Designer Handbag Reviews At Señora Cartera

Celebrity Style: A little "Chloé" Goes A Long Way

2010-10-14T09:57:00.001-04:00

It seems like forever since I wrote up a celebrity handbag sighting. It felt great looking for those gems of a photo that satisfy the voyeur in me. It was quite coincidental that both my finds were Oscar winning stars with a thing for Chloé bags.

First up is Reese Witherspoon, who looks better with every passing year (hate her!). On the set of her new film, Reese was photographed looking sleek and sophisticated and topping the chic look off with a Chloé Elsie Shoulder Bag. This particular design is one I like more in person than in photographs. It comes across as a bit flat, which it's not. Even in this shot of Reese, the bag looks a tad deflated (the props department for the film should really stuff these bags properly).

One of the reasons why I feel this design is a step in the right direction for Chloé accessories is the fact that, although it sort of resembles a rather famous designer bag that shall remain nameless, it looks and feels more youthful than other chain-strap designs. You can nab the 'Elsie' in black buffalo leather for just under $1100.

The second bag is not only one of Chloé's best handbag designs to date, it's also my top handbag pick for the fall. The understated Hilary Swank toted her Chloé Cary Bag while making her way through the airport. Taking the 'Cary' along while traveling is the perfect choice. This, folks, is a practical designer bag - such a rare commodity in the luxury handbag world. But I wouldn't expect anything less from Chloé nowadays.

This roomy satchel-style bag has lots of little nooks and crannies to shove all your stuff inside. Pockets abound and two main compartments are just what a woman-on-the-go wants and needs from her bag.

Chloé Cary Bag

For me, however, it's all the tiny details that push this bag right to the front of the pack for fall. The polished, square metal accents on the double handles, the fact that the handles are attached to the bag on the sides rather than the front and rear, the choice of adding a structured center divider rather than leaving the bag a big old sloppy mess, the fact that the side zippered compartments along the bottom seem appropriate rather than afterthoughts - all these elements exemplify a thoughtful design process. A simple, sophisticated and special design all at once. Hilary's bag knocks it out of the park with respect to all the aforementioned traits. The smaller version of Ms. Swank's Cary Bag is available on-line in anthracite grey (gorgeous) and khaki beige for $1565. Hilary's larger chocolate brown iteration is just a few hundred dollars more in case your interested.

Shop Chloé bags via Nordstrom

Photos: Just Jared and Chloé.com

A Legacy Fit For A King

2010-10-07T09:21:00.001-04:00

As I sit here writing about yet another Alexander McQueen Skull Clutch, I find it difficult to believe that he is no longer with us. His unrivaled talent is so ingrained in every piece he every designed that I feel as if he hasn't really left us at all.

This version of his now legendary Skull Clutch is nothing short of spectacular. The design - part of his final collection - is a testament to everything he stood for as a fashion designer. A man known for pushing the boundaries of design, the "king of avant-garde", took a youthful, punk-inspired, rock-n-roll chic bag and transformed it into a work of art.

Is the rhinestone-clad queen skull adorning the clasp a bit over the top? Well, yes, of course. This is Alexander McQueen we're talking about. I'd expect nothing less. I can turn to a myriad of designers for prim and proper bags. But let's not mince words here. My favorite detailing on this particular clutch is the pattern of gold-accented red patent leather petals covering the entire exterior. Oh, how I could stare at this bag forever! What is not to absolutely love about this parting gift from McQueen? Red patent leather, gold detailing, skulls, rhinestones - it's all a crazy yet sophisticated melding of elements. In a word, it's perfection.

Thank you for leaving us with these jewels of design to treasure forever, Mr. McQueen. Thank you.

Available for pre-order via Neiman Marcus ($2265)

Alexander Wang Spring 2011 Collection: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

2010-10-04T11:23:00.000-04:00

I congratulate New York fashion designer Alexander Wang for a Spring 2011 collection that took two very important steps forward in terms of overall style evolution. First, NO BLACK!!! It's refreshing to see a sans black collection from "Mr. Downtown Cool" himself. The offerings this time around were fun, festive but still very "Wang". Just a more optimistic Wang.

The structured yet deconstructed looks fit in perfectly within Wang's established aesthetic. The smock-like jackets were my absolute favorites. So chic and flattering, I couldn't help but admire how much Wang has come along. If I ever said he was a one-trick pony, I'm prepared to take it back and eat crow.

Another well-executed step forward came by way of shoes. High-heeled construction-style booties were nothing short of genius. Not that they haven't been done before, it's just these were better than their more mundane predecessors. It really is a pity that, taking into account how fantastic this collection was, Wang decided to neglect his most successful venture to date - handbags!

What can I say about the incredibly boring bag offerings - I suppose I just said they were boring (which they are) - other than they were a HUGE step back. Tisk, tisk, Wang. Don't just go on the assumption that your fan base will scoop up ANY bag you put out just because it's a Wang bag. Other more well-established labels (Fendi, anyone?) have done this season after season only to meet with financial loses.

Crack that whip and work on your bags for fall, OK? ;-)

Photos via Style.com

See by Chloé Metallic Day Tripper

2010-10-04T10:17:00.001-04:00

After a much-needed sabbatical from designer handbags, I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue focusing my time on them. Truth be told, some of the comments and e-mails I received earlier in the year were very personal and insulting. I have pretty tough skin, but devoting the time it takes to research and write for this blog (time I'm spending away from my family for little or no compensation) seemed to go by unappreciated except for a few loyal readers who kept me going. I'm not asking for praise or acceptance, but courtesy. If you don't like what you're reading here, simply move on. There are PLENTY of handbag blogs on the web. There's no need to hang around reading mine if my opinions are "worthless". I plan to continue sharing my "worthless" opinions and I'll begin with this fabulous metallic See by Chloé Day Tripper.

Coming in at just over the all important $500 mark, this sporty handbag receives a touch of urban chic with the addition of gold and silver flecks over the entire black leather exterior. It has the usual Day Tripper front zippered pockets and detachable shoulder strap. It's still a fun and relatively affordable day bag, but now it's cool enough to use at night.

It's good to see this moderately-priced line continues to evolve, even if it is at a relatively slow pace. The metallic See by Chloé Day Tripper is another step in the right direction.

Available for $520 via Net-A-Porter

Alexander Wang Tai Train Case Bag

2010-06-08T14:12:00.000-04:00

I think many designer handbag enthusiasts will agree that Alexander Wang's foray into handbag design has produced mixed results. Initial designs were promising and edgy, but sub-par construction and deceptive marketing photography yielded a debut grouping that required much improvement. The past two seasons provided only countless rehashings of the Coco (I mean, Rocco - oh, whatever!), and, frankly, I was losing hope of ever seeing any cool bags from the design world's "cool" kid. But lately there are glimmers of hope on the horizon. One ray of light in Wang's dark and modern utilitarian world comes by way of the Tai Train Case Bag.

This bag is sharp and absolutely adorable in a simplistic sort of way. Is this bag practical? Probably not (it's not very big at 9 x 7.5 x 3). Is it cheap? Well, at $750, it's all relative. Is it fabulous? YES!!! C'mon now, a cute little train case? How could it not be? The strap and studs closure is masculine, and the square shape is boyish as well, but this is Alexander Wang we're talking about, folks. That's exactly how he wants his ladies to look - hip, sophisticated and a tad "Adam-ish". If you have $750 lying around, this could be a fun option for that whimsical bag every gal should have. Granted, the Tai Train Case Bag isn't your typical whimsical design, so use your imagination :-)

Available via Saks.com

Elaine Turner Sierra Clutch

2010-05-20T12:13:00.001-04:00

Thought you could get rid of me, huh? Well, ha! You couldn't even if you tried. I'm back and looking better than ever (the blog that is. I could use some smoothing around the edges ;-) So what do we think of the re-design, folks? Do tell!

Should we talk about bags? Yes, please! I've been dying to talk about them, but the well has been dry for some time. It's the inevitable consequence of that transition period between seasons. Slowly but surely, more and more pre-fall bags are beginning to make their way onto the web, but I'm all about summer bags right now. In fact, I've been looking for a good sized clutch perfect for those outdoor summer occasions that always come up, and this affordable Elaine Turner Sierra Clutch is just the ticket.

An "everyday" clutch with ample (but not enormous) proportions can be tricky to find, but the internet never fails to yield great results. The 'Sierra' measures a comfy 6 x 9 x 1.25, large enough to house a wallet, keys, lipstick and cell phone. The creamy light gold leather exterior has a pebbled texture that gives the 'Sierra' a casual feel while the bamboo-style hinged closure gives it a tropical look. Of course, my favorite elements are the framed top and pleated front, but I'm traditional that way. You know that.

Available via neimanmarcus.com for $175 (wowza!)

Chanel Resort 2011

2010-05-19T05:00:00.002-04:00

The number of bags on Chanel's Resort runway {if you can call a sandy albeit glamorous boardwalk in Saint-Tropez a runway} made my head spin. Let's start with the length--long straps on bags are in. That much is sure.

And chain, chain is big too--especially when it has that Jackie O. late 60s/70s vibe.

There was a grasscloth clutch emblazoned with the double C's that had a cool jet set appeal {although I'm not a fan of the big logo}.

This square classic is a slam dunk and the long skinny chain is perfect for what's going on with bags right now.

The bucket bag was one of my favorites, with it's updated long wristlet handle.

Finally this sweet little mini bag captured the magical mood of long days at the beach and luxe living.

Where did we go? To get a MAKEOVER!

2010-05-17T12:54:00.001-04:00

Wondering what happened to Señora Cartera? Well, the answer is I'm working on a MAJOR overhaul of the site. It will return with an entirely new look and feel, and I hope you will all love it as much as I do. The designer is chugging away to help me brand Señora Cartera the way I'd always envisioned (except I'm a tech klutz and wouldn't know HTML if it jumped up and slapped me with a Birkin ;-)

Bear with me while we make this place a fun, happy and fashionable place to visit on the web. I promise I'll be back with a vengeance and looking fierce, too.

See ya soon!

What I Got for Mother's Day

2010-05-04T12:27:00.002-04:00

I had a rare opportunity to pick ANY (yes, ANY) bag I wanted over the weekend as a gift from my hubby and kids for Mother's Day. So which bag did I ultimately pick? Well, my choice might surprise those of you that read the blog regularly. I skipped over Lanvin, Marc Jacobs, Balenciaga (well, I have too many of those bags to begin with), and Fendi. In the end, I picked a bag from.....Michael Kors! No, I don't have a fever. I'm not hallucinating or anything like that. I actually wanted a Michael Kors bag. In fact, I wanted several MK bags. At one point I had four bags dangling from both my arms in an attempt to make a final decision. My hubby even offered to let me walk away with a few of them, but I'm not an extremist and only wanted one. My final choice was this python-embossed, sand-colored Gansevoort N/S Tote. It's without a doubt one of the most spacious, well-appointed bags I've ever purchased. In my book, it was worth every penny of its $450 price tag.

Two inconspicuous side pockets, four interior patch pockets and a large zippered pocket offer tons of storage options. A detachable strap is great for keeping my hands-free while I carry my son around, but the big draw for me was the look and feel of the exterior. I compared it to the Skorpios Python Tote they had on display and, let's just say, you could have fooled me into believing the Gansevoort was the real deal as well. I wanted to include a photo of the bag so you could appreciate how misleading online photos can be. The MK website shows the same exterior as being a grey/white rather than the sand beige/brown it actually is. As I always say, when in doubt, try it out (IRL!).

This tote isn't available online, but you can find it at most Michael Kors stores. If exotics (real or faux) are not your thing, the Gansevoort also comes in thick, yummy leather. Black, cream and a dark beige versions were the ones I saw on display. In case you were wondering, the Moxley, Jennings and Hamilton python-embossed bags were my other choices. So what do you think of my new baby? Don't be shy. I can take the criticism.

The Cross Body Bag

2010-05-03T20:16:00.001-04:00

cross body bags by trustyourstyle

The cross body bag is one of my favorite new styles because slinging a bag over your body gives you the freedom of worrying about one less thing. The classic cross body bag is a simple square with a long strap, but this season it's showing up in all sorts of colors and shapes from the McQueen saddle bag to D&G's duffel bag and all sorts of sizes and shapes in between. My personal favorite is the corsetted two pocket cross body bag by Gussto.

Tory Burch Tevin Satchel

2010-04-26T19:50:00.001-04:00

The current economic environment is providing us with a golden opportunity to be more informed and diligent when we shop. I know most of you are busy with the demands of daily life and require sound advice when making expensive bag purchases. Wouldn't you be thrilled to incorporate a simple, chic work-horse-of-a-bag into your wardrobe for under $500 therefore saving some of your hard-earned money? Of course you would. Meet the Tevin Satchel from Tory Burch. I promise she'll treat you real good :-)

The 'Tevin' might be short on ostentatious charm, but she's certainly long on providing shoppers with a harmonious blend of style and function. The generous dimensions (14 x 14 x 7) as well as dual top handles and a long detachable shoulder strap lend this unassuming design the practical "nuts-n-bolts" budget conscious fashionistas are searching for. At a time when designer bags are being drowned in unnecessary detailing and embellishments, the Tevin Satchel shows her more expensive peers how its done - for less. I'd normally post this find on our budget site, Señora Cartera On A Budget, but I think the design itself merits a mention here. Even discerning designer bag lovers enjoy a "cheap" thrill now and then.

Tory Burch Tevin Satchel available in red or black leather for $595 via shopbop

Tune In Tonight to "On the Air With Señora Cartera" Q & A Show

2010-04-23T13:18:00.001-04:00

A quick reminder that our latest installment of "On the Air With Señora Cartera" will be live tonight at 6:00 PM, EST. Hope you'll tune in and call with any questions you have regarding our favorite obsession - handbags! I'll be sharing my answers to a few questions we received via e-mail as well as reviewing the Chloé Louise Shoulder Bag and Proenza Schouler PS1 Mini Messenger Bag. If you'd like to call into the show, click here just before show time and use our toll-free number to chat with us. Until then...

Jimmy Choo Daphne Clutch

2010-04-23T11:16:00.000-04:00

"Variety is the spice of life", and the Jimmy Choo Daphne Clutch is an unexpected example of this age-old saying. Just when I thought patent leather was becoming passé, in comes 'Daphne' to set me straight. The sleek, shiny black patent exterior resembles a portfolio more than it does a clutch. It measures 9 x 7 x 2 and sports a sexy corset detailing along the sides. But the absolute best part of the design is the way you access the interior. The bag is divided into two parts, top and bottom, and they come apart like a puzzle. It's worth noting that the very design element that makes the 'Daphne' interesting is also a major functionality issue. Only the bottom half of the bag can house your essentials so don't expect to count on more than about 5" of height for just that purpose. I know, that's a pesky problem, but the bag is fresh, and a little inconvenience can be overlooked. I'm not so sure the bag is worth its $1200 price tag, though. I'll leave that decision up to your discretion. There's no denying this ultra-modern design has a decidedly "fierce" vibe that will appeal to hard-core fashionistas so pricing might not factor into the decision-making process for those of you looking for something different.

Available via jimmychoo.com

A Little Bird Told Me

2010-04-21T20:04:00.003-04:00

Being that you are a bag-loving reader, I'm sure you can relate to the symptoms of spotting "the perfect bag". A bag so wonderful that it makes you lightheaded as your heart races, your pulse quickens and your pocketbook deflates at the prospect. And yes, I have succumbed to these sorts of dizzying palpitations after glimpsing the new Valentino Glam Bird Bag in Candy Pratts Price's latest Accessory Report. I love everything about it from the little sparkly bird perched atop this ladylike bag, which gives it an otherworldly whimsical touch, to the sweet ruffled bib under the clasp. Not to mention the crisp shape fashioned out of soft white leather--so impractical but impossible to deny the chic black and white possibilities that come to mind.

I'm not saying that this piece is for everyone, but dear bag-loving readers, I am swept off my feet by this lovely handbag and the fact that it's a Valentino is just icing on the cake!

Now I'm off to tweet about this pretty find!

Marc Jacobs Dancer Bag

2010-04-19T16:16:00.000-04:00

What kills me about the Marc Jacobs Dancer Bag is the fact that, if you remove the tassels, the bag would be quite amazing. It has plenty going on even without the tassels. A quilted leather exterior, perforations, eyelet detailing and chain inset top handles would normally be entirely too much for one bag to take, yet this design manages to do it in a classic and sophisticated way. But then Jacobs went a ruined a good thing with an overload of tassels, and the bag went straight to hell without passing "Go" or collecting $200! Measuring 15 x 11 x 6.5, the 'Dancer' possesses the right proportions to make it an adequate day bag, but whatever the bag has going for it doesn't really matter. This walking chandelier is a lost cause. Oh, almost forgot to mention it's priced at $2500. Too bad you couldn't collect those $200 I mentioned earlier. It might have made a slight dent in such a huge (and unmerited) price tag. Kind of hard to believe Jacobs, the same man responsible for creating this fall's stunning Louis Vuitton collection (not to mention his masterful namesake collection), thought up this messy bag.

Available via net-a-porter.com

Be & D Summer 2010 Preview

2010-04-16T18:12:00.005-04:00

Run to the nearest Saks store or other boutique that carries Be&D bags. Their summer 2010 collection has something for everyone (and in my case that "something" is pretty much everything). The well-rounded collection includes a healthy number of shoulder bags, totes, satchels and clutches, but I'll cut to the chase and reveal my top three picks from the bunch.

1) Woodstock Hobo - This design, whether it's done in leather or straw, is a chic alternative for a year-round everyday bag; it's roomy and displays enough detailing to draw attention without being overtly trendy. Leather renditions (the terracota version is pictured on the lower right corner above) range in price from $995-$1065 depending on color, texture and detailing. The new straw version (pictured above in black) is a great choice for summer (especially in SoFL) and is priced at a more affordable $795.

2) Henley Shoulder Bag - Be & D's focus on chain-strapped shoulder bags is a welcome respite from the studded satchels of the past. They've produced several winners, but the 'Henley' is by far the most "classic" design thus far. The label's use of textured leather is paired with a lone nickel push lock closure and top to bottom chain shoulder strap. The "tugging" effect many of you complained about on the new 'Genesis' bag is pleasantly absent from the 'Henley'. The taupe version (top row, third from left) is my pick for summer, but it also comes in basic black and both are priced at $875.

3) Woodstock Small Shoulder Bag - Another fab shoulder bag from Steve Dumain with the same large stud-accented belt detailing found on the hobo style. This flap top bag is deceptively large (12.5 x 8.5 x 2) and surprisingly luxe (a suede-lined interior is a nice touch). It'll work from day to night without making you skip a beat. It comes in several colors and finishes and ranges in price from $595-$1395. My pick is the faux roccia in taupe ($895). It's dreamy in person and well worth the price. If you're not into faux finishes, an authentic snakeskin doppelgänger (pictured on the top left hand corner above) is also available for $1395.

My only complaint with the collection is directly against the Genesis Bag (top row, third from right). This is a good bag that needs some additional tweaking to get it to wear it needs to be. Just by looking at all the celebs photographed with the bag, it's obvious the "tugging" that occurs when carried by the top handle is not an attractive or acceptable result. Carrying it across the body or on the shoulder works well, but in order to be a great bag it needs to function on all levels. I'm confident this design is most definitely salvagaeable.

M Missoni Slouchy Hobo

2010-04-15T12:32:00.002-04:00

My rather rough week (feeling under the weather, helping out at my son's pre-school and planning a birthday party) is sucking the very life out of me. My "blah" mood was quickly livened up by this affordable yet luxurious-looking M Missoni Slouchy Hobo. Its' supple tan leather exterior reminds me of a non-ominous rain cloud. This puffy slice of bag goodness features knot detailing on the shoulder strap and cut-out sides. If you haven't listened to our last "On the Air With Señora Cartera" web radio show, some of the discussion revolved around current trends which include knots. This design incorporates the trend in a large and relaxed way, and the results are fabulous. It measures 15.5 x 15.5 x 6, the perfect proportions for a practical day bag. A logo-lined interior and leather-trimmed zippered pocket round out the roomy interior. There is a rather pesky logo tag hanging from the strap, but it's removable so you can chuck it in the trash like I do. The design's most appealing features are the cut-out sides. It's a visually interesting option for an often neglected part of a bag's anatomy. The M Missoni Slouchy Hobo gets my stamp of approval for this reason alone, but the rest of it is pretty awesome. And the $695 price tag doesn't hurt either.

Available via shopbop.com

Celebrity Style: Lady GaGa Commits a MAJOR Crime Against Fashion

2010-04-13T20:17:00.002-04:00

WARNING!!!

If you're an Hermés fan, look away or simply leave this site immediately!!!!!!

I MEAN IT!!! LEAVE NOW!!!

THIS IS YOUR LAST WARNING!!!

You proceed at your own risk. Don't say I didn't give you ample warnings.

As much as I love Lady GaGa and admire her boundless talents, I think it's safe to say the singer has committed her fair share of fashion faux pas. Her latest crime, however, is simply unpardonable. One look at the photo below illustrates the cardinal rule every handbag lover knows by heart - NEVER WRITE ON YOUR DESIGNER BAG!!!

C'mon, writing "I Love Little Monsters" in Japanese on your expensive white Hermés Birkin bag is just about the dumbest (and juvenile) thing anyone who appreciates fashion can do. Perhaps this bag was just a drop in the bucket for her in terms of money, but the time, artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making a Birkin merits more respect than she demonstrated. If Lady GaGa wished to acknowledge her Japanese fans, taking out a billboard ad on one of the busiest streets in Tokyo would have been a more appropriate choice. I love you GaGa Girl, but this time you crossed the line. Tisk, tisk, tisk (yes, I'm wagging my finger at the screen as I write this).

Photo source: bestweekevertv

Pleated To Meet You

2010-04-12T13:24:00.004-04:00

One thing is for sure, bags are heading towards texture. I love some of the techniques being applied to bag exteriors lately and the ruched leather effect as seen on the Fall '10 bags at Burberry is one of my favorite trends.

I think there's something sensuous and lush about their new bags that look as if they were somehow organically pleated. It's also nice that the shapes aren't too fussy--Burberry sticks with a simple half moon hobo and tote with muted bright colors and lets the fabrication do most of the talking.

Photos via Style.com

Hervé Léger Corded Saddle Bag

2010-04-12T10:00:00.002-04:00

This is the case of a fairly interesting yet ridiculously overpriced bag. Hervé Léger, a brand best known for producing curve-hugging 'bandage' dresses, has expanded its' reach to include handbags. The Corded Saddle Bag (pictured) is a promising beginning. I like the casual saddle bag style enhanced by corded applique detailing. It's a pretty good size (10 x 10 x 4) and has plenty of length (21" strap), but I think they missed the mark by going with suede-backed canvas for the finish. Leather would've been a more challenging (and high-end) choice. When I see the corded detailing I'm definitely reminded of Léger's bandage dresses, but there is nothing remotely appealing about a canvas bag that, although interesting to look at, is priced at $1200. I'm amazed the folks in charge at Hervé Léger would think this bag is worth that much. What's even more surprising is that there were any buyers who felt the same (yes, I mean you, Shopbop buyers). The designers need to tweak this design, and most definitely re-think their pricing policy. And before anyone offers the excuse that the "cording" involves quite a bit of workmanship to accomplish therefore justifying the steep price, I'd counter that reasoning by saying "perhaps with leather, but not with canvas". I'm just not buying this design, figuratively speaking or in real life.

Hervé Léger Corded Saddle Bag available via shopbop.com

La Trend Of All Trends {imho}

2010-04-09T16:54:00.006-04:00

Bag people, imho {in my humble opinion for you non-texter/tweeters}, are a special breed. From my experience, bag people will splurge and splurge big if there is enough bag love. They disdain that which is shoddy in quality. Sometimes they sniff at the baroque. But when it comes to an overriding trend, bag people love to be in the know. So in case you're a bag person who's been hiding under a rock, today is the day that will forever change the next 365 to 700+ days of your life. That's right bag people, there's a new trend in town...

According to my favorite street fashion photographer, Tommy Ton, whose discerning eye never misses a fashion beat, "Say goodbye to slouchy bags. The new it is small and square with a long strap, and more often than not from Celine." Click here to check out his latest photos of the chic set at the global fashion shows over at Style.com if you don't believe me.

Photo courtesy JakAndJil

Tune Into Our Live "On the Air With Señora Cartera" Q&A Show Tonight!

2010-04-09T13:02:00.000-04:00

A quick reminder to all our readers. Tonight is our first "LIVE" On the Air With Señora Cartera Q&A episode. This is your chance to call into the show and ask any handbag-related question or share any bag concerns you may have. We'll do our best to get you the information you need to get the bag of your dreams. Don't have any questions for us? That's OK. Just call and say "Hi". It's fine with us.

Visit our show page at 6:00 PM , EST and jot down our toll-free number. Hope you'll join us for some fun and informative designer handbag chat. Until then...

Salvatore Ferragamo "Pockets" Hobo

2010-04-09T11:09:00.003-04:00

Spring is here and summer is fast approaching (as my poor sun-burnt neck and shoulders will attest to). What better time to add a nice white bag to your collection. I happen to love white bags even if they're a pain in the you-know-what to keep looking clean and presentable. If you can manage to achieve this almost impossible task, then a white bag should rank high on your list of upcoming purchases.

The Salvatore Ferragamo "Pockets" Hobo exudes the understated elegance associated with Ferragamo while the relaxed shape of the hobo and the clever hidden gancio knockers on the front pockets provide a hint of modern sophistication lacking in past SF designs. The leather exterior is amazingly soft and supple, and the crisp white color is the "brightest" white I've seen this season. I'm sure you'll agree with me when I say that the latest crop of Ferragamo bags are a vast improvement from just last season. This design showcases the subtle changes taking place in regards to Ferragamo accessories. Instead of shoving the gancio "knockers" on the front pockets in your face, they provide slits to slip them into. Voila! A Ferragamo bag that isn't overtly 'Ferragamo'.

This won't be just a pretty white bag that looks great but isn't very practical. The 14 x 13.5 x 3 dimensions provide more than enough space to house all your daily essentials and then some. My only complaint is, once again, the limited drop space from the single top handle. C'mon, give us at least 7" on these handles. Think of the chunky girls!!! We have money to spend, too. My petite or average size readers will have no problem with the shoulder clearance, and the hobo's reasonable $1150 price tag just about seals the deal.

Available via saksfifthavenue.com

Deal Of The Day: YSL Bow Bag

2010-04-08T16:57:00.003-04:00

How is it possible I never reviewed the YSL Bow Bag on Señora Cartera? What an oversight! I'm ashamed of myself, if I'm being honest. The lovely Bow Bag, most famously seen on the arm of Dita Von Teese, is one of YSL's most well-executed bag designs. The bows are reminiscent of those found on a gift box, and although the folds are large in scale, they do not overpower the design. The designers employ the seams along the bow as well as one down the center of the bag to create the label's iconic "Y" logo. Of all the versions I've seen, my favorite is the stone grey leather bag Dita rocked last year. This shade of grey serves as a practical neutral backdrop for the design's masculine bowler style and spacious interior (16.5 x 11.5 x 5.5) while the bows give it the perfect feminine touch. This is a great go-to bag for the woman that wants to project a more sophisticated workday persona without looking stuffy. I mean, how uptight can you be if your bag has a pretty bow on it? If you act now, you can score this sublime beauty for $1436 (about 20% less than retail) on bluefly.com. Don't dilly-dally, though. There's only one of them left!

When Bags Meet Art

2010-04-06T13:44:00.005-04:00

Borbonese, a century old Italian fashion house known for their handbag collaborations with Fendi, Valentino, Ungaro, and Yves Saint Laurent, is presenting their Art Bag Anniversary Collection with the Roy Lichtenstein Foundation.

I like the red leather piping, minimal use of tasteful hardware and simple construction on the Borbonese Lichtenstein Two Apples Tote, but I'm not sure how I feel about the screened Lichtenstein on a bag--after all, I've never been big on the "turn this outfit into a room" features in interior magazines and blogs. To me there needs to be a clever element in order to make the art-to-fashion transition work, and this bag is a straight ahead slapping of an image on a bag. That said, if you are a die-hard Lichtenstein fan, then this bag might be worth checking out. While Lichtenstein's paintings go for millions, you can have this bag for $787 at Luisa Via Roma.