In the Jungle

I was taking a look back through Style.com‘s Fall 2010 Accessory Report just to see if the predictions are as valuable as I thought–and guess what? Candy Pratts Price was right on the money with her choices. We’ve been featuring snakeskin bags all week on Portero.com, so her “Exotic Skins” category is really continuing to hit home for me.

While exotics like python, lizard or crocodile might not be easy on the wallet, they are extremely durable and will last a lifetime if properly cared for.  Basically, these materials need to stay nourished in order to prevent drying, cracking or splitting. Here are some general rules of thumb:

-Never use household chemicals or alcohol to clean leather skins

-Snakeskin should always be cleaned in the direction of the scales

-Mink oil can be used on matte finishes of alligator/crocodile, but you should avoid the stitching when applying

-Keep out of extreme light, heat and wet conditions

One of my favorites currently for sale is the fabulous vintage Chanel Crocodile shoulder bag shown above. Interested in more exotic skins? Click here to shop.

Festival Chic

I had the chance to attend the Coachella festival just outside of Palm Springs earlier this year, and it was definitely a fantastic place for people-watching. The London version–Glastonbury–was this past weekend and it looks like the same grungy/boho/hipster look was again in full effect. Besides the ubiquitous jean short-shorts, celebs like Emma Watson (left) and Sienna Miller were spotted in multiple bracelets, long-strapped bags (like Emma’s LV) and fabulous belts.

Get a similar funky festival look with some of my favorites:

Carolina Bucci 18-karat gold and black silk bracelet

Louis Vuitton Ebene Damier Canvas camera bag

Gianni Versace Medusa Medallion belt

Vintage Mexican silver cuff

Fendi logo Messenger bag