Over the holidays, I broke down and finally gave in. Feeling under the weather and quarantined to my Manhattan diggs, I decided it was time to unwind with something other than a fashion magazine. I wanted to relax with a light read and many times I was getting the same suggested reading over and over again: The Twilight Saga. As I considered this as reading material I looked over at my copy of the December issue of Harper’s Bazaar that was on my coffee table. Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, who graced the glossy’s cover, stared back at me looking exquisite. So before I changed my mind, I hit the “order now” button and anxiously waited for my copy of Twilight to arrive in my mailbox. Suffice it to say, I finished the book in four days, moved through the rest of the series and couldn’t deny the powerful influence its phenomenon has had on fashion.

Riding on the gothic wave, which was largely influenced by the dark vampire love story’s success, the Fall 2009 runways dripped with inspiration ranging from oil slick blacks, rich hues of crimson and studs galore. Musical artists such as Lady Gaga and Jay-Z have echoed gothic and rocker-chic inspirations as shown in their stage performance, videos and personal style. Our own Launch Collection, which was designed after a trip taken to Barcelona, Spain, was deeply inspired by the glorious gothic art and architecture which paved every cobblestone street. Very The Count of Monte Cristo.

In honor of this inspiration, we have complied a few of our favorite pieces which offer a little bit of edge and a whole lot of style.

I've talked about liquid leggings and tights in my previous posts, so we all know my love for these leg warmers. These half- ripped leggings by David Lerner add rocker chic to any ensemble

This Marc Jacobs leather biker jacket embellished with zippers stands out in a rich berry hue

It's all in the details with our Hobo Nouveau. Shown in Caviar, this spacious silhouette is all about the custom gold tone hardware which takes ordinary studs to the next level. Sophistication with a touch of edge, all in one handbag. Sold exclusively at www.nylanoor.com

The perfect juxtaposition- sweet hearts and prickly spikes

Feminine lace drapes over this black Alexander Wang mini dress, creating a soft look

The studded look goes from standard to special. Custom hardware in silver adds refined whimsy. Plentiful zippers and pockets make this bag wearable. Supple leather in a rich crimson hue guarantees that this bag not only stands apart, but also wears better with time. Sold exclusively at www.nylanoor.com

Hugs and Handbags,

Nyla Noor

It is no secret that our love for Lady Gaga at Nyla Noor headquarters grows with each song, performance or outfit this artist rocks. She manages to top herself each time and successfully redefines the words performance artist. The best part is she has the voice to back it up- The Fame Monster is phenomenal! We are proud to say that she hails from White Plains, NY- down the street from where we grew up! She makes Westchester proud!

Take a look at the video which captures the making of the January cover of Elle magazine. I spy McQueen!

Hugs and Handbags,

Nyla Noor