Why Gucci's Swing Leather Tote Is An Instant Classic

Press play to watch my unboxing video.

Can we talk about Gucci's Swing Leather Tote? I love it. Gucci has created the perfect bag for working women, students or über-moms who need to haul diapers, snacks, wipes and sippy cups yet still want to look stylish.

This instant classic rivals the Louis Vuitton Neverfull as the new carryall du jour because it is chic, elegant and functional. Watch my original unboxing video as well as my "How's It Holding Up?" updated version to find out why I love it so much.

The Swing Leather collection has been popular for Gucci. The Italian house has updated the bag and added a small name tag to the original design of it. The Swing Leather collection also features wallets, wristlets, crossbody/WOC bags and children's totes.

The tote comes in two sizes: medium and small.

Gucci Medium Swing Leather Tote 

Gucci Medium Swing Leather Tote in taupe leather with soft pink interior

The medium version (the one I have) comes in a variety color options and measures 13.4"W x 12"H x 7"D with an 8.6" strap drop, similar in size to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM (or medium size).  It features two interior pockets which can hold a cell phone, pens, notebook, etc.  It also has an interior zipper pocket which Gucci says can "fit an iPad." It does. Sold.

Gucci Small Swing Leather Tote

Gucci Small Swing Leather Tote in rose beige leather with light blue interior

The small version also features a variety of color options while measuring 10.6"W x 9.5"H x 6.3"D with an 8" strap drop, similar in size to the smaller Louis Vuitton Neverfull. This roomy bag can also hold a lot.

UPDATE: As of 5/8/15, Fashionphile has two Gucci Swing Leather Totes on sale red and pink. If you want one, hurry! These go quickly.

The Takeaway 
At $1000 for the small and $1350 for the medium, these bags are investment pieces. I believe they are a better value than the Louis Vuitton Neverfull for two reasons: the generous interior pockets and the beautiful, supple leather construction. (Tweet this). The Neverfull is simply monogrammed canvas and starts at $1180 for the smallest version.

If you do invest in one of these, I feel it's a wise one.  They are timeless classics you can carry for years.  If you do tire of them, you can always consign or resell them and get a portion of your money back.  My Louis Vuitton Neverfull practically paid for itself.

Shop The Gucci Swing Leather Collection

Shoes to Wear to a PGA Golf Tournament

Are you staring at your closet wondering what to wear to the Nelson this weekend or the Colonial next week? You're not alone.  When the PGA Tour visits north Texas, I am flooded with questions about what to wear to the tournaments, particularly when it comes to shoes.

1 Keds Cork shoe | 2 Stuart Weitzman Rockon Espadrille | 3 Tory Burch Nude Jackie Wedge | 4 Tommy Hilfilger Polo Dress | 5 Cole Haan Hart Wedge Platform | 6 Tory Burch Black Jackie Wedge | 7 TOMS Classic Open Toe Wedge | 8 Tory Burch Dunn Patent Scroll Platform Slide

Tennies are Fine, Leave the Hoochie Shoes at Home
If you don't want to wear tennis shoes, which are fine but something some women want to avoid, you still have options. One thing ISN'T one, though: heels.

Leave the hoochie shoes at home

I see golf tournament newbies teetering in heels after drinking too many margaritas.  Their heels sink into the grass and their shoes get ruined.

Again: avoid heels.

Work a Wedge or a Cute Flat
If tennis shoes aren't your game and you still want a bit of a lift, go with a comfortable wedge shoe or a flat with a tiny bit of a platform.

I buy these at the Tory Burch outlet when they go on sale.

A well-made wedge is comfortable yet stylish.  I have a closet full of Tory Burch wedge slides I stockpile and wear to Rangers games, golf tournaments, Cowboys training camp, college football games and more.

Browse the selection below of cute flats and wedges for inspiration.

Fair Warning: I don't do cheap footwear.  It's bad for your feet and costs you more in the long run.

For more "What to Wear to the Game {or golf tournament}" inspiration, please check out my "What to Wear the Game" board on Pinterest.

Shoes That Work for PGA Golf Tournaments

Playoff Fashion: What to Wear to the Stars Games

The Stars look to even their first round series against the Ducks at 7pm tonight at the AAC.  Dallas proved it was ready for playoff hockey with an electric, packed house Monday night in the Stars shutout win over Anaheim.  It was an AWESOME atmosphere.

The Fashion Conundrum
Stars fans will wear team gear to games.  For many women coming from work, though, it's difficult to change into a jersey or throw on a t-shirt.  That's why I suggest wearing Stars-green accessories that still prove you're a fan but have you looking the part when you get to the game or watching party.

Accessories

Gear Featuring the Stars Logo

Buy the Looks Featured in This Post

Playoff Fashions: What to Wear to the Mavs Games

The Mavericks try to even their first round series with the Spurs tonight in San Antonio.  The series shifts to Dallas this weekend when the Mavs host the Spurs at 3:30 on Saturday.  Game 4 is Monday at 8:30pm.

Dirk Nowitkzi had a terrible Game 1, posting just 11 points on 4 of 14 shooting.  My money on is him not having another lackluster game.  He has historically rebounded from bad postseason outings with great performances. Bank on it.

The Fashion Problem
The NBA ignores its female fans when it comes to t-shirts and stylish gear to support your favorite team.  It especially ignores Mavs fans.  I recently found more Spurs, Heat & Nets gear in Dallas stores than I did Mavs gear.

One of the few cute Mavs ladies t-shirts I've found online

The Solution
Instead of wasting money on an overpriced t-shirt that isn't stylish, try to find clothing in Mavs colors.  The team will also have t-shirts on seats for fans going to Saturday's game, so you can throw that one over what you're wearing.


Clothing
Here is a range of looks that work within the Mavs blue color scheme.

Accessories
I love the idea of throwing a scarf over your workday outfit or wearing jewelry in the same color scheme of your favorite team.  It's a way to stay stylish and supportive at the same time.

The Takeaway
The good thing about Mavs games is that you can dress up.  A dress, a t-shirt paired with a blazer or a simple blue top over jeans will all work perfectly and prove you're a true MFFL.

Buy the Items Featured in This Post

Clothes That Work Both In AND Out of the Gym

You know my struggle to avoid looking like a sloth at the gym.  Designers are taking note.

Earlier this week, Lululemon announced it's "Function, Meet Fashion" line which offers fashion solutions for our busy lives.  It recognizes that we "don't have time for a wardrobe that keeps forcing you to change".  While I couldn't wear some of these clothes to work, they are perfect for running errands, lunch after a workout and cocktails.

The Here to There Tank top ($58.00) is particularly chic.  It's great for yoga, barre class or pilates and beyond.

Here To There Tank, front view/image via Lululemon.com

Here To There Tank/image via Lululemon 

The tank top is paired with the Here To There Short in blue ($54.00).  It also comes in black.  Adorable. Interestingly, the size 4's in both the tank and shorts are already sold out on Lululemon.com.  Those Lulu lovers are tiny!

Here are a few more looks that offer style and function both in and out of the gym.

Athleta
Athleta is a fashion forward fitnesswear line with a tad higher price point but worth it.  Their clothes are definitely dual-purpose.  They offer free shipping over $50.

Athleta Mix and Mingle Skirt, $59.99

This Athleta skirt is a wonderful versatile option in a breathable "Teelicious" fabric.  It comes in a variety of colors ranging from basic black to an on-trend radiant orchid.  You can wear this on a powerwalk or over yoga shorts after a workout.

Athleta Orinda Top, $44.99

There are some incredibly stylish tops you can pair with the skirt, like this Orinda long sleeve top by Athleta in teaberry. 

Athleta Second Chance Cami, $24.99

If you're looking for something more revealing, how about Athleta's Second Chance Cami Support top in fuschia.  I love so much of what they do.  They design clothes with the modern, fit and busy woman in mind.

Target
Target is bringing it for Spring, too.  They also offer free shipping with a $50 minimum purchase.

C9 by Champion Fit and Flare Tank Top, $19.99

How cute is this C9 by Champion Fit and Flare Tank Top?  It comes in a range of pretty Spring colors and is only $19.99!

C9 by Champion Long Sleeve Yoga T-Shirt, $24.99

You can throw this long sleeve yoga t-shirt over it for some warmth.

C9 by Champion Everyday Fitted Pant, $18.68

Wear the whole look with some sleek black fitted pants like these and I think you're in great shape for almost any casual setting.

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What to Wear to a Mavs Game, St. Patrick's Day Edition

The Mavericks are fresh off a big win over Oklahoma City Sunday night.  YES, the Thunder was without three starters, including Russell Westbrook.  I don't care.  Dallas ended an 11-game losing streak to Kevin Durant and company but there's no time to revel in that victory.  The Mavs are back at the AAC Monday to host the Celtics which presents.....a fashion conundrum.

Dallas Mavericks Women's Solid Slim Fit V-Neck T-Shirt

Think about it: It's St. Patricks Day.  The day we are supposed to wear green.  The Celtics are THE team that was founded on the luck of the Irish!  When you think of them, you envision their green uniforms, the clover and leprechaun.

So what should the St. Patrick's Day-loving Mavs fan wear to a game like this one?  My daughter and I are actually going to the game.  I think this is a great night to break out a Mavericks t-shirt.  The good thing is that there are cute options for even the most sartorial Mavs fan.

Dallas Mavericks T-Shirt Options

Any of those t-shirts would pair well with skinny jeans like these from Rich and Skinny and a cute black blazer like this one from Asos (it's only $53!).

If all else fails and you can't find any colors that work, you can always wear Mavs jewelry.  Sure, some of it is cheesy but I found a cute pendant from Kohl's.

Dallas Mavericks Pendant

It's on sale for $140, still pricey for sterling silver but it's the most stylish one I have seen.   Here's a more affordable version for $24.

What You Need to Know About the Mavs/Celtics Game

• The Mavericks have won six of their last seven games against the Celtics, as well as the last three at the American Airlines Center.  
• Dirk Nowitzki plays really well against Boston, averaging 26.5 points per game in 28 starts against the Celtics.  That is his highest scoring average against any opponent. 
• Boston is terrible with a 22-45 record this season, 8-24 on the road.  The Celtics have lost four in a row, including an overtime loss to New Orleans on Sunday. 
• Dallas is 40-27, 21-10 at home.  The Mavericks are currently 7th in the Western Conference, a half-game ahead of Memphis and just a game and a half ahead of 9th place Phoenix.  Meaning with 15 games left in the season, every game counts.  

Get the Looks Featured in This Post

What to Wear to the Gym: Transitioning to Spring

The weather is offering up all sorts of funkiness right now.  It's that transitional time in which winter is still holding strong but spring is fighting to take over.

When it comes to gym fashion, it can be easy to get sucked into the same, boring jacket that I have been wearing for, literally, five years.

Nike Epic Long Crew

I found some adorable layering tops, called the Epic Long Crew from Nike, that can add warmth with style. These come in a variety of colors and can be paired over a pair of leggings if you're hitting the gym and running errands.

I think these would even work with a cute pair of jeans and heels for a fun weekend lunch.

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What to Wear to the Gym - Stylish Clothes for Working Out & More

For the sake of growth and evolution, NOT vanity, I'm sharing my fitness fashion choices.  Hopefully this can help serve as affordable inspiration.

I learned that I look like a slob at the gym when I was fashion shamed during a yoga class in January.

I have since ramped up my workout wardrobe and found that you don't have to spend a fortune to look decent at the gym and running the subsequent errands that always seem to follow a workout.

Look #1

This ensemble was my weekend yoga attire.  It features the C9 by Champion Skinny Pant pants from Target I love.  They're $29.99 right now.  I had scored a $5 coupon at checkout and bought them in-store for $24.99.  I swear these make your butt look smaller.

I paired these pants with the Inner Light Top from Lucy I bought years ago.  It's fine for yoga.  If you're going to run in this top, you need a bra.

Lucy Inner Light Women's Workout Top

The bright blue top I wore is no longer available online but you can find adorable options from Zappos.  They're $47.99 but they last a while.  My top is four years old.

Look #2

I wore this Lululemon outfit to work out with my therapist trainer, Steve Burgess, followed by numerous errands on Tuesday.  One of those errands included a stop at the Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch.  I hate visiting there in workout clothes but it was just one of those things I couldn't avoid.

Despite the tight fit of the pant and the top, I never felt inappropriate.  They both delivered great coverage.  The top was a Christmas gift two years ago from Lululemon's Run Swiftly line.

I scored the pants at the Lululemon outlet in San Marcos.  This place is the bomb!  They stock last season's merchandise at a lower price point.  I paid $49 for these running pants and I love them.  They have two pockets, one zipper and one inside the waist band, as well as reflective panels down the leg.   They don't seem to be available online anymore.

You can email them and get photos of items in stock.

The Takeaway
You can spend a small fortune on gym clothes.  There is no need to do that.  Whether you're headed to the gym or brunch afterwards, work the sales and shop the discount stores.  You'll be looking like a fitness fashionista for less in no time.

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What to Wear to the Gym, Polar Vortex Edition

If you follow this blog with any regularity you know that I am a recovering fashion victim when it comes to the gym.

The thing is, I don't want to spent a fortune on gym clothes!  I'd rather invest in classic, timeless clothes for work or the weekend.  But after having a come to Jesus with myself after being fashion-shamed in yoga last month, I have resolved to look like a gym slob no more.

The cold weather, and my newfound affinity for yoga, has me searching for affordable pants and tops to wear to the gym AND running errands.

Target has some KILLER ones.

C9 by Champion Premium Skinny Pant

I picked up this exact pair of C9 by Champion Premium Skinny Pant this weekend.  They are gathered at the ankle and fit pretty tight.  The thing is, they're so slimming.  I felt like my booty had shrunk wearing these!

C9 by Champion Pullover

These C9 by Champion pullovers are a cute, warm top to pair with the pants.  They come in a variety of colors.

C9 by Champion Cowl Neck Layered Tank

If you are looking for a tank top to work with the pants, these cowl neck layered tanks with a built-in bra are perfect.

C9 by Champion Women's Yoga French Terry Layering Top

I'm also really digging this Yoga French Terry Layering Top.  So great for throwing over a tank top to keep you warm.

Get the Goods

Put Those Fashions in Action
Interested in hitting the gym?  Exhale Spa has a Love Your Body Workshop Series (who doesn't need to love ourselves a bit more?). 

Love Your Butt: This 30 minute butt-burning workshop will help lift and sculpt your backside with a variety of glute-focused exercises.

Love Your Arms: In 30 minutes the focus will be defining and strengthening your arms.

When: Love Your Butt- Saturday, February 8 at 1:15pm | Love Your Arms- Saturday, February 8 at 1:45pm

Pricing: $15 members and $17 non members each session.

Sign up here.

Thanks for Reading! 

Confession of a Fitness Fashion Victim

Do you worry about how you look when you work out?  I don't.  You don't either, right?

Turns out, we're in the minority.  Many women equate the yoga studio or pilates class as a bamboo-covered runway to show off their latest workout fashion finds.

Don't believe me?  The popularity of Lululemon and Nike activewear is so lucrative that other fashion designers are getting into fashion/fitness game.  Tory Burch wants to do a golf line while H&M is launching its H&M Sport line.

I realized I was the fitness fashion victim during a yoga class at exhale recently.  I was wearing tattered, 7-year old leggings from Target and an old Texas Rangers t-shirt I had scored during a Rangers/Astros series in 2012. Frankly, working in sports I score so many free t-shirts that I didn't buy workout clothes.

The offensive T-shirt

That is changing.  During this particular class, I felt like I was wearing a plaid shirt and Doc Martens amidst couture clad yogis.

I always equated workout wear as an unnecessary expense, thinking my shorts and t-shirts would do just fine.  I'm wrong.  There is also some functionality to activewear.  Shirts with a banded waist won't ride up and expose my stomach while I'm trying to do a headstand.  Longer pants can help with crow pose to keep sweaty legs from slipping on my forearms.

After doing some legwork, I found adorable and affordable activewear options:

C9 by Champion Women's Mesh Cami Tank

I bought this cami tank top at Target and LOVE it.  It doesn't expose my stomach when I am doing crazy yoga poses and the built-in bra is pretty supportive.  Double bonus?  It's only $18.39! 

C9 by Champion Reversible Capri Tight

C9 by Champion offers some adorable tights that are reversible.  It's like two pairs of leggings in one.

Nike Principle 2.0 Dry-Fit Jacket

Over the years, I have accumulated a nice collection of Nike jackets.  These have a fashionable slim fit and do a good job of keeping you warm.  I have had this pink one going on five years.  It has withstood numerous long runs AND bad t-shirts.  At $58.50, it's a worthwhile investment.

AND you can support a team you love while working out or running around town and look fashionable in the process.  Look at what I found:

Texas Rangers Signature Fleece Hoodie

Dallas Cowboys Fleece Shorts 

I'm still on the hunt for cute Stars & Mavs workout gear.  If you find some, please let me know!