Sturdy leather, a structured shape and shiny palladium hardware make the Louis Vuitton Epi Bowling Montaigne GM a handbag collector must-have. However, it's the sumptuous Cassis color that really makes this designer handbag pop. Both the Bowling Montaigne and this new Cassis hue are stunning in their own right, but together they are pure handbag magic.
This simple "Boston"-style bag, measuring 13 x 7.5 x 6, is crafted from a light brown, logo-clad canvas exterior with black leather trim and a skunk-like centered band encircling the bag. Rolled leather top handles, polished gold-tone hardware and convenient zip top closure are about the only normal attributes the "Mandeville" possesses. If you don't believe me, just focus your attention on the bullseye graphic displayed prominently on the bag's front side - as if locating the offensive design element could be a difficult task. I'm truly in awe at the use of this completely unnecessary graphic. There must be a reason for it in the designer's mind, but, frankly, I'm not interested in it. It's ugly, distracting and tasteless. It's basically ruined a fairly nice if somewhat boring handbag.
I'm back and incredibly excited about the upcoming spring handbag extravaganza. Trust me, ladies, there are a multitude of reasons to be positively giddy with anticipation. Let's start with a fashionista favorite that is sure to please. When the House of Fendi looses its' design mind and sends a slew of hideous bags our way, Fendi lovers can always count on the classic styles to save the day. Just gaze upon the gorgeous Fendi Spy Satchel done in a sumptuous pomegranate orange hue, and all fears of a totally disastrous Fendi collection will be chased away.
The Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Griet possess the timeless shape and classic details all handbag lovers can appreciate. Brass hardware, natural cowhide leather top handles and extended tab flap with push-lock closure are just a few of the 'Griet's' exceptional attributes. In addition, the roomy lined interior is divided by a zipped pocket and also has a convenient slip pocket and cell-phone pouch. Measuring 16.5 x 11 x 7.5, this Louis Vuitton satchel will serve as a sturdy and stylish "everyday" bag. I will say this about the 'Griet' - its' beautiful shape would be showcased better with another exterior. The monogram canvas is fine, but this same bag done in Epi leather with silver hardware would be simply divine. If you love the classic monogram canvas, be sure to add the 'Griet' to your Louis Vuitton handbag collection. Available for $1650 via eLUXURY's Louis Vuitton Boutique.
As the holiday sales continue, handbag lovers will benefit from steep discounts on great designs. Here are just a few samples of what's in store for you at the Neiman Marcus Designer Sale. There are many worthy selections to choose from, too many for me to list here. Browse their sale and see if there's a bag that strikes your fancy.
If Eva's Atlantic teal-hued Miranda Printed Python Satchel is not your cup of tea, perhaps the clay or sand versions possess a more alluring appeal. Available for $1200 via Coach.com. 
Be absolutely sure you do not miss out on the Saks Designer Sale. There are some great deals to be had on lovely handbags you'll treasure for seasons to come. With some selections reflecting a 40% reduction, quantities will more than likely run out soon. So hop to it, ladies. Now is the time to stock up on our favorite fashion obsession.
I know many fashionistas balk at the term "IT" bag, but when a virtual unknown or independent designer's creation becomes an overnight success (mainly due to its' appearance on the arm of an equally "IT" celebrity) the term is quite justified. What makes a true "IT" bag transition from flavor-of-the-moment to classic style is the overall design concept. Many popular bags slink back into obscurity because they were too trendy, too obvious and not very practical. One "IT" bag that escapes these tell-tale trappings is the Deere Colhoun Large Sienna Satchel.
Finding a gorgeous, affordable handbag that incorporates the latest trends without being too obvious can be quite the difficult task. Difficult, but not impossible. Women can always rely on Cole Haan to deliver timeless designs with a sophisticated look and trendy flair. Case in point - the Layla Satchel. This frame-top bag is made from python print patent leather in either luscious plum or traditional black. Boasting brushed nickel hardware, rolled leather top handles, detachable chain link shoulder strap with leather handle inset, extended leather tab with magnetic closure and lined interior with zip pocket, the 'Layla', which measures a good 10.5 x 9 x 5, is a worthy choice for any handbag collector searching for the right bag to fulfill all her practical as well as trendy needs. Pick your favorite color and nab the Cole Haan Layla Satchel for a fantastic price of $350 via Neiman Marcus.
If you're in love with Oscar de la Renta's Larrabe Metallic Python Satchel as much as I am, then this chocolate patent leather version will drive you just as nuts. The Larrabe Frame Bag is available via Net-A-Porter for a more reasonable $2695 (comparatively speaking, of course!). The rich chocolate color is ideal for fall and the patent leather exterior is about as hot as you can get this season as far as trends go. However, this stunning Oscar de la Renta satchel is anything but trendy. Its' frame top and matte gold-tone hardware are timeless details that lend this design a decidedly vintage look. I love, love, love the inverted pleating detail as well as the textured, buckled top handles. The 'Larrabe' measures a whopping 18 x 14.5 x 7 - defintely not for the faint of heart. Then again, the price recquires a strong ticker as well. Take some heart medication and add the Oscar de la Renta Larrabe Frame Bag to your handbag collection.
I adore all the curves and details on the Botkier Cleo Satchel. This large bag, which measures 15.5 x 11 x 5.5, comes in blush and a stunning smoke color. The 'Cleo's' charm lies in its' "crinkled" lambskin leather exterior, polished brass hardware, "carved" top frame, circular handles, pleated front and back panels, top and side tab detailing and expandable, zipped bottom. The logo-lined interior features zip and pouch pockets, and the hanging logo tag is removable so you can ditch it if you so choose. As much as I love everything about this satchel, the one detail that surprised me the most was its' price tag. The Botkier Cleo Satchel is available for an amazing $525 via Neiman Marcus. This gorgeous design is definitely one of the best non-sale bag deals I've come across in quite some time. Ladies, this one's a keeper.
According to Judy Garland, what lies just over the rainbow is a flock of blue birds flying swiftly through the air. If you believe in folklore, then it's a pot of gold. Now I can't speak for all of you, but I know what lies WITHIN a rainbow - cool, colorful handbags!
