cross my heart

At Christmastime last year I had spotted the Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Bag on a mannequin as I walked through Barneys & passed on the info on a card to my husband--lucky for me that he actually went out and bought if for me because they quickly sold out everywhere.  I especially loved the two gold metal birds that embellished the front of the bag--it is has a great downtown feel to it and I have used it often.  Although it can be used as a crossover back with its long strap, it was always a bit heavy for me to be worn in that manner, even without the 300 hundred pounds of things I carry around for some unknown reason.  A couple of my friends bought the Marc Jacobs Pouchette bag--the same as mine but in a mini version with a single gold bird and much lighter, and I still have total bag envy.
I never made the leap to buy the smaller bag, but have been looking ever since for a cross body bag that was small enough to be comfortable, yet could fit my things that I need as I dash around.  There are a zillion out there, so narrowing down choices by color, style, and price can help.  When I spotted the Love Dove Pouchette (again, fitting for a Valentine, no?) at Neimans I fell in love with the sassy tomato color and embossed patent leather/calfskin combo.  It has a hint of Louis Vuitton to me, which is not surprising considering Marc Jacobs' work at the French design house.  I also love the pop of color against my dark coat and being hands free--a nice break from toting my giant bags everywhere.  Speaking of Valentines (again), this particular blog seems to be one to Mr. Jacobs, but with good reason--he continues to thrill me with his beautiful designs and unique take on fashion.
As for the messenger bag trend, give it a try with either a large bag so you can still carry all your gadgets with you (god forbid we not have them at all times!) or you can leave it all behind with the sleek look of a small cross body bag.  Either way, its a great way to update your day to day look.  Happy Friday.