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	By Donn Swaby

IF THE PURSE FITS...

If you're looking to find accessories that will add a touch of flare to your life, you need to check out Tracey Vest's purses. This innovative California native who was recently featured in Essence Magazine, has created a colorful collection of purses covered in feathers and faux fur that are sure to get attention, no matter where the place. Ms. Vest has even attributed a name to each design; Patty proudly displays Peacock feathers, Eva seductively sports faux fur, and Alex is lovingly adorned with coque feathers). Shoppers can pick the "woman" that best compliments their own personalities.

Vest has been altering garments and designing clothes since junior high school. "If I could not find it or afford it I would make it." She found inspiration in the different purses her grandmothers and other female relatives would carry each day. As for the feathers, Vest, a fan of "old movies and fancy functions", says it was seeing feather boas and thinking "how pretty and fun. A person usually doesn't get a lot of opportunities to wear a feather boa, if ever."

"A woman who owns one of my purses is making the statement, "Look at me!" says Vest, who also designs, shoes, hair accessories, and other garments and is planning to expand her line. The many every day looks one can create with one of Vest's purses makes them appealingly practical. "You don't have to wait for a formal occasion to have a little glamour," she says, adding that her purses can transform a simple dress or a pair of jeans into "instant glamour." Plus the purses can be "great ice breakers and conversation pieces."

Vest's purses can be purchased on line and in stores, including Tres Jolie in Beverly Hills, California. When asked how people react to her designs, Vest replies, "One of my stores said they make people smile."

	Purses by Tracey Vest www.traceyvest.com
Tres Jolie 181 S. Beverly Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Moda 7513 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069	Fito 2801 Main Street Santa Monica, CA 90405       We encourage local Southern California Businesses to Advertise here and for a limited time, we are offering 30 days free.	Twist 2601 7thStreet Santa Monica, CA 90405 The Closet 175 Newbury Street Boston, MA 02116 617 536-1919

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