Designer Handbag Reviews At Señora Cartera

Versace Thriller Bucket Bag

2010-03-17T13:24:00.001-04:00

What's that saying..."The Proof is in the Pudding"? Well, in the case of this bag, the proof of how utterly clueless the house of Versace has become is in the bucket. The Thriller Bucket Bag to be exact. I'm not sure why it's called the "Thriller" aside from it being a reference to Michael Jackson, but even the eccentric singer had more fashion sense in the famous video for the hit song than this poor bag does.

There is entirely too much going on here. Medusa medallion detailing, mirrored studs, printed leather exterior, whipstitching, perforated top, drawstring closure - are you exhausted yet? I am. I'm actually exhausted from having to look at this fug bag for more than, let's say, a millisecond. But, wait, it gets better. The Versace Thriller Bucket Bag comes with a $3250 price tag to make certain anyone who buys it is a bona fide fool. If you've set your sights on an ugly bag, at least make sure it's cheap. Don't let Versace brainwash you into believing this bag is in any way chic. I'd rather carry a fake (and I mean reeaaalllyyyyy fake) Louis Vuitton than be seen anywhere with something as ghastly as this bag. Now I know why they named it 'Thriller' - it would make the perfect accessory for one of the newly-risen zombies from the MJ video.

Wild & Wooley at Chanel

2010-03-16T06:00:00.002-04:00

I'm back with more on Chanel, because in addition to the novelty ice cube bags, the first faux fur Chanel bags in the history of the company hit the Fall '10 runway. The white puff above isn't too bad, but the rest remind me of Chubaka--not really the direction I hope for in a new Chanel bag. What are your thoughts?

photos courtesy Style.com

Valentino Nuage "Net" Tote

2010-03-15T23:28:00.002-04:00

I spotted the Valentino Nuage "Net" Tote over the weekend and made an IMMEDIATE bee-line for it. From far away, I wasn't entirely sure the bag was made from leather, but once I got up close I let out a tiny squeal of delight. YES, IT'S LEATHER!!! An intricately patterned leather bag that's not from Bottega Veneta. I was seriously floored. What was even more shocking was the fact that the "netting" effect on this Valentino tote is so much more chic and relaxed than the classic intreciatto we've grown accustomed to seeing from BV.

While many Valentino bags have irked me as of late, this design reminds me why I used to like the brand's accessories so much. The 'Nuage' is a spacious tote with a very "high-end" feel, and that's exactly what one looks for in a functional designer bag. Even though I see the 'Nuage' in Miami quite often, I'm always struck by its' beauty. It's stylish, practical and very feminine. I mean, it's main attraction is a pretty bow. How can you argue with a decorative element that makes a design look sweet and edgy all at once? I know many of you will argue with the price on this one ($2295), but, after seeing the exquisite netted exterior, I'd be hard pressed to fault them wanting for wanting to recoup the workmanship employed to achieve such gorgeous results.

Valentino Nuage "Net" Tote available via neimanmarcus.com

Chanel On The Rocks

2010-03-15T06:00:00.007-04:00

Karl Lagerfeld went for an arctic theme in his Fall 2010 collection, and while his sweaters and knit-wear may be some of the strongest pieces he's designed, I'm predicting the ice cube handbags are going to be for hardcore Chanel collectors only. Definitely gives rocking a bag a whole new meaning...

photos courtesy Style.com

Chloé Fall 2010 Collection: Say It Ain't So, Hannah

2010-03-12T15:21:00.005-05:00

Chloé's fall 2010 runway bags are the most disappointing bunch of arm candy I've seen in quite some time. When a label, under the highly-edited and expert eye of a creative director such as Hannah MacGibbon, goes from producing an endless parade of hit bags (Sally, Paraty and Marlow to name a few) to bags like the ones on display at Chloé's runway show, something is definitely amiss.

While creating a collection heavily influenced by the long-haired, trouser-wearing American beauties of the 1970s, MacGibbon carried the simplistic motiff straight through to the accessories. Suddenly everything looked boring, dated and entirely played out. How can I expound on drawstring shoulder bags and "boston" satchels? There's nothing to say because these designs are devoid of style. They're like vanilla pudding - OK, but not scrumptious like chocolate.

I'm disheartened by this collection, and truly hope we'll be seeing more of our favorites come fall. Please, Hannah, say it ain't so. Tell me you've still got your "mojo" because I'm starting to doubt, and I don't want to lose faith in you. Come back strong next time, and ditch these yawn-inducing bags right quick.

Photo source: style.com

The Bag Coalition: Bag-Related Links From Around the Web

2010-03-12T14:00:00.001-05:00

Handbag Report is hosting an exclusive Onna Ehrlich giveaway

BagPoor previews the Rebecca Minkoff handbag collection and Fall presentation

Handbag du Jour reviews fifties-inspired Fall 2010 bags by Louis Vuitton

Giuseppe Zanotti Che-Embellished Suede Clutch

2010-03-12T09:25:00.002-05:00

I'm fairly certain no other bag I have ever reviewed has elicited such a visceral response from me. I've spent the past few days going back and forth trying to decide if I should even mention it on the blog. I like to tackle a bag from an aesthetics prospective, and this clutch will be no different. This Giuseppe Zanotti clutch is a basic black suede hand-held bag with an asymmetrical fold-over flap, fairly spacious main compartment and internal zippered pocket for additional storage. The flap is embellished with a crystal-encrusted bust of Che Guevara. I'm not a fan of putting a person's face on a bag as a decorative element, but this brand's choice of personage is what has me incensed.

Of all the human beings that have ever walked the face of this Earth, why, oh why, would they decide to go with this man. I see people walking around with El Che shirts all the time, and I'm tempted to stop them and ask what they find appealing about wearing a murderer's face on their body. Please understand me, I'm not trying to be political or controversial here. This is a bag blog. I like to keep things light and breezy, but for most Cubans (like myself and my family), Che Guevara was a murderer that helped another murderer destroy a country and its people for ever. Seeing someone walking around with his face on a shirt or, in this case, on a bag is as blood-curdling and insulting as it would be for a Jewish person seeing Hitler's face on an article of clothing or a bag.

Choosing to wear or use items like this is a form of promoting and glorifying people who don't deserve it. I know most people just think he looks "cool" and have no idea what atrocities were perpetrated on his orders, so just take it from me - he wasn't a nice man and he's definitely not cool. If you don't agree with me, just think of how someone who lives in NY and lost a loved one on 9/11 would feel if they spotted some woman walking down 5th Ave with an Osama Bin Laden crystal-encrusted clutch. There are so many other opportunities one has in life to be an insensitive jerk, why pay $650 for a cheesy bag to be one? You might want to read a very interesting post by The Bag Snobs about a rather controversial Judith Leiber clutch so you can get a better understanding of the implications of using religious or political icons on handbags.

I'll be stepping off my soapbox now. If you still want this bag, it's available via net-a-porter.com.

Louis Vuitton Fall 2010 Collection: "I Die!!!"

2010-03-11T09:30:00.001-05:00

I know my choice of titles is quite indulgent, but it pretty much sums up how I feel about Louis Vuitton's fall 2010 collection. In the immortal words of nutty stylist to the stars, Rachel Zoe, "I DIE!!!". I'm about to type words I never in a million, gazillion years thought would pour out through my fingers. GULP! Here it goes...

The best collection of the fall 2010 season belongs to Louis Vuitton.

Holy smokes! I still can't believe I actually said that, but it's absolutely 100% true. Marc Jacobs gave us the best collection out of New York, and now he delivers the best collection out of Paris (except McQueen's posthumus showing which is in a class all by itself - more on that collection tomorrow). Oh, Marc. You never cease to surprise us with your almost maniacal sense of design. Last season you forced us to endure silly fox tail-accented backpacks with tassels and phone cords as embellishments, and now you give us this - beautiful, vintage-inspired bags that make my heart ache with happiness.

I just want to mention how wonderfully tailored and flattering this collection is for women of my size. I could see myself wearing every piece in this collection. The a-line leather skirts are simply divine. Every dress, every coat, every article of clothing and accessory from this collection is retro-chic. It bears repeating this, folks - "I DIE".

I'm tempted to gush over this amazing display of bags, but I feel the images speak for themselves. Doctor satchels, flap bags with vintage-looking push-lock closures, even bags clad in LV's ubiquitous monogram pattern are exquisite. The restraint, the sheer brilliance of this collection reminds me, once again, why Marc Jacobs is one of the greatest designers of our time. I'll stop now, and let all of you bask in the glory of Louis Vuitton's fall 2010 bag collection. I'll just continue to "die" on my side of the computer.

Photo source: style.com

Lee Mattocks Bags on Bagpoor.com

2010-03-10T16:47:00.001-05:00

Take a few minutes to read Michael St. James' latest post featuring British accessories designer, Lee Mattocks. This up-n-coming designer's bags, infused with artistic and historical references, are beautiful and edgy. This "Lee" reminds me of another "Lee" we lost all to soon.

Photo source: Bagpoor.com

Nina Ricci Fall 2010 Collection: Out With the Drama, In With the Dramatic

2010-03-10T10:02:00.000-05:00

What's the difference between drama and dramatic? In the case of French fashion house Nina Ricci, a head designer. Even though this is Peter Copping's second collection for the label, it is the first where his work, and not the bickering and drama of Olivier Theysken's departure, took center stage.

The fall 2010 collection was dramatic in the best sense. It remained loyal to Nina Ricci's tradition of feminine detailing, but it was all done in a highly tailored manner. Ruffles, ruching and lace are still en vogue according to Copping, Nina Ricci's creative director and Marc Jacobs' former right-hand man at Louis Vuitton. A red bustier with ruffle-accented cups demonstrates how much Copping's former mentor influenced the designer's artistic tendencies. Jacobs-inspired designs populated the runway. A pale rosebud-embellished tank delighted spectators with its' gathered tulle back. A black fitted jacket and matching pencil skirt that appeared quite ordinary dazzled all once the model turned to leave the catwalk and revealed the lace-detailed back. It's as fierce as Nina Ricci can get. This is probably the first Nina Ricci collection I find myself excited about, and it's time to focus on the main reason for this enthusiasm.

For those of you remotely familiar with the label's foray into handbags, their past disastrous offerings come as no surprise. Frilly shoulder bags, horse shoe emblazoned satchels and totes with hanging ribbons are all we've seen from Nina Ricci, and who'd want bags like that? Even NR's loyal "ladies-who-do-tea" clientele would be hard pressed to find fulfillment in such overpriced, fug bags. Their handbags were in dire need of new blood, and this collection has certainly provided it.

Only a few designs were on display, but what we saw was promising. There wasn't a horse shoe in site, and the frou-frou bags were history. In their stead were leather shoulder bags with hair pin-accented, gathered fold-over flaps. I can't tell you how much I love these bags. They're like a Falchi bag restyled to fit in at Tavern on the Green (if it were still open). Fabulous! There were still a couple of Ricci-esque bags sprinkled in here and there, but nothing to fret about. Even those bags followed Copping's new direction, and that direction is nowhere in the vicinity of yesterday's drama. Thank goodness for that.

Photo source: style.com; elle.com

Academy Awards Style: Judith Leiber Garden Gate Minaudiére

2010-03-09T09:23:00.006-05:00

Awards season has finally come to an end, and what fashion lessons can be learned from them? Mainly, the importance of hiring a stylist. The right stylist, that is. I'm not certain who Twilight star and supporting actress nominee Anna Kendrick's stylists are, but they should command a nice paycheck for the fabulous job they did with her. Anna's Oscar gown was romantic and her overall look was divine. Complimenting her heavenly look was, what else, a Judith Leiber bag.

The Garden's Gate Minaudiére is the perfect foil for Kendrick's ethereal vibe. The bag, made to resemble an actual gate, is encrusted with pink, grey and clear Austrian crystals and features an encrusted push-lock closure and scalloped edges.

Let's hope Anna didn't shell out $3295 of her own money for this evening bag. It's certainly beautiful, and I'm sure the materials and craftsmanship justify the price, but that's still pretty steep for a tiny bag. I'm sure Kendrick's crafty stylist scored the expensive Leiber design for free as most nominated actresses do.

Judith Leiber Garden's Gate Minaudiére available via neimanmarcus.com

Photo source: oscar.com

Mid-Century Prada

2010-03-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back I told Dania I was interested in covering the new plaid Prada bag. Cough. That was before I realized it wasn't actually plaid. I'd caught a glimpse of it in a Pre-Fall '10 preview and felt a tinge of excitement to see what I thought was a red plaid bag making its way down the runway...

It's actually a Prada textile that has more of a mid-century feel to it. Up close you can discern that it's been printed on the same nylon fabric that originally lifted her label into stardom a couple of decades ago. So if you can get past what is bound to be an exorbitant price for a nylon bag, it appears to be sturdy. Nylon bags can bear a lot of wear and tear and the red leather croc pressed handles add a nice touch. I'm also liking the shape with generous roomy side compartments--very practical. It's potentially a fun every day bag that also carries the clout of Prada. I'm telling you, this bag could be rationalized.

For those who prefer a more sophisticated palette, it also comes in a mustard/teal version of the same print.

So tell me, like or no-like?

Fendi Fall 2010 Collection: It's Not Right, But It's OK

2010-03-08T18:03:00.003-05:00

My clever Whitney Houston song title reference aside, Fendi's fall 2010 collection was a lesson in what happens when a label's artistic director has entirely too much on his plate. I know many in the fashion world believe Karl Lagerfeld to be superhuman, but he's just a man who happens to be a great designer. Even this great designer, however, can suffer from mental overload. With three labels and countless collections to oversee in a year, his efforts for this Fendi outing fell flat. The looks were a tad depressing and bland and failed to live up to the more fashion-forward collections of the past. It seems this is Lagerfeld's answer to the global recession, but his namesake collection, which showed in Paris over the weekend, was incredibly chic and thought-provoking, not to mention flying in the face of financial uncertitude.

Beyond the disappointing clothes were the even more disheartening bags. The past couple of seasons treated Fendi fans to a slew of new designs, the most popular and successful being the Peek-A-Boo Bag. Many of us fell in love with this classic design and looked forward to newer, more exciting versions. Unfortunately, spring 2010 saw the introduction of a few new Peek-A-Boo bags that were a step backwards (the outed seams on the newer iterations were high on my list of unnecessary revisions). This fall provides very little in terms of the label's most attractive bag. Only a gorgeous lemon yellow leather Peek-A-Boo made me swoon. An odd, geometric-patterned patchwork Peek-A-Boo with a gag-inducing color palette made me want to scold that Fendi accessories design team. C'mon, guys! Is that the best you can do with such a fabulous design? Shame on you, and do better next time.

If you were waiting to see the controversial Skin Bags and their equally talked about overlays at this runway presentation, then you're out of luck. There wasn't one Skin Bag in the entire collection. They've either (a) decided to ditch the concept and the bags altogether or (b) there were just too many new styles to preview and runway space was too short and precious to devote to the design. I hope it's the latter that will win out because I'd like to see the "skin bag" concept developed even further. It's certainly an endeavor worthy of the "Kaiser".

So what about the new styles I just mentioned? Well, they were pretty boring. The square shoulder bags with metal-tipped corners made me want to yawn (which is great for my ear infection!). There were several bags with velvet, suede or feather accents as well as a heavy use of ostrich, but even the new front-pocket satchels and front flap shoulder bags seemed entirely played out. To further impress us (I say in a facetious tone), Fendi shoved their new personalization services down our throats with a copious display of initial-bearing tags. Whatever. I was bored. I'm still bored. I'll have to sit and wait another 6 months in the hopes that Lagerfeld takes a vacation or gets some rest. Maybe then we'll get a bag collection that's more than just OK.

Photo source: nymag.com

Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2010 Collection: Back to Basics

2010-03-05T21:08:00.010-05:00

With the global economy in the tank, designers are scrambling to reinvent themselves in the hopes of saving their floundering labels. One brand that seemed out of touch with the happenings of the outside world (much like Versace remains to this day) was Dolce & Gabbana. Notice how I use the past tense. The reason being that this Italian giant, known for dressing the most famous celebrities and socialites of the world, has gone back to basics, and we should all be happy.

Their slightly retrospective show delivered a series of re-styled vintage D&G pieces. The power jacket was back with a knit or tweed makeover. Silk corsets were prominently displayed, but covered up by long cardigans. Lingerie as outerwear (a D&G favorite) made several appearances, but even those looks felt restrained. Dolce & Gabbana, restrained? Now you know the financial market is really hitting fashion where it hurts.

But you want to know about the bags, of course. Well, there's an interesting thing about the bags we saw on the runway. With the exception of two or three nameless styles, the focus of Dolce & Gabbana's Fall 2010 collection was the 'Miss Sicily' Bag as well as a cross-body iPod holder. The Miss Sicily Bag, D&G's best selling handbag (and celebrity favorite), received heavy rotation on the runway. Lace, crochet and velvet all served as accents or finishes for this lady-like satchel. The wonderful thing about 'Miss Sicily' is that she's like the calm amidst a storm of confusion. Within a collection that returned to the roots of the iconic label, the 'Miss Sicily' cemented its role as the handbag staple it is and should be. While I still prefer the bold and colorful leather versions of this design, I'm genuinely attracted to all the other versions seen in Milan last week.

Don't think I'd end this review without addressing the iPod holders. I always save the best (or worst) for last. You're probably thinking I'm about to rag on these bags without compassion or mercy, right? Well, you'd be wrong. I like them. That's right. I actually like the little critters. Sure they're frivolous, over-the-top, and, frankly, unnecessary accessories, but that's part of their charm. The attached coin purses don't hurt them either. Some of the sequined versions are very "disco chic". Not that you'd carry one of these to a club. Taking a song player to a place that, well, plays songs is a bit redundant. If chain-strapped, bejeweled, cross-body iPod bags have a place in this world, it's slung across the carefully tailored torso of a chic urban dweller that power walks 15 city blocks to work and likes to bop to Lady GaGa while she travels. Someone like me doesn't have the time to listen to an iPod, let alone buy a fancy designer holder for it. I still like the holders, though, because even in today's somber economic environment we need a tad of frivolity to brighten up our day.

Photo source: style.com

Deal Of The Day: YSL Hidden Chain Roady

2010-03-05T15:18:00.000-05:00

The Hidden Chain Roady from YSL, one of the most popular designer bags of 2009, is on sale at bluefly.com. This chic, modern and functional bag is a great deal at its retail price ($1850), but the $1480 sale price makes it an enticing prospect and today's Deal Of The Day!

New Arrivals Alert: Tod's Python Shade Tote

2010-03-05T10:10:00.006-05:00

The stunning dove grey python Shade Tote I previewed back in January is now available on-line. You can make this exquisite bag yours for just under $3000. Head over to mytheresa.com if you're interested.

Marni Fall 2010 Collection: It's All In The Details

2010-03-04T14:22:00.005-05:00

I always look forward to Marni's runway show. I identify with the "modern mousy librarian" aesthetic Consuelo Castiglioni conveys so well. While I'd never dress in head-to-toe Marni, I'd probably accessorize an outfit with a handbag, shoes and jewelry from the Italian label. With Marni, it's all about the details. Because Castiglioni, Marni's founder and creative director, designs with simplicity and function in mind (albeit a simplicity that comes across as "mod" rather than modern), her accessories usually command the most attention on the runway.

Marni's Fall 2010 collection is one of the best Castiglioni has shown in recent memory, and it was certainly one of the best out of Milan. The jewelry pieces, particularly necklaces, were beyond spectacular. Varying shapes, lengths and materials were fused together in a dizzying yet blissful sort of way. I must have have the giant silver beaded necklace as soon as it arrives at the Miami Marni store. I mean, doesn't every woman need a set of giant silver balls around her neck? OK, that doesn't sound right, but you know what I mean. I love chunky, clunky jewelry and so do many of you. Yep, that's what I meant to imply...

Let's tackle the bags from this collection. Am I extremely excited about what I saw? No. Most of the styles we saw have been done before (as in 50 years ago). Was there anything wrong with what I saw? Well, no. I'd say the bags were darling and very practical, but they didn't WOW me. Would I run out and buy any of the bags I saw on the runway? With one glorious exception, probably not. So which bag tickled my fancy enough to make me pull out my credit card come fall? It's the classic yet modern white perforated leather framed tote. I could use that bag to death! The perforated detailing will work in Miami's eccentric fashion scene while the bag's timeless silhouette will keep me from looking like a total fashion victim. Instead, I'll look like a trendy librarian, and that's just the vibe I usually end up projecting.

Photo source: nymag.com

New Arrivals Alert: Chloé Python Paraty

2010-03-03T15:05:00.001-05:00

The Chloé Paraty (our pick for 2009's best designer bag) is back for spring, and it couldn't look any lovelier than this. Light blue python is a feminine and sophisticated option for the upcoming season. The spacious Paraty, with its dual top handles and convenient shoulder strap, is available via net-a-porter.com for a hefty $3825. It'll certainly drain your bank account, but I can't think of a better reason to brown bag tuna sandwiches.

Fendi Skin Clutch

2010-03-03T11:03:00.005-05:00

Did I have a major "moron" moment last night. As I was preparing my review of the Fendi Skin Clutch, I realized my entire opinion of the bag was wrong. Way, way wrong, in fact. The reason for my confusion is that Nordstrom's website erroneously lists this bag as a satchel. No wonder I thought the bag was ridiculous. It's a CLUTCH!!! (Note: Will the people that write up descriptions for retail websites get their !#@* straight for once.)

Now the dimensions and shape of the bag make perfect sense to me. Even with my style mix-up finally cleared up, however, I couldn't understand why the design sported tiny spikes along the top edge of the bag. Then I remembered Fendi's Skin Satchels from the Spring 2010 collection and it all clicked. A quick visit to Style.com confirmed that this is a Skin Clutch.

The spikes serve to hold overlays or "dresses" in place. Most of the overlays we saw on the runway were fabrics or embroidered linens. Those were a bit to quaint for my taste. I actually like the overlay concept, but I'd prefer different finishes. A studded "dress" would take this clutch from day to evening without leaving you saddled with a studded bag all day through. It's just an example of how the idea could work.

My problem with the Skin Clutch is that, if used without the overlays, the spikes look out of place. If you decide to purchase an overlay so the bag can actually function as it was designed to, be prepared to shell out some major dollars. The plain leather Fendi Skin Clutch is $1450 while most of the overlays are priced well over $1000 (the tulle version from the runway pics is nearly $2000). Yikes! The overlays are more expensive than the bag!!! I think Karl and his crew need to rethink this whole "skin bag" concept and come up with better overlays and more reasonable prices. Who am I kidding? This is the same label that priced their selleria Peek-A-Boo bags over $4000. They get a thrill out of making really expensive bags, but I'm afraid the Skin Clutch is not worth it.

Jill Sander Fall 2010 Collection: Tomb Raider Meets The Devil Wears Prada

2010-03-02T10:11:00.000-05:00

New York Fashion Week is all but a memory and London Fashion Week is, in my opinion, pretty irrelevant in terms of handbags (with the exception of Burberry Prorsum and Mulberry (with the latter now showing in New York as well). Milan is the next stop on the fashion show circuit, and it's a fast-paced, super-charged arena to say the least. With the abundance of talented designers and iconic labels strutting their stuff on the catwalks, sifting through all their looks can be a daunting task. Even the assurance of hours of work couldn't deter me from finding those gems all of you expect to see from the Italian fashion houses. I quickly found several collections that were worthy of mention here, and a few that are downright fantastic. The first of these comes from Jill Sander.

According to Style.com's resident fashion reviewer, Sarah Mower, the inspiration for their fall 2010 collection is a melding of two famous figures - Angelina Jolie (think Lara Croft) and Anna Wintour (think tweed-wearing editor-in-chief). Raf Simons, Jill Sander's creative director, took these visual references and crafted a somber, severe and pared down collection. Black was the color of choice with purples and greys scattered here and there to break up the monotony, but you're probably more interested in the bags. I know I am, and oh how this collection delivers the goods in that department.

To put it succinctly, the bags were F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!!! The styles and shapes offered by Simons and his design team were exquisitely detailed. Fold-over flaps and tabs were used as both functional pieces and decorative elements. They were on the tops and along the bottoms of most bags and fastened by everything from hidden snaps to Velcro!

The most notable detail and one used throughout the bag collection was the wide strap. Top handles, shoulder straps, pull tabs and wristlets all had the same design and function. From an aesthetics perspective, the wide straps were very much in keeping with the collection's "powerful women" theme. Although they could be described as masculine-looking, I think the straps provide an understated elegance within a modern context. Every bag in this collection is worthy of belonging to any discerning fashionista, whether she's a "Lara Croft" or a "Miranda Priestly" .

Photo source: style.com

Regarding Fall 10 Trends: Trussardi 1911

2010-03-02T05:01:00.004-05:00

When it comes to accessory trends, the whole world turns to Italy. Plain and simple, the changes start here. Trussardi 1911 is a one hundred year old Italian brand, and while many of their Fall bag designs are derivative of Chanel or Hermès, it's worth taking a look, if for nothing else than to check out the upcoming trend shifts.

Good bye rock'n'roll, hello slim 70s shoulderbag!

The most notable of all trends hitting the world of handbags is the use of leather, suede and fur all together.

Finally, get ready to see fabric trimmed bags.

Photos: style.com

BCBG MaxAzria Downtown Gallery Shoulder Bag

2010-03-01T14:40:00.002-05:00

I'll be the first to admit my spring 2010 must-have bags list wasn't big on color. In my defense, I tend to buy colorful bags from established labels rather than emerging designers. No particular reason why I do this, I just do. While I'm more likely to sport a red Chanel flap bag or orange Tod's tote than a yellow Treesje satchel or neon pink Rebecca Minkoff clutch, there are those rare moments when my senses and my pocket book meld together in harmonious handbag bliss.

My latest ecstasy-induced episode is all about the BCBGMaxAzria Downtown Gallery Shoulder Bag. There is not one single detail on this bag I can find fault with (I know, say what?). The rounded corners, fold-over flap and generous amount of storage options (5 pockets in all!) make this shoulder bag a budget-conscious shoppers dream. Sure the inner lining is inexpensive and the hardware is unremarkable, but those are minor "flaws" that only merit a passing mention. I'm more interested in the bag's $348 price tag as well as all the great colors it comes in. You can choose from denim blue or basic black glazed leather (less shiny than patent leather with a more distressed look) via bcbg.com or a gorgeous persimmon (orange/red) version available via saks.com. I'll be adding the latter to my collection very soon, and my hubby will be happy to know I've chosen this budget-friendly bag over a Chanel jumbo flap I was eyeing earlier.

Speaking of handbags and budgets, head over to Señora Cartera On A Budget and meet our newest contributor, stylist and blogger Yelena Bosovik. Yelena (a.k.a. LenkaLovee from Style My Happiness) will be offering readers her bag recommendations and reviews from a stylist's point of view. Her area of expertise is in the realm of budget-savvy fashions, so she and SCOAB are a perfect fit. Read her latest feature and leave a comment even if it's just to say "welcome".

Spring 2010 Top 10 "Must-Have" Bags

2010-02-28T20:11:00.014-05:00

There is something magical about spring. Thoughts of melting snow, blooming flowers and sun-kissed days invade the minds of every weary winter-phobe in the world, but, for fashionistas, getting their hands on the latest fashions is top priority. Here at Señora Cartera, we eagerly anticipate this time of the year more than any other. Winter months are spent quietly sifting through the upcoming trends with the goal of compiling a thoughtful list of spring's top 10 "must-have" bags.

Let's discuss what we should expect to see for the next several months in terms of handbag trends. Styles like the convertible tote and cross-body bag are sure to be represented by every major designer label. The classic shoulder bag is back in fine form. The latest reinventions of this timeless bag style are sure to have even "flap-bag" haters salivating. Exotics, which have been a major presence in the designer handbag market for several seasons, are stronger than ever. This is one trend that is definitely here to stay. Detailing and embellishments such as chain straps, perforated leathers, florals and ruffles represent the more feminine side of design while studs, fringe and military-inspired accents provide a harder edge. All in all there will definitely be a bag that appeals to every style and every age.

Now that we've dispensed with the necessities, it's time to get specific. Here is Señora Cartera's Spring 2010 top 10 "must-have" bags list:

Derek Lam Nadia Hobo

Derek Lam can do no wrong in our eyes. His knack for successfully redefining classic silhouettes and incorporating modern details like the asymmetrical lines, elongated shape and tassel embellishments of the Nadia Hobo make him our favorite designer this spring. It's no wonder his talents provide us with three of our top 10 bags.

Chloé Marlow Satchel

Regular readers of this blog will not be surprised that this bag made our list. The relaxed, boxy shape and belted detailing of the 'Marlow' will appeal to hard-core Chloé fans while still being a sophisticated handbag option for classic bag lovers. Hannah MacGibbon continues to impress as the creative force behind the revitalized French label.

Donna Karan Ribbons and Ropes Tote

Karan's foray into handbag design got off to a rocky start, but the past couple of seasons have proved the American fashion icon knows when to switch things up with impeccable results. The Ribbons and Ropes Tote has enough detailing to make it fresh and chic, but even those touches are done with elegance and restraint. Isn't that what Karan does best?

Alexander McQueen Faithful Crossbody Bag

An Alexander McQueen bag was sure to make our list even before his tragic death. Now that the fashion world mourns his genius, his fashions are in higher demand. The Faithful Crossbody Bag, a small yet finely executed "glam rock" design, is trendy, chic and pure perfection. Get one now and own a little slice of fashion history.

Be & D Tudor Shoulder Bag

While there were several contenders for the title of "Señora Cartera's" top shoulder bag of the season, the Be & D Tudor was the winner by a mile. The design's front flap style, textured leather exterior and long chain straps come together to make for the ideal modern take on the most classic bag style ever.

Sergio Rossi Sumo Hobo

Exotics are an expensive trend to incorporate into your wardrobe, but a bag like the python-embossed Sumo Hobo from Sergio Rossi gives us the look and feel of a high-end finish without the equally high price tag. In addition, the Sumo's slouchy shape will be difficult for most fashionistas to resist. As if anyone would want to resist such a chic bag!

Derek Lam Albertine Clutch

Only two clutches made our list, and it's no surprise one of them comes to us courtesy of Derek Lam. The designer's second appearance on our top 10 list is attributed to the sleek and sophisticated Albertine Clutch. It's a chic, practical design with an attractive price tag. In today's economic environment, who needs a $2000 clutch when something as gorgeous as the 'Albertine' is available for a 1/4 of the price?

Michael Kors Tonne Tote

Michael Kors is quickly becoming one of our favorite bag designers. The label continues to improve with each season and spring's 'Tonne' collection is proof of that. The gorgeous Tonne Tote boasts a modern look with luxe-looking hardware accents and trendy detailing. The bag is priced under $1000, and who can argue with wanting to acquire a great bag on a budget?

Mary Jo Matsumoto MJM Bag

Our very own Mary Jo makes the list with her MJM Bag. I've kept the contents of this list all to myself so this will be a surprise for Mary Jo. The MJM Bag is a timeless piece of handbag design that takes an envelope clutch and wraps it up in ultra luxe grey suede. The knot detail on the front flap is a fun, flirty touch that's totally on-trend. This affordable bag will class up your spring wardrobe and remain a staple well into fall.

Tod's Shade Tote

This list would not be complete without a Tod's bag, and the latest addition to the brand's impressive bag collection is another testament to Derek Lam's genius. As Tod's creative director, Lam brings a fresh new take to each of Tod's iconic bag designs. The Shade Tote is a new style that has Tod's loyal clientele buzzing with excitement. The structured tote comes in neutral colors like beige as well as bold offerings like electric blue and orange. When the economy tanks, fashionistas are pressed to make their dollars stretch further and further. A brand like Tod's (under Lam's watchful eye) will always deliver a safe handbag investment.

Miu Miu East-West Buckled Satchel

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What an absolutely chic bag! Prada's little sister has done good with the East-West Satchel. The black deerskin leather version is the ideal companion for the modern sophisticate. The fold-over flap is slightly reminiscent of a Birkin, but different enough to fit into Miu Miu's "youthful elegance" aesthetic. The satchel has a top handle as well as an adjustable shoulder strap (which you can remove for a more classic look). The gold-tone hardware contrasts with the dark leather exterior and adds a luxurious vibe to the overall design. Buckled straps along the front of the bag provide a utilitarian feel to the satchel that's totally on-trend. The designers were smart to make the straps functional but in an easy way. You won't need to fiddle with the buckles at all. The straps open and close through small push-through studs. Genius! Nab the Miu Miu East-West Buckled Satchel for $1650 via bergdorfgoodman.com, and invest in a great bag you'll use for many years to come.

I Want This Pink Man Bag!

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I know that Señora Cartera's stance on Louis Vuitton bags is perilous at best, which is why I leave the LV coverage to Dania. And while I don't consider myself much of a logo worshiper, I do have a confession to make. Every few months I find myself inexplicably eyeing Louis Vuitton logo luggage...

I mean, not that I need to justify it or anything like that, (haha of course I do!) but the Stephen Sprouse logo graffiti bag is still cool and iconic all these years later. And of course, I'm lusting after the Terry Richardson photo as well...

Photo via Style In Spades