Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Speedy ($750 – $825) - It’s classic. It’s iconic. It comes in several sizes. And, yes, it’s been knocked off a million times. But the authentic one is a great investment piece. You can wear it with jeans or a little black dress. This little number will always add an element of sophistication to your ensemble.

Christian Louboutin Black Pump Shoes ($775) – Simple, classic and inspirational – you’ll keep your CL black pumps forever. Wear to work or on date night. They go with every occasion and make you look and feel like a million bucks.

Chanel Quilted Flap Shoulder Bag ($2,600) – Also knocked off a million times over, the real deal surpasses replicas. It will never go out of style and you’ll want to wear it with everything. If you could afford both, I say the Louis Vuitton Speedy bag is your day bag and Chanel’s Quilted Flap Shoulder Bag is your evening one. Beyond that, you just don’t need any other handbags (unless you’re bag-addicted like me).

The ignorance of this normally wise fashionista has inspired me to show him, you, the world, what Vegas Style really looks like. Hey, I’m not stupid. I see what you see – women squeezing in cheap, shiny dresses that are two sizes too small, only to practically fall out of them as they grind on the dance floor. And I, too, have noticed the men who think it’s acceptable to wear cargo shorts to a nightclub. But these people are NOT from Las Vegas. They’re tourists, from other states and even other countries. And while we residents value their patronage and company, tourists are not a valid representation of Las Vegas fashion and style.

The truth is that Vegas Style is eclectic – as diverse as our population. Some women love a boho or even cute-quirky look; others love retro style. Then there are those of us (myself included) who love loads of makeup, bright colors and trendy styles. As for the men, some are into geek chic; some have a hipster sense. And still other men have an appreciation for urban fashion. My husband, and men like him, enjoy Euro style mixed with American classic design. One thing that all of us have in common: attitude. Vegas Style is about confidence and self-expression.

So, Robert Verdi, and every other human being on this earth who has the WRONG impression of true Vegas Style, I give you photographic evidence: this is what we Las Vegas locals really look and dress like. The next time you want to use a hashtag like #vegas-style, do it respectfully, wisely and with a deeper understanding of what Vegas style really is. Peruse these photos of Las Vegas residents, and educate your mind.

(Photo credit: AngelinaGalindo.com; Style: Leather-Couture.com by designer Jessica Galindo.)

(Photo credit: Imagine Studios.)

(Photo credit: © Rachael Coleman Thompson.)

(Photo credit: HBP Las Vegas.)

I consider myself a label whore, but even I can spot when something really expensive is also really stupid. Here are my picks for expensive stupid fashion and notes as to why I think they’re dumb.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Transparent Handbags ($1800-$3600): Seriously? See-thru? How many of you ladies keep a neat handbag? I mean, c’mon, Vuitton! The last time I carried a transparent bag I was working retail and it was corporate’s way of making sure we weren’t stealing merchandise. The sheer fashion trend is haute, but not in the form of a handbag.

Christian Louboutin Paw Pumps ($5000): I truly believe CL came up with these shoes to make fun of the 1% who can afford to buy them and are dumb enough to wear them. They have to be a joke, right? I mean, they HAVE to be. Oh, please tell me that CL is just a big ol’ mean girl like me and that these shoes were nothing more than a prank on rich ladies.

Chanel Cabas Eté ($???): WTF? A canvas Chanel tote bag that I can take to the beach? Oh, really? And how easy is it going to be for criminals to knock off this one? Seriously. I’m so disappointed that this is the best Karl Lagerfeld could come up with in order to create a luxury collection at a lower price point. But how much lower is it going to be actually? I’m skeptical. Besides all that, there is absolutely nothing luxurious about faded canvas, even if it does say Chanel.

Key Joseph Ribkoff pieces that Kaeppeler will be wearing include one-shoulder silhouettes, bold floral and animal prints, color-blocked dresses, striped and polka dot monochromatic pieces, shirt dresses and retro-inspired sheaths. The label’s intent is to build Miss America’s wardrobe with easy-to-wear pieces that are stylish and flawless. Based in Montreal, Canada, Joseph Ribkoff is one of the country’s most successful fashion exporters with more than 300-piece seasonal collections offered in sizes 2 to 20 at prices ranging from $150 to $300. To find a Joseph Ribkoff location in North America, call 1.800. 361.1839.

Featured Joseph Ribkoff Fashion:
On Kaeppeler above: Printed one-shoulder tunic ($140) and basic black leggings ($90).
First row (left to right): Sleeveless blue dress ($301), Red dress ($198), Floral tunic ($180).
Second row (left to right): Zebra print dress ($200), Purple cocktail dress with bow ($270), Red dress ($205).