When I saw this bag in the window of Eurasian Interiors (1861 Union Street, San Francisco, CA., 415-775-1610) I couldn’t believe it. The neighborhood I live in is beautiful, but it can hardly be called edgy. I carried this photograph with me all day, and every time I looked at it I started cracking up. I was the crazy lady on the bus. No joke.

Getting this shot was one of those experiences that reminds me that I never know where I’ll find something I want to photograph. My neighborhood has many charms–that’s why I live here, after all–but people are not, um, let’s say…as adventurous with their style as they are in their neighborhoods. As it happens, my job is a ten-minute walk away from my apartment, which is great for lifestyle but not that great for streetstyle. So when I can’t spend time combing other neighborhoods, I’m frustrated. Then, on Saturday, as I was walking to catch the bus to Hayes Valley, a hip little neighborhood near the symphony and the ballet and City Hall, I saw this girl. I thought, “Oooo, penny loafers and polka dots,” and asked her to stop. She had a lovely French accent. I was two blocks from my place. So there.

I’ve been seeing some of these silk cord/charm combination bracelets around lately and I dig them. In general, I’ve noticed a trend toward smaller, delicate wristwear. While I enjoy jewelry that looks like a violent weapon, I do agree with the maxim that variety is the spice of life. And sporting an accessory that also wards away the evil eye really kills two birds with one stone. You can’t really do much better than that.