Jacket, Shell and Pants: St. John // Shoes: Stewart Weitzman // Jewelry: Vintage

Throughout the month of July, I will be sharing the wisdom of my grandmother, Monna, in a four part series called Mondays with Monna. My grandmother has the largest collection of shoes and handbags I have ever seen and has been a huge influence in my personal style. Monna always dresses her best and matches everything from shoes, to her handbag, and even her jewelry. This week I sat down with my grandmother, Monna, to learn more about her favorite shoes and handbags, and how she find quality accessories that will last for years.

Monna has somehow managed to fill five closets in her house with close to 200 shoes, and still has “out of season shoes” that she rotates in and out of the attic. Over the years, she has found unique ways to pair her shoes and handbags, in order to keep up with changing styles. Her favorite way to pair outfits, is to base them on colors and patterns. Of all the brands that she has purchased over the years, her favorites include Kate Spade, Judith Leiber, Neiman Marcus, Ferragamo, Cole Hahn, and Bottega.

“Some of the styles have come and gone, but designer shoes will rotate back into style because of the material, same thing with handbags. If the fabric and leather can last, so can the style.”

Monna’s favorite places to find quality shoes and handbags without breaking the bank are Neiman Marcus Last Call (Inwood Village location has the best selection), T.J. Maxx (Park Lane location) and Saks Off Fifth (Park Lane location). xoxo