Somedays, I just can’t get it together with what I’m wearing. After a few passes through my closet, I give up and throw on something basic. My only saving grace is a great handbag, and this Franchi Camila is the perfect one to distract from an otherwise drab outfit. Not only are the colors bold and bright, but the fabric is actually wrapped in an interesting way to make a three-dimensional flower-like shape. My boring LBD and I are eternally grateful. Available at Zappos for $168.

posted: May 24th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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Sure, another sequined clutch isn’t necessarily something I should be adding to my overly full purse shelf, but I just can’t pass up this BCBGMAXAZRIA Sandalwood Clutch. The color is so on trend right now, and honestly, even if rose gold wasn’t as big as it is at the moment, it’d still be a perfect purchase. There isn’t a color out there that rose gold doesn’t complement beautifully, so I know I’ll be carrying this clutch to all of my summertime soirees. Available at Bluefly for $77.

posted: May 24th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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Psst! If you aren’t already in the know, Nordstrom is having their half-yearly sale, so it’s a great time to pick up a designer treat at a bargain price. But it’s also an awesome opportunity to pick up one of their more affordable bags for an ultra low price, like this Lodis Mod Large Clutch. This tricolor clutch comes in two other colors, but I think this pretty pink puts a very feminine edge on a very modern purse. Regularly $108, it’s $71.90 until June 4.

posted: May 23rd, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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For the next spring soiree on your agenda, consider going all out with something that won’t kill your bank balance in the process. Natasha Couture presents its Glitter Clutch just in time for wedding season, afternoon tea parties, prom, and so much more. Coated in a pretty, shimmering finish, it’s available in four colors that run the gamut from classic to girly. I’m partial to the latter myself, in the form of this too-cute pink version. It’s topped with a wee bow clasp for the perfect final touch. Available for $68 at Nordstrom.

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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I wish I could afford a vacation. Any chance to get away is always nice. But seeing how budgets are tight, I’ll just rub the sumptuous leather on my hand-dyed, hand-laced, and hand-tooled Cleobella Mexicana Small Wallet while I daydream about margaritas on the shores of Puerto Vallarta. Available from Revolve for $110.

posted: May 11th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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Mother of pearl? More like “mother of the bride.” This Ralph Lauren Collection Mother-of-Pearl Flower Raffia Clutch is – and I almost can’t believe I’m saying this – a bit too sweet. There’s something saccharine about this dainty, cotton-candy pink straw bag with its crystal-dusted mother-of-pearl floral embellishment. I mean, I like it and all, but it’s kind of like a dress that leaves nothing to the imagination. There should be some restraint somewhere – or something to balance all that sugary OTT-ness. I certainly wouldn’t pay $895 for this! Available at NET-A-PORTER.

posted: May 10th, 2012
category: Other designer Handbags
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I don’t believe Marc Jacobs has ever created a bag that I didn’t want to automatically purchase. His MARC by Marc Jacobs Sasha Nylon Shoulder Bag looks like a great weekend companion. The print is whimsical, the double-knot shoulder strap is comfortable , and the flat top is zip-able (forgive me). The interior sports a black-and-white logo print and one zippered pocket. Available at Neiman Marcus for $238.

posted: May 9th, 2012
category: Marc Jacobs Handbags
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It’s the season of the straw bag, and whether you like it or not they’re here to stay for at least a few months. Might as well get comfortable and, if you’re so inclined, find yourself one that really tickles your fancy. Never mind if you aren’t planning on picnicking anytime soon. This Rebecca Minkoff Straw Diamond Tote is more of an everyday type of bag, anyway. It lets loose with a jolt of fluorescent pink and is designed to hold your daily essentials in style. I wouldn’t say no to carrying this to work if it meant “summerizing” my work wardrobe a bit. Just a suggestion for those who remain married to the same bag all year round! Available for $195 at Rebecca Minkoff.

posted: May 8th, 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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