Laura Ruddick Handbags

Paris, London, New York...Sydney? Though not quite a major fashion player yet, Australia's biggest city is well on its' way to becoming a fashion fixture thanks to the wildly popular handbags from Australian designer, Rachael Ruddick. Established in 2008, Ruddick's luxury leather goods and accessories are created with a commitment to celebrating classic Australian style and "sense of attitude. A veteran of LVMH, Ruddick was shocked that "the world's most coveted leather from Australia had not been embraced in a fashion sense." Ruddick's holiday collection covers all the bases from bright totes and messenger bags to studded clutches and fabulous tie dye hobo bags. If Rachael Ruddick's collection is any indication, the land down under is rising to the top!

 (modaoperandi.com)

For me, a "diverse" collection equals instant appeal! The "bay street" (pic. one) is my favorite design.

Ranjana Kahn S/S 2012

Featured are some of my favorites from the collection.

(modaoperandi.com)

Speaking of Patricia Field.....

With the holidays swiftly approaching, I'm looking for unique gift items, as well as a few little "trinkets" to add to my own list of wants. If you're looking for some fun pieces, under $100, the Patricia Field site is a good place to start! I've got my eye on the apple cuff, The peacock cuff (#3-the bursts of color are magnificent!), The "lucky charm" pendant necklace (#8) and the peacock necklace (#11).

$36

$32

$48

$48

$26

$56

$20

$72

$130

$38

$88

Kenneth J. Lane, $106

$36

(Images: patriciafield.com)

Hot Feet!

Known for her over-the-top, avant garde, and eclectic designs, Patricia field never disappoints!

(patriciafield.com)

Ettiket

Kristina Taylor

How did you transition into jewelry design?

"I majored in Fashion Design and Merchandising at Wayne State University, but it was my attending the Fashion Institute of Technology that sparked my interest in becoming a designer. After graduation, I moved to New York City and experienced short stints at J. Crew, Anna Sui, and Showroom Seven before landing my “dream job” at Ralph Lauren; where I worked on the design, development, and launch of American Living, a brand developed exclusively for [the American department store] JCPenney in 2008. Initially, I made jewelry for my twin sister, friends, and myself as a hobby. After handling press for designers, attending fashion shows, and working with magazine editors, however, I was inspired to further explore my talents as a designer.

" How would you describe the look and feel of Ettiket?

"I enjoy designing clothes and accessories that tell a story and make women feel good. I featured exotic and tribal influences throughout this collection, allowing women to embrace their boho-chic style. And the necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and turbans all boast batik, ikat, and exoticprints intermingled with vibrant colors and textures." Are there any designers you admire whose careers you wouldn’t mind emulating?"I admire designers [like] Anna Sui and Tracy Reese, both Detroit natives who have an international presence in the industry. Their stories are extremely inspiring and have motivated me to pursue my dreams."

Do you design your jewelry with specific kinds of women in mind?

"Imagine a sophisticated globetrotter gathering trinkets from her travels to Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America, layering her arm and neck with bangles, cuffs, and necklaces made of natural stones, bone and rich fabrics with texture and prints. These pieces are very special to her and tell a story. This is the feeling that I want my pieces to evoke, something special."

(Vogue.it)