French Connection just came out with an art-deco influenced necklace, available for $68 at fcuk.com.


Typically I offer an alternative look that costs less, but in this case, I'm going to recommend a necklace that costs a tad more: It's this House of Harlow by Nicole Richie resin necklace, and it is stunning! If you love it, snag yours for $120 at Chickdowntown.com.

The Mulberry Bayswater bag manages to be a timeless classic and top celebrity "It" bag at the same time with its unique combination of modern lines and vintage appeal. Make this $895 investment over at Mulberry.com (it comes in a dozen different colors and finishes, I just used this brown one as an example).


Or, just scoop up Forever 21's Reptile Leather Doctor's Tote for $32.80 and make believe you're carrying the real deal. Works for me!

Reader Nonie is planning on wearing this black lace ruffle-tier dress with black peep-toe pumps to see a performance of Wicked this weekend, but she's not sure if it's appropriate for the occasion. "Do you have any suggestions or opinions in what way I should wear or should I wear this at all?" she asks.

My response? I think Nonie's look is fun, festive and totally appropriate! I might swap the brown/bronze beads for a longer, multi-strand necklace either with delicate chains or flirty pearls to play-up the feminine feel of the dress.




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The Devil may wear Prada, but I'm sure she has space in her closet for these sinfully seductive Jimmy Choo cutout shoe booties, made from nappa leather and snakeskin. Originally $950.00 you can pick them up for $428.00 on sale at Bergdorf Goodman.


Charlotte Russe has this look for less. I first spotted these Ruched Strappy Stilettos at their fall launch event, and now they're available for $26.99 at CharlotteRusse.com. Irresistible!

Since its launch in 1982, Vera Bradley Designs' signature cotton quilted handbags, luggage and accessories have become recognized worldwide. The fabrics are a tad too "country cottage" for me, so they don't work with my personal style, but here's why I still give them a big ol' thumb's up:

• The Vera Bradley success story is the epitome of the American Dream. Two longtime friends start small and make it big through hard work, passion and a loyal fanbase.
  


• It's a women-owned business. Gotta love that.
  


• The headquarters are in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Midwest represent!
  


• The styles appeal to all generations. Last time I was at the airport, I saw a daughter/mother/grandmother trio toting Vera Bradley carry-ons—too cute for words.
  


• They're affordable. Vera Bradley has something for every budget, from inexpensive wristlets to under-$100 tote bags, and discontinued styles always go on mad sale.
  


• Those delightful prints. How can anyone hate on those adorable little paisleys and florals? It would be like hating Care Bears. No one hates Care Bears.

OK, I've made my case. What do you think about Vera Bradley? Yea or nay?