OK, we’ve caught our breath. Now, to Maurice’s.

While Bliss hasn’t exactly ignored the Auburn Mall clothier, it’s never whispered our name and enticed us to return again and again like some others. I think, honestly, we’ve given it a couple passes and decided it was Just Not Us. Without revealing too much, we are neither size 3 nor fans of the Beibs.

Then they sent out a note to the shopping world saying, basically, “We carry a new line by someone from ‘Project Runway!'”

Maurice’s knows how to grab Bag Lady’s attention.

The new line by Christopher Straub is “in the hometown-friendly range of $12 to $89.”

What does it say that I have to mentally squint to remember which “Project” Runway contestant he was? Well, that it’s been three years since his season aired, that he came in fifth and that Bag Lady has a life. Also that I’m getting old and now need to write things as simple as “milk” on my grocery list. But we’ll focus on the fabulous, busy life part.

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According to a very nice clerk, some Maurice’s got Christopher’s line of clothes and some accessories. The Auburn store — shocker — is in the latter group. But what the heck. It got me here, and now you’re here, and shall we go inside?

* Christopher Straub earrings and bracelets, $14 each

Pretty, beaded styles, faceted at odd angles for a little extra glint. They’re not My Oh My but they’re less expensive than I would have guessed in a game of Name That Price. Is that very hometown-friendly of me to say? I hope so.

* Christopher Straub small box purse, $24

Dipped in maroon and silver sequins. Almost as good as being dipped in chocolate.

* Tank tops, various prices

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The discovery of the day: Turns out, Maurice’s is headquarters for the any style, any age cami. Something for under a jacket at work? Check. Clingy? Check. Something that graces over lumps and bumps? Check. Bag Lady scooped up a pretty tank in blue, rouched and trimmed in lace for Good-Buy Girl on sale for $12. It’s a New Year’s Eve must-stop for anyone looking to update their wardrobe without breaking a budget. And you can probably wear it in the office the next week.

* Feather earrings, $10

Maroon feathers dangling from black and gold beads. A modest way to experiment with that trend. The feather trend, not the maroon trend. Maroon’s always been aces in our book.

* Black slippers, $9

From a distance, they look like senior slippers: Wide cap across the toe, flat bottom, often seen shuffling. But. These toes are covered in tiny black sequins and the faux-fur lining is incredibly soft. How Bag Lady hopes to shuffle into her sunset. Comfortably, yes, but in style.

* Rosette change purse, $8

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From fans of the Beibs to Barry (Manilow). It’s that ageless.

* Faux-leopard fur muff ($6) and faux-leopard fur scarf ($9)

Where is all the world’s faux-leopard fur made? And could that production be moved into Bates Mill No. 5? The machines inside purring, the sidewalks outside dusted with bits of orange, slightly less orange and black furry bits. I can see it now.

* I Am Stunning black pants, $44

Fabric has a slight stretch, comes with a wide, demurely glittered belt.

Pair with:

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* “Be Amazing” perfume by Christopher Straub, 3.4 oz., $20

It’s almost self-esteem overload. Almost, but not quite. Bag Lady says go for it, girl.

Best find: Wine-shaped, wine-sized leopard-print cutting board, $2.99

Originally $14. Technically, the tag calls it a “cheese server” on “high quality tempered glass,” but I see no reason why one has to, er, cut the cheese. It’s far too beautiful. Going to a New Year’s Eve bash? Bring this for the hostess. She’ll kiss you for it.

Think twice: Black rouched, heavily bejeweled on the shoulder, one-shoulder tank, $29

I mean, ick, party of one.

Note to readers:

We’ll still be back Friday with a New Year’s Eve edition of Bliss! Have a resolution you’re willing to share? Drop us a line.

Bag Lady’s true identity is protected by a pair of stylish, sweater-wearing Doberman pinschers (who would bark furiously at a leopard behind a closed door) and the Customer Service counter at the Sun Journal. You can reach her at baglady@sunjournal.com.

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