DIY: Reconstructed Old Purse

Remember that American Apparel leather carry-all pouch I showed you while ago?  While I still am eager to buy one, I know in the back of my mind a simple leather pouch with a zipper is so not worth the $50-$60 they're asking for it.  I was set on making my own from some faux leather and zipper I bought online...and failed miserably.  It seems so simple (and it is) but I don't have a real sewing machine, just a little hand held one that doesn't sew through leather very well.  So...I had the genius idea of grabbing one of my old purses that I never use anymore, and reconstructing that into my very own cotton carry-all pouch.  What's even better is that the zipper is already on the bag, all I had to do was flip it inside out and sew it into a rectangle shape and VOILÁ!  A printed, not plain, pouch clutch!
Here are some before and after photos:

I loved the print of this purse and it already had a zipper...so this was the perfect purse to use

First, I cut off the straps

This odd half circle shape didn't work well, so I turned it inside out and sewed it into a smaller rectangle shape

And now it looks like this!

TADA!

Bright and Bold

Found this editorial in Teen Vogue's May 2011 issue photographed by Richard Burbridge.  I love how the models' heads are cropped out to make all the bold and colorful accessories the center of attention.  My favorite is definitely the third page, so graphic!  Oh yea, can I have those Prada wedges on the first page? I'm obsessed.

Style Scrapbook for Kipling Camera Bag

I have been searching EVERYWHERE for the perfect camera bag that is small enough for just my camera (and a few batteries), but is also stylish.  I've seen some attempts, but not quite what I'm looking for.  Finally...THE PERFECT CAMERA BAG.  Andy of StyleScrapbook designed this super cute camera bag, specifically for the stylish bloggers who are constantly carrying around their DSLR cameras, with Kipling.  I wanted to grab this bag so bad, but they apparently sold out within 24 hours and they weren't available in the United States :( BUT, she's coming out with a new collection soon to be sold worldwide! I'll definitely be keeping my eyes out for this one!

All Photos from StyleScrapbook.com