Black Friday Specials: Saks Thanksgiving Sale

Donna Karan Zipper Clutch: Orig - $895 Sale - $537

Bottega Veneta Structured Woven Hobo: Orig - $2250  Sale - $1575

Zagliani Medium Python Puffy Satchel: Orig - $2900  Sale - $1739.90

From Donna Karan to Bottega Veneta to Zagliani, the Saks Thanksgiving Sale has some great deals up for grabs. The sale ends Saturday, 11-28-09. Be sure to use code HOLIDAY9 to receive free shipping on your entire order.

Resort Duds: DVF Hayworth Tote and Christian Louboutin Spike Studded Shopper

Hello everyone! My sweet little boy was released from the hospital, and I couldn't be happier. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal courtesy of yours truly's diligent work in the kitchen which began promptly at 8 in the morning. Now that I've had a chance to digest the large amounts of food I consumed yesterday, I'm ready to get back to business.

I wanted to address the fact that today is "Black Friday". Most of us (including me) search for the best deals on this consumer-driven day. I'll be helping you spot some pretty fab deals on bags in most price points throughout the weekend, but let's discuss a couple of head-scratching designs I came across to help take our minds off of the sales.

First up is the Diane von Furstenberg Hayworth Tote. The overall design is pretty mundane. The front patches resemble an amateur craft project while the use of multicolored topstitching is downright ridiculous. With so many bags to compete against, the Hayworth Tote is totally forgettable.

One bag that is certainly not forgettable (unfortunately) is the Christian Louboutin Spike Studded Shopper. Frankly, this is one the ugliest bags I've ever seen. The spike embellishments are so not something I'd expect to see from Louboutin, and can I just say I'd be scared to carry it for fear I might hurt myself or others. When you factor in the suede cut-out detailing on the sides and patent leather panels underneath as well as the braided top handles, you're left with a bag that has way too much going on.

You can pre-order the DVF Hayworth Tote for $725 via Neiman Marcus and the Christian Louboutin Spike Studded Shopper for an aneurysm-inducing $2995 via Bergdorf Goodman, but I'll bet you won't. My readers are too smart to do so.

Fur Friendly

The holidays are here, and with them the inevitable logistics of toting four-legged friends.



This photo of one of Marc Jacobs' Paris apartments got me thinking about traveling with pets. Obviously MJ is partial to Louis Vuitton.



One of the priciest doggie bags on the market, The Louis Vuitton Dog Bag 40 for small dogs is $1,910 and the more roomy LV Dog Bag 50 is $2,100. Water and scratch resistant, it may be chic, but doesn't seem to offer a lot of comfy support for a pooch.



If you prefer the red and green signature webbing of a Gucci tote, this one comes with a removable and washable dog pad and a short leash with a clip attached to the interior. Old school classic style will set you back $895.



If you're planning a rustic holiday celebration, the UGG Dog Carrier could be a casual and chic alternative that actually seems tailored to a dog's needs. With cozy shearling and lots of rubber mesh on the top, sides, and bottom to provide plenty of ventilation, the bag also offers a practical removable lining and pockets for leashes and treats. Weighing in at $260 this carrier would make a lot of stylish dog-lovers very happy.



Headed for the tropics? One of DWR's latest offerings, this woven pet basket is adorably whimsical with a sort of Breakfast At Tiffany's charm. Then again, I hardly think I'd tote one of my kitties much further than the front door in this baby. For $135 it will make a perfect stay-at-home statement for cats who can't be bothered to travel.

Wishing you and your loved ones safe and chic travels during the holidays!

A Brief (hopefully) Absence

I'll be out of commission for the next few days taking care of my youngest son who's battling pneumonia in the hospital. His prognosis is good, but he's very young and doctors are being cautious with his treatment. Musing about designer bags will have to wait until next week if all goes well. I'd like to wish all my readers and friends in the blogging world a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. We should all count our blessings every single day because things can change in the blink of an eye. So, folks, take care of yourselves.

-Dania


P.S. - Yes, this is a photo of an adorable baby, but he's not mine ;-)

Whatever Gets You Through The Night: More Glittery Bags

I've still got glittery bags on my mind, and since I'm heading out to the opera tonight, it seemed like the perfect time to talk about some of the best little party clutches of the holiday season.


Meet the Night In Rio Swarovski-studded clutch by Marc Jacobs. I know studs are going out of style faster than the dollar is declining, but Rocker Chic will never die. Not at $895 a pop.



How does the saying go? To err is human, to disco is divine... If you always dreamed that Diana Ross was a near and dear relative, the Crystal embellished Judith Leiber Sphere Clutch {Ball? Bauble?} has your name on it! The price tag is a bit steep: $2,495, but well worth the extravagance--just think of the dance the night away possibilities!



I find the Marano Glitter Clutch by Anya Hindmarch seriously tempting just for it's fabulous whimsical factor. But at a fairly reasonable $425, it's already sold out at Net-A-Porter. Phew, that was a close one!




Well, as it turns out, I have a little glitter up my own sleeve. The Rico Bag is my answer to the little black bag with a twist. It's got sequins on the outside and luxe ultra suede on the inside, plus two inner zips to keep change separate from the rest of your goodies. It's also my most affordable bag at $224. P.S. My line will be available shortly at MaryJoMatsumoto.com, but if you're interested please feel free to email me at at trustyourstyle@gmail.com

Red Carpet Redo: Kristen Stewart Edition

I love all things vampire. Anyone that knows me is well aware of my life-long obsession with these creatures of the night. From the classic Bram Stoker book to the more up-to-date cult favorites like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, if it's about vampires I'm there like a bear. So you can imagine how completely out of touch I feel when I know absolutely nothing about the Twilight series. Yep, that's right, I live under that famous rock everyone keeps referring to. OK, I do know a little about the plot, but I suppose the fact that these books were geared toward teenagers explains my lack of enthusiasm. As for the films, all I know is that the cute guy from Harry Potter and Jodie Foster's daughter from Panic Room are in them. So there you go, I'm a clueless dork.

Speaking about the young actress from Panic Room, I can hardly believe the grown up Kristen Stewart and her are, in fact, one in the same. After seeing Kristen and Rob Pattinson's Harper's Bazaar photo shoot, I realized this young woman has the potential to be quite the fashionista. Her body is made to wear the best high fashion has to offer. At her new film's London premiere, Kristen chose an outfit fresh from Proenza Schouler's Spring 2010 collection.

The scuba gear-inspired blouse and skirt are not my favorite pieces from this collection, and frankly, not the most flattering for Kristen's slightly boyish frame. Instead, I would've preferred to see her in one of these mini-dresses. The flouncy black overly on the indigo dress is great for the evening and works well on a square body frame. The pattern, coloring and twist detailing on the second dress would help Kristen look more sexy.

I was hoping to see the actress sporting a chic evening clutch, but I was sorely disappointed. Something like Judith Leiber's Rounded Minaudiere would be ideal. Let's be honest, there's nothing like a little "bling" to help elevate a look from just plain old chic to downright fabulous. So, ladies, keep these fun, modern Proenza Schouler dresses in mind come spring and use the remaining months to save up for one of these flashy clutches. They'll run you a mind-numbing $3000.

My Best Friend: Mary Jo Matsumoto BFF Doctor Bag

When I first met my bff, he insisted that my favorite teapot--the one I schlepped all the way back from Dharmasala--was making me sick and should therefore not be used, ever. How did he know this? Because in his daily Walter Mitty moment, he believes himself to be a doctor (he's not). All of his theories have been laughed out of the office by my real doctor, but that has not swayed him from coming to outlandish health-related conclusions. I thought it only fitting that the bag named for my bff be a Doctor's bag, in honor of his delusion.

But like most bffs, mine has many redeeming qualities. He's always there for me even when I'm being a grump. He always tries to build me up to others, truly wants the best for me, and will never sell me out for a glitzier friend or a more glamorous date. If we argue (and we do) the offender will crank call the offended until one of us laughs and our tiff is over.


Like a good friendship, a good bag has many uses--you can take it anywhere and it will quietly shine, which is why its greatest function is to make you look pulled together in every day life. Your best bag like your best friend, should be someone you can spend hours, sometimes days with and always enjoy yourself. You'll probably get get sick of them at some point but you'll always come back because they, unlike your trendier newly acquired bags, will never let you down. I designed this BFF Bag to be incredibly sturdy: it's made from the finest Italian calfskin with gorgeous but durable Italian hardware and my signature knot detail in gray ultra-suede. It will last forever if you take good care of it. It's also deceptively roomy and you can easily stash a big wallet and all your needs inside. If you leave it partially unzipped, it will even house a notebook or a rolled up magazine and look tres chic while doing so. Like a true bff, this bag is as beautiful inside as it is out, completely lined in gray ultra-suede with the big two-pocket inside detail (piped in calfskin) that's in all my bags so there's a nice place to stash your designer shades and phone without scratching them.

I think everyone needs a great dependable bag they can call their BFF. What's your go-to bag?

Señora Cartera Now Available on Kindle

If you're more techno-savvy than I am, you've probably heard of Kindle, the wireless reading device that delivers e-books and other digital media to you in less than a minute. Now Kindle is offering users the chance to have their favorite blogs auto-delivered to them with updates throughout the day. So, ladies and gents, if you've jumped on the Kindle bandwagon and are a Señora Cartera reader, be sure to add us on to your subsciption list for just $1.99 a month! If only the designer bags we love to muse about were this inexpensive.

Sale Alert: Portero's Chanel Now or Never Sale

In the mood for a classic Chanel bag, but can't swing forking over the cash for their hefty price tags? Check out Portero's "Chanel Now or Never Sale" where many bags and accessories are deeply discounted, even up to 70% off. Portero offers authentic second-hand luxury items, most of them being in good to excellent condition. I've got my eye on a gorgeous blue lambskin raised stitching single flap bag ($2565) as well as a pair of vintage faux-pearl twisted rope clip on earrings ($250). Don't sit on any favorites you might have for too long. The sale ends at 6PM EST.

Celebrity Style: Victoria Beckham's Handbag Hit & Miss

Talk about having varied tastes. Victoria Beckham is one of the most fashion forward celebrities around. Most of the time, she gets it right. Sometimes, however, she goes horribly wrong. Let's analyze Posh's handbag style from the two photos above to prove my point, shall we?

The first of Mrs. Beckham's airport pics shows the former Spice Girl clad in head to toe black, including her incredibly chic Quentin Mackay Persia Two Handle Bag. This design is classic, sophisticated and edgy - the perfect foil for Victoria's wardrobe. The 'Persia' features the designer's signature ball and claw hardware (gold-plated, no less!) as well as a timeless, dome-like silhouette. Posh can and will get as much use from this bag as she does from her extensive Hermés collection. The large 'Persia' retails for about $2850. I know that is a steep amount for leather, but we're talking about high quality materials and hardware, ladies. If the price is a budget-buster, there is a smaller version available with silver hardware for $2500. I know it's not much of a difference, but every penny counts, right? Guess I shouldn't mention the $23,500 forest green alligator version. Oops, too late ;-) All three Quentin Mackay bags can be purchased via brownsfashion.com.

Now that we've covered the best of Posh's style, it's only fair we point out one of her glaring mistakes. In the second photo above, Victoria is once again at the airport clad in black (what a surprise ;-) except for the pet she's toting her Louis Vuitton bag. Fresh from LV's Spring 2010 collection, the Fox Tail Fur Messenger Bag is one hot mess. I don't even know where to begin when speaking about this bag. It looks like it's attacking the petite singer. Poor Posh! I suppose being friends with Marc Jacobs does have its perks, but having him gift you bags from any of his spring collections is not one of them. Unless he's paying you, Victoria, I'd shove this fur ball in the back of what is sure to be your cavernous closet. I hope she never wears this thing again so I'm not forced to see it.

Note to Marc: We get it! You really like ombre detailing and dangling embellishments. Why don't you hang them from your kilt, and keep them off your designs. In case you haven't noticed, those things make your bag's ridiculously ugly.

I don't have any pricing info on the Louis Vuitton bag, but I'm fairly certain I'll never report it here in the hopes no one ever feels tempted to buy it. Yuck! In a nutshell, even Posh is prone to a few "misses" among her many "hits". Just don't answer the phone when Marc rings you up, Vicky, and you'll be fine.

Thanks to Gail and Michael for pointing out these VB sightings to me.

Photos: starstyleinc.com; popsugar.com

Lara Bohinc Lunar Eclipse Patent Clutch

Laura Bohinc's Lunar Eclipse Patent Clutch is not your basic, play-it-safe black clutch. The art-deco influence is undeniable. One look at the clutch's intricate strap closure and zipper pull tab is enough to make you pull out your credit card and buy this baby. It's the perfect companion for a LBD or evening outfit. Although I'm growing tired of patent leather, I must admit it works well with this particular design. Measurements are 10 x 6.5 x 2.5. Priced at $650, the 'Lunar Eclipse' is available via Brown's Fashion.

Celebrity Style: Ashlee Simpson-Wentz and the Chanel Stretch Spirit Cabas Tote

What's a girl to do when she gets fired finishes her run on Melrose Place? Dye her hair, join the cast of a Broadway show and sport the latest Chanel arm candy. Ashlee Simpson-Wentz dresses up her boho chic look with a Chanel Stretch Spirit Cabas Tote. This calfskin leather bag features a large Chanel logo on the front panel, the requisite chain/leather handles interlaced through the drawstring top and a wide span of stretch piping along the upper part of the tote. When I previewed this design at Chanel's trunk show earlier this year, I thought the bag was nice but nothing out of the ordinary. The "Kaiser" claims the inspiration for this design came from the classic Chanel ballerina shoe. Whatever. It's OK, but there are better, less expensive offerings for fall. The calfskin version (pictured) is also available in grey with black piping and creme with black piping. A vinyl rendition is considerably cheaper, and, frankly, it looks cheaper too. Prices range anywhere from $2000-$3000 depending on size and finish. For more information, contact your local Chanel boutique.

Photos: popsugar.com and Chanel.com

Lanvin Makes Me Happy: The Happy Sac Partage Leather Bag

I haven't been able to shake off my gold obsession this week and so I'm back with this shimmering python-stamped leather quilted shoulder bag, a holiday update on Lanvin's Partage bag. I'm aware it's very Chanel inspired, but even the copy-cat nature of the design can't make me forget about this relaxed gold quilted leather that's pure 24-karat glamour.

Would love to see it under the tree this year. What about you? What holiday bag are you pining for?

Katherine Kwei Kate Carry-all Tote

It's been some time since I took notice of a Katherine Kwei bag, and there's a very good reason why. How many knotted cord bags can one woman really need, right? The designer, known for her innovative designs and celebrity clientele, was churning out more of the same, season after season. Then I came across the 'Kate' Carry-all Tote and realized Katherine is finally evolving her design abilities and reaching an entirely new audience. With its simple shape and basic exterior, the 'Kate' relies on subtle but edgy detailing to garner interest. Contrasting wrap-around lambskin leather straps with buckle accents and Kwei's signature knotted cords are appealing and a fresh approach to using the design elements that made Katherine's bags a hit. This roomy carry-all is a perfect travel bag. You can fit all your daily essentials inside as well as a few magazines or documents if need be. Note the exterior is cotton canvas, hence the rather inexpensive $475 price tag. The grey/black version is my personal favorite, but the brown/black combo isn't bad either.

Katherine Kwei Kate Carry-all Tote available via katherinekwei.com

Spring 2010 Handbag Preview

Come spring we can expect to see the return of some of our favorite bags as well as completely new designs that are simply to die for. Here's a small sampling of the good, the bad and the sublimely exquisite from Spring 2010. I'm sure you'll all agree there is much to be happy about and much to look forward to. My favorite so far is the stunning VBH Croc Millennium Jacaranda Brera Bag with Derek Lam's Blanche Bucket Bag coming in a very close second.

The worst of the bunch has to be, without a doubt, Bottega Veneta's Umbria Bag. It was nauseatingly disgusting when it made its way down the runway, and, after a second viewing, it actually looks worse. However, I refuse to dwell on the negatives and focus on the beauty we can look forward to.

I'd like to point out a new design from Fendi, the "Skin" Bag. The concept isn't new, and the execution isn't much better. I've seen bags like this before, and I really hope someone somewhere gets it right someday down the line. The idea of a bag you can dress anyway you like is fascinating to me.

My criticism of Fendi's attempt at an interchangeable bag lies in the way the "skins" or "dresses" are actually attached to the bag. Small pegs found on the upper edges of the bag slip through matching button holes on the skins with no way of remaining hidden. They become a bit of an eye sore and detract from the skin's beauty. The samples I've seen (pictured) aren't very impressive. I know it's spring, but I'd like to see something more sophisticated than floral prints and embroidery. I'm keeping my eye out for this one when it finally arrives in stores to see what other options are available.

Source: Style.com

all that glitters: a good wallet is golden

Every time I get the chance to ask a stylish woman about her wallet, it always sparks an intense and lengthy discussion about how hard it is to find a good one. With the holidays right around the corner, I thought it would be the perfect time to talk about the merits of some of the sparkly offerings of the season.



Clockwise from top: Vivienne Westwood Pelle Nappa Wallet $192; Coach wallet $78; YSL Patent Y Mail Wallet $395; Burberry Gold Small Ziggy Wallet $395; Marc Jacobs Large Zip python-effect wallet $525; Givenchy Metallic Continental Wallet $700.

As counter-intuitive as it might sound, spending money on a wallet--the device that holds your cold hard cash--is not a bad investment. I think there's something hopeful about springing for something shiny to replace a boring plain wallet. If you need a reason to rationalize, then consider this: a wallet is something we all use multiple times a day, every day.

If you like your wallet on the petite side, check out Burberry's glittery Ziggy Wallet. Coach has a more affordable version of the cute mini square with a detachable strap that makes it holiday party worthy. For simplicity with shine, Vivienne Westwood has a nice sized wallet that won't break the bank at $192. Set on having a black wallet? The YSL Y Mail is a whimsical but timeless collectible that puts a sparkly spin on basic black, or if you'd like a more of a rocker feel, the new MJ Large Zip Python-effect wallet can provide just that. For all out glam, the Givenchy Metallic Continental trumps the bunch (with a glitzy price tag to match).




Prada: the Hollywood staple

After living in Los Angeles for over a decade, a Prada wallet rarely excites me because they're so ubiquitous--but this gold Saffiano Zip-Around version just might change my mind!


So tell me, is there a special wallet that makes your heart beat faster?

Inside and Out of Señora Cartera's Bag

In case you've ever wondered what bag I use and what accessories are inside it, head over to Mary Jo's style blog, Trust Your Style, where yours truly was part of her "Thinking Inside and Out of the Bag" series. You decide if my bag is boring or glamorous. If you'd like to be part of the series, just read the post for details on how to participate.

Valentino Shining Flower Tux Tote

I think it's fair to say that this is one of the ugliest designer bags ever made. Fashioned from sequins, beading, crystals and leather, the Valentino Shining Flower Tux Tote puts it all on the line or, in this case, on the bag with truly disastrous results. This tote is a symptom of what is wrong over at the house that Mr. Garavani built. What's even worse than all the stuff on the bag is its' egregious price tag - $4495! They need to clear the smoke in the air at Valentino, and realize that a bag like this simply will no cut it. You can pre-order this monstrosity via Neiman Marcus, but, let's be frank, you'd be insane to do so.

My Big Fat Clutch: Mary Jo Matsumoto MJM Bag

Mary Jo Matsumoto MJM bag

I love the late 30s and early 40s, it's my favorite period in design history. The look was revived in the 70s by Halston and then again by Tom Ford at Gucci, each with their own twist. I've been collecting vintage pieces from this era for over a decade and so when I recently launched my own luxury line of handbags, I had to pay homage to the big clutch that shows up in countless film noirs. Yes, this is a clutch roomy enough for Veronica Lake to slip a handgun into it--not that I'm advocating violence! It also has my signature knot detail and is made entirely from eco-friendly ultra-suede.

Each bag in my line was named after someone who inspired me during the creation of the collection. This particular clutch is shamelessly called the MJM clutch, because it's so personal to me. In fact, it's the first one from my collection that I snagged for myself and I'll tell you why. It's as roomy inside as a regular bag but I love the fact that it's such a major departure from the over-sized droopy bags we've all been hauling around for the past few years. I guess I'd have to admit that I love the pure femininity associated with a clutch. A man or a woman can schlep a big bag around, but only a woman is going to bust out a big fat clutch.

Deal Of The Day: Balenciaga Neo-Classic Besace Bag

It's a complete coincidence that a Balenciaga bag happens to be the "Deal Of The Day" a mere day after writing about another Balenciaga bag. The Neo-Classic Besace is a great bag and a solid option for those of you sick of the classic "Motorcycle" line (and shame on you if you are). The turtledove grey pebbled leather exterior is elegant and will work with almost any color. This is definitely a bag you'll get tons of use out of, and now Bluefly.com is sweetening the deal by lowering the price from $1445 to $1156. That's a 20% reduction on a style that is a current trendsetter and a pretty good seller for Balenciaga.

The single pleat down the front and rear of the bag is a wonderful design choice, and the slip buckle strap on the front flap is both modern and classic. Pewter hardware compliments the design, and a 41" detachable shoulder strap helps transform it into a great work bag.

I really want this bag, but my X-mas funds are tied up in another purchase. Here's hoping one of my readers will scoop up the last one of these left. It's a fabulous deal on a fabulous bag.

Balenciaga Neo-Classic Besace Bag available via Bluefly.com

Temperley London Zebra Canvas Shoulder Pouch

If someone were to describe the Temperley London Zebra Canvas Shoulder Pouch to me, I would laugh at such a ridiculous bag. It's no wonder I've adopted the motto "seeing is believing" because after seeing the bag, I'm actually quite fond of it.

Now don't misunderstand me, folks. I'm not saying I'd actually buy it or even recommend anyone else buy it. I'm just trying to prove a very important point about handbags - seeing a bag, especially in person, is a completely different experience from just reading about or seeing a photograph of one. I can't remember how many times I've dismissed a bag from less than stellar photos, only to change my mind after trying it on in person. I have a feeling the bag in question is just that sort of bag - sounds horrible on paper, but not so bad in real life

I happen to hate drawstring bags, but, for some reason, this one works for me. I find that the silver hardware on the leather loops and shoulder strap contrast well against the zebra print. Perhaps the fact that although this is technically a zebra print, the designers have chosen to use different colors than the expected black/white combo. The brown and blush mix is softer and less of an eye sore. The detailing on the dark brown leather strap is interesting, and the decision to make this a canvas bag and not a leather one was wise indeed. The price is low therefore making the idea of purchasing a whimsical, animal print bag more appealing.

So remember the golden rule of handbag shopping - don't judge a bag until you've seen it, touched it and worn it. You'd be surprised at how many "blah" bags will quickly earn a place in your heart and on your "must-have" list.

Temperley London Zebra Canvas Shoulder Pouch available for $600 via Net-A-Porter

Balenciaga Classic Day Bag in Pourpre

Balenciaga bags are like a bad (or good) habit I just can't seem to kick. Over the years, I've collected many of them. Every season holds the promise of newer, more fabulous colors to entice me. This fall is no different with the addition of this gorgeous hue called pourpre. I respectfully disagree with it being named 'purple'. I'd call it more of a 'scarlett' red, but that's just me. The fact is, this and pretty much any other color Nicholas Ghesquière and his design team offer aficionados year after year are stunning to behold. As you can tell from this pic of my current collection, I am more than familiar with the colorful side of Balenciaga. You should be as well. I'm eyeing the Day Bag, by far the most roomy and relaxed of all the classic B-bag silhouettes, in pourpre. If this color isn't for you, don't worry. I'm sure you'll find a color and shape you'll love.

Michael, this one's for you ;-)

Balenciaga Classic Day Bag available for $1095 via BarneysNY

Chanel: Top of the Bag Chain

Chanel Spring 2010

Now usually the word "classic" makes me want to yawn, however the Chanel Spring 2010 handbag is classic for all the right reasons. Not just because it's from a venerable design house. Or because Coco Chanel is a style icon experiencing the greatest of resurgences. Chanel gives us the perfect classic bag for Spring 2010 because Karl Lagerfeld is a mastermind genius who has brought it all together: the old, the new, the cutting edge.




Take for instance Chanel's latest little black (or white) bag. It incorporates their signature leather quilted texture and trademark rectangular shape and adds a coin-purse fusion to the mix, thus morphing into the cutest of small bags--which, if you haven't noticed, is the mega trend for spring. But of course the pièce de résistance is the timeless Chanel leather and chain handle. It cropped up on almost every runway, making this particular Chanel bag one of the season's most worthy investments. My taste runs to classic mixed with vintage and whimsical touches, so for me, this little bag checks off on all accounts.

Spotlight On.....Césaire Handbags

L-R: Josephine; Nanie; Man Bag
How is it possible this designer and her absolutely amazing collection of handbags have gone unnoticed by yours truly? My goodness, after browsing Stephanie Césaire's current and past collections, I couldn't find one bad bag among them. It seems this accessories designer, who is currently employed at Nina Ricci and Azzaro Couture, has more natural artistic abilities in her pinkie finger than most of the famous designers she's worked for (Albert Elbaz and Lagerfeld among them). And, no, I'm not exaggerating Ms. Césaire's talents. Just look at these amazing designs from her namesake label, and you'll become a believer as well.

While most of her bags retail for over $1000, there are a few selections that drop below that dreaded threshold. Price, however, is insignificant to me when discussing Césaire's genius. Most of her bags are inspired by clothing, and the resulting aesthetic is obvious in a rather subtle manner. Much like DVF's 'Wrap Bag' resembles her famous "Wrap" dresses, Stephanie's designs mimic certain aspects of the clothes we wear. Even menswear serves as inspiration for Césaire.

It's difficult for me to select a favorite among her fabulous bags, but, design-wise, the 'Grand Sellier' (pictured above, right) is probably the most sophisticated of the bunch. The detailing on this bag is elegant, edgy and ultra luxurious, and it won't break the bank either (it's priced under $1500).

I think you'll all agree that Césaire handbags are worthy of our attention. I'll certainly be keeping an eye out for Ms. Césaire's future offerings.

For more information, including pricing and customization, visit stephaniecesaire.com

*I'd like to credit handbagdesigner101.com, one of my favorite resource sites, for giving emerging designers like Stephanie Césaire a platform from which to reach all of us that love and appreciate beautiful handbags.*

Photos: stephaniecesaire.com

Celebrity Style: Lindsay Lohan and the Alexander Wang Betty Flap Bag

Let's just assume from this photo that Lindsay Lohan has a few issues to deal with, one of them being the need for a coherent sense of style. The all-black look is perfectly fine to sport, but her haggard appearance isn't helped by it. The only bright spot in this entire outfit happens to be the Alexander Wang Betty Flap Bag LiLo is carrying.

The textured leather and stud detailing we've grown familiar with from Wang's Coco Duffel is also present on the 'Betty' bag. I love the grey color. It works well on textured leather (reminds me of an elephant's skin). The long front flap is a classic, rather elegant touch and a great contrast to Wang's urban detailing. The studs are kept to a minimum (thank goodness!) allowing the bag's practical side to shine through. How does an interior which can be expanded as needed with the help of no less than four side zippers sound to you? Well, that's exactly what the Betty Flap Bag delivers.

That poor Lindsay managed to add a bit of style to her lackluster outfit with the 'Betty' is a testament to this design's simple brilliance. It's a perfect companion for the younger set. Just polish up your look a bit, Lindsay, so your bag isn't the only positive thing about it.

Alexander Wang Betty Flap Bag available for $750 via satineboutique.com

Lindsay Lohan photo: popsugar.com

Lanvin Amalia Cabas Tote

Sometimes a bag can literally make you giddy with excitement. In my case, this can happen multiple times a day every day of the week. My current state of euphoria was brought on by the vivid colors of the Lanvin Amalia Cabas Tote. There's nothing quite as striking as a red bag, and this Lanvin design, a simple one at that even with the chain straps and ribbon detailing, serves as an excellent canvas for such a sumptuous hue. Not to be outdone, the deep violet version of the 'Amalia' is equally enticing, but on a more subtle level. I've seen the all black 'Amalia' quite often, and it did absolutely nothing for me. However, these two options are calling out to me and luring me in with their siren song. I'm definitely tempted to answer their call. The diamond-patterned quilting over the supple lambskin leather exterior is a timeless touch while the chain straps and bow accents are more trendy. All in all, the Lanvin Amalia Cabas Tote is a solid design with enough thought put into it to give it the staying power shoppers are searching for in designer bags. You can find the 'Amalia' in black, as I mentioned before, as well as ecru or grey in case you're scared off by too much color. I'd recommend living a little, throwing caution (and about $1600) to the wind and adding the glorious red or violet renditions to your collection. If you do, I can promise you'll feel as giddy as I do.

Lanvin Amalia Cabas Tote in red (pre-order) or violet available via Bergdorf Goodman

The Frill of It All: Nina Ricci Spring 2010

Hello everyone! Quickly, I wanted to say how happy I am to be here as Señora Cartera has always been my favorite handbag site! As a handbag designer, part of my job is to be hyper-aware of emerging trends, styles with staying power, celeb bag sightings and more, but sadly I never seem to get around to talking about one of my greatest passions over at my blog, trustyourstyle.com. Suffice to say, I'm thrilled to now have a place to luxuriate, ruminate, and just plain obsess about handbags. So let's get to it!

Nina Ricci Spring 2010

You may recall that back in July, Señora Cartera profiled the debut of the Nina Ricci Ondine bag--a basic U shaped bag with chain and leather strap, notable for its ribbon-wrapped horseshoe and the fact that Rhianna was seen carrying it everywhere. Seems Nina Ricci is intent on staying in the limelight and put an ultra girlie pastel ruffle and bow spin on their 2010 Spring line.



I like the fact that Nina Ricci had its own take on the major bag trends for spring: the soon to be ubiquitous chain handle, the embellished body, and the big and small clutch. While there were roses at Valentino and Marchesa, the petal ruffles and pretty fabrications from Nina Ricci felt the most refreshing to me.



More good news: the general consensus is that people are tired of carting around bags that weigh more than a small sack of potatoes, as evidenced by the racks and racks of gold hardware laden Marc Jacobs bags marked down at Neiman Marcus Last Call stores across the country. Ladies, prepare to pare down your purses and get ready for some frilly light action!