/ Uncategorized

I have been looking for a good Summer Straw Handbag. I originally had thoughts of taking it on my trip with me but as chic as it might be it’s not practical, according to Husband. But we’ll see about that. 

I currently have the Village Green Bag from Anthropologie that I purchased last year on sale. I have yet to use it but can’t wait to do so. I thought about adding a drawstring bag inside it to thwart off thieves on our trip. It’s big enough to hold what I need for the flight and for my sight-seeing during the day. It has a flap with a turn-lock closure as well. I’ll have to see if I can convince Husband of it.
Next is one I’ve been using the past week. It’s the Medium Straw Beach Bag from J Crew, circa 2007. It’s a little on the heavy side for me and isn’t very comfortable when I try to carry it on my shoulder. It’s also open with only two suede strings to tie at the top. It is lined in a blue and white striped cotton twill. It’s still a very cute bag and will be used quite well this summer.
I was immediately in love with the Brompton Straw Mini-Hobo from J Crew when it showed up a few weeks ago. Then after seeing DaniBP’s review of it I was sold on it. I love my Suede Brompton, which is full size.. 
Lastly, is the Kate Spade Cobble Hill Straw Leslie Bag. I chose black over white because I thought it would be more functional and then I saw on the Kate Spade site that it also came in Aqua. 
Since I already have the first two bags, and they really are no comparison to the Brompton or the Leslie, I will need to choose between the latter two. 
1) Closure – I prefer a bag that has good closures but is still easy enough to get in to. I don’t want to fumble around with zippers and buckles and snaps to get to my wallet, lipstick or hand cream. The Brompton has a turn lock closure for the main compartment. It also has a top zip for the side pocket that is the full length and width of the bag. The Straw Leslie has the zipper you see in the photo that opens to the interior of the bag. The flap stays closed with a hidden magnetic closure. So if you want to access what’s inside you’ll have to keep it unzip (which is what I would do) or unzip it every time you need something. Winner: Brompton
 
2) Material – The Brompton is a nylon straw while The Straw Leslie is a natural straw. I don’t know how  it would hold up after a few months of use. I know it’s Kate Spade and a great quality bag but you are dealing with a natural material that, if it gets snagged or cut, could start unravelling. The straw on the KS looks to be more tightly woven than the JC bag. Winner: Leslie
 
Brompton on the left; Straw Leslie on the right
3) Carrying Options – The Brompton has a handle with a  6 1/2″ drop along with an additonal strap to change the bag to a cross-over body bag. The Straw Leslie has a handle with a 4″ drop as well as the cross-body strap. The Brompton can be carried on the shoulder while The Straw Leslie does not have that option due to the short drop. Winner: Brompton

4) Size – Both are almost the same size. Some would consider these small bags but, at least for me and my size/height, I consider it a Medium bag. I think both are a perfect size bag for me and don’t overpower my frame. Winner: The Straw Leslie
5) Other – The Brompton is a little lighter in color than The Straw Leslie but that doesn’t bother me. I like the contrasting color of the leather on The Brompton but I also like the black of The Straw Leslie.  The Straw Leslie has feet! I love that little feature on bags as it helps to protect the bag when you set it down. The Brompton just has the contrasting leather at the bottom with no other protection. I think The Brompton is roomier but probably because it less structured as The Straw Leslie. Winner: Tie
 
 

So, as you can see, I like a lot of the features of both bags. The gold-plated feet at the bottom sell me on The Straw Leslie while the ability to carry The Brompton on my shoulder is a selling point for that bag. I can’t decide.
Which would you choose? 

/ Reviews

**Yay! I was able to recover my photos from my back-up drive and my son’s MacBook.

Lots of reviews but not very many “gotta have right now” items. The Spring Collection has had some cute things but nothing really really special like the Casbah print from last year.

I was trying some of the new Picasa features which took a lot longer than I expected. Some cool features like borders, adding corners, and different types of processing. Anyway, let’s get to the reviews.

Blythe Blouse in Silk, Royal Violet, Sz 8 – I really like the Blythe Blouse and the Sz 8 fits perfect in the shoulders and arms but too big in the chest and body. The Sz 6 is just the opposite so I have to pass on this great shirt because of it.
Long No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Sovereign Paisley, Sz 6 – Oh how I wish this skirt came in at least the regular length. The petite length is 23 inches so I may have to try it. I really am liking this print, especially in the skirt. (And now it’s on sale for $99!)

Tippi Sweater in Orchard Print, Sz M – Whoops…seemed like this is sold out online but I took my normal sweater size. It’s a cute print and my PS paired it with the Postage Stamp Mini in Big Apple Print, Sz 8. If you’ll notice the length is not so mini on me because J Crew states they “tweaked the mini so you’ll never feel over-exposed.” Hmmm…I think me likey. I did purchase it but am deciding if I really want to keep it. I am wearing the Seville Wedge Espadrilles in a Size 7 and they are half a size too big. The Size 6 (no half sizes) was way too tight. I was really disappointed because I really wanted the Seville in Stripe.

Stripe Sequin Tank, Sz Small – I bought this right after it originally rolled out in lat February/early March but returned it. I’m waiting for a sale and hope it makes it. I really do like it. I can wear the Small but may size to a Medium, depending on what makes sale.

Stripe Twisted Stitch Henley, Sz Small – My store manager predicted this would go on sale pretty quick as it’s very box, although comfortable. She was right. Not even two weeks after I tried this on it went to sale. Size down one if you are interested. My PS paired it with the No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Royal Violet, Sz 8 (although I take a 6 in pencil skirts). This is a very pretty purple but not needed in my closet right now. This color is on sale, online, for $59.99.

Here, the henley sweater is paired with the 5 inch Chino Shorts in Lemon Zest. I would size to an 8 for a more comfortable fit.

Now, I was really intrigued by the Tessallate Necklace when it appeared online a few weeks ago. I was happy to see my PS had it in my dressing room but up close I was disappointed. I was hoping it was gold painted enamel not resin (plastic). This was a pass after seeing it IRL. I can certainly find something similar for a lot less than EIGHTY-FIVE DOLLARS!!!

This is some sort of tweed-ish pencil skirt that was in-store but I can’t find online. Style #76956, $118

Colorblock Stripe Slash Henley, Sz Small – This shirt was flying out the door and I tried on one of the last two left. The Small fit well but the v-neck was cut really low. The Electric Orange of the 5 inch Chino Shorts are a nice vibrant color.

This is the Cafe’ Trouser in Linen in at least one size way too big for me. There was no size 6 or 8 to try on in the Festival Green or Navy that was in-store. I like this color and have it in the Perfect Linen Shirt. I think a Petite 8 might be my size for this pant but I don’t need it as I have an Navy linen pant from a few years ago.

The Maritime Colorblock Dress is not online (did I miss it and it’s sold out?). I have on a Sz Small which was a good fit. The cotton is pretty thick/substantial. I’ve missed my opportunity to wear it here as the weather is holding in the 80s daily now. I have it paired with the Mini Prints Scarf in Orchard. I can do the apple print in this piece and took it home with me. The first shipment my store received sold out in a day. I was happy my PS put this one away for me when they received their next shipment.

I had never tried the Amie Maxi Dress, Sz S, Bright Flame, before. I know the JCAs have been loving it and I know why. It’s amazing and comfortable and the drawstring helps define your waist. The Navy is online as are the solid colors.

The Cafe’ Capri in Foulard, Sz 8, fit me really odd as do all of the cotton Cafe’ Capris. I think I need a Petite 8 for a better fit. It’s reminiscent of the Mahali Dot Print from a few years ago.

Gondola Stripe Top, Sz 8 & 6 – This is a very comfortable silk shirt. The silk is soft and IMO it runs a little big. As you can see, the size 6 is loose through the body on me but that would be the size I would get.

IMO, the Seaport Maxi Dress does nothing for me. I mean, it’s comfortable but pretty long on me. It feels like a long nightgown to me. I’m not sure if sizing to a Small would change my mind.

This is a gorgeous in-store only floral lightweight wool scarf. It came home with me. Style #88503, $59.50

A yellow paisley scarf that was also in-store only. Style #88503, $59.50

I don’t know how to feel about the print on the Big Apple Tunic Dress. I mean I like the print but I think, for me, it needs to be on a smaller scale, like the mini skirt. I know the website says it has a back zip but I don’t remember one. See, for being such a big print, it’s not memorable, like the Jaipur from a few years ago.

I sometimes wish I worked in an office setting and not from home, only if to buy and wear beautiful work-wear dresses like this. The size 6 of Director Dress was a perfect fit for me. And of course, the Bright Dahlia is one of my favorite J Crew colors. Alas, I have the Andre’ Dress in this color I’ve never worn. Maybe I’ll get it on sale with a discount? Here’s to wishful thinking.

So, I know these are a few weeks old but I wanted to post them anyway since I know some of you are my size and/or shape. I’m sure there are now April arrivals in my store. I may end up not even seeing them as I have been swamped.

I did manage to set up my iPad as a mini netbook, with a keyboard and everything, since my laptop is being ridiculous. Oh, and if any of you Blogger iPad users are looking for a Blogging App try Blog Docs. It’s $1.99 but it really is cool. You can write up your posts, add pics, change your formats, add a signature, etc. I did my last post completely in it and have two more drafts written that I hope to post this week.

Have a Great Day!

/ Uncategorized

Well, I had a long post of new J Crew Arrivals that included some of the new Apple print items and a lovely floral scarf but my computer has all but died. I guess it was a little jealous that I was spending too much time with my iPad it decided to quit on me. So, off to the computer “geek” it goes. As technically savvy as Husband is, he cannot fix computer hardware. It started giving me trouble early last week so I at least had the mind-set to back up all my files and photos. Whew! I also found what I hope is a good app for blogging and this will be the first post with that app.

Last weekend the Loft had 30% off everything in the store. They have continued that through this weekend. There was a black and white jersey striped skirt (I am stripe-sick Gigi!) that I saw the week before but when I went Saturday it was already gone. I did find this striped skirt, the Memorable Striped Skirt. You may recall the blue and white striped one I purchased in late Feb/early March. I couldn’t help myself as they had it paired with a neon pink top. I decided to use my J Crew Linen Cable-Knit Sweater in Caribbean Green and I think it looked just as lovely. 

I’m wearing a Small in the sweater and a Size 4 in the skirt. The sweater is so lightweight and perfect for the Spring. I won’t hold my breath for wearing it during the summer but it could transition to Fall pretty well as a layering piece. The skirt is a linen-cotton blend and though it’s prone to wrinkling it isn’t too bad. I also have a pretty Turquoise blue linen blend sweater from a few years ago that will go nicely with this skirt. 
I also found a navy and white striped (of course) jersey dress with ruching at the hip. Unfortunately the pic is on my laptop and back up drive that won’t link up to my iPad so no pic of it.  You’ll just have to wait for another Que Bella. I’ll wear it sooner rather than later. 
I did try on this dress – the Treasure Stripe Knit Dress. It’s a navy and cream knit jersey dress. The Medium fit well so I would say it does run TTS. It’s a little more pencil skirt-ish from the waist down so you may need Spanx or Assets or something similar.

Some of my other picks are below. I haven’t shopped at Loft in a very long time and this Spring they have really had some of the best things and great sales.

Eyelet Hem Skirt in Imperial Rose or Hot Orange
Anything above catch your eye? Have you been to the Loft lately?

/ Uncategorized

…we’ll be right back!

I have been swamped with work and my “second” job with our HOA. I hope to be all caught up by this weekend to return to my normal blogging. I have Gap, The Loft and of course, J Crew reviews coming up, along with a packing update too.

I have also been playing around with my new iPad I received from Husband as an early early birthday gift. Of course it doesn’t play nice with blogger so I’m trying to find a decent app for that. Any suggestions?

Be back soon!

AudreyBella

/ TravelBella

As I mentioned in my previous post, we are heading to Europe this summer. We finally decided on our country destinations and now are whittling down the cities. We’ll fly in to Madrid and spend a few days there before heading to Italy. We currently have stops in Rome, Naples, Matera, Puglia and Sicily/Palermo in our two week plans. Because some of our stops to the smaller cities/areas will be a night or two Husband has declared we will only survive on one carry-on each. I laughed as I had grand plans of wearing skirts and dresses while strolling through these cities. Instead, I’ve had to whittle down my thoughts and wardrobe to be the following.

  • Practical
  • Easily washable by hand
  • No ironing needed
  • Easy to mix and match
  • 3-4 days worth of clothes total

It truly is difficult to pack this way but I do tend to over-pack and bring more than enough close and shoes wherever I go. So, here’s what I have so far.

Italy Packing

Five tops: The four tops I have are all jersey and either have flutter or cap-sleeves that cover my shoulders. They are all random brands I found at Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, or Marshalls. They are easily washable, don’t require ironing and can be mixed with my bottoms. The Striped Tippi Sweater I just added because it’s linen but I think I won’t bring it because the weather might be too warm and I don’t want to lose it or leave it behind.

Italy Tops

Five Bottoms: Old Navy Jersey Skirt, Anthropologie Go Anywhere Skirt, J Crew Maxi Skirt, J Crew Shorts
I prefer to wear a skirt or comfortable dress on a plane and the maxi skirt will be perfect, especially if/when I get cold. The other two skirts and shorts will hide dirt and spots well and can be washed and dried quickly.

Italy Bottoms

 Italy Bottoms by audreybella featuring a jersey skirt

One Dress: I have to choose between these two dresses. I had originally planned on taking the Blouson Dress to wear when we go to dinner (one nice dinner in Madrid, Rome and Palermo) but I was able to find the Castle Lake Dress in my size recently. (I sold my size Small because it didn’t fit up top any longer.) Now, I’m leaning towards that one because it’s a little more casual, floats away from the body and has pockets.
Swimsuit: We’ll be at the beach once or twice and I love this Tulle Polk-Dot swimsuit from J Crew. I just need to find a cover-up.
Scarf: I’ll carry this in my bag in case I need it to cover up at any point during our sight-seeing. This one is from Talbots and is linen.
Shoes…I don’t have any really good sturdy walking shoes other than tennis shoes. I will start looking for some that are sturdy, comfortable and just a little bit stylish. Here are my current options.

  • Tom’s Ballet Flats: I don’t have these yet but plan on getting them and breaking them in before we go. I was going to take my Black Glitter slip-ons but the ballet flats might be better and a little more comfortable.
  • J Crew Madras Converse Sneakers: I will take these to wear with my shorts I’ll be taking.
  • Tory Burch Thora Flip-Flop: These will mainly be used when we are travelling to our next location (plane, train, automobile).
Italy Dresses & Accessories

I want to take a bag and thought about this one but Husband said he’d rather I not carry anything if possible.

So, that’s my outfit planning…3 months early. I thought about taking a cardigan instead of the scarf but the weather should be warm.

What do you think of my choices? Anything I shouldn’t take? Anything I’m missing. Any other tips or suggestions about the cities?