Referencing Cannes automatically makes me assume the very best about anything: I think glitz, glamour, glitter and sunshine. But a glance at the DKNY Cannes Tote with Web Handles actually gives me pause – and maybe even reason to rethink my previous stance. Sure, it’s a cool beach bag, but if I were actually headed to Baoli Beach this would probably be last on my list of potential picks. The effect is just earthy, minus the chic factor – and you’ve gotta look chic if you’re doing Cannes! Available for $155 at DKNY.

posted: May 23rd, 2013
category: DKNY Handbags
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It’s not quite the bag of my dreams, but I suppose a case could be made for the Kate Spade Santa Rosalia Scout Crossbody. Intricately embossed with a deep floral pattern that resolutely transforms simple tobacco-toned leather into something far more visually intriguing, the bag is certainly worth a second look. It’s got an earthy, almost Native American appearance, and is also available in a spicy cinnamon orange hue. Available for $348 at Kate Spade.

posted: May 23rd, 2013
category: Kate Spade Handbags
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The Chloe Bracelet Hobo Bag is a far cry from the solid-color, rectangular-shaped Chloe bags I’m used to. It’s more like something you’d pick up while traveling or popping into an offbeat, hole-in-the-wall type of shop. But who says we can’t be novel and unorthodox while rocking a designer handbag? Coated in earth tone stones and topped off with cut-out details on both sides of the handle, judgment of this hobo bag is really a matter of taste. If you like the rustic look, dress in neutral hues, and hate looking dull, then checkout The Luxury Closet and make it your own for $626.

posted: May 15th, 2013
category: Chloe Purses
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I long ago arrived at the realization that Zac Posen will forever be a champion for women’s dresses, but less a master of truly amazing, stop-traffic handbags. Nothing wrong with that, but I realize he should be lauded for what he really does best. Still, the Z Spoke Zac Posen Eartha Crossbody Foil Croco has a little edge that makes some of his other designs – and certainly other croc-embellished options – pale in comparison. The nutty color, intricate foil texture and lithe chain combine to form a compact yet powerful piece that makes a nonchalantly chic statement. Available for $325 at Piperlime.

posted: May 10th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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The fact that this isn’t adorned with all manner of crazy embellishments means that the House of Harlow Addison Snake-Embossed Clutch ends up being an independently gorgeous bag all on its own – it’s not a poor man’s Leiber or McQueen by any stretch. In fact, I may like this more than many of those labels’ creations, if only for the fact that it’s so effortlessly able to punctuate an evening look without resorting to heavy-handed dramatics. The sparkling jaguar closure offsets the snake-print leather perfectly, lending it just enough dressy appeal to make it a great choice for evening. Available for $225 at Neiman Marcus.

posted: May 2nd, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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How I love Michael Kors. Even the plainest designs somehow look interesting thanks to his skilled hand. From his MICHAEL Michael Kors collection, the Large Jet Set Logo PVC Duffle Bag is all set to accompany you on your wildest summer adventures – that trip to Europe, the annual beach trek with the girls, the family trip to Disney, whatever. It’s as spacious as you’d expect of a travel bag, and it’s sturdy enough to support heavy loads without weighing your look down. Available for $48 at Neiman Marcus.

posted: May 1st, 2013
category: Michael Kors Handbags
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Is the name of this Sondra Roberts Meshed Up Fur with Center Ornament Clutch supposed to be a pun? Because this bag is certainly messed up. I rarely find fur very tasteful on a purse, but this bag simply has too much going on. It looks like a tangle of forgotten accessories that one might have shoved into a drawer. Surprising too, because Roberts’ bags are usually pretty chic and simple. It’s $150 at Sondra Roberts.

posted: April 10th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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I cannot tell a lie! It was the name that captured my attention. And even after sneaking a peek at the 12th Street by Cynthia Vincent Leather Banker’s Clutch, I remained interested. I like this unusual looking bag because it’s so creative, pairing snake-printed canvas with snake-embossed leather and a funky neon-lemon lining. Sure, the weathered tan and bright turquoise don’t exactly look like they belong together, but somehow this thing manages to look pretty cohesive when all is said and done. Available for $298 at Neiman Marcus.

posted: March 26th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Okay, so this may actually be your grandma’s crochet. Clearly perfectly willing to be outdone by far more progressive, fashionable handbags made of the crafty fabric, the Straw Studios Crochet Tote is likely to delight the hook-wielding gal who demands more space for her wool and tools. Otherwise I just can’t see any modern woman making great use of this slouchy, boring bag. Available for $58 at Nordstrom.

posted: March 26th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Always worthy of a second look, the Large Orchard by Burberry is unique mainly for its shape. Reminiscent of a bowling ball bag (which hardly inspires confidence), this is fortunately far more style-conscious. It’s designed with gentle curves and made with shiny jacquard fabric. I love the little bow detail, which gives the bag a touch of femininity. I’m not wild about the subdued color, but if someone wanted to surprise me with this…well, would you say no to a $13,500 bag? I didn’t think so. Available at Burberry.

posted: March 25th, 2013
category: Burberry Handbags
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