Obsessed About Arm Candy

And I'm not just talking about that cute other half you have.
I'm talking about Satchels, clutches, and totes or maybe for you fellas our there briefcases and ipad cases- designer IPad cases for those so inclined. I mean, the holiday season is fast approaching. Who doesn't love a little arm candy?

Chanel

Oscar De La Renta

Let's start with the IPad case. Tech and haute couture unite when designers like Burberry, Chanel, and Oscar De La Renta design logo clad cases for the IPad. Now, the price tags aren't as slim as the Apple creation, but if you need it, they make it. Or, you could just go with Apple's IPad case. But what's the fun in that?

Burberry

Next, let's discuss the Satchel; or what I like to call a modern day woman's carryall. From the higher end Chloe Padlock Satchel to Marc Jacobs to a less expensive version from Nine West, there is no shortfall of choices; you're sure to find one at your price point. Speaking from experience; even the smaller sized satchels fit everything you could ever need.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Baby Aiden

Plain Jane Satchel- Nine West

Chloe Large Padington

Tano Biggest Coup

Street Level

How about a little something under your arm? Clutches are great for running errands or out to dinner with family or friends. Here are some of my favorites.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Bentley 

Let's not forget the business person in your life! Whether woman or man, there is a need to carry around your business supplies. 

If you can swing it, these are by far my favorites, courtesy of Bottega Veneta and Louis Vuitton. But, assuming the average person doesn't have an extra 2-3,000 laying around....

 

Obviously, budgets during the holidays are strict, so here are some less pocket draining beauties.

Kate Spade Beantown Quin

 

Big Buddha Empire

Zegari The Minimalist

Fossil

I could go on and on about arm candy in the form of handbags; but I'll spare you. Hopefully I've lent you a hand in selecting a perfect sized accessory!

Love the designer, Hate the price?

I am sure you've been hit by the "oh my gosh I must have this *insert designer name here* bug at one point or another.


Haven't we all...


Here are my top 5 sites for you to check out for less expensive swanky gear that won't empty your wallet-

1. Gilt Group Often still has extremely high end items (Why, hello Ms. Herrera, wonderful to see you here!), but I've scored a deal (or 100) on the site. Burberry shoes, Alice & Trixie frocks, and the lovable Fred Perry for the man in your life have all been shipped to my abode.
2. Rue La La  Of course. I love the La La. Boston based (which I may add is wicked awesome),  they score some great deals- I recently got a Valentino wool sweater for under $50. Insane! 
3. Hautelook Includes some less *well known designer* named brands, but also some really great deals. Glam dresses, Lorac makeup, Joie, and  the occasional Decadestwo sale which showcases your classic Chanel, Chloe, as well as other fancy types. Still can't afford it? Often they send coupon codes in the mail for $15 off, etc. 
4. TheOutnet This place is sick. I drool over the Louboutins on the site, but less frequently buy...UNTIL they have their extra 40% off sale... I scored an Armand Basi two piece for $20. Sign up for the emails and go to the site ASAP when this sale happens as the garb sells out quickly!
5. Ideeli Ideeli showcases the lesser known to the higher end designers, at various price points. Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, and (gasp) even Prabal Gurung (see below, PrabalGurung.com; Fall 2010...Love).

Additional tips: Most of these sites have super sale days...Sundays, Saturday Blow outs, or Wednesday nights. Many also have Final Sale...but make sure you know how Armani fits you, you cannot return it!