Every once in awhile we find a beautiful bag that isn’t made out of the usual materials of fine leather and exotic skins. This Prada creation, the Rete Metal Evening Bag doesn’t just feature silvertone hardware — it’s made up of it entirely. This ‘defined frame’ bag has a chain mail body with no lining (so be warned: everyone will be able to see everything you put in it) and acrylic resin accents that look like enormous jewels perched on the kiss-lock closure and all along the chain shoulder strap. Simple but also amazing and striking. $2,100

Prada Rete Metal Evening Bag, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bulgari has designed ultra-pricey handbags for a while but they haven’t had an official designer at the helm. Vogue UK reports that the Italian jewelry brand has tapped British fashion designer Matthew Williamson to design a handbag collection for spring/summer 2011. The capsule collection will be shown during Milan Fashion Week in September. Williamson is known for his exuberant sense of color which eventually led to his stint as creative director at Pucci. In a press release Bulgari’s CEO Francesco Trapani commented: “We chose Matthew Williamson for the great sense of color and design he brings to his work which resonates with our brand’s rich history”.

Matthew Williamson To Create Handbags For Bulgari originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Prada’s Bandoliera Bag combines practicality with under the radar yet sleek design elements, that it could become the perfect go to everyday bag. It features Prada’s signature nylon material, a zippered and buckled exterior pocket and a roomy interior considering Bandoliera’s small size. Its adjustable shoulder strap, multiple pockets and size make it ideal for walking around the city, running errands and traveling. Available in brown mordore, violet/hyacinth and lavender mordore. Dimensions: 9″ x 8.6″. Price: $780.

Prada Bandoliera Bag originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In the age of digital speed, Avatar and cyber-shopping, it seems like everything is racing for the future.  Marc Jacobs on the other hand, brought Louis Vuitton’s Fall Ready to Wear collection back in the other direction.  The clothing had very conservative silhouettes. Super-elongated jackets, hair pulled back, faded vintage florals. A few country plaids.  The style evoked Chloe Sevigny’s character in HBO’s “Big Love” or a depression-era schoolteacher.  Colors were muted, dusty.  The shapes were still quite feminine, and a few pieces looked like the schoolmarm wanted to break out in the vintage patterned corset styling.

The handbags had some of the muted mustards.  Some of the quilted monagram pieces had dusty pastels that worked back to the clothing.  Some bags had very luxurious fur worked into the bag (I’m seeing a big comeback in fur across most of the Paris collections). Dark appliqued blocked florals were also seen on many of the handbags as well, with lace and hand-painted crocodile texture.

Spotted in the front row: Daisy Lowe, Alexa Chung, Corinne Bailey Rae

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The Red Faithful Satchel by Alexander McQueen has an understated elegance mixed with real life usability that makes it so appealing. It has a top handle, adjustable shoulder strap, a fold over flap that zips up to secure your items and several exterior pockets. With those essential features wrapped in a candy colored red leather to add some spice to your outfit, the Red Faithful Satchel has versatility and long lasting appeal. Price: $1480.

Alexander McQueen Love Red Faithful Satchel originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hilary Duff has some heavy lifting in store for her — and we’re not talking about her gorgeous pinkish-beige Fendi Camelia handbag or that massive engagement ring she’s sporting. The star suited up in a red workout top to hit the gym, and couldn’t resist bringing her Fendi purse along as a fabulous gym bag substitute. Can’t say I blame her!

Photo from People.com.

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Going through a Louis Vuitton withdrawal? Desperate for some sun? Well, I can’t change the weather but I can reveal this sunny new ad for Louis Vuitton swimwear, which stars model Daisy Lowe and some delicious pink and purple Murakami handbags. The jolt of color is just what I need to get in the summer mindset, and I can’t wait to pair these purses with a chic sundress (or LV bikini if I can swing it). How about you?

Photos from FabSugar.co.uk.

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The Espasol Silver-Plated Filigree Clutch by Celestina has a lot of character packed into a small package, and would make the perfect accessory for your favorite LBD. Structured box styling features a cutout filigree design with a slight bohemian artisan vibe, mixed with contemporary glitz and glamor. It has a hinge on the bottom, a black howlite clasp fastening on the top, and no lining. No shoulder strap, no interior pockets, just the pretty polished beauty of silver. Oh, and a little wood-trimmed vanity mirror with the designer’s stamp. $1,325

Celestina Espasol Silver-Plated Filigree Clutch, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Balenciaga may not be a fan of French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld — she was reportedly banned from their Paris show — but relations with Sarah Jessica Parker seems to be on the up and up. The actress headed out with a beautiful Balenciaga handbag on her arm, adding a nice designer accent to an otherwise ho-hum outfit.

Photo from UsMagazine.com.

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Carry this handbag and pay tribute to both the late Alexander McQueen and his inspiration for this piece: the iconic Michael Jackson. McQueen’s Thriller Faithful Glove Clutch is a black whipsnake design clutch that features two angled zipper pockets and a white fingerless glove embellished with white Swarovski crystals on the front. The glove is attached to the bag with a snap and is (presumably) removable. The interior is fully lined in purple/plum with one inside zipper pocket and has a snap closure. Certainly an accessory meant to start a conversation. $1,920

Alexander McQueen Thriller Faithful Glove Clutch, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Life is pretty good for Miranda Kerr these days. She’s dating Orlando Bloom, she just walked the Prada show, and — whoa nelly! — she’s rocking a fabulous blue Balenciaga Croc Bag that I would kill to own. I love the shot of color, and the chunky silver hardware gives it a youthful edge. Well done, Miranda!

Photo from JustJared.buzznet.com.

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Sheesh — could Hilary Duff have a bigger designer handbag stockpile? Homegirl seems to be carrying a new status bag every time I see her. This time it’s a classic monogram Louis Vuitton purse, which looks great with her beachy shades and off-white ensemble. Color me jealous.

Photo from People.com.

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The Donna Karan Crosstown Flat Hobo is a lovely, practical bag in an unusual, beautiful, chaotic pattern.

This printed leather bag has a flat silhouette (as the name implies), but your own belongings will give it shape. It has front and back pockets as well as three interior pockets, and the double handles are accented subtly with chain. We love that the chain is somewhat hidden; it gives the bag no bearing on whether one should wear it with gold or silver jewelry.

This bag is perfect for your all-day endeavors like work, visiting friends, and sightseeing. At 16″W X 13″H X 3″D, you could fit entire portfolios or all your touring accoutrements like cameras and document carriers. Its chaotic pattern and comfortable shape make it an easy contrast to whatever you were planning to wear, whether you’re trekking museums in Vienna or shopping in St. Tropez.

The Donna Karan Crosstown Flat Hobo is available exclusively from Saks Fifth Avenue for $795.00.

Donna Karan Crosstown Flat Hobo, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 07 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Valentino Lacca is a classy bag for a dame of extraordinary style.

The traditional shape of this fabulous bag is turned on its head with a masterful gathering of the black patent leather creating an effect similar to expert-level napkin folding. We love the generous handles and the deep, roomy top-zip body, as well as the classic Valentino logo plate on the side, of course.

This 15″H x 19″W x 6 1/2″D bag is lined in satin and includes a zipper pocket for a little extra organization. This is one of the finest, most sophisticated bags large enough for work we’ve ever seen, carried off with a supremely feminine flair. It’s one of those bags which announces itself with a stately, “I’m important” presence. We could see Audrey Hepburn carrying this just out of frame in one of her iconic black-and-white photos — it’s that glamorous.

The Valentino Lacca is available from Neiman Marcus for $1,195.00, and also comes in a pink so bright it will burn your eyeballs.

Valentino Lacca, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Valentino Summer Flower Tote is another femme-fatale, dynamite bag from Valentino’s particularly womanly spring collection.

This very nearly lip-shaped tote is decked in supple nappa leather flowers in bright, bold colors which captivate and catch the eye. The unusual color combination is fresh and lovely, calling to mind images of a hot summer day, a glass of lemonade and some very red lipstick. The use of black increases the intrigue of the bag, giving it a gothic edge. One could see a celeb like Dita Von Teese carrying this to complement a lacy or chiffon ensemble.

The bag is especially large (21″W X 12″H X 8″D), and could even be used overnight. It features a magnetic snap closure and metal feet, a black polyester-satin lining and a 16″ drop detachable shoulder strap. We’d hate to see a bag like this wasted on work, and hope we’ll catch someone brave enough to take it down the red carpet.

The Valentino Summer Flower Tote is available from Saks Fifth Avenue for $2,690.

Valentino Summer Flower Tote, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Rebecca Minkoff Darling Shoulder Bag is a bright, playful purse with a flirty vibe. Somebody call Prince — it’s “Purple and Gold.”

We love Ms. Minkoff’s use of color, and this shoulder bag is no exception. In black, this would be way less special, but in this eye-catching violet, the bag is youthful and fun. We love the vertical zipper belt that holds it all together with a utilitarian push-lock closure and the pretty, dainty tassels on the sides.

The bag is 14 1/2″H x 17″W x 4″D, large enough for books or portfolios, whichever you have. It would certainly brighten our lunch hour to pull a bag like this out from under our desks. A shock of purple can be like a secret weapon against a doldrum-ridden mood.

The Rebecca Minkoff Darling Shoulder Bag is available from Neiman Marcus for $495.

Rebecca Minkoff Darling Shoulder Bag, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Even stars have to slum it once in a while, and Vanessa Hudgens is definitely slumming it in these pink and black sweats. Of course, carrying a black Balenciaga purse isn’t exactly super-casual, but a designer status bag is practically an extra limb to any Hollywood starlet. Love the handbag, but let’s work on those sweats, shall we?

Photo from JustJared.buzznet.com.

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The Foley + Corinna Jet Setter Jr. Tote is a classy travel bag to double as your carry-on.

As a frequent traveler myself, I always pack light. I bring a rolling suitcase that will fit in the overhead compartment and a purse large enough to stuff my laptop and a book in (as well as the other usual purse effects). This keeps me from having to check a bag, and keeps my valuables with me, just hovering three or four feet above my head.

One look at this and I can tell you this is a great bag for traveling. The durable, belted structure will keep all your important pieces together, and there’s no mistaking that even at 14″H x 15 1/2″W x 5″D, this is a purse, and can be carried on with your luggage as your “small personal item.”

The charcoal leather of this tote is accentuated with simple silver hardware and ingenious turnlock closures at the top and snap-button sides, which make it expandable. It includes two zipper pockets for important things like your passport and phone.

The Foley + Corinna Jet Setter Jr. Tote is available from Neiman Marcus for $528.00.

Foley + Corinna Jet Setter Jr. Tote, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What a stunner! Coach doesn’t really have a lock on bright, sleek purses, but the label’s new Emma Bag definitely takes a step in that direction. Constructed of smooth, bold leather that bears hints of gold in certain lights, this vibrant Coach purse is as utilitarian as it is chic. Also in light gold. Available for $498 at Nordstrom.

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I want spring to be here so badly, but it’s just not happening. In the mean time, I’m thinking this Prada Vitello Daino Hobo would pretty much be a big ol’ bucket of sunshine hanging on my arm, and that might be good enough. I love that this handbag has a shoulder strap in addition to handles, since I can easily fill a purse this big to the brim and I like being able to shift that burden from my arm to my shoulder. Plus, if I want a sleeker look, I can remove the shoulder strap and I’ve got it – once I lighten the load. This hobo also comes in black, which would be great as an everyday designer bag, but the yellow is just too joyful to pass up. Available for $1,395 at Bergdorf Goodman.

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The Botkier Harper Lambskin Tote is a beautiful, bright blue bag with a fun, festive design.

This tote is belted in all kinds of ways, from the clever double buckles on the double handles to the chic and utilitarian horizontal straps which give the bag its unique, sexy shape. The warm, Caribbean blue is set off nicely by the gunmetal hardware — and did we mention it’s not your average leather, but soft, buttery lambskin? You could practically use this as a pillow.

The bag is 12″H x 15″W x 4″D, and features a cream-colored jacquard lining (creating a fabulous teal-and-cream contrast). The top zips with a tassel pull, and a detachable shoulder strap is included.

This Botkier will make an excellent splash of color to set off this seasons pale grays and beiges, and is large enough to function as a work bag for the gainfully occupied.

The Botkier Harper Lambskin Tote is available from Neiman Marcus for $595.00.

Botkier Harper Lambskin Tote, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Most everyone in tune with luxury is well aware of the legacy of Louis Vuitton. Of course, that also presents one with a dilemma… How do you carry one of the most coveted brands of handbags while also maintaining your individuality? You don’t want to merely be a part of the designer pack do you?

To solve this issue, Louis Vuitton has unveiled their Mon Monogram program. Clients are able to create their own personalized version of classic LV luggage and handbags with different stripe styles, colors and initials. You are truly making your own custom piece as there are over 200 million possible combinations possible from the options you choose. You can design your special bag online and order it. You could also create your design and bring it to the boutique to execute for you.

This certainly saves the awkward mix-ups at the airport…Just make sure your initials don’t spell anything obscene!

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Keep things low key yet chic with this Coach Kristin Leather Tote. Made up of smart, sensible purses that aren’t too outwardly Coach-esque (minus the logo prints, of course), the Kristin collection is pretty impressive. This handbag is ideal for spring and summer. Spare and understated, the flawless leather makes it a standout. Also in black. Available for $398 at Nordstrom.

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Accented by sculpted knots on both sides, this Burberry Check Print Knotted Shoulder Bag takes on a surprisingly artful, unique appearance. Without the knots, it would be another run-of-the-mill shoulder bag not really worth a second look. Here, though, it’s elevated to reflect sculptural trends while still remaining true to the refined Burberry look we all love. Available for $750 at Nordstrom.

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For some time it has been possible to personalize a Louis Vuitton bag at a number of flagship stores around the world. Now the service is truly global as it is available to all on their web-site.

There are three classic LV bags available for the online service: the Keepall, the Pegase and the Speedy. After choosing the bag and its size there are 17 different colors available for the diagonal or vertical stripes that will adorn your bag. You also have the option to put up to three initials on the bag with or without a “point” between the letters. There are cute features that let you reverse the colors, rotate your bag to view the monogram from all sides, and save your creation to finalize your selection later. If you decide that you must have an entire monogrammed set just push a button and your chosen monogram will be applied to other bags. If you’d like something more complicated, like your family crest, painted on your luggage you’ll have to go to a Louis Vuitton store and discuss it with a sales associate in person.

The good news is that you receive free shipping with your online purchase, but be forewarned, the return policy is not the same for the monogrammed items and it can take up to 8 weeks for delivery. It is a bit funny that the web-site touts that there are over 200 million different combinations possible, so even though you are a carrying an LV bag it will be completely unique. However, it does beat tying a piece of colored string to the handle to differentiate your Louis Vuitton from all the others coming off the baggage claim rack at the airport.

Louis Vuitton Mon Monogram Service Now Available Online originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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