Reese Witherspoon is known for toting the most understated, yet pricey bags ever. From her Lanvins to this new black woven Bottega Veneta hobo, Witherspoon is never calling attention to herself by way of handbag. And I must say that’s pretty refreshing. Of course, when you have a good lookin’ boy like Jake Gyllenhaal on her arm, it’s a little tough to wear anything that might upstage him.

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Photo: celebutopia.net

Now how about THAT for luxury? All of my experience with drawstring backpacks usually involved punch high school gym clothes or college laundry in a cotton or nylon bag. Bottega Veneta however, has transformed this dorm room staple into an upscale, Italian-made, intricately woven item for $3480 (Available at Barney’s). It seems a shame to carry such humble items of my school days in such finery now, unless you upgrade to a cashmere blanket and silk pajamas for your girlfriend’s sleepover.

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The famed Bottega Veneta Knot bag has been interpreted in many ways over the years. At times it’s been casual yet refined, other times dark and dramatic, sometimes low-key and colorful. The Quarzo Chario Intrecciato Knot definitely falls into the latter category. With its fresh orangey-coral hue and silver lizard trim, it has a fun, bold vibe that’s not too overstated. Great for a night out that doesn’t demand too much but still allows you to look red carpet-worthy, it’s a classic that will remain an active part of your wardrobe for years. Available for $3950 at Bottega Veneta.

Jennifer Aniston may have a budding new romance in the works with John Mayer, but when it comes to style she still favors tried-and-true classics. Case in point: Her black woven leather Bottega Veneta purse. While the handbag earns top style marks for its detailed craftsmanship and dark beauty, I can’t help wishing Aniston would break out of her fashion shell a little bit - a little colorful sundress here, maybe a studded leather bag there. Until that day comes (if it ever does), though, she’ll do just fine in her streamlined, if not a tad conservative, black uniform.

Photo from People.com.

Oh, boy…so you know we’re in sale season when boutiques like Bottega Veneta are slashing prices. OK, maybe not quite slashing, but you can expect to save about 30% off the label known for their chic woven leather handbags. It’s usually fashion colors that go on sale, but because BV is so elegant and churns out neutrals every season, there’s sure to be a few staple colors available…if you shop early. This is at Bottega Veneta stores only, not leased departments at larger stores, so selection will be plenty. Call now if you know what you’re interested in, to land a stellar purse at a better price than retail.

I pine, I dream, I plan for the Net-a-Porter sale and it’s finally here! Yesterday, while I was supposed to be 1) working and 2) scouring the internet and writing up this second installment of Luxe For Less, I was shamefully oooohing, ahhhhing and clicking away at NAP’s offerings. While I’ve since relinquished my credit cards to my much more sale-stoic BF for safekeeping, I’m happy to report that there are still designer handbag bargains to be had! My pickings at NAP:

This Vivienne Westwood Gloucester Lapin Bowling Bag for $1,460.

I kid, I kid! I’ve lost my self-respect this sale season, not my mind! In case you’re not sure how I feel about this bag, read my previous review.

This Jimmy Choo Mona Large Tote.

While many of us are familiar with Jimmy Choo’s fantastically chic and uberly sexy stiletto heels, his foray into handbags has been a little less well-received. The Ramona garnered followers but his later bag designs lacked the same break through. This Mona Large Tote offers up the same aesthetic sense that made Choo the household name he is: strong lines with an undeniable femininity. In a classic tote shape, this Mona Tote will lend itself to practicality, without sacrificing appeal. But wait! You didn’t mistake those zippers for mere ornamentation, did you? In a pinch, this tote unzips down the middle to reveal a roomier, more fabulous self. Genius! At the original price of $1,995, it was an investment. At the lower, NAP sale price of $1,396, it’s still an investment, but you’ll feel less bad! ;o)

Also at the NAP sale, this Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Butterfly Clutch

Of the major handbag designers, Bottega Veneta is arguably the most unassuming and under-appreciated. I find that fans of Bottega love the cache that comes with carrying a bag only recognizable to other fans, and will keep coming back to the designer for more timeless pieces. There’s a reason: the leather used by Bottega Veneta for pieces such as the one I’m recommending is buttery, rich and heavenly sumptuous. Touch a Bottega Veneta bag and you’ll understand what I’m talking about — there are just no words. Couple that with impeccable workmanship and elegant, timeless designs and you’ll glimpse the reason for Bottega’s following. A great way to discover a designer’s potential without mortgaging your home? Small leather goods! This clutch in the signature woven design, will serve many purposes (evening purse, Sunday brunch clutch, makeup bag) and will last you forever… and turn you into a Bottega convert. Trust me. Originally $770 (worth every penny! One of my favorite clutches is a 10 year old BV one!) but a steal at $385!

Of course, when one retailer has a sale, many follow. Nordstrom is one such place. My pick from their very limited selection:
This Juicy Couture Link All Night Hobo

I’m not normally a Juicy Couture fan, but this bag has the makings of a classic — shocker for JC! While I can’t vouch for their quality personally, I’ve heard that their bags do stand up to mid-range snuff. So I’m going out on a limb and recommending this classic hobo. Stark white may not seem practical but it actually is a sound investment — it coordinates with most other colors but provides a very tailored, chic contrast. The gold toned links add a little more depth and eye interest. At 40% off the original price of $395, this $236 bag may be worth the risk.

And lastly, this Marc Jacobs Striping Tote

I realize I brought you a Marc Jacobs recommendation in last week’s Luxe for Less, but this deal is so good, I couldn’t not recommend it. This is the Marc Jacobs Striping Tote, launched in late 2005-early 2006. It remains one of the most coveted lines by Marc Jacobs. Personally, I think it may be his best line and own more than a handful of pieces from it. While the Hudson, a satchel, was the most popular from the Striping Line, this Tote may be the least recognized. It is a medium-large handbag that may be carried as a satchel, a tote or a messenger with the detachable strap. I find this design very practical and wish I had picked it up when it was still available. Long discontinued, this tote rarely pops up on eBay, and never in this condition. And never at this unbelievable price! This bag passes my own smell test on authenticity. Pick it up at just $545 BIN!

As always, if you’re looking for something in particular that you think I might be able to help with, drop me a line in the comments. Check back next Tuesday for my Luxe for Less picks! Happy shopping!

Bottega Veneta offer a fresh interpretation of the classic signature brand with the new Cervo Illusion Metallic Hobo. Circular patches are woven into the deep gray-brown leather, while rich braided handles offer some balance to counter the bag’s heaviness. Use it as a chic everyday carryall. It does the job perfectly, and with that unusual neutral color, it’s definitely more striking than the average tote. Available for $2,800 at SaksFifthAvenue

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Easily putting other clutches to shame, this elegant Bottega Veneta Butterfly Knot is an artistic, graceful purse with a huge presence. The simple butterfly design and knot clasp are done in aged brass, which is a perfect partner for the blush-toned leather. This solid clutch feels surprisingly luxurious to the touch, and its old world charm is just irresistible. The equally lovely Farfalle Knot features a slightly different knot clasp and a simple ivory hue. Both are available for $3600 at Bottega Veneta.

Is there anything cuter? Reese Witherspoon has been a favorite actress of mine for years but my opinion of her soared during her very dignified and decent departure from her unfaithful husband. That she seems to have found a decent guy who looks like he dotes on her in Jake is proof positive that good things come to good people. Here they are, looking all lovey-dovey, coffee in hand, for an afternoon stroll. Reese carries a medium Veneta purse to compliment her laid back attire. Pick one up through Bottega Veneta’s site for $1,490.

Photo courtesy of PopSugar.com

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Summery and relaxed, a large white tote is the perfect everyday carryall when the weather heats up. It matches everything, it complements the season perfectly…how can you go wrong? Well, this Bottega Veneta Illusion Tote is certainly a step in that direction. Though I am an obsessive fan of almost all things Bottega, this tote doesn’t impress me at all. It’s bland with its attempt at “illusion,” which, in case you hadn’t guessed, involve the rounded woven insets - they’re supposed to look like falling coils. In other words, boring. Available for $2600 at Neiman Marcus.

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