United Colors of Benetton: Accessories

Whenever I think of this store, I feel a certain kind of resentment because it replaced a fond childhood memory of mine: the big Sanrio store on Stockton Street. Since we cannot do anything to what has already been done, let's talk about it's replacement. Every time I pass by this store, there is always some kind of sale going on, but I never feel intrigued enough to buy anything. Anyway, I notice I'm a lot more drawn to their accessories than their clothes, which is not very good for profit if clothes are supposed to be your main selling point. (If my business tips sound crazy, maybe they are.) Their designs aren't the most innovative, but they seem very refined and polished. In cases like these, execution becomes more important than design.

‘Bubble’ Eco-leather Bag

I think they did a good job using the crinkle effect on the leather because it would look quite generic otherwise. It's a good day to evening bag, in my opinion.

Eco-leather bag with Croc Print

This bag reads "sophisticated schoolgirl" to me. It's very sleek, rectangular, and glossy. It might be a little too sexy for an actual schoolgirl to carry, but it's definitely a boost of style. Now, if you're wondering what "eco-leather" is, it's basically 80% cotton and 20% synthetic microfiber. (It's important to learn about sustainable practices.)

Patent Ankle Boots with Openwork

To be honest, I don't really like these, I just wanted to make a comparison with the shoe version of this. I guess they could make nice rain boots.

Lace Up Patent Shoes

Although, I'm not sure a lot of women would be willing to wear these, I think they make great winter shoes. They'd look even better with white tights. You'll probably end up looking like tap dancer, but is that a bad thing?

Lace Up Leather Sneakers

I love a wingtip shoe, especially when designers find clever ways to interpret it. You guys should by now that I don't like athletic fashion, but rather athletic-inspired fashion. This is a great example of an athletic-inspired shoe. You can dress up or down and look great with these shoes, they're incredibly versatile.

Leather Openwork Messenger Bag

Perforated leather is hard to pull off. It either looks really tacky or really good. Color is also a really important factor when it comes to perforated leather. I saw this bag in brown, and it did not look as good as this one. This is a good bag for someone on the go. And if I hadn't gotten my Givenchy bag, I probably would get this one.

Hooded Scarf

This what I call practical, fashion forward, and fashionably humorous. Sometimes, it's not just about looking "cool," it's about finding the "funny" in fashion. The hooded scarf is a little costume-y, but it's hard for a guy to wear a scarf on his head and not look like a 1940s Hollywood actress or babushka. I really wanted to get this, but the store did not carry it because the buyer didn't order it in. It just comes to show you the conservativeness of people's style.

Lifestyle Eyewear Eyeglasses

I'm in search for a new pair of glasses because my current ones are all scratched up and dull. I like the dual black and white of this pair. It's very "smart" looking.

Courtesy of United Colors of Benetton

Givenchy Sale

Jomashop is having a sale, but the only things that seem to really be discounted are their Givenchy items. Do people even know about Givenchy anymore? I mean, all I hear people mention are brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Juicy Couture, Bottega Veneta, Lanvin. This year really has not been a great year for the fashion house. Anyway, I've always been a fan, but have never been able to buy anything from them because their price ranges about the same as the brands I mentioned. That's why it's so exciting for me to finally own something "luxurious" without actually spending the luxury because I'm very aware of the current economy. Jomashop claims to be a certified luxury goods provider and does not affiliate itself with counterfeit. It has developed a relationship witho Yahoo shopping with a large clientele. We'll see about that.

Givenchy Tan Leather Large Messenger Bag
Retail: $660.00, Sale: $310.00, Final Sale: $178.00

I ended up getting this one because I was in search of the perfect "murse" a.k.a man bag, and this one suddenly appeared. I saw some really cool bags from Raf Simons for Eastpak, Comme des Garcons, Y-3, Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Pringle of Scotland, but they were all so expensive. I then looked for alternative brands like Freitag, Chrome, Jack Spade and just could not see myself with any of them. So after looking for a long time, I actually found what I'm looking for. As of now, I'm still waiting for it to be delivered.

Givenchy Brown Leather Messenger Bag
Retail: $720.00, Sale: $324.00, Final Sale: $180.00

This was my second choice. It's a practical bag with very subtle details of luxury. But that being said, for what it's worth, I guess I was expecting more. I mean, it's even more expensive than what I picked.

Givenchy Black Patterned Coated Canvas Messenger Bag
Retail: $520.00, Sale: $234.00, Final Sale: $130.00

I thought about getting this because it was the cheapest Givenchy item there. But the more I looked at it, it reminded me of my mom's Nine West bag. Someone gave it a good review, but it did not change my mind.

Givenchy Gold or Silver Leather Multi-Zip Hobo Bag
Retail: $750.00, Sale: $379.97, Final Sale: $229.97

This is what I love about Givenchy: architectural sophistication. The zippers are all nicely placed. I have a hard time figuring out which one I like better. Normally, I'd say silver because I don't really like the color gold. However, this gold hobo looks pretty damn good.

Givenchy Black Leather 1952 Boston Bag
Retail: $480.00, Sale: $245.97, Final Sale: $149.97

I think this is a miss for Riccardo Tisci, or maybe my expectations are just too high. This bag feels very uninspiring, and kind of looks like every other bag out there.

Givenchy Black or Black & White Medium Wallet
Retail: $610.00/$580.00, Sale: $267.00/$139.00, Final Sale: $145.00/$139.00

Dang, these wallets cost just as the bags. I mean, they look nice, but they shouldn't be as expensive. I also wonder why the black on black one costs more than the black and white one.

Courtesy of Jomashop

Remember Skechers?

I remember when Skechers were all the rage in middle school. It was the only good alternative to the overrated K-Swiss, Adidas, and Converse All-Stars. (I kind of miss the days of the schoolyard hierarchy.) I feel like they're always trying to make a comeback, but I'm not sure if they have. From everything I rememeber, their business and popularity peak was between 2000-2002. Sometimes, I try liking them again. But I have a hard time because I personally, am not very interested athletic apparel. Hopefully, they'll do something in the future that will change my mind.

Men's Energy 2 Cruise Control $53.00

This is the same shoe I had back then, which is what they're known for. I always thought the women's color choices were a lot more interesting than the men's, which sucked for me because I'm someone who's not afraid of color. Well, I still think the shape of this shoe is flattering for people of any size.

Men's Piers $68.00

I would've liked these a few years ago, but my taste has since changed. However, if I am ever in another P.E. class again, I'll wear these.

Men's Klone $45.00

I actually think these shoes are kind of cute. I would wear them if I could, but they have a striking resemblance to Vans. I personally, find it hard to wear something when there are tons of people wearing the same thing as you, which is why I wouldn't be able to wear these.

Men's Alteration Caaba $72.00

This is a good example an athletic shoe company trying to sophisticate their brand. Honestly, does it ever really work? It's not bad looking, but it just doesn't work.

Women's Bikers Step Up $49.00

I guess this shoes has its functional purpose and is somewhat flattering as a Mary-Jane, but at the same time, I don't know many women who would wear it other than for riding bikes.

Women's Octanes Glorify $55.00

This shoe reminds me of Saucony, which I think is okay. Anyway, this might be just me saying this, but I think it would help if they made this for their men's line because as a man, I think it has a good shape to it.

Women's Bikers Cage $57.00

This is another biker shoe. I actually think this one is more functional than the other one because when you're biking, the last thing you want is a strap. Even though the other one might be more aesthetically pleasing, this one is more functional.

Women's Bestgirl $55.00

I actually think Skechers did a good job with this one because it's a little sporty, yet very "chic" (I never use that word). I also think think shoe is very flexible with age because a little girl or old lady can look good in it.

Courtesy of Skechers

Quirky accessories for your home

I'm not an expert when it comes into the arena of interior design. But like fashion, you shouldn't be so serious all the time. Have fun with it. Quirky accessories tell a lot about our personalities.

Recycled Glass Head $15.00

What does one do with a glass head? I mean, it is a little creepy to have a decapitated-looking head in your room. I guess you could use it as a wig stand or hat mannequin, but I'd personally would fill it up with something (maybe paper stars, like the ones I used to fold as a kid).

Carton Vase $6.95

This vase is very random, but very cute. You can use it as a vase, pencil holder, or literally as a milk carton. You can a ton of fun with it. It'd make a great gift, plus, the price is not bad.

Fungi Low Table Lamp $79.99

These lamps are adorable. They look like toadstools from a Super Mario video game, especially the green one. Stick on a few white dot stickers, and it'll really look like one. For what it's worth though, $79.99 is kind of asking for a lot.

TV Frame $18.00

I remember when I was a kid, I thought you could just go inside a television. Well, it has come true with this picture frame. Simply put a picture of one of your favorite memories, and it'll be playing on TV forever.

Novelty Whatever Wall Clock $14.99

Time can be such a bitch sometimes. That is why this is the perfect clock for not keeping track of it. Hey, the "Whatever!" says it all.

Wood Calendar Box $29.99

When I was a kid, my dad got me this wooden block calendar that I could change everyday. It was very educational, let me tell you. Unfortunately, I grew lazy, and stopped using it. This calendar takes less effort and is much easier to use than than block calendar.

Courtesy of Pier 1 Imports, CB2, Target, EQ3, Urban Outfitters

I sure love me some Doc Martens.

Their signature yellow stitch is like the signature Christian Louboutin red sole, except this brand is a lot more unisex. Throughout the years, this company has created some pretty awesome shoes for people like me.

Patrice Black Nappa CBR $70.00

These shoes are adorable, yet still maintains its edginess. It kind of reminds me of those kung-fu shoes they sell in those souvenir shops in Chinatown. However, these are much cooler.

3989 Dark Brown Zenith $110.00

I have a pair of wingtip Docs, but mine isn't as classic as this one. Well, I did buy mine from Ross for $24.99 afterall. Had I found this at Ross for the same price, I would've gotten this one. Oh well.

1460 Womens Black+Rose Stripe Patent $110.00

Ooh, patent leather! The whole ombre patent leather combination is reminiscent of the shoes from Prada's Fall/Winter 2007 collection. Are these "out?" Yes, but who cares if they are; they're gorgeous.

Vintage 1460 Oxblood Quilon $150.00

I own a pair of the original style of Doc Martens, which are a little on the boring side. Had I known I had more color choices, I would've chosen this one. They actually do have a pair of these in this color (less expensive too), but they just don't look as nostalgic.

Anyway, prominent Japanese designer, Yohji Yamamoto has collaborated with the company to create a whole new line. I like Yohji Yamamoto's designs and his diffusion line, Y-3, but this collection kind of sucks. Also the price range is way too high for me to like. I'd just stick to good old Doc Martens.

Yohji 10 Eye Boot Black + White Softy T $570.00

I think this one is okay, but the color contrast is too much. I also feel like for $570, I could totally just get a pair of classic Docs and paint the front and tongue white.

Yohji Strip Boot Dark Brown Grizzly $600.00

This is my favorite form the collection because it's the only one that's obviously different. I didn't like this one in black because the buckles made it a little too S&M.

Yohji 10 Eye Boot Black Canvas $520.00

A canvas boot. Now that's a first. I actually like this one because it's an interesting take on the classic Doc Martens. It's still kind of expensive for canvas though.

Homme 10 Eye Boot Blue Illusion $890.00

I do like this shade of blue, but I have a rule when it comes to blue shoes: don't wear them with blue jeans. This pair really stands out from the others, but I still don't think it should cost $900...Yohji Yamamoto or not.

Courtesy of Dr. Martens

It's winter and getting all rainy. I hate the umbrella I have right now, and am planning to get a new umbrella.

Sky Umbrella $48.00

This is the first one I looked at and wanted. It's from the MOMA, which is why the price is so high. Anyway, I love the idea of the black on the outside and the bright sky inside. I'm sure it could cheer up anyone during a walk in the rain. There's a mini version, but it just doesn't look or seem to work as well as this one would.

Color Spectrum Umbrella $40.00

I did not think I would like this umbrella when I first saw it because it had too much color to it. But after reading the description about it, and understanding the scientific background (color spectrum), it kind of grew on me. I like the silver handle, which makes it a lot more sleek and not look like one of those beach umbrellas or playchutes I played with in elementary school. Still this umbrella is kind of expensive because it's also from the MOMA.

Slang Print Umbrella $16.00

This is the most controversial umbrella I've ever seen, and I'm always in for controversy. Imagine walking in the streets, and just cussing people out without saying a word. However, you might want to avoid children. Then again, they'll learn anyway. I also love that this umbrella at a reasonable price. I might just get this one because of that.

Galleria Paris Auto Stick Umbrella $26.99

When I think of Paris, "epic romance" comes to mind. The umbrella portrays the city in such a perfect place fall in love that it gives me hope. I realize how pathetic it is to believe in something because an umbrella makes you feel so.

Auto-Open Wooden Duck Handle Umbrella $16.99

Purple is currently my favorite color. I actually think this a woman's umbrella, but I don't care, I still like it. I've always wanted a duck handle umbrella; I just could never find one I liked. This is the perfect one.

Totes Stripe Jumbo Family Umbrella Black/White $19.99

This umbrella is very mesmerizing. It's what my friend would call a good "LSD trip." Hey, if I could mesmerize people with my umbrella, why not?

Futai Futai Umbrella/Walking Stick $67.99

I love the multifunction-ness of this umbrella. It could be an umbrella when it's raining or a cane when you're old. I do not have those kind of geriatric concerns yet, but I want it regardless. It sure is expensive though.

Courtesy of Amazon, MOMA

I love A&F, and it's not Abercrombie & Fitch!

Anzevino and Florence is an L.A. based company specializing in designs for those who to find some individuality in a sea of convention because in L.A., you're pretty much screwed if you don't look like everyone else. The cool thing is Anzevino brings in a bit of East Coast flair while Florence brings in some West Coast swing. They are artists first, so design is secondary to them. But I think when you use the concept of art for your design vision, everything turns out a lot more interesting.

Nirvana Flannel $152.00

I like the idea of this shirt, but I would not wear this because it does not look consistent enough. If you're using different plaids, use it for every part of the shirt, not just the sleeves.

Brit Coat $128.00 (on sale for $68.00)

It's a zip and button-up hoodie. It's a little traditional, but what makes it modern is the fleece. Fleece makes everything modern and casual.

Hooded Dress Shirt $118.00

When you think about it, it's not even that hard to come up with. I'm just amazed that it came out. I'm defintiely going to get this when it becomes an accessible price.

Float Cardigan $220.00

This cardigan is crazy looking, but it sure is a show-stopper. It's ethereal in a very casual way; you don't always have to dress up to look like a princess. The drape is so long that you can not stop looking at it.

Sylvester Coat Dress $308.00

Now, I've never really been a fan of polyester/nylon coats, but this coat dress is amazing. Who knew parkas could ever be formal?

Dinner Bell Dress $174.00 (on sale for $90.00)

I think this dress is kind of ugly, but that is exactly what I find so endearing about it. That green with the different materials on the bottom give this dress great potential for disaster. I'm sure if you go to the prom in this dress, people will cringe, but at least you'll know that you were original.

Courtesy of Anzevino and Florence