Now there’s an idea: match your lipstick to your designer handbag! Cameron Diaz hit the scene in London last week, with a lovely little deep coral-hued Bottega Veneta Montaigne purse to match her rosy pout. I love woven handbags, and there’s no denying that Bottega Veneta is tops when it comes to finely crafted arm candy. But most of all I love that orangey-red hue - so unexpected and yet so fun.

Photo from JustJared.buzznet.com.

I’ve always been something of a Bottega Veneta fanatic, and I may or may not have recently taken a lengthy detour during a business trip to visit one of their outlet stores. Some of the label’s designs are admittedly on the very plain side, but even in those cases the magnificent woven leather more than makes up for it. This Sunset Leather Clutch falls somewhere in the middle. It’s a prism of earthy, understated hues and it’s destined to pair beautifully with things like airy cotton sundresses and flat sandals. But my first thought was really just…eh. They have and will continue to do much better than this. If your style inspiration is generally low-key and natural, this may suit your needs. Available for $1650 at Net-a-Porter.

I have always wanted a Bottega Veneta handbag. I’ve put off the purchase because I always find something brighter, with more immediate sparkle that grabs my attention. Bottega Veneta’s leather is a dream, and their bags are definitely the workhorse type. What I really like are the designs, which are always simple, but have depth thanks to BV’s woven leather technique. The bags are iconic and versatile, and now that it’s available in metallic, I may just have to take the plunge this season. The Bottega Veneta Metallic Woven Hobo is a everything the classic BV bag promises to be with a kick of shine thanks to the metallic leather. Lined in suede the bag is luxury at its best, and has the price tag to prove it.

The Bottega Veneta Metallic Woven Hobo is available at saks.com and retails for $1,950.

Click here to see more

It seems like my Bottega Veneta wish list grows by the bag each month. While I’m not wild about the color palette of this Leather Intrecciato Bucket Bag, I love the weaving’s intricacy - it’s impressive in person and really stands out. It’s ideal if you’re going for that beach-chic look that will garner you more than your fair share of envious stares, but you’d have to make peace with the fact that it’s $4200 first. Considering it’s versatile enough to carry all through spring and summer, the bag be worth it for a select few. Available at Net-a-Porter.

It’s here guys and gals! The Bottega Veneta sample sale and it kicks off today. Go early for deals on the label’s classic woven leather bags, and there will also be gobs of clothes, shoes and small leather goods. It makes me want to relocate to NY!

Bottega Veneta
January 8-10, Th-Sat 10-6
697 Fifth Avenue
(54-55 Streets) 3rd Floor
Womens & Mens Clothing and Accessories
Sample & stock sale

Bottega Veneta’s fabulously sharp collections - womens and mens ready-to-wear, shoes, bags and other accessories. Credit cards only.

In case the appeal of the classic Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Clutch has ever been lost on you, the label invites you to take a closer look at the newest incarnations of the bag. In mouthwatering, color-crazy shades that have an undeniably youthful spirit, the clutches suddenly look more playful and fun than ever before. This green apple version is a great example. It will pair beautifully with spring’s florals and lighter garments. Add it to a mute colored ensemble for an unexpected burst of cheerfulness - it will throw the whole thing off in the most fabulous way. Also in orange. Available for $1150 at Net-a-Porter.

You can’t blame Bottega Veneta for going the animal print route after churning out so many simple (albeit ridiculously glamorous) handbags. This Leopard Print Montaigne Limited Edition Bag embraces the brand’s fondness for woven leather but gives it a touch of the wildlife. It’s attractive, but I think I’d prefer to see something brighter and more lively if they’re going to do prints. This is quite somber - and I’m not sure how many of us will pay $5500 for somber! Available at Bottega Veneta.

The chic animal print is understated and low-key on this Bottega Veneta Zebra-Stripe Woven Hobo. The perfect choice for anyone who loves a touch of wildlife in their attire but doesn’t want to make big, loud statements, this slouchy bag is made with woven nappa leather and adorned with zebra stripes. In my world, animal prints need to be loud and obnoxious to really work as an accent with otherwise understated ensembles, but someone in search of the opposite will find it in this well-constructed purse. Available for $2380 at Neiman Marcus.

As the previous owner of Bottega’s signature woven tote, I can say they just do not last. Some part of the weave always wears thin and the leather edges start to look worn well before the bag hits its 1st anniversary. It is a sad state, as Bottega offers some of the most beautiful bags out there. I also love that this brand has developed a look that has no self endorsement on any of its product. It is a unique combination of signature style with no signature logo. But my disappointed in shelling out a few thousand to then have to discard the bag with yesterdays trash left me broke.
This seasons Atene Ayers Bucket Bag (otherwise known as the Origami Leather tote at net-a-porter.com) in Fall Red, however, has forced me to consider investing again. The elegant origami folding and stitch work leads me to believe the edges will not fray (as they are finished with snake skin leather binding). Also the folds are all seamed inside, so nothing can catch and pull your bag apart. I must say, this bag is breath taking and may just last for a few years without pulling my heart out.
Origami leather tote available at net-a-porter.com for $3950

Bottega Veneta, Christian Louboutin, Chloe, Jimmy Choo…just those names alone are enough to send our fashion-loving hearts atwitter. But throw in an extra 20% percent off and we’re ready to swoon. Well, get those smelling salts ready, gals: Net-a-Porter.com is hosting a Summer Clearance sale on select designer purses, shoes, and clothes, letting you save even more moolah on already discounted styles. Just use code “SUMMER” at checkout and the price will drop by 20%. Offer good until August 31st. Shop the sale now at Net-a-Porter.com.

Jimmy ChooRamona metallic leather bag
Was $3,500
Now $2,100 40% OFF

Chloé Large Bay leather tote
Was $1,970
Now $1,379