Save Your Euros For This Weekend!!!!!

Hi Gumdrop Reader's! We have great news from our fabulous affiliate, LUISVIAROMA. They just announced a NEW SALE - SPEND 1,000 Euros this weekend, and next weekend receive 50% off any order! Click the bag to begin shopping! Shop Luisviaroma on A Few Goody Gumdrops! Shop Lanvin, Balmain, Moncler, Roger Vivier, Giambattista Valli, Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and so much more!
Spend 1,000 Euro this weekend on LUISAVIAROMA.COM, and get 50% off any order placed next weekend!

Go For The Gustto!

Fergie has been spotted toting this funky black Gustto bag around town. Fergie’s Gustto Folina bag is definitely becoming her favorite accessory.Hilary Duff, Eva Longoria Parker, Isla Fisher, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Michelle Trachtenberg and Emmy Rossum are just a few of Gustto’s celebrity fans. This Gustto Folina in black or red is available on Zappos at A Few Goody Gumdrops.View the Gustto Collection by clicking the link.

Handbags from Zappos.com

It's OK to Ruffle Your Feathers

A Few Goody Gumdrops loves the Francesca Feather Skirt Dress in Black by Alice + Olivia.
The dress is made of viscose, spandex and Ostrich feathers. Great for a fun summer nite, party, club, gala, event or dinner. This dress is adorable. Shop Alice + Olivia on Singer22 at A Few Goody Gumdrops. Pair with patent leather pumps or platform sandals and the hot pink Alexander McQueen Squeeze it Clutch.(see post 4/29/09)

Shop Alice + Olivia on Singer22 at A Few Goody Gumdrops

Don't Squeeze the Clutch!

Alexander McQueen
Squeeze It Clutch in Hot Pink Patent Leather! Made in Italy.Fabulous party bag and big enough to hold your lipgloss by Poppy Queen, credit cards, mirror and blackberry.Love the shine on this must-have clutch.Fabulous color for the spring/summer.Pair with fluorescent nail polish by Essie in Punchy Pink! Shop Saks.com on A Few Goody Gumdrops! Saks Shoes & Handbags. Alexander McQueen is quickly becoming one of our favorite handbag designers! You can "squeeze" the clutch as much as you like!

Our Friends at Thefind.com Love Moroccan Inspired Jewels

Be-Jewel Mom with Robinda Unsworth's Rich Moroccan Inspired Jewels Jeweler Robindira Unsworth's collection is inspired by the exotic surroundings of Morocco. Robindira and her husband Robert launched the namesake company in 2001. Each of the designs is handcrafted in the Moroccan inspired Northern California studio, which looks out to the hills of Sonoma County. Among the collection you'll find the perfect complements for a Boho Chic lifestyle including richly dark hued gemstones set in 22k gold vermeil and most recently a collection of fine jewelry partnering rose cut and pave diamonds set in 18-karat gold. From the hills of Sonoma to the Hollywood hills Robindira Unsworth's jewelry has been spotted on the likes of Katie Holmes, Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett Smith and Jennifer Love Hewitt.

We spotted a few of our favorites from the Robindira Unsworth collection that would make a perfect gift for mom. Save 15% using Coupon code - THEFIND for 15% off regularly priced items only at Naturals of Ashland. Good through 12/31/09. See more of Robindira Unsworth here.

Pictured clockwise:
Robindira Unsworth's Lotus Pendant, $200
Robindira Unsworth Smoky Quartz Cluster Necklace, $250
Robindira Unsworth Hammered Hoop with Bead Earring, $110
Robindira Unsworth Hammered Hoop Earring, $130
Thanks to our friends at Thefind.com for sharing this amazing jewelry collection with us!

Weekly Shopping and Goodies...Oh Yes!!!!

Handbag Du Jour

Shopping and Goodies has so much scoop this week! Read all the latest info from the most AMAZING Fashionista's on the Web. Hair Trends, Giveaways, Swapping Clothes, Sweete Shopping, Shopping Lists, So Much Shopping, even High Heel Rain Protectors! Grab your Chai Tea and start reading. See who Shopping and Info checked out!

The Fashionable Housewife dishes on Summer 2009 Hair Trends & Hairstyles
A Few Goody Gumdrops has two favorite Alexander Wang dresses!
Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy asks: where do you draw the line between inspiration and copying? Join the debate and win!
Couture In The City Enter your chance to win with Veet! Ladies It’s Time To Show Off Your Legs! And You Could Win A Trip To Barbados!
Fashion Fille got a really pretty ring with a really cool message. See it and read about it at her blog!
Handbag du Jour is coveting Mena Suvari's luxe Be & D Belleville Hobo in washed champagne eelskin.
Puppies and Worms found a way to get $25 for $10 at restaurants all over the US.
Quinta Trends introduces CandyStore Collective: Sweet e-shopping.
Raging Rouge posts the ultimate Mother's Day shopping list.
Shopping and Info checks out Megan Fox on the set of Jonah Hex.
Style Eyes announces the launch of Posh Swaps, a new site for swapping buying and selling second hand and vintage clothes for free, in her post Let the clothes swapping commence
The Bare Skinny shows you denim done differently
The Fashionable Gal is giving away MAX Factor Lipstick & Mascara. Submit your outfit idea for a chance to win!
The Well-Heeled Society reviews high heel rain protectors that will have you humming Rihanna's, "ella, ella, aye, aye, aye"!
What's Haute can't wait to shop the Rachel Roy diffusion line at Macy's!

Mirror Mirror On Your Shoes & Clutch...Shiny Is In!

Sang A Clutch & Louboutin Booties

Christian Louboutin Open-Toe Booties.It's time to kick up your booties and see those signature red heels and soles. Gorgeous Italian metallic leather shines from heel to peep-toe.Pair with Sang A Flash Parallelogram Metallic Leather Mirrored Clutch. Fabulous booties and matching metallic clutch to wear to your next party or wedding. Two GLAMOROUS key pieces to own for spring/summer.Shop at Saks.com We all know how chic metallic's are! If you're desperate for a mirror...you can your clutch or bootie!
Shop for Shoes at Saks.com

Scarf Sensation!

Great selection of Tolani Scarves to wear this Spring and Summer. Choose from a variety of prints. Scarves have become a part of the everyday outfit! Wrap them around once or twice and look fabulous. Shop Tolani Scarves from Revolve on A Few Goody Gumdrops.Tolani is "committed to producing cutting edge design and the highest quality handcrafted clothing". Shop this amazing scarf collection. Adds so much to any outfit. Looks great with jeans and a tee,too. Our fav is the Tolani Zig Zag...looks so Missoni! Designer Accessories at REVOLVEClothing.com Let us know which one you choose and look sensational!

Simple, Short and Chic with Alexander Wang

Alexandar Wang Stretch Dresses

Fabulous and easy to wear Alexander Wang!







Stretch Crew Dress in Orange and Stretch Lace Dress in Black. Both Dresses are slim cuts. Both colors/styles are ever-so-chic, simple and trendy. Great for a night out. Will definitely turn heads! These dresses are simple enough to pair with tons of fabulous bangles. Pair with high platform or gladiator sandals for a total look. Shop our affiliate at eLuxury on A Few Goody Gumdrops. Shop Alexander Wang at eLUXURY.com!

We Love Pucci Prints

Emilio Pucci
Tiger Print V-Neck Dress
100% silk jersey
Multicolored print
Capped sleeves with slits
Smocking and ornate silvertone accessory on front
Flared hem
Made in Italy

Shop colorful and bold Pucci prints from eLuxury on A Few Goody Gumdrops! Pucci makes exceptional prints and color palettes every season. We love these geometric shapes and explosions of color through out this oh-so-chic-silk jersey dress. Shop Pucci at: eLUXURY presents new arrivals from Emilio Pucci. Pucci dresses and tops are fun and so easy to wear! Wear Pucci dresses for brunch, lunch or cocktails.Pair with bright colored patent leather heels and this season's fluorescent nail polish! I just resurrected my Pucci leggings from fifteen years ago. What we love about Pucci is their prints are timeless. No one will ever know you maybe wearing "vintage".

Guest Blogger...TheFind.com Loves Edun's Socially Conscious Clothing Line

EDUN's Latest Collection Flaunts Bold Patterns and Flowing Silhouettes

The socially conscious clothing company EDUN was founded in 2005 by Ali Hewson and her husband Bono. EDUN's vision is to create beautiful clothing while helping to build sustainable communities and encourage apparel production in Africa.

TheFind's editors were lucky enough to attend the recent launch event of the EDUN pop-up store in San Francisco and view the collection in person. Guests at the event were enticed by the luxurious fabrics and striking cut-out details of the collection. The Spring/Summer '09 collection from EDUN takes inspiration from "The majesty of the kingdom of Africa fused with the finesse of the French." Sweaters knit from organic cotton add interest with open weave tribal patterns. Satin and silk are woven to create intricate patterns adding a luxe feel to free flowing silhouettes. Cut out motifs add a dazzling appeal to the sweaters and dresses.
Embrace sustainable fashion this Earth Day and receive 25% off the entire EDUN Spring/Summer 2009 Collection from 4/20 thru 4/30 with online
coupon code, TheFind25
Thanks to our friends at Edun.com for this exclusive discount available only at TheFind. Search Edun.com on TheFind.

Thefind's top picks for spring/summer are:

Leopard Sash V-neck Tee in White, 100% Organic Cotton
Sacred Straight Leg Jeans in Serengeti Denim Jeans 6-Pocket straight leg
Nyasa Camisole Top in 100 % Silk Georgette
Conservation Top in Black, 100% Organic Cotton Hexagon Sweater - African Violet, 100% Organic Cotton

Weekly Shopping and Goodies...Oh Yes!!!!

The Bare Skinny
Another amazing edition of Weekly Shopping and Goodies. We want to welcome the fantastic blog...Being High Maintenance, Not Bitchy! We know she will contribute to an already fabulous blog exchange! I just got back from Palm Beach and can't wait to read all the goodies this week!Can't wait to see what shoe "swag" men like and Ropa del Alma's new collection. Having seen the Valentino film I can tell you it is a must see for those in the fashion world! Check out Angelina's latest handbag, too. Check out all the latest info!



A Few Goody Gumdrops views the independent film: Valentino,The Last Emperor and chats with the Director!
Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy goes professional and fashionable for under $100!
Couture In The City shares with us spring suits, handbags & shoes at Smartbargains.com
Even though Fashion Fille is far from Australia, she is digging a super cool down-under online boutique!
Princess Dominique Dishes Fashion shares the Cole Haan Air Owen Venetian because Men Have Shoe Swag Too!
Ropa del alma presents it new collection by Quinta Trends
Raging Rouge is now utterly flawless. Ok, not really, but Hello Flawless can certainly help out a bit!
Shopping and Info checks out Angelina Jolie’s latest classic bag.
Style Eyes has yet another shopping dilemma as she considers Bright versus dark florals
The Bare Skinny shines the spotlight on Mary Katrantzou who is definitely a master of illusion!
The Well-Heeled Society shows you a chic slice of life.
diva in a carry on reminds you to refill those bottles, ladies, refill!
See ya next week with more Shopping and Goodies!

Just Chill

B. Chyll Shauna Button Down Sweater in White or Black.Fabulous sweater for spring/summer and we know it looks great with ripped jeans!

It's the perfect piece to complement your weekend outfit.

You can get this chic sweater on Singer22.com.

Shop Singer22 on A Few Goody Gumdrops

Zip Around Town In These!

A Few Goody Gumdrops loves leggings! These leggings are fabulous with the zipper detail. Pair leggings with boots, booties, high platform sandals and Ted Rossi python bangles!

These are going to be so HOT this Fall too!!

David Lerner Multi Zipper Leggings in black with silver zippers as seen on Kim Kardasian. Shop Singer22 on A Few Goody Gumdrops

A Few Goody Gumdrops Interviews the Director of Valentino:The Last Emperor

Last night in Boston A Few Goody Gumdrops attended the opening of the film: Valentino the last emperor. This was truly a very special premier as we met the director and producer of the film, Matt Tyrnauer.We LOVED the film! It was beyond our expectations.It was amazing and the audience was dazzled!

After watching this captivating film, Tyrnauer followed up with a question and answer session.He began by telling us that Valentino told him,"Women want to be beautiful and that is what I do." Tyrnauer was dynamic, funny and candidly honest. He entertained us with some great behind the scenes anecdotes. After all, the film took two and half years to shoot!

Matt worked for Vanity Fair in the Conde Nest Building in New York and decided to do an independent film documentary about fashion and the fashion icon Valentino. Matt opened in Boston last night to rave reviews and a very enthusiastic audience. The ninety six minute film was shortened considerably from the rough cut of seven hours.

The film is about the relationship between Valentino and his long time friend/business partner Giancarlo. Watching the film, we met Valentino's seamstresses who stitch every couture piece by hand. Matt was completely mesmerized watching the seamstresses detailed work for hours.He stated that he has such great respect for them and their craft. He felt that the head seamstress was a master herself. Many of these seamstresses and their daughters have worked for Valentino for forty five years. When they retire Valentino presents them with a silver frame with a picture of himself !

Although Matt was thrilled with his documentary, when he first showed it to Valentino and Giancarlo, they were devastated and in tears.They were not tears of joy; they simply hated the film. Eventually, the film premiered at the Venice Film Festival with sixteen hundred people to a standing ovation. Valentino and Giancarlo now loved the film!

This film is a must-see for every FASHIONISTA. You will be totally engaged from beginning to end.The couture pieces will intrigue you as well. They are gorgeous,timelessly classic and so chic.One can see why Valentino is a true fashion icon. We can not give you any more details about the film....go see it!

"A must-see for fashion lovers and pop-culture alike"-The New York Times

"Fused with wit and self-deprecating humor"-Andre Leon Talley, VOGUE
"Pure movie magic"-The New York Post

Zippety Doo Dah

JJ Winters Multi Zipper Bag as seen on Vanessa Hudgens in Rust Suede. Tote this fabulous bag around town.We love the zipper detail on this ever-so-funky bag. Suede is such a perfect look for spring! Multi zipper bag works great with skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, ripped jeans (our fave!) LnA leggings, walking shorts and more! We also love JJ Winter's Grey Suede Fringe Bag.Be sure to check out the JJ Winter's collection by clicking the link.Winter's bags are well priced, fun and very cool. Toted by all your favorite celebs! Shop JJ Winters on Singer22 at A Few Goody Gumdrops

My Oh My Bluefly

HERMES black leather double wrap turnlock bracelet and cobalt enamel H 'Manege' bangle on our affiliate: Bluefly! Check out this fabulous selection of leather and enamel bracelets right now on Bluefly! So many classically chic HERMES must-haves in one place!

Shop HERMES Handbags and Accessories Department at Bluefly on A Few Goody Gumdrops!

We have a lucky winner!! Jordana from Vancouver, Canada has won the Jalda Croc Bean Clutch!!! Jordana said, "Wow omg!! I can't believe I won!! haha .Thanks so much!! Loved the interview and your blog. I'm so excited!! I never win anything, I always lose!! lol" We know Jordana will love her new bag. We wish to thank Jalda for sponsoring this fabulous giveaway! Jordana also has an amazing blog: Being High Maintenance, Not Bitchy: highmaintenancewoman.blogspot.com You can visit Jalda's handbags at www.jaldastyle.com

Fabulous Falaba

Falaba is Fabulous in Semi-Matte. "A highly pigmented matte, non-drying formula that provides a longwearing, full-bodied, velvety finish". Falaba is so gorgeous especially with Nars lip liners in Mamie, Amazon or Rosebud. Check out the Spring/Summer Collection on Nars by clicking the link. So many great choices for your gorgeous lips!

Shop Nars on A Few Goody Gumdrops! Simply Falaba!

Louis Vuitton Goes Fluorescent

We love the Louis Vuitton Monogram Graffiti Keepall 50 and the matching Monogram Graffiti Zippy Wallet. This fluorescent graffiti collection which is a tribute to the late Stephen Sprouse is edgy and yet so classically chic! This is definitely on our must-have list! I had a kelly green Stephen Sprouse dress with a giant eye motif across the chest from years ago! (dating myself) Stephen Sprouse was always so cool and a major influence on pop culture and design. Shop Louis Vuitton on A Few Goody Gumdrop's from our affiliate...eLuxury! Great burst of color for your spring wardrobe!
Louis Vuitton Best-Sellers at eLUXURY.com: Monogram Popincourt Haut

Links a la Mode....Ooh La La!

Links à la Mode : April 16th
39thandbroadway.com - The Evil Fashion Boss
3stylelife - Microdesign F: Chalk
A Few Goody GumDrops: - is “Inspired” by Handbag Designer, Katherine Kwei and Her Eternity Knot
Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy: - Getting to know… designers of Be & D Handbags
Breakfast at Saks: - Brand Love: Ellery
Broke & Beautiful - ECIG: JaJo Couture
Daisy Fairbanks Vintage: -In Your Easter Bonnet-The Art of the Hat
Debutante Clothing: - Thrifting Words to Live By - Search High and Low - A Tale of Prada dramatis personae - Beach Blanket Bingo! Kiss & Dashing Diva Beauty Giveaway
fete a fete: - Eminence Biodynamic Collection
Independent Fashion Bloggers: - Top 5 Traffic Yielding Social Networks for Fashion Blogs Instant Vintage - Lil Shop of Horror: Urban Outfitters
Munique Fashions: - Organizing Carrie Bradshaw’s wardrobe
Retro Chick - Totally Clueless
shopfair: - Fair Trade Jeans Special
Solo Lisa: - From Shanghai With Love: An Interview With Helen Lee
Super Kawaii Mama - Being Joan
SwanDiamondRose: - ~the SWANclothing TINY ROSE purse~
The Coveted: - This Old Rag? Our Lurking Treasures
The Curvy Fashionista: - Top Fashion Do’s for the Plus-Size Curvy Fashionista
The Demoiselles - Birds of a Feather: Lady Smaggle

Guest Blogger...thefind.com Loves The Fringe Benefits

Frivlous Fabulous Fun! Our friends at thefind.com know how to treat their feet to some frivolous fun with fringe ankle sandals. Tie it up with a high-heeled version of the fringe trend that is embellishing everything from handbags to shoes and jewelry. Styled in textures ranging from exotic python, suede to budget-friendly faux suede. Couple with bold ikat ethnic prints for sultry city nights or with skinny jeans for weekend jaunts around town.

The Ultimate Fringe Sandal: Sergio Rossi Yvette Fringe Python Sandals $1295.00 at Intermix

Luxe 'n Lovely: Christian Louboutin Short Tina 120 suede ankle sandals, $1,195 at Net-a-Porter

Get on Trend for Less: Miss Me Dream 3 Fringe Sandal, $39.95 at DSW

Deal of the Day: Fringe Platforms, $17.49 at Charlotte Russe

Bet you can't tell which fringe sandal is the Real Deal!!!!!

The "Skye" Is The Limit

We love CC Skye's Double Mac Link Bracelet in Black and Gold. This fabulous must-have leather bracelet from CC Skye is available in five great colors...Black, Blue, Chocolate, Orange and Green on Singer22. The Double Mac Link Bracelet is edgy and fun.Wear daytime or evening. Look oh-so-chic in Black and Gold. The Orange is our second favorite!

Shop CC Skye on Singer22 at A Few Goody Gumdrops

Weekly Shopping and Goodies

Shopping and Info's Monokini!

As always, Shopping and Goodies dishes on the latest scoops, trends and styles. Dress like a Girly Tomboy, Get "Inspired" by Katherine Kwei's Eternity Knot, Discover Revelation by M.E. and so much more! If I were you, I'd start reading right now! Are you still enjoying the Ripped Jean trend ?


The Fashionable Housewife dishes on the Ripped Jeans trend.
A Few Goody Gumdrops is so "Inspired" by Handbag Designer, Katherine Kwei!
Couture In The City shows us how to work out our legs with Reebok EasyTone sport show for women.
During her spring break, Fashion Fille caught up on her life. Hear about some of what she did at her blog!
Handbag du Jour presents the Steal du Jour: the 7 For All Mankind Edgemont Tote
Puppies and Worms found Bugaboo strollers on SALE.
Quinta Trends loves Carolina Parragué fashion photos
Raging Rouge starts each morning selecting one man from a group of hotties. Confused? Click HERE for the scoop!.
Shopping and Info checks out the monokini swimsuit trend for summer.
Style Eyes finds a great new British designer label for those who like to dress like a Girly Tomboy
The Bare Skinny is loving Michael Jackson in his Balmain shirt.
The Fashionable Gal wants you to get your 2,000 Calories from Max Factor
The Well-Heeled Society helps you improve your batting average with a Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara Giveaway!
What's Haute Magazine discovers fashion line Revelation by M.E.
diva in a carry on is digging on these delicate new necklace designs by prismera design!
See ya next week for more Shopping and Goodies ! xo,Betsy

A Few Goody Gumdrops is "Inspired" by Handbag Designer, Katherine Kwei and Her Eternity Knot

1.When did you launch your first line of handbags and what inspired you? I launched my line for SS07 in the fall of 2006. I have always wanted to own my own company and fell in love with handbags when I working at Louis Vuitton.
2.You have a very unique style handbag.Is the Eternity knot-inspired weave your signature?
Yes, the Chinese eternity-knot INSPIRED weave that I do is my signature. I started with the Zara & Donna line knot weave when I was in design school at the London College of Fashion, and you can see these bags in my final collection which was shown at the school's catwalk show when I attained my Masters Degree. The Teresa & Kayla knot weave, and the Stella & Bela knot weaves are newer knotting designs. We are always trying to develop new knot weaves and have also added the Joyce, Roxy and Kate lines recently.
3.What inspired this design?
The Zara and Donna knot weave was inspired, like all my knot weaves by the Chinese eternity knot. My grandmother was a seamstress for Katharine Hepburn and also had her own line of necklaces that she made using silk cord and semi precious stones. She taught me how these were made and thus my fascination and love to create my own version into bag grew.
4. What did you do before you designed your own line of handbags?
Before I started my own line, I tried many professions. I was an Environmental Science major in college and loved being outdoors in camping and hiking expeditions. When I left college I was in 'finance' mostly as an analyst for investment banking firm. I was not very good at the 'numbers' profession and got my 'fashion' break when I joined a company in Hong Kong doing private events and PR. My boss of this company went to Louis Vuitton and brought me with him, and thus that is how I got into fashion and handbags. When I decided to start my own company, I left Louis Vuitton and enrolled into the London College of Fashion for accessories design and finally graduated with my Masters Degree in 2005.
5.I understand you have a growing list of celebrities toting your bags around town. How does this make you feel and who are the celebs?
I am always very excited when we spot celebrities with our bags! It is really such an honour! Eva Longoria was the first celeb we spotted carrying our bag and we were just over the moon. Since then, we have had Jennifer Lopez, Blake Lively, Taylor Momsen, Eva Mendes, Maria Menounos, and Olivia Palermo to name a few.
6.How excited do you get when you see someone carrying one of your bags?
Actually I have never seen anyone except my friends carrying my bags, although my friends see tons of people carrying my bags. I must not go out enough... In any case, I love it when my friends carry my bags. Sometimes I am embarrassed but it's only because I am quite shy and feel very touched and honoured that they would carry my bags when they have so many other choices.
7.What is new for this season?
We are showing our AW09 line now and we have a new batik print and 'pop' line which using mirrored skins for a super chic bag line. For SS09 we added the Alixi line which is plastic jelly and lambskin bags that are perfect for the beach. We have the ROXY line which is a super adorable 'hipster' line with perforated lambskin. For our Edna line, we did this in canvas and lambskin, which brought the price point down a but, while sticking true to our classic shape and signature knot weave.
8.What are some of the exotic skins that you use?
We don't use 'exotic' skins but do use 'real' water snake which is not endangered. We did use 'embossed' ostrich on sheep skin for our Isabel and Donna line for SS09 which was got a very good response. I prefer not to use endangered skins.
9.I love your Donna and Donna Diamond line. What is your favorite line in your collection?
I don't have a 'favourite' line but do wind up using the Edna bags mostly during the day time, as the styles are more tote styles and good for carrying files. I use the Donna and Isabel lines mostly for evening bags.
10.I know you design alot of evening bags. Do you design bags for everyday?
Yes, we have lots of everyday bags. The Edna Tote is my favourite for the day, as well as the Donna Tote and Satchel (depending on how much stuff I am carrying). The Bela line is also great for daytime use, and the Alixi Bucket is perfect for when you go on vacation and need a beach tote.
11.Have you been the recipient of any awards?
Yes, I won the award for Best Designer at the Independent Handbag Designer Award and we won the Speciality Business Plan award the a business plan competition at the Harvard Business School. We were runner up at the latest IDA 2008 awards for best Handbag designer.
12.Do you hope to open your own boutique in the future?
We are so happy and lucky with our existing department stores and boutiques that I am not sure if we will need to have our own boutique. Maybe very far down the line (i.e. 10 years from now)... But for now, we are doing well with our stores and are thrilled to be working with them.
13. Are your bags carried in any luxury department stores?
Yes,we are at Saks in New York city and in Beverly Hills. We are also on www.neimanmarcus.com. We will be selling our AW09 bags in Fred Segel, Kitson and the gift stores in the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas.
14.What are your favorite blogs?
I must admit I don't read too many blogs, but I of course love A Few Goody Gumdrops, Style Bubble and Business of Fashion.
A Few Goody Gumdrops wishes to thank Katherine for her interview and wishes her much success!

A Few Goody Gumdrops Goes Green...Apple

Another Green Goody!!!! What a great way to be part of the Green Phenomenon! You can go green, too! Just carry Bottega Veneta's Green Apple Basketwoven Miniaudiere Satin 'Knot' Clutch. Made in Italy. We love this color! Fabulous for Spring, Summer, Hamptons, Nantucket and more. This bag is chic, oh-so elegant and the color is just "bright" for spring! Definitely room to carry all your favorite necessities... cell phone, lip gloss, concealer, Juidth Leiber pill box, mirror and charge card!

retail value: $1,150.00
bluefly: $920.00
you save 20% from our affiliate Bluefly!

Go Green Apple with Bottega Veneta. Handbags and Accessories Department at Bluefly on A Few Goody Gumdrops. It's so chic to go Green!

Glow in the Dark

Davis by Ruthie Davis

Pop Vinyl Double Platform Sandals
Exclusively at Shopbop on A Few Goody Gumdrops!!! We love this platform sandal for spring and summer especially with the leather-covered platform and neon spike 5" lucite heel. A funky shoe and neon leather sole to wear with everything. You'll be glowing with just the right pop of color. Check out the entire Ruthie Davis Collection on Shopbop.There are so many fun and trendy shoes to choose with tons of detail.One of our favorite designers.

Click here to: shopbop.com

A Current Elliott Giveaway from The Fashionable Housewife

Enter To Win A CURRENT ELLIOTT Circle Vest
Our Friend and Guest Blogger.. The Fashionable Housewife has an AMAZING GIVEAWAY!

They're giving away a CURRENT ELLIOTT Circle Vest worth $172.00!
What better way to start off a new season than with a brand new designer accessory? The Fashionable Housewife is partnering with Chickdowntown.com to give one lucky reader a chance to win a CURRENT ELLIOTT Circle Vest. All you have to do is click the contest link below and tell them your favorite designer on Chickdowntown.com and why! Don’t forget to use a working email address so we can contact you if you are the winner!

Click here to win this stylish must-have denim vest! Enter To Win A CURRENT ELLIOTT Circle Vest

My Oh My Bluefly

Just saw this Fabulous Bottega Veneta Woven Belt in Bottega Veneta Boutique on Fifth Ave and almost paid full price! Yikes!!!!! Simply click the link at the bottom of the page to purchase and save 32%. Shop Bluefly On A Few Goody Gumdrops.

Bottega Venetta You save 32% on Bluefly!
Black woven leather prong-close belt
retail value: $420.00
bluefly: $336.00
reduced: $285.99 You save 32% from our affiliate, Bluefly!

Color: Black
Supple woven leather with smooth leather underside
Brushed silvertone circular buckle
1¾'' wide strap
Buckle measures 2½'' diameter

Handbags and Accessories Department My Oh My, Bluefly!

Links a la Mode....Oo la la

Links à la Mode : April 9th
39th & Broadway - 39th & Broadway breaks down fashion and the economy
A Few Goody GumDrops - Handbag give-away & Designer Scoop from Jalda!

Capitola Girl Jewelry Blog - Sassy Sparkle with Joy Cutler Jewelry
Clutch 22 - Love Your Legs in Denim Shorts + Discount Code!
Consume or Consumed - Consumed by a quest for Moschino’s Trompe L’Oeil Pieces
Culturistas - Get Kate Moss’s Style without Breaking the Bank
Fashion File - When a super fab Tolani scarf at Fashion File
FashionMind - Fabulous DIY Hair Accessories
Hello Outlaw - The Outlaw 1970’s style crush: Edwige Belmore
Hong Kong Fashion Geek - Zipper dee doo dah with Hong Kong Fashion Geek
Independent Fashion Bloggers - IFB Launches LittleBirdie to help bloggers find the right content…
Public Personae - 30 days of style with Sarah X
Star Fashion Addict - New iPhone app let’s you be iFashionista!
Studio Purpura - Studio Purpura’s Hong Kong Shopping Hot Spots
Style Symmetry - A Chat with Glamourai -The Sensei of Glam
Style With Anna - Anna digs on hottie Johnny Depp’s style
STYLEMOM - Is Michelle Obama REALLY the First Lady of Fashion???
Super Kawaii Mama - Vintage beauty tips from Super Kawaii Mama
The Coveted - Lady Coveted styling debut with Beautiful Dolls
The Curvy Fashionista - Designer Anna Scholz & her “curvalicious” fashions
The Fish Tank - Easy on the eyes & easy on the pocket: Fresh beauty looks for Spring
Work Chic - Work Chic dishes the skirt chic

Party in Metallic Python

Ted Rossi 's Python Bangles in gold, bronze, ivory or natural are a must-have for spring. Rossi uses the finest python leathers and gold gilt leather linings. Rossi has designed these fabulous exoctic skin cuffs for all your wardrobes. Wear one, two or three.Wear multiple bangles on both arms for that extra fun and shimmery look. As Town and Country (March issue) tells us...Shine is Chic.Great bangles for day or evening. Bracelets starting at $95.We love them all!

Shop Super Cool Python Bracelets on Vivre at A Few Goody Gumdrops and put some sparkle in your day!

Weekly Shopping and Goodies!

Styles Eyes Fashion Blog





We have a great issue of Shopping and Goodies this week! We have Giveaways, Interviews, Spring Trends, Sequin Trousers,Lots of Fringe, Contemporary Jewelry,Brunch in NYC and so much more! I'd start reading all the scoop if I were you. Let us know if you'd wear ripped jeans! We love em!

The Fashionable Housewife has the details on all the Spring & Summer 2009 Hair Style And Hair Cut Trends
A Few Goody Gumdrops Scoops Interview and Giveaway with Handbag Designer, Jalda. Enter to Win!
Couture In The City Gives us the scoop on the top five haute trends for spring & summer 2009
Fashion Fille has a fantastic giveaway for a gorgeous bright blue zigzag Tolani scarf from chickdowntown.com...enter today!
Handbag du Jour's Haute Bag of the Week is the Elie Tahari Daphne Oversized Clutch.
Princess Dominique Dishes Fashion Premieres the HOTTEST Indie Designers Jypsea Leather Fringe Belt - Win It!
Quinta Trends talk with Elvira López del Prado about her contemporary jewelry.
Shopping and Info loves Rihanna’s fringe sandals.
Style Eyes is completely in love with Sequin trousers
The Well-Heeled Society shows off her shoe-licious cookie created by What a Cookie!
What's Haute Magazine reviews the new brunch service at tbsp & spoon NYC and chats with owner Melissa Chmelar.
diva in a carry on has partnered with Chickdowntown.com to give away this awesome Caesar's Designs gold vermeil flower ring - don't miss this giveaway!
The Bare Skinny gives you the "Hole" truth on the ripped jeans trend.
The Fashionable Gal tells you how to get Great Lips for Girl’s Night Out!
Puppies and Worms loves Lemon Mousse and Hazelnut Meringue for Passover or Easter.

A Few Goody Gumdrops Scoops an Interview with Jalda and A Great Giveaway!

We are inviting our readers to participate in an amazing giveaway! We are so excited! One lucky reader will receive a to-die-for Jalda New Croc Bean Clutch in black.To win this oh-so fashionable clutch,visit Jalda's website at www.jaldastyle.com and tell us which bag is your favorite! A Few Goody Gumdrops will pick the winner and Jalda will send the bag directly from her office to you.
What we love about this bag is that it can be used as a foldover clutch or you can turn into a mini-tote when unfolded. The bag is made of Italian leather and is embossed with a croc design.The lining is ribbed satin and there is an invisible magnetic snap closure. The handle is brushed brass. This fabulous bag retails for $315.

So, go right over to Jalda's website, tell us your favorite bag and keep your fingers crossed. You could be the proud owner of one of the most exciting styles of the season! Jalda's bags can be seen on a number of celebs and are found in many high end boutiques and department stores across the country.

A Few Goody Gumdrops Interviews Jalda!

When did you launch your line of handbags and what inspired you to design handbags?
JALDA was created six years ago, when I first designed a line of luxurious, feminine computer bags. Up until then I was working in corporate America and as a business-woman, and I struggled to find that perfect, practical yet stylish computer tote. I always had a creative mind so I decided to give it a shot and came up with a line of my own made from colorful Italian leather bags that were a hit with women like me - dynamic, professional women with a passion for fashion. Soon after I was designing evening bags and clutches for friends, that were so popular that I added them to the line. Over time, these have have become my specialty: colorful, timeless, unique clutches made in the US out of the best Italian leather and hardware you can find.

You have a very unique style handbag.Is the fold over clutch with the bean handle your signature bag?
The Bean Clutch is definitely one of my two signature styles, along with the Original Clutch. I designed both styles a few years ago and they have been extremely popular ever since, so I never took them out of my collections, I just keep updating them. I have made them in Croc, Python, Lamb, Stingray, Anaconda, Patent etc...
The Bean Clutch is quite special as it can unfold into a mini-tote. The bean-shaped handle gives it an edge and a retro feel that women across the globe love.

How did you come up with this design?
It actually started with the handle! I found it at my hardware supplier in Italy, and loved it. The design of the bag popped into my head right away after that. That's how it usually works: something inspires me - in this case the handle - and the rest kind of comes to me. I find that the bags that come to me the easiest and that don't run into many glitches in the sampling process work the best. I love simplicity, and I believe that things have to "flow" - in life general as well as in the design process. Anything that you have to battle with too much probably isn't mean to be!

Do your bags follow fashion trends? For example: If oversized clutches are in will you follow that trend ? If metallics are in will you follow that trend?
The main influence in every bag I ever designed was always my own personal taste. I do not tend to follow trends per se, as I think designers should have no limits or restrictions, they should feel free to explore new ideas and concepts no matter what other people are saying. Following a trend would essentially mean not following my heart. However, there is absolutely a subconscious influence as every year, there are elements in my new collections that fit some of the trends described in magazines. For example, when XL clutches became popular, I had just added the Eden Clutch to my collection, same thing for the purple trend, the metallics trend... Basically, I feel you should either start a trend, or let trends inspire you, not control or limit you.

Are your bags made in the United States? If so,does the give you more control over the outcome? If not, where are they made?
Yes, we pride ourselves on being one of the very few American designers who have kept their production in the US. All our bags and accessories are made in Los Angeles, which not only guarantees a high level of quality, but also means that we can have a close relationship with our manufacturers and have more control over production in general. The factories we work with are truly our partners, and being so close to them allows us to constantly work on new designs, and be flexible with our production and deliveries.

What kinds of leathers do you use? Do you use exotic skins? Do you use a variety of textures?
I use fine Italian leathers such as lamb, patent or goat as they make classic bags but with the highest quality leather that our customers recognize and appreciate. And of course our Italian embossed leathers are a staple for us, something I started with and that I will probably never stop as the demand has never decreased! I also love exotic skins and use them a lot as they are perfect for evening bags. They are so luxurious and special that they add an extra level of quality that is reflected in the price, but that's so worth it! Python and Stingray are all-time favorites, but Eel and Ostrich Leg are exciting as well.

What type of woman uses your bag? What age group?
I have never thought of my customers as a homogenous group of women, more of a type of woman: she is dynamic, likes to be unique, has a love for fashion, and spends money on it! Consequently my bags can be carried by a college student going to a party, a 50-year old socialite attending a luncheon, or a celebrity on the red carpet. I have met fans of the JALDA line who saved up for months for a small clutch, to celebrities who bought them in several colors at once....

What's it like when you see someone using one of your bags?
This is always very flattering when I see one of my designs on a stranger on the street or a celebrity in a magazine. What I do is very much a business, and most of the time that's how I perceive what I do every day: I'm running a business where I deal with finances, production, sales, marketing, personnel. When I see someone with my bag it makes me stop and remember of why I do this and why it's successful: lots of people are buying the product! I love the thought that this woman liked this bag so much that she spent hundreds of dollars on it, and it all just started with an idea in my head. It's the best!

Are your bags easy to use?
When I design a new bag, I always keep three things in mind: style, comfort and practicality. If I am not sure about one particular bag, I carry it for a couple of weeks myself and then make the necessary changes to make it more practical. All JALDA handbags have multiple interior pockets for cell phone, keys etc... JALDA bags are carried by modern women who work, travel and have hectic lives, so I like to create bags that fit those women's lifestyles. My customers are just like me, and I can't stand things that don't work!

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I hope that the business has continued to grow, and that I can be in a place where the brand is so established that I can add different product categories that all follow the same principal of quality, simplicity and uniqueness of the JALDA brand. I'd love to add shoes, clothing and home products such as glasses, plates, linens etc.

Would you like to open a Jalda Boutique?
This is not something I am considering at the moment because I am very happy with the quality of the stores that carry my bags. We are lucky enough to work with the very best department stores worldwide so I feel that opening a JALDA boutique is not necessary. Furthermore it is a whole different business model that does not fit in my operations at this time. In several years when the brand is a household name, I envision it making sense to invest in a retail division, but for now just selling directly to stores is keeping us more than busy!

What do you like most about your job?
I come from a corporate background and have a business education, so I love that this is very much a business, and that I have to deal with ALL aspects of that - it satisfies my intellectual side. And I love the "get it done" nature of the business: things have to be designed, made, sold, shipped - that satisfies my practical, hands-on side. And of course I really love that my product is based on my being able to let my creative juices run free and create objects that people find beautiful and absolutely want to have. In a way fashion is a superficial business, but at the same time it's a "happy" one - people buy the product because they love it and owning it makes them happy. And the money that generates goes to creating jobs and allowing myself and my employees and subcontractors to pay the rent, eat, go on vacation, and of course: buy handbags!

A Few Goody Gumdrops wishes to thank Jalda for sponsoring our Giveaway! Contest will run til April 16th. Please leave your email address so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner. Good Luck!