Faux or Fur

Image by LunaDiRimmel via Flickr

There have been a lot of discussions, both personal and professional, stirring on whether it is okay to purchase these luxurious garments made from animal's fur or hides.  I, personally, am torn.  There are so many amazing pieces out there, especially when it comes to boots, jackets and handbags.  With real leather having such an amazing look, feel and lasting quality, it is hard to go back to faux.
Then there are the furs! Although never appealing to me in the past, in recent trends amazing vests and even boot linings have been exposed.  However, my ethics have yet to allow me to purchase anything.
For those of you who don't know, or who believe the materials used to make these items are coming from dead or 'used' animals, they are not.  Like fabric, most design houses sources animals for these materials.  Without getting too graphic, it is a sad tale.
What do you think? How do you feel? Do you research companies prior to purchasing garments with these fabrics? Would love to hear your thoughts...

Totes Can Be a Girl's Best Friend

Image by See-ming Lee 李思明 SML via Flickr

We all know, as women, that a handbag can complete you.  These days there are enough styles and versions of handbags to match the periphery of personalities that women possess.

My go-to bag, and thank the style world that it is still 'in', is a tote.  I recently stumbled upon the best one out there. It matches everything in my wardrobe, has style to 'boot' and is designed by one of my all-time, American designers, Michael Kors!! 

If you want it NOW, order it here. I know, we just can't help ourselves, right?
http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod9270018&parentId=cat8519&masterId=cat8501&index=8&cmCat=cat000000cat8501cat8519

The best thing about a bag like this, is you could put your entire bathroom and closet inside. 

If you aren't currently in the "Michael Kors" salary department, Elle is selling it at a discounted price of $298.  Of course, bags like this can be found at places like H&M. You might be surprised at what you find at thrift stores, as well.  Although it won't be a Michael Kors, it can still be a show stopper in your day to day style.

Have fun shopping and look forward to tomorrow's style advice.

XOXO,

J