1. I have a seemingly inexhaustible ability to keep shopping for crossbody bags, and had to share another which I’ve been eyeing (super duper eyeing) – this Saint Laurent convertible pouch/crossbody bag. I think this bag is perfect!!
I’m always looking for a little pouch/bag which I can stick into a larger tote, for when I need to run after baby but don’t want to lug all my stuff. The closest thing I have is the Chanel wallet on chain, which is fabulous, but the strap is too long and I wish it could just fit a smidgen more.
This Saint Laurent bag basically has it all…the size, the sleek shape (easily tucked into a tote), the tassel detail, and the adjustable strap. This bag is basically like if the Gucci Soho Disco and the Celine Trio had a baby, no? A little pouch sized baby.
I also love that it can easily be converted into a clutch – and one that I’d actually wear out. I really, really, might have to get this one.
2. I had to giggle a little bit (maybe I shouldn’t be) at this article, When Startups Fail, Millennial CEOs Like to Share Feelings, via the WSJ. What do you think? At least their hearts are in the right place.
3. Did you know that The Economist has a new publication (Intelligent Life rebranded) – called 1843, and it’s a lifestyle magazine? In their inaugural issue, there’s an interesting article about why Hermes “doesn’t” want to let you buy a Birkin.
4. A fascinating article, (from the always excellent Vanessa Friedman), via The NY Times – What Happened at Oscar de la Renta? Peter Copping, the lead designer, has just left the brand – making him the eighth designer to leave a major house during their first contract in the past year, a staggering number.
5. I was asked for recommendations on the topic of East Germany/The Berlin Wall, so this week I thought I would share a selection I read a few years ago – Stasiland, by Anna Funder.
Stasiland is a collection of stories from those who lived in Communist East Germany during the years that the Stasi (secret police) were operating in force. I’ve always been fascinated about this period, and am always interested in stories that convey what life was like in the era, such as the excellent movie The Lives of Others.
Stasiland is fascinating – the stories and people you meet form a collective glimpse of what life was like living in the surveillance state that was East Germany. Recommended for anyone with an interest in the time period, or non fiction fans in general. I’d compare it to an East German version of Nothing to Envy (though I still have to give preference to the latter).
17 Comments
Michelle
July 22, 2016 at 11:51 amThe YSL pouch/bag looks cute but quite similar in style to the Celine trio. I swear by my Celine trio, it fits so much more than a WOC, you can slip it into a bigger bag and it is quite compact. You will be surprised by what you can fit into the small trio. I am probably going to get another one but am waiting for the right colorway.
Katherine
July 22, 2016 at 1:35 pmI know you love yours! I have been debating the Trio forever and wonder if I should just jump the gun on this YSL or the Trio. Do you think the Trio fits easily into a Goyard St Louis type bag?
Michelle
July 22, 2016 at 6:41 pmYes the trio will fit into your St Louis without any problems. It packs pretty flat. I put mine in the dust bag and stuff it into my carry on bag. Really convenient. I like the three sections of the trio as you can easily compartmentalize your belongings. Example, outer segment for my cell phone and sunglasses, the middle one for my wallet/cardholder/keys and the last segment for wet wipes, Kleenex, mint, hair tie for the girls and any other miscellaneous items. I like how it doesn’t misshapen the bag and after you empty your belongings, it is nice and flag again.
Katherine
July 23, 2016 at 2:17 pmThank you!!
Amy
July 22, 2016 at 1:12 pmI continue to really enjoy your blog. One of my very few blog reads at this point!
Used the Nordstrom sale to splurge on the leather jacket I’ve been wanting! Love your picks!
I love YSL. I have a black Mini Y crossbody/clutch and my only frustration is that it feels a bit too small once I get my phone in it. But I use it all the time. YSL chains are really nice (and Chanel is the standard by which I judge all chains, lol!). I really want a red crossbody and have been eyeing the Gucci Disco. When I see it out and about, the big G’s turn me off though. Also, it looks a bit big, but I’m not sure. The WOC is lovely, but I couldn’t justify the price point when I knew it would be too small for me…..which is how I ended up with the YSL
I love the tassel and logo feature on the one you linked to today, but WOW, nearly 1k for what is basically a pouch would be a bit hard for me to swallow.
Katherine
July 22, 2016 at 1:40 pmTHanks so much Amy! I totally get your comment about the G’s and that’s iffy for me…it’s why I chose the color (rose beige) that I thought was the most subtle logo wise for mine. You’re right about the cost of the pouch, especially compared to the Celine which has three pouches! Ha!
Hui
July 22, 2016 at 1:42 pmI think one of the reasons why Birkin and Kelly, or Hermes in general can sell their products at such a high price and still maintaining the high demand is the brand’s constant and superb quality. Another comparable example is : Rolex watch. The reason why Rolex can always be the top sellor (whild having always the same old look) in which ever multibrand watch shop in the whole world is another example of how good quality succeeds and sustains.
K
July 22, 2016 at 3:36 pmI own Hermes & a Rolex watch. Love & wear them all the time so I naturally agree with you!!
Vivian
July 22, 2016 at 10:32 pmKatherine, I’m a big fan of Celine Trio and it’s my go to travel purse, seriously I’m drooling over my friend’s lizard version and perhaps an excuse to get another one.
Katherine
July 23, 2016 at 2:19 pmNow I’m very very tempted by this bag…ha! What size is yours?
Vivian
July 26, 2016 at 4:35 pmMine is the large size but i think even the regular size would fit all my daily essentials. I like the idea of having 3 small bags so that I can slip my boarding pass and passport in one and my phone/wallet in another. I just hate when I need something it takes me 20 sec to dig it out from my bag.
Mikki
July 23, 2016 at 3:43 amHave you ever tried on Aquatalia boots? They are the most comfortable I’ve ever owned and I have amassed 4 pair over the last few years – all booties of varying heel heights. Nordstrom has 2 for the anniversary sale this year that are very similar to 2 that I own and wear all the time. This is the 1st year Nordstrom has offered on trend Aquatalia for their sale.
Katherine
July 23, 2016 at 1:44 pmI LOVE Aquatalia! One of my favorite pairs is from the brand. I wore mine to death in Boston and they survived the rain and snow. They’re the best!
Mikki
July 24, 2016 at 3:16 amI always get from their site now. They rotate quickly so if something is new today, in a few months it’ll be 50% off.
Katherine
July 24, 2016 at 8:12 pmThat’s really interesting. I’ll keep my eyes peeled, thank you!
TC
July 23, 2016 at 9:35 amRe the 1843 Birkin article: is the Birkin in the picture fake?
Katherine
July 23, 2016 at 1:43 pmLOL maybe! I just noticed. It’s The Economists’ photo!