THE 6 (best) BAGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD OWN

Let me start out with this:

I understand not all women care about purses/bags. 

Some just have a tote they bought on sale at Gap for $6 and use it everywhere (cough cough me in college).

Some just keep a wallet in their back pocket and call it a day.

I, however, have become a purse hoarder in my wise-old age of 28, and these are the 6 bags I always use for every event I go to.

Is this a shallow / materialistic post?

YES! Congrats! You've figured it out! But believe it or not, I get asked where I buy my purses when I'm out- so this post is for those laaaaadies.

If you're not interested, please move along. I don't care for the "why are you posting about bags there are more important issues in the world" comments today.

I'm aware there are more important issues in the world, however, some people like to take their minds off of those issues for a few minutes a day and read post about bags. So. Back. Off.

Rant over.

For those of you that are interested, these are the 6 bags that I own (or versions of, if the ones I own are sold out) that I use for every even possible. Work, Working out, Weddings; you name it, these cover it.

Read below for the details!

The Crossbody Bags.

I own 3 cross body bags- each a different color and size, in a specific order. Am I neurotic? Yes! But here's why:

1. The small, neutral greyish-blushish crossbody: I own a slightly older model of this Kate Spade Cedar Hill Cross Body. I use this bag exclusively for weddings/fancy events where I want my dress to be the attention-grabber- and the purse solely to function as a place to store my phone, my money, my lipstick, and a ton of bandages for when my high heels rip apart my feet after dancing for 5 hours straight. This bag runs about $148 at full price, but you can totally find cheaper versions like THIS one.

2. The small-but-slightly-larger black crossbody: This is usually my night-on-the-town purse. Black because it goes with everything and if I spill on it ya can't see it. #truth. It's a little larger that the neutral one above so I can store a few more items in it. Yes, I've gone rogue and used this one at a wedding before. Because I'm a rebel like that. (please tell me sarcasm is coming across on this one). I own a now discontinued Tory Burch number, but the one I show above is neat too. If $300+ isn't in your budget, try THIS one.

3. The halfway handbag- halfway crossbody cognac crossbody: How's that for a clear description? I use this guy when I want to have a relatively low profile bag, but still want to pack my instax camera & a ginger ale. Yes, literally. Because fun fact: I usually have a ginger ale with me wherever I go...but that's a story for another day. This Michael Kors one is exactly the one I own and have used for get-togethers or blog events. It'll run you about $228, but HERE is a cheaper one.

The Tote Bags.

I could write an ode to totes. Because they have all the space in the world and I love them:

4. The canvas zip-top tote: I have a couple of these- one is my gym bag and the other is my work computer bag & and most importantly- my travel bag. The zip top is AMAZING because you can close it and tuck it under a seat on an airplane and your cell phone and tampons won't fly under your seat and cause you to ask your neighbor to help you pick them up #beenthere. These bags will run you about $30-$40 at LLBean/Lands' End, so I'm not even going to offer a cheaper version, cuz that's hella cheap.

5. The nylon packable tote: I love this bag because if you spill on it- or you get caught in a rainstorm- it doesn't get ruined. That's because it's super durable nylon! Plus, when empty it packs up into a tiny rectangle- which is great when you're travelling and want more than one purse option when you get to your destination- this takes up almost no space in a suitcase. I swear by THIS Longchamp (shown above) which will run you $145, however you can find cheaper nylon bags like THIS one.

6. The oversized leather tote: I alternate between this bag and #5 as my everyday-bring-to-work bags. I own the exact color shown above from Madewell ($170) and now that it's broken in the leather is like buttttahhhh. It holds a ton of stuff and goes with any casual outfit. Plus it's purty on the instagramz. Pretty much everyone and their mother has knocked this bag off, so you can find a cheaper one HERE.

What bag do you swear by?

Are you a hoarder like I am??

xo, lp

proof of the bagz and that i'm not just lying to you:

*also- more proof of bag love on my instagram HERE * 

*also also- no one sponsored this post. i just really like to go on long diatribes about bags. because i'm crazy like that. also, because i'll get fired if i don't mention it- i work for lands' end, but i get NO benefit from posting about that tote at work-swear on my love for bags that i don't. *

SHOPBOP EARRING RAINBOW

You all know that I love me a good rainbow, AND I love jewelry- so why not combine the two?

Shopbop has THE best earring collection, hands down. From Kate Spade to Tory Burch to Gorjana- seriously a color and style for everyone. 

My favorites? These ones below- clearly I'm on a Pink/Turq/Gold/Crystal kick....

For even MORE earring choices- go HERE.

Which pair would you choose to buy?

I'll take every one of these, please!

xo, lp

for more colorful things (especially in rainbow order), find me on instagram---> @lpodlich

Friday's Fancies #56: Spring is here! (sorta)

I'm a team player, so if {av} says the theme this week is about getting ready for spring- I'll go along with it.

Even though it's been an average of 9 degrees when I leave for work lately. Womp-womp.

If it WAS above freezing here, this is what I'd be wearing:

The thought of wearing a sleeveless shirt is crazy talk, partially because the windchill, and partially because my arms are whiter than the snow on the ground. This Equipment two tone silk top is so bright and cheery (and currently almost 70% off. say whaaaat!) and would look great with skinnies or tucked in to a cute skirt!

I'm dying to wear flats again. I freaking hate socks. Yes, I'm one of those weirdos that hates socks. Unless I'm at the gym or trudging through the snow in boots, I'm in flats every chance possible. Gap spring flats kick ass, and love these leopard guys!

As for springy accessories, I look like a Kate Spade groupie- but I'm loving these cheery flower studs, bold floral iPhone case, and neutral catchall bag. 

Is it feeling like spring in your neck of the woods?

Please tell me you don't have to wear a down coat and boots so I can live vicariously through you...

xo, lp

YOU'RE KILLING ME, KATE!

Before you start rolling your eyes and say "LAURA. Kate Spade new arrivals have been out for WEEKS, what a lame blog post", calm yourself.

I'm aware these are hot off the press, but it doesn't make them any less pretty. So chill. Also, if you're calling my blog posts lame...just go away in general. No negative Nancys in this joint! 

Besides having cool new arrivals, dear old Kate is celebrating its 20th year with free shipping and returns in the USA. Boom.

Here are a few of my favorite (not so new) arrivals:

When I talked about J.Crew's Liberty florals I told you all that until age 12 I avoided flowers pretty much like the plague. It's true. But darn it all if some of the kate spade florals are so good looking even Vans, cargo jean wearing me would like them.

Love the flicker fabric tenley, flicker fabric bee, the grove court floral lacey, and the evening belles april.

Stripes are always my jam, and these Hit Your Stride idiom bangles and stripe setting studs are right on par. And as for colorblocking, the green & navy grove court cora and linen & pink charlotte street sloan are my top picks.

Oh, and in my hypothetical iPhone world, this would be my new case. 

What do you love from the (not so) new arrivals?

I have to go with the navy & green grove court cora. I feel like it would go with everything!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #54: Budget Bling

Clearly I love this Friday's Fancies, because I love jewelry. A lot. 

If you follow me on Instagram, you know this already:

(new to B&B? find me here!)

Well, because I'm not made of money I can't just buy designer jewelry all the time. Yes, I believe in investing in classic, staple pieces- but when it comes to over the top, trendy pieces, I don't see a purpose in paying a ridiculous amount! Here are a few of my favorite budget bling finds:

Find #1: Everyone recognizes the J.Crew Venus Flytrap necklace...but did you know you can get one from ASOS for 1/3 of the cost? Not bad, not bad at all.

Find #2: Big ol' sparkly dangly earrings are completely impractical...but totally awesome. Why spend $98 on Kate Spade Petal earrings when you can grab some from ASOS for $25 or $14?

Find #3: Okay. I get Brad Goreski is awesome, and right now the eyeglass jewelry is the way to make your arm/finger/neck his personal shrine...but how long will that last? Come on. $78 for hipster frames when you can grab them for $10? No brainer.

Find #4: Spikes are everywhere- but I can seriously not tell the difference between this CC Skye one at $185 and this ASOS one at $14.

Find #5: Bows. So you want to be ladylike? Good for you. While you're at it be smart like a lady and pay $14 for a bow bracelet instead of $128. Heck, with your $114 savings you can buy a whole handful of them to give to all of your friends.

WAIT: I still haven't convinced you? ASOS offers FREE SHIPPING. Yes, I do own things from Kate Spade and J.Crew...and it always tweaks my nerves when I pay a lot for something...and then still have to pay $10 more bucks for shipping! 

Which budget find to you like best?

I'm all about the first find- basic bling is always best!

xo, lp

DOTS FLOWERS NAILS CURLS (the most stereotypically feminine post title ever)

Howwwwww is it already Monday?

I haven't been feeling up to snuff for a while now- and I managed to sleep 26 hours this weekend. VICTORY.

Michael wins boyfriend of the year award for sure. Friday I was home really sick, and he stopped by on his lunch break to bring me these:

Not bad, right? Nothing makes a sick snowy winter day better than flowers!

In other awesome news, it's my birthday on the 16th, and Michael's on the 17th!!! Yes, our birthdays are really 1 day apart. Yes, I'm one day older. #cougar. I love birthdays a ridiculous amount. Not just mine, but birthdays in general. M and I got our gifts for each other early this year, and couldn't hold back giving them to each other immediately. We are just that immature. Smart man got me this:

I love it. Kate? Polka dots? Yes. He said he got it for me partially because he knew I'd love it...and partially because he hated my old, grandma-like wallet. True love & honesty.

Oh, and I realize I look like a tool posting an instagram with my hand on it, but I painted my nails like a lady for once and decided to show 'em off. 

Early in the week I shared this shot of my favorite gold dotted J.Crew shirt & curls, and my goodness! I hear you people! I'll do a hair tutorial soon! :)

 (find me on Instagram here)

Tomorrow's recipe is so good. Plus, it only takes 5 ingredients. Perfect for those who still haven't figured out a Valentine's treat to make!

Last but not least, you all should go check out the Lands' End Canvas blog... you might just see someone you know there! If you have a tumblr account- please go give the post some love!!

Alright, that's all I've got for you all this week.

What's up with you guys? You east coast friends survive Nemo?

If you feel like sending me birthday presents, just email me and I'll shoot you my address ;)

xo, lp 

THE BEST THING TO WAKE UP TO!

Okay, so maybe I'm exaggerating.

Waking up to winning the lottery, breakfast in bed, and a massage would be the best thing to wake up to...but this is a real life, and those things just don't happen often. 

What IS real life is the Kate Spade surprise sample sale. Up to 75% off the one of the classiest, most ladylike brands out there. PLUS it's a flat $5 for shipping. Boom.

'Tis the time for gifting yourself a little Valentine's Day (or in my case early birthday) gift, right?

Here are some of my favorite items:

1. This "Things we love" wall calendar is only $10 and is mine. Purchased. I plan on framing some of the images once the months are over! 

2. I'm in need of a new makeup case desperately. If you don't believe me I'll email you a picture of my once red-now brown Vera Bradley. This polka dot guy is perfect!

3. Sigh. No iPhone for me, as we all know. Someone get me one so I can get a crossword or stripey case.

4. I always overlook Kate Spade jewelry- but both this pink gem ring and gold diamond one caught my eye.

5. Clearly Kate Spade bags are all lovely - but this cobalt Alexander Ave and Oak Island Stripe Kaleigh stand out for sure!

6. Similar to #3- buy me an iPad too so I can get this Play Hooky case?

7. Last but not least- I have been eyeing KSNY  wallets FOREVER. I always put them in my shopping cart and then my conscience kicks in and says : HEY YOU IDIOT- WHY WOULD YOU SPEND $160 on a WALLET? Yes, I know the whole "cost per use" thing, and yes I use a wallet daily- but I'm stubborn- so there. Now that two of my favorite colors of the Neda are on crazy sale, I think it's finally time to grow up & make it happen. Right?

What are you gonna grab friends?

Come on, you know you want to virtual shop with me!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #52: black + white and...

The theme this week for FF was just all about black & white- what could be easier?

Let me be clear- with the chilly weather here in Wisconsin, there's no way on earth I could wear this outfit for the next 5 months or so, but a girl can dream, right?

the BEST black skinnies

the darkest studs you'll find

dotted and delightful blouse

sleek black Marc ring

the shiniest flats

That's all I've got for you today folks. Black and white and simple.

Plans for the weekend my friends?

I'll be huddling under as many blankets as possible watching it snow. Be jealous.

xo, lp

WHO KNEW RED LIPS WOULD CAUSE SUCH A COMMOTION!

I wish I had something cool to tell you right off the bat this week, but my brain is totally frozen from the single digit temperatures. Saturday it was 42 degrees, Sunday it was 7. BOO MIDWEST.  

Today has a high of 5 degrees. ::Shiver:: 

Per usual on Mondays, I have a few things to share with you from the past week- and I have some good ones for you this time around!

Best thing of the week...the image below.

If you've been following this blog for a while (or follow me on Instagram or Twitter) you know I post quite a lot of #ootd shots. Well the other day at work I get a text from Michael with this image in it.

 I. Could. Not. Stop. Laughing.

Yup, that's my man, half mocking me, half showing the world his workday best. Both valid and awesome.

(find more lovely #ootds HERE, maybe more of Michael someday...)

Best blog happenin' of last week....getting back to sharing DIYs. 

Loved the response from you all on the blog/Instagram/twitter about this paintchip DIY! Now I'm tempted to do more in other colors...and put them everywhere. Oh, and for those of you asking -- in the other images with the weird gold urchin- it's Nate Berkus and you can buy it here. 

Best event of the week...double date night.

I posted this picture on Instagram before we went out for dinner with our friends Emily and Ben...and when I next checked my phone I saw all the lovely comments. Geez! You all sure know how to make a girl blush. I guess I'll need to start wearing lipstick more often. Sassy.

Oh- the necklaces:

Circle diamond cutout: Gorjana from ShopBop- by far my most worn and loved necklace.

"L" Initial Neckalce: Christmas gift from Michael's stylish sister Kelly. From Etsy Shop Olive Yew.

Best find of the week...maybe.

Has anyone ordered the Kate Spade NY Things We Love book yet? In theory it sounds like the perfect little ladylike coffee table book (sorry Michael) - but I haven't heard anything about it yet! I thought it could be a great V-day gift to give to girlfriends, and it's on sale here...but I'm looking for backup, people! 

(get it on sale HERE!)

Best meal...and the simplest.

Tomorrow I'll be sharing a recipe for the easiest, most delicious pepper parmesean pasta. I'm getting hungry thinking about it. Gah.

Alright, that wraps up last week for me.

How are you all doing? Anyone else having freezing cold weather?

...oh, and let me know about the Kate Spade book. Please!

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #51: Outfit Crush

TGIF.

No, but really.

How is it that this week felt like two? Beyond ready for the weekend, folks.

---

This week for #FF {av} pulled out the classic outfit crush card, and it was not hard at all to pick a look I'm loving!

LC can layer like the best of them, and I'm loving the simple stripes layered with a little denim and a chunky scarf:

I'm not the biggest jean jacket wearer, so I went with this crazy affordable and awesome denim button up from Target. Matched with the softest black skinnies and a chunky heathered scarf, I think this could be my winter uniform. 

Clearly I had to incorporate stripes in there somewhere, and this Kate Spade bag is completely the perfect way to do so. Rather than copy LC's dark nails, I thought this shade of NARS lipstick would be a good alternative! For the finishing touch, these sweet little studs add just a little bit of sparkle!

So there you have it, outfit recreation at its finest!

What are your plans for the weekend, friends?

I'll be bundling up for the 4 degree weather we're expecting next week. Gah.

xo, lp

HOLIDAY MOOLA? (new year's finest)

Oh heyyyyyyyyyy.

Have you guys been around the blog world lately? I sure have not been. Oops.

I can't even blame being away, I've been back at work since the day after Christmas, but I've been too lazy to post. That's the truth, folks. 

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Now, I am guessing a few of you out there got some gift cards or good old fashioned cash for a holiday gift, right? Sure you did. Here are a few fun ideas for what to do with that moola- whether you decide to get a few small gifts & save the rest...or just go right ahead and splurge! For FF this week I thought it might be fun to do New Year's finest accessories rather than an outfit! Here are my picks:

SAVE:

1. These ASOS mittens are straight up adorable, and for $12, you can wave 'em at everyone you know.

2. For me, the washi tape will never say die. I am obsessed with these Madewell ones, and for a measly $4 a pop, you can grab a handful of them without making a dent in your Christmas cash.

3. Everyone loves gold polka dots right now, and what better way to display them..but with  a $17 bangle?

4. Everyone knows the Target+Neiman Marcus collaboration failed. BUT that just means the best thing from the collection, these Marc Jacobs pouches, are now under $35. YEAH. So for you name brand ladies on a budget, scoop one of these up stat!

5. How hilarious is this old school phone handset? Michael got one of these for xmas and it rocks.

SPLURGE:

1. GAH. New Kate Spade watches kill me. Go navy for class and pink for spunk.

2. These Brandy Pham for BaubleBar rings are perfect for stacking or bright enough to make a statement on their own, and at $68, they're not toooo much of a splurge!

3. J.crew. Green. Bag. Must. Hug.

4. Now why is a $24 item in the splurge section? Because for me $24 is a ridiculous amount to pay for lipstick...sorry folks. However with a little extra holiday cash, I think this perfect NARS color be a little more justifiable.

5. Oh Kate Spade idiom necklace, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Tons of colors, $58. PLUS they're reversible with a witty Kate Spade phrase on the back!

What would you grab from each of these groups?

Washi tape and Kate Spade Idiom necklace for me, please.

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #48: Disco ball NYE

NYE is coming up in a few weeks, and I think it's pretty well known that it is one of the few nights a year it's acceptable to wear as many sequins as you dang well please.

I figure if you're going the glittery route- you might as well go all out and own it...right?

Thus, I bring you the dress that may just make you look like the prettiest disco ball you've ever seen:

This dress from TopShop is completely NYE appropriate. Some may see it as a little tacky- but I just think it's perfect for the occasion. The surprise low back is sure to make you be remembered! It's over 50% off right now too...just sayin'.... 

As for the earrings, these Kate Spade small square studs come in a color for every personality. If you're trying to stand out even more- grab the neon pink or purple pair...or if you're attempting to tone it down, grab the burgundy or royal blue.

Which color would you pair with this sparkly dress?

I'd have to go neon pink. Go big or go home, folks. 

xo, lp

WEEKEND UNDER A HEATED BLANKET.

If the weather in the Midwest could be sunny fall weather, I would be happy forever. 

I hope you all did something useful with your extra hour of the morning on Sunday. I'd be lying if I said I did...I laid in bed under a heated blanket. And it was awesome. So there. 

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Bright spot of last week:

j.crew giraffe necklace (similar)  //  F21 coral sweater (similar)

I've begun wearing vests a lot. I hope my coworkers don't notice. Crap. 

f21 amour necklace ($5!) // olive down vest (similar here) // boatneck top (similar here)

At the end of my carpool last week this was my view:

 (find me on instagram here)

Tomorrow I'll be sharing the recipe for my Orange Meltaways. Get. Ready.

I don't have an iPhone (huge gasp from the crowd in disgust), but I want to buy one JUST so I can get this phone case:

 Pretty sure it's the best and most affordable Kate Spade thing out there. Yup. Will someone please get it and take pictures using it so I can live vicariously through you?!

What'd you do this weekend friends?

Please tell me you bought that phone case. Help a girl out.

xo, lp

HI 5

Happy Monday, friends.

I don't know what the weather was like in your area, but it was picture perfect here. The Midwest can't seem to decide if it wants to be fall or winter, and this weekend it decided to switch back to 60s and sunny. Amazing, I tell you.

We celebrated one friend's birthday, and said goodbye to another moving to DC. For all you pretty DC bloggers, your city just gained one very handsome man- you're welcome!

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Tuesday night Michael and I went to our favorite place for dinner... who says date night has to be on Friday, right? Having a slow, relaxing dinner makes you forget it's the work week, doesn't it?

(if you're ever in Madison, eat here!)

I had grand plans for a bunch of little pumpkins I bought, but this is all my laziness would allow:

(more on themWednesday)

Per usual, a few #ootd shots:

1. red pants here and necklace here

2. polka dots: similar here and here  

3. maroon sweater: similar here and gold scarf: similar here

4. necklace: spikethepunch

 Tomorrow I'll be sharing this recipe:

(so. so. good.)

Finally, how awesome (and nerdy) and perfect are these Kate Spade mittens!?! Need these, I think...

seriously!

How was your weekend friends?

Now on a serious note...what's your take on the Hi-5 mittens? Lame? Awesome? Necessary?

xo, lp

Friday's Fancies #39: Outfit Crush

It's that once a season time: Outfit Crush time. 

You know how this goes.

Shall we?

 I saw this outfit on happily grey and thought it'd be perfect for an outfit inspiration this time around. 

Here's the breakdown:

Let's start out with the most simple part of this outfit: the earrings. I wear basic studs every day. I'd rather have other fun accessories steal the spotlight, and these Michael Kors studs are exactly perfect. (and surprisingly cheap for MK. nice.)

I'm pretty sure this 1969 Western Dress from Gap is the perfect summer to fall piece. Besides the fact that the dark denim look goes with basically any color accessory, it's under $70. Oh yes please.

This coral scarf from ModCloth is light and lovely and will go perfectly with that dang cute dress mentioned above.

I. Need. This. Wallet. Please. My birthday is like....5 months away. Buy this Kate Spade beauty for me now please? Early gift?

Let's continue with the Kate Spade train and take a moment to enjoy this stunning watch, okay?

I'm pretty sure this tote from Gap can hold anything and everything. Including that wallet. Just saying. 

What piece would you steal from this outfit?

I think I've made my choice pretty clear...

xo, lp

pssssssssssssst: did you enter the HibiscusDays Jewelry giveaway??? Do so here!

Kate Spade Inspired DIY Jewelry Tray

I love Kate Spade. The flawless jewelry, the classic handbags, the stunning shoes- I love it all. 

Unfortunately... my budget doesn't love Kate Spade. Wop-wop. 

Thus, I made this:

I love the Ticker Tape Tidbit china, and thought a single plate would be fun as a jewelry dish. Although I have no doubt it's worth every penny- each plate comes up to $50. Again: Wop-wop. 

Someday when I make my millions or win the lottery I'll buy one of everything online-mark my words!

Until then, I'll have to DIY what I can.

Kate Spade Ticker Tape Tidbit China

I stopped by a local thrift store and picked up this glass tray for a whopping $3:

 After a good sanding and a couple layers of white acrylic paint I got everything I needed ready:

- Foam Brush -    -Painter's Tape-    -Scissors-     -Martha Stewart Glitter (yellow barite & copper)-  

-Index Card-     -Metallic Acrylic Paint ( Deco Art Splendid Gold)-      -Mod Podge-

Next I cut a small hole in the index card, reinforcing the card with some painters tape:

Slowly but surely I added gold dot after gold dot, stopping every 10 or so to allow time for them to dry without smearing. The best part about the Kate Spade design is that there are overlapping dots- so anytime I messed up I simply let it dry & painted another dot covering up my mistake! 

 Continual dot adding....

 A little bit of glitter just for good measure & some Mod Podge to seal it all off!

 The finished product!

 Of course, the best part was adding a little bit of my jewelry- just a few of my favorite gold pieces:

 Jewelry:

Cobalt Studs: Fornash

Red Studs: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Gold Leaf earrings: Thrifted (for $1!)

Watches & Bracelet: Charming Charlie

Tiny Gold Locket: c/o Hibiscusdays Jewelry

Gold Circle Diamond Necklace: Gorjana (c/o Shopbop)

I am THRILLED with how it turned out. It's shiny and glittery and completely wonderful. 

It may not be real Kate Spade, but I sure do love it. 

Would you keep your jewelry favorites on this DIY tray?

If not, what's your go-to jewelry storage?

xo, lp

Pssst: I know was all people could talk about a little while ago..but how perfect are Kate Spade watches?  Le Sigh.