Thinking About a Gift Card for Mom? Think Etsy!

 Still need a last-minute gift for that special mom in your life?  Lots of people steer away from gift cards because they think they are impersonal, but those people probably have never received an Etsy gift card.  Etsy gift cards can be printed or emailed directly to the recipient, which will open up a magical world of endless possibilities for her.  Not only can she shop for just about anything handmade or vintage on Etsy, she can have something custom made just for her.  I'm totally going to use myself as an example . . .

I shop on Etsy A LOT.  The sellers are always wonderful, and a lot of them will customize items to fit your needs and your tastes.  One of my favorite Etsy sellers is Trish, the owner of CaliCatBoutique.  She sells handmade handbags, totes, clutches, backpacks, wallets, and more.  Everything you see pictured here, Trish has made just for me.  How awesome is that?!!

These are coordinating mother-daughter Mabel tote bags.  My daughter and I could not agree on a fabric, so we decided that having coordinating bags is just as good as having matching ones.  Trish also created matching accessories according to our specific needs.  I cannot wait for the weather to warm up, so we can start carrying these babies!

Both of the bags above and the ones shown below were not bags the CaliCatBoutique offered in its shop.  Do not assume what you see in any Etsy shop is all there is to offer.  Many sellers will create something just for you.  That is something you cannot get at the mall or your local department store.  I should also add that these custom bags cost a fraction of what designer bags cost.

The two bags shown above are mother-daughter Disney Princess-inspired Marianne clutches.  I fell in love with this fabric, but thought it would suit a smaller bag because it was so colorful.  My daughter wanted glitter on her bag and I wanted something purple.  I love how these turned out, and they are perfect for when we want to travel lightly.

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Above you'll find a larger version of the Denver Backpack and custom Clematis Clutch. Both accompanied me to Utah last year, where my oldest competed at the USA Taekwondo National Championships in Salt Lake City.

These two are the very first custom handbags I ordered from the CaliCatBoutique.  Above is a custom Star Wars Rey-Inspired Sublime Bag.  Below is a custom Disney Princess-inspired Everyday Tote Bag.

Am I stopping there?  NO WAY!!!  I currently have a Disney Mulan-inspired bag and clutch in the works with the CaliCatBoutique.  As you can see, the possibilities are endless on Etsy.  Give mom what she wants, which we all know is to have things her way. Am I right?

What are your favorite Etsy finds for Mom?

Tell us in a comment here.

Turn a Vera Bradley Crossbody Bag into a Shoulder Bag in Less Than 5 Minutes { No-Sew Project }

A few months ago, I was at the mall with my family because my oldest was taking a coding class at the Microsoft store.  The class was an hour long, so I went across the way to browse at the Vera Bradley store.  It had been awhile since I had been in there.  I asked my daughter to join me.

Big surprise!  My browsing turned into buying.  My daughter and I both loved the Lilac Tapestry print and I couldn't pass up a chance to have another set of mother-daughter coordinating handbags.  I went pretty, but practical, and picked out the Small Trimmed Vera Tote.  My daughter had a little more trouble though.  She used to be all about crossbody bags, but now that she is a little older, she really wanted a shoulder bag, like a mini hobo or something with a shorter strap.  The problem was that Vera Bradley didn't carry any smaller bags that weren't a crossbody style at the moment.  We looked at the Vera Bradley Little Crossbody bag, and I decided I could probably do a little altering and shorten the strap on that bag for her.

When I got home, I had a feeling of doubt.  What if I shortened the strap on that bag and my daughter changes her mind?

How I shortened the strap on our Vera Bradley crossbody bag with no sewing . . . 

Step 1.  Adjust the 56" strap to the desired length, even though you will have a tail of excess fabric.  (I would say that ours was adjusted to have a 6" or 7" drop.)

Step 2.  Tie a knot at the base of the strap to keep the strap from being lengthened or shortened any further.

Step 3.  Tuck the tail of excess fabric into the exterior pocket on the backside of the bag.  Secure it inside the pocket with a small safety pin to make sure it stays put and does not interfere with the functionality of the pocket.

That's it!  The tail blends in well whether you have a print or solid fabric bag.  Because the tail is tucked into the pocket on the backside of the bag, it really isn't noticeable at all.  My daughter was very pleased with the result, and I feel good that I can easily turn this bag back into a crossbody bag if she so desires.

Although I haven't tried this with other styles of Very Bradley crossbody bags, it should work if you have the following:

• An adjustable strap
• A strap that is not too wide to tie in a knot neatly
• A pocket on the backside of the bag that runs the nearly the full width of the bag.

What easy no-sew projects have you tried?  Share them with us in a comment here.

Nothing Cheers Me Up More Than an Amazing Deal on a Coach Bag from the Coach Factory Online!

I have been a Coach customer for over 20 years.  I used to buy strictly leather Coach bags, but since the leather used in the handbags has changed noticeably over the years, I have slowly migrated away from their leather bags.

Something else that's changed slightly is the exclusivity of who can sell first quality Coach products, especially online.  You can find Coach bags on Amazon, Ebay, and other websites that you may have never heard of before.  All the sellers state that they are authorized dealers, but how can you be sure?  Although there are plenty of resources online that help you to discern a genuine coach bag from a replica, there is always that little bit of concern in the back of my mind.  Since a fellow fashion blogger told me about Coach Factory Online, the official online Coach Factory outlet, I no longer need to risk shopping for deals on Coach bags elsewhere online.  I still look to see what's on sale in the Coach department at Macy's when I'm there, but the selection is much larger at the online outlet.

All you need to do to start receiving invitations to the Coach Factory Online sales events is to register on their homepage or you can drop me a note with your email and I can send you an invitation since I'm an existing member.  It's completely free!  When I first registered, I was skeptical about how good the prices would really be, but just wanted to take a look for myself.  The website says that the invitations to each sale event are sent at random, suggesting that not everyone receives invitations to every event.  That may be true, but I receive quite a few regularly.  Also, the selection changes quite frequently, so you can always return the following week if you don't see something you love.

I was pretty thrilled to get the Coach Park Metro Signature Tote for $133.56 (Reg. $318) and the Coach Darcy Patent Leather Medium Skinny for $24.48 (Reg. $68).  On top of that, I got free shipping because my order totaled at least $150!  Don't get me wrong, I don't buy Coach bags on a regular basis, but I wanted to share this site with those of you who may be in the market for one.  When you see the one that is the perfect match for you at a huge discount . . . it's kismet!!!

Shop Smart . . . One Handbag & 5 Shoes Styles To Meet All Your Casual Needs

Although I love to shop, I always try to shop smart.  For example, I have a not-so-secret obsession with handbags.  However, I do not switch handbags daily.  In fact, I have grown more selective about which handbags I purchase so that I can enjoy them for at least a few months at a time.  In order to shop smart, I choose a handbag that I absolutely love and then I make sure I have several pairs of shoes that work that bag.  If I fail to do this, then the bag will likely end up in the back of my closet in less than one month's time.

For casual everyday use, I am infatuated with the Reef Weekender Bag.  Not only does the generous size make it versatile, but the colors in the hand woven textile are among my favorites.  This oversized bag could easily be paired with anything from denim to linen to silk.  All I would need to make this weekender carry me through at least the next two seasons would be some stylish and comfortable coordinating footwear.


My top shoe picks for the upcoming seasons . . . 

1.  Ballet Flats (The Reef Tropic Ballet Flat comes in a pattern that matches the Reef Weekender perfectly! . . . I'm just sayin'.)

2.  Low-Profile Boots or Booties (My go-to shoe for pairing with denim.)

3.  Flat or Wedge-Heel Espadrilles  (I personally cannot walk in wedges, but if you can, go for it because they look so flattering and feminine.)

4.  Canvas or Crocheted Oxfords (For when you are feeling a bit sporty, but not too sporty.)

5.  Understated Sandals  (Choose a pair that can be worn as easily with denim capris as with a little black dress.)


What tips do you have for shopping smart when it comes to shoes and handbags?

The Perfect Fall Outfit For the Modern Confident Fun-Loving Girl!

This post has been written as part of an affiliate campaign for Zulily.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Our 6-1/2 year old daughter feels just as comfortable in a tutu as she does in combat boots.  It really depends on her mood.  What I would consider to be the perfect outfit for her is something that is girly, sporty, and edgy all at once.  I usually am right on target when I shop for her as far as clothing and footwear goes, but it's a 50/50 chance I will choose the wrong thing when it comes to jewelry and hair accessories.  She would need to accessorize this outfit herself and she wouldn't have it any other way.


The perfect fall outfit for my 1st grader . . . 

1.  Inkbone Lemon 'Smart Girls Rule' Tee - Girls - $9.99 (Originally $18)

2.  Utilitarian Cargo Pants - Toddler & Girls - $37.99 (Originally $72)

3.  Blue Fireplace Zip-Up Hoodie - Girls - $49.99 (Originally $96)

4.  Carrini Brown Buckle Boot - $19.99 (Originally $50)

5.  Trish Scully Child Coral Eyelet Ruffle Tote - $25.99 (Originally $44)

Zulily also offers tons of cute clothing and footwear for boys too!  I really should write more about boys' fashions for my two sons, but it is just too much fun shopping for my daughter.

Weekend Wishlist: Sydney Love Handbags, Mother/Daughter Aprons, Fall Decor, and More!

It's Friday!  That means I've been browsing the new sales on Zulily.  I love shopping on the weekends because I only pay shipping on my first order and get free shipping on everything else from Friday through midnight on Sunday.  Are you all set for Halloween?  I usually have all three of my children's costumes purchased by now.  Our 6 year old son says that he wants to just use the same werewolf costume he used last year because it was so cool and scary.  Our daughter has a whole slew of costumes to choose from in her closet.  In fact, she had a fairy costume all ready to wear to King Richard's Faire this year, but we saw a Maid Marian costume at Marshalls for a great price last week, so she'll be wearing that to the Renaissance faire instead.  Our 9 year old son wants to be a ninja this year, so that will be the only costume (plus accessories) I'll really need to buy this year.

What's new on my Zulily wishlist today?

1.  Blue & Black Gromm Beard Beanie - $14.99 (Originally $25)

2.  26" Berry & Leaf Wreath - $37.99 (Originally $90)

3.  Pumpkin Mosaic Hurricane Candleholder - $14.99 (Originally $27)

4.  Black Denim Bootcut Jeggings - $19.99 (Originally $45)

5.  Sydney Love Pewter Perforated Hobo and Cosmetic Bag - $54.99 (Originally $126)

6.  Teal Crinkle Lace Silk-Blend Infinity Scarf - $13.99 (Originally $39)

7.  Field of Dreams Loretta Apron - Women - $21.99 (Originally $35)

8.  Field of Dreams Jessica Apron - Kids - $13.99 (Originally $20)


If you haven't already, be sure to checkout my post "6 Tips for Shopping on Zulily"!  What's on your weekend wishlist from Zulily or somewhere else?

This Mom is Going Back-to-School with Fashions by Gaiam, J.Jill, Steve Madden, and Big Buddha!

Thank you to Gaiam for providing a complimentary product sample to facilitate this fashion article.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Back-to-school time is not just a time for children to start off new.  Moms and dads will likely be meeting teachers and other parents they have never met before.  First impressions are important.  Whatever you need to do to feel confident enough to put your best foot forward, whether it's to make those few gray hairs disappear or to add some new pieces to your fall wardrobe, I highly recommend it.

My own biggest insecurities would be my grays and my less-than-flat mid-section.  Because of the latter, I have found it so easy to fall into wearing the standard mom uniform where I come from, a hoodie and yoga pants, nearly every day.  Although I refuse to sacrifice comfort for fashion, as I did in my younger days, I have made up my mind to add some more style back into my daily life.

This easy-to-wear outfit includes the Wool Blend Draped Sweater by Gaiam, the Pure Jill Short-Sleeve Elliptical Pima Tee from J.Jill, the Side Seam Button Leggings by Steve Madden, the Jbowery Tote by Big Buddha, and lace-up boots by Shoes of Soul.

I have always found it difficult to layer clothing that was loose-fitting enough to hide my belly without looking frumpy, but I think I have discovered the secret.  For the bottom layer, the Elliptical Pima Tee starts off with a tailored neckline and shoulders, but continues to gradually get looser as we approach the hips. I love this tee (and now own it in 3 different colors) because I do not need to purchase two sizes up in order to camouflage my mid-section.

For the top layer, a drape cardigan is the way to go.  There are a variety of such cardigans available, but some look more tailored and elegant than others.  The Gaiam Wool Blend Draped Sweater will take you from day to night.  This merino wool blend jersey cardigan is lightweight, but surprisingly warm.  I had quite a difficult time choosing between the Purple and the Charcoal.

Both these pieces offer such freedom of movement, without the worry of anything hanging the wrong way or becoming untucked.  I love it!!!

I want to also say that this mom could never "go back to school" without a roomy handbag.  I not only love Big Buddha handbags because they usually have a little edge, I also love them because they are almost always faux leather.  This is perfect for fall and winter in New England because I do not have to worry about ruining the leather while carrying this bag in the rain and snow.  It is also big enough to house my winter gloves, as well as the hats and gloves of up to 3 children.

What do you do to prepare yourself for back-to-school as a parent?

Weekend Wishlist: Nautica, Despicable Me 2, Cashmere, Christmas in July Sale, and More!

 It's Friday!  That means I've been browsing the new sales on Zulily.  I love shopping on the weekends because I only pay shipping on my first order and get free shipping on everything else from Friday through midnight on Sunday.  Zulily is in the middle of a huge Christmas in July sale.  Since we just got over a massive heat wave, I welcome thoughts of the winter holidays.  I have already started my holiday gift shopping, but I still cannot seem to wrap my mind around Christmas decorations yet.  Maybe after we get past back-to-school season?  I did add one holiday-themed item to my wishlist though . . .

What's new on my Zulily wishlist today?

1.  Despicable Me Boys Blue ‘I Didn’t Do It’ Tee - $9.99 (Originally $16)

2.  Forte Cashmere Melon Fringe Shawl - $29.99 (Originally $66)

3.  Nautica Boys Gulf Blue Stripe Polo - $14.99 (Originally $37)

4.  Ositos Shoes Girls Gray Falisha Boot - $12.99 (Originally $30)

5.  Godinger Origami Swan Cheese Picks - Set of Six - $7.99 (Originally $12)

6.  Atomic9 Black Universal Headrest Tablet Mount - $11.99 (Originally $60)

7.  Iris Tyler Red Leather Zip Tote - $68.99 (Originally $118)

8.  Boston Warehouse Snowy Owls Platter - $12.99 (Originally $25)


If you haven't already, be sure to checkout my post "6 Tips for Shopping on Zulily"!  What's on your weekend wishlist from Zulily or somewhere else?

Weekend Wishlist: Iron Man Armor Hoodie, Silk Infinity Scarf, Microwave Rice Steamer, and More!

 It's Friday!  That means I've been browsing the new sales on Zulily.  I love shopping on the weekends because I only pay shipping on my first order and get free shipping on everything else from Friday through midnight on Sunday.  I am happy to report that I was able to purchase all my children's back-to-school supplies and most of the classroom donation requests in one order from OfficeMax.com, so we are in good shape in that department.  Now I just need to fill in their fall wardrobes because 2 of our 3 children sprouted again since summer vacation began.  I also still need to replace my older son's backpack and I think we may be all set for shoes.  How are you doing with your back-to-school shopping?

What's new on my Zulily wishlist today?

1.  Cutie Patootie Hot Pink Girly Owl Tee - $7.99 (Originally $14)

2.  Black Mirrors Silk Infinity Scarf - $21.99 (Originally $40)

3.  'Please No Soliciting' Vintage Sign - $5.99 (Originally $10)

4.  ClaireChase Distressed Brown Leather Messenger Satchel - $104.99 (Originally $379)

5.  Red Iron Man Hoodie - $19.99 (Originally $38)

6.  Green Lantern: The Greatest Stories Ever Told (Paperback Book) - $13.49 (Originally $20)

7.  Sistema Microwave Rice Steamer - $10.99 (Originally $30)

8.  Sistema Lunch Cube Container - Set of Two - $9.99 (Originally $14)


If you haven't already, be sure to checkout my post "6 Tips for Shopping on Zulily"!  What's on your weekend wishlist from Zulily or somewhere else?

Weekend Wishlist: Scrabble Tile Canvas Art, Sbyke (Scooter Bike), Ice Cream Sandwich Maker, and More!

It's Friday!  That means I've been browsing the new sales on Zulily.  I love shopping on the weekends because I only pay shipping on my first order and get free shipping on everything else from Friday through midnight on Sunday.  On holiday weekends, however, Zulily usually extends that free shipping deal for an extra day.  This weekend I only had to pay shipping once from Thursday through Sunday!

In addition to their regular sales events, Zulily is also having Blowout Sales in children's and women's clothing and shoes, as well as in accessories, kitchen, and home furnishings.  Yesterday, I ordered a boys Hurley hooded winter fleece jacket for $17.99.  I was having a tough time finding a hooded fleece jacket for my 9 year old son.  All of them for his age seem to have no hoods.  I'm so glad I ordered it right away because the jacket was gone already this morning.  I couldn't even find it on the website to share a link to it in this post.

What's new on my Zulily wishlist today?

1.  Norpro Ice Cream Sandwich Maker - $7.49 (Originally $11)

2.  Norpro Silicone Ice Pop Maker Set - $8.99 (Originally $14)

3.  'All You Need Is Love' Scrabble Tile Canvas Art - $17.99 (Originally $44)

4.  Yellow Polka Dot Cornhusk Tote - $12.99 (Originally $25)

5.  Silver 'Love' Beaded Leather Cord Bracelet - $16.99 (Originally $38)

6.  Boyz Wear Green & Navy Surf Shorts Set - Boys - $14.99 (Originally $40)

7.  Nannette White Floral Patch Tee Set - Infant, Toddler & Girls - $14.99 (Originally $40)

8.  Matte Black & Lime Green Sbyke - $172.99 (Originally $250)


If you haven't already, be sure to checkout my post "6 Tips for Shopping on Zulily"!  What's on your weekend wishlist from Zulily or somewhere else?

5 Things I Love About Segolene Paris Handbags (plus a Special Sale Event 6/26 to 6/29)

This post was written as part of an affiliate campaign for Zulily.  All opinions expressed are my own.

If you are not acquainted with Segolene Paris handbags, please allow me to introduce them to you.  Segolene Paris is an international designer brand of handbags that combine classic style with a touch of modern flair.  New and exciting handbag designs are introduced every season.  Usually you will find each bag in several classic colors along with one or two trendy ones.


5 reasons Segolene Paris bags appeal to this handbag addict . . . 

1.  Each bag has special detailing on it, usually involving hardware, that makes it unique from other handbags.

2.  Most of Segolene Paris handbags feature rolled handles (what I find most comfortable to carry on my shoulder, forearm, or in-hand).

3.  Segolene Paris bags are designed in interesting shapes, spanning from tall satchels to low profile east west handbags.

4.  Each bag has a very tailored look and makes a statement of quality.

5.  Segolene Paris handbags are much more affordable than they appear to be.

The non-leather handbags by Segolene Paris usually retail for approximately $139 to $149.  To me, that is affordable for a designer name brand handbag, so I was floored to hear that this brand is being featured on Zulily today through Saturday (6/29) for up to 65% off retail!  I shop the sales on Zulily daily and have yet to catch a Segolene Paris handbag sale event.  This is one event I will not be missing!

Shop 'n' Share: When is the Best Time to Shop for Fall Shoes and Handbags?

These items were purchased with our own funds and no compensation was received for sharing this shopping experience with our readers.

I think most women who are shopping for fashion on a budget try to find the best times of the year to shop.  For example, I have determined that the best time to shop for fall handbags, shoes, and accessories is at the end of the spring and the very beginning of summer.  This is usually more true for accessory items than for clothing items.  Once the Fourth of July passes, retailers will turn their focus towards fall fashions and back-to-school for the upcoming season.  There is a small window just prior to that when you can find some great buys from last fall's merchandise in the brands you love.

For example, I recently found these BEARPAW boots for $35.49 (Retail $99.00) and this Melie Bianco handbag for $52.99 (Retail $118.00).  It does take some patience and diligent searching, but it is well-worth the time spent when you find something you love at a great price.  Personally, I prefer to shop online because I can shop 5 retailers in the time it takes me to make the trip and browse through one local store.

Have you found some great deals on Fall items recently?  I'd love to hear about your finds!

Choosing Between a Trendy and a Classic Handbag

 It's been at least two or three years since the color yellow first began showing up everywhere in shoes and handbags.  In fact, the trend of the lovely soft yellow I was so enamored with has been replaced with a more golden mustard colored yellow this Spring.  Still, even after 2 years, I have not given up my search for the ultimate yellow handbag.

Very recently, the Key-Per Shopper by Fossil caught my eye in the Bright Multi print.  I love the multi-color trees and birds.  The problem is the reason that I love this bag is also the reason I am hesitant to buy it.  I have a tendency to buy trendy bags and either never use them or I carry them for a few months and they get added to my will-use-again-someday handbag collection.  Then there's the Yellow Fossil Explorer Tote, which has a classic style.  I really like this tote, but not as much as the Key-Per Shopper.  I think I would love it more if it had rolled handles (I have a soft spot for them), however I prefer the supple-looking Fossil leather on the Explorer Tote over printed coated canvas.

So, what is the solution?  Would you go with a trendy bag that you love right this moment or a classic bag that you like very much, but does not quite make your heart go pitter-patter?

What's that you say . . . get them both?  Well, I like the way you think!

I should mention that the KeyPer Shopper retails for $98, while the Explorer Tote retails for $238.  For many people, price would definitely be a factor in the decision-making process.  If it helps, you should know that Fossil.com offers Free Shipping both ways.  You can also search for promo codes for additional sales on watches and more at Fossil on coupon sites, such as MyDeals.com.  Even if price were not a factor for me, I would still always search for coupon codes before I checkout online.  It's just become a normal part of my online shopping routine.

My Photos: Cool Red Sox Party Favor

I have had a shortage of photos to share the past couple of weeks, but here is one from last weekend's annual Red Sox party at my cousin's house.  At the end of the night, she gave all the boys 8.5" x 11" Red Sox notebooks and all the girls got these really cool Red Sox handbags.  They were so cute, I wanted one!

(Click any photo to enlarge)

Click here to view all my past favorite photos.

Shop 'n' Share: The Best Remedy for Spring Fever is a New Handbag!

We have had some very Spring-like and even summer weather here in Boston the past few days.  It was not like this a couple of weeks ago.  In fact, we had snow on the ground at the beginning of March (you can see it in my photos).  Even though I dreaded the thought of Springtime allergies, I was still suffering from a mild case of Spring fever.

During one of those rare moments when I found myself with an extra half an hour to kill, I wandered into our local T.J.Maxx and came upon this Nicole Lee Bedelia Foliage Tote in Mint for just $39.99.  As you can see on the designer's website, this bag retails for $90.  I have been wanting a bag in either a mint green, pale yellow, or coral this Spring and now I can cross that off my wishlist!

I do not often buy bags that are not a classic style because I tend to use ultra-trendy bags for a month and then in the closet they go, but I loved the color of this bag, the structured shape, the size of the double handles, and the hardware detail of the studs, rings, and grommets.  I will most likely use this bag without the removable shoulder strap.  So far, the best price I could find online for this bag is $76 plus shipping on Amazon.com, so I am extremely happy with my find.

(Below is just a random cat photo for your enjoyment.)

I purchased this product with my own funds and did not receive compensation for sharing my shopping experience with my readers.

Review: Treat Mom (or Yourself) to a Gift From Vera Bradley

Having received my very first Vera Bradley bag four years ago for Mother's Day, I have always felt there was a special connection between the Vera Bradley brand and that special holiday.  Since then, because I enjoy receiving these beautiful handbags and accessories so much, I have made it a habit of giving Vera Bradley gifts for Mother's Day, birthdays, and Christmas.

Whether you are a casual or serious Vera Bradley collector, you probably try to stay on top of which prints are new for the season and which are being retired.  One of my favorite prints for Summer 2011 is Vera Bradley's Watercolor.  Right in tune with the trends this season of feminine florals and soft washed out colors, this print is one of the prettiest ever offered by Vera Bradley.

If you are trying to come up with the perfect Mother's Day gift this year, Vera Bradley offers great gift ideas to fit any budget.  One year, I picked up a Porcelain Mug with Cover for my children to give to their grandmother for just $12.00 and my mother was delighted.

Here are some more great gift ideas for mom . . .

The Get Carried Away Tote makes the perfect overnight bag or a diaper bag for families with multiple little ones.  A generous 18-1/4" x 15-1/2" x 7-1/2", this bag has four exterior pockets . . . one on each side and one on each end.  The interior walls each have 3 pockets plus two water-resistant vinyl lined pockets on each end.  Like a jacket, the top zipper can be left open or zipped up to protect the bag's contents.  This bag is roomy enough to fit everything you need to get away for a night or two and then some.  If mom is planning a vacation later this year or simply loves to travel in general, then this would be a thoughtful and functional gift.  This bag retails for $88 in the current prints and is available for 25% off in the retired prints.

The Travel Wallet by Vera Bradley is not just for travelling.  It is only about an inch in thickness, but has enough organizational pockets inside to hold your cash, cards, tickets, passport, driver's license, and more.

I love that this wallet has a hidden magnetic closure and looks like a slimline clutch.  If it had a wrist strap, it would be perfect for me to use every day.  This wallet is a new Vera Bradley item and is currently only available in the Spring/Summer 2011 prints for $42.00.

One item that I know would be an appreciated gift is a Vera Bradley Umbrella.  Not only do these umbrellas look like works of art when opened, they are functional as well.  Each measures 11" while closed and comes with a coordinating protective sleeve.

The reason why I love this umbrella so much is that there is one button to press to make the umbrella open and then close again.  No more pinched fingers!  My husband did not believe me when I told him about this function and made me demonstrate it for him.  It makes this umbrella well-worth the price of $32.00.  Currently this umbrella is available in a limited number of prints, but does include many of the new prints for this season.

As you can see, we are not lacking in rain around here.  I will be putting this umbrella to good use.  Now I just need to figure out how to manage a weekend getaway with my husband . . .

Visit your local Vera Bradley store, VeraBradley.com, and Vera Bradley on Facebook to learn more about the newest bags and accessories for Spring and Summer.


Thank you to Vera Bradley for providing complimentary product samples for us to base this review upon.