Kate Spade has put out a chevron bag with her new Mexico City Stripe Small Harmony, but despite my love of both the brand and the stripey pattern, it all seems kind of pointless. Kate Spade is usually doing something quirky and original, and let’s face it, she’s a couple years late with the zigzag pattern. I suppose if you are committed to the pattern at this point and want to see it through thick and thin, this is the bag to go with. It’s $198 at KateSpade.com.

posted: May 15th, 2013
category: Kate Spade Handbags
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The Tinley Road Lila is literally a spin on the usual minaudiere in that it’s rotated ninety degrees. As a result, this chained bag becomes a little more utilitarian and less of a fussy evening bag. Plus, the casual shade of blue makes it easy for daytime wear with nearly anything. It’s $85 at Piperlime.

posted: May 15th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Caution! The Melie Bianco Nita is not for those who cling to neutrals. This bold purse will fit right in with the neon apparel and accessories you’ve picked up in the last year. But hop on it soon; if the fate of neon in decades past is any indicator, this trend’s return will have a short shelf life. It’s $87 at MelieBianco.com.

posted: May 14th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Here’s Betsey Johnson doing what she does best — lighthearted, feminine, fun prints. Her Hearts Tote is even a little restrained compared to her usual offerings, but the result is a quirky, easy-to-carry bag that will never really go out of style. It’s also available in red and black if you aren’t feeling so pretty in pink. It’s $98 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 14th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Basic black can easily veer into boring, but the Deux Lux Empire City Hobo adds just enough interest so that this bag will never be confused with a mom purse. It’s rock and roll without being in your face; whether you sport a punky aesthetic or have cleaned up your act a bit, it’s a versatile purse with just enough edge. It’s also available in four more fun colors. Get it for $170 at DeuxLux.com.

posted: May 14th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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I like a purse that challenges the notion that purses are “girly.” They are essential accessories, and the Sondra Roberts Grid Bead/Satin Clutch transforms perhaps the fussiest of purses — the clutch — into something sleek and tough. This purse almost has a bit of a sci-fi flair with its stark, gunmetal coloring. It’s $170 at Sondra Roberts.

posted: May 9th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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When it comes to bags that come in several colors, I have the hardest time choosing when each bag conveys such a different look. The Aldo Smoldt Satchel comes in three different shades; light green, peach (which looks more like a straightforward red to me), and white. The light green is the trendiest installment; the minty hue is maybe the least likely to hold up a few seasons from now. In red, the purse reminds me of the Mexican folk art of papel picado, and the bag’s bright floral lining adds to this festiveness. The white bag is feminine, classic, and maybe even a little bridal, but perfect for spring and summer nonetheless. Which do you like best? They’re $55 each at ALDO.

posted: May 9th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Think you had escaped the zigzag for good? Sorry. This trend is nearing toddler age and still won’t let up. Deux Lux’s Memo Tote is one of the newer ways you can flaunt the sometimes dizzying pattern. It’s available in three colors, but I’m feeling the mismatched look of kelly green, red, and peach. Get it for $130 at Deuxlux.com.

posted: May 3rd, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Kelly green and cobalt is becoming one of my favorite color combinations. It’s plenty bright and cheerful, yet still polished and maybe even a little preppy. This Caroline Clutch or Crossbody by Melie Bianco is a good example of these two colors at play. When carried as a clutch with a sharp pencil skirt, it’s all business, but slung across with its chain strap, it becomes much more casual and free spirited. For two looks in one, it’s a bargain; get it at MelieBianco.com for $56.

posted: May 1st, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Another day, another studded clutch. But have you seen one yet that reminded you so much of candy buttons? The Deux Lux Empire City Clutch offers a little more whimsy than your average studded acessory; if you love the trend but don’t think metal studs match your playful personality, try this one on for size. It’s $115 at Deuxlux.com.

posted: May 1st, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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