s dreaming of the latest runway trends, but living on a ramen-noodles-only kind of budget? Get a little crafty, of course! These 14 DIYs will transform your handbags from so-so to downright spunky.

Travel Abroad Survival Kit

Bitten by the travel bug, this must-have packing list prepped us for a little jet-setting. Now if only we had somewhere to go…

Bed to Beautiful: Your 10 Minute Morning Routine

Waking up at the crack of dawn is for the birds. We’re all about catching some z’s, which is why we’ve perfected the art of an efficient morning routine. Bring on the extra beauty sleep!

DIY: How to Make a Camera Case from a Handbag

Style snaps go out to our resident crafter, Stacie, for this crazy-stylish DIY. Now your camera case can look just as eye-catching as your prints.

Fitting Room Responses (How Do We Put This Nicely?)

Providing dressing room support is part of your best friend duties, but we believe so is telling the truth. Our resident wordsmiths show you how to break it to her gently that the top she’s ob-sessing over looks like a glorified garbage bag.

Will You Be Naughty or Nice This Holiday Season?

We know that too much time spent with the fam over the holidays can make you want to scream f— a-la-la-la. But when Aunt Betty questions your decision to have a second slice of pie, are you going to bite back or play it cool?

Thanks for spending 2012 with us! We can’t wait to see what 2013 has in store!

By Beth in Beauty, DIY Projects, Fashion, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 26th, 2012

Haute Holidays: Rachel of Life Unsweetened

Frosted windows, twinkling lights, piles of presents — ready or not, all signs signal that the holly-jolly holidays are almost here! To get in the seasonal spirit, we asked five of the hottest style bloggers around to dish on all things holiday — from their favorite childhood memories to those holiday tunes they just can’t stand. So cozy up with your laptop and a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy an extra-chic dose of holiday cheer.

Our latest Haute Holiday interview is with the straightforward and fashion-forward Rachel of Life Unsweetened.

Which “Kate” will you be channeling when you attend holiday parties this season — Moss, Middleton, Bosworth, or Perry?

Rachel: Kate Bosworth.

What holiday song brings you the most holiday spirit? Which song KILLS it?

Rachel: I love All I Want for Christmas is You — it’s such a happy song! I’m not a huge fan of songs like Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer, though.

What holiday food makes you bring out the stretchy pants?

Rachel: Green bean casserole. Yum!

What’s on your wishlist this holiday?

Rachel: I’m thinking of buying a Kindle — I’m so behind on reading, and I think this will force me to start reading more books during my commute (on the train).

We’re all ears: Have a great holiday entertainment tip?

Rachel: When it comes to food, have a variety. As someone who is allergic to peanuts and can’t eat cheese, I find that there are slim pickings at many gatherings. Keep in mind some people want to eat healthy, some are lactose-intolerant, and some may be vegetarian!

Which Handbag Heaven bag are you dreaming of this holiday season?

Rachel: The Bennett.

See how Rachel styled the Bennett throughout this entire post!

What holiday beverage makes you the merriest?

Rachel: Hot chocolate is my favorite for cold weather. It reminds me of my childhood.

Which gift from years past rivals the excitement of the Red Rider BB Gun from A Christmas Story?

Rachel: When I was around 10, I received a makeup vanity filled with nail polishes. I still have it to this day (at my parent’s house).

What holiday movie is on repeat throughout the season?

Rachel: A Christmas Story. It seriously never gets old.

What’s your favorite holiday memory?

Rachel: I miss spending the holidays with my grandparents. They’ve since passed away, so I cherish the memories of all the cousins gathering at their house and eating my grandma’s delicious food.

By Beth in Fashion, Fashion Blogger, Featured Handbags, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 20th, 2012

Party Etiquette: How to be a Graceful and Gracious Party Guest

party etiquette

‘Tis the season for party hopping, elbow rubbing, glasses clinking, and cheek kissing. Unfortunately, gracefully navigating party after party can be downright exhausting!

If your social calendar this holiday season is booked with soirees and get-togethers, then these holiday party etiquette tips are just for you.

The Invitation — RSVP to each and every invitation you get — and do it promptly, for goodness’ sake! This will help your host prepare his or her spread of food and drinks. Waiting too late to respond may also make the host think that you’re waiting for a better invitation to come.
The Hostess Gift — It’s nice, especially during the holidays, to bring your hostess a gift. Wine and flowers are thoughtful and usually appreciated. I recommend bringing flowers in a vase so the hostess doesn’t need to dig one up during her party. Check out Molly’s post on hostess gift ideas for more inspiration!
Your Arrival — It’s proper etiquette to arrive at the time stated on the invitation. However, we know the importance of being fashionably late, so plan to knock on the hostess’ door within 15 to 30 minutes of the start time. Never arrive early to a party.
Your Entourage — Don’t bring guests to a party who are not invited or unexpected. If you have a plus one, be sure to introduce him or her to everyone you speak with at the party.
Be Thankful — Upon arrival, it’s good etiquette to seek out the host early and thank him or her for the lovely party. (This is when to give that gift!)
Noshing — The most important rule when it comes to eating at a party is to not overindulge. It’s good etiquette to only take one hors d’oeuvres at a time. Be sure to use the utensils provided when it comes to dip; don’t dip your food right into the bowl. And do not double dip! Be courteous and throw away disposable napkins and toothpicks.
Drinking — The not-overindulging rule also applies to alcoholic beverages. Let’s keep it classy, ladies!
Chatting it Up — Try to not be a wallflower, but also don’t dominate conversation the entire night. Avoid gossiping and topics like politics, business, and other potentially offensive, unpleasant, or debate-causing conversations. If you have a hard time saying the right thing during cringe-worthy moments, be sure to check out our naughty or nice conversation guide. ;)
Participation — If the host has games planned, enthusiastically participate (even if you’re secretly rolling your eyes inside). This means bringing a gift for an exchange or white elephant and not ducking out the backdoor when the host wants to play pin the tail on the reindeer.
Your Departure — Don’t leave too soon after you arrive to a party, but also don’t linger after everyone has gone home. Thank the host again before you leave. You may also consider sending him or her a thank you note within a day or two after the party. If it is a small party, try to say goodbye to everyone in attendance. However, if the party is large, it’s best to make a quiet exit.

Do you have any more holiday party etiquette tips? Please share in the comments below!

By Sarah B. in Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 19th, 2012

Haute Holidays: Kathleen of Inspirafashion

Our latest Haute Holiday interview is with the simply chic Kathleen of Inspirafashion.

Which “Kate” will you be channeling when you attend holiday parties this season — Moss, Middleton, Bosworth, or Perry?

Kathleen: Kate Bosworth. She exudes an effortless edge with a mix of feminine and classy style.

What holiday song brings you the most holiday spirit?

Kathleen: Ever since I found out about She & Him, I have loved their holiday version of Christmas Waltz. Such a cute and fun song. Oh, and Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt when they sing their New Year’s song.

What holiday food makes you bring out the stretchy pants?

Kathleen: Anything that involves pumpkin … pumpkin pie, pumpkin donuts, pumpkin ice cream. As you can tell, I love pumpkin. :)

What’s on your wishlist this holiday?

Kathleen: So tough because I have a long shopping lust-list. I’m hoping to get either an iPad or Tory Burch riding boots.

We’re all ears: Have a great holiday entertainment tip?

Kathleen: Serve drinks in jar cups — they’re adorable, yet fun. For added charm, dip the top of the cup in water and then crushed candy canes.

Which Handbag Heaven bag are you dreaming of this holiday season?

Kathleen: The Elise.

See how Rachel styled the Elise throughout this entire post!

What holiday beverage makes you the merriest?

Kathleen: Pumpkin Spice Latte <3

Which gift from years past rivals the excitement of the Red Rider BB Gun from A Christmas Story?

Kathleen: One year when I was little, I got so lucky. My parents surprised me with a hot pink Barbie convertible that I could drive around all by myself. I wasn’t even 5 and I already had my own car!

What holiday movie is on repeat throughout the season?

Kathleen: Love Actually has been my recent favorite. Everything about that movie makes me so happy.

What’s your favorite holiday memory?

Kathleen: It probably consists of whenever my entire family is together at my grandparents’ house that we all grew up in. Having everyone together for the holidays is probably the reason why I love Christmas and the holiday season so much. So no single holiday memory is my favorite, just any with my Murillo family. :)

By Beth in Fashion, Fashion Blogger, Featured Handbags, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 12th, 2012

How to Build A Mature Wardrobe in College

college fashion, interviews, gossip, and campus living

Attention current (or soon-to-be) college gals! When it comes to your crazy-busy academic schedule and even crazier social calendar, you need a fully-stocked wardrobe. But who has time to stand around and survey the contents of her collegiate closet when there’s tests to be taken and soirees to attend?

Lucky for you, our campus correspondent Amanda has your back. She created this fashion timeline exclusively for HHU, featuring the college wardrobe essentials from freshman to senior year — and everything in-between.

So if you’re getting ready to enter the campus scene, take notes on our early-college staples — they’ll get you through waterlogged walks to class and nights on the dance floor! If you’re already a super-savvy college gal, go ahead and take a peek at our must-haves for entering the real world in style.

The key to building a mature wardrobe in college that’ll last post-graduation? Start now!

View the HHU fashion timeline >

By Molly in Fashion, Handbag Heaven University, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

December 12th, 2012

Haute Holidays: Toshiko of It’s Not Her, It’s Me.

Our latest Haute Holiday interview is with the eclectic Toshiko of It’s Not Her, It’s Me.

Which “Kate” will you be channeling when you attend holiday parties this season — Moss, Middleton, Bosworth, or Perry?

Toshiko: Out of all the Kates, my style is the closest to Kate Bosworth’s, but I wouldn’t mind throwing some Kate Moss into the mix with some edgy leather and faux fur this holiday season!

What holiday song brings you the most holiday spirit? Which song KILLS it?

Toshiko: Oh, that’s a tough one! I love all the classics — original classics. I can’t really stand modern-day remixes, especially when it’s really badly sung by some new unknown artist (too many out there). Yikes!

What holiday food makes you bring out the stretchy pants?

Toshiko: Sweet potatoes and all the pies!

What’s on your wishlist this holiday?

Toshiko: As of right now, I am most excited for the Isabel Marant x H&M collab. I seriously want everything!

We’re all ears: Have a great holiday entertainment tip?

Toshiko: Cooking together with your significant other, friends, or family is always fun!

Which Handbag Heaven bag are you dreaming of this holiday season?

Toshiko: The Reese.

See how Toshiko styled the Reese throughout this entire post!

What holiday beverage makes you the merriest?

Toshiko: My stepdad makes bomb eggnog!

Which gift from years past rivals the excitement of the Red Ryder BB Gun from A Christmas Story?

Toshiko: This doesn’t sound very exciting and perhaps a little nerdy, but my fiancé got me the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) one Christmas, and it’s the best gift ever because I literally use it every day! Not sure what I would do without it — or him. ;)

What holiday movie is on repeat throughout the season?

Toshiko: The Holiday! Gotta love that one!

What’s your favorite holiday memory?

Toshiko: I grew up in Hong Kong and Christmas there is extraordinary! This city is full of lights and high-rises — imagine all of that with holiday decor and lights! It’s quite spectacular. It’s something you have to experience in person!

By Beth in Fashion, Fashion Blogger, Featured Handbags, Lifestyle | Permalink | No Comments »

Sophisticated Sweetheart

Pretty in Pink Accents

Heartbreaking Hottie

Golden Girl

Classic Valentine

1. Get Organized

2. Be More Daring

3. Keep it Simple

4. Grow Brows, Grow!

5. Go Faux

6. Master the Updo

7. Protect & Nourish