Clothing That Shines

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When I was a little girl, I remember shopping with my mom and always running toward the shiny satin fabrics and sequined dresses. And every year, when my dance costumes arrived for my approaching recital I would always choose the outfit with the most sequins as my favorite. Back then and even now, I would jump to wear these Top Shop sparkles below.

 

Spring and summer clothes are always so bright and happy, but one thing you rarely see is sparkle and shine. The fall and winter fashion seasons are always sprinkled with glitter and sequins, and, in my opinion, makes the cooler months superior. haha!

Yes, metallic fabrics, head-to-toe sequins and giant gems can be gaudy at times, but I think every gal needs something sparkly in her wardrobe even if it's a giant jeweled collar or sparkly shoes likes these Kate Spade ones.

Check out some shiny, affordable options below and add some sparkle to your closet!

Summer Clutch

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Random fact: I have not purchased one single handbag in 10 years. Yep! You might be thinking, "How is that possible, especially being a stylist?" I guess I'm just not that girl that gets obsessed over shoes and handbags. I have big feet and I'm too lazy to always change purses. BUT one type of "handbag" I don't own yet is an over sized clutch. I love how they are big enough to hold your cell phone, wallet, keys and makeup, but not bulky enough to wear your shoulder out. Plus, they transition well from day to night.

So, here are some of my top picks for summer clutches:

1. BCBG Harlow Laser Cut Clutch - I love this clutch because it embodies the summer trend of white lace. It's something that you can wear with a sun dress, cocktail dress or even jeans. It retails at $128, but if that's too steep for you, try the BCBG Harlow Clutch in gold for only $51.00.

2. Metallic Linen Clutch - Linen is obviously a summer fabric. With the addition of a metallic sheen and a tassel, this over sized clutch screams summer trendsetter. Just like bag #1, this clutch would go with everything, but is perfect for someone who likes things a bit less feminine. $72.00

3. Black and white stripes - This Kate Spade bag is timeless and memorable. It's a bit pricey retailing at $268, but if you really want to invest in a show stopper this is a good choice.

4. Blush envelope clutch - Blush is still popular, and will remain as a neutral in a woman's color palette. Pastel colors in general had a huge breakout this year, so you can count on them remaining in 2013. This clutch is only $32.50, so why not invest in a hot trend at such a low price?!

5. Glitter clutch - Who doesn't love a good pop of glitter? Add it to your t-shirt and jeans ensemble for a wow factor or make it the icing on the cake with your New Year's outfit. Not to mention gold is here to stay. So, while you may have already stocked up on plenty of silver glittery things, you might want to make room for golden hues too.

Kate Spade

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My first designer handbag was a giraffe print Kate Spade purse. I can remember the moment when I saw it. I was 14 years old, it was around Christmas time and I was walking through Neiman Marcus feeling awkward because I wasn't dressed up enough, and then I saw it...black leather straps, boxy shape, red silk inside and fuzzy giraffe print on the outside. I begged and begged my mom to make this purse my Christmas and birthday gift combined (my birthday is in June). haha. Needless to say, she honored my request and I brought that bag to school every day!

I have been a big supporter of Kate Spade ever since, and I'm really loving this year's ad campaigns. Kate Spade always uses color in fun, cute, sassy and classic ways.

Here is an outfit inspired by their Spring 2010 ad campaign...