Saturday, August 13, 2011

Kate Spade and Current Elliott Team Up for “Westward”

East Coast meets West Coast (literally) with this new collaboration line via two of my favorites: Kate Spade and Current Elliott.

The Westward capsule collection consists of “travel-perfect leather pieces, ideal for trains, planes and automobiles.” Sounds perfect!

I LOVE it when my favorite designers come together and create limited edition lines. Last time, I reported on a collaboration between TOMS and the Row; this go around, I’m exploring what “Westward” has to offer.

As a girly-girl with an affection for all things classy, I’ve been an avid follower of Kate Spade for years. While so many college fashionistas flock to Coach (I do too, but I’ve learned to spread my wings!), I’ve managed to fall for Deborah Lloyd's (creative director of Kate Spade) adorable bright colored bags, whimsical jewelry and oh-so perfect flats and pumps time and time again. Who am I to blame though – everything at Kate Spade is just so fun and fabulous!

Although I’m somewhat of a newbie to Current Elliott, I do own one pair of their jeans…AND love them! Always on the hunt for the best jeans (i.e. high quality denim, unique design, and impeccable fit), I know a good pair of jeans when I see them. The Current Elliott jeans that I own are no exception. In a medium wash, with Jackson Pollock inspired paint splatters and a skinny leg fit, they are more than I could ask for!

Emily and Meritt were inspired by inspired by “vintage luggage, travel cases, old locks, doctor bags, school satchels, dopp kits and a traveling dustbowl circus troop.”

So, what do you get when you pair effortless California chic and glamorous Upper East Side style? Westward, of course! Aimed toward girls who are always on the go – whether it be work, class, a night out on the town, or in route to their next destination – Emily Current and Meritt Elliott wanted to create bags that could be used from day to night.

Regardless of your style (or hectic schedule), one of the handbags featured below is sure to strike your fancy! Enjoy!

Westward Runaway Duffle and Ingénue Clutch

Classy and chic, not tacky and cheap!

Just the right amount of shine: not too much, not too little! Of all the bags in the collection, the Runaway duffle is my favorite. Since I already own a Kate Spade duffle shaped bag (in Kelly green!), I am an instant fan of this one!

Normally when I hear that a bag is made entirely of sequins, I think one of three things:

  1. That it’s incredibly tacky and will fall to pieces…
  2. That it’s too flashy (let’s face it, a faux pas) and thus, could only be pulled off at night
  3. That no one in their right mind would carry a sequined bag unless they are a teeny bopper (with an eye for all things sparkly)

Coming in two shapes: the duffle and clutch, Westward makes it possible for savvy girls to wear sequins to work, school and sophisticated cocktail parties. Because the sequins used to embellish these two bags are ultra small (not big and circular), the sparkle effect is subtle. With a brown leather handle and detailing, both bags are completely appropriate for day and night. Phew!


Westward Adventurer Satchel and Curiosities Satchel

Leather bags in neutral shades of leather (nude, navy blue, dark roast) are instant investment pieces. Get one now!

Ah, the neutrals. While statement-making bags are great, some days a simple bag is all you need. (There is nothing worse than having a bag that outshines your ensemble!) The adventurer and curiosities satchels are no-nonsense bags that are perfect for any spontaneous escapade. You’ll never have to worry about it being too frilly, too flashy, or too much. Sometimes, keeping it simple is the way to go!

And did I mention that it’s super conventional? When it comes to ensembles, wear it with jeans, a LBD or your favorite floral skirt. Basically anything - perfection every time!


Westward Adventurer Satchel, Ingénue Clutch and Traveler Wallet

Tired of your typical leather bags? Maybe it’s time to give Italian ostrich a try!

Less feminine, more masculine, these bags are for true adventurers who aren’t afraid to get their feet wet. For those seeking a practical bag, you’ve found your match. Meant for anyone with a cool understated style, this would look divine when worn with your go-to jeans, white tee and black blazer.

And, of course, let’s not forget about the traveler wallet. If you’re going to invest in a new handbag for your travels, you should get something to store your money, credit cards and passport in too. I mean…you might as well!

Bottom Line: The more I look at these bags, the more I like them. The taupe color is gorgeous. The ostrich embossed leather is alluring. And the TEXTURE is superb. Nothing about them is boring or passé.

If you’re in love with the satchel or clutch shaped bags but are looking for something a bit different – go for the Italian ostrich!


Westward Wanderlust Satchel
This bag is perfect for fashionistas with a “desire to travel” (hence the name – Wanderlust).

Both of these bags are quintessential for girls with a 9 to 5 schedule (give or take a few hours). Throw in a water bottle, a Moleskine notebook, your beauty essentials and maybe even a little snack…and there is still room for more! Now, that’s what I call a bag!

With a handle and a strap, you can carry this bag one of two ways: either on your shoulder or cradled in your arm, Blair Waldorf style. You pick! Think the outsides of these bags are gorgeous? Wait until you see the inside: printed cabana vintage stripe lining…


What do you think of Westward?

Which bag is your favorite?

Which designer would you like to see collaborate with Kate Spade next?

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