Balenciaga Akyon Glitter Bags

One of my favorite songs to hear over the holidays is “Silver Bells”. It’s also one of my favorite colors with which to decorate. Sparkly silver with a little touch of gold really gets me in the mood for the season. Sparkles and glitter. Absolutely love it!

So I am really loving the new glitter bags by Balenciaga on MyTheresa! My Theresa is a German online site with service to the U.S. What this means is that you can find items not currently available in the states! Each Tuesday, they add 120 new items so there is a reason to come back week after week!

Beautiful leathers with glitter silver toned “optic” are featured in the Classic Papier Tote, Classic Money Wallet and Glitter Shoulder Bag. The designer color name is called Akyon. For those fans out there, and there are many, these should definitely be on your wish list.

LaLucca Art Bags

Prices of handbags continue to grow. I spend much more time thinking about my handbag purchases now, contemplating both price and quality. We first covered LaLucca a while back and they are more than worth coming back to discuss again.

The aptly named are comprised of a usable clutch shape which has been interpreted in canvas and leather and hand-painted by artist Aleksandar Kirilov. That makes each bag a unique design, as Kirilov transforms each cut pattern into a 3-D art piece. The colors and prints vary from subtle to bold. Best part is you can own a truly one-of-a-kind bag for $375. In today’s handbag market, the price is beyond agreeable and the design stands out.

With many options to choose from I narrowed it down to five of my favorite designs. A clutch is one of the best accessories to use as an art piece and LaLucca nails this arena of the handbag world (which in my opinion is lacking). We all love our little black dresses, which needs something like one of these clutches to stand out. Share your favorite Art Bag design from LaLucca with us in the comments section!

Balenciaga Spring 2011 is full of color, texture

Over its ten year history, the great strength of the Balenciaga motorcycle bag has been its ability to be something of a sartorial Rorschach test. Because of the design’s simple lines and ability to morph from shape to shape while still being unmistakably Balenciaga, a prospective customer can see in it whatever she would like to see, and Nicolas Ghesquiere & Co. have taken to releasing it in every color, material and silhouette possible. All the better to collect, my dears.

Balenciaga’s Spring 2011 handbags continue that tradition in leather both perforated and traditional, suede, straw, python, crocodile, velvet and canvas. Did I miss any? I might have. The collection also ranges in color from subdued, rich carmel to acid green snakeskin and hits just about every note in between. Whether your personal style is prim, punk or such that you might be compelled to buy a very expensive fanny pack (please don’t), there’s an option for everyone who has ever loved a motorcycle bag in this massive line.

Fendi makes the Peekaboo look fresh with texture and color

The Fendi Peekaboo Tote is getting to that point in its design life cycle where people start impatiently tapping their feet, awaiting the next thing from the brand. Spring 2011 holds a few options, but until those come to retail, this pink iteration of the popular Peekaboo might just be enough to hold your attention. I just have one question, though – what is this bag actually made of?

Bergdorf Goodman’s description lists the bag’s materials as goat and calf skin, but makes no mention of embossing of any sort. When I first looked at the bag, I assumed that I was looking at watersnake or lizard of some sort, since those two materials are generally the sort of thing that create the texture you see above. And then there’s the small matter of price: this Peekaboo costs $700 more than the goat and calf Peekaboo of the same size at Saks, which has no embossing and actually appears to be made of the aforementioned leathers. Bergdorf also stipulates that this bag cannot be shipped to Canada, although Fendi’s regular leather bags have no such stipulation that I can find on the company’s website.

So, I see two distinct possibilities: either Bergdorf’s has the material identifications wrong, or Fendi would like its customers to pay $700 for some embossing and a bright color. For the sake of my sanity and the luxury business as a whole, I hope it’s the former.

Balenciaga embraces brights for Spring 2011

Since Balenciaga doesn’t often show handbags on its Paris runway, getting a look at what Nicolas Ghesquiere has cooked up for an approaching season can be a little tricky. From the few pictures I’ve seen, Balenciaga Spring 2011 will feature brightly colored straw motorcycle bags similar to those from Spring 2010, but the addition of this colorblocked shopper is a bit more unexpected.

Spring 2011 prices have yet to be released, so if you’re a Balenciaga lover, what price would you want to see in order to be interested in this bag?

Chloé uses a multitude of materials to make a sleek little shoulder bag

When trying to design a high-end bag, mixing materials can turn into a risky proposition. If too many are used, or the use of the materials has a lack of sophistication, the final product can look patchworked and cheap very, very quickly. Luckily, the Chloé Billie New Small Messenger Bag manages to stay on the right side of the line.

By constructing the main body of the bag out of leather and canvas in shades of tan, Chloé gave this design texture without adding fussiness or confusion. Keeping the shiny black patent for use as trim only gives the bag a pleasantly vintage feel and even more wardrobe versatility.

A Matter of Taste: Food as Fashion

In a pairing of two of my favorite things, food and fashion, photographer Fulvio Bonavia released a book in 2008 titled A Matter of Taste. From handbags to shoes to jewelery, the photographs not only showcase food as fashion, but also shows that some still use their hands to create versus Photoshop. Each item in this book was created by Fulvio himself, who then photographed his creations.

I ran into this earlier this week and could not stop staring. As much as a broccoli handbag seems odd and smelly, the conceptual photograph makes it colorful and inviting. Other renditions include a raspberry clutch, blackberry Chanel-esque bag, a brick of cheese bag (I love cheese, this one is unexpectedly amazing), and a fresh blueberry clutch.

Which item is your favorite?

Vogue gives as a closer look at a piece of multicolor heaven from Fendi Spring 2011

You may or may not have liked Fendi’s Spring 2011 handbag collection, but you can’t argue that it was what fashion industry people call “directional.” Instead of merely designing safe, pretty accessories, Fendi’s handbags gave us a new way to think about combining color, structure and texture.

Vogue.com chose this Fendi Multicolor Woven Clutch to illustrate spring’s colorblocking trend in its Accessories Blackbook, but upon close examination, the design is interesting for more than just its use of color.

Which is not to say that this clutch’s bold color statement isn’t important; it is, and combinations like this one are what make Fendi’s spring accessories so timely. Not only is the clutch made of five different colors of leather, but the enamel-covered logo closure adds even more visual interest to the equation.

On top of that, though, Fendi clearly thought about how to take your average flap clutch and elevate it beyond the mundane. Instead of just using straight leather laces to create the woven pattern, the designers chose pieces of leather with a zig-zag edge pattern to make the weave even more intricate and detailed. It shouldn’t work, but somehow, it does. In spades.

Bags like this can be difficult to work into an existing wardrobe because of their clear personalities, but if you’ve got the extra cash and some patience, figuring out a way to add this bag (or any of Fendi’s other Spring 2011 options) to your personal collection will be well worth your while.

For the more conservative among us, Fendi also makes lovely sueded snakeskin

When we wrote about Fendi’s colorblocked clutch and what it portends for spring’s trends last week, your reaction was predictably split. A strong point of view will always divide people, even if all the people responding have great taste (and, duh, of course you do). For those of you who thought that Fendi veered into stank territory with that clutch, we present you with the Fendi Forever Mamma Anaconda Shoulder Bag.

I like this design for a couple of reasons. First, charcoal is my favorite neutral. The people at Bergdorfs apparently think this bag is black, but I reject their reality and substitute my own. Second, it’s made out of anaconda skin instead of the standard python, which simultaneously reminds me of “Baby Got Back” and that horrible Jennifer Lopez movie about anacondas that came out while I was in middle school. And, I mean, who doesn’t have positive associations with the days when your parents used to have to drop you off and pick you up so you could see a movie with eight of your closest twelve-year-old friends?

Models Love Michael by Michael Kors Hamilton

Sure models have no say in what they wear on the runway but they certainly have strong opinions about what they wear on the street. They get to try on the best fashion in the world! So what do they end up wearing? Michael Kors, of course. Patricia van der Vliet , Heidi Mount, Karlie Kloss (on the left) and Karmen Pedaru are all seen with the Hamilton and most of them chose my favorite color in this bag, orange!! The extra large size looks great on these Amazon beauties but it comes in 3 sizes to suit your stature. Usually bags with both top handles and shoulder straps look like they're having an identity crisis but worn either way, the straps enhance the chic-ness of the overall bag. It also has a fantastic price point, at Michael Kors for $398 (in extra large).

Leonard Spring 2011 - Tassels, you say? I'm in.

Veronique Leroy and Daniel Triboulliard for Leonard spring-summer 2011 ready-to wear collection has simply nailed the bohemian, flower child, free spirit look. I am totally qualified to say that. My mom went to Woodstock. But seriously, I love these bags. They are pretty enough to take out at night, but practical enough to use during the day. And tassels? Please, I'd wear them in my sleep. Fringe too? Check mate. I'm sold. Anyone who knows me would be the first to tell you that I adore a good cross body bag. Any of these would do just fine. And how adorable are these dresses? If it weren't for Christmas I would be fine with skipping winter all together to wear these fun things. But I do love winter boots.... Sigh.

YSL Roady Studded Suede Hobo

YSL's Roady Studded Suede Hobo instantly brought me back to 1987 when I was in high school and Bon Jovi ruled our world.  It was a time of fringe, studs and suede (I had a pair of boots made with all of the above, not kidding).  Good taste was not a priority (obvs), but having fun was.  It was a time of carefree rides to the beach in my convertible (sans sunblock) and hanging out on Melrose pretending to be 18.  Ahhhhh, the glory days of youth.  I miss those days at times when work and family stress me beyond reason.  But when I do, bags like this remind me that I can have fun, no matter what age. 

Paige Gamble Grey Ostrich Hobo

Understated elegance has been redefined. Utilitarian indulgent chic may sound like an oxymoron but as is evident here, it can be a harmony of perfection. This is not your typical sack-y hobo, there is a wide gusset to maintain its form. I like the combination of smooth with the dotted quill skin, instead of looking like they're cheaping out on us, it gives an organic look that is soothing to the eye - a big bag with allover dots may sound decadent but it starts to look like a big blur - here your eyes are given a break to appreciate the texture more. The bow speaks to our sweet girly side and how can you say no to that? This Dove Grey Ostrich Hobo is $2600.

Christian Louboutin Trophe Studded Nappa Bag

Oh hello, Christian, while you were out designing fabulous shoes, someone had a little DIY fun with chainsaws and stud guns in your studio.  We all love to get our crafty on at times but what ridiculous creature did you make this for?!  Granted the cost is minimal compared to some of your shoes (that's another issue I need to discuss with you, by the way) but it's no excuse for sloppiness.  Generally zippers and exaggerated pulls are made to enhance a bag but in your case, it is the bag.  I have to stop looking at this now because I have an unnatural urge to tug and pull at things until I rip them to pieces.

Radley London "Grosvenor" Tote

It is just what I expect from the Brits to have a line of prim and proper bags with a hint of jolly fun. Radley London has an incredibly line of Frugal Snob bags with quality and finish that is definitely all Snob. This is the best value I've seen in a long time. The Grosvenor tote is a classic ladylike everyday bag but the subtle details in the straps and flap is giving Mulberry a run for their money. It has the same effortless chic but with even less effort - when people use the term "quiet luxury", it's an euphemism for expensive.

Smythson Nancy Zip Bag with Snake Trim

I have the original Smythson Nancy and it has been a favorite especially with all the attention I get with the unique origami design. And now it looks like I might need to update with the latest Nancy, a top handle zip bag with delicious snake trim. There was a lot of oohing and ahhing when I was looking at this bag with some girlfriends. This picture somehow makes the proportions look off but trust me, the straps and the size is perfect perfect perfect. The length of the straps are such that it can go over the shoulder or be hand held. The craftsmanship is astounding, getting each seam to be flawless is a feat in itself and all that effort was worth it because the flawlessness really stands out. The snake trim is just icing on the cake. You would think a bag with so much detail would be heavy but it is surprisingly lightweight! I'm in LOVE!! At Smythson online and Barneys New York brick and mortar stores for $1475.

McQueen Fever

Saw these on Neiman Marcus website and just had to share!  I'm still not digging the skull with crown thing but how beautiful are the scalloped edges on the clutch?!  Such a unique finish, the red patent leather looks like enamel trimmed in gold.  I have this size clutch from McQueen and it literally fits nothing but a lip gloss and credit card so I'm dying to get the elongated version.  The red python knuckle duster would be perfect for Christmas, by the way, if Santa is paying attention.  The clutches are on special order at Neimans-- Queen Skull Box Clutch, Strass Satin Skull Clutch, & Python Knuckle Duster Clutch here

Which one do you like?

Zagliani Shoulder Bag with Bow

I fell in love with this bag as soon as I laid eyes on it during Milan Fashion Week way back in February. Now that it is available, that same irrational exuberance is back. I say that only because this is an expensive bag but definitely a worthy of a lifelong investment. Sure the bow is kind of the thing now but I don't see how an immaculate matte black python bag could ever go out of style. You will bring this out when the bow is no longer and everything and it will be all that much more exciting. Everyone will be thinking, wow why did the bow ever go away? It is simply fab! But bow aside, this bag is perfection in every detail - matte python is insane, the gunmetal chain is subdued and chic and the flap style easily fits into every lifestyle. Let me count the ways.....of how I can finagle this into my closet.

Trend Alert: Paper Baggin' It

The latest craze in handbags? No, it's not crocodile or ostrich, it's.... paper bags! While Bottega Veneta used actual paper for its woven clutch, Proenza Schouler's version is merely inspired by paper bags.  We were fascinated with Bottega's innovative use of paper in its bags when we previewed them in Milan last spring.  I mean, it's one thing to say "let's use paper to make a bag!" and another altogether to actually make it, and do it so beautifully.  The clutch is also woven in python skin and made with a gorgeous beetle clasp that turns to unlock.  BOTTEGA VENETA Intrecciato Papier and Snakeskin Clutch here for $2,250 (I'm gasping at the price of paper, too but at least it's half snakeskin?!)

Givenchy Sacca Fall 2011

We can not get enough of the Sacca bag from Givenchy.  The team at Givenchy has (smartly) rid of the single chain that it originally was designed with (slipped off my shoulder constantly-- super annoying) and kept it simple with two flat handles that will actually stay on the shoulder.  So it's not as cute without that chain but cute gets you nowhere if it doesn't work (kinda like men).  I really like the patent leather quilted version (above left), it looks so squishy and soft but has a punk charm to it.  And hello, where are you going to find a bag like this for $795?!  This is a really great buy. 

I'm not as into the studded version (above right) but I can see the appeal to the stud obsessed.  It is also surprisingly lightweight due to the nylon fabric.  Both bags are at Kirna Zabete (one of the best multi brand boutiques in the city)   

Valextra Caju Mirror Handbag

I know Valextra is not for everyone. It is not exciting but it is not meant to be. Yes yes, quiet luxury, blah blah blah. But everyone should have one bag they wear for a lifetime. One that will always be relevant and elegant. This frame is the ultimate in classic especially in this perfect neutral "Clay", I mean, if it weren't Made in Italy the Queen of England would probably use it. Or maybe she does, but I'm strictly speculating here as to her loyalties when it comes to bag designers. OK, maybe that's not a big sell, she isn't exactly the leading taste-maker of our generation (or the last, or the one before that). Anyway, my point is, here is a bag that will take you from jeans, to suit, to dress, and through countless boyfriends and careers, marriage(s), motherhood, the whole shebang. One bag! OK, not one bag like this will be your one and only, but this bag can stay with you through it all. How much is that worth? Priceless right? Well, actually it's $3430, at Barneys New York.

Burberry Studded Leather Knight Bag

Want to travel like a badass? Who wouldn't? Well I have just the bag to make sure people know not to charge you too much for a cab or, god forbid, mistake you for a tourist. I give you- the Knight bag. Burberry's black leather travel bag with stud detail is your ticket to expert luxury traveling. The size of it speaks volumes about your badass-ery and the studs show that you travel "like a boss."

But in all seriousness, this bag is intimidating. I feel like Rihanna should carry this while wearing her black tutu and a t-shirt because she just doesn't give a hoot. This bag could get you bumped up to first class because of it's show stopping outside shell. In contrast, it could cause delays at security, because it could be seen as a weapon - which really just doubles the value of it, because now it is a self defense mechanism. Two for the price of one!

Mulberry Bayswater Python Bag

"I love goooooold." Ah yes. Quoting the always classy Johann van der Smut from "Austin Powers in Goldmember."  That has pretty much been what I have been saying every single time I look at this bag, which might I add is every five seconds. 
Mulberry literally read my mind when they made the Bayswater bag for this season in metallic gold python.  Making a gold bag classy can be particularly difficult.  I mean, remember the Louis Vuitton Miroir Alma GM circa 2006 Kim Kardashian was spotted carrying when she was just BFF's with Paris Hilton?  Yeah, yikes is right.
Clearly Mulberry does a much better job at classy than Vuitton does, so I am not surprised.  Though I wouldn't recommend wearing this bag with a sequin dress on New Year's Eve, I would think this bag would be a great statement piece to wear with neutrals.  Or you might just have to wear the bag and only the bag if you buy it.  At $4,000, it isn't exactly the top of my Holiday Wish List.  Well, it is, but everyone just laughs at me.

Donna Karan 'Metro' Satchel

If I gave out awards for most improved bag designs, I'd hand a giant one to Donna Karan (not a bad idea, I could throw a party each year with lots of bubbly, invite all my favorite bag designers and give them awards for tempting my wallet. Who's in?).  Best part about the simple chic design is that it's great for men or women (thus the "Metro" name?!).  Sure it's not the most exciting bag in the world but there is a lot to be said for the subtle details-- like polished black hardware that glisten just so and pleated edges that offer structure to this softly shaped bag.  Great for the office you say?  I say great for everything. 

Tory Burch Foundation Collection

The Tory Burch Foundation provides economic opportunities to women and their families in the United States. The foundation provides financing to micro-entrepreneurs who are trying desperately to get out of poverty by creating a sustainable business to support their families. Most of these women are working mothers, and I can understand as a working mother how difficult the endeavor is even with financial security, that is why we must and should, wholeheartedly support the Tory Burch Foundation.

All you have to do to support this cause is shop from the . You already love her great fun designs, so why not do it with a purpose? Her special sunflower design for this collection is sentimental - her father gave her a pendent with this design on it and it represents the inter-generational support and love that are emblematic of Tory's mission through her Foundation's work.

Dareen Hakim Le Beiruti

Whatever your thoughts are on this bag, one thing you must admit - you've never seen anything like it!! I thought the Le Icon Arabesque was bold with the giant plaque but she pleasantly surprised me with even more originality and creativity in the Le Beiruti with the oversized asymmetic hammered metal plate on a simple square clutch. This is a cocktail number like no other, your unique style will be the talk of the party. It has easily go with most looks, but it's not like anyone will notice anything else but the clutch. Comes in 6 color ways, white, gold or black clutch with Caviar Gold, Champagne Gold or Ice Silver plate. The prices are so phenomenal you can go ahead and get a couple of choices. GREAT holiday gift item!! At Dareen Hakim for $210.

Roger Vivier White Cord Pilgrim Clutch

Want to make a statement? Bruno Frisoni knows how. Check out how he took Roger Vivier's classic rhinestone buckle pilgrim clutch and refashioned it out of white cord. Yes, white cord. The pricey clutch is from the label's new, and limited edition, Rendez-Vous collection that's aimed at presenting not only Vivier's craftsmanship, but a more contemporary direction to boot. While I think this design is both fun and fashion-forward, I simply cannot justify its high four-figure price tag. While it may not be easy to assemble the cords in a perfect cold, do we forget that this bag has no exotic skin on it? At more than $8,000 (when you factor in tax), I expect at least crocodile trim, if not lining. Do you agree Bag Snobs? Thank goodness I don't ever have a need to carry clutches; I'm happy to admire this exquisite piece from afar.

Alexander McQueen Hell's Knuckle Duster Box Clutch

I logged on to Net-a-porter to check out the week's new deliveries to report to you and saw that I had an item in the shopping cart. I could not remember what it was so I clicked and saw my dream clutch... waiting for me. I've been obsessing over this Hell's Knuckle Duster Box Clutch for weeks and finally put it in my cart last Friday thinking it will get it out of my system, I then closed the page quickly so I wouldn't actually click and buy it (we are on a major bag diet over here).  But there it was this morning, damn Net-a-porter.com for letting items sit in your shopping cart for DAYS!  It's an unusual clutch from Alexander McQueen with the feather knuckle duster and the embossed leather has a mysterious quality to it.  Hell's angel has never looked so chic.  But for now, I'll put it on my (growing) Christmas list.

for $2,325

Victoria Beckham Totes Her Namesake Bags

I'm rooting for Victoria Beckham's new leathergoods collection to succeed. There's something campy yet exquisitely chic about the six pieces she unveiled back in September that are due out next month. Seeing them on the runway is one thing; in real life, as witnessed at LAX not too long ago, they are C-H-I-C. It really is the best of Valextra and Hermès rolled in one. Posh is pictured here carrying the "No. 4" travel bag and "No. 2" clutch purse, both in the fossil color. While the pieces aren't going to come cheap (exact prices have not yet been set), I do think they look more expensive than what they'll command. The practical and large travel bag was designed with her husband, David, in mind--but I think it works equally as well for ladies. Perhaps what I love most? As I said before, there's not a single VB logo in sight. Anywhere.

Mulberry Lizzie Leather Clutch

You have to see this clutch on an outfit to fully appreciate how amazing it is. It is on the bigger side which adds to its edgy cool. Studs are on the outs but these aren't the trendy pyramid studs, they're the standard studs that many bags had before studs were on everything. And it's definitely not the main focus. The main focus is the buckle that straps the bag into a slight scrunch. But do not fear, the buckle is not the way in - there is a concealed fastening for headache free in and out. This clutch will funk up any outfit in a flash and make you feel like you've got it all going on. Which you will have if you know enough to get this bag

Proenza Schouler Columbian Mochilla PS1

It takes special talent to f up the super cool PS1. Everything is wrong about this, from the spelling of Colombia, to the fact that mochilla is actually a backpack, but most of all it is just plain wrong. Not even my deep connection to Colombia is a strong enough bias to edge me to the "it's ok" category (my husband is half and therefore my children are part Colombian). I love all the Colombian art and artifacts my mother-in-law gives me. But this just doesn't work. I would love to see variations on this great bag but one that makes sense. The PS1 is a structured city chic bag, not a bohemian berry picking rucksack. Green and black is not the most sophisticated color combination, I feel like money should go to a charity that empowers local artisans for buying this. At Barneys New York for $1825.

Prada Inititals Tote

Finally, a Prada bag concept that's both practical AND cute. Check out Renée Zellweger and Kate Winslet sporting their Prada messenger style tote bags, fashioned from the classic tessuto and saffiano fabric and personalized with their initials. While a bag with monogrammed initials can definitely go the route of cheesy, there's something innately stylish about this one. Not only is the tote bag, with its long strap and double handles, extremely practical for everyday use, but the letters, available in a wide variety of colors and designs, are utterly adorable for all ages.

Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson Staple Flap Cross Body Bag

We all need a bit of trendy fun in our lives and we like to do it with Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson.  This season, it's the Staple Flap cross body bag.  Are those really staples done in chevron pattern?  Why yes, and in mixed metals it looks way more chic than regular old beads!  I don't like all the chains and tassels dangling on it but luckily they are removable.  Great bag for our younger snobs and for those of us who still act/look/feel young. 

Carlos Falchi -Feed me please.

Slouchy design, whisky or olive ombre python in color with whipstitch detail and an asymmetric flap top describes the Carlos Falchi Diagonal Ombre Feed Bag.

This is truly a wear-anywhere bag that could easily be worn to the office and beyond. There's something about the flap top that I love. It ties into the whole slouchy appearence to give it an even more laid back feel.

To the untrained eye you may think it looks like your average Hobo, but it's much more posh than that. It is a Feed bag. Given its name because of it's slightly longer shape, of well, a horse's feed bag. Clever Carlos, Clever.

Carlos Falchi's collections are usually rich in skins and amazing textured bags and this one is no different. But for all the California dreamers out there I have bad news... the
Python is not available in your state. Ah, well. You still have sunshine and Pinks hotdogs, so life isn't so bad.

Check it out at Bergdof Goodman for $2,195.00

Foley + Corinna Mongolian Lamb Small Square Bag

Corinna bag is fabulous, yet functional. With a Mongolian lambswool panel in front and a tassel pull combined with a short handle as well as a longer crossbody strap, this bag gives you versatility and fun. That is of course, if lambswool is your thing.

This bag is more laid back than night-on-the-town chic, but I still love it. It's large enough for your day needs but isn't too big so to look strange carrying it as a handbag. However, it could possibly be mistaken for a small dog. Seriously.

Lambswool for fall/winter is a win for me. Soft, eye-catching, cozy and fun, the panel on front seals the deal. I love the off-white color as well. Combine this bag with some tall boots and a leather jacket and voila! It's winter. Instantly making me want to cuddle up with my Mongolian Lambswool lover and cup of hot cocoa.

Stella McCartney Embossed Faux-Leather Saddle Bag

This is an easy chic bag like the PS1, throw it on with everything and you'll be loving the convenience while looking absolutely fab. But you will also love that it's super lightweight. The two flaps are ingenious, you're able to access your bag without having to open the whole thing, the bag is shallow enough to find what you need with just one side up. The straps come off so you can use this as a clutch but don't, this definitely should stay a shoulder bag. The shiny green patent leather strap is an amazing contrast against the textured faux leather.

Jerome Dreyfuss Henri Bag

I am usually an advocate for the smaller bag designers, I mean Gucci can take it if we rip on one of their bags but the upstart bag designers struggle to make their place in the bag world and we like to support them.  However, there are times that I must (politely) point out the obvious and give constructive criticism.  This is such a time.  Jerome Dreyfuss as a whole show promise but this mish mash of materials is lost on me.  I like the shape and the crocodile strap is even interesting but dalmation print ponyhair, ostrich, AND gold python?!  Add the chain, exposed zipper trim and contrasting colors and you have too much for one bag to handle.  I would have liked to see this made entirely of one skin with a single contrast crocodile strap.  What about you?  Are you into this buffet? 
for $1,195

Kara Ross Gemma B

Last night the stars were out in honor of Tinsel Town’s leading ladies, at Elle’s 17th Annual ‘Women in Hollywood’ Tribute at The Four Seasons Hotel.

Pictured above is beauty Kate Hudson (wearing Prabal Gurung) with beau, Muse frontman Matt Bellamy. And do you see that pretty little silver purse sitting on the table? For the event, she carried her Kara Ross NY Gemma B in Silver Foil Python with Hematite.

Chanel Quilted Bubble Bag

Blake Lively was spotted outside a photo shoot in New York’s East Side neighborhood last Friday. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the lovely actress was wearing a “Key to the Cure” T-shirt. The Saks Fifth Avenue exclusive was designed by Donna Karen and 100% of the proceeds are to benefit women cancer charities. She paired this feminine T-shirt with a boyfriend cardigan. Cute! But what really caught my attention, of course, was the gorgeous handbag dangling from her arm. It’s her Chanel Bubble Quilt Accordion Flap Bag!

This isn’t, however, the first time Blake has been seen carrying this bag. In fact, she has been seen carrying it many times over the past couple of years. It must be one of her favorites! But who could blame her? The Chanel Bubble Quilt Accordion Flap bag is absolutely gorgeous! The puffy quilting looks so squishy and scrumptious, just begging to be squeezed! I love the gathered sides and flap closure, they give this bag a look that is both classic and modern. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Chanel bag without the beautiful chain straps! Unfortunately, this unique collection has long been discontinued. But it isn’t too late to score a pre-loved piece!

Miu Miu in Venice

Miu Miu just added a new flagship store located on Venice’s Salizada San Moise, Italy.

Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi (who recently also designed the Miu Miu Singapore boutique and Prada Las Vegas Boutique), the single floor boutique houses ready-to-wear, bags, footwear and accessories.

From the entrance one proceeds to the area dedicate to leathergoods in which are large shelves upholstered in damask make for a dynamic product display. Following, is the area that houses footwear; a small lounge lit by a large skylight preserved from the original structure. Finally, one reaches the ready-to-wear area in which the wood, stucco and plaster ceilings and furnishings have all been preserved and restored. the large window has been fitted with leaded glass bathing the space in natural light.