the classics

Sweater: J.Crew; Skirt: Balenciaga (love this similar marble print skirt here); Bag: Chanel thanks to Portero's "Find It" service; Shoes: Christian Louboutin; Sunglasses: Celine; Lips: Stila "Beso"

This past weekend, someone asked me just how long I had been blogging. An awkward pause followed because I honestly couldn't remember and soon after I had to do a bit of digging on Blogger to figure it out (answer: coming up on five years, eep!). 

During my archive search, I stumbled upon a slew of old outfit posts, some good, some silly and some I wish I could forget (but the internet won't let me, ha, you cruel mistress, you!). There were a lot of experiments (don't regret 'em!), a lot of shoddy DIYs (I'm just awful at DIY and I've finally accepted it) and a lot of fine tuning for what I think is slowly becoming my true style today. I now know what works on my body (and what doesn't!), what I feel best in and what I ultimately want to start investing in since I know I'll have it for years to come. Don't get me wrong, I  do love me a fast trend from time to time (peplum, anyone?) but as I get older, I'm now trying to make more conscious and intentional decisions when it comes to pieces that have staying power. True classics. 

As a frequent Chanel bag borrower, long time admirer but never an owner ('always a bridesmaid'...yadda yadda), I've been on a mad hunt for the perfect starter Chanel bag. I knew I wanted something vintage, classic and timeless, perhaps even a bit understated and just right for transitioning from day to evening. Luckily, the folks over at Portero are the bag experts and via their "Find It" service, they introduced me to a small lineup of quilted beauties, each more beautiful than the next. You may remember, I mentioned in this post I was actually more drawn to a 2.55 design, but when Portero suggested this slightly smaller, full flap lambskin one, I loved how refreshing it looked. #GameOver  

It's funny -- I always claim to be more of a shoe gal, but this recent turn of events may shake things up a bit. :) Oh, and if you're on the hunt for a bag yourself, check our Portero's video here as to what makes a classic bag, a classic. 

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

I partnered with Portero for this post. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting posts that keep This Time Tomorrow's doors open.