Store Appeal

Be&D Handbags, Shoes and Accessories

Store Appeal: Very rarely does an American designer craft handbags that could pass for the Old World glory that is seen in Chanel and Balenciaga – with the exception of Marc Jacobs.  But many American handbag designers have a very streamlined, modern interpretation, which is not a fault, but they find it hard to recreate what’s already been so successful in Europe for over a century.  American designer handbag line Be&D does a brilliant job of melding the two for modern twist on an old favorite, though this is not by accident.  Be&D, which was founded in 2004 by Be Inthavong and Steve Dumain, is now helmed solely by Dumain, who grew up with an affection for antique luggage and in college studied international business, Spanish and art. The handbags, shoes and other leather goods are modern and sexy, but carry elegant and flattering lines. Just what every woman wants.  My personal favorite is the Be&D Kan Kan Tote.

Our Vote: While the online store is easily navigable, the photos are only one-dimensional and can be a bit lackluster, particularly when trying to demonstrate the detail of the fabrics, materials and hardware used on the products. Nonetheless, the shopper still gets a decent idea of what the product might feel and look like in hand, and fortunately, the dimensions and vivid descriptions of the materials used in each product are listed.

Our Favorites:

1.    Be&D Kan Kan Tote - $1,390

2.    Be&D Rizzo Shoes – $458

3.    Be&D Dallas Tote - $895

Kenneth Jay Lane Accessories + More

Store Appeal: I love a good funky chunky bracelet once in a while, and Kenneth Jay Lane‘s collection of bracelets has definitely won me over.  The designs range from simple and chic to funky and organic looking. The bracelets are a guaranteed conversation starter, take for example these safari bracelets seen on Hilary Duff.  They’re cute and funky, but not in a gaudy, pre-teen way. Don’t be afraid to have some fun with his great costume jewelry. It adds pizazz to any boring outfit you’d like to update in your closet!

Our Vote: It was impossible to find an official Kenneth Jay Lane website with all his jewelry in an easy to view layout.  Everything I found was either on QVC or specifically for buyers to purchase wholesale. In other words, I highly recommend looking at beso.com’s collection of Kenneth Jay Lane accessories. I was specifically looking at the bracelets, but there are necklaces, pendants, rings, watches and more.

Our Favorites:

1. Kenneth Jay Lane Chunky Link Bracelet, $225.00.

2. Kenneth Jay Lane Tiger Bracelet, $112.00.

3. Kenneth Jay Lane White Enamel Linked Curve Bracelet, $140.00. Check out the amazing design details!:

Shop more Kenneth Jay Lane

Designer Showcase: Jill Stuart

Store Appeal: New York fashion designer Jill Stuart made her debut in 1993 but according to her NY Magazine bio, her collection really took off with the 1995 release of the movie “Clueless“. Those plaid skirts and knee highs Cher Horowitz donned were all Jill’s doing, creating a spark of interest in her fun sportswear collection and helping her brand really take off. Since then, her label has come a long way, with stores in the Hamptons and Japan, a growing beauty collection, perfume, watches, and other accessories.

Our Vote: Jill’s aesthetic is sexy, sophisticated, and New York chic. Her collection reaches a broad audience, from feminine and frilly to vintage/military influences.  The website showcases her runway collections and ad campaigns from current and previous years, and it has a store listing with online retailers as well.

Our Favorites:

1. This lovely number, a one-shoulder tulle party dress, is over 64% off!  Jill Stuart One-Shoulder Tulle dress, $71.28.

2. Jill Stuart Linen and Lace Zip front dress, $498.00.

3. Jill Stuart Strapless dress with Flowers, $228.00.