One of the trends I have been seeing lately is people taking existing work and re-utilizing it in new and exciting ways. A great example is Candace K, a California-based designer who works with Chinese gambling chips. The chips are antiques, delicate engraved mother of pearl pieces which Candace K surrounds with gems and strings on leather, silver, gold or beaded necklaces. The pieces start at around $400 but cost as much as $20,000 depending on the other materials used. The chips themselves each have their own story …

It looks like Target isn’t the only company out recruiting higher-end designers to attract a broader spectrum of consumers to their normally mid-range products. Nanette Lepore teamed up with Keds to put together a line of stylish, casual shoes and sandals for summer. The shoes are all fun, with whimsical prints that bear Lepore’s signature touch, and with the comfort (and price) of the casual shoe brand. Pictured are the Nanette Lepore Script Print Sandals, which have a feminine print, a medium-size bow and the hint of a heel. …

Lipstick red and with a print that would match any of Dolce and Gabbana’s animal print handbags, Christian Louboutin’s Sabotage Haircalf Mules are very sexy shoes for summer. The vampy heels look like something a pinup girl would wear, but are very well made and comfortable. The haircalf upper is lined with soft leather and the insole is padded. Pair with a toned down skirt or pants so you don’t take your outfit too over-the-top. They’re on preorder, but will ship in May. Price: $620.

The Rachel Canvas Tote is a part of Isabella Fiore’s aptly named “Cute as a Button” collection. The bag is rounded and has an easy, vintage feel to it, thanks to the earth-tone canvas sides and leather trim, antiqued brass hardware and some large, decorative wooden buttons. Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of the bar is the circular top handle, which is covered in supple leather, although for practical purposes the bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap, as well. The lining is cotton and the bag measures 11″H …

A bag that is full of holes, whether they are crocheted or punched in leather, as they are in the Jean Paul Gaultier Perforated Shopper, is just not going to pass muster in winter. Once spring rolls around, however, the shoe is on the other foot and suddenly holey bags look casual, funky and lightweight – perfect for warm weather. This shopper has spade, diamond, heart, and club cutouts all over it and is topped with rolled leather handles. The zip top has a contrasting red leather pull, which matches perfectly with the …