Studs & Stones Forever

As if I needed more to add to my growing studs & stones collection mentioned here and here, the good people at ebags have made Sam Edelman all the more affordable with their amazing deals and coupons. Thank you, ebags!

I first purchased the Holmby clutch after seeing it on sale and getting some coupons. I did some selling on eBay, and was able to pay with Paypal (another reason I love ebags). I love this clutch and it comes in more colors ... so I'm thinking ... multiples? The best part about this clutch is that it is a part of the Lord & Taylor accessory wall on Project Runway, so I have been seeing it walk down the runway the past couple of weeks! The crossbody bag is called Bryn and I got it in citron. I love yellow, but this one comes in additional colors as well.

Above, I am also sporting my ZigiNY Nevada wedges. It seems many other brands and designers are embracing the stud trend. So for fall, you may want to add a little edge to your outfit by picking up something studded or doing it yourself. I have noticed items at H&M, Zara, Steve Madden, Nordstrom & Kohl's selling studly pieces.

For me, my attraction to these items kind of throws me. I mean, I love a good rhinestone, but spikes have never really been my thing. I don't like it purely because it is trending. I think it has to do with the fact that for me, these accessories represent a mix of hard and soft; danger and beauty. If these items were all spikes I would stay away. But the stones mixed in sell me. We all have a few sides to us. I feel like lately I have been trying to stay strong, purely to cover up the softer parts of me that have been hurting a bit. Perhaps if we keep hitting on hard times, those gems will be revealed. Life can be rocky, but it can also be hopeful. I have seen many a shining example to prove it.

I hope this weekend finds you staying strong as well ... with a little shopping thrown in.