Recession Shopping: Kenneth Cole NY No Slouch Hobo

For just under $300 you can experience the look and feel of a quality designer bag without the budget-busting price tag. The Kenneth Cole NY No Slouch Hobo is simple and practical. The design is nothing new, but the execution is definitely designer quality. More of an east/west bag, this 16 x 8 x 4 is listed as the smaller version, but there's nothing "small" about it. The dimensions are more than adequate to store all your daily essentials. In addition to the many interior pockets meant to keep you organized, the bag comes with a wide, comfortable removable shoulder strap. The top handle is covered in tiny studs so you can jump on the "rocker chic" bandwagon without overdoing it. The No Slouch Hobo comes in black, oatmeal and espresso (pictured). Any of these colors would be perfect throughout the year so your $300 will go a long way. While I'm recommending the smaller version of this bag for most of you, the larger 18 x 12 x 6 rendition ($358) is more my taste, and, contrary to the bag's moniker, the larger size has a bit of a "slouch". You can purchase either size through kennethcole.com.

A special thanks to Gail, a loyal SC reader, for turning me onto this bag. It's a great find at a fabulous price. Happy recession shopping to all.

Lanvin Teacher Quilted Pouchette

Are you in the mood to indulge in a sleek, classically-detailed bag from the label that does such bags with feminine sophistication? If the answer is "yes", then the Lanvin Teacher Quilted Pouchette is your bag. This rather roomy 14.5 x 7 x 2.5 clutch/shoulder bag can dress up a work outfit, compliment a timeless LBD or spruce up your basic t-shirt and jeans movie night ensemble. The quilted leather exterior is reminiscent of Chanel without being too overly done. The gold-tone turnlock closure is simply stunning to behold. So very modern and elegant. The fold-over flap houses two open interior compartments as well as a smaller zippered pocket. You can carry the Teacher Quilted Pouchette by its black leather top handle or opt for a removable gold chain strap. Now here is the "indulging" part I mentioned earlier - a hefty $2270 price tag. Like I said, this is a bag that can only be justified as a purely indulgent purchase. You decide if your closet and your bank account can accommodate another expensive bag.

Lanvin Teacher Quilted Pouchette available via BarneysNY

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2010 Collection: Poised To Join The Big Leagues

Apparently Phillip Lim got the memo that he's a rather talented fashion designer and embraced his talents with the confidence of a seasoned pro. Lim is no longer the new kid on the block, and his Spring 2010 collection is a testament to just how good the phenom designer has become. His pragmatic creations and signature downtown style are more than evident in this sophisticated collection. There were a few misses, but most of the looks that made their way down the runway were clever and very wearable. Care to know how his bag collection stacked up along side such chic outfits?


There were just a few bags shown here and there, but what we were able to see was pretty fabulous. The designs ranged from practical, well-appointed totes and satchels to sleek laptop sleeves. Lim has created a balanced, grown-up collection without sacrificing the style choices his core audience expect. It's no wonder 3.1 Phillip Lim is poised to join a select group of "big league" labels the fashion world looks forward to seeing every season.

Photos: nymag.com

Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 Collection: Good Luck With All That, Marc...

I won't even bother discussing the fashions that sacheted down the runway yesterday at Marc Jacobs' Spring 2010 show. There were so many historic, era and style references present in this collection that I'm still dizzy from counting them all. I'm much more excited to break down the unmitigated disaster that is Jacobs' bag collection. Where do I begin? There's so much to dissect, ladies and gents. I'll start off gently and work my way toward the really heinous bags.

First up are the shoes. I normally don't mention footwear when reviewing collections, but I had to bring these 'things' to your attention. I'm fairly certain these are the most unflattering shoes ever. Are they meant for geisha, surfers, women with a warped sense of fashion? Who knows. What I do know is that they are horrid.


Moving on to what we're all truly interested in, I begin with the more mundane creations Marc Jacobs expects us to fawn over come spring.


These bags are OK, but nothing spectacular or otherwise appealing. The drawstring backpacks are of particular interest just because the collection is filled with them. Uh, Ooooookkkkkk!!!


Next up are these snakeskin clad evening bags with drawstring tops and zipper detailing. Who would use those design elements on an exotic bag? What a waste! I'm still dumbfounded by these choices.


How do you feel about these leather messenger bags featuring long, knotted side sashes and chandelier gems dangling along the edges of the fold-over flap tops? I know, there's no need to state the obvious. I don't get them either.


Let's throw some fanny packs in just for giggles, alright? I mean, we all need bags that accentuate our hips, midsection and match our pants too. I know I've been hoping someone would make a bag just like this for a very long time ;-)


Anyone in the mood for a large, metallic shoulder bag with chunky chain top handles and python trim? (This is a rhetorical question, by the way.)


Now for the most serious offenders. These awful bags, with their woven exteriors and snakeskin fringe accents, are gross, inexplicable attempts unworthy of Jacobs' proven talent. Let's just chalk these up to a drunken night of brainstorming, OK?



Finally, we come to the absolute worst of the bunch. These quilted, rivets-clad, tassel-embellished monstrosities are meant to be this collection's piéce de résistance. Yes, ladies, grown women are expected to walk around with what are sure to be expensive bags with multiple miniature tassels covering every inch of their exteriors. I think poor Marc, at some point, simply checked out of the creative process behind his Spring 2010 accessories collection. My advice to the rest of us, especially his devoted fans, is to do the same in protest.

Marc, darling, good luck with all that, I mean, this. Oh, whatever!

Photos: nymag.com

Marc Jacobs Rockabilly Leather Shoulder Bag

I'm so glad I get to write something nice about Marc Jacobs and his bags because my upcoming review of his Spring 2010 collection won't be as glowing, but that's another post. Let's focus on the bag at hand. The Rockabilly Leather Shoulder Bag is part of Jacobs' Fall 2009 collection and a standout design to say the least. This isn't just another boring black bag. The laser-cut leather technique used throughout the bag's exterior is refreshing and masterful. The pieces flow together in a wave-like pattern that adds a subtle air of sophistication to what would've been just another ordinary shoulder bag. The 13 x 10 x 3 size works for both day or evening use. The bag features a front zip pocket and zip top main compartment, both lined in fuchsia satin. So sexy! A single shoulder strap and silver-tone ring attachments round out the 'Rockabilly's' features. You can purchase the Marc Jacobs Rockabilly Leather Shoulder Bag for $1350 via Net-A-Porter with no regrets. It's a beautiful design and worth its price tag. What a pity I can't say the same for his next batch of bags. Stay tuned for my review of that hot mess of a collection.

Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2010 Collection: Better Luck Next Time

The title of this post sums up my impression of Diane von Furstenberg's Spring 2010 collection. I can only hope DVF drops the boho-chic direction her classic label has gone in over the past few seasons. It's fine to have hippie clothes and ethnic-inspired accessories for a season, maybe even two. However, it's quite another thing to make fashionistas scratch their heads in utter wonder at just what the heck is going on at the house Diane built.

There were a few individual looks I found quite appealing. As always, DVF is a master at knowing exactly how to flatter a woman's body, and I mean any woman. The sheer black dress pictured above is just exquisite. Another piece, DVF's iconic wrap dress done in a bold pink ethnic print, makes for a fun spring outfit, but the accessories seem like a hodge-podge of everything we've seen over the past couple of seasons. Frankly, I'm kind of done with it. I wish DVF were as well.


Don't think I've forgotten about the bags. Oh no, that would be impossible to do. The bags are, to put it mildly, not the best I've seen from DVF. In fact, I'm pretty certain this is her worst bag line since she began including them in her runway collections. The horrid 'Stephanie' hobo is back (of course) and uglier than ever. Now the exterior isn't just silver or gold. Nope, the onslaught on our eyes has broadened to include the entire color spectrum. I kid you not. The rest of the bags that made an appearance look like home ec. assignments. Ghastly! The only bright spot is a grey/black 'Marlene' clutch, and I don't even like that design very much. I guess I'm just grasping at straws hoping to find some redeeming piece in this collection. When that piece is one that only manages to illicit lukewarm feelings from this handbag lover, there really is no saving the rest of the bunch. Better luck next time, Diane. I still love you to pieces.

Photos: nymag.com

Sang A Migration Duffel Bag

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There are few fashion blogs that manage to capture my attention and make me their avid readers. In the short time Bagpoor.com has been on the web, its authors, Michael St. James and Nina Styles, have proven their knowledge of designer bags and demonstrated they possess a keen fashion sense that all of us can find useful. I'm thrilled to have Michael St. James as a guest blogger on Señora Cartera, and hope this won't be a one-time event. Show your love for Bagpoor.com. Visit them and let them know yours truly sent you.

-Dania
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I still remember the first time I fell in love with Sang A bags! Jessica Simpson was spotted grabbing a bite to eat in LA, while wearing the cobalt blue python Jade clutch. Sang A became an overnight success and "go to" designer for celebs and fashionistas alike.


A couple of years and dozens of "it" bags later, she is still using high quality exotic skins to create fun, colorful bags. Her latest masterpiece is the Migration Duffel. This is the first time that we've seen black sueded python from Sang A and I love it. The sumptuous chocolate python skin is gorgeous as well.



My personal favorite, however, is the dusk degrade leather version with a contrasting black sueded python trim. The buttery soft leather has an ombré or gradient effect and transitions from a deep mustard yellow to stark white. The sides of the bag are a well worn navy blue. Sang A truly thinks of everything, so of course it's fully lined in light grey suede. Don't you hate trying to find your keys or cell phone in a black pit of cheap nylon? The Migration Duffel measures at 14.5" long, 9.25" high, 8.5" deep. The leather adaptation retails for $1800, while the python versions are $2500 via Sang A. Start saving now ladies!



This post was brought to you by Michael St. James of Bagpoor.com!

Celebrity Style: Celebrities Love Big Bags

Photos: Popsugar.com
Whether it's a shoulder bag, tote or satchel, celebrities are obsessed with lugging around big bags. I suppose their hectic lives require bags that serve multiple purposes. These bags must be spacious without sacrificing style. Too bad all celebrities don't have the same keen eye for spotting the perfect big bag as yours truly has.

The three beautiful actresses pictured here are all toting big bags, but only two of them get my stamp of approval. Can you guess who made the cut? OK, this one is too easy, I know. The always gorgeous Halle Berry is carrying one of my favorite bags ever, the Bulgari Dalya ($2100). This sophisticated shoulder bag with its sumptuous leather exterior and well-placed metallic accents dresses up Halle's understated style. America's sweetheart, Julia Roberts, is carrying yet another classic design, the Fendi Peek-A-Boo Satchel ($1980). This large satchel can be carried by hand, on the arm or over the shoulder. The divided interior is ideal for storing daily essentials on one side and files or magazines in the other. It seems Julia understands the importance of keeping organized and looking great while doing it.

Which brings me to our final celebrity and her atrocious bag. Every time I have the misfortune of seeing Ashley Olsen's bag, I'm reminded of the fact that Bottega Veneta is inexplicably responsible for creating it. There's not much I can say about the Cushion Tote ($2750) except it's big like a college student's laundry bag. I guess it can serve as a pretty good travel bag, but, then again, it's so shapeless and ugly that I can't imagine anyone other than one half of the Olsen twins ever wanting to use it. So Halle and Julia are golden with their respective big bags, and poor Ashley is better off with something smaller and far more stylish than her current selection.

MARC by Marc Jacobs Petal To The Metal Evie Hobo

The bird is back. Here I was stupidly hoping Marc Jacobs decided to give us a bag with birds on it as a "humorous" one-time thing, but I was headed for disappointment. Another "Petal To The Metal" bag brings us more birds (well, only one bird this time). Once again, I'm totally peeved. This is a perfectly functional and chic design without the dumb bird embellishment. It sports a nice rounded shape and thick, supple leather exterior. It's spacious with plenty of storage options both inside and out. Speaking strictly from a design standpoint, the Petal To The Metal Elvie Hobo is quite "vanilla" which is fine with me. A bag like this can serve as a blank canvas allowing your clothes and other accessories to shine through, but, alas, the bird is front and center, ever present for all to see. It seems Jacobs is hell bent on making sure you enjoy his bird fetish as much as he does, but all I want to do is show him another kind of bird letting him know exactly what I think about this line of bags. What a pity he can't see my "bird" as easily as I can his, but I'm showing it right this moment just for fun ;-)

MARC by Marc Jacobs Petal To The Metal Elvie Hobo available for $498 via Saks.com

Derek Lam Spring 2010 Collection: Plenty To Smile About

Sorting through photos of Derek Lam's Spring 2010 runway collection will put a smile on anyone's face. The clothes are fresh, feminine and fierce, but the handbags are the reason for the permanent grin etched on my face. Lam's handbags have evolved from adequate to amazing designs. Ever since Lam's design team began to focus in on the detailing of the bags, their entire collections have elevated themselves to join the designer handbag big leagues.


The 'Elsa' clutch is back and clad in one of my favorite colors ever - sky blue. The 'Penelope' satchel makes several appearances in the form of a black/white leather/ostrich interpretation as well as a gorgeous electric blue ostrich version that is pure perfection. The cute little 'Nadine' evening bag gets a python-clad makeover with an interesting coloring technique who's final product resembles tye-die without the hippie vibe. My absolute favorite bag has to be, without a doubt, the stunning and sublime 'Nadia' shoulder bag. This design is also done with the same tye-die python exterior as the 'Nadine', but the results are even more spectacular because of the bag's larger size. With bags like these to look forward to next spring, it's no wonder Derek Lam is responsible for my "happy face". Thanks, Derek. I really needed a good pick-me-up.

Photos: nymag.com

Deal Of The Day: LAI Python Clutches

We all love a great deal on a fabulous bag, but for this edition of "Deal Of The Day" I've found two styles clad in gorgeous python for you to choose from. You can't go wrong with either the 'Trudy' or 'Lola' clutches from LAI. Luxury Accessories International focuses on creating modern, exotic-skinned bags with a classic feel. Some of their more notable designs like the 'Laura' tote and 'Pamela' bag are already celebrity staples. Their equally impressive clutches would make wonderful additions to any woman's bag collection. If you head over to Bluefly.com, you can select the Trudy Clutch in either purple or beige python. Reduced from $875, the 'Trudy' is now priced at a more affordable $525. A spacious exotic evening clutch for that price is insane. I almost can't believe it, but I've been staring at it for an hour so I definitely believe it's for real. If a sleeker silhouette appeals to you, take a look at the Lola Envelope Clutch available in blue or beige python. This slim but surprisingly roomy bag is priced at $350, that's 40% off its $650 retail price tag. With these prices, the only decision left to make is which style and which color to choose. Good luck with that task.

Celebrity Style: Meryl Streep and the Loro Piana Globe Bag

Wow! I'm incredibly shocked "Miranda Priestly" looks this good in real life. Let's face it, Meryl Streep is not a fashion goddess, only her The Devil Wears Prada alter ego was. Meryl has always marched to the beat of her own drum when it comes to dressing up (or down in her case). Yet the bohemian-esque Oscar winner has classed up her look with this lovely, age-appropriate outfit that is wisely accented with an elegant, timeless designer bag.

The Loro Piana Globe Bag is a meticulously crafted design comparable to any Hermés bag. Yes, ladies and gents, I'm equating Loro Piana bags to Hermés' high standards, and I'm sticking to it. Not only is the Globe Bag constructed with top notch leather, it's also pretty darn practical. There's a large front pocket perfect for frequently used items. The large open top main compartment expands to a true tote when the sides are out or can collapse inward for a more polished look. The Globe Bag is priced at $2380, up 15% from a couple of years ago. Price hike aside, it's still an amazing bag and a solid purchase for any discerning designer handbag lover. Just look what it's done for dear Meryl Streep. She sure does clean up nicely.

Loro Piana Globe Bag (medium size) available in dark brown via Bergdorf Goodman

Meryl Streep photo: Celebutopia

Nancy Gonzalez Geometric Pocket Tote

Gorgeous. Exquisite. Luxurious. Stunning. Sublime. All these words can be used to describe the Nancy Gonzalez Geometric Pocket Tote, and even they fail to adequately express this bag's true beauty. Its brilliant, metallic oil Caiman fuscus crocodile exterior is accented with an intricate, geometric patch front pocket that makes this Nancy Gonzalez design a one-of-a-kind piece. The suede-lined interior features an open top with magnetic closure, two main compartments and several smaller pockets you can use for additional storage. Measurements are 11 x 8.5 x 5.5 with a 6" handle drop. It's not incredibly large, but it can easily store all your daily essentials.

This amazing design will only be available until September 27th, so be sure to jump on this one if you're as in love with it as I am. Priced at $3250 via Neiman Marcus

Recession Shopping: Hobo International San Mateo Shoulder Bag

If the thought of plunking down thousands of dollars for a handbag in today's tough economic environment scares the you-know-what out of you, then it's time to show you how easy it has become to find a well-priced, stylish bag. The Hobo International San Mateo Shoulder Bag is a chic bag with beautiful detailing. From its black goatskin leather exterior to its distinctive shoulder strap, the 'San Mateo' is a superbly executed design that surpasses our expectations of a $298 bag. There is so much to love about this bag. The whipstitching along the lower portion of the seams is visually appealing while the strap's hardware inset is a clever design element. The 17.5" strap drop is long enough to carry over the shoulder or crossbody style, and the 15 x 13 x 5 well-appointed interior certainly provides all the storage space one could need. I tried this bag out about a week ago, and I was hooked the moment my hands touched the 'San Mateo's' supple leather exterior. While many of us fall in love with a bag "at first sight", my sensibilities have evolved to "love at first touch". Regardless of which method you use to choose your bags, a recession-friendly bag like the Hobo International San Mateo Shoulder Bag is a purchase all of us can be happy with. Available via Saks.com.

Loewe Calle Hobo

Loewe, a label favored by fashion-forward celebs like Victoria Beckham, is responsible for designing incredibly chic, modern handbags with a classic feel. A bag like the Calle Hobo can bring a little something to any outfit. Wear it with a simple maxi dress, use it to compliment a tailored work suit or class up a military-style jacket and skinny jeans. The possibilities are endless. The hobo's large, structured shape is ideal for someone who prefers big bags. Measuring 17.5 x 11 x 7, the Calle Hobo can house just about anything, but the sophisticated top handles and fold-over strap closure are enough to off-set any bulkiness. Notice the padlock embellishment on the strap I mentioned. I know I rag on padlocks as decorative elements, but Loewe actually got it right. Padlocks should look like they're serving a purpose (even if they don't), not just dangle listlessly on the front of a bag as an afterthought. The dark grey textured leather on the Calle Hobo is divine. I'm sure you're probably all sick of grey bags by now, but I look at them as being essential to any woman's wardrobe. If you're not into trendy or logo-filled bags, the Loewe Calle Hobo is an elegant alternative to what's out there. You can purchase this version of the Calle Hobo for about $2000 thru MyTheresa.com.

Fall/Winter Work Wear Essentials

Diane von Furstenberg Stretch Jersey Shift Dress - $300

Alexander McQueen Long Wool Coat - $2310

YSL Leather Gem Drop Earrings - $675

Miu Miu Zip-fastening Ankle Boots - $720

Dior Granville Handstitched Tote - $2350





These work wear selections are representative of what every woman should have in her closet for the fall/winter season. The pieces are stylish and versatile, not to mention timeless. Use the DVF shift dress over a blouse or on its own during any season of the year. Polish off this work wear look with a tailored Alexander McQueen coat during the winter, and save it for next year once spring arrives. Instead of using flashy jewelry for work, try the more subtle yet glam YSL leather drop earrings to help you stand out from the rest of your fellow colleagues. This fun pair of black Miu Miu ankle boots are a necessity for the upcoming cold weather, but can be easily incorporated into a spring/summer outfit. No work day ensemble would be complete without a great bag. The Dior Granville Handstitched Tote is a sophisticated choice for any working woman who needs her arm candy to be both chic and practical. The 'Granville's' grey color is the must-have color for fall, and it's classic enough to become as basic as black itself.

All of the selections we've chosen are expensive, but worthy investments for 2009 and well into the future. Be sure to visit Señora Cartera On A Budget to read up on our budget-friendly work wear choices for fall.

Tano Leave The Light On Shoulder Bag

The Tano Leave The Light On Shoulder Bag isn't the first metallic leather Tano bag that's caught my eye recently, but it's the only one that I can really see myself using past the fall. It's enormous at 22 x 15 x 8 which is just how I like my bags, and the bronze leather exterior is the perfect foil for fall's color palette. The haphazard ruching gives the design a casual feel while the reinforced, adjustable top handles provide comfort and functionality.

I would've loved a bag like this during college. It's spacious enough to fit a few books in addition to a smaller purse with a wallet, make up, keys and a cell phone. All I had to choose from in college were either Jansport backpacks or tacky Chanel-like bags which were all the rage in Miami during the 90s. Picture the ugliest PVC quilted jumbo flap bag possible and you'll slowly come to understand my pain during those rough, fashion-less years.

Enough about my past, though. Our present is offering us the opportunity to own a chic and relatively inexpensive bag. Now that's progress. You can pick up the Tano Leave The Light On Shoulder Bag for $375 at NeimanMarcus.com. Can you really pass up a chance to buy a bag with such a suggestive name?

Halston Henry Suede Clutch

I have a soft spot for all things "70s". The disco decade reminds me of my childhood, my mom, and some serious good times. Even though the fashions were at times ghastly and over-the-top, some designers made the 70s look and feel chic. No other designer embodied the care-free 70s better than Halston. His clothes were required attire for social gatherings or at clubs like Studio 54. It isn't surprising that his sophisticated, relaxed aesthetic is now en vogue once more. I've been satisfied with the latest crop of clothing from the legendary label, but the bags have left me wanting. Until now, that is.

I am seriously loving the Halston Henry Suede Clutch. From New York to L.A. to South Beach, this stylish clutch will get you noticed wherever you go. I'll concede the long strap is not for everyone particularly when carried over the shoulder, but there are plenty of women I know that could pull this bag off with relative ease. It's really all about the attitude, and this bag has it in a rather subtle manner. The dark blue suede exterior is gorgeous, and the square, pewter links around the end of the long tonal strap are the perfect decorative touch. It's an oversized clutch, so fitting your evening essentials will be a breeze.

There's a zebra-print ponyskin version of the Henry Clutch which is pretty horrid, so steer clear of it. Dark blue suede is the way to go for fall. You can purchase the Halston Henry Suede Clutch for $1395 thru Net-A-Porter. Over $1000 for a suede clutch is steep, but this bag is all about style. I'm willing to fork over some extra cash for a throw-back design that is this good.

Celebrity Style: Sex and the City Sequel Begins Filming

And so it begins.....
The much anticipated Sex and the City sequel began filming today in NYC and our first glimpse of SATC's infamous fashion style comes courtesy of Sarah Jessica Parker. Her alter ego, Carrie Bradshaw, is clad in a chic white dress, gold Christian Louboutin heels and carrying a beautiful Chanel clutch. As the weeks go by, I'm sure we'll be inundated with more photos from the set, and more reasons to ogle over the many designer bags that are sure to parade our way.

Photo: JustJared.com

Fendi Skunk Fur Peek-A-Boo Roll Bag

I'm sure you can guess what I think about the Fendi Skunk Fur Peek-A-Boo Roll Bag. They've taken the fabulous Peek-A-Boo bag and royally %@#*!^ it up. Who wants a skunk hanging from their expensive designer bag? If anyone answers "yes" to this question, get some help...quickly. If you care to know anything else about this hag bag, click here. If it weren't for the fur, this would've been a beautiful bag oozing style and function. Now, it's just an ugly, over-priced monstrosity (no offense to skunks or an other furry little critters).

Pre-order for $1970 thru Saks.com