I swear, the kitsch factor Kate Spade offers just never gets old. Whether it’s a quirky shape, an oddball color palettem, or a downright bizarre name, the label always manages to get it right. The newest offering isn’t quite so strange, but it’s definitely far-removed from what you typically see at the department store. The Bourbon Street Fabric Freddie Crossbody Bag combines hoity-toity tweed with adventurous pops of cobalt and emerald. The combo is strangely mesmerizing, and after you’re done ogling you may realize that you actually want it. I don’t blame you. Available for $178 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 22nd, 2013
category: Kate Spade Handbags
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In case it’s escaped your notice, the devil is deeply in the details. There’s nothing but detailing going on with the new Marc Jacobs Baroque Studs Single Large Crossbody Bag, after all, and it’s those little touches that make it such a high-impact option as we ease into summer. Good news is you can carry this any time of year; so classic is its silhouette and so versatile is its color. The diamond-patterned leather instantly makes it more interesting, yet it’s not a trendy type of interest – this is the kind of bag you will carry forever. Available to pre-order for $2350 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 22nd, 2013
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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The Tinley Road Lila is literally a spin on the usual minaudiere in that it’s rotated ninety degrees. As a result, this chained bag becomes a little more utilitarian and less of a fussy evening bag. Plus, the casual shade of blue makes it easy for daytime wear with nearly anything. It’s $85 at Piperlime.

posted: May 15th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Caution! The Melie Bianco Nita is not for those who cling to neutrals. This bold purse will fit right in with the neon apparel and accessories you’ve picked up in the last year. But hop on it soon; if the fate of neon in decades past is any indicator, this trend’s return will have a short shelf life. It’s $87 at MelieBianco.com.

posted: May 14th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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This Rebecca Minkoff Skylar Studded Shoulder Bag could fit into any punk rocker’s wardrobe with ease. With polished silvertone stud detail and neon yellow leather fabric, you’ll definitely stand out at any rock concert or even simply shopping at the mall. The fold-over flap and snap-tab closure keep all of your items tucked away safely during any headbanging frenzy. And for $259, it’s one heck of a steal. Available at Bluefly.com or snag one in Poppy Pink for $325 at Neiman Marcus.

posted: May 13th, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Feeling retro? Marc by Marc Jacobs introduced today’s love of technology to the polka dots of the ’50s with this Leather Metal Dots Phone Box Purse, $255 at STYLEBOP.

When wristlets get on your nerves and a case of separation anxiety kicks in to effect the moment you can’t reach your phone, why not try a phone purse? It’s a strange concept, but it’s practical. A structured, leather-covered frame protects your phone, a logo-engraved push-lock safely seals the purse shut, and the long, thin strap is understated enough to work with your outfit instead of overpowering it.

The only caveat I see is the  polka dot pattern. Such bold metal dots make the purse look more like a costume piece.

posted: May 3rd, 2013
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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Girly people, check out the new Tory Burch Bow Envelope Mini Crossbody Bag. This bag is tiny, so don’t expect it to work miracles if you’re a heavy packer. But if all you need to get through the day is a little cash, your phone and maybe a tube of lip gloss, you’ll get your money’s worth from this cute little leather bag. It’s available in three colors, including this very pretty turquoise. Available for $275 at Nordstrom.

posted: May 2nd, 2013
category: Tory Burch Handbags
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By now we’ve all seen more than our fair share of crossbody bags, very few of which actually seem especially noteworthy or memorable. But I’m making a special exception for the Bed:Stu Tahiti Crossbody, an effortless everyday-appropriate bag made of supple, slightly slouchy leather. It may not be eye-catching in any specific way, but it’s endlessly reliable. You’ll never want for room or classic style with this, and you can pretty much count on carrying it for years. Available for $148 at Zappos.

posted: May 2nd, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Kelly green and cobalt is becoming one of my favorite color combinations. It’s plenty bright and cheerful, yet still polished and maybe even a little preppy. This Caroline Clutch or Crossbody by Melie Bianco is a good example of these two colors at play. When carried as a clutch with a sharp pencil skirt, it’s all business, but slung across with its chain strap, it becomes much more casual and free spirited. For two looks in one, it’s a bargain; get it at MelieBianco.com for $56.

posted: May 1st, 2013
category: Other designer Handbags
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Look closely and you’ll see laser cut everything, everywhere. I love the effect on the new Rebecca Minkoff Blake Mini Crossbody Bag. From afar, it’s almost a bit like lace, but up close you can really see the intricacies and beautiful workmanship that went into developing this stylish purse. I’m glad there’s a small handle on top, because this seems just dainty enough to work better as a hand-held – the crossbody style is generally super casual, and this bag just feels a bit more polished than that. Available for $250 at Nordstrom.

posted: April 23rd, 2013
category: Rebecca Minkoff Handbags
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