Handbag Style Of The Week: Henry Cuir Pas de Qui Tote

Henry Cuir has long been known for creating classic handbag styles with artistic touches and "bohemian" flair. This winning combination is exemplified beautifully in the Pas de Qui Tote. With a criss-cross design element taking center stage, this otherwise simple white leather tote measuring 14 x 19 x 6.5 becomes a stylish choice for both urban dwellers as well as suburbanites. I jusy love it when a handbag can appeal to such a wide range of women. That's what makes the Henry Cuir Pas de Qui Tote my choice for the handbag style of the week.

Available via Barneys NY for $1795

MARC by Marc Jacobs Fall 2008 Collection: MJ Loves The 80s

As I browsed through the mostly ho-hum creations featured up until now during New York Fashion Week, I was literally blasted out of my chair by the chic, youthful and retro-fabulous fashions from MARC by Marc Jacobs' Fall 2008 collection. A mixture of neon colors and strong silhouettes are a throw-back to the awesome 80s.Not to worry, ladies, there is nothing "cheesy" about these looks. Even if you have bad memories of lime green sweatshirts and black tube skirts lingering in the back of your mind, Marc Jacobs' reinterpretation of the once trendy fad will certainly erase them. The lengths and silhouettes will mostly appeal to younger women, but we can all appreciate the vision and spot-on execution which brought this collection to life.

As if the fashions weren't enough to get me out of my NYFW funk, Jacobs' continues to delight MARC lovers with practical handbags that are short on excess and long on style. Revel in the complimentary neon colors, chic blacks, functional totes and feminine clutches displayed on the runway, and say a little prayer in the hopes that his signature collection will be as bold and inspired as its' younger counterpart was.
Photos via Elle.com

Lanvin New Patent Shopper

You should love this Lanvin design for a slew of reasons. First off, it's patent leather - yummy. Next up are the clever, knotted top handles that convert to a single shoulder strap and a front zip pocket for additional storage - convenient. The lined interior features an additional zip pocket as well as a cell phone pouch - just the finishing touches we gals have come to expect in functional designer handbags. With its' sizable 13.5 x 15 measurements, the Lanvin New Patent Shopper is a true "shopper" tote. It's a shame I didn't spot this beauty a few weeks ago. This bag would have made quite a statement while I strolled the stores doing my holiday shopping. Oh well, there's always next year...

Available for $1295 via Barneys

Celebrity Style: Hayden Panetierre and the Coach Gigi Leather Tote

Hayden Panetierre photo via Celebutopia
One thing I've noticed about celebrities and their handbags is the fact that most of the "IT" bag carriers are repeat offenders. Of course, I mean that in the nicest way. Take Hayden Panetierre, for instance. This young, talented actress is quickly becoming a fashionista to be reckoned with. Her designer handbag choices, in particular, are constantly scrutinized by fashion editors and for good reason. Hayden has mastered the art of incorporating designer handbags into her wardrobe that run the breadth of the designer handbag hierarchy (yep, there is a handbag hierarchy!). The petite actress looks chic carrying a Kooba or Dooney & Bourke bag just as easily as she does toting a Marc Jacobs or Balenciaga design. That's what I admire about her. She chooses bags that work for her regardless of labels or price tags. We can all take a page from her style book.

Ms. Panetierre recently proved this fashion lesson true with her crisp travel ensemble and yummy designer bag. Hayden brightened up her dark head-to-toe winter wardrobe with the clay-colored Coach Gigi Leather Tote. Who would have imagined grey could brighten up anything? Well Hayden did, and she was right on the money. Her choice of the sold-out grey 'Gigi' tote exemplifies her youthful sense of style and function. The 'Gigi' (also available in whiskey brown and black (shown)) is made from vintage-looking leather and complimented with Coach's signature brass hardware. Features include padded leather top handles, dual front flap pockets with turn-lock closures, front zip pocket, large rear patch pocket and legacy stripe-lined interior with zip, patch and cell-phone pockets as well as a convenient key ring attachment. Factor in the roomy 16 x 14 x 4 dimensions, and it's no wonder Hayden selected the practical and chic Coach Gigi Leather Tote as her travel companion.

While Hayden's tote in clay is simply divine, it's also sold-out on-line. Try your luck at the nearest Coach store or settle for the whiskey or black versions available for $658 via Coach.com.

Deal Of The Day: Neiman Marcus Designer Sale

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.

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1) Chloe Lambskin Bay Hobo
Reg: $1800..... Now: $1206 (33% off)
2) Fendi To You Suede Convertible Bag
Reg: $1595..... Now: $1069 (33% off)
3) Burberry Patent Studded Clutch
Reg: $1495..... Now: $1046 (30% off)
4) Shirò Nubuck Crocodile Bag
Reg: $12300..... Now: $7995 (35% off)
5) Bottega Veneta Woven Leather Tote
Reg: $2550..... Now: $1709 (33% off)

Deal Of The Day: LuxCouture Falling Prices Sale

Attention handbag lovers!!!
LuxCouture's Falling Prices Sale is the queen of all handbag sales this season. Sari Brown, founder of LuxCouture, has truly embraced the holiday spirit by offering handbag enthusiasts a sale that is absolutely swoon-worthy. Not only is a vast quantity of LuxCouture's inventory on sale, the sale prices are reduced every hour until the bag is sold! INSANE!!!

Some selections are already priced ridiculously low. The thought of these prices dipping as low as the temperatures across most of the country is simply mind-numbing. Do not pass up this fabulous opportunity to acquire a handbag to treasure for all time. Take Sari up on her generous sale and let the holiday spirit point you down the path to handbag heaven.
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Top Row (L-R):
Jennifer Alfano Marina Gray Serpentine Clutch
Reg: $1195..... Sale Price: $478 (60% off)
Giorgio Brato Black Studded Tote
Reg: $1015..... Sale Price: $710.50 (30% off)
Pauric Sweeney Stingray Bag
Reg: $1550..... Sale Price: $620 (60% off)


Bottom Row (L-R):
Jane August Striped Snake Tote
Reg: $2600..... Sale Price: $1040 (60% off)
Minority Printed Leather Hobo
Reg: $995..... Sale Price: $696.50 (30% off)
Jennifer Alfano Cece Shoulder Bag
Reg: $1395..... Sale Price: $558 (60% off)

Anya Hindmarch Kennedy Naplak Tote

Anya Hindmarch is killing me lately, and it's in a good way. I have yet to come across a design of hers I don't absolutely love. The Kennedy Naplak Tote is a fine example of why Anya Hindmarch handbags are hot, hot, hot! The subtle, wrinkled stone-colored patent leather tote (perfect for both Resort and Spring seasons) is dressed up with gold-tone hardware not to mention a host of exterior zip pockets. The rolled top handles and dual snap closure make for easy accessibility to the luxurious suede-lined interior which boasts pockets, pen slot and a key hook for added convenience. Measuring 13 x 13 x 5, the 'Kennedy' is the perfect size for that sassy, practical day bag we all crave. Add the relatively reasonable $995 price tag to the mix and you've got a winner. Available via Shopbop's Designer Boutique.

Deal Of The Day: Net-A-Porter Sale

Not only is the Net-A-Porter Sale worth scouring, it's probably one of the best opportunities to nab that elusive (and expensive) handbag you've been dreaming of. Peruse the handbag section carefully, and I'm certain you'll find a lovely bag that tugs at your heartstrings. I already have my eye on a stunning Jimmy Choo evening bag.

Pssst.....Hubby, dear, Christmas is just around the corner, and I've been very nice this year...
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1) Michael Kors Chain Shoulder Bag
Reg: $1095..... Now: $657 (40% off)
2) Pauric Sweeney Star Quilted Bag
Reg: $1855..... Now: $1113 (40% off)
3) Be&D Small Twiggy Patent Tote
Reg: $870..... Now: $522 (40% off)
4) Michael Kors Sutton Leather Clutch
Reg : $395..... Now: $237 (40% off)
5) Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Tote
Reg: $2780..... Now: $1946 (30% off)
6) Marc Jacobs Ines Patchwork Leather Bag
Reg: $1395..... Now: $976.50 (30% off)

Deal Of The Day: Saks Designer Sale

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.

1) Marc Jacobs Mina Elastic Quilted Bag

Reg: $1395..... Now: $976.50 (30% off)

2) Miu Miu Plisse Satchel

Reg: $1385..... Now: $969.50 (30% off)

3) Fendi Squirrel Denim Spy Satchel

Reg: $3090..... Now: $1854 (40% off)

4) Jimmy Choo Mave Liquid Patent Clutch

Reg: $975..... Now: 682.50 (30% off)

Deal Of The Day: Saks Preview Sale

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Saks.com's Preview Sale is loaded with great handbag deals. Here are just a few examples of the lovely arm candy available. Enjoy!
Click on the banner above to view all the merchandise on sale.________________________________________
Be & D Twiggy Patent Tote
Reg: $1080.....Sale: $756

BCBG Max Azria Mona Large Satchel
Reg: $458.....Sale: $320.60

Zac Posen Zoe Patent Leather Clutch
Reg: $495.....Sale: $346.50

Lambertson Truex Angie Metallic Shoulder Bag
Reg: $1595.....Sale: $1160.50________________________________________
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Fendi Sequin and Wool Embellished Tote

Stop the presses! The woolly mammoth is back from extinction. At least Karl Lagerfeld seems to think so. Perhaps the Fendi Sequin and Wool Embellished Tote is his homage to the large creature from the past. Maybe his vision was to dress up a few scraps of stringy wool with multi-colored sequined discs as a way of saying, "This is what pre-historic fashion would have looked like". The fact is, this tote bag is one of the ugliest things I've ever had the displeasure of setting eyes on. What has happened to the house of Fendi? For goodness sake, STOP THE INSANITY. Fendi handbag designs are just crazy as of late and the mere sight of this hag bag's price tag could land anyone in the mental ward. Get ready for the final straw - $7190 via Net-A-Porter.

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Resort Bags Gone Wrong: Fendi Sequined Baulotto Grande Selleria Bag & Valentino Straw and Patent Histoire Bag

Two of my all-time favorite handbag designs, the Fendi Selleria and Valentino Histoire, have received rather suspect make-overs from their respective houses for the upcoming resort season. By suspect I mean awful. Visually, they're as unappealing as a root canal without anesthesia.
Let's begin with the Fendi Sequined Baulotto Grande Selleria Bag. Fendi continues their fall collection's debacle straight into resort with this nauseating design. White zucca-print leather (alone, not bad) is covered here and there with a barrage of multicolored sequins (very bad!). There is not much I can elaborate on with this bag, The overall style remains the same. It's a shame they insist on trashing one of their best selling styles in such a manner. What's even more insulting is the inconceivable price tag - $3980 via Neiman Marcus. Wa, wa, what??? $4k for this thing? I think I just felt a virtual slap in the face.

Moving on to the next hag bag brings me to the real disappointment of the day. While I've grown to expect such heinous designs from Fendi as of late, Valentino's unnecessary re-dressing of the Histoire Bag is by far the worst offender. The 'Histoire', Valentino's hit bag last season, receives a beating in the way of combining straw and patent leather for a truly yucky exterior. I would not be caught dead on vacation with this bag. I'd rather carry a $5 fanny pack than this. Perhaps the effect would not have been so offensive if the straw exterior remained alone with some patent leather piping and top handles. Instead, the calculated use of black patent leather on the pockets, tab closure and side reinforcements gives the Straw and Patent Histoire Bag a hodgepodge look that cannot justify its' price tag - $1795 via Neiman Marcus. Since this design is only available to pre-order, I can only hope and pray no one will fall for the trappings of such a useless bag. There are plenty of other options to be had. Stay tuned...

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Salvatore Ferragamo Vitello Vernice Tote

If you're the sort of fashionable woman who manages to take advantage of resort wear in the dead of winter, then (1) I'm totally envious of you and (2) I have just the handbag for your travels. Take a look at the Salvatore Ferragamo Vitello Vernice Tote. This patent leather stunner is simple yet chic. Roomy shoulder straps, an open top and lined interior are all the features a fashionista requires of a care-free resort bag. Slip a book inside for lounging by the pool, or have plenty of room available to stash knick-knacks you come across at a quaint tropical flea market. Get into the true "resort" spirit and opt for the cheerful fuchsia version or play it safe and nab the sleek black rendition. You really can't go wrong with either one. What's even more appealing than a winter getaway or an early spring vacation is the fact that toting this classic bag won't chew away at your disposable travel money. The Salvatore Ferragamo Vitello Vernice Tote can be yours for $860 via Neiman Marcus.

Celebrity Style: Random Celebrity Handbag Sightings

Jessica Alba photo via Celebutopia
Gerard Darel Studded Havana "36-Hour" Bag
Details: Washed lambskin leather, lace-thru top handles, studded exterior, gold-tone hardware, large "36-hour" style.
Contact: Currently not available on-line
Purchase in Canada
Ogilvy
1307 Rue Sainte Catherine Ouest
Québec
H3G 1P7 Montreal
Purchase in London
GERARD DAREL
78 High Street Saint John's Wood
NW8 7SD London
+44 207 586 90 27
or visit the website for additional boutique locations.

Jessica Simpson photo via Teddy & Moo's Place
Gustto Large Setela Tote
Price: $645 via Bloomingdale's
Measurements: 18 x 15 x 5
Details: Charcoal (pictured) or black leather exterior, dual top handles, signature over-sized stud detailing, front zip pocket, zip top closure and lined interior with zip and patch pockets.

Christina Aguilera photo via Teddy & Moo's Place
Luella Bernie Bowling Bag
Price: $795 via Net-A-Porter
Measurements: 15 x 10 x 7
Details: Black pony-skin exterior with leather trim, gold-tone hardware, top handles, frame top design, front pocket with magnetic closure and double tassel decoration, rear zip pocket, zip top closure and suede-lined interior with zip and pouch pockets.

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Celebrity Style: Balenciaga Step Bag

Hayden Panetierre photo via Celebutopia
After "saving the cheerleader" last season, the cast of Heroes set out on a worldwide media blitz promoting their fan favorite prime-time series. As always, the petite and chic Hayden Panetierre did not disappoint with her choice of arm candy. The blond actress complimented her LBD with the Balenciaga Step Bag. Her selection of this fall's hit bbag color, violet, has left me, and many Balenciaga lovers, lusting after this gorgeous design.

The 'Step', Nicholas Ghesquiere's latest addition to the insanely successful "Motorcycle" line, is crafted from supple goatskin leather and features the customary "Moto" design elements - rolled leather top handles with whipstitching detail, zipped top and front zip pocket with tassel pulls, brass stud and buckle detailing, attached leather-framed mirror and lined interior with zip pocket. Measuring 14 x 10 x 5.5, the 'Step' is the ideal size for a chic day tote. You'll look fabulous carrying Balenciaga's latest creation.

The Step Bag is a tough cookie to track down on-line, though. Why? Because, technically, Balenciaga handbags are not sold on-line. You can usually find an e-tailer that will sell them after a lengthy process which involves finalizing your transaction over the phone. If you're like me and hate the hassle of such a tedious task, eBay is your best bet. I will preface this recommendation with a stern warning - BEWARE OF eBAY. Most of the Balenciaga handbags up for auction are cheap fakes. Only deal with sellers that are confirmed sellers of authentic merchandise. My personal Balenciaga "enabler", ECLuxe Boutique, deals in authentic handbags only. I own several Balenciagas (purchased from ECLuxe) and they are all 1000% authentic. Trust me, I can spot a fake one a mile away and that's no exaggeration. You can find a stunning jaune (marigold) Step Bag like Hayden's up for auction. This bag is a deal at $1095 since the 'Step' retails for $1165. Although I love the violet version, the jaune rendition is a welcome splash of color for fall and will work wonderfully next spring and summer.

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IGNES Sofia Bag

OK, ladies, get ready for a self-indulgent post on my latest handbag acquisition. The newest addition to my handbag collection comes from none other than IGNES. Feast your eyes on the Sofia Bag. I'll start off by saying the web site photo does not do this bag justice. It's gorgeous. Even my father-in-law gushed about how supple the cowhide leather is (my father-in-law does not "gush" about anything!).
The black leather is accented with just the right touches of silver hardware, and the gathered front, rear and sides are un-fussy details for any handbag enthusiast (like me) that prefers a more subdued "go-to" bag. Features include dual top handles that easily fit over the arm (and I have chunky ones). The well-appointed interior is fully lined and boasts two zip pockets as well as cell phone and iPod slit pockets and key strap. My favorite features are the convenient side pocket with hidden magnetic closure, side fastening drawstring strap and top magnetic closure. I can leave the top un-cinched but closed with the use of magnetic tabs, or avail myself of the ingenious side drawstring closure. I usually steer clear of drawstring bags because they remind me of the 80s - and not in a good way. However, the placement of the fastener on the 'Sofia' makes all the difference between kitschy and chic. Trust me, this spacious bag is as chic as they come.

Contact IGNES for U.S. pricing and availability.

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Celebrity Style: Anya Hindmarch Art Logo Tote

Reese Witherspoon photo via ICYDK
It seems the "maybe-yes, maybe-no" Hollywood couple of the year, Reese Witherspoon and Jake Gyllenhaal, have decided to make their love known to the outside world. While strolling the streets of Rome, the gorgeous duo seemed very much in love. The two lovebirds were impossible to miss, but Reese's stunning arm candy was really the star of the show. The actress has quite the love affair with Anya Hindmarch handbags. She already has the retro-inspired Lautner Bag in black patent leather with navy suede trim. Now she's carrying the sold out Art Logo Tote.

This large 14 x 12 x 6 design is crafted from navy patent leather embroidered with Hindmarch's signature logo and features gold-tone hardware, dual patent leather top handles, detachable shoulder strap, hidden magnetic closure, front and rear zip pockets and suede-lined interior with zip and patch pockets and attached key ring. The ultra-modern feel the tote exudes is balanced by its' classic lines and feminine logo detailing. What more could a gal ask for? Well, Mr. Gyllenhaal for starters!

OK, OK, before I get in trouble with my husband, here's how you can steal a bit of Reese's thunder. Nab the Anya Hindmarch Art Logo Tote for a reasonable $995 via Net-A-Porter.

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Deal Of The Day: Designer Handbag Savings at Neiman Marcus, Net-A-Porter and Saks

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1. Salvatore Ferragamo Gancio Leather Shoulder Bag
Available in metallic pewter
Regular price: $1080~~~On sale: $648 (40% off)
Via Neiman Marcus

2. Roberto Cavalli Large Leather Tote
Available in white
Regular price: $1490~~~On sale: $745 (50% off)
Via Net-A-Porter

3. Versace Mirror Hit Satchel
Available in black
Regular price: $2867~~~On sale: $2378 (18% off)
Via Saks

4. MARC by Marc Jacobs Sharpei Tote
Available in caramel
Regular price: $388~~~On sale: $291 (25% off)
Via Neiman Marcus

5. Emilio Pucci Silk Clutch
Available in lilac
Regular price: $690~~~On sale: 345 (50% off)
Via Net-A-Porter

6. Gryson Seamed Satchel
Available in burgundy
Regular price: $825~~~On sale: $495 (40% off)
Via Neiman Marcus_____________________________________
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Marc Jacobs Mercer Peet Leather Tote