giveaway VINCA USA

Vinca is an adorable line of leather accessories with a few jewelry pieces thrown in. With motifs that range from simple florals to hammerhead sharks - the designer definitely gives off a fun eclectic vibe. Recently Vinca's work was featured on the runway as part of the Pin Show.

The giveaway is for all the pieces featured above: purse, cuff, necklace and 2 barettes.

To enter the giveaway (US addresses only):
1. Leave a comment here with your email (or other way of contacting you if you are worried about spam).
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5 fave black bags

When the going gets tough, the tough needs to buy a good old black leather bag. Of course, I want to support the independent designers there, so here we are. These bags are a fabulous twist on a favorite staple - and I have been with out a LBB for a few years - so I'm going shopping. Or at least I will be making some heavy Xmas present hints!

FEATURING:
+ black leather tote, $99, the leather store
+ black leather bucket bag, $158, your purse
+ black leather flower bag, $70, kindom
+ annie black leather bag, $180, rennes-le-château
+ onishi black leather bag, $269, valhalla

bags + PURSECUTION

Ahh, finally a clutch for girls who just won't let go. Sure it's chunky and riveted and has a shoulder strap - but the cuff is what maketh this bag! The bag is loving (probably) fashioned out of grey leather by Minneapolis designer, Persecution, and completes a line of bold leather bags and accessories.

Check out more at the designers website: pursecution.etsy.com

hell for leather

One of the things that most impresses me about independent designers is the level of quality and craftsmanship. I know this is not always the case.

However, when I hear "indie" design, I get the impression that the product is fun and funky, but not sophisticated or long lasting. I think this is why I shy away from the term "indie" and say "independent" or "emerging" design instead. Yes, it's semantics - but I think it makes a difference to how people see and buy design.

The leather work from these designers is stylish and timeless. I would like to think they would be equally at home in the collection of a Prada wearing executive as well as an artistic individualist.

Clockwise:
+ rini bag, $285, neiko
+ laptop pad, $40, atelier olu
+ portfolio/document case, $95, choochat
+ journal, $25, mja designs