“I like my money right where I can see it…hanging in my closet.”

Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw made this declaration in episode 75, titled “Market to Market.” When she did, Sarah Jessica Parker’s famous and familiar character did more that just utter a clever quip. She hit upon a very important point:

There exists an intriguing relationship between the world of finance and the many houses of fashion that has, and always will be, an influential cultural force.

Although the nation may currently be in financial crisis, the world of fashion is nevertheless flourishing. This reality was evident during this year’s Fashion Week in New York City.

Just like Wall Street’s day-to-day activities that send constant ripples and waves throughout the city, this ongoing parade of style can always be felt everywhere, from the upper east side to Tribeca. This year, one designer in particular made quite a splash during the annual festivities.

Her name is Elaine Turner.

Move over Louis, Gucci, and Dior — this southern vixen is about to dethrone the old kings of designer accessories and crown herself as queen. Her signature vibrant pink that accents her creations is as distinct as Christian Louboutin’s red soles — however, that is only one reason why her handbags and newly launched shoe collection make the must-have list this season.

With a fabulous New York showroom decked out in white and pink, her September 10th “Booze + Shoes” event was a classy affair. With her collections elegantly arranged and the designer looking stunning, guests arrived at the locale situated at 320 Fifth Avenue in Suite 1102 to view the goodies and enjoy refreshing cocktails.

Fortunate to get acquainted with the designer the evening prior to this event, I arrived at Fifth Avenue’s luxurious Carlton Hotel around 8:30 pm. As the establishment of choice for a small, informal gathering, the lounge area was dimly lit and the venue was adorned in old world décor.  This proved to be the perfect setting to meet and greet established designer and Texas native Elaine Turner.

Possessing high energy and a down-to-earth personality, Elaine Turner is both chic and entertaining. Over wine and cocktails, time flew by unnoticed as a laid-back conversation flowed throughout the evening. After spending some time with the designer and then seeing her work, it is safe to say that sophistication now has a whole new meaning.

Southern charm is now southern chic, and by “southern,” think destinations like South Beach and the South of France. With a style this sizzling, every day can feel like a vacation and, according to Elaine, that is the goal.

“It’s about traveling to faraway places and expressing your individuality through your accessories.”

After all, accessories are not only significant in the world of fashion, but in everyday life as well. Handbags carry our most treasured possessions, while shoes are like chicken soup for the fashionista’s sole.

…Or anyone’s sole, for that matter, since most people do invest in footwear at some point in their lifetimes.

In economic times such as these, it might seem frivolous to focus on the latest in fashion, but alas, you can now be guilt-free. The wearable art form that is fashion is also one of the driving forces in the world market place.

Designers harness a unique financial power that is often overlooked and arguably should be taken more seriously. By creating desirable items, they impact trade markets and influence the shopping habits of millions.

In the end, people willingly spend top dollar on clothes, shoes and accessories, thus making fashion purchases mini-investments. While you’re expanding your wardrobe, you can even get a little dose of history, since fashion is and always has been a manifestation of culture and its influences. Through fashion, the link between the past and the present is evident and can be seen in our everyday wear.

When you get dressed in the a.m. (or p.m., depending on your lifestyle), you are literally wearing history. Turner’s collections are infused with variations of style that have historical roots in time and cultural links to a multitude of regions.

“For Spring 2009, we were inspired by destination–focused colors, prints, and materials,” she said. “Think Greco-Roman sandals and raffia-covered wedges to patent-trimmed basketweave totes and ’70s-inspired print handbags.”

Her shoe collection has also been launched and is now a part of the mix.

Available at Nordstrom stores nationwide, you can shop online here.

Now you know where to go to get the best handbags and shoes for next season…if only the answer to economic relief were just a click away.

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