Ralph Lauren The Point Saddle Messenger Bag

If you don't have a messenger bag come spring, you're just not with it. It's the hottest bag style to own, but finding the perfect one for you can be a bit tricky. If stud-embellished, fringe-accented bags or "biker chic" zipper-detailed messengers are not for you (let's face it, those sort of bags are not for everyone), you might be interested in something a tad more sedate.

This Ralph Lauren The Point Saddle Messenger Bag strikes the perfect balance between trendy and timeless. The style is very "now" but the western-like details and black leather exterior are American classics. Even the logo tag and tassels are removable, so you can make this bag look as simple as you'd like. The 12 x 15.5 x 4" interior boasts several pockets and pouches to keep all your essentials organized. I'd like to point out that the whipstitch detailing along the edges and on the strap is done in an understated, tasteful manner unlike other, more expensive designer bags that have attempted the same. Now that I have your attention, I'll give you the last bit of info that will really seal the deal for you - it's only $695. I know, I know, you can thank me anytime you like. I crave compliments just as much as I crave this bag.

On a different note, Ralph Lauren is donating 100% of all proceeds from the sale of their limited edition "Haiti Relief" polo shirts to the United Way Worldwide Disaster Fund. You can choose from several styles and colors for both men and women here. Prices range from $98-$110. This is a wonderful way to help relief efforts in Haiti while wearing something that will help spread awareness.

What to Wear With the Frosty Colors of Spring?

If you've had a chance to take in the new Spring Chanel couture collection, then you know that fashion from head to toe has taken a silvery turn. Interesting, there wasn't a bag to be seen on the Chanel runway. That noted, it's only a matter of days until Lagerfeld's icy concoctions are knocked off and trickle down into every department store far and wide. Wondering what to wear with silver?

My instinct tells me that the tried and true Proenza Schouler Medium Python PS1 Bag in white might just do the trick. $3,645.00 is a serious price so you need to be sure. {I'm sure!}



I'm also leaning toward the Alexander Wang Antik Denim Brenda Zip Chain Bag. It's a little less pricey than the PS1 at $740.



Of course the Lanvin Denim Shoulderbag falls in the middle price range of these three bags at $945. Another pretty choice that would lend a bit of sweet gravity to a silvery ensemble.

Miu Miu Large Denim Tote

The latest trend in handbags is denim as in making the bags out of it not wearing them with pants made from it. Got that? If you did, mind explaining it to me because I sure didn't. I like denim covering my rear end, not hanging off my shoulder. Miu Miu and other high-end designers labels intend for us to do so, but we can't oblige them at these ridiculous prices. Their Large Denim Tote, a huge (17 x 12 x 6), quilted carry-all, comes with a hefty $1295 price tag. Does Miu Miu believe it can charge that much for a bag made from one of the most inexpensive textiles ever to be used in the apparel industry? C'mon! Just because I like to wear denim jeans doesn't mean I just fell off of a turnip truck.

What really tops this insult of a bag off is the detailing. Frankly, the design isn't even that practical. The front flap features a crystal-embellished turn-lock closure (like we really need blinged denim bags, right?) as well as two buckled straps flanking it. These straps are, in fact, functional. You'd either have to unbuckle them every time you open your bag or simply leave them hanging undone. One choice is impractical and the other is messy. Sheesh!

This bag is an example of how, in fashion, one should pick and choose which trends to follow and which ones to pass on. I'll definitely pass on the denim bag trend, and I highly recommend you do so as well. I think we can all agree there are better ways of spending $1295.

Miu Miu Large Denim Tote available via net-a-porter.com

Eileen Fisher Woven Everything Bag

Hello there, dear. Aren't you a vision! Your classic style, simple silhouette and timeless detailing are what we've all been searching for. It's no wonder they named you the Everything Bag. You're the type of bag a model would tote to a photo shoot, and everyone would wonder which designer she nabbed it from. What those snobs would never guess is how unpretentious and inexpensive you really are. I still can't believe you would cost a mere $578. Your designers were smart cookies to keep you accessible to the masses. Great style can be affordable, and you're proof of that. From your woven exterior to your comfortable shoulder strap, everything about you says "casual and chic". Sure you're simple, but that also means you're uncomplicated. Sometimes all we want is a simple, uncomplicated bag. I'm so glad I met you, and hope to see you again soon, preferably inside my closet next to all those complicated and  pretentious designer bags I own. I'm sure you could teach them a thing or two about being "everything" to me.

Sergio Rossi Python-Embossed Sumo Hobo

I love this bag! Why? It's because the Sergio Rossi Python-Embossed Sumo Hobo exudes casual refinement for a great price. The hobo silhouette is comfortable and timeless, and the design offers just enough detailing with the use of seams and side buckles to give it a chic, urban vibe. A real python skin hobo would cost you twice if not three times as much as what the 'Sumo' will run you. The spacious 13 x 16 x 6 well-appointed interior will fit everything you could possibly think off, so go ahead and lug this beauty on your next trip and travel in style. Choose between the trendy pink version or the more elegant sigar (caramel brown) interpretation. The latter is available online for $1395 via sergiorossi.com. Call Sergio Rossi Bal Harbour (305-864-3643) to inquire about the availability of the former.

Nina Ricci Capucine Bucket Bag

Well here goes my promise about not writing any more reviews for Nina Ricci spring bags. They all fall under the category of "WTF" bags (pardon the reference), but this design is particularly horrid. The Capucine Bucket Bag, much like the Capucine Musette Bag I reviewed last week, features an awful threaded leather band along the top edges that defies all logic and taste. An open exterior pocket seems like an afterthought, and the canvas shoulder strap is just cheap-looking. The only good thing this bag has going for it is a gorgeous yellow leather body. So what would you expect to pay for this bag if you were insane enough to like it? If you guessed $2,700, you get the bag and a cupie doll from yours truly. Does it make any sense whatsoever to price this bag near the $3000 mark when the other Nina Ricci bag I reviewed was under $2000 and made entirely from leather? I think we can all agree that the answer is "NO"! I certainly hope their more appealing pre-fall bags will be priced realistically or we'll be in for more of the same insanity.

Nina Ricci Capucine Bucket Bag available via barneys.com

Eden Lun: Bespoke Bags

I'm very excited to introduce you to Xavi Gali and Cris Roca, the design duo behind the Barcelona couture label Eden Lun. When Xavi contacted me and I saw the quality of their work, I knew I had to share it with you!



Searching for the ultimate pet carrier? Look no further--Eden Lun's bespoke Kangaroo Leather Bag for Pets has plenty of lovely detailing for one lucky furball!

Edun Lun is all about the bespoke experience. They only produce around 50-60 pieces per year at their Barcelona atelier, and it's all one-of-a-kind. While the main focus of Eden Lun is fur, they also do some exquisite leather work that includes bags, pet coats, gloves, caps, and pants. I'll be writing more about their bags as we head into fall, so stay tuned!

Valentino Python Rose Vertigo Tote

Hope you have lots of $$$ available in case you fall in love with this python version of the Valentino Rose Vertigo Tote because it'll cost you 7,995 pretty pennies. As I've written before, I find the 'Rose Vertigo' to be a cumbersome design. The Valentino Petale Tote is a more comfortable, versatile design. Still, I can't overlook how exquisite the beige python Rose Vertigo Tote is. I could stare at the intricate detailing and stunning finish for hours. If it weren't for the outrageously expensive price tag, I'd give it my unequivocal stamp of approval. For those of you not confined by a more realistic budget, the python Rose Vertigo Tote makes the perfect splurge. The rest of us poor souls will make do with just looking at it. 

Pre-order the Valentino Python Rose Vertigo Tote via neimanmarcus.com

Bottega Veneta Leather Fringe Shoulder Bag

Those place mat-looking shoulder bags from Bottega Veneta's spring 2010 collection have finally made their way online. You can pre-order a maple colored version of the design at saks.com. It's no secret I was not impressed with BV's spring collection. The majority of their new designs seemed too contrived for the classic label. They've delivered the goods in the past, but the spring show marked a departure from their refined aesthetic. This particular bag would've made a gorgeous shoulder bag were it not for, you know, the obvious fringe-accented intreciatto. We're not talking 10" long fringe here, just an inch or two of leather surrounding the edges of the bag. Despite the fact that this poor design resembles a place mat more than a luxury handbag, it still has pretty good "bones". The fold-over flap has a long zippered pocket on the reverse side, and the main compartment is zippered as well. It measures 11 x 7 x 1.5 so it will definitely house all your essentials. Even the strap drop, 13" to be exact, is ideal for a comfortable shoulder bag. The detailing on the strap and the woven contrast strands found throughout the bag are fine, but not enough to distract us from the fringe. At $1980, the Bottega Veneta Leather Fringe Shoulder Bag is not a bargain. Save your money for more exciting spring bags still to come.

True West

Just like a Sam Shepard play, the myths of American life and pop culture are continuous motifs in fashion. Not surprisingly, every couple of years the cowgirl trend makes a comeback.




I always ask myself if this is really necessary. I mean fringe...really???
This season Ivy does the "is it alive?" Fringe Hobo version, while Antik Batik's Bongo Fringed Leather Bag merges two of my least favorite trends to put a boho spin on the cowgirl look.




Yet I have to admit that the classic aspects of western gear appeal to me. When the simple lines and symbols of that rough and rugged lifestyle surface, I'm always smitten. Chloe's Medium Marcie Leather Saddle Bag with it's horseshoe detailing, saddle top stitching and and classic gusseted shape has an immediate appeal.




For more western flavor, join me over at TrustYourStyle today.

Pauric Sweeney Overnight Bags: The Garish Nightmare Edition

Pardon my French, but what the heck are these things? Aside from limited edition versions of Pauric Sweeney's famous Overnight Bag, they're two garish nightmares. The first and less offensive one (barely) is the Python Camouflage Overnight. It measures 13 x 14 x 5.5 with a 11" handle drop and 23"drop removable shoulder strap. This design has always been one of my favorite understated luxury bags, but there is such a thing as going overboard. The tacky python exterior is enough to turn me off the design for quite some time, but this is, in fact, the lesser of two evils. The more serious offender comes in the form of the Tri-Panel Python Overnight Bag. Crafted from panels of silver and chestnut python as well as black nappa leather, this version of the 'Overnight' features a hodgepodge of applique accents ranging from wood to plexiglass. There's even a razor-blade pasted on in case you decide to slit your wrists once I reveal how expensive these fugly bags are. Get that blade ready 'cause the Python Camouflage Overnight is $3162 and the even more garish Tri-Panel Python Overnight is $3488. Told you that razor-blade would come in handy.

Shop these and other more or less tacky Pauric Sweeney bags via luisaviaroma.com

Spotlight On.....Lena Erziak Handbags

I've had my eye on Lena Erziak handbags for several months, but it wasn't until I received information on their spring 2010 line that I was completely smitten. This collection enjoys quite the evolution from their first grouping last fall. The sister design duo behind Lena Erziak, Leona and Hasna Erziak, are quick studies. They've refined their line in just one season. What a pity more established labels cannot do the same. Their multi-cultural background is evident in every design. These bags are full of life. They're colorful, cleverly detailed, ultra-functional and AFFORDABLE!!! That last part bears repeating - Lena Erziak bags are affordable. This label exemplifies exactly what I've been saying all along. Emerging designers are creating modern, classic designs for less. In short, the saturated luxury handbag market is creating an environment of competitiveness, both creatively and economically.

Designers like Leona and Hasna Erziak are focusing their efforts and artistic creativity and the results are on par with more "luxe" labels. Several of their designs like the Romeo Tote ($856) are works of art. Sure it's just a tote, but the detailing makes it a enviable piece. The magenta python-embossed leather version (pictured) is a total head-turner. Their signature decorative tassel is fun and frivolous yet enhances the look of the bag (unlike those padlocks on Marc Jacobs bags that are simply annoying). The stitching along the front of the bag, particularly the v-shape the dips into the tassel itself, is quite feminine. Stitching, feminine? Now that's an accomplishement. As if the beauty of the bag weren't enough of an incentive, the dual top handles are adjustable. We all love options, don't we?

Another exquisite design, the Amadeo ($844), dispenses with the tassel but still manages to keep things interesting with two front pockets made to look like coin purses. How ingenious! This design is available in pastel colors perfect for spring. Choose from blue (lovely color), lavender or light green. It doesn't matter which because you can't go wrong with any of them.

I'm also quite fond of small crossbody bags lately, and Lena Erziak offers its own interpretation of the trendy silhouette with their Davide design ($453). The fold-over flap design features stud detailing on the flap and is completely adjustable. Plus the signature tassel hanging off to one side is adorable and different.

I've been building up to my absolute favorite of the bunch, the Andrea Hobo ($575). This design, I feel, benefits the most from the use of LE's signature tassel. The 'Andrea's' sleek, elongated silhouette is balanced by the front tassel embellishment. It's also the prefect size at 13 x 12 x 2. You can fit all your essentials inside without carrying around a huge monster on your shoulder. It comes in blue or purple suede as well as metallic gold leather and the dreamy cream version pictured here. Before I forget to mention this, most of Lena Erziak bags come with a hidden coin purse inside. How practical and thoughtful of them to think of ways in which they can help keep their customers stay well-organized. It's little things like this and big things like their gorgeous designs that are reasons to give Lena Erziak a few minutes of your time. Be certain to check out their extensive collection at lenaerziak.com to truly appreciate Leona and Hasna's design sensibilities. Bold, beautiful and refreshing to say the least.

Lena Erziak's fall collection bags available online through stella-filante.com

UPDATE: The spring 2010 collection will be available on Feb. 15th at stella-filante.com. For pre-orders or questions about availability email info@lenaerziak.com

Valentino's Soft & Pretty Spring 2010 Bags

As someone who designed flowered handbags for over a decade, I'm very picky about flower detailing on bags, even from major couture houses. This clutch, using the newer washed and wrinkled leather that's been emerging for the last few seasons, has a nice, slightly hipper feeling to what can easily veer into 'old lady' territory. I prefer the washed gray to the nude leather version for the same reason.

One of my favorites from the Spring 2010 Valentino collection was this pretty soft oversized frame bag.



The lack of fine craftsmanship when it comes to embellished bags from couture houses often disappoints me, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this bag (another shot of the same oversized frame bag below). The lace detailing stitched into the leather is exquisite!



More beautiful details from this collection here if you're interested.

Photos courtesy Style.com

Jimmy Choo Embossed Leather Odette M Tote

Now here's a reason to finally write something nice about a Jimmy Choo bag, and a reason to remember why I loved the Odette Tote in the first place. After the original all-black Odette made its debut last year, the funky yet chic design took a turn for the absurd. The poor bag was subjected to ridiculous finishes the likes of which deserve to be hung on a rack at Forever 21, not Neiman Marcus. With this new version, however, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. A bright, slightly off-white light done in snake-embossed leather that beckons you over to handbag heaven. All the details that made the Odette a fun bag are still there. Now they just look more refined against the white leather backdrop. I would like to point out that even though the 'Odette M' falls under the category of "tote bag", it's actually more of a satchel (the Odette L is a true tote with more storage space and longer handle drop). It's not incredibly big, but certainly large enough to house all your essentials without appearing bulky. I actually like the smaller scale of the Odette M. It works well for this particular design. Order yours just in time for spring, and you'll be sitting pretty very soon.

Jimmy Choo Embossed Odette M Tote available for $1895 via net-a-porter.com

Tod's Python Shade Tote

It's interesting how all the items in this photo for February's Elle magazine shoot entitled "Urban Renewal" pale in comparison to the stunning Tod's Python Shade Tote placed in the rear of the shot. Sure the lime-green Longchamp python-embossed leather clutch is an eye-catcher and the Kara Ross python cuffs are to-die-for, but the Tod's Shade Tote dominates both in size and appeal. The dove-grey python exterior is heavenly. A beautiful bag for any season of the year. You'll look and feel like a million bucks carrying it, and it'll only set you back a mere $3025 (available at Tod's boutiques). OK, there's nothing "mere" about that amount, but I still want this bag in a bad way. If you're honest, you know you'd love one too. I happen to think the bag is worth that much, even if I don't have the cash to buy it. At least the 'Shade's' beauty can justify its' price. Too bad those fugly Balenciaga boots that cost the same as the Shade Tote can't claim the same.

You can purchase your run-of-the-mill leather version of the Shade Tote for $1095 via saks.com. Something is better than nothing, right?

Photo source: elle (Feb. 2010)

Nina Ricci Capucine Musette Bag

I can hardly wait for fall 2010? Why? So I don't have to look at more ridiculous spring Nina Ricci bags like the Capucine Musette. To tell the truth, the bag isn't a complete mess. Remove the giant bow at the bottom of the front flap and shrink the size of the holes along its outer seam, and you're left with a pretty nice design. I love the combination of mauve-colored leather with gold-tone hardware. It's perfect for spring, but all the other detailing I mentioned before has to go. I forgot to mention that the price tag has to go as well. They really must try and keep these bags around $1500 or so. Oh, well, I suppose I'll have to grin and bear it until these duds are finally out of sight and out of mind.

Nina Ricci Capucine Musette Bag available for $1935 via barneys.com

Trend Alert

I have one word for you. Okay, maybe two: roll on. Givenchy now has a luxury roll on debuting for Fall 2010. I'm loving it so far but haven't seen the price tag yet.



Seems this is the newest trend in luxury. Have you heard the rumors about the Prada roll ons in a rainbow of colors? Shhhh! Darn, I didn't mean to let the cat out of the bag! Let's keep it a secret just between me and you, shall we? At least until I'm back with the full scoop!

Photo courtesy Style.com.

Tickled Pink For Spring

Items in this set:
Valentino 'Premier' Shopper, $1,895
BOTTEGA VENETA PINK NAPPA BAG, 1,409 GBP
RODO RIGID CRYSTAL CLUTCH, 1.030 EUR
Stella McCartney Technical taffeta tote, $785
Botkier - Trigger Moto Clutch, $399

One can't help but notice the plethora of pink bags available for spring. From pale pink to bubblegum to hot pink, it seems we all need to be 'tickled pink'. Here are a few of the less cavity-inducing pink bags on the market.

Are you willing to jump on the "pink" bandwagon or will you take a pass on this spring trend? Do tell!

See by Chloé Grasshopper Tote

Yesterday I wrote about the need to find more affordable designer bags, and how new labels are filling that void in the retail market. How can a label like YSL expect women to pay $1200 for nylon bag when there are more affordable options available? Well here is a perfect example of the very point I was trying to drive home to all of you.

See by Chloé is fashion label Chloé's sister collection. This moderately-priced line has evolved over the past couple of seasons, and the spring 2010 showing is their best grouping yet. The Grasshopper Tote is my favorite from their new designs. It's incredibly spacious, but still chic. Several pockets are available for additional storage including a large front, fold-over flap pocket with an interesting strap/lobster clasp closure. This unexpected detail gives the 'Grasshopper' an edge other large totes lack.

The best part of this black leather tote is its price. For $675, you can have the ideal everyday bag. Sure it's not YSL, but it's also not $1200. The See by Chloé Grasshopper Tote will fulfill your needs without breaking the bank, and you'll realize you don't need a bag with a famous name to make you happy. You only need a really good bag for that.

See by Chloé Grasshopper Tote via net-a-porter.com

YSL Nylon Muse Bag

Here's the case of a good idea for a great design priced beyond explanation or reason. We all know and love the YSL Muse Bag. The idea of a practical nylon version for women that are looking for an indestructible bag capable of handling anything from heavy loads, unwanted stains and rainstorms is not new (Prada, anyone?), but still genius. I'd love a Nylon Muse Bag myself, but never, and I mean never, for $1200. With all the amazing leather bags out there priced under $1000, buying a nylon anything for this amount is absurd. As I said earlier, the idea is good, but not the price. Taking into account the label's right to hike up the price on a bag simply for carrying its name, I'd keep the Nylon Muse Bag somewhere between $600-$700. Let's not kid ourselves and expect them to offer this bag for $100. It would never happen. So we'll give them credit for branding rights as well as something for the popularity of the design and the fact that some leather is used for the handles and trim, but that still doesn't add up to $1200. It really is a pity they haven't gotten the message that nowadays pricing is crucial to success. Competition is fierce and lesser known labels are stepping up their game by churning out moderately-priced innovative designs. I have a feeling YSL will learn that lesson sooner rather than later.

Pre-order the YSL Nylon Muse Bag in black for $1195 via saks.com

Fancy Bags In The Rain

Here in "sunny California" the Golden Globes show must go on, even when it starts to rain. I thought it would be fun to review some of the prettiest bags of the bunch.

I really liked Ginnifer Goodwin's look because she wore something that was perfect for her age and yet still formal. The Leiber clutch sparkled but was subtle rather than glitzy and didn't detract from all the pretty detailing of the Vionet dress. I think at these kinds of occasions, it's always important that fashion showcases the star, and it's nice if the bag can compliment by adding quiet beauty, rather than competing for attention.

I know, you can barely decipher the Raven Kauffman clutch Diane Kruger is carrying, but that's kind of the point--why would you want to detract from this gorgeous Christain Lacroix Haute Couture gown?

Heidi Klum has amazing relationships with lots of the world's top designers and always shows up wearing something original. Since there's a lot going on with her romantic Roberto Cavalli gown and her main accessory, Seal, she keeps it simple with a shimmering soft clutch by Christian Louboutin.

I like the simplicity of Kristin Bell's look--again a small sparkly Leiber clutch to accent the more complicated Jasmine de Milo strapless cocktail dress.

So we'll leave off with my favorite accessory and I'm not talking about Elisabetta Canali's Ferragamo clutch...

All photos courtesy Style.com

New Arrivals Alert: MARC by Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 Bags Now Available Online

A quick announcement, ladies. Some of the MARC by Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 bags I previewed in December are now available online at neimanmarcus.com. Need I say more? Chic, stylish designs with great leather priced under $500. It doesn't get any better than that for handbag lovers.

Givenchy Soha Shoulder Bag

Today has turned out to be the day of bad bags. Funny how things work out that way all on their own. I certainly didn't set out to write three unfavorable reviews, but if the review fits the bag, so be it! Let's finish up the week with the Givenchy Soha Shoulder Bag. This is the case of a good design with one glaring flaw. If I mentioned the bag measures 11x 13.5 x 3.5 with a 3" handle drop, would that be enough of a clue as to what the 'Soha's' flaw is? In case you haven't figured it out yet, I'll end the suspense. How can this be a shoulder bag when it only has a 3" inch handle drop? It can't be. That's the flaw. We all know 3" is barely enough room to wrap your hand around a handle, let alone fit your arm through it. Chunky arms like mine would be totally out of luck. Which isn't to say this bag sucks. I love the design. It sort of looks like the Alexander Wang Betty Flap Bag, only better. However, the Wang bag is an actual shoulder bag with a more reasonable 6" drop. The 'Soha' just wants to be.

Shoulder bags are making quite the comeback. A design like this would be most welcome by women seeking a chic, modern shoulder bag with plenty of storage space. The bag's $1870 price tag could be justified if the bag were as versatile as a shoulder bag, but as it stands it's entirely too much for a design you can only swing around with your hand. Time to go back to the drawing board, and return with a design that can actually live up to its' name.

Givenchy Soha Shoulder Bag available via barneys.com

MARC by Marc Jacobs Macro Marc Neoprene Tobo

Let me set the scene up for you: My husband and I are walking through Nordstrom (yes, I drag the poor man on my reconnaissance trips) with the kids in tow when we arrive at the handbag department. I tell my hubby I'll only be a few minutes ("Yeah, right!" he groans). I sift through Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Valentino, Marni and Lanvin (eerie how I remember stuff like this) before I get to Marc Jacobs. I leave MJ for last because I like to start off strong and leave pissed off. That's just me. I'm a masochist.

My frustrations are usually with his more expensive namesake line, not the MARC collection. Unfortunately, I spotted this bag and wasn't immediately disgusted until I actually touched it. "Yuck!", I exclaimed (I really did say "yuck" at Nordstrom). "Well, this ain't leather", I thought to myself. It felt awful, but familiar. Then I realized what this $350 bag was made from - NEOPRENE. The stuff of wet suits and beer cozies. Say what? Seriously? I beckoned my hubby over for his opinion. Without knowing who designed it, he grabbed it and asked, "Is this stuff neoprene?" I nodded yes, and then, bless his heart, he uttered, "Bet it's Marc Jacobs". I just love him to death. I've trained him well. My husband, who knows as much about fashion as I know about the mating rituals of pygmy marmosets, guessed that only Marc Jacobs would use neoprene for the exterior of a bag.

The Macro Marc Neoprene Tobo is actually a fun design. It boasts an amazing, comfortable shape and spacious interior making it an ideal "everyday" bag. Even women who aren't fans of logo-embossed exteriors would overlook its' excessive use here if this were actual leather! Instead, MARC fans, like myself, are left to wonder if Jacobs' has seen The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou one too many times, or if he and his design team were curious to know how many of us would shell out $350 bucks for a giant beer cozie. I don't know about you guys, but I like my rubber on tires and Tupperware. Oh, Marc, you funny guy. You become nuttier by the minute.

MARC by Marc Jacobs Macro Marc Neoprene Tobo available in newsprint (pictured) and grape juice via shopbop.com

A Few of My Favorite Things: My Favorite Person Ever

My series entitled "A Few of My Favorite Things" introduced you to my favorite obsessions and my favorite foods. Now it's time to find out who is my favorite person ever. If you ask folks who their favorite person is, many would undoubtedly answer that their mothers are. I definitely fall under that category. My mom will always be my favorite person. She fostered my love of fashion, handbags in particular, and taught me from a very early age to work hard for anything I wanted. She believed nothing is out of our grasp if we put our heart and souls into attaining it.

13 yr old Queens transplant(1968); teen bride(1970); loving mom(1974)
I only had my mom around for a short time. She passed away when I was eleven years old. Even though I've spent the majority of my life without her, I've always felt her presence in it. I can't listen to a 70's song, browse through a thrift shop or go shopping for a bag without thinking of her. It's inevitable. When I was a little girl, she was my idol (aside, of course, from Andy Gibb). Her favorite things became my favorite things. Her tastes became my tastes.

Case in point. Here are a few of my mom's "favorite things" (and mine, as well) - a sequined disco tube top, vintage Gucci clutch and the ever beautiful Diane von Furstenberg. DvF was her idol, the woman she molded her style after. My mom read her book entitled "Diane von Furstenberg's Book of Beauty: How to Become a More Attractive, Confident and Sensual Woman" so many times, I lost count. In fact, she would quote it all the time. Kaftan tops, chunky necklaces and wide-bottom pants were my mother's wardrobe staples. She loved her suede fringed hobo as much as her box-shaped handbag or Gucci envelope clutch. She was an amazing disco dancer (she and my father won many dance contests in the late 70's). I would sit on our red velvet sofa for hours watching them practice their routines. In my eyes, she was a goddess. Fierce when it came to style, but sweet in ever other respect. She was, by far, the kindest human being I've ever encountered. A true "flower child" at heart. Perhaps this is the reason why, after 26 years of being apart, my mother remains my favorite person. Her sense of style and devotion to fashion were admirable, but it's her outer as well as inner beauty I'll cherish the most.

I'll be bringing this series to a close next week with my final entry about my favorite handbags, past and present. Hope you're enjoying the series. I'd love to know who your favorite person is and why, so feel free to share.

photos: images.google.com

Fendi Spring 2010 Restyled Peek-A-Boo Bag

This review has been sitting in my computer for several weeks. I've been dreading it with good reason. It isn't favorable, and I hate to write unfavorably about a bag I love so much. The Peek-A-Boo Bag was a shot of adrenaline for Fendi's unremarkable handbag line. Its' success was a sure thing what with such a classic silhouette and timeless allure. So I suppose it was inevitable that Fendi tinker with the design to keep it fresh. The restyling was subtle much like Derek Lam's work at Tod's, but I'm afraid Lagerfeld and his crew fell short of achieving Lam's success.

The changes come in the form of a new wooden top handle in the case of the red version pictured above (a Lucite-handled Peek-A-Boo was also created) and "outed" seams with stitch detailing. In an attempt to address what many have felt is a beautiful, but mature, design, Fendi has cheapened the bag. The stitching is saying, "Look at me. I'm a hip bag. Really, I am." Changing up the finishes and colors on a timeless bag like this is enough "tinkering". The vibe I got before when handling the 'Peek-A-Boo' is all but gone. The new detailing will split 'Peek-A-Boo' lovers in two groups - old school and new school. Call me a fuddy-duddy, but I prefer the original. It was perfect. Now, not so much. Adding insult to injury is the fact that the new 'Peek-A-Boo's' are insanely expensive (just for plain leather versions). Most are upwards of $4500. Forget about it!!!

Fendi Restyled Peek-A-Boo Bags (and old school ones too) now available via luisaviaroma.com

Derek Lam Nadia Hobo

Chic. Modern. Sophisticated. These are all words one could (and should) use when describing Derek Lam's latest handbag endeavor. The Nadia Hobo, from Lam's 2010 resort collection, is one his best designs ever. Sporting the same asymmetrical pocket and tassel-accented zipper as the equally enticing Davina Bag, Penelope Satchel and Elsa Clutch, the 'Nadia' manages to outshine all her other sisters with this stylized hobo shape. The bag is pretty spacious (12 x 12) and comfortable to carry on the shoulder even with its dual top handles (hear that single strap-loving ladies!). The front and side exterior pockets are perfect for keys and cellphones. For such a sleek bag, the 'Nadia' goes that extra step to offer its owner comfort and convenience. Priced at $1090, it misses the under $1000 mark most of us are aiming for lately, but the price is certainly not inflated considering 'Nadia's' butter soft leather and accomplished design. This bag is a winner any way you look at her.

Derek Lam Nadia Hobo available in black pebbled leather via shopbop.com

Pre-Fall 2010 Preview: Part 3

With the holidays officially over, 2010 pre-fall shows resumed with a vengeance. It came time for Paris to dazzle us with a bit of fashion magic. Unfortunately, I'm not dazzled. I'm not even impressed. I'm just bored. Considering this preview includes the designs of maverick Marc Jacobs, known for his envelope-pushing designs, it's surprising that I am, in fact, bored.

From the looks of Jacobs' latest collection for Louis Vuitton, fall 2010 holds more of the same for handbag lovers. This time around, he's serving up crossbody totes (the trendiest silhouette aside from the mini crossbody) in rather interesting color combinations. I find the style of the bag refreshing (for Louis Vuitton, that is) and the color pairings are fine, but that logo pattern is just infuriating. Jacobs continues to find ways to slap that LV logo on bags. Doesn't he know it's OK to make a bag for LV that doesn't say so all over itself. Guess not. I almost failed to mention Jacobs' use of knee high socks and poodle-like leg warmers for fall. Can't wait for those to make a comeback ;-)

Enough of Louis Vuitton. Let's jump to Nina Ricci. Now this should be interesting, right? More boring bags with horseshoe logos. Well, not really. Try super relaxed hobos and frilly-detailed clutches in gorgeous jewel tones. Not to mention the stunning yet sublime retro-inspired looks that accompanied them. The bags are still on the boring side, but a step up from the horseshoe ones. I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what the full Nina Ricci fall collection has in store for us. Too bad I can't say the same for Louis Vuitton.

photo source: style.com

A Bag To Make Us Emerald-Green With Envy

I'm in utter awe of Brian Atwood's latest creation for Bally. In fact, I'm emerald-green with envy and longing for this gorgeous alligator clutch. Head over to Bagpoor.com for all the details on this exquisite design.