spring into snake & python

Today I am bringing you the best of the best…python. I always opt for python over leopard because I think it is so modern and edgy, and easy to incorporate into your more classic pieces. Whether you prefer a statement piece or an elevated basic, I think you will love these python picks. It really just takes one python piece to edge up any look. And whether you choose to incorporate it through a killer heel, a great handbag, or a piece of ready-to-wear, I think it will be an investment that you will be pulling out of your closet season after season.

Aside from the Givenchy Antigona, these stunning python and croc effect bags and accessories are from Gigi New York, a visionary handbag brand with surprisingly attainable prices. The brand’s concept arose from the artistry of book design, which Gigi applied to the shape, color, and a style of handbag that is both refreshing and timeless.

These bags will give any outfit a little extra fashion oomph. Right on trend, the python bags have the look of an exotic handbag for a fraction of the price. And what an amazing accent to your little black (or beige…or pink) dress.

Looking for a statement to add to a simple black outfit? I can’t think of a more eye-catching option than this Balenciaga blue python vest. The past year, I invested in outerwear, specifically jackets, more than anything else. I just couldn't resist sharing this statement piece. It will bring any basic black dress or jeans to life. I actually get more wear out of my leather vest than my leather jackets, because the vest works year round, even when the temperature rises.

This is a perfect example of high end ready-to-wear at an amazing price, because it is pre-loved. Sadly the python vest doesn’t ship to the U.S. One day, I would love to have some Aquazzara heels in my shoe closet, and think these are are an amazing pop of sapphire for summer.

And when you have a statement outfit, such as these yellow stunners from Self Portrait, a white python bag is so chic and perfect for spring/summer. This Billie Crossbody in white (on the far left) is my favorite style from Gigi New York, because you can wear it casual or dress it up for the evening. And the strap is detachable, making the handbag versatile.

I love statement snakeskin and python accessories & outerwear, but if you’re like me and only want a capsule handbag collection, I recommend starting simple first with a taupe, ivory, or blush handbag in a croc-like texture. I naturally gravitate towards the trendy python print turquoise bags shown above. They could be a fun accent if you own a handful of black and blue pieces in your closet. Happy shopping as you add a bit of python into your spring wardrobe:)

Black Friday: Reiss

I am ecstatic to share my Black Friday suggestions with you. I know that I am rushing the year along, but I truly think that planning ahead and creating a wishlist now, will help you shop consciously and allow you to avoid regret purchases this Black Friday. My intent for this series of blog posts about Black Friday, is that you are able to scoop up truly special items that you value and will love for years, rather than items you won’t wear or will get rid of within 6 months time.

I have already written a post about how to shop smart during Black Friday time, but in this post we are going to dive into my picks and future purchases. I always recommend quality above quantity, and I am laser-focused on Reiss this Black Friday. Because I have done intense closet decluttering recently, I only want to bring in new pieces that are here to stay.

Here are a few photos of a Reiss coat I bought last year at 50%, so you can see the quality for yourself. Though it is a plaid, the ivory and grey colorway make it wearable and classic.

Reiss is currently offering 50% off seasonal styles. Some dresses go for $300-500 + and their amazing wool coats often hit the $600-$900 mark. I can honestly say that each piece I have from Reiss is classic, classy and timeless. So, while I cringe at buying a wool coat for $700, getting a timeless coat for $350 is easier to chew on.

Reiss often have an outlet section on their site, and if they offer an additional 15%, you can snag some stunning pieces at a fraction of the price. Here are my Reiss favorites that I have my eye on…

Anders coat-Longline Overcoat with Zip Detail in grey melange $745

Originally I was on the hunt for a classic camel coat, but while looking in my closet, I realized a grey coat would be just as fitting. This light grey would work with blush colors, white, and black. The large lapels and zip details give it a bit more edge than many classic coats I’ve seen. It is lined and the long silhouette will lengthen the body, which is ideal if you’re petite like me.

Mason coat-Wool Blend Longline Coat in berry $645

I have a deep love for the color maroon. This oxblood shade is winter-appropriate and a little sexy. It also would blend beautifully with my wardobe, as I have several oxblood pieces. For me, maroon is a classic color. This coat offers the notched collar instead of traditional lapels, which may be a nice update if you already have several traditional wool coats in your closet. This coat is also available in navy.

Dala coat-Double Breasted Animal Print Coat in multi $545

This coat is a bit more fun and playful. Yet, if you have a capsule wardobe of black pieces like me, I think this is a way to add life to an all-black outfit. It also makes dressing for winter super easy. Throw on black denim, a black sweater, black boots, and then top it all off with this fabulous print Reiss coat.

If you lack a high quality wool winter coat, I would suggest buying one of the first two coats mentioned above, before anything else. When Jack Frost finally comes out, we all need that classic go-to coat to keep us warm. Obviously the grey and oxblood suggestions would be more versatile. The animal print coat really only is versatile if you wear black on a regular basis. It also is composed of 41% acryclic and 21% polyster, while the grey and maroon coat are predominantly wool. Your style and what you currently own may dictate your choice here. In case you already have the perfect classic coat, I have included other outerwear options below.

Lexington coat-Faux Fur Coat in grey $545

I adore this fur jacket. While I think you can find more affordable fur jackets like this, I really do think the fit and fur itself will be much nicer from Reiss. But, if you’re like me and would restrict yourself to one or two coats, you could pass on this. It’s just so pretty though…

Amalia boots-Suede Heeled Ankle Boots in charcoal grey $495

I am a lover of this deep charcoal color. It’s a bit softer than black, but still is a dark, wearable neutral. These have a bit of a heel…but if you want to give yourself a height boost, and turn to boots rather than heels, I think this pair is a great option. Can you imagine these boots with the matching suede jacket? They would instantly pull an outfit together. To me, this is the definition of modern classics.

Allie Jacket-Suede Biker Jacket in charocal $620

Tori jacket-Herringbone Tailored Blazer in monochrome $540

I had to throw in a workwear piece. With the slim, tailored cut and the herringbone design, it’s not your average blazer. I have a pair of charcoal herringbone pants, and I can’t help thinkling what a power combo the two would make. This looks excpetional with plain black trousers and would look equally amazing with a distressed pair of denim. If you work in a smart casual environment, this make be the outerwear piece for you. Now for knitwear, in a winterland of ivory and light greys…

Flo knit-Textured V-Neck Jumper in grey $295

These knits and sweaters are investment pieces. Which is why I will wait for a sale. The thick knit and superb quality makes these the sweaters that I would reach for when the bitter cold hits. I don’t own any knitwear from Reiss, but to me, these look designer. They are definitely classics that I would reach for each fall and winter.

Cassie knit-Zip Detail Roll Neck Jumper in grey $330

Mila heels-Leather Lace Up Heeled Shoes in truffle $370

This is a great footwear option for fall that will work with nearly all your outfits. The croc effect and high heel make them look modern, and the lace-up detail is very flattering. My most worn pair of shoes are lace-up suede block heels, so I think these would be a go-to shoe.

April knit-Textured Knitted Midi Dress in grey $320

Now for a sweater dress. I only own 2 sweater dresses, but this light textured grey is gorgeous and looks very figure-flattering, with the leg slit and waist belt. The grey is so light it looks ivory, so you could style this dress with black boots and accessories, or keep it more feminine with blush or nude footwear.

While this is my Reiss Black Friday edit, I realize that there are still a lot of pieces here to choose from. In complete disclosure, if you are struggling with what to purchase from Reiss, I would suggest passing on this sweater dress. It is honestly one of the most flattering, versatile, and classic sweater dresses I think that I have ever seen. BUT…this garment is 64% acrylic, 25% polyster, and 8% linen. So if you are choosing between this pretty sweater dress and one of the wool coats shown above, go with the wool coat.

Cresida boots-Leather Knee High Boots in black $660

The gorgous knee high boots are composed of 100% leather and the lining is also 100% leather. The pointed toe and stiletto heel make them look sleek and polished, and give any dress or skirt an instant edge. They also come in military green, claret, and brown (though the brown is currently out of stock.)

Lotte Leather Culottes in black $660

I have been on the hunt for the perfect pair of leather trousers, and think these are a modern, more relaxed take on the classic piece. It also looks very edgy with a pair of knee-high boots. The advantage to leather culottes instead of leather leggings or trousers, is that you can wear them from fall to winter, by simply opting for high knee boots and a sweater, as it gets colder.

Ottolie jacket-Cross Stitch Leather Bomber Jacket in black $745

Such a fun, edgy look, in a different style than anything in my closet. The quilted element makes it look even more high-end, but it has a softer look than the typical biker jacket. Is anyone else getting Chanel vibes?

Wynee jacket-Leather Belted Jacket in tan $1,120

This tan/nude belted leather jacket is a softer, modern take on the classic leather jacket. I think if you are on the hunt for a new leather jacket, but want one you can also transition to the office, this is perfect. How gorgeous would this jacket look with an ivory sweater and beige trousers? It would look equally stunning with a lace cami and jeans. This jackets says, “I’m polished and put together, but also a bit edgy.” And while some leather jackets can look boxy, the matching belt enhances a femine silhouette.

Bethann skirt-Snake Printed Leather Mini Skirt in brown $540

Annie skirt-Snake Printed Leather Midi Skirt in taupe $620

This gorgeous mid-tone brown snake effect skirt is the updated version from Reiss’s snake skirt from last year (which I own and that completely sold out.) They offer it in the mini and midi style. The midi style would be a great, edgy look for a work-appropriate outfit. However, the mini skirt is more my style. This brown snake skirt with brown knee-high boots would be a stunning combo. I love my grey snake skirt so much that I want this chocolate version as well…

Hope this gives you some inspiration and direction for Black Friday! I expect that Reiss will be where I invest the most this year. What items are you interested in?