Vintage loyalists no doubt already know about Edie Parker, the label that captures the essence of bygone eras and fashions it into wearable objects of art. These acrylic clutches would be right at home in any smoky lounge or socialite’s closet, yet their charm is really in their versatility. Perfect whether you’re red-carpet-bound or merely headed to an office party, these amazing clutches from the spring/summer 2013 collection are downright dreamy.

The Pearlescent Steel Jean Clutch is trimmed with silver confetti “ribbon” on the sides for an unexpected metallic twist. Even without it, the marble-like appearance of this sharp clutch would make it exceptionally glamorous. There’s something quietly sexy about this dramatic bag.

Made up of hand-cut blocks of color (so no two bags are ever alike!), the Pearl Pearlescent Triangles Jean Clutch may be the one exception to the versatility rule. That scintillating pop of sparkle transforms it from glam to glitzy – and you don’t really need glitzy at the office party, let’s face it.

If you needed proof of Edie Parker’s genius, check out the rather amazing Back Lit Pearlescent Lara Clutch. It’s been snapped open for your admiration – and mine, because I am pretty much drooling over this little hard-case clutch. The lavender/kelly green combo is entirely modern, but it’s still in keeping with the Parker penchant for retro chic.

All images courtesy Moda Operandi.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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I don’t know how many Miu Miu clutches I’ve drooled over during my lifetime, but I imagine they’re beyond counting at this point. The Studded Leather Clutch is another I can add to the never-ending list. I love a simple beige clutch at the best of times, but multicolored metallic studs and a simple center strap transform this one into something far more chic and even a wee bit tough. I’d carry this with anything from an evening gown to jeans and a dressy top. Available for $1495 at NET-A-PORTER.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Miu Miu Purses
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Always at the top of his game, Michael Kors practically defines American classic with his clothing and accessories. From the MICHAEL Michael Kors collection, the Astrid Medium Satchel adds a shot of luxe, snake-embossed leather to your look. Far from ostentatious, it conveys class and sophistication with its slightly vintage-inspired silhouette and quiet color palette. And for this price, it’s quite a deal. Available for $398 at Nordstrom.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Michael Kors Handbags
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Have you ever seen a suitcase this gorgeous? I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to buy now and book later. Of course, I’d be absolutely nuts to actually splurge on this Sophie Hulme Leather-Trimmed Suitcase, since it costs roughly the same amount as would a really fabulous trip. If I had some majorly expendable income, though, I’d be all over this sexy dark blue case. Available for $3025 at NET-A-PORTER.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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There is just something about the Sasha Tote by Jimmy Choo that mesmerizes me. I think it’s the fact that the watercolor pattern makes this tote a portable piece of art. The muted colors are soft and soothing. But besides being cool to look at, Sasha is still a purse, and the roomy interior provides plenty of space for all of your essentials and then some. You can find the Sasha Tote at Beyond This for $895.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Jimmy Choo Purses
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I love this purse so much, I would actually buy clothes to match it. There’s a commercial where a woman brings a faucet to a famous home designer and asks him to build her a house around it. That’s the way I feel about the Zoe Clutch. The multicolored bag is completely covered in beads of all shapes and sizes – even the bottom features an interesting pattern created by rows and rows of teeny tiny beads.  The bold colors of the larger stones really complete the look here.  I found this cool clutch at IGIGI for just $90.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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I hope this adorable Miu Miu Madras Shoulder Bag brings you as much joy as it brings me. This little darling is so cute and carefree, I don’t see how it couldn’t put a smile on your face! It features Madras print goat leather, a single top handle, an adjustable shoulder strap, a flap front closure with a lock, and boar leather lining. Spread the joy by grabbing one from Miu Miu for $1,450.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Miu Miu Purses
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Oh em gee – how sharp is this bag? The Sami Tote has a clean and simple design, yet it is pure elegance. Black leather trimmed in contrasting snakeskin is enough to give this bag the look of luxury. This tote will shop the designer outlet mall with you and then transition seamlessly to dinner at your favorite waterfront restaurant. Order the Sami from Saks for $628.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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Nothing says Juicy Couture quite like a bag that, well says Juicy Couture! There will be no question as to which designer your handbag came from with this boldly labeled, logo-encrusted Juicy Couture New Scottie Embroidery Daydreamer Bag. I love that this purse is so spacious and versatile; it can be used to tote around your laptop and everyday essentials, or dressed up and worn out on the town for date night. Pick one up at Juicy Couture for $198.

posted: September 28th, 2012
category: Juicy Couture Purses
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If ever there was an argument for pared-down glamour, the Alexander Wang spring/summer 2013 show is it. Minimal chic defined this luxe lineup of tailored, primarily black and white pieces. It wasn’t all spare, of course – the clothes felt somewhat sporty, and the white garments, once the light went down, glowed in the dark! And while the chunky heels and knee-high boots were probably the sexiest of the accessories, the handbags shouldn’t be ignored. Check out these attention-grabbing pieces:

I’d be remiss not to start with the Oasis Prisma Skeletal Clutch. What a work of art this is! The model who carried it down the runway wore a slashed metallic tank, a heavily textured croc pencil skirt, and beyond-hot heels with knee straps(!), so it got a bit lost along the way. Take a peek, though: it’s amazing, from its mesh bodice to its boxy base. The chain handle is detachable, so you can simply grab it if you so choose.

Far more practical (and decidedly more in line with the overall mood of the show), the Prisma Skeletal Lunch Bag is that easy go-to we all hope to have in our wardrobes. If you don’t already own one, consider this. It’s the ultimate in low-key luxury, with sharp metal trim on each side transforming it from just-another-black-bag into something far more chic.

Images courtesy Moda Operandi.

posted: September 27th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
comments: No Comments