Bag-A-Licious

Jonathan Kelsey knows a thing or two about designing—working with Jimmy Choo, Mulberry and Emilio Pucci has helped paved the way of a successful shoe designer. But now Kelsey has a new project, and this time it doesn’t include fashion for the sole.

Kelsey and Belvedere Black Raspberry, will unveil a striking new limited-edition overnight bag: The Belvie. The leather, oversized bag even features a secret compartment for a bottle of Belvedere Black Raspberry—perfect for the girl on the move.

“It’s the perfect slouchy summer bag into which you throw everything you need, daytime or night time,” says Kelsey.

The best part, though? It was created in collaboration with Grammy Award-winning recording artist, Estelle. As the embodiment of playful style and attitude, Estelle will co-host a global launch of The Belvie with Jonathan Kelsey.

Need plans for the weekend? Head over to the pop-up store where you can pick up a complimentary Jonathan Kelsey tote featuring the new Belvedere Black Raspberry ad campaign and learn about the process of maceration.

The bag retails for $1,400 and will be available at Jeffrey NY. Visit http://www.macerationisnatural.com for additional information—including updates on retail locations.

What: Belvedere Black Raspberry Event
Where: 117 Mercer Street (Between Spring & Prince)
When: Saturday, May 2nd 1-7pm

Marc Marmel: The Epitome of Sublime Understatement

Just when you've decided to cut back on luggage and travel accessory splurges, along comes Marc Marmel's line of classic handmade leather luggage with vintage inspired shapes and accessories to match. Comprised of large traveling pieces, small carry-ons, handbags, brief cases, wallets, passport holders, belts and custom pieces, Marc Marmel has something for everyone - for all situations.

If aesthetically pleasing and forward thinking excites you, you'll love my favorite piece, the T-Bag. This bag is an extra large shoe carrier with 18 pockets large enough for men's shoes as well as 4" heels. Made of cracked leather, you'll look well traveled and seasoned to perfection with its brightly colored lime green silk lining.

So whether in need of a long-weekend bag, or a hobo shoulder bag that isn't bound by trend or any particular season, you'll find it all at Marc Marmel. And, if you're feeling daring enough, stay tuned for Marc Marmel's black peacock silk brocade lining for fall 2009, with teal 'peacock eyes' trimmed in metallic taupe on a black background. Absolute luxury.

For more information click here!

Shopping the Night Away

Happy Hump Day!

My, my, my! I just got back from the ultra-amazing Shop NYC event that showcased accessories and clothing of emerging fashion designers, and boy was it SO much fun. Sponsored by GEN ART—an arts & entertainment organization dedicated to supporting emerging talent in film, fashion and music—Shop NYC was packed to the hilt as it promoted the best of the best.

Within 10 minutes of entering the building I knew I was in trouble. The designers were so nice and best of all everything was discounted! As I stopped at one of the first tables, I met shoe designer Tiffany Chantra whose shoes made bold statements of wit and attitude. When I saw her smiling face and gorgeous $40 brown/teal pump, I nearly threw my wallet at her! They were to dye for. Needless to say after swooning over them for 20 minutes, they rode the subway home with me.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, Shop NYC made sure there wasn’t a dry mouth in the house as they provided beverages courtesy of Baileys, Budweiser Select, Johnnie Walker and Imperia Vodka. (yum!)Too bad as the evening wore on I became a bit tired, because if momma had a bit more energy, I would’ve relished in the complimentary hair styling by Ecru New York and brow grooming by Tweezerman.

Who could forget the beautiful DJ Kiss spinning on the 1’s and 2’s the entire evening? I was so memorized by her quick-spinning hand I just had to take a picture for my lovely fashion rationers. If anyone needs a banging DJ for a party or celebration DJ Kiss is definitely your woman.

I know everyone couldn’t attend, but the good news is everyone can sign up to be a GEN ART member (or just join the mailing list at www.genart.org ) and receive updates on ALL their shindigs. It’s all about supporting up-and-coming designers, right? And as Elle magazine said “When a brand new star is born, chances are GEN ART has something to do with it.”

Love you madly,
Deena