Tory Burch Tevin Satchel

The current economic environment is providing us with a golden opportunity to be more informed and diligent when we shop. I know most of you are busy with the demands of daily life and require sound advice when making expensive bag purchases. Wouldn't you be thrilled to incorporate a simple, chic work-horse-of-a-bag into your wardrobe for under $500 therefore saving some of your hard-earned money? Of course you would. Meet the Tevin Satchel from Tory Burch. I promise she'll treat you real good :-)

The 'Tevin' might be short on ostentatious charm, but she's certainly long on providing shoppers with a harmonious blend of style and function. The generous dimensions (14 x 14 x 7) as well as dual top handles and a long detachable shoulder strap lend this unassuming design the practical "nuts-n-bolts" budget conscious fashionistas are searching for. At a time when designer bags are being drowned in unnecessary detailing and embellishments, the Tevin Satchel shows her more expensive peers how its done - for less. I'd normally post this find on our budget site, Señora Cartera On A Budget, but I think the design itself merits a mention here. Even discerning designer bag lovers enjoy a "cheap" thrill now and then.

Tory Burch Tevin Satchel available in red or black leather for $595 via shopbop

Tune In Tonight to "On the Air With Señora Cartera" Q & A Show

A quick reminder that our latest installment of "On the Air With Señora Cartera" will be live tonight at 6:00 PM, EST. Hope you'll tune in and call with any questions you have regarding our favorite obsession - handbags! I'll be sharing my answers to a few questions we received via e-mail as well as reviewing the Chloé Louise Shoulder Bag and  Proenza Schouler PS1 Mini Messenger Bag. If you'd like to call into the show, click here just before show time and use our toll-free number to chat with us. Until then...

Jimmy Choo Daphne Clutch

"Variety is the spice of life", and the Jimmy Choo Daphne Clutch is an unexpected example of this age-old saying. Just when I thought patent leather was becoming passé, in comes 'Daphne' to set me straight. The sleek, shiny black patent exterior resembles a portfolio more than it does a clutch. It measures 9 x 7 x 2 and sports a sexy corset detailing along the sides. But the absolute best part of the design is the way you access the interior. The bag is divided into two parts, top and bottom, and they come apart like a puzzle. It's worth noting that the very design element that makes the 'Daphne' interesting is also a major functionality issue. Only the bottom half of the bag can house your essentials so don't expect to count on more than about 5" of height for just that purpose. I know, that's a pesky problem, but the bag is fresh, and a little inconvenience can be overlooked. I'm not so sure the bag is worth its $1200 price tag, though. I'll leave that decision up to your discretion. There's no denying this ultra-modern design has a decidedly "fierce" vibe that will appeal to hard-core fashionistas so pricing might not factor into the decision-making process for those of you looking for something different.

Available via jimmychoo.com

A Little Bird Told Me

Being that you are a bag-loving reader, I'm sure you can relate to the symptoms of spotting "the perfect bag". A bag so wonderful that it makes you lightheaded as your heart races, your pulse quickens and your pocketbook deflates at the prospect. And yes, I have succumbed to these sorts of dizzying palpitations after glimpsing the new Valentino Glam Bird Bag in Candy Pratts Price's latest Accessory Report. I love everything about it from the little sparkly bird perched atop this ladylike bag, which gives it an otherworldly whimsical touch, to the sweet ruffled bib under the clasp. Not to mention the crisp shape fashioned out of soft white leather--so impractical but impossible to deny the chic black and white possibilities that come to mind.

I'm not saying that this piece is for everyone, but dear bag-loving readers, I am swept off my feet by this lovely handbag and the fact that it's a Valentino is just icing on the cake!

Now I'm off to tweet about this pretty find!

Marc Jacobs Dancer Bag

What kills me about the Marc Jacobs Dancer Bag is the fact that, if you remove the tassels, the bag would be quite amazing. It has plenty going on even without the tassels. A quilted leather exterior, perforations, eyelet detailing and chain inset top handles would normally be entirely too much for one bag to take, yet this design manages to do it in a classic and sophisticated way. But then Jacobs went a ruined a good thing with an overload of tassels, and the bag went straight to hell without passing "Go" or collecting $200! Measuring 15 x 11 x 6.5, the 'Dancer' possesses the right proportions to make it an adequate day bag, but whatever the bag has going for it doesn't really matter. This walking chandelier is a lost cause. Oh, almost forgot to mention it's priced at $2500. Too bad you couldn't collect those $200 I mentioned earlier. It might have made a slight dent in such a huge (and unmerited) price tag. Kind of hard to believe Jacobs, the same man responsible for creating this fall's stunning Louis Vuitton collection (not to mention his masterful namesake collection), thought up this messy bag.

Available via net-a-porter.com

Be & D Summer 2010 Preview

Run to the nearest Saks store or other boutique that carries Be&D bags. Their summer 2010 collection has something for everyone (and in my case that "something" is pretty much everything). The well-rounded collection includes a healthy number of shoulder bags, totes, satchels and clutches, but I'll cut to the chase and reveal my top three picks from the bunch.

1) Woodstock Hobo - This design, whether it's done in leather or straw, is a chic alternative for a year-round everyday bag; it's roomy and displays enough detailing to draw attention without being overtly trendy. Leather renditions (the terracota version is pictured on the lower right corner above) range in price from $995-$1065 depending on color, texture and detailing. The new straw version (pictured above in black) is a great choice for summer (especially in SoFL) and is priced at a more affordable $795.

2) Henley Shoulder Bag - Be & D's focus on chain-strapped shoulder bags is a welcome respite from the studded satchels of the past. They've produced several winners, but the 'Henley' is by far the most "classic" design thus far. The label's use of textured leather is paired with a lone nickel push lock closure and top to bottom chain shoulder strap. The "tugging" effect many of you complained about on the new 'Genesis' bag is pleasantly absent from the 'Henley'. The taupe version (top row, third from left) is my pick for summer, but it also comes in basic black and both are priced at $875.

3) Woodstock Small Shoulder Bag - Another fab shoulder bag from Steve Dumain with the same large stud-accented belt detailing found on the hobo style. This flap top bag is deceptively large (12.5 x 8.5 x 2) and surprisingly luxe (a suede-lined interior is a nice touch). It'll work from day to night without making you skip a beat. It comes in several colors and finishes and ranges in price from $595-$1395. My pick is the faux roccia in taupe ($895). It's dreamy in person and well worth the price. If you're not into faux finishes, an authentic snakeskin doppelgänger (pictured on the top left hand corner above) is also available for $1395.

My only complaint with the collection is directly against the Genesis Bag  (top row, third from right). This is a good bag that needs some additional tweaking to get it to wear it needs to be. Just by looking at all the celebs photographed with the bag, it's obvious the "tugging" that occurs when carried by the top handle is not an attractive or acceptable result. Carrying it across the body or on the shoulder works well, but in order to be a great bag it needs to function on all levels. I'm confident this design is most definitely salvagaeable.

M Missoni Slouchy Hobo

My rather rough week (feeling under the weather, helping out at my son's pre-school and planning a birthday party) is sucking the very life out of me. My "blah" mood was quickly livened up by this affordable yet luxurious-looking M Missoni Slouchy Hobo. Its' supple tan leather exterior reminds me of a non-ominous rain cloud. This puffy slice of bag goodness features knot detailing on the shoulder strap and cut-out sides. If you haven't listened to our last "On the Air With Señora Cartera" web radio show, some of the discussion revolved around current trends which include knots. This design incorporates the trend in a large and relaxed way, and the results are fabulous. It measures 15.5 x 15.5 x 6, the perfect proportions for a practical day bag. A logo-lined interior and leather-trimmed zippered pocket round out the roomy interior. There is a rather pesky logo tag hanging from the strap, but it's removable so you can chuck it in the trash like I do. The design's most appealing features are the cut-out sides. It's a visually interesting option for an often neglected part of a bag's anatomy. The M Missoni Slouchy Hobo gets my stamp of approval for this reason alone, but the rest of it is pretty awesome. And the $695 price tag doesn't hurt either.

Available via shopbop.com

Celebrity Style: Lady GaGa Commits a MAJOR Crime Against Fashion

WARNING!!!

If you're an Hermés fan, look away or simply leave this site immediately!!!!!!

I MEAN IT!!!   LEAVE NOW!!!

THIS IS YOUR LAST WARNING!!!

You proceed at your own risk. Don't say I didn't give you ample warnings.

As much as I love Lady GaGa and admire her boundless talents, I think it's safe to say the singer has committed her fair share of fashion faux pas. Her latest crime, however, is simply unpardonable. One look at the photo below illustrates the cardinal rule every handbag lover knows by heart - NEVER WRITE ON YOUR DESIGNER BAG!!!

C'mon, writing "I Love Little Monsters" in Japanese on your expensive white Hermés Birkin bag is just about the dumbest (and juvenile) thing anyone who appreciates fashion can do. Perhaps this bag was just a drop in the bucket for her in terms of money, but the time, artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making a Birkin merits more respect than she demonstrated. If Lady GaGa wished to acknowledge her Japanese fans, taking out a billboard ad on one of the busiest streets in Tokyo would have been a more appropriate choice. I love you GaGa Girl, but this time you crossed the line. Tisk, tisk, tisk (yes, I'm wagging my finger at the screen as I write this).

Photo source: bestweekevertv

Pleated To Meet You

One thing is for sure, bags are heading towards texture. I love some of the techniques being applied to bag exteriors lately and the ruched leather effect as seen on the Fall '10 bags at Burberry is one of my favorite trends.




I think there's something sensuous and lush about their new bags that look as if they were somehow organically pleated. It's also nice that the shapes aren't too fussy--Burberry sticks with a simple half moon hobo and tote with muted bright colors and lets the fabrication do most of the talking.







Photos via Style.com

Hervé Léger Corded Saddle Bag

This is the case of a fairly interesting yet ridiculously overpriced bag. Hervé Léger, a brand best known for producing curve-hugging 'bandage' dresses, has expanded its' reach to include handbags. The Corded Saddle Bag (pictured) is a promising beginning. I like the casual saddle bag style enhanced by corded applique detailing. It's a pretty good size (10 x 10 x 4) and has plenty of length (21" strap), but I think they missed the mark by going with suede-backed canvas for the finish. Leather would've been a more challenging (and high-end) choice. When I see the corded detailing I'm definitely reminded of Léger's bandage dresses, but there is nothing remotely appealing about a canvas bag that, although interesting to look at, is priced at $1200. I'm amazed the folks in charge at Hervé Léger would think this bag is worth that much. What's even more surprising is that there were any buyers who felt the same (yes, I mean you, Shopbop buyers). The designers need to tweak this design, and most definitely re-think their pricing policy. And before anyone offers the excuse that the "cording" involves quite a bit of workmanship to accomplish therefore justifying the steep price, I'd counter that reasoning by saying "perhaps with leather, but not with canvas". I'm just not buying this design, figuratively speaking or in real life.

Hervé Léger Corded Saddle Bag available via shopbop.com

La Trend Of All Trends {imho}

Bag people, imho {in my humble opinion for you non-texter/tweeters}, are a special breed. From my experience, bag people will splurge and splurge big if there is enough bag love. They disdain that which is shoddy in quality. Sometimes they sniff at the baroque. But when it comes to an overriding trend, bag people love to be in the know. So in case you're a bag person who's been hiding under a rock, today is the day that will forever change the next 365 to 700+ days of your life. That's right bag people, there's a new trend in town...



According to my favorite street fashion photographer, Tommy Ton, whose discerning eye never misses a fashion beat, "Say goodbye to slouchy bags. The new it is small and square with a long strap, and more often than not from Celine." Click here to check out his latest photos of the chic set at the global fashion shows over at Style.com if you don't believe me.

Photo courtesy JakAndJil

Tune Into Our Live "On the Air With Señora Cartera" Q&A Show Tonight!

A quick reminder to all our readers. Tonight is our first "LIVE" On the Air With Señora Cartera Q&A episode. This is your chance to call into the show and ask any handbag-related question or share any bag concerns you may have. We'll do our best to get you the information you need to get the bag of your dreams. Don't have any questions for us? That's OK. Just call and say "Hi". It's fine with us.

Visit our show page  at 6:00 PM , EST and jot down our toll-free number. Hope you'll join us for some fun and informative designer handbag chat. Until then...

Salvatore Ferragamo "Pockets" Hobo

Spring is here and summer is fast approaching (as my poor sun-burnt neck and shoulders will attest to). What better time to add a nice white bag to your collection. I happen to love white bags even if they're a pain in the you-know-what to keep looking clean and presentable. If you can manage to achieve this almost impossible task, then a white bag should rank high on your list of upcoming purchases.

The Salvatore Ferragamo "Pockets" Hobo exudes the understated elegance associated with Ferragamo while the relaxed shape of the hobo and the clever hidden gancio knockers on the front pockets provide a hint of modern sophistication lacking in past SF designs. The leather exterior is amazingly soft and supple, and the crisp white color is the "brightest" white I've seen this season. I'm sure you'll agree with me when I say that the latest crop of Ferragamo bags are a vast improvement from just last season. This design showcases the subtle changes taking place in regards to Ferragamo accessories. Instead of shoving the gancio "knockers" on the front pockets in your face, they provide slits to slip them into. Voila! A Ferragamo bag that isn't overtly 'Ferragamo'.

This won't be just a pretty white bag that looks great but isn't very practical. The 14 x 13.5 x 3 dimensions provide more than enough space to house all your daily essentials and then some. My only complaint is, once again, the limited drop space from the single top handle. C'mon, give us at least 7" on these handles. Think of the chunky girls!!! We have money to spend, too. My petite or average size readers will have no problem with the shoulder clearance, and the hobo's reasonable $1150 price tag just about seals the deal.

Available via saksfifthavenue.com

Deal Of The Day: YSL Bow Bag

How is it possible I never reviewed the YSL Bow Bag on Señora Cartera? What an oversight! I'm ashamed of myself, if I'm being honest. The lovely Bow Bag, most famously seen on the arm of Dita Von Teese, is one of YSL's most well-executed bag designs. The bows are reminiscent of those found on a gift box, and although the folds are large in scale, they do not overpower the design. The designers employ the seams along the bow as well as one down the center of the bag to create the label's iconic "Y" logo. Of all the versions I've seen, my favorite is the stone grey leather bag Dita rocked last year. This shade of grey serves as a practical neutral backdrop for the design's masculine bowler style and spacious interior (16.5 x 11.5 x 5.5) while the bows give it the perfect feminine touch. This is a great go-to bag for the woman that wants to project a more sophisticated workday persona without looking stuffy. I mean, how uptight can you be if your bag has a pretty bow on it?  If you act now, you can score this sublime beauty for $1436 (about 20% less than retail) on bluefly.com. Don't dilly-dally, though. There's only one of them left!

When Bags Meet Art

Borbonese, a century old Italian fashion house known for their handbag collaborations with Fendi, Valentino, Ungaro, and Yves Saint Laurent, is presenting their Art Bag Anniversary Collection with the Roy Lichtenstein Foundation.

I like the red leather piping, minimal use of tasteful hardware and simple construction on the Borbonese Lichtenstein Two Apples Tote, but I'm not sure how I feel about the screened Lichtenstein on a bag--after all, I've never been big on the "turn this outfit into a room" features in interior magazines and blogs. To me there needs to be a clever element in order to make the art-to-fashion transition work, and this bag is a straight ahead slapping of an image on a bag. That said, if you are a die-hard Lichtenstein fan, then this bag might be worth checking out. While Lichtenstein's paintings go for millions, you can have this bag for $787 at Luisa Via Roma.

Jerome Dreyfuss Perforated Leather Tote

One of my favorite current trend in handbags is the perforated leather finish. It's a great way to spruce up an otherwise boring bag. My heart still lusts after the YSL perforated leather tote I featured back in October. In fact, every time I see it sitting on a shelf at Saks, I must take it out for a spin (the poor SA that sees me do this must ask herself why I just don't buy the stupid thing!). Trust me, if my handbag budget would allow it, that bag would have been on my arm a very long time ago. What drew me to the safe black tote was the perforated exterior. But even my unwavering affection for the YSL design cannot keep me from agreeing with others that the bag is a bit slim to fit the copious amounts of stuff I drag around on a daily basis. That's why I began a search for a roomier perforated leather bag, and I actually found one that is, dare I say it, better than the YSL bag I've been longing for.

The lambskin leather Jerome Dreyfuss Max Bag in cognac caught my eye a few weeks back, but that was when I was completely unaware a perforated leather version existed. Snap!!! Now they're speaking my language. The über-functional but rather pedestrian design gets a much needed kick in the you-know-what with an all white perforated leather exterior. Now the light-hued suede strap that sort of bugged me on the cognac iteration compliments the white leather beautifully. Now the overly-thick leather I questioned on the cognac bag appears chic and refined on the "perf" one. The difference between one bag and the other is quite remarkable. The "perf" bag not only possesses the same functional elements as the lambskin leather version, but it also has what was missing from the cognac bag - an understated modern elegance with a touch of pizazz.

I should mention all the "functional elements" I alluded to earlier. Dual top handles and a hobo-like strap offer two carrying options, and the multi-carrying option is a major trend in handbags. It's like getting two for the price of one. The bag has two large front zippered pockets, and zippered sides that allow the bag to expand to a whopping 7". That trumps the YSL by a country mile (sorry YSL). The Max Bag measures 17 x 13 x 7 (when fully expanded) and the top handles have a 5" drop while the shoulder strap offers a more comfortable 10" clearance.

If you're skittish about incorporating the perforated leather trend into your bag collection because you're scared the trend won't last, forget about it. The out-of-season rules simply don't apply when you're dealing with a bag like this. Think of the perforations as a print, not embellishments. Sequins and studs may become passé in a couple of seasons, but this particular trend can and will stand the test of time as long as the design it's used on is classic enough to pull it off. With the exception of trendy exotic finishes which will NEVER go out of style, the "perf" trend is your next best bet to be trendy without looking like a fashion victim in the near future. You can purchase either version discussed here via lagarconne.com, but, remember ladies, be adventurous and opt for the "perf" bag ($1120).

On the Air With Señora Cartera

In our never-ending mission to bring you the latest information from the designer handbag world, we've decided to climb up the communications ladder by taking Señora Cartera to the radio. Now you'll be able to get up-to-the-minute bag news and reviews via or web radio show, On the Air With Señora Cartera.

Our weekly Monday shows will provide readers an opportunity to get a brief recap of all that's hot in the bag world as well as giving you a sneak peak of what you can expect to see on www.senoracartera.com. We'll also have bi-monthly episodes dedicated to answering our reader's questions submitted via e-mail or live on the show! That's right. You'll have the chance to call into the show and ask us any bag-related questions you may have. It's a great way to seek and receive advice on an upcoming bag purchase or just to decide which bag you'd like to buy next.

If you'd like us to address specific bag questions or concerns, send us an e-mail with your question(s) to senora_cartera@yahoo.com and be sure to mention that you'd like us to answer it "on air". Our "live show" dates for the month of April will be this Friday, April 9th at 6:00PM EST and Friday, April 23rd at 6:00PM EST. Visit our show page on those dates and call in to chat with us, even if you just want to say "hello". In the meantime, you can listen to our first re-cap show as well as our first Q & A episode on blogtalkradio.com.

Hope to meet you soon "On the Air". There's nothing like bag lovers getting together to talk about their favorite arm candy. Until then...

Nicole Ritchie, Bag Designer? We'll See About That

There is nothing more exciting for a bag blogger than happening upon a new designer with a fresh approach to bags, but we tend to be a bit jaded when the up-n-coming talent is a celebrity. Don't get me wrong, though. I'm a fan of Nicole Ritchie and the native-American inspired jewelry from her accessories brand, House of Harlow 1960. However, the moccasins and printed cardigans from this collection and her clothing line, Winter Kate, are more of an acquired taste. I'm interested to see which direction Nicole will take with her handbag collection for HOH 1960 when it debuts next spring. While I'm hopeful we'll see some leather offerings, I'm afraid all we'll end up with are heavily embellished ethnic designs. There's nothing wrong with that, but it's nothing new. We'll see if Nicole is any good as a bag designer, but I'm not holding my breath over it.

Source: wwd.com


Photo: celebritysmackblog.com

Señora Cartera's Advice to the Stars: The Kelly Cutrone Edition

As many of you may already know from my "These are a Few of My Favorite Things" series, I'm an avid reality show fan. I realize many of these "reality" shows are, in fact, scripted, but one series I have a feeling is all real is Kell on Earth. The show centers around fashion PR maven Kelly Cutrone and her tribe of eager employees as they weave their way through the ins and outs of photo shoots, press events and the all-menacing fashion week.

I recently picked up Kelly's book If You Have to Cry, Go Outside: And Other Things Your Mother Never Told You. Anyone who wants to enter the world of fashion or just gain insight into the work ethic of one ballsy business woman should pick up a copy of Cutrone's book. I admire a great many things about this woman, but what I most identify with is the boundless love she shows her daughter. In the cut-throat world of fashion and fashion PR, Kelly is the chief barracuda. Don't mess with her, her business, her "tribe" or her money, but, mostly, don't mess with her Ava. It's the sweet and honest mother/daughter dynamic we saw week to week that should serve as a lesson to all women - you can be a smart business woman with a tireless work schedule and still make those few moments you have with your children worthwhile and memorable. I applaud Kelly for the incredible example she sets for those she trains in her office and that beautiful little girl she's "training" for life.

Now that I've shamelessly plugged my favorite book of the moment and extolled the virtues of Kelly Cutrone, I will, as always, make this about bags. By now you know I watched the show to check out who was carrying what. I noticed that Kelly really likes her large, black totes. I can only imagine her bag is brimming over with everything from documents to a pair of spiky heels. That's right, ladies. New York women use their bags as practical wardrobe transporters and Kelly, while a unique soul, is still one of millions of women working in the Big Apple.

Since Kelly will never seek style advice from any of us bag bloggers seeing as she's styled hundreds over the years, I'll offer her some unsolicited advice. Stick to your big black bags, Kelly. They really do suit your style. I can suggest a couple of bag that will keep you looking effortlessly chic while still offering much-needed functionality.

Ann Demeulemeester's convertible tote done in buttery soft black cowhide leather is both a tote and a messenger bag all rolled into one. The simplicity of the design and the lack of an overly-embellished exterior will compliment pretty much any look in Kelly's wardrobe. This bag, priced at $1795, is a working gal's best friend, and, when you're friends bail, you can always count on a well-constructed designer bag to keep you company.

My second choice, and one with a bit more "oomph" to it,  is the Leather Hainet Bag from Martin Margiela. This framed top bag from MMM's spring/summer 2010 collection is a rather nondescript design except for a netted front panel that serves to break up the monotony. This bag is my particular favorite, and I have a feeling it would be Kelly's as well. Priced just over $1100, the Martin Margiela bag is sensible and practical, but has a cheeky side to it as well. Yep, this one is just what Kelly needs.

*Kelly, if you end up reading this, I'm sending you and your lovely daughter lots of positive energy. You inspire many women and mothers (myself included)  both in the world of fashion and the world in general. Keep taking over the world, my dear. Here's hoping the cameras are there to capture it all so we can cheer you on.

Light vs. Dark Or The Case Of The Big Flip Flop

No question, the beautiful detailing and easy neutral color of Donna Karan's Bandito bag makes it well worth the price. I like the soft shape, the drawstring style, and the extra care that went into the folded ruffle which adds just the right amount of umph without being fussy. But in this season of the nude shoe, I find myself strangely hungering for a tougher bag--okay, I'll admit it--I'm wanting a fierce black bag to temper the saccharine colors of spring.



I realized this when I surprised myself with a love-at-first-sight reaction to Alexander Wang's Rocco Mini Studded bag...it's everything I'm secretly longing for: a wildly flat out bad boy bag that's just as luxurious as it is rebellious.



Then again, I have been eyeing the Proenza Schouler PSI Medium Satchel for months now and can still see making this my summer bag...oh the joys of flipping and flopping over fashion!

What bag has your heart pounding this season?