Oh, to be a Fendi girl. If I were, I’d no doubt be falling all over myself in a mad rush to snag the iconic label’s fall 2012 collection. While Fendi has never done much for me, I can’t deny that this collection is surprisingly timeless – something that can’t always be said of the fashion house’s offerings. Fall 2012 brings the drama in a big way, and comes complete with the expected dark hues and vivid prints.

The Backgammon Baguette is a distinctive interpretation of the classic Fendi bag that makes a name for itself with competing materials and striking pops of red. Though it’s not easy to tell that the strap is made of python skin, the flap is very clearly of the snake persuasion. Coupled with a plush suede body that portrays a geometric backgammon pattern in surprisingly stylish fashion, the python manages to stand out only subtly. Still, the overall design is right in line with what I tend to expect from Fendi: slightly nonsensical, absurd designs with a twist of sophistication.

Those of you who truly can’t get enough of the backgammon theme need to meet the Daisy Clutch. She’s all dressed up in a coat of calf hair that’s been treated to the backgammon print. A few bugle beads stud the trim to complement the overall earthy spirit of the design. For convenience, convert it into a crossbody bag with the included, detachable patent strap.

I saved my personal best for last. The Patchwork Crocodile Pequin Baguette is a crisp, lean design that looks elegant without being too severe or mature, which it would have been if not for the multicolored flap. The low-key hues allow the exotic skin’s beautiful texture to really shine, and the added addition of a tiger-stripe plaque is the perfect finishing “stamp” of luxury.

All images courtesy Moda Operandi.

Schoolyard chic goes glamorous – and how. While borrowed-from-the-boys looks are nothing new in women’s fashion, this pulled-together MICHAEL Michael Kors School Ostrich-Effect Leather Satchel actually feels more appealing than the usual due to the faux exotic skin. Shaped in warm orange-tan leather, it’s neutral enough to go with almost anything. Available for $350 at NET-A-PORTER.

You don’t have to settle for just one case for your iPad! No, you can change it up like you do your purses each season. And there’s good news: not only can you save a few bucks on this case, you can still get it in time for Valentine’s Day. Endless.com is offering a 20% discount on $100 or more in select styles, including the Z Spoke Women’s Patent iPad Case – and what’s more, this jewel qualifies for free 2^nd day delivery! Ladies, love yourself and treat yourself to a sweet new bag as a reminder of how vibrant and incredible you are. Head over to endless.com now and you can have this shiny new red leather bag by next Monday. ($195 – $156 with the discount.)

Taking a brief respite from cutesy, Valentino goes for country-western-chic with the Rockstud Studded Canvas Tote. Had it been made of black leather, it wouldn’t be very noteworthy. In denim-like canvas, though, it defines a sort of laid-back-gone-glam look thanks to its slight sheen and a sprinkling of silver pyramid studs around the strap and trim. Not my style at all, but interesting nonetheless. Available for $1945 at NET-A-PORTER.

Need a reminder that spring is right around the corner? Pick up a Botkier Eden Small Satchel. The color-blocked medley version of this bag shows off a brilliant cobalt and lavender palette. It’s slightly unexpected, but not completely bizarre and unwearable. The lively combination works because Eden is such a structured and pulled-together bag – businesslike without being severe, ladylike with a hint of masculine influence. The minimal hardware allows the colors to stand out, too. Prefer something less extroverted? Opt for the elegant nude option. Available for $595 at Nordstrom.

It’s not that I don’t agree with the sentiment of the Juicy Couture Gen Y Bring in the Sun Tote, I’d just prefer to not emblazon my enthusiasm for warm seasons so loudly. It’s too bad about the text; it really mars this otherwise cheerful and youthful tangerine tote. But there is an upside to the situation; it’s only $88 at Bloomingdale’s.

Add this to my endless list of must-have Miu Miu purses! The Embellished Metallic Leather Shoulder Bag is far more than just a glossy companion for a night out. The wee silhouette and buttery soft leather unite to create a gorgeous statement piece that truly defines “arm candy.” The opulent strap is what really sets the bag apart; it’s beautifully adorned with crystals for a look worthy of a pageant contestant. Available for $995 at Net-a-Porter.

Usher in spring with a pop of cobalt! The updated Jimmy Choo Riki Small Shopper is a great choice for the fearless woman who has no qualms about stealing the spotlight as soon as she steps into the room. It’s impossible not to notice this bright bag – it’s practically all blue, save for a few drops of equally showy gold hardware. It’s loud and ostentatious, but would make an apt companion for a casual spring afternoon. Available for $3095 at Nordstrom.

Though Stella McCartney is a master of faux leather handbags that (usually) look authentic, she doesn’t quite succeed with her Ava Metal-Framed Faux Python Box Clutch. A Stella design it may be, but this mustard-toned box, with its phony looking python print, just doesn’t make the grade. The sturdy silhouette is right on trend, but there are many box clutches out there – and most surpass this little piece. Available for $1995 at NET-A-PORTER.

Ack! When I wrote the other day about crochet gone bad, the Dolce & Gabbana Crocheted Shoulder Bag was precisely what I had in mind. It pains me to hate on such a bold shade of green, but with the hot pink edging, this bag comes off more like “My First Crochet Project” than “My Fancy Designer Bag”. I do like the floral stitch pattern; maybe in a single, more subdued hue this bag would be cute. On the other hand, there are so many other ways to spend $1,775. Available at NET-A-PORTER.