Well, I did it. I finally went to check out the Carlos Falchi for Target handbag collection yesterday afternoon and I came home with the Flap Hobo in Gray Collage ($39.99). This bag was one of my favorites from the lookbook, and it stole my heart when I saw in person. I was kinda smitten by the entire collection. I don't know why, I've never been particularly fond of faux reptile skins (and I'd never carry the real deal…even though I wear leather…topic for another post), but the Falchi bags just did it for me. Snakeskin patchwork should read ostentatious, and yet the collection's dark colors, modern shapes and simple hardware combined to create a tasteful, vintage-rock aesthetic with subdued glamour. I love love love my bag, hope it holds up although I plan on using it lightly to start (going out to dinner and stuff).

Who else is loving this line? Which bag(s) did you buy?

I loved this green satchel, too, but couldn't justify buying two bags in one trip. Sniff, sniff

My new bag (in the store)

The boyfriend blazer gets bedazzled with sequins just in time for the holidays, as seen on this sequin jacket by Diane Von Furstenberg. $795 at shopbop.com


If you've been lusting after this look but seek it for less, consider this sequined PYT blazer, $84 at fredflare.com.


You'll find yet another sequin blazer for $88 at ardenb.com. Stalk your nearest Arden B. store and you might find this alternative on sale, never know!


Finally, Urban Outfitters offers this amazing sequin blazer for $98. Wear this blazer to all your holiday fetes and you are bound to draw attention. The good kind.

Cardigans make the perfect winter cover-up and they needn't be boring. This season there are so many styles to choose from, including this Wide Rugby Cozy Cotton Cardigan by Splendid, $87 at Shopbop.com.


Need another option? ShopBarbara.com also carries a striped jersey cardigan with a similar vibe for $49.

If you're planning a trip to Aspen this winter, be sure to pack your Moncler "Mel" Hooded Parka Puffer, $1,275 at Bloomingdales.com.


Staying closer to home, or trying to stick to a realistic budget? Check out the outerwear at American Eagle and get a similar look for less with the AE Puffer Coat (shown here). It's available in orange, white, navy or silver birch for $119.50. AE also has some sporty puffer vests in cool colors like silver or lime yellow as well as a long quilted parka to keep you extra cozy. Thanks to reader Stacy P. for the tip!

Moncler's luxe ski jackets are worn by the rich and famous on ski slopes and city streets alike. Celebrity fans include Christina Aguilera, Rihanna and Mariah Carey. And you'd need their incomes to afford one of these: The Moncler Alpes Jacket shown above costs $1,245 at Ssense.


If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative, Forever 21's Bubble Sheen Jacket is a great buy at $32.80. Confession: I bought one yesterday and I love it. Wool peacoats are great but sometimes you just need something with a little more attitude, and this jacket is it.