Designer Handbag Reviews At Señora Cartera

Roger Vivier RV Shopping Tote

2009-07-15T09:01:00.006-04:00

I can never say "NO" to a comfortable and roomy shopping tote. If said tote happens to have a squishy, textured leather exterior, then even better. The Roger Vivier RV Shopping Tote doesn't scream "Roger Vivier" as most of their other creations do. The iconic RV buckles are present, but were done in the same color and material as the rest of the bag making them subtle design elements rather than stand-out decorative accents. In fact, the thick top handles are threaded through the buckles achieving a very cool effect. I absolutely love the black version (pictured), but it also comes in a rather drab-looking brown color. I'm surprised by the RV Shopping Tote's price - $2210. That's steep for an all-leather bag. It would've been smart to maintain the price point below $2K, but we can't forget designer handbags are a lucrative business. I'm still recommending it on quality and design alone, so be aware of the price when making a decision.

Pre-order the Roger Vivier RV Shopping Tote thru LuisaViaRoma

Celebrity Style: Rachel McAdams and the Givenchy Eclipse Hobo

2009-07-14T15:57:00.010-04:00

I can't say Rachel McAdams chose a fabulous bag because it's not actually her bag. This photo was taken of Rachel on the set of her new movie Morning Glory. I know the Givenchy Eclipse Hobo Rachel is carrying in this scene looks amazing, but looks can be deceiving.

The Eclipse Hobo is actually a well-designed bag. It has a slightly structured shape with very pointed seam detailing and features an adjustable and very sturdy shoulder strap that will help support the weight of the bag's contents comfortably on the shoulder. The patent leather version of this bag is a sight to behold, but this cut leather interpretation is a disaster waiting to happen. The small leather squares are delicately laid out, and, unfortunately, lift along their edges with relative ease. After a couple of months of use, you'll end up with one ragged looking bag.

A fellow handbag collector and friend made the mistake of buying this bag and has regretted the purchase ever since. Had she bothered consulting me first (I read her the riot act about that), I would've advised her to stay away from this particular version of the 'Eclipse' and stick with plain old smooth leather. I'd recommend the re-tooled Eclipse Hobo (pictured below) available via LuisaViaRoma.com for $1586 with its braided leather-covered chain strap, silver hardware accents and textured black lambskin leather exterior.

It seems every designer label is jumping on the "rocker chic" bandwagon, and this design is certainly one of the safest and more mainstream-looking of the bunch. If you decide to ignore my warning and must have Rachel's version, it's available for $1675 via BarneysNY.

Rachel McAdams photo via JustJared.com

Hermés Fall 2009 Collection: JPG Honors Amelia Earhart

2009-07-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

Bomber jackets, aviator goggles and oodles of leather commanded the runway during Hermés Fall 2009 collection showing in Paris. This obvious ode to Amelia Earhart is a smart thematic choice for Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermés creative director. Frankly, I was growing tired of all the "equestrian" stuff. Apparently, so was JPG. In this collection, the avant-garde designer with a well-known tongue-n-cheek sense of design channeled the bold and masculine garb of the American aviatrix and achieved one heck of a collection.

The house of Hermés, famous for its mastery of leather craftsmanship, is the perfect choice to carry out such a heavily-influenced leather collection. From classic leather bombers, to full-length trench-coats and jumpsuits, JPG makes certain classic aviator garb was well represented, with a modern twist of course.

While I'm totally fascinated with the theme Gaultier chose for this fall collection, I can't help but being even more intrigued by his interpretations of Hermés' classic handbags. The sheep fur-trimmed Kelly Pochette is cute but has limited potential. Then JPG shocks Birkin lovers everywhere with his new "Shadow Birkin" which boasts a missing flap, straps and clochette. Well, they're not exactly missing. Gaultier designed this version of the Birkin in such a way that the missing elements essential to the Birkin style are actually etched into the material of the bag for a trompe l'oeil effect. Once again, cute but with very limited potential. I've got a sinking feeling classic Birkin collectors won't exactly be flocking to order the Shadow Birkin. It'll be a novelty item or collectors item with a hefty price tag ( @ $11,000!). That price tag is insane. I'd rather get a true Birkin instead. The level of craftsmanship that is infamously necessary to produce a Birkin is just not present in this new version. Sure it has to be embossed with the flap, straps and clochette, but that's not enough to equate it monetarily to a classic Birkin.

The one bright spot in this handbag collection is the introduction of a new clutch, the Goodlock. This fold-over top clutch has a nice, big pushlock closure that's right up my alley. The color combination of the runway piece is beautiful, but I'm excited to see this clutch in croc or lizard skins. Imagine that, ladies! The Goodlock Clutch is priced just over $5000 for the non-exotic versions. Not a bad price point for Hermés. There are some disappointments among this grouping, but I think the Goodlock Clutch makes up for them. At least JPG reined in his sense of humor enough to not hang a pair of miniature aviator goggles from a Birkin ;-)

Runway photos: Style.com

Alexander McQueen Faithfull Tote

2009-07-14T08:35:00.006-04:00

Is there any need to state the obvious about Alexander McQueen? Probably not, but I'll do it anyway. No one does 'urban', 'industrial' and 'edgy' like the British designer. McQueen has an innate talent for making over-the-top designs seem, well, quite mainstream. I mean this as a compliment. Nothing on a McQueen handbag is a throw-away decorative accent merely placed there to cater to trends. No other designer takes a trend an interprets it with such sophistication as McQueen. The Faithfull Tote (pictured) is a perfect example of how to translate trends in a way most women can appreciate.

This large 16 x 14 x 7 black leather tote has plenty going on. We have a menagerie of zippers, studs, origami-like folds and piping all competing for attention, and, yet, they come together in this wacky and fabulous design. The Faithfull Tote is one of the trendiest bags you can imagine, but I could easily picture someone carrying this bag in downtown NYC a few years from now without looking like a fashion victim. If you keep your wardrobe simple and polished, the Alexander McQueen Faithfull Tote will take care of the rest. I dare upper East-siders to tote this design around. That's right, ladies. Leave the Birkins at home. It's time to shake things up a bit.

Alexander McQueen Faithfull Tote available for $2295 via Net-A-Porter

Valentino Nuage Hobo: Trash or Treasure?

2009-07-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

When I came across this new rose pink version of the Valentino Nuage Hobo, I was immediately reminded of Pepto-Bismol. Not exactly the image you'd want in your head when looking at an expensive designer bag, but what can I say? The bag's color is just the absolute wrong shade of pink. Something paler or bolder like hot pink would have worked fine, but this hue is horrid. I couldn't possibly shell out nearly $1000 for a bag that reminds me of anti-diarrhea medication. Sorry, can't do it. This doesn't mean I'm against the 'Nuage'. On the contrary, I love the design, and, apparently, so do many Miamians because I see that bag everywhere down here.

Let's recap, shall we? I love the bag, hate the color. This puts the Valentino Nuage Hobo in rose pink in the trash pile for me, but I'd like to here other opinions about this color. Do you agree with me, or are you feeling the Pepto-Bismol color. Is this Valentino bag trash or treasure?

Pre-order the Valentino Nuage Hobo for $995 via Nordstrom.com

Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich Bag

2009-07-13T14:03:00.006-04:00

I never grow tired of the Mulberry Bayswater Bag. I look forward to the new colors and finishes this established label comes out with every season. They certainly have not disappointed with this faboosh tan ostrich leather version of the 'Bayswater' for the fall. The neutral color and exotic finish of this sophisticated, well-appointed bag make it a great investment piece. You'll get years and years of use from the 'Bayswater', but be prepared for major sticker shock, ladies. The Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich Bag is priced at $2795. I know, don't say it, there's a global recession going on and it would be insane to buy such an expensive bag in these times. My answer to that is simple. Yes, if you don't have disposable cash around, ANY luxury purchase, designer handbags included, would be a risky and foolish move. However, for someone who can afford to invest in a designer bag, this would certainly be a wise choice. It's a no-brainer selection in these uncertain times. Sublimely executed and expertly crafted exotic bags like the Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich Bag will never go out of style.

Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich Bag available for via Net-A-Porter

Celebrity Style: Megan Fox and the Linea Pelle Lola Tote

2009-07-13T12:37:00.008-04:00

The more I see of Megan Fox, the more I like the fact that she marches to the beat of her own drum. The self-professed beauty (there's nothing wrong in tooting your own horn, right?) has cultivated a chic, youthful and moderately priced handbag collection. Apparently the Chanel and Hermés bugs haven't bitten her yet. Nope, the young Transformers star is happy running errands while clutching her wallet or carrying a simple bag.

Megan has been sporting the Linea Pelle Lola Tote for the past few weeks. The large 17.5 x 14.5 x 5 design makes for an ample all-day tote or stylish travel bag. It features solid brass hardware, dual top handles with ring attachments and a comfortable 10" strap drop. There's a front zippered pocket, belted side accents and magnetic snap closure as well as a fabric-lined interior with an additional zippered pocket. The Lola Tote normally retails for $595, but it's since been reduced to $355 at the Linea Pelle website. Now is the perfect time to snag Megan's style at a considerable discount.

New Arrivals Alert: Alexander Wang Coco Duffel at Net-A-Porter

2009-07-13T08:24:00.007-04:00

At the risk of annoying my non-"Coco Duffel" loving readers (please be patient with me, ladies), I have yet another sighting of the fast-selling Alexander Wang design. The 'Coco' just popped up on Net-A-Porter. It sold out on both BarneyNY's website and Shopbop.com. If you still have a hankering for it, be quick and get it now. It'll probably be sold out by the end of the day.

Good luck my ravenous chicas

Celebrity Style: Lindsay Lohan's Hip Handbags

2009-07-13T07:00:00.009-04:00

Lindsay Lohan photos: JustJared.com and Popsugar.com
Lindsay Lohan is known for many things including her penchant for mega expensive bags. Her most recent splurge, the Chloé Paraty in blue python, is priced just short of $4K. With mind-numbing prices like that, it's nice to see that the embattled starlet has less expensive taste in handbags as well. Over the past few weeks, Lindsay has been seen with three different bags perfect for the young and chic and all priced under $1000. Now that's style many of us can afford to emulate.

Lindsay started out her "urban" trek with the CCSkye Janey Bag. This chain fringe-accented hobo ($650) is certainly an attention grabber (wonder why she picked it ;-). Lilo opted for the black hobo with gold chain fringe, but I prefer the grey distressed leather version with silver/black fringe. HOT, HOT, HOT! She followed up her fringe bag with the studded Linea Pelle Dylan Bowler ($575). The soft black leather and light gold hardware are a winning combination. This is a great roomy bag that provides both style and function. It may be edgy, but it's mainstream enough to appeal to women with other style preferences.

The last bag we have to talk about is not a new selection for Ms. Lohan. Lindsay has already worn the Alexander Wang Donna Hobo before. That time she chose the blue denim washed leather version of the popular design. This time Lindsay is sporting the 'Donna' in black washed denim leather instead. I prefer the all black leather rendition of the Donna Hobo, but I know many readers have already expressed an interest in Wang's denim-looking leather bags. The Alexander Wang Donna Hobo is the most expensive of the three bags featured at $820, but still under the daunting $1000 mark most women dread to cross. If you share Lindsay's style, these three bags are certainly worthy of your attention. I'm definitely lusting after the Linea Pelle Dylan Bowler, but that CCSkye Janey Bag is a close second.

Bulgari Debra Hobo

2009-07-10T12:10:00.010-04:00

I was tempted to post just a photo of the beyond amazing Bulgari Debra Hobo and allow the beauty of the bag to speak for itself. However, I write about bags. It's my job. It's my passion. So let's get right to it, shall we?

First, the basics - the Debra Hobo measures 21 x 19.7 x 7.9 and is crafted from supple calfskin leather. The design combines the classic shape and soft, slouchy look of the hobo with subtle, origami-esque detailing. The leather extends through to the handle where the designers add the only hardware on the bag in the form of a wrap-around, light gold metal tube. The interior is lined in 100% mastic leather. Sigh!

color palette
This elegant hobo (yes, a hobo can be elegant) is currently available in chestnut (pictured), opal blue and black and retails for $1650 (exclusively at Bulgari shops). That's a fabulous price, ladies, for such a well-designed and truly sophisticated bag. Mothers and daughters alike can rock this bag while complimenting their own individual styles. Fashionistas that prefer understated bags can choose from the softer colors available while edgier women can opt for the black version of the Debra Hobo and look punk and polished. Is there such a thing as being "punk and polished"? I believe there can be if you carry a bag as perfect as the Bulgari Debra Hobo.

Shop Bulagari handbags, including the equally fabulous Dalia Shoulder Bag, at Bulgari's on-line shop

Photo courtesy of Bulgari

Celebrity Style: Eva Longoria Parker and the Gustto Bonba Clutch

2009-07-10T12:00:00.001-04:00

How I wish I were Eva Longoria Parker right this moment. Why? Because the woman is in Paris! It's been so long since I was last there, and I'm afraid my kids will make it impossible to return anytime soon. I'm disappointed, but it doesn't mean I can't appreciate a cute bag when I see one.

Eva stepped out in the city of lights with the Gustto Bonba Clutch in hand. This taupe lambskin leather foldover clutch makes a great day-to-evening bag. It's sized well at 11 x 5 x 2 and sports several interior pockets to keep things neat and organized. The 'Bonba's' best feature is without a doubt the detailed leather panels on the front exterior. The effect is achieved by taking strips of leather and twisting them to give the appearance of cut-out pleating. Very chic, indeed. The only thing that can trump a trip to Paris with a great bag in tow is a fabulous price tag. The 'Bonba' is priced just under $400. Eva sure is a lucky gal. She gets to enjoy Paris when it sizzles while looking frugally flawless.

Gustto Bonba Clutch available for $395 via Gustto.com

Eva Longoria Parker photo: JessicaStyle.com

Sang A River Tulip Tote

2009-07-10T10:06:00.007-04:00

As I compile my list of "must-have" bags for fall (which I'll be sharing with you soon), I'm constantly impressed by the fabulous and wide range of designer bags that are in serious contention. One of the absolute no-brainers in the bunch is the Sang A River Tulip Tote.

This intricately patterned version of the designer's successful River Tote is a masterpiece of handbag design. The tulip-like woven pattern throughout the bag's almost square eel skin exterior is simply stunning. The pattern is even carried through to the top handles. Brilliant! It measures a roomy 12 x 11 x 3 and features a silk/satin lined interior with zippered and patch pockets to store smaller items.

The River Tulip Tote comes in black, crema (tan), smoke, banana, burgundy and purple eel skin ($2156) as well as a gorgeous seasnake version ($2800). I cannot recommend this bag enough. It's chic and timeless and worth every dollar. I have a feeling it'll definitely make our "must-have" picks for fall. Stay tuned.

Shop the Sang A River Tulip Tote here

Chloé Victoria Shoulder Bag

2009-07-10T08:52:00.005-04:00

Sometimes the color of a bag can make or break the design for me. That's exactly what happened with the Chloé Victoria Shoulder Bag. When I first saw it, I was instantly attracted to the bag's fabulous calfskin leather exterior and practical shape. The only aspect of the 'Victoria' that turned me off was the color. I'd seen it advertised in either basic black or cognac brown which are both decent options, but nothing special to write about. Then I saw this heavenly slate blue version, and said "Aha!, this is the color this bag was meant to have". There's no doubt the 'Victoria's' large dimensions, subtle pleating and threaded, buckle-accented top handles are its major selling points, and, yet, I can't stop drooling over the color. While I always advise friends to use their brains and not their hearts when making a substantial handbag purchase, sometimes it's worth it to listen to the pitter-patter of one's heart as it falls helplessly in love with a bag. Come to think of it, that's how I ended up married to my darling husband. I guess the heart can steer you down the path to happiness every once in awhile;-)

Chloé Victoria Shoulder Bag available for $1395 via Intermix

Celebrity Style: Britney Spears and the Mulberry Daria Hobo

2009-07-09T09:58:00.010-04:00

Britney Spears photo via fametastic.com
Runway photo: Style.com
It seems Britney Spears indulged in a bit of handbag shopping when she was in London for her Circus tour. The embattled singer has ditched her bright pink Candie's bag for, uh, another bright pink bag. Guess Britney loves hot, flashy bags. This time she went with a British label to get her arm candy fix. Britney is toting the much anticipated Daria Hobo in cerise ostrich from Mulberry's Fall 2009 collection. Anyone who saw this bag back in February was immediately drawn to the exciting color and sumptuous slouchy shape. You can shop for the Daria Hobo, as well as other 'Daria' styles, via Mulberry's website. The patent leather and regular leather versions retail for just under $1000.

I really like the Daria Hobo. The braided top handle and slouchy silhouette are particularly appealing. I only wish the logo plate would be smaller. It really is distracting. I suppose Britney's choice of a hot, hot color and exotic finish more than compensates for that pesky plate. Good job in the designer handbag department, Britney. It's a step in the right direction.

Miu Miu Studded Clutch

2009-07-09T09:37:00.004-04:00

Another day, another Miu Miu clutch. I can't say I'm incredibly smitten with the Miu Miu Studded Clutch, but it's definitely more up Miu Miu's alley than the Vintage Leather Clutch featured yesterday. For those of you that prefer their clutches with a bit of pazzazz, this one delivers that in spades. Two things I really love about this design are the fact that the studs are on both the front and rear exterior panels as well as the design team's choice of placing all sorts of styles and sizes on the clutch. From tiny studs to pyramid grommets to hammered buttons, the Studded Clutch has it all. It's a nice oversize bag measuring 11 x 7 x 2 and comes in either ivory or black eco-friendly leather. I'll stick to the Vintage Leather Clutch, but the rocker chicks out there deserve a cool clutch too.

Miu Miu Studded Clutch available for $750 via Bergdorf Goodman

Celebrity Style: Eva Mendes and the Valentino Rose Vertigo Tote

2009-07-08T14:41:00.009-04:00

I wasn't planning on writing about the Valentino Rose Vertigo Tote. When I tried it on, I knew it wasn't for me. I prefer the Valentino Rose Petale Tote to the more structured 'Vertigo'. Then I came across this photo of Eva Mendes carrying the tote and was intrigued by the manner in which she carries it.

Instead of opting for the top handle style the bag is made for, Eva pulls the thick leather strap though the loops to achieve a long and more comfortable shoulder strap. It definitely solves the "comfort" issue, but I have to say it does nothing to enhance the bag or Eva's overall look. It doesn't look bad, but, then again, it doesn't look great either. In the end, Eva is stuck with a bag she's had to alter to make it more her style.

Before I receive comments about the strap and how cool it looks this way, let's get real here. She altered it because it was a pain in the you-know-what to carry any other way. The 'Vertigo' is not meant to be worn that way. She'd be better off buying an entirely different bag for way less. If you're feeling this bag, I'd recommend the to-die-for grey version (pictured) I tried out. It brings a softness to the design I know many of you would appreciate.

Valentino Rose Vertigo Tote available in grey, blue and black for $2395 via Saks.com

Eva Mendes photo: Celebutopia

New Arrivals Alert: Alexander Wang Coco Duffel Now Available at Shopbop

2009-07-08T12:05:00.007-04:00

The frenzy over the Alexander Wang Coco Duffel appears to know no bounds. I'm getting daily inquiries from women dying to know where they can order one on-line. Shopbop just put the 'Coco' up today. It's available for $850 (like everywhere else) and will likely sell out soon. If you haven't ordered yours yet, be sure to do so quickly. Good luck, ladies. You'll need it.

Alexander Wang Coco Duffel Bag available now via shopbop.com

Miu Miu Vitello Vintage Leather Clutch

2009-07-08T08:00:00.002-04:00

One of the more polished collections for FW09 comes to us courtesy of Miu Miu. This hipper and riskier version of its sister label, Prada, still delivers its trademark funky designs but does it with muted tones and sophisticated detailing. Miu Miu's fall handbags have been on my list of 'must-have' bags for months. I've been eagerly anticipating the arrival of these sleek designs, and it looks like they're finally making their way on-line.

The Vitello Vintage Leather Clutch (pictured) sauntered down the runway with an air of timeless sophistication that isn't normally associated with Miu Miu bags. The cream-colored oversize clutch boasts classic touches like a fold-over flap and postman clasp as well as side buckles that serve as accents to the clutch's accordion-style silhouette. In fact, most of Miu Miu's fall handbags share this accordion-like detailing. It's a fabulous design choice that adds interest without compromising the bag's elegance. I can't wait to see the rest of this collection on-line including ultra-chic satchels and shoulder bags.

Miu Miu Vitello Vintage Leather Clutch available in for $750 via Net-A-Porter

Runway photos: Style.com

Anya Hindmarch Belvedere Bag

2009-07-07T08:00:00.002-04:00

In case you're searching for a straight-forward, sophisticated bag with simple decorative accents in a sea of overly adorned designer bags, the Anya Hindmarch Belvedere Bag might be just what you're looking for. This suede tote features tonal calfskin leather "strips" covering the entire exterior of the bag. They keep the design visually interesting without drowning it in nonsensical detailing. The 'Belvedere' sports dual leather top handles as well as a detachable 22" shoulder strap. You can choose to use the open top bag in its 12 x 12 x 6 square shape or use the side snaps to achieve a slightly rounded and elongated hexagonal silhouette. The 'Belvedere' is a great buy for just under $1300. The grey color and subtle detailing will never go out of style. There's nothing better than a well-made bag you can use for years to come.

Pre-order the Anya Hindmarch Belvedere Bag for $1295 via Saks.com

Celebrity Style: Beautiful People "Little Rose" Shoulder Bag.....Or Something Like It

2009-07-06T13:23:00.011-04:00

There isn't a shopping trip I make that doesn't consist of coming across a "tween" girl carrying a Chanel bag. And before anyone tells me those bags probably belong to their mothers, the styles these girls tote around are very, very new. It's unlikely any woman would allow her barely teenage daughter out of the house with a brand new $2000 bag unless, of course, it actually belongs to the young girl. It's insane to think about it, but I know it happens ALL the time so there's no need to debate the topic any further.

Part of the reason many teens feel the need to carry such expensive bags is because their celebrity idols are doing it. When young starlets like Hayden Panettiere and Miley Cyrus are photographed with Balenciaga or Louis Vuitton bags, it's understandable those fashion choices will influence their young fans. So it's refreshing to see a sweet young star carrying an inexpensive bag while conveying the point that her fans don't need pricey bags to look and feel good.

Selena Gomez is undoubtedly a beautiful girl with simple, fresh style that other teens can easily emulate. Her handbag choices are of particular interest. She mixes designer bags from labels like Coach and Michael Kors with age-appropriate selections from American Eagle and Urban Outfitters. It seems she prefers the less expensive but still cool versions of less affordable designer bags as well. Here's a photo of Selena on her recent trip to NYC for her Live with Regis and Kelly appearance. Her soft, polished look is capped off with a chain-strapped rosette shoulder bag. Selena's bag is a suitable imitation of the real deal - the Beautiful People "Little Rose" Shoulder Bag ($305). This Miami-based label has created a moderately-priced collection of handbags that both moms and daughters can choose from. The original is crafted from slightly distressed calfskin leather and features a magnetic framed top, rose-shaped exterior and Chanel-like leather/chain shoulder strap. While I'm certain Selena could easily afford this gorgeous Beautiful People "Little Rose" Shoulder Bag, the 15 year old in her is more than happy with the thrifty replica.

Visit the Beautiful People Designs website for additional styles and store locations

Selena Gomez photo via SelenaGomezWeb.com

Salvatore Ferragamo Gancio Esotico Shoulder Bag

2009-07-06T11:19:00.004-04:00

Let's kick off the week with one heck of an ugly bag. Many thoughts rush to mind when I look at the Salvatore Ferragamo Gancio Esotico Shoulder Bag. It reminds me of mold, boils, the plague and pretty much every other disgusting sickness you can think of. This fondente (chocolate) brown leather shoulder bag could have been quite nice had they not decided to destroy the snake-embossed leather exterior with this ridiculous "bubble" pattern. I don't really know what to call it except horrible. The buckle detailing on the sides is a nice touch and the color by itself is very beautiful, but the treatment of the embossing is so distracting it's difficult to appreciate any of the bag's more appealing attributes. It measures 14 x 9 x 2 and comes with a detachable shoulder strap, but who cares. The bag is priced at $2390. Yikes! Not only did the design team at Salvatore Ferragamo drop the ball on this design, they add insult to injury with the inflated price tag. They do realize it's snake-embossed leather, not actual snakeskin, right?

Pre-order the Salvatore Ferragamo Gancio Esotico Shoulder Bag via Neiman Marcus

Celebrate the 4th of July With Bags - What Else!

2009-07-04T10:10:00.004-04:00

MARC by Marc Jacobs Salma Satchel - $420; MARC by Marc Jacobs Lil' Riz Hobo - $430; Anya Hindmarch Pleated Patent Clutch - $670

I hope everyone enjoys this 4th of July surrounded by family and friends. In case you're in a shopping as well as patriotic mood, here are a few bags at Net-A-Porter to satisfy both urges. Be safe my fellow handbag lovers!

Marni Wave Bag

2009-07-03T10:40:00.014-04:00

Feast your eyes on the fall "must-have" bag. When I first spotted this stunning creation back a couple of months ago, it was plain to see it would be an instant hit. Even before its official release, celebrities like Julia Roberts have already made the Marni Wave Bag their "go-to" bag. The Wave Bag's subtle elegance is contrasted with a mod vibe and luxe accents that only Marni can deliver. There's no question Marni has this niche of the handbag market cornered.

The Wave Bag will be released in several styles and colors with plenty of options to satisfy the most discerning handbag collector. Even if you've never been a Marni handbag fan, this design is classic enough to appeal to you. Just look at the gathered pleating and contrast piping detail on these bags - simply divine. The Marni Wave Bag will be arriving on-line and in stores sometime in July. I'll keep you updated on its official release, but you can browse and shop Marni accessories via Marni's virtual store.
Wave Tote - $1800 USD

Wave Tobo - $1800 USD; Wave Satchel - $1725 USD
Photos courtesy of Marni

New Arrivals Alert: Alexander Wang Coco Duffel

2009-07-02T13:25:00.011-04:00

Have you been eagerly anticipating the on-line arrival of Alexander Wang's Coco Duffel ($850)? Head over to BarneysNY immediately, and I mean immediately, before this new arrival sells out. The Coco Duffel is pretty much sold-out everywhere due largely in part to the insane buzz Mary-Kate Olsen generated when she debuted the bag months ago. The black textured leather exterior and gold-tone studded base are just to die for. I cannot stress enough how fab this bag is and how quickly it'll sell out again.

P.S. - Sorry for all the "rocker chic" bag features today. I swear it happened by pure coincidence.

Botkier Sydney Hobo

2009-07-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

For those of you that were smitten with the Alexander Wang Donna Hobo's "rocker/biker chic" look, here's a more tailored (and less expensive) alternative from Botkier. This moderately-priced accessories label is all about creating stylish bags with enough urban design elements to satisfy the bad chick in all of us while still keeping those touches toned down to appeal to a broader spectrum of fashionistas. I know many felt the 'Donna' was simply not age appropriate for them. At 37, I'd never dream of attempting to pull off such a bag, but the Botkier Sydney Hobo is surprisingly refined for the sort of style it was created to convey. The 'Sydney' measures 15 x 11 x 4 with a roomy 20" strap drop and features 4 exterior pockets and several interior pockets for additional storage. It's available in brown or black lambskin leather (pictured), plum croc-embossed calfskin or antique silver suede-accented lambskin. While all four versions are interesting, only the brown and black interpretations are successful in approximating the "rocker/biker chic" look of the Alexander Wang Donna Hobo.

Click here for details on how to pre-oder the Botkier Sydney Hobo ($525)