Diminutive it may be, but what the J. Crew Floral Fantasma Clutch lacks in size it more than makes up for in detail. The imaginative design incorporates beads, bows, sequins, paillettes, gems and flowers, all in varying and very vibrant colors. It’s one of those rare purses that is easily dressed up or down – it looks adorable during daytime with a simple jersey dress, but also serves as a great alternative to traditional evening bags. With its bold exterior and equally brilliant orange interior, it’s guaranteed to brighten up any look. Available for $128 at J. Crew.

posted: June 30th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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There’s something so refreshing about this tote bag that you’ll probably feel about ten degrees cooler just carrying it. Made in Italy by Luana, the Nina Twist Lock Leather Tote Bag is available in three other colors (white, blue and yellow) but the mint, shown above, is my favorite pick for summer. It’s pretty much Totes 101 here with all of the basic requirements covered: nice size (around 17” wide by 9” high), the inside is divided with a zippered pocket, and the simple twist lock closure keeps your treasures safe and sound. You can carry this tote by the handles or swing it over your shoulder. You will definitely look cool and who knows, you might just feel a little cooler too. Available at Forzieri for $351.

posted: June 30th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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Is there anything quite as timeless as a smooth leather hobo? Probably not, if this Cole Haan Raleigh Hobo has any influence on the matter. As sleek and practical a bag as you could possibly want, it goes everywhere with ease and is available in multiple colors that work well whether you’re a sucker for bold shades (bright blue and raspberry) or stick with neutrals (black, white and gold). No matter what the choice, it’s safe to say you can’t go wrong with this bag. It will pay for itself in no time. Available for $348 at Cole Haan.

posted: June 30th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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Say goodbye to boring ol’ totes being sported around college campuses! The Juicy Couture Gen Y Toile Tote is perfect for that glamorous Gen Y girl you know. This stylish tote features a classic toile print with a funky twist. Plus it’s also super functional with a double shoulder strap, magnetic closure, inside zip pocket and cotton lining. Pick yours up at Saks for $78.

posted: June 30th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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Floral motifs remind me of my darling, but fashion-challenged, Granny – and, along with neon green rain bonnets and faux leopard skin swing coats, are something I tend to avoid. However, I do like this Lodis Violet Diva Clutch Wallet. True, the pattern may be a bit on the twee side,  but the colors are bight and lovely and I big time dig the water color texture of the flowers. Then again, perhaps  I am really just craving a huge hunk of Gran’s peanut butter fudge and my taste is being swayed by nostalgia. Either way, the clutch is pretty and I kind of want to find out what a “Violet Diva” is and how to become one. This slim charmer is going for $128 at Nordstrom.

posted: June 30th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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Leave it to Judith Leiber to create something that is both so beautiful and so out there at the same time. It might not be ideal for day use, but the Judith Leiber Wildcat Crystal-Embellished Clutch would be great for formal events when you want to stand out in a crowd. This beautiful little purse can either be held in your hands or slung over the shoulder thanks to a gold chain that can be tucked away inside the bag when not in use. Adding to the functionality of this clutch is the tiny vanity mirror on the inside, which will help make sure you stay put together throughout the night. Available at Net-a-Porter for $5,495.

posted: June 29th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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Matt & Nat isn’t exactly an unknown label, but it also doesn’t quite receive the celebration is truly deserves. The brand specializes in eco-friendly bags that are as chic as they are ethical, and that alone makes it worth the mention. A great example of what they do best: the Scrilla Nappa Handbag, a smart, toughened up everyday bag made of 100% vegan leather and lined with pink faux suede material. A smattering of gold studs lends it an edgy touch, but it’s definitely appropriate for everyday use. Available for $255 at Matt & Nat.

posted: June 29th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
comments: 1 Comment

If someone tried to mug you while you were carrying this Givenchy Elschia Sac I’m fairly certain you could take an eye out with a well-aimed swipe across the assailant’s face. Or the unbridled rage of someone trying steal this beauty away from you would create an impenetrable force field. Either way you’re walking away the victor. The ferocious gold stud detailing adds an edgy contrast to the soft, slouchy silhouette of the purse. Supple and simple smooth black leather was the right choice in materials – something more elaborate would have been too fussy paired with the studs. Another small but key feature is the dip under the strap – it’s the pits when hobos this big have a space the size of a TicTac where your arm is supposed to go.  If you’re loving this satchel get while you can – it’s one hot ticket and is already selling out. Pick it up at MyTheresa.com for $1,207 (Regularly 2,400).

posted: June 29th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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You’ve gotta love the color of this bag! Buti chose this vibrant color for their Topaz Croco-embossed Leather & Bamboo Bag. The pattern of this hobo style import is broken up into large squares offset by smatterings of croc-inspired panels on the front and sides. A touch of bamboo on the handles lightens the look from a regular hot leather bag to one that can work for spring and summer. The topaz exterior is complemented by the canary yellow suede lining which includes a small zippered pocket perfect for lipstick and mirror and a cell phone compartment. A silver twist lock closure and silver clip-on links for the handles top off the polished look of this bag. Made in Italy it is available from Forzieri for $453.

posted: June 29th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
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I’m pining for this gorgeous, Italian leather, Sequenza Nath Portfolio Clutch! It has a breathtaking exotic, earthy vibe, that I can’t get out of my head. I feel like this clutch and I, are meant to be! It would be a dream come true to own one in both colors it’s available in, and yet I’d feel absolutely complete with either the sharp, well defined black or the mellow, entrancing natural.  Regardless of the color you choose, you’re sure to emit sleek sophisticated style with this purse in your hand! The textured over-flap gives this bag just the right amount of bold and is the hook, line, and sinker for making it a must-have in my book! Snag yours at Zia Moda for $414.

posted: June 29th, 2010
category: Other designer Handbags
comments: No Comments