Valentino Histoire Belted Tote

I often wonder who photographs handbags for the web because, frankly, I'm fairly certain I could do a much better job. The photos just do not do justice to the remarkable style and sophistication of the majority of designer handbags. For instance, the Valentino Histoire Belted Tote might be the sort of bag you'd easily overlook. That would be a pity because it's such a gorgeous, well-appointed tote. Granted, Valentino has been churning out some questionable designs as of late. Their obsession with roses is bordering on the ridiculous, and, yet, this stylish tote manages to wash away the sting of those other mistakes.

The Histoire Belted Tote features the familiar "braiding" design of its' other Histoire counterparts, but in a more subdued fashion. The effect is casual elegance at its' best. In person, this baby begs to be carried. It managed to make my Old Navy t-shirt and 4 yr old Hilfiger jeans look chic. Now a bag that can accomplish that seemingly impossible task is bank in my book. I can't recommend it enough. The belted cinch top is visually appealing but not to the point of distraction. It's quite roomy (17 x 15 x 6) and features two interior compartments separated by a zippered center pocket as well as a zippered compartment for smaller items. I know many of you are still weary of patent leather (why?!?), but, trust me, you'll squeeze every penny of the steep $1895 price tag out of this bag. Now if I could just get a job as the web handbag photographer for Neiman Marcus, I'm sure I could boost their sales and help the economy along as well.

Valentino Histoire Belted Tote available in black and purple patent leather for $1895 via Neiman Marcus

Maison Martin Margiela Pockets Clutch

Now I know what a couple of coin purses glued to a wallet would look like - hell. Thanks to Maison Martin Margiela (which I'm usually pleased with) we now have the ultimate clutch. NOT! This thing is ugly, incomprehensible and about as fashion-forward as plaid retainers (don't laugh, I've seen them!). Although this over-priced dud is tauted as a clutch, I can't imagine the woman who'd be caught dead with it for a night out on the town. I'd prefer to douse it with gasoline, set it on fire and spread its' ashes to the four corners of the Earth.

If you must know more about it, the Maison Martin Margiela Pockets Clutch has two coin purses attached to the outside of a wallet with snap closure and features several interior credit card slots, zippered pocket and money slits. It looks cheap, but, unfortunately, it's not. You can pre-order this silver hag bag for $795, but I'd prefer you wouldn't. Do as I say, pretty please?!?

Maison Martin Margiela Pockets Clutch: pre-order via Saks

Louis, Marc and Madonna Make Fashion History

Photos: Louis Vuitton
This is a handbag blog so our main concern should be, well, handbags. Every now and then, though, I feel the need to point out something which deserves your attention (and, yes, it is handbag related). Three icons, Madonna, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton, have come together and made advertising history. The Material Girl is the face of French fashion label Louis Vuitton's Spring/Summer '09 collection ad campaign. Jacobs, LV's creative director, expressed a lifelong interest in working with Madge and felt that she and Louis were a match made in heaven. Judging from these shots taken of Madonna clad in head-to-toe LV and sporting some seriously fierce handbags, Jacobs was right on the money. You can view the making of this historic campaign on Louis Vuitton's website. Don't pass up the chance to see Madge in her element as well as offering her opinion on everything from what she should wear to Jacobs' "hotness".

Coach Tattersall Graffiti Domed Satchel

Oh no! It seems Coach is going down the same path that ended up degrading Dooney & Bourke into a glorified teeny bopper handbag label. I was very impressed with the direction Coach had taken over the past couple of years and considered it one of the better labels in the moderately-priced range (except for their over $1000 bags that defy logic). Then they go and design something like this! Except for its' classic shape and practical storage features, the Coach Tattersall Graffiti Domed Satchel is all wrong. I mean WRONG! The tragic graffiti-print fabric exterior and tacky metallic leather trim make for one stunted handbag. Plus it's priced at $498. Are they kidding me? I wouldn't pay 5 pennies for this thing let alone $500. My advice to the design team at Coach is to stick to classic beauties such as the Penelope, Spectator and Madison collections and leave the ridiculous hag bags to D & B or Juicy Couture.

Coach Tattersall Graffiti Domed Satchel - $498 via Coach's website

Best Designer Handbags of 2008

Best of 2008
I'm fairly certain handbag designers don't particularly care whether I think their bags are good or not, but I hope at least some of my readers value my opinion and consider it more than just that. I'm not just a handbag lover and collector, I'm also a critic. By critic I mean I look at every bag and judge it on its' own merits as well as how it fits into today's market. Not only are aesthetics important when I recommend a bag, but pricing is also a pivotal factor I take into account when I browse the web and scour the stores for the latest trends. In the end, my decisions are a mixture of brains and gut instincts. That's how I buy and collect my own handbags. It's always worked for me, and I'm sticking to my formula because "If it ain't broke...". Now that 2008 is behind us, I've had time to think about the bags that defined the year - the best of the best. I narrowed my picks down to two very beautiful and stylish bags which are as different as night and day.

My first pick is the YSL Majorelle Bag. It's no secret YSL is my favorite designer handbag label. The Majorelle embodies all that is great about this iconic label. Classic, sophisticated and exquisite handbags are what women have come to expect from YSL. Although there was some debate over whether or not the Majorelle looked a bit too much like a "granny bag", I believe the simple design of the Majorelle only serves to enhance the colors and finishes that YSL can come up with.

My second pick, the MARC by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Lil Riz Hobo, is a more inexpensive option but nonetheless worthy of praise. If YSL is my favorite high-end designer handbag label, then MARC by Marc Jacobs is my favorite moderately-priced designer handbag label. Their handbag collections are filled with fabulous and stylish bags, and the Dr. Q Lil Riz Hobo is a perfect example of why this label is so successful. Although MARC is targeted for a more young, hip crowd, the overall simplicity and quality craftsmanship of their designs appeal to women well into their 40s and 50s (my last trip to Nordstrom was proof of that). The Lil Riz is a fine hobo with its' relaxed shape, sturdy top handle and well-appointed interior. The ample 13.5 x 11.5 x 3.5 size makes it a great choice for a day bag, but its' chic look will work in the evening as well.

While 2008 is over, it doesn't mean the standout bags of the year should be forgotten. Both these styles are very much available, and I recommend them with the same enthusiasm as I did last year. The YSL Majorelle Bag in purple patent leather is on sale at Overstock.com reduced from $1395 to $1099. The MARC by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Lil Riz Hobo is available in both light brown and a fantastic indigo blue for $428 via Saks.

Celebrity Style: Michelle Trachtenberg and the Kooba Rio Tote

Michelle Trachtenberg photo via Celebutopia
Awww! Buffy's little sister is all grown up and quite the fashionista. It's nice to see her dressed in a chic and age-appropriate manner. Her choice of handbag suits her youthful look as well. I love the modern lines and intriguing shape of the Kooba Rio Tote. This is a perfect choice for Michelle as well as any 20-something woman whose style reflects a more fashion-conscious sensibility.

The Rio is large (19 x 13.5 x 5), but its' simple design keeps it from overpowering Michelle's petite frame. It features a glossy, patent leather exterior, roomy dual shoulder straps and open top with magnetic snap closure (or you can opt to use interior zippers to close it up as well). The interior has several pockets for additional storage. While Michelle's version appears to be taupe, it's actually silver. It must be a subtle silver ;-) Who cares what color it is anyway. Dawny cleans up good, don't she?!?

Kooba Rio Tote - $645 via Revolve Clothing

Dior Bee Tote

I can finally recommend a Dior bag. I'm so excited because it has been a long time since I felt Dior was living up to its' iconic legacy. The Dior Bee Tote (see cute little "bee" charm attached) is crafted from shiny deerskin leather and features dual buckled top handles, exterior 'cannage' topstitching and front buckled pocket. The gold-tone hardware is a perfect compliment to red color of this medium-sized (12.5 x 16.5 x 8.5) tote, and I'm particularly impressed with the fact they took the time to give the Bee Tote a zippered closure instead of opting for the more in vogue open top. This is a real beauty in person. The photos simply do not do it justice. A larger version is available in a very chic taupe color that I highly recommend as well.

Dior Bee Tote available for $1850 via Neiman Marcus

Chloé Heloise Braided Hobo

What a fabulous bag! The Chloé Heloise Braided Hobo (available in nutmeg brown and a wonderful shade of light blue) is a practical and chic design that will appeal to a broad range of tastes and ages. This roomy 16 x 14 x 5.5 bag would look just as good on the shoulder of a 20 yr old with downtown style as it would on a 40-something suburban mom. The supple lambskin leather exterior begs to be touched yet is sturdy enough to take a beating. The braided handle, pleated detailing and convenient front flap snap pocket are visually tempting without being overly trendy. The result is a hobo that works well any time of day and any time of year. A modern, stylish bag that's a solid investment - just what we're all looking for.

Chloé Heloise Braided Hobo - $1595 via Bergdorf Goodman

Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis French Purse

Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis French Purse
Sometimes we don't need a bag to spruce up our wardrobe. A fun wallet can do just the trick. The Monogram Vernis French Purse, now available in such fabulous colors as orange sunset, blue galactic, rose pop, and green tonic, not only makes for a well-appointed wallet , but it also doubles as a cute little clutch. It measures 5.5 x 3.5 and features a coin purse with kiss-lock closure as well as a snapped compartment with 8 credit card slots and two pockets perfect for papers or bills. The great spring colors you can choose from are only enhanced by the Monogram Vernis patent leather exterior. The Monogram Vernis French Purse is a bit pricey at $750, but it boasts quality construction and strong leather materials so you'll have the pleasure of its' company for many years to come. If you can only manage one of these beauties, I'd recommend the blue galactic or green tonic versions. They're spot-on trend for spring without being too off-the-wall.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis French Purse available via eLUXURY

Celebrity Style: Sarah Michelle Gellar and the Balenciaga Work Bag

Photo of Sarah Michelle Gellar via Celebutopia
Sarah Michelle Gellar has excellent taste in handbags. My girl was recently spotted at the airport with her equally charming husband and sporting one of the greatest bags ever made. I'm referring, of course, to the Balenciaga Work. This fabulous carry-all is made from the yummiest lambskin leather (impossible to find leather as good as what you get with Balenciaga bags), and at 18 x 12 x 6 is roomy enough to use as an everyday bag or travel tote.

The Work doesn't come with a detachable shoulder strap like its' smaller sisters the City and First (a pity in my opinion), but its' surprisingly lightweight unless you pile in the junk like I do. If you're on the thin side, you'll certainly be able to sport this bag on the shoulder. Unfortunately, I was never able to get the handles over my chubby upper arms. I have since parted with my beloved Work in lilac, and I miss her terribly. This bag is still a wonderful investment if only for the fact that it'll last forever. You can purchase Sarah's sky blue version (I have the City in this color) or choose from eight other options including the "must-have" color for this spring - navy.

Balenciaga Work Bag - $1595 via Balenciaga's website

The 2009 Golden Globe Awards - The Good, the Bad and the Inexplicably Ugly

Photos via E! Online and ICYDK
I didn't watch the Golden Globe Awards this year. I didn't tune in for the red carpet report or the "fashion police" shows the following night. My son and I were bonding over a mutual cold and I wanted to rest. I finally had time to look up the red carpet photos today and there were, of course, several hits and even more misses.

Kate Winslet looked phenomenal in YSL (her date wasn't too shabby either!). She kept it simple, chic and sophisticated in basic black with gorgeous jewels and a flattering up-do.

Then we move on to Renée Zellweger who is always a toss up for me. I really appreciate her loyalty to Carolina Herrera when it comes to red carpet events, but these separates, in addition to her awful up-do, make her look a little wacky and very tacky.

Heidi Klum, who looks great in just about anything, totally missed the mark with her vintage Galanos dress, punk-inspired Louboutins and harsh make-up. I happen to be a fan of James Galanos mainly because his designs were reminiscent of classic Cristobal Balenciaga, but this particular dress is a no-no. The addition of a giant rose didn't help to enhance the look. In short, Ms. Klum was a hot mess. She gets a resounding "auf wiedersehen" from me.

Celebrity Style: Kim Kardashian and the YSL Muse Two Satchel

Kim Kardashian photo via Celebutopia
While I love all things YSL, I can't say I'm a fan of the Muse Two Satchel. This photo of Kim Kardashian with her black patent leather version of the Muse Two perfectly illustrates why design is of utmost importance when selecting a handbag. The classic shape of the Muse Two is appealing, but the top handle's placement was not properly thought out. The result is a slouchy, puckered look which was, I guarantee, not the intended effect. I expect much more from a $2000 bag. This might not seem important to most of you out there, but for sticklers for detail like me it's a major pet peeve. If you're interested in achieving the same look with well-placed handles and in a very flattering color to boot, be sure to look into the Mulberry Bayswater Bag. It's just as chic and a $1000 less than the Muse Two.

YSL Muse Two Satchel in black patent leather available for $1995 via YSL's website

Mulberry Bayswater Bag in lavender patent leather available through Net-A-Porter for $995

New Arrivals Alert - Louise Vuitton "Stephen Sprouse" Collection

If you were a teenager during the 80s as I was then you undoubtedly sported fashion pieces inspired by designer Stephen Sprouse. The late Sprouse, famous for his bright graffiti-clad designs, collaborated with Marc Jacobs in 2001 to produce the instantly sold-out Louis Vuitton Graffiti collection. Now Jacobs pays homage to this spirited designer by revisiting the popular, punk-inspired collection.

The Monogram Graffiti collection, available since January 9th in stores with a few pieces available on-line, has the popular Speedy and Neverfull bags priced above the $1000 mark. Collectors and LV lovers are already wait-listed for key pieces.
In addition, a more subdued (and appealing) Monogram Roses collection is also up for grabs. Again, a large portion of this collection is currently available in stores only with a few designs available on-line.

I'm tempted by the Mono Roses and Graffiti Speedy (in orange only as the fuchsia and day-glo green are just too jarring on the eyes for my taste), but their price tags are keeping me and my wallet at a safe distance. I might opt for a small coin purse just to have something from this homage collection.

Shop the entire Stephen Sprouse collection on the Louis Vuitton website or through eLUXURY

Alexander McQueen Melrose Tote

Let us continue today's theme of simple yet chic bags with the Melrose Tote from Alexander McQueen. Mercifully, McQueen spared us the goth look of some of his other skull-clad designs and created a bag with a great shape and loads of storage space. The grass green color (a "must-have" color this spring) and gold-tone hardware compliment each other beautifully. I love the additional punch of color with the hot pink cotton lining as well as the turn-lock closure on the front fold-over flap. The Melrose measures an ample 16.5 x 15 x 6 and is priced at $1435. It's almost $500 more than today's earlier recommendation, but for those of you that want a simple bag with just a little more umph to it the additional cost will prove to be well worth the expenditure in the long run.

Alexander McQueen Melrose Tote available via Saks

Maison Martin Margiela East/West Tote

Every woman should own a bag like the Maison Martin Margiela East/West Tote. A black leather tote with adjustable shoulder straps, zippered top and plenty of storage space (15.5 x 11 x 7) is a staple of any woman's wardrobe. The key to such a classic, and, yet, nondescript bag is to find one that will compliment any ensemble without looking boring. The MMM East/West Tote achieves this with ease delivering a sophisticated look for under $1000. If you're skittish about spending your money on luxury items these days, at least knowing you're buying a bag that will outlast the current economic crisis should help ease your fears. We can still shop, ladies, just responsibly and ALWAYS WITHIN OUR MEANS! I'll be stepping off of my soapbox now...

Maison Martin Margiela East/West Tote - $945 via Saks

Prada Vitello Daino Bowler

Sometimes you want a classic bag without all those bells 'n whistles. Something simple, sophisticated and well made is all you crave. You're not looking to be a trend setter, but ,rather, to attract attention with your killer sense of style. If you fall in this category or you're simply going through a fashion phase of "less-is-more" then the Prada Vitello Daino Bowler is a solid choice that will prove to be a wise investment over time. The structured silhouette, textured calfskin leather exterior and rolled leather top handles exude a vintage feel. Yet the bowler's availability in colors such as white, denim blue and spring favorite, lime, lend this timeless bag a welcome punch of modern sophistication. Measurements are 10 x 13.5 x 5.5.

Prada Vitello Daino Bowler ($1650) available in white and denim blue via Neiman Marcus and in lime via Saks

D & G Dolce & Gabbana Micol Envelope Clutch

Last year I professed love for my idea of the perfect hand-held bag, but it's a brand new year and time to begin the search for the next, best clutch. Here is a strong contender for that coveted title (at least in my own mind). The D & G Dolce & Gabbana Micol Envelope Clutch can be summed up with one word - sleek. The simple, envelope-style silhouette lends itself to the rather inventive front, V-shaped dual zipper closure. This design element makes the bag unique but not overly trendy. Soft grained leather, attached wristlet, and polished gold-tone hardware round out the Micol's features. Measurements are 14 x 9 x 1.5 - simple and sophisticated. A solid contender, indeed.



D & G Dolce & Gabbana Micol Envelope Clutch in White - $790 via eLUXURY

Spotlight On.....West/Feren Handbags

It's time to showcase a new handbag designer whose fresh take on modern, sophisticated handbags is getting her work noticed. Shops like celeb favorite Kitson and on-line e-tailer Shopbop are among the first to carry some of the most original handbags I've seen yet. I'm referring to West/Feren Handbags, the creative brain child of NYC designer Alison Pawling. West/Feren Handbags, named after Alison's grandmothers, is comprised of designs that are sleek and unabashedly bold.

All of Alison's bags show the tell-tale signs of a thoughtful, artistic design process behind their creation. From the structured silhouettes of her clutches and shoulder bags to their sometimes bold exteriors (and interiors!), Alison demonstrates the prowess of a seasoned designer. Yet this freshman designer, despite her years of experience in the fashion world, manages to avoid the pitfalls of other newbies by keeping her designs simple and sophisticated.

My personal favorite, the Hudson Bag, is a practical bag which features the juxtaposition of military-style detailing with an ultra-modern interior lining. The Hudson measures 10 x 12 x 4 and boasts a magnetic flap exterior pocket as well as two interior zip pockets.

Another design worthy of mention is the Portland Clutch ($276) which measures 6 x 12 x 1.5 and is an inexpensive alternative for those of you who are Pierre Hardy handbag fans. Be sure to check out the equally appealing Court Bag ($564). That is one hobo I'd love to add to my collection.

West/Feren Hudson Bag available in Stone (pictured) or Revolutionary Red for $565 via Shopbop

Jimmy Choo Mandah Hobo

Navy is the new black - at least for Spring '09. I love the classic look of navy and the versatile nature of this often overlooked shade of blue. If pastels and bright colors are not your cup of tea, then a navy bag this spring is your best handbag investment. There are several options already up for pre-order on-line, but my No.1 choice is the Jimmy Choo Mandah Hobo.

I wasn't thrilled with the "middle zipper"detailing on a few of the handbags launched by JC in 2008, but I think the Mandah shows how the kinks have finally been worked out of this design. Just look at how fabulous the bag is either zipped up or undone. The leather exterior features a suede inset that is visible on either version. The gold-tone hardware is minimal and looks very sophisticated next to the dark navy leather. A small snap pocket is accessible when the bag is converted to the un-zipped style.

The Jimmy Choo Mandah Hobo tops my list of must-have bags for 2009. OK, so the year is only 7 days old. Sue me! I know what I like and that's final.

Pre-order the Jimmy Choo Mandah Hobo in Met Navy for $1595 via Neiman Marcus

Handbag Dilemma - In Search of a Stylish "Everyday" Bag

One of my readers, Alicia C., is in need of a stylish, trendy "everyday" bag and is seeking help with where to look:

Need handbag help!

Hello! I am seeking a new trendy, stylish bag- I have a Tod's black shoulder hobo, a Fendi little bag, and a few other bags here and there, but nothing that i want to or can use every single day. I like to carry a lot of 'stuff' in my purse too!!! I was thinking in the 300-500 range, but am not super picky, just really want some direction as far as use and trend!

Well, Alicia, you're in luck because finding a stylish, trendy (but not TOO trendy!), roomy, well-made and moderately priced designer "everyday" bag is not that difficult a task any longer. I have the perfect designer in mind for you - Marc Jacobs. His MARC by Marc Jacobs line is filled with designs that will satisfy all your requirements.

E-tailers such as eLUXURY, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Shopbop carry a wide selection of the MARC by Marc Jacobs handbag line. You can search these sites at your leisure, but I would be happy to suggest one bag in particular which photos do not do justice.

The Totally Turnlock Quinn Shoulder Bag is my personal favorite (as well as my Christmas present from hubby!). This extremely well-appointed design must be viewed in person to appreciate. It can hold its own against more expensive designer bags. The comfortable dual top handles fit comfortably over the shoulder, and the fold-over flap top with signature turnlock closure is trendy without screaming "fashion victim". It's very roomy and will fit everything you need for a full day on-the-go. I even manage to fit a couple of small books and a water bottle inside.

I've left the best part of the Quinn for last - the leather. This bag begs to be touched. The leather is supple and flexible. You'll love this bag because it's stylish, trendy yet very practical and not over the top. Plus, at $468, the Totally Turnlock Quinn Shoulder Bag is a bargain. It's available in several colors (I have the cream version), so you can be as bold or as safe as you'd like.

If you don't like this bag, Alicia, I'm sure you'll find what you're searching for among the many other fabulous MARC by Marc Jacobs bags.

Good luck!

MARC by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Quinn in bright red or black via Neiman Marcus
MARC by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Quinn in cream via Saks
MARC by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Quinn in denim via Nordstrom

Chloé Paraty

Get ready to jump on the designer handbag bandwagon in 2009 courtesy of the Chloé Paraty. This tote, a celeb favorite and bona fide hit, is back in '09 and available in several colors and sizes. After comparing the large and medium Paraty totes to each other, I prefer the medium-sized version best. Both feature the Paraty's trademark dual shoulder straps with gold-tone metal accents as well as the curved piping design on the front and rear exteriors, but the dimensions of the large version allow the Paraty to loose its' unique shape and, therefore, its' appeal. I'd recommend sticking to the medium version's 12 x 9.5 x 8 dimensions which are ample enough to qualify it as a true tote. If you really need a larger bag, then hopefully the 21 x 14.5 x 8 measurements of the large Paraty tote will suffice.

Pre-order the Chloé Paraty Medium Tote in lavender (pictured) for $1895 via Saks

Pre-order the Chloé Paraty Large Tote in chrome yellow (pictured) for $2195 via Saks

Spotlight On....Zara Terez Handbags

The new year deserves to be ushered in with the discovery of new talent in the world of designer handbags. Zara Terez (love the name!) epitomizes the artistry that has always been inherent in handbag design. Her original silhouettes and intense attention to craftsmanship meld together in each of her well thought out and, frankly, funky designs. This artist finds inspiration everywhere around her - from her family to her Atlantic Beach, NY surroundings. Zara's artistic sensibility is what sets her designs apart from the rest, and are getting her work noticed.

If you take time to browse her website, you'll discover, as I did, that Zara is no wall-flower. The silhouettes of her moderately-priced collection are fun and functional. Take the Sunset Park satchel, for instance. This well-appointed design features adjustable shoulder straps as well as a slew of very practical outside pockets perfect for pack rats like me. The Clementine orange pebbled leather exterior is a burst of sunshine, but the interior lining of each and every one of Ms. Terez's designs are the real show stoppers. The complimentary circle tapestry of this particular design if a treat to the eyes and a welcome departure from your basic black lining. The Sunset Park measures 17 x 12 so it's very roomy indeed, and you can't help but be enticed by the $585 price tag.

Keep your eye out for Zara Terez and her fresh handbag designs. You'll be hearing and seeing more about them. That I'm certain of. Besides, who can help but love a designer that classifies her bags under such fantastic categories as "clubbing", "strolling" and "schlepping"?!?!

Browse the Zara Terez website to view her entire handbag collection as well as accessories for men.

Tod's Easy Sacca Grande

Happy New Year! What better way to kick off 2009 than admiring a smart handbag from an established designer label. I celebrated the holidays with my family, and received a fabulous gift from hubby dearest. Yes, it was a bag of course. What else would Señora Cartera want?!?! Forgive me, I digress from my intent which is to sing the praises of this under $1000 bag from Tod's. Women love Tod's with good reason. Their handbags are stylish and expertly crafted. Designs are meant to be functional with the added benefit of longevity, not just in concept but in construction.

The Tod's Easy Sacca Grande is a solid handbag investment. The coated canvas exterior (done in a stunning saffron color) and grained leather trim comprise the perfect union of casual style and practical materials. The adjustable leather straps as well as a detachable canvas strap add much-needed versatility. You can use it as an everyday bag, a small shopping tote or opt for carrying it cross-body for a more youthful look. It measures 14 x 12 x 6 so no complaints about a lack of storage space can be made. The open top and snap closure offer easy access to the textile-lined interior that sports additional compartments to store smaller items.

If you did not have an opportunity to add a bag to your collection over the holidays, then the Tod's Easy Sacca Grande is an excellent choice for your first bag of '09.

Tod's Easy Sacca Grande available for $825 via eLUXURY