I become acutely aware of how big my purse straps are when I start to sweat under them in warm weather. Gross, I know, but it’s the reality of hot city living. As summer approaches, I’m looking at itty bitty bags that won’t leave any unbecoming sweat lines on my body once removed. The dELiA*s Small Purple Ditsy Crossbody might seem small, but sundresses don’t have pockets, and this holds the necessities. Plus, the strap is thin and lightweight enough to keep me cool and comfortable. Available at dELiA*s for $15.

posted: May 21st, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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There’s something about the familiar shade this Turquoise Lady Bow Bag boasts that has us hungry for breakfast. While the purse comes with an adjustable crossbody strap, I doubt seriously I’d ever wear it – I look so much more Fifth Avenue carrying it around by the girly white handle that matches the bow. Available from Topshop for $50.

posted: May 16th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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Though I don’t necessarily find studs to be flirty, the becoming color of this Rebecca Minkoff Flirty Bag certainly has me entertaining the idea of a purchase. Though the picture doesn’t show it well, gold studs line the sides and bottom of this purse for an eye-catching detail. It’s also available in a host of colors beyond this cheeky pink. Available at Zappos for $250.

posted: May 15th, 2012
category: Rebecca Minkoff Handbags
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Are you ready for May flowers?

April showers bring May flowers, and when I think of floral purses, the first name that comes to mind is Vera Bradley. You can spot a Vera Bradley bag a mile away. The base style is the same – quilted cotton in a wide variety of floral patterns. But the shapes and colors are what make these handbags really stand out. Here’s what’s new for summer.

The Grand Tote is one of Vera’s mainstays. It’s a spacious tote, and the soft Priscilla Pink pattern lets the flowers take center stage. You can pick this pretty purse up for $65.

There’s no reason for new moms to get stuck with dull old diaper bags. The Crossbody Baby Bag in Blue Medley is not only pretty as a picture, it has its own changing pad, and everything – bag and pad – is washable. Get one as a Mother’s Day gift for any new mom you know – just $110.

With its convenient outside center pocket, the Clare Shoulder Bag, seen here in Lime’s Up, is a great May flowers option, and the black floral design on lime green, blue, and yellow will easily, breezily take you through the summer months as well. For $59 it can be yours.

posted: May 4th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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I’ve developed new appreciation for Vince Camuto in recent months. The designer has all but dominated the reasonably priced fashion market with everything from sexy attire to killer heels to dazzling handbags. New to the fold is the Andrea Crossbody Bag, a bright interpretation of the classic. It’s a scene-stealer in peppy pink, but it’s more than just a pretty face. The bag opens to reveal four (!) compartments, plus a zippered pocket, a cell phone holder, and a pen holder. Please. You almost have to buy it for its organizational prowess alone. Available for $238 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 4th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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I’m a sucker for almost anything plaid, and I’m also quite a Marc Jacobs fiend, so naturally I went nuts when I saw this bag. Okay, maybe “went nuts” is a little bit of an overstatement to describe how I felt about something relatively neutral and simple, but this Marc by Marc Jacobs Static Plaid Sia Crossbody Bag definitely has my number. It’s also vastly different from the usual MJ offerings, and makes a really chic companion for conservative garments like sheath dresses and suits. I’d carry this throughout fall, too. Very cute! Available for $248 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 4th, 2012
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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I don’t know about you all, but I’m (not-so) secretly thrilled that mustard yellow has made a huge comeback. Just look at this Michael Kors Charlton Crossbody. Would it be as cute in another hue? It’s also available in a respectable brown, but the brown’s just not setting my heart on fire quite like this gorgeous mustard is. Besides, a color like this can carry you through all four seasons without making you feel like you’re being too safe with your color choices. Available at Forzieri for $159.

posted: May 2nd, 2012
category: Michael Kors Handbags
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When I was first introduced to the Kooba brand years ago, it was with a package and a note that promised me I’d be a goner. Now, as I’m a longtime bag junkie, few things really bring out the “goner” in me, but I’m not one to back away from a challenge. I opened up the package with limited expectations and discovered a gorrrrgggeous bag with distressed leather, minimal hardware, and a little slouch. It became an instant favorite, and I’ve appreciated Kooba ever since, even though its most recent designs haven’t thrilled me quite as much. The Jane Crossbody Bag, though, is a different story. I love this little thing; in luggage-tan leather, it’s versatile and has a kind of weathered appearance that looks great whether I’m dressed up or down. If you’re looking for something that will just throw you with its great quality and immaculate detailing, you’ll find it here. Available for $448 at Piperlime.

posted: May 1st, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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An easy way to revive a washed-out wardrobe? Add a jolt of color via a chic handbag! This Marc by Marc Jacobs Ozzie Sia Crossbody Bag makes it incredibly simple thanks to its “parrot green” hue. Even the material – ostrich-embossed PVC – will lend your look a certain sophistication, likely because it appears fairly authentic. With its sporty-meets-polished vibe, this casual crossbody is sure to win hearts of MJ fans and non-fans alike. Available for $248 at Nordstrom.

posted: April 25th, 2012
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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I’m fairly certain this Mosey Smiler is so named because it actually appears that this little bag is smiling, which is just downright adorable. Though I have to admit, it was more than the cute name that drew me to this purse. It’s compact, lightweight, and has a durable adjustable strap. This little bag is ideal for travel! It won’t take up much space or weight in your carryon, and it’ll hold the essentials you’ll want when you reach your final destination. Plus, it comes in a wide array of colors, so you’re sure to find one that blends with your wardrobe. Available at Zappos for $98.

posted: April 25th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
comments: No Comments