tote

Ever since they decided to ban plastic shopping bags here in San Francisco a few months ago, fashionable alternatives have really been on my mind. We've talked about the Anya Hindmarch "I'm Not a Plastic Bag" Tote, and the Marc by Marc canvas tote (got it!), but this new option may be my favorite yet.

The Baggu ("bag" in Japanese), $8, is made out of super strong ripstop material - it holds 25 lbs of groceries, which is equal to the amount 2 to 3 plastic grocery bags can carry! It's machine washable, ethically made in China, and can be folded into a really small pocket-sized pouch when it's not being used. Best of all, it's cute enough that you won't just want to take it to the grocery store - it'll end up going with you (and me) to the beach, the gym, on the airplane - everywhere!

It's about that time of year when I get a serious hankering to go to the beach. I don't know about you, but Ibiza or Cancun or even Myrtle Beach is sounding really good right about now! And what could make a stay at the beach more enjoyable than a seriously cute beach bag? This week's Life and Style has a few adorable options. I especially love the coral straw bag!

To see some of my beach bag favorites, read more

Tse, the company known for its sophisticated cashmere (but it also sells wools, silks and cottons) is now providing refined and functional totes for its well-heeled customers. Currently there are four styles, my favorite being the Dark Ink/Cinder Double Face Cashmere Shopper Tote; call for pricing info. The mix of navy blue and dark brown works quite well and would be darling with dark, wide-legged jeans, a crisp, tucked in white tee, and a grey cardi.

To see the rest of Tse's bags, read more