crazy for kayu

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I'm so excited to finally share some photos of my shoot for KAYU - gorgeous bags with a mission.

I met KAYU's founder, Jamie Lim, via Twitter and as luck would have it she's originally from Malaysia. She was in town over the holidays to visit family and take care of business (her clutches are hand made in South East Asia) so we were able to meet in person and collaborate for her Spring look book photos and graphic design. We hit it off immediately and I was in total awe of her designs. She has somehow accomplished making the traditional artistry of weaving look completely modern and sexy. And as if good looks weren't enough, a portion of sales is donated to perform sight-restoring surgeries in India and to purchase backpacks and school supplies for children in Cambodia. Win-win.

I had a blast walking around KL together with only a bag full of clutches and a determination to "get the shot" despite the hot day and hungry mosquitoes. Felt like quite the urban-jungle warriors at the end of the day!

I can't finish writing this post without mentioning the stall owners at Chow Kit Market. They thought we were nuts every time we asked "can I put this bag here and take a photo?". Sure, crazy ladies...go right ahead. The strange looks were totally worth it as my fave shot is the trio of clutches on the Durian scale. It doesn't get any more Malaysian than that.

Shop KAYU at kayudesign.com and Shopbop.com

Trunk show

Last week, 3020 Designer Resale in Santa Monica hosted the first ever ANAMU trunk show. Between  introducing the new GO NATIVE collection* of clutches and jewelry, mingling with old and new friends, and seeing happy customers, the event couldn't have gone any better.

3020's very own Gina and Jessica were beyond hospitable and supportive...I mean, check out the cute sign they made! So sweet.

Their neighbor, actor (and sculptor) Paul Sorvino stopped by while we were getting ready and ended up staying the entire time. He just couldn't leave when every few minutes a new woman walked into the room!

I'm so thankful to Gina and Jessica for the opportunity to share ANAMU in such a great setting. Thank you to everyone who came out!!!!

*Some items sold but remaining one-of-a-kind GO NATIVE clutches and cuffs will be online soon!

Pick of the Week: Gold and Studded

Walked by a beautiful gold leaf Art Deco door on Spring St. today and I thought "how great would this be for a photo shoot!" - especially for clutches like the Gilded Age I.

This ANAMU clutch is made from a shawl purchased in a vintage shop in Cape Town, South Africa. I'm a big fan of gold so I instantly fell in love with the sparkly brocade pattern. Metal pyramid studs adorning the corners add some jazz to the mix that make it a perfect clutch for a glam night out.

SALE: 25% off ANAMU through February 10th!

Because you are beautiful and unique.

Fellas, this is what you tell your lady

Ladies, this is what you tell yourself

Indulge a little this Valentine's Day.

To redeem this offer, go to www.anamu.etsy.com and note VDAY in "message to seller" at checkout. Discount will be applied after full payment is received.