Just admit it: getting that "it" bag really is the rite of passage for many a many fashion freaks. Don't try to fool yourself by saying you don't want a bag that every one has--you already know that no new-bag-on-the-block could ever put these clamor-worthy classics out of style, and there's a good reason for it. While shiny new styles are exciting, there just isn't that romance classic bags can offer. How many bags can really tell an alluring story, transcending time and trends with its revolutionary design? The list is a short one, to be sure.

Chanel Lambskin Classic Flap Bag (2.55)

$2675 by Chanel

True story: a girl dreamed of getting this bag for so long that on the day she saved up enough money to buy it, she hyperventilated before entering the store and nearly teared up when she took that shiny, black shopping bag in her hands. Launched by Coco on February of 1955 (hence the spy-like moniker of 2.55), you can find a little piece of the design darling in every detail: the back pocket is where she kept her tip money, the Bordeaux lining is her favorite color, and of course, the little zippered pocket where she kept her love letters. A bag isn't a bag until you have a romantic story or two to tell--this one definitely has 'em.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy 30

$690 by Louis Vuitton

What is it with iconic bags getting "makeovers"? Though this bag recently went through a rather rough reinvention (by an artist who shall remain nameless, at least in this blog), the Speedy has a utilitarian travel bag shape, which makes it perfect for any occasion you can throw at it--whether it be a little getaway or a cocktail party, the monogram will complement any color, fabric, or cut. Since introduced in the 30s, this bag has been later made in various lines and sizes, but the Monogram 30 (a medium one of the 4 sizes) is the daddy of them all. For a lot of people, when you think of a LV bag, you immediately think of this shape--a shape that stood the test of time, and made a luggage company the fashion house it is today (well, helped to anyway).

Gucci Jackie Hobo

$2,316.00 by Gucci at Bluefly

Back to the thing about iconic bags getting remade: this is a legend reincarnated. Again. Since its debut in the 1950s, the namesake of course is the former first lady and perhaps the first politic-fashion icon. Ms. Jackie Onassis was spotted toting this on her shoulder, and soon the bag was nicknamed in her honor. The round edge, fringe detail, and the oversized, slouchy shape is still present, but for this season, designer Frida Giannini pushed the size limit even more and added a strap that allows for a good sling action. How is it possible to make an icon better, you ask? Well, just leave it to Gucci.

Fendi Spy Bag

$1,493.99 by Fendi at Bluefly

Okay, maybe the most debatable of my picks, the Fendi Spy Bag has had its ups and downs--and it's no surprise, because the very details that make nay-sayers cringe are what makes it so original. The knot detailing on the handles maybe looks messy to some, maybe the weaving is too much. But remember, not all icons are universally loveable (I mean, please tell me that not EVERYONE is in love with Madonna) and just one look at this bag and you will instantly recognize it. Isn't that what it's all about? Besides, all it really needs is a cult following for it to be covet-worthy, and while one blogger may not be enough to make it a cult-hit, it definitely is a start.

Hermes Birkin 35

Price varies by style and availability

Ah, the Berkin. There's been songs written about it, and people have probably been murdered for it. It's pretty much virtually impossible to get your hands on one, what with the so-long-its-non-existent waiting list and the gargantuan price tag, possibly worth more than a lot of our lives (take no offense, it's the Birkin). Sure, you can try to find a reputable seller on eBay or get your hands on a reseller at Fashionphile, but can that really compare to walking into a store and dropping this big name? A tip to all icon bags: until you have a book written about you, you haven't really "made it" yet. Maybe one day, honey.

If you're anything like me, going to the gym is one of those things you want to make yourself want to do. As predictable as I am, I told myself that yeah, I might like doing this, as long as I have the gear to back me up. So I got collecting. What would make going to the gym feel more like showing off your fabulous finds instead of the utter torture it is? (okay, so I'm being bit melodramatic)

A perfect companion is this Leather Gym bag ($70) from Lululemon Athletica. They nixed the traditional gym-baggy look for something slouchy and chic that could go from sweat-sesh to hang-out without having to change your bag. But it of course has all the amenities of a functional gym bag, with a washable pouch inside for wet/dirty clothes, waterbottle and phone storage, and of course its a locker-friendly size. What more can you ask for, you say?

Well, it wouldn't hurt to have a super comfy zip-up--preferably not of the worn-to-death velour variety. I can never grow tired of the classic adidas track jacket. And yes, I do admit that the Stella McCartney Jacket is to-die-for-fabulous, I'm not about to literally kil myself over a $300 sports jacket! No matter how tempting.

So here's a thought: try wearing a men's jacket. I think the extra length and wiggle room makes it more comfy of course, but it will also play up the skin-tight workout duds underneath--snug tank tops and leggings.

I did an impulse cut today, and chopped off about 4 inches off my hair for a much-needed style pick me up. My heavy, brow-skimming bangs had to be balanced out, and so my hair is now a nice length just past my shoulder. Which got me excited about my hair again, and about a fall trend that I never really pursued.

These barrettes from Urban Outfitters ($16) would make my look instantly more polished, even if it's not done up. Now that my hair is shorter, the length wouldn't overwhelm an accessory like this either. And might I add that hair clips are a lot less intimidating than hair bands?

I like the peacock-looking feather, as well as the polka dot. I'd wear it with black jeans and a mary-jane flat, and even if I want to bum it out with a zip-up sweater, it would still look girly.

It's safe to say that wraps have definitely become sort of a staple, whether you wear it for function, style, or both. For us in SoCal, its a perfect way to warm up our usual tank-and-jeans ensemble. I just love how a colorful, fun scarf can totally transform an outfit. I personally love to wear it with a simple dress and a cardigan.

Celeb darling Tolani ($85) a go-to designer Hollywood fashionistas, from party girl Lohan to gossip girl Leighton, no stranger to the celeb studded scene. Another celeb fave is Sir Alistair Rai Rajah Love Scarf ($128) which I'm totally drooling over. Well, not just me but Drew Barrymore and Sienna Miller are among the followers. It has this exotic vibe that is luxurious, and its amazing that its an authentic prayer wrap hand-painted by Indian artisans. I think my heart is in India now since I watched "Slumdog Millionaire."

Speaking of slumdog, this yellow gauzy scarf from Urban Outfitters ($28) reminds me of the custom-designed piece that gorgeous Freida Pinto wore in the finale of the movie. Hmm, it looks like my next scarf-hunt may take me to boutiques that import Indian pieces?

So the holiday season has been here for a while now (a bit early though, don't ya think?), and many of you may have pulled your glittery sequin dress from the back of your closet to rock the parties this year. Or maybe you've been eyeing that glitterati clutch to tote around. Here's another idea: why don't you try keeping your outfit simple this holiday season, and bring all the drama to your neck?

I like this one from White House ($68) because it has all the glamour that you need for a holiday get together, but the Hematite finish makes it look vintage and unique--glitter with refinement. Pair it with a plain black dress or even a white T-shirt dress and leggings. Doll up your face with smokey eyes and you got people saying, "WOW. And she's not even trying."

And that's the whole point, right?

In Outside the Box, I'll give trends a second thought and think of ways to bend the trend.