How I Accidentally Bought a Fake Gucci Soho Bag!

As you may be able to tell from the title of this post, this is going to be the story of how I accidentally purchased a fake bag. Yes, it was horrible, but at the same time I want to share my story in hopes that it will help out a fellow purse lover!!

For the past 2 months I have been on the hunt for a Gucci Disco Soho handbag. I was obsessed!! I decided to take the plunge and to purchase on off of eBay. I looked for several weeks to find one that was in the color I wanted (Red), in excellent condition and for a reasonable price. 

The bag, isn't it lovely?

So finally, I thought I had found the one. This handbag was exactly what I wanted so I went for it! It was an auction so I entered the amount I was willing to spend, and to my astonishment I won the auction for a great deal less than the max I willing to spend on it! Clue #1- If the deal is too good to be true, it probably is. I won the handbag for a mere $530. Now that is a lot of money I know, but this handbag retails for $895 plus tax! I thought I had simply lucked out, so I happily paid the money and waited for my bag to arrive.

So the bag arrived, fairly quickly. Since I had purchased it on eBay I immediately inspected it of course. But I'm not going to lie, I thought it was authentic!! The leather smelled great, and it felt even better! The zipper worked well. I thought it was a winner. However, I knew this was not enough to prove its authenticity so I did more research, and that is when I discovered it was not real. 

With further inspection, the tag that says "Gucci made in italy" was really faint and fairly hard to read. It was almost non existent (you can see what I mean with the picture I took below)! When you look at the real deal, it is very clear to read and more imprinted, if that's the right word.

Another clue was the inside tag. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get a picture of this tag on the fake handbag but I do clearly remember how it looked like. Hopefully, I can paint a clear picture of it! There is a black tag, I believe its located on the left side, and on side said Gucci made in italy and the other side said 100% Cotone. That is WRONG.  Below I have a picture of what the tag should look like! As you can see the text wraps around the front and back! It has some numbers below and that is it!

Lastly, and really the most obvious flaw in my opinion, it the hardware above the tassels. On the fake I received. You can really see the differences in the hardware from the pictures I took and the ones I got from the Niemam Marcus website. First of all the bumps (not sure if that is the right term but let's go with it) stick out just a tiny bit too much as compared to the real ones. Secondly, on the fake there were only three of this bumps in total! While I am not sure how many bumps there should be, there should definitely be more than just 3!

So that is pretty much how I knew the handbag I received was not authentic! I was lucky enough to have brought from a seller who refunded me all of my money back, so all in all, this was a good learning experience! I really, really hope this will be helpful to those of you looking to buy this hand off of eBay, or anywhere else for that matter! Let me know if you have any question I would be happy to help!

XOXO,

D

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Favorite Fall Nail Polishes

I have to say that I am beyond excited that fall is here! It's seriously the best season of all. In order to celebrate it's arrival I wanted to share my top 5 favorite fall nail polishes. Check them out below!

1. Essie Brownie Points: This is a great red-brown color, It really reminds

me of the color some leaves turn during this wonderful season. I love it!

2. Revlon Emerald City Matte: I just adore this beautiful emerald green color. The 

color is gorgeous and it will also work for all the winter holidays that are fast approaching. 

Although I'm not a fan of matte nail polishes, its a simple fix with high gloss top coat.

3. Sally Hansen Hard-as-Nails Cement: This polish definitely has earned a spot in my 

top favorite polishes of all time! Really, it's that good! I simply love this grey color, 

4. Wet n' Wild Burgundy Frost: I simply adore this color for fall nights out and about.

It has a sparkly nature to it, but the dark burgundy color makes it perfect for fall.

 5. Revlon Endless Possibilities: This color is a great fall nude. I love it. Its not to pink and just
makes your nails look great!

What are your favorite fall nail polishes? I'd love to know!

XOXO,

D

Comfy and Cute Sleepwear

With school starting for most people (I start Monday!) I figured instead of the usual back-to-schools post, I would do one on sleepwear! Yes, pajamas. The following list is of some cute and adorable sets that are currently available!

First up there is this adorable set, that I think would be great for a sleepover! It looks comfortable but chic at the same time! (Get it at Asos)

Forever 21 has so many cute sets starting at $10!! You won't find a better deal than that!

As a fan of cats, I think this pajama set is puurfect! (Here.)

also another cute one. (Here.)

and is you want to have a sleepover with a significant other but still want to be comfortable then

the following definitely fits the bill. (Here.) It's a romper!

Until Next Time!

XOXO,

D

Mini Outlet Haul

So I went to Saks Off Fifth 2 days ago and was thrilled to see that they had an amazing sale. Everything in the clearance rack was Buy 1 Get 2 Free!! That's right 2! Unfortunately when I went to the store most of the racks had been picked through. I got 2 things and my boyfriend found a shirt for himself so we still had use of the sale. I also hit up another store favorite Nordstrom Rack! Here's what I got:

I love the white lace details on this dress! (Get it here)

This is something I wanted since I first saw it at Saks months ago, but I 

didn't want to shell out the $45 that is costs.

Needless to say, I was beyond thrilled that it was part of the sale.

 I plan on using it for groceries or even as a weekend bag.(Similar)

This Rebecca Minkoff MAB makeup case was something I was extremely

 thrilled to find included in the sale. It is super adorable and I love that the inside

 is a plastic material instead of fabric. I have a bad habit of just throwing my 

makeup around, but now I don't have to worry about the inside getting dirty.

On another note, my classes start in 2 weeks! Wow, where has my summer gone? While, I am dreading my harder course list, I cannot wait to start wearing cute fall outfits! And of course, I can't wait to share them with you!

XOXO,

D

Get the Bag for Less!

Like many ladies I love me a beautiful designer bag! Who doesn't right? But also like many ladies, I simply cannot afford a $2000 handbag. Sorry, I'm just a broke college student. :(  However, I have managed to conjure up a list of some more affordable handbags that seem to resemble some of today's very popular styles. While these bags are significantly less expensive, they dont comprise on quality. Take a look!

1. The classic quilted wallet on a chain

Let's begin with what I believe is the most drool-worthy crossbody of all! 

Of course its the Chanel Quilted WOC. While I hope to own this precious baby one day, 

I recently found a great alternative at Saks Off Fifth (the Saks outlet). It comes in different colors

including mint!

 

And with a price that of only $105, you really can't go wrong! Even the inside layout resembles Chanel's WOC. Get it here! 

2.The Celine Trapeze

If you are looking to drop some serious cash right now, then this is the handbag to get!

From celebrities to fashion bloggers, this handbag has definitely been seen on the on arms

of the most noteworthy people. 

While this Zac Zac Posen handbag comes in a larger size, I love the small size shown 

above. Get the same look as the Celine but for a much more reasonable price of only $224 (Here).

3. Givenchy Antigona 

Lastly, we have this beautiful Givenchy classic. Its iconic shape may make it hard

to find something that even faintly resembles this handbag, but I think I found a good contender.

This handbag by Rebecca Minkoff definitely gives off that Antigona vibe! The shape is extremely

reminiscent of its more expensive counterpart. With price starting at $350, there is no reason why you should go check it out! (Here).

Check back tomorrow for another post!!

XOXO, 

D

New Home Decor!

So I recently went to a nearby TJ Maxx, Burlington and Pier 1 Imports. I didn't pick up many items but I did want to share with some items I got for my bookcase!

This cute box! It is just adorable and very detailed. I got it to store some extra photos. Besides the fact that it is just super cute, I got this box because it is quite inexpensive. I found it at Burlington for only $3. Burlington had a ton of these boxes, all with different designs. I know there are other places that sell these boxes but they are way too overpriced, I mean it's only a cardboard box after all.

This vase was found in the clearance section at Marshall's. It was under 5 dollars and love the speckled mirrored finish. Very chic touch to the white fake flowers I'm going to keep in here! 

Another thing I got from Marshall's was this kaleidoscope. I thought is would make a nice piece on my bookshelf standing up or laid down. Plus, its also fun! Reminds me of my childhood. I tried to take a picture of the inside for you guys! 

Next, I have this Bath and Body Works candle holder. I mean is has a flower on the top! How could I possibly resist?

This beautiful mug (Its too big to be a teacup!) is something I got at Pier 1 just yesterday! I loved the colors on it and it's just too pretty! The Pier 1 by my apartment is closing and they had a ton of sales. I got this little guy for only 2 dollars! Score!

Last, I wanted to share this gorgeous frame I got from TJ Maxx. This frame has the most beautiful border I have ever seen! Plus, its huge! It can easily hold an 8 by 10 picture. It was a steal for under $10. I totally recommend checking out TJ Maxx or Marshall's for frames! They are always unique and inexpensive.

Well, that's all for today!

XOXO

D

Wal-Mart Candles?

I know that everyone and their mother raves about the Bath and Body Works candles! While I do admit I like them just as much as the next girl, I do believe they are a bit overpriced for your average candle. I love buying my candles from... Wal-Mart! Trust me, if you want amazing-smelling, inexpensive candles then you will want to keep reading!

 I was running a bit low on candles yesterday so I decided to make a run to Wal-Mart and these 3 were the ones I decided to pick up! Peach & Mango, Cranberry Mandarin and Caribbean Retreat. My favorite has to be the Cranberry Mandarin scent, this is my second time getting it. They all smell sooo good! I have to admit, I'm obsessed. As for the price? You won't believe it! The two candles at the end are a dollar each and the middle one was only $2! They are a little small, but you can choose to pick up the bigger ones comparable to the Bath and Body Works ones for less than $5! You really can't lose!

This is a candle I got from Big Lots recently, and I just love that it's in a mason jar! So cute!!

XOXO

D

OOTD: Quilted pleather skirt with a peplum top

Happy Thursday! Today was a very nice, warm day so I pulled out my adorable pleather quilted skirt that I got from Marshalls for less than $20! I paired it with my J.Crew peplum tee and a beautiful statement necklace. You know, I am just in love with the way peplum tees look with full skirts. It's very girly indeed and so so adorable. I originally got the idea from Wendy's Lookbook, and hey if Wendy is doing it, so am I! 

 Shirt- J.Crew(Similar)

Necklace- J.Crew(Similar)

Skirt- Marshall's(Similar)

Nude Flats- Target (Here)

XOXO,

D

What To Pack For A Cruise

A few months ago I went on my first cruise trip, and I have to say it was amazing! The ship was huge and I had a great time exploring it and going to all the shows the crew members put on. While I had a great time, I wasn't quite sure what I should pack for the occasion. I mean, normally when I travel I first look up the weather. But how does one look up what the weather will be like in the middle of the Pacific Ocean? I've compiled a list of a few things you should not forget while on a cruise:

• Bathing Suits- This is just a given. There are multiple pools and hot tubs on the ship and you should make use of them! The ship I was on even had an indoor pool, just in case the weather was not suitable for an outdoor pool.
• Cover Up- To go along with your swim suit, you might want to take something you can quickly throw over it. There can be quite a bit of walking from the pools to your room so having some clothes on would probably be best.
• Sweaters- I know first I'm telling you to take a bikini and now a sweater. But trust me, it can get very chilly on deck, even during the day. On my trip (which was in the beginning of November from Cali to Mexico mind you) there were many activities to do deck in the evening. It was especially windy and cold in the evening so a sweater is a must!
• A Dress- On my particular cruise the dining was especially nice. People got dressed up for dinner, and most times there is a dress code to eat at certain locations. If you think you can get away with being in a bathing suit all day, you are in for a surprise! Oh, and there clubs on the ship as well that you might want to check out. Who knows?
• Toiletry Bag- This is a must if you are going on a trip longer than 3 days. You should get one that can be hung up in the closet such as one like this. It doesn't even have to be that fancy but it'll be nice to have all your things in one easy to find spot!
• A Wristlet- While you are on board, you really don't need to be carrying around a purse with all your belongings. Instead a handy wristlet should suffice. This one is very similar to the one I took, and that was all I needed. You see the ship gives you a card in the beginning and that is how you pay for everything and it's also your room key. I would make sure you keep your I.D on you as well just in case. And as far as a phone. Well I kept mine off the entire trip! It was useless to me. Instead take your camera and you are good to go! Which brings me to my next point....
• A Camera- You need to document your special trip! There are lots of things to talk pictures of so I would say you should have your camera on you at all times!! 

Until next time! XOXO

Must Have Handbags!

I decided to try something new today:) I wanted to compose a wish-list of the handbags I am currently eyeing! In case you haven't noticed I am obsessed with purses! If I were to inherit a small fortune I would put it all towards these beauties.

As you can see, all of these handbags would be great for the upcoming spring season. The first on my wish-list is this beautiful Saint Laurent Paris chain bag. One thing I really like about it is its small size. Although that is normally a down side for most people, I like when a handbag forces me to choose only my absolute essentials. I adore this bag and have been stalking it for about 2 months now. I think I just might go for it! What do you all think?

Directly underneath that bag is a Michael Kors handbag is is strangely reminiscent of a Prada one. However at a much more affordable price! I love the color, its so happy and would be perfect for spring. Another plus? It also comes in white!

The handbag right in the center is of course a Chanel. Need I say more? This is the square mini flap and will be on my wish-list until the day I acquire it. Sigh. If only I wasn't a broke college student...One day.

Top right corner is another expensive piece from Celine. This is the micro luggage tote bag that everyone is currently going crazy for. I think this vibrant blue however is especially intoxicating.

And last but not least is a Salvatore Ferragamo cutie. This handbag just seems like it would be super practical for going out on a date or with friends. I mean it has a bow!

What is on you handbag wish-list?

What Fits In My Mini Pashli

Today, I wanted to share what fits inside my 3.1 Phillip Lim Mini Pashli. Although it is a small handbag, it can surprisingly fit quite a bit of stuff! For anyone who is considering purchasing this bag, you might want to read on and see if it can suit your needs.

This is the handbag in question. It's in the color ink, and I have had it for 

several months now and it still looks new!

This is basically everything I need!

Keys, sunglasses and a reusable shopping bag.

Card Case from Michael Kors

This is definitely something I would recommend 

if you use small handbags a lot, saves so much space!!

Pressed Powder and Blush/Bronzer Duo

And of course, my phone and compact!

Not too bad for such a small purse right? And trust me, it can fit more! This is just how I have it at the moment. Leave any questions in the comments and I will glady answer. Until next time!