Fendi Peek-A-Boo Satchel: Part Deux

For those of you that are as head-over-heels in love with the Fendi Peek-A-Boo Satchel as I am, be sure to click on over to Saks where a group of these beautiful bags is now available. With either patent or sophisticated leather exteriors to choose from, the 'Peek-A-Boo' is the sort of design you should own and would never regret buying. A smart, neutral beige version (pictured) can be pre-ordered for $1980. Considering the very same bag is being peddled for about $400 more on other sites (a red leather version to be exact), this opportunity is too good to pass up. So, ladies, be sure to browse Saks' selection of 'Peek-A-Boo' satchels and decide which one will suit you best. Good luck deciding!

Fendi Peek-A-Boo Satchels via Saks

Recession Shopping: Rachel Nasvik Janice Convertible Hobo

Deals are few and far between nowadays, but we can expect to see this change as times get tougher and retailers scramble to stay out of the red. I'm always excited when I find a beautiful, moderately-priced classic bag, and the Rachel Nasvik Janice Convertible Hobo fits the bill perfectly.

Available in black or hot pink leather, the 'Janice' measures an adequate 13.5 x 8.5 x 1 and has a roomy 12.5" shoulder drop. It converts from a hobo to an oversized clutch by simply removing the attached shoulder strap. The zippered top folds over to use an additional turnlock closure, and the lined interior sports a zippered pocket to store smaller essentials. The 'Janice' is priced at a reasonable $448, but if you enter "luckybreaks12" at checkout the price drops to $336.

Available via LunaBoston.com

Louis Vuitton Monogram Boétie

Check out the latest addition to the classic Louis Vuitton Monogram line. The Monogram Boétie, a structured yet feminine satchel, is a great take on one of the latest trends to hit handbag world - the large cross-body bag. Whether you prefer to carry your bags on the crook of your arm, slung over the shoulder or cross-body style, this roomy bag will suit you well.

It comes in three sizes, PM (14.3 x 9 x 6.3), MM (17.3 x 10.2 x 7.9) and GM (20 x 10.6 x 9), and features a zippered top with fold-over flap and twist-lock closure. The detachable, adjustable strap is ideal for cross-body use, and the dual top handles fit easily over any arm. The interior includes flat pockets designed to accommodate larger cell phones or BlackBerrys (hurray!).

I will warn you that the Monogram Boétie is not for the financially strapped. The PM is priced at $1860, the MM at $2180 and the GM at $2580. Ouch!!! These prices reflect the Boétie's design as well as "collectable" appeal. I don't think I could bring myself to shell out over $2000 for an LV Monogram bag, but I can understand why others would.

Shop the Louis Vuitton Monogram Boétie here

Chanel Quilted Lambskin Clutch

Chanel Quilted Lambskin Clutch - $1595
A Chanel handbag speaks for itself. A Chanel clutch, in particular, exudes a quiet, sophisticated elegance meant to compliment practically any outfit. This Quilted Lambskin Clutch is no exception. It features the iconic Chanel quilted pattern exterior as well as a darling resin pearl clasp closure. The black/white version is perfect for evening use while an icy pale pink rendition (not pictured) would make for the ideal spring clutch. The framed silhouette and adorable attached coin purse give this oversized clutch a decidedly vintage look and feel. As I wrote earlier, a Chanel bag speaks for itself and this one says "I'm perfection". Visit your local Chanel boutique to check for availability.

Louis Vuitton Exotic Neverfull MM

I'm posting this because I wanted everyone to see just how ridiculous the designer handbag market has become. If you must have an insanely expensive bag for no other reason than to say to the world "Hey, here's my really expensive bag", be sure to consider the Louis Vuitton Exotic Neverfull MM for your next purchase. Other than possessing a luxurious alligator skin exterior, this version of LV's popular Neverfull collection is an absurd waste of money. Before I start receiving e-mails and comments expounding the virtues of all things Louis Vuitton, please consider that this bag's ludicrous $32,300 price tag could buy you 10-15 other Louis Vuitton bags not to mention at least two fabulous Hermes Birkins or several Nancy Gonzalez bags that sport equally stunning exotic finishes. I'm not saying LV isn't entitled to create these expensive bags, I'm just suggesting we put their worth into perspective and try to get more (I mean much more) for our money. Unless you're very wealthy or a famous celebrity, steer clear of these money traps. You'll only end up regretting such a rash purchase.

Shop for Louis Vuitton's Exotic Neverfull MM here

Miu Miu Studded Shoulder Bag

I love it when I find a great bag which I'd previously written off due to unflattering on-line photos. After staring at the Miu Miu Studded Shoulder Bag for weeks now, I was only able to muster lukewarm feelings for it. Once I saw this bag in person, however, I completely changed my mind about it. My opinion has changed so much so that I now have to have it (hint to hubby who was present during my embarrassing display of affection for it).

The reason why I'd previously disliked the bag was mainly because of the stud detailing. What is difficult to discern from the photos on-line is that the studs are not gaudy, but are, in fact, quite stunning to behold. They're textured by a "hammering" effect that gives the bag a very luxe aesthetic. The whipstitching along the top handles is reminiscent of Balenciaga which I love. It comes with a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap which is necessary if you plan to sling it over your shoulder since the handles only offer a modest 5" drop. It's large (14 x 12 x 8) and features a magnetic snap closure as well as additional interior compartments perfect for storing smaller items.

So ladies, let this be a lesson to you all. While shopping on-line can be fun and convenient, nothing beats a little footwork at your local department store or boutique. Shopping in person can lead you to a fabulous bag you might have never given a second glance.

Miu Miu Studded Shoulder Bag in white leather available for $1295 via Net-A-Porter

MARC by Marc Jacobs Puckered Birdie Hobo

Attention pack rats! If you desire a chic hobo that can hold everything plus the kitchen sink, I have the perfect bag for you. Feast your peepers on the MARC by Marc Jacobs Puckered Birdie Hobo. This logo-embossed leather bag measures a whopping 18 x 13.5 x 6.5 and has a 6" drop. That small drop length would normally bother me, but since this is a hobo with a "puckered" top it'll definitely give way to accommodate chunky arms. For thinner ladies, no worries except to decide whether or not the large size will compliment a small body frame. The 'Birdie' features two exterior side pockets with pushlock closures as well as several interior pockets. I'm recommending the fire-engine red version because it looks fierce, but it's also available in pebble brown and black for more conservative ladies.

MARC by Marc Jacobs Puckered Birdie Hobo available for $495 via Bloomingdale's

Botkier Kai Tote

I spotted the Botkier Kai Tote at Saks over the weekend, and I absolutely love it. It's roomy, fits comfortably over the shoulder and sports a wonderful, smooth and thick lambskin leather exterior. The black version was my favorite (only the black and natural versions were available at my local store), but the pearl white/grey bag on Botkier's website is equally appealing. I know many of you have written to me in the past regarding zippered tops vs snap closures, but the magnetic snap closure on the 'Kai' keeps the bag closed tightly so spilling the contents of your bag all over the place won't be a nagging problem. The braided top handle and gathered detailing along the front and back make this a gorgeous everyday bag. I can't rave enough about the Botkier Kai Tote so I'll stop here and save you the additional slobbering love fest.

The Botkier Kai Tote Bag is available for $595 via the designer's website

Louis Vuitton Flight Paname Takeoff Bag

I'm experiencing a serious love/hate relationship with the Louis Vuitton Flight Paname Takeoff Bag. I absolutely love its' retro-inspired design meant to mimic 70s travel luggage. We can choose from bright red, yellow or blue calfskin leather exteriors shaped in a quaint, square 8.5 x 7.5 x 4 silhouette.

Now that you know what I like about the Flight Paname Takeoff Bag, let me tell you what I don't like. I'd give you three guesses as to what my major design gripe is with this bag, but, what the heck, I can't wait to tell you. The brand's name tattooed along the front side is an absolute turnoff. No matter how much I may love this bag, that stupid 'Louis Vuitton' on the front makes me want to give Marc Jacobs a big 'ole nuggie for being such a dork. Marc, you ruined a perfectly nice bag with that dumb logo, and then added insult to injury by pricing it beyond all justification.

I know I'm probably going to upset LV lovers, but this bag is just not worth the $2180 price tag. Only hard-core LV collectors with deep coffers would and should be tempted to buy the Flight Paname Takeoff Bag. I, for one, will continue to love and hate it at the same time. Of course, if any of you brave women out there buy one, please send a photo my way. I love to live vicariously from time to time.

Buy the Louis Vuitton Flight Paname Takeoff Bag here

Vanessa Bruno Square Shoulder Bag

After being desensitized by yesterday's horrid Donna Karan Drawstring Shoulder Bag, I thought I'd be nice to everyone and focus only on beautiful, practical and well-designed handbags. With his goal in mind, here is just such a bag. The Vanessa Bruno Square Shoulder Bag measures 17 x 13 x 5 and has a comfortable 10" shoulder strap drop. There's a large front zippered pocket with buckle detailing. The top features a zipper fastening with an additional fold-over flap tab. A lovely turquoise leather exterior complimented by goldtone hardware provides a fresh look that's perfect for spring. I happen to really love bags like this because you can use them year-round here in Miami. With the added convenience of multiple interior pockets, I'm seriously tempted to scoop this bag up pronto. Even if I decide to forego the pleasure of adding the Vanessa Bruno Square Shoulder Bag to my collection, I can at least surf over to Net-A-Porter every once in a while and admire its' simple beauty and under $1000 price tag.

Vanessa Bruno Square Shoulder Bag available for $965 via Net-A-Porter

Donna Karan Drawstring Shoulder Bag

I'm certain I've already mentioned my disdain for drawstring bags before, so imagine how disgusted I was to see a drawstring bag where the drawstrings don't run horizontally but, rather, vertically. I look at this bag and wonder why it was made. It's just so awful I couldn't justify buying it - E-V-E-R. I haven't been a fan of Donna Karan handbags, and the Drawstring Shoulder Bag is a perfect example of why I'm not.

This is a nonsensical hag bag not to mention a waste of perfectly good deerskin leather. It's enormous (15.5 x 14 x 4.5") and ridiculous. If you factor in the $1600 price tag, this Donna Karan design goes from ridiculous to insulting. Whoever is in charge of accessories over at Donna Karan better get their stuff together and come up with better designs than this bag. In fact, I'd settle for anything remotely normal-looking. If the creative direction of DK handbag design doesn't go through a complete overhaul soon, I'm afraid the label will become a joke in the designer handbag world. C'mon, you can do better folks.

Pre-order the Donna Karan Drawstring Shoulder Bag for $1595 via Saks

Recession Shopping: Gryson Tutu Convertible Satchel vs Olivia Harris Patch Satchel

Before anyone entertains the notion that the designers behind one of these handbags could be guilty of trademark infringement or other similar charges, just know that both bags were created by the same group of designers spear-headed by Joy Gryson. As you may have already guessed, Olivia Harris is the more economically-priced offspring of Gryson handbags. So for those of you that love designer bags, need to be frugal during the recession and are not ready to start shopping at Target just yet, read on.

The Gryson Tutu Convertible Satchel and Olivia Harris Patch Satchel are both eerily similar. They share the same shape and measurements as well as features including a front, zippered pocket and detachable shoulder strap. However, there are a few notable differences that set these bags apart and puts one of them ahead of the other in my mind. The Gryson bag has an open top with magnetic snap closure while the Olivia Harris design has a zippered top. Score one for OH. The OH bag has a small top handle drop of 4" making it nearly impossible to carry on the shoulder without the attached shoulder strap. The Gryson design has a more convenient 7.5" top handle drop so carrying it over the shoulder is more than possible even for women with thick upper arms like me. Score one for Gryson. Both designs are neck-n-neck.

Now I'm ready to decide the winner in this battle. While the Gryson Tutu Convertible Satchel has a lovely suede-lined interior and boasts goldtone hardware with nail-head accents, I can't help but recognize that the Olivia Harris Patch Satchel is more appealing to the senses. Whether it's the supple leather exterior (as opposed to the more distressed leather on the Gryson bag), toned down bronze hardware or side patch accents, the Olivia Harris bag is just plain prettier than its' more expensive counterpart. Which leads me to the OH's best feature - its' $495 price tag. That's right, ladies, the Olivia Harris Patch Satchel is the better-looking bag and costs half the price as that of the Gryson Tutu Convertible Satchel. Another battle has been decided and the consumer is the winner. It's great to see yet another moderately-priced handbag line provide stiff competition for its' expensive designer predecessor.

Gryson Tutu Convertible Satchel available in charcoal or purple for $955 via Saks

Olivia Harris Patch Satchel available in black or cognac for $495 via Neiman Marcus

Celebrity Style: Lindsay Lohan and the Alexander Wang Donna Hobo

I won't talk about Lindsay Lohan because I think everything that can be said about her has been said already. I'll limit my comments to her taste in handbags. This young woman loves handbags from Louis Vuitton to Chanel to Balenciaga. In this photo, Lindsay is rockin' the retro, 80s-inspired Alexander Wang Donna Hobo.

I have one important observation to share with all of you about this bag. It's not for everyone. That means, ladies, if you're not a teenager or in your twenties or even a very young-looking 30-something, you should not be toting this hobo. The washed leather mimics the denim-washed look that was so prevalent during the 80s (and even today in some parts of the U.S.). While I love the multitude of zippered pockets peppered along the bag's front as well as the contrast of the silver tone hardware against the washed leather exterior, I know this bag would never look good on me. Period. On Lindsay, however, it looks hot. The hobo is this season's must-have style, and, for a young, modern woman like Ms. Lohan, the Alexander Wang Donna Hobo is the perfect choice.

Alexander Wang Donna Hobo available for $825 via Shopbop

P.S. - The Alexander Wang Donna Hobo also comes in a neutral, wrinkled leather finish as well as a black leather motorcycle-inspired version.

Lindsay Lohan photo via omg!

Battle of the Prada Bags: Vitello Shine Tote vs Nylon St. Pitone Foldover Bag

Here is a perfect example of the inexplicable phenomenon occurring today across the vast fashion design world. How can a designer, in terms of aesthetics, create such diametrically opposed designs? In layman's terms, why do designers throw in trashy bags along with fabulous treasures?

The answer is quite loaded and will open a whole can of worms. Personally, I think these designers sit around in a dark, smoke-filled room and say to themselves "Let's see how many ugly bags we can get people to buy just because they have our logo on them" (insert sinister laugh). All kidding aside, the reason why they do this is not important, but, rather, the end results we're faced with.

Let's examine the bags I've selected above. First up is the Prada Vitello Shine Tote. This fun, modern tote features a denim-colored shiny calf-skin leather exterior with front zippered pockets and removable chain detailing. The open top sports a convenient snap closure and the lined interior has an additional zipped pocket to store smaller items. It measures 12 x 15 x 7 making it a great choice for a day-to-evening bag. Now we move on to the atrocity that is the Prada Nylon St. Pitone Foldover Bag. I frankly don't know where to begin. Everything, and I mean everything, is wrong with this bag. OK, let's start with the obvious - it's nylon. It has a python-printed nylon exterior combined with an actual python foldover top (hence the justification for the elevated price tag). Apparently, we're meant to marvel at the creativity displayed here, but all I want to do when I look at it is toss my cookies. Both these bags are priced at $1895. Can you believe the nerve Prada has? I can because it's happening with practically every other designer label.

So, ladies, it's our job as discerning designer handbag lovers to sift through the trash (even designer trash) and pick out the treasures. I think you can all pick out which of these two Prada designs wins the battle of the bags. The other one is simply handbag roadkill. Just keep on driving...

The Prada Vitello Shine Tote and Nylon St. Pitone Foldover Bag are both available via Neiman Marcus

Chanel Spring 2009 Handbag Collection Preview

It was just about six months ago that we caught our first glimpse of Chanel's Spring 2009 handbag collection. I applauded the beauty and sophistication of most of the handbags previewed, but there were a few designs that bordered on the ridiculous. I expressed my hope that no one would buy one of these kitschy bags, but I fear my hopes were in vain. Not only are we graced with the expected glamour of Chanel's classic handbags, but we are also stuck with nonsensical "shopping" bags.

Chanel handbag lovers will be more than satisfied with the iconic label's latest offerings. I've included photos of some of their best designs for your viewing pleasure. On the other hand, the shopping bags I mentioned (and seen pictured above) were not meant in jest and are, in fact, meant for sale. Ugh! We're supposed to take the good with the bad, but we certainly don't have to purchase both.

Browse Chanel's entire spring 2009 collection here

Photos via Chanel

Celebrity Style: Bulgari Dalia Shoulder Bag

What do Eva Mendes and Freida Pinto have in common asides from stunning, exotic looks, beautiful bodies and successful careers as actresses? Well, fabulous taste in handbags as is evident from these photos. Both ladies are carrying one of this season's hottest bags. The shoulder bag in question is none other than the Bulgari Dalia Shoulder Bag. If the name doesn't grab your attention then, perhaps, the bag's sophisticated design will.

The 'Dalia', a design from Bulgari's spring/summer '09 Doppio Tondo collection, sports a slightly hoboish shape - the latest trend in handbags. The soft, water buffalo leather exterior done in a refined neutral shade (other colors are available) is yet another trend for spring. Subtle goldtone hardware on the front and sides is kept to a minimum to enhance the 'Dalia's' classic appeal. The interior features a small compartment and cell phone pocket. Measurements are approximately 23 x 19 x 10 - certainly not for the faint of heart. It's priced at $2100 which is nothing to sneeze at nowadays, but the 'Dalia's' well thought out design, exceptional craftsmanship and ample size ensures its' owner will get their money's worth.

Shop the Bulgari Dalia and other styles exclusively at Bulgari shops or on-line via their website

Tory Burch Matthias Satchel

The Tory Burch Matthias Satchel is the type of bag I could stare at for hours. Its' visual appeal is undeniable. The design elements draw you in, but it's the $595 price tag that will put a smile on your face. If you're tired of carrying around your logo-emblazoned LV Speedy, consider this bag as a very stylish alternative. Black crinkled patent leather provides a chic backdrop for the 'Matthias'. Its' familiar shape offers adequate storage space (10 x 12 x 7.5), and the gold-tone, "screw head" hardware is a modern, sophisticated design choice that sets this bag apart from the rest of its' designer competition. I'd nab this bag in a heartbeat, and, if you're in the market for a black satchel, so should you.



Tory Burch Matthias Satchel available via Neiman Marcus

Badgley Mischka Platinum Label Kara Messenger Bag

I love the Badgley Mischka Platinum Label Kara Messenger Bag. The fact that it's priced under $500 makes me love it even more. It's boho-chic stylish, surprisingly functional and quite versatile. You can carry it on your arm, over the shoulder (if you're very skinny) or cross-body. However, its' roomy (17 x 14 x 1) size makes this bag more of a tote than a messenger bag. The beige leather exterior can compliment almost any wardrobe staple, and the chain shoulder strap is detachable if chains are not your cup of tea. The buckled, wrap-around straps and tassels are visually inviting without being design overkill. There's a magnetic snap closure and interior pockets for added storage. This Badgley Mischka design is a good investment and the price tag is its' best selling point. Snatch this one up just in time for spring and even summer.

Badgley Mischka Platinum Label Kara Messenger Bag available for $485 via Saks