2017 by the numbers

happy new year friends! 

I'm currently in bed getting all the puppy cuddles, while I patiently await for husband to wake up before we head out to brunch. In the meantime, I can't help but to think back and reflect on 2017 and I'm missing it already. So even though I've already said a proper goodbye with this full year review and a video,  I spent a few minutes this morning making this fun list below---just for the heck of it.  

Review: Madewell Zip Transport Tote

Have you ever had the perfect bag? It's the one you reach for more than anything else you own. It doesn't matter if you've had it for 3 days or 3 years, the texture and color are just as vibrant as the day you brought it home. And you feel invincible with it. That's the Madewell Zip Transport Tote. 

After years of constant use, my J Crew tote was beginning to show its wear and needed a replacement. The obvious choice was to purchase the Madewell Transport Tote because it's similar in style and design to my J Crew Downing Tote. It was kind of a no brainer really. But when I saw the Madewell Transport Tote in store, my heart sank. I had seen tons of photos of the original transport tote, but in person, I wasn't as impressed. It felt like I would always be comparing the two bags and feeling dissatisfied. I was on my way out of the store when I spotted the Madewell ZIP Transport Tote. Now, that's a handbag! 

How does it Compare? The Zip Transport vs. The Original Transport

I'm sure you're wondering how the zip version differs from the original transport tote. Well obviously, there's a zipper and the added privacy is a major perk. Also, the interior of the zip version is lined whereas the original has exposed leather. And while the Madewell website has the same color listings for both bags, I swear that the leather on the Zip Transport is richer and thicker in texture. In fact, that's what made me gravitate to the zip tote over the original.    

There is also a $20 price difference with the zip version being a little more expensive. But then again, I scooped mine up during a major sale, so the price difference is relative. 

Best Features? 
The best part about this tote is definitely the quality of the leather. It's soft and natural texture is the kind of material that just gets better with age. And it's beyond durable. I've already spilled on it, but you can't even tell because it's Jasmine Proof. Love this bag! I'm also a fan of the fact that the bag is fully lined, with interior pockets on both sides for storage. 

Another favorite feature is the straps. It has the traditional double straps {though shorter than the original}, but there's also a long adjustable strap, allowing the bag to be used as a crossbody. Being a shortie{5'2'}, I really appreciate having the ability to adjust things to suit my height. And as an added bonus…the shoulder band has a widened portion that gives extra comfort. They really thought of everything. 

[iPhone Case//Lipstick//Sunnies]

Where to Take It? 
This tote has quickly become my everyday bag. It's large enough to hold a laptop and tablet=perfect for school or work. And the hands-free crossbody strap is essential for running errands. But I'm most excited to use this for traveling. It will be the perfect carry-on tote and function well as a day bag for exploring new cities. Basically it will go everywhere. 

[OOTD details-Mama's got a brand new Bag] 

What's not to Love? 
In order to give a fully impartial review, I had every intention of being completely honest about the bag's flaws. But I'm having trouble finding any. In fact, I'm considering purchasing the bag in black as well. I will say that the leather on the handles isn't treated on both sides. This can be a little annoying with making sure you have the handles facing outwards, but then again the untreated leather on the inside helps the bag to stay in place on your shoulder. So is that a flaw or an ingenious method of making the bag more wearable? 
PIN IT

All in all, the genuine leather and gold hardware make this bag a classic beauty. Add in the perfect design, and the zip transport tote is definitely taking things up a notch.

linking up with thepleatedpoppy// 

Review: Banana Republic Sloan Ankle Pants

I normally stay away from dress pants because I'm curvy and short (only 5'2'') so I end up looking like an Oompa Loompa

 Thick Thighs + Fitted Pants = a bad combination 

Basically, it's impossible for me to find dress pants, but I've been wanting to try the Sloan pant from Banana Republic for a while now and they finally released a design that I couldn't resist. 

Kate Spade in Review

I realized in January that a little extra incentive would be needed to keep me focused during the remainder of the school year. As handbags are a constant desire, but a rare purchase for me, I knew that a new purse would be the perfect reward. I decided that this would be separate from my yearly clothing budget, so I started setting a little aside here and there. For a while, I thought that I might purchase another Michael Kors bag, but as time went on I decided to buy my first Kate Spade Bag. So imagine my delight when I received this email during my last week of school...