Rebecca Minkoff Affair

Rebecca Minkoff is one of my favorite handbag designers. She may not be an Italian or French designer but her handbags are just as good if not better. My favorite handbag by Rebecca Minkoff is the Morning After Bag. It’s big, spacious, can hold all my junk and to top it off it’s pretty stylish. It comes in a variety of colors and I’d say it’s on its way up there to becoming an iconic bag in the fashion world.

A new handbag by Rebecca Minkoff that I’m absolutely loving is “The Affair” and it’s right behind the MAB coming in at a close second. What caught my eye about it, is that it reminded me of a Chanel bag. Chanel bags are very pricey so to see a bag that can be compared to one at a way more affordable price is amazing! It definitely has that classy Chanel look to it, which I love.

I’m in love with the circular quilting on the bag. I don’t think I’ve ever seen circular quilting before but I like it a lot! It goes very well with the studs and chainlink shoulder strap. Such a great sophisticated bag to add to a collection, especially if you’ve always wanted a Chanel!

You can purchase the Rebecca Minkoff “The Affair” at Bloomingdales for $325.

Shop the Rebecca Minkoff Boutique at Bloomingdales / also available at Rebecca Minkoff

LeSportsac EveryGirl Tote

I can admit, I’m definitely someone that hates getting older. I’m at the point where I don’t even celebrate my birthday anymore because just saying I’m a year older kills me. I don’t know why but it does. I’ve always believed in the saying you’re only as old as you feel but for some reason I can’t make that sink into my head.

As I get older, it’s sometimes fun to reminisce about the past or things I loved as a girl with my friends. The LeSportsac Deluxe “EveryGirl” Tote was kind of a reminiscent of my childhood. My friends and I took dance lessons, loved makeup, thought we were in love with boys and loved just being girlie when we were younger. This bag pretty much displays everything we were.

I’m not sure if I would ever buy this bag, but it definitely is cute. The colors and all the pictures on the bag are adorable. I could totally see a younger girl loving this bag but in reality not many parents would buy a child a bag that costs $98 unless they were insanely rich.

If I were to buy this bag I would probably use it as a travel bag/carry on bag. Seems big enough to put all your essentials in and carry it on the plane with you. I still to this day don’t have a lap top bag. Makes it easy for me to use it as an over-sized purse and carry all my travel necessities in it.

For the price, I’d consider it a cute bag that would be great for traveling.

Ben Minkoff

Ben is here, just in time for Valentine’s Day!

by Rebecca Minkoff is a new line (Spring 2011) named and inspired by Rebecca’s grandfather who was a World War II fighter pilot.

Rebecca Minkoff is also offering a little incentive package if you get your order in by February 9th. Enjoy complimentary free shipping and guaranteed delivery by Valentine’s day, the 14th. But wait, there’s more! You’ll also receive a free gift with purchase when you buy something from the collection, a free Rebecca Minkoff neon bracelet for you!

Rick Owens Buffalo Shopper Tote

An American living in Paris, Rick Owens designs are described as “glamour meets grunge”. They are a favorite of Madonna, Kate Moss and Helena Bonham Carter. His designs have edge, luxury and simplicity that are powerful and sexy all at once.

You get all of these details rolled into this deceptively simple tote. Rich heavy buffalo hide provides luxurious texture to the overall body of this bag. The detail of the stitching around the internal zippered pocket shows through on one side of the bag presenting an interesting and subtle design. The handles are smooth leather with no hardware. Subtle oval and square stitched detailing at the base of the handle provide another subtle and and edgy design element.

A roomy tote, it measures 21″ wide by 13.5″ tall and 6″ depth. A 9″ strap drop allows this to be carried on the shoulder. There is definitely more detail to this bag than you see at first glance! It takes skill and great craftsmanship to produce a bag of this quality and simplicity. At $1096.50, this is not a cheap tote, but it will definitely be yours for years and years for edgy, glamorous style!

Find this bag here at Luisaviaroma!
Shop the Rick Owens Boutique at Net-A-Porter

Man Bag Monday: Salvatore Ferragamo Ostrich Messenger Bag

Majority of visitors to both PurseBlog and PurseForum are female. That doesn’t mean we do not have a great number of males who are fashion obsessed visiting our sites as well, and for that, I apologize for the lack of man bags featured here. That is why every Monday we will feature a different man bag, dubbing it Man Bag Monday.

Kicking off Man Bag Monday, I had to turn to Salvatore Ferragamo. The brand is brilliant for both its female and male oriented lines. The design aesthetic is purist and luxurious with every attention to detail and craftsmanship taken into account.

Right now I can’t stop loving the Salvatore Ferragamo Ostrich Messenger Bag. In fact, this is an ideal fashion forward man bag. The messenger style is laid back and casual but the exotic ostrich skin in the perfect tan hue amps up the style into a new realm of casual-cool. Of course this bag is not for every man. But for the right man, it will look nothing but amazing and will end up with me feeling man bag envy. Buy via Salvatore Ferragamo.

Gerard Darel Shopping Bags for Spring

You know what I hate about Gerard Darel? The difficulty in finding its bags online for purchase and having to track them down in select stores. Otherwise, I am a massive Gerard Darel fan. And many of our readers and PurseForum members are as well. I own the Midday Midnight Hobo and I can do nothing other than sing praises of the bag. The leather is thick and smooshy, the design characteristics are both simple yet chic, and the overall appeal is evident. We all need more Gerard Darel in our lives – so please listen to us online retailers, carry the brand!!

While I am not drawn to shopping bags typically, I will make an exception for the Gerard Darel Leather Shopping Bag in cobra print. There are four vivacious colors to choose from (purple, yellow, green, orange). A flat large shoulder bag is not always as usable as other designs, but it comes in handy. The long body leaves room for plenty of items, but the bag is never intended to be filled up until it appears overly bulky. I just adore the color options and can envision this bag being the perfect outfit-finishing-accessory come Spring. The bags retail for $599.00 at Bloomingdale’s

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York Kicks Off

It is on this day, February 10th 2011, that Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York officially opens its portals to lure us all in with a plethora of beautiful garments, stunning accessories, flashy celebs, and elaborate shows. PurseBlog is here to cover the shows, show you the people, share looks seen in and around Lincoln Center, and of course, the bags.

For now, I will leave you with a few first impressions from earlier in the day.

Man Snob: Ben Minkoff Bags for Men

Finally, a bag worthy for the man snob in your life!  Does the name sound familiar?  It should, it's named after designer Rebecca Minkoff's grandfather-- Ben, who was a World War II fighter pilot.  This rugged collection is inspired by the iconic military heritage of Ben Minkoff, yet still follows the elements of Rebecca's uber popular namesake bag line.  I can not tell you how often my guy friends complain about the lack of stylish, functional (and masculine!) man bags.  The Gregger tote (above) is just the thing a man snob needs for work or play-- structured with a soft edge, the elongated tote will hold files, MacBook and gym clothes if necessary.  Love the well thought out front pocket-- subtle details like the curved flap and straps add character as well as functionality.  I hate sounding so crude but a bag like this could potentially land a man lots of hot dates-- girls will love that you have good taste in bags and will flock to you, trust me on this!

Seriously, what more can a man ask for in a bag?  Check out Ben Minkoff Gregger Tote ($495) here

Elie Tahari x Emmy Rossum "Emmy" Bucket Bag

Considering their friendship, it's no surprise that Elie Tahari and Emmy Rossum have decided to collaborate on a handbag. Dubbed the "Emmy" after the "Shameless" star, the leather bucket bag features a cotton canvas interior and comes in four sizes in tan, black, mushroom, yellow, metallic and white. It's a decidedly user-friendly and chic everyday bag that easily complements any professional woman on-the-go. While the exterior, with its subtle textured leather façade, is minimal and sophisticated, the interior is neatly organized with plenty of pockets for the tech-savvy woman. For the woman who isn't looking for--or can afford--a four-figure tote from other European designer labels, this is an excellent option. On top of it all, a portion of all proceeds will benefit the charity Safe Horizon charity.

$398 to $798, available at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Alexander McQueen Knuckle-Duster Studded Suede Box Clutch

Another tempting knuckle duster clutch from McQueen-- this time in the form of buttery suede and shimmering gold studs. Pale cream suede is not the most practical of skins but hopefully the tiny studs will help keep the stains at bay (you always have the option of dying the bag dark brown or black if it gets really bad as suede is easy to dye-- I'm always thinking ahead!).  But the best part of the clutch are the two giant cocktail rings flanked by McQueen's iconic skulls-- think of it as jewelry

Givenchy Leopard Chain Shoulder Bag / Clutch

In case you were not tired of animal prints yet, this Givenchy will steal your heart and wallet. It's simple, yes, but you cannot have too much going on when you got leopard spots. It's for those who want to be bold on the inside but is too shy to show it, or the opposite, those who are way too bold but want to show some restraint. This plays either way! That is the real sign of a well designed bag. Take the chain off for a classic clutch that will force all your other clutches into retirement. Comes with an inset mirror for discreet primping. At Kirna Zabete for $1190.

Km Rii Black Cocoon Torpedo Shoulder Bag

You know those days when you wake up having a Taylor Momsen day, and you're feeling dangerous and edgy and want to take on the world, or at least the subway so you throw on a pair of leather, buckle-y motorcycle boots, perhaps a little too much eye makeup for daytime, pop a Red Bull open and give your roommate the finger as you walk out the door? No? Just me? Well this is the bag for the day you feel like letting your bad girl out (even if it is just to go pick up some eggs around the corner).

This bag is your go to-rebel without a cause-bag because of its textured patchwork leather, stud detail and overall "cocoon" shape (hence the name). It's tall, dark and handsome and would add edge to any outfit, with or without the scary eyeliner and attitude.

Frugal Snob: Simply Vera by Vera Wang

I love what Vera Wang is doing with the Simply Vera line at Kohl's-- it's an opportunity for many bag snobs on a budget to own designer bags without resorting to knock offs.  The pleated cross body bag (10.75" x 5.5") is one of the best I've seen at this price point and I have looked everywhere!  It is available in a variety of yummy colors (blue for me please) in a cool crinkly material and the chain is easily tucked in if you'd like to use it as a clutch.  I've bought Simply Vera bags in the past and the quality is not bad-- it's not the finest leathers but it also doesn't cost an arm or a leg.

Was $59 now $35.40 at Khols.com here.

Donna Karan "New York" Bag

New York City is my favorite place in the entire world, which should come as no shock to anyone that knows me. When it comes to New York fashion, one of the first names that comes to mind is Donna Karan. This also shouldn't be a big shock. New York is ingrained in Donna and Donna is ingrained in New York. With classic lines and a strong presence, this python bag screams, "New York." Well, it doesn't literally talk, but go with me on this. Donna Karan recently introduced the New York bag. With wood handles and a python body, this bag lives up to its name. It will stand out in your closet and look even better while you're strolling the streets of New York City. Don't live in the Big Apple? Fear not my fellow Snobs. I promise you're allowed to be chic outside of the City. Donna doesn't discriminate.

for $3,900

Chloë Sevigny for Opening Ceremony Half Moon Bag With Lace

The one good thing I have to say about this bag is that Chloe Sevigny stuck to her guns when it came to design integrity. This is exactly what I think would be her dream bag, a lace trimmed, mesh bag with rope strap - it's her signature country kitsch look. It's a rare talent to be able to completely translate a very specific style to a bag. This is her exact style and would perfectly coordinate with her prairie dress and cowboy boots. Bravo Chloe Sevigny for bringing your true vision to fruition and shame on Opening Ceremony for allowing it. By the way, it is 100% polyester. At Brown's Fashion for $190.75.

Derek Lam Shoulder Bag: Calling all Charlottes

This is one for the prepster in all of us. The Derek Lam shoulder bag in bright red is pure snob. The chain-link and leather strap is adorable, the calf leather is rich and soft and the little fringe tassel is the cherry on top of this delicious bag. It's simple in its design, but makes a firm statement with the eye-catching color that will stand out in a neutral world.

This is a chic, timeless piece that would add class to any outfit. This makes me think of lunches at The Plaza, followed by a hop across the street to Bergdorf's, then a day of museums and more shopping for glamorous lamps and maybe even hats. Charlotte York would be all over this red-hot number, and you can be to. Head over to Barneys and pick it up for a measly (wink) $1090.

Louis Vuitton Men's Fall 2011

It's all about a man bag at Louis Vuitton for fall! Gentlemen, can you dig it? Widely accepted in Europe and Asia for decades, it's a virtually nonexistent look amongst straight men in the U.S. While I won't be holding my breath to see this look take off, I must say the bags are beautifully made and are very masculine and discreet (nary a single logo in sight). The 100% vachetta leather man clutch is particularly stunning. Moving on, there's the new Damier Infini line of soft calfskin bags that are gorgeous! I love the tangerine color--I only hope that they actually make it to be sold! The third major component of the fall line was a group of vintage-inspired waxed leather bags that feature "cracks" to mimic as if you've had it for generations. They're masculine, discreet and terribly chic. I'm saving up my pennies already. These are some must-have bags.

Proenza Schouler Large Leather PS1 Keep All

I love love love the PS1 but it never worked into my life. But this Keep All version definitely will. It seemed just like yesterday that I declared that I'll be switching to only shoulder and other hands free bags but that was before I realized I was wrong. Hands free are wonderful but an amazing bag is still pure bliss no matter how many limbs are required to handle it. Everyone who has ever designed a bag has done the flap closure but nothing this ingenious - the cut-out flap goes over the envelope pocket like puzzle pieces. Proenza Schouler is THE it bag designer of the moment. They are giving us original bags with pure design - no gimmicks, embellishment or use of unique fabrications. I don't have to tell you how much I love the midnight color, it is the greatest neutral that shows off all the details beautifully. At Barneys New York for $1350.

Elaine Turner April Paneled Tote: Girls Gone Woven

Going somewhere this spring hmmm? Escaping this ridiculous snow and cold for some coconut oil and palm trees? Well grab the Elaine Turner April paneled tote, and head to Margaretville.

This woven leather handy-dandy tote with metallic gold leather trim is perfect for all your beach needs. It has two side pockets for your SPF and drink of choice, and the main compartment is nice and roomy for your magazine, book, or binoculars for those of you who like to people stalk watch on the beach. When you're finished with your beach day, simple snap the April tote closed and scurry away to your hotel. This bag is handy, but not heavy, cute, and not clunky and would be the perfect spring break companion.

Pick it up at Neiman Marcus for $350

Lanvin Grosgrain Flower Tote: Summer Lovin'

I want to grab this bag and walk through a sprawling garden of roses while wearing a big giant sun hat and walking my dog Beans. This tote is whimsical and just right for a summer getaway.

The tiered grosgrain ribbon with brass hardware is a perfect seasonal look. The snake-embossed leather straps are a sexy touch and the little silk flower kisses the bag as if to say "I'm here for the party, but only if there's champagne." I would love to grab this tote and hop on a train to a little beach house for a weekend. It has plenty of room for your goodies, but still looks like a chic bag, not a piece of luggage.

$1,790

Bottega Veneta Palm Beach Collection

A bit unexpected, but nevertheless chic, Bottega Veneta creative director Tomas Maier has unveiled a limited edition collection of three pieces designed specifically to celebrate the city of Palm Beach's 100th anniversary. Maier, a part-time resident of South Florida, clearly is enamored by what he calls his "adopted home." "Palm Beach is a unique community," says Maier, "with a remarkable spirit of invention. I moved to Florida from Paris in 1999 and instantly fell in love with the beauty of the city."

The Palm Beach capsule collection consists of five items, all in a simply gorgeous brilliant Empire blue. The handbag, of which only 20 were made and is based on a style that debuted at the Spring 2011 show, epitomizes the lively and relaxed chic that characterizes Palm Beach style. Completely fringed by hand, the bag is made from bonded panels of hand-woven intrecciato nappa leather and slightly larger panels of canvas. The completed panels are then washed to create a soft, relaxed effect. I would love this bag for everyday use--or for weekends at the beach. The utilitarian handles are
adjustable and a removable canvas pouch features an individually-numbered sterling silver plate. As for the rest of the collection? Customized half-body frames with burnished metal trim and black lenses and slim temples made of translucent acetate. The frames are finished with Bottega's signature metal studs, small photoengraved butterflies and the words "Palm Beach 100" laser-etched inside the left temple. A zipper-pull wallet made of antique lizard, a shellshaped keychain of the same material, and a lush beach towel complete the resort-ready set.

Tote ($2,750), Sunglasses ($475) & towel ($590), available at Bottega Veneta Palm Beach

Valentino Pre-Fall 2011

There was a little bit of something for everyone at Valentino's pre-fall open house. The bags go from downright practical to over-the-top HOT. I was immediately drawn to a medium-sized crocodile bag that had both the double chain strap to wear across the body but also a nifty side piece that bore the house's trademark studs. The bag can be worn as a clutch by sliding your hand into the grip. It looks very chic! For those whose budget don't dictate croc, this style also comes in leather, python and other fabrications. As part of the Rock Stud expansion, there are now totes of every shape and size available for whatever suits your mood. The all-leather pewter tote with double handheld straps and one long shoulder strap serves a fabulous purpose for both work and weekend while a rubbery waterproof tote, also trimmed with the studs, is fun and practical for when the weather is less than ideal.

Alexander Wang Lia Sling studded leather messenger bag

I've heard all the complaints about Alexander Wang's Rocco bag (too heavy, leather quality not up to snuff etc etc) and agree with most after seeing it for myself but that does not keep me from craving the Lia sling studded messenger bag!  Throw your common sense out the window for a brief moment and just revel in the beauty of this egg shell leather bag.  Done?  Ok, before you start worrying about the leather getting dirty just think of it this way-- next season you can dye it chocolate brown.  And this bag is not without its functions, there is a secret pouch pocket under the fold over flap with magnetic closure for easy access when you need to tweet, FB or actually talking on your cell (real phone conversations are becoming a lost art).  This creamy confection is $780 at Net-a-Porter.com!

Fendi Colorblock Leather Messenger Bag

I do not own a single Fendi bag. I went to a Fendi party over the holidays and was embarrassed (for them!) that I could not wear a single Fendi thing because there has not been a bag since the Spy worth buying. And now, just this season alone there are 2 bags that I'm dying over. First the Silvana which I didn't buy because the exotic version is what I love but couldn't blow my entire wardrobe budget on but this I can justify. The messenger, if you haven't gotten the memo, is my new favorite thing. The bold red with contrasting neutral back and dark strap is simple, even the closure is minimalistic with just a bit of stitching detail. It says so much without having to say much. And isn't that always the best? At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1680.

Jessica Szohr is Milano Chic

Dallas twinkled brightly when Hollywood's biggest stars jetted into town for Superbowl celebrations (I was the biggest dork running around at parties and the Superbowl getting photos for my album!).  One of my personal faves, Jessica Szohr, showed up at the GQ Lacoste party looking Milano chic in her Bottega clutch and Dolce & Gabbana outfit finished off with Sergio Rossi shoes.  The gorgeous soft and unstructured Bottega clutch made of karung (fancy word for lizards) is the best size and holds everything you possibly need!  I love that she mixed her reptiles and wore snakeskin shoes in a contrasting shade to liven up the elegant black lace outfit. 

Jas MB Louis Shoulder Bag: Crossbody Casual

For those of you looking to get in on the crossbody craze, but don't want to fork over $800 plus do to so, check out this little guy. The Jas MB Louis canvas shoulder bag with a leather flap front is casual yet polished, and is something you could get a lot of wear out of.

This is the perfect bag to grab on a Saturday when you are running your errands and want to just throw your wallet and some lip gloss in your bag and have your hands free for children, pets or an ice cream cone. This bag is light weight, big enough for essentials, and easy to pull off. As a crossbody addict myself, this one is an easy sell for me.

Barneys for $265

Madewell-The Scholar Satchel

Just because you're a Frugal Snob doesn't mean you need a blah bag. Enter Madewell's Scholar Satchel. The words "messenger bag" tend to make me gag, but this satchel is a chic messenger bag. Yes, there is such a thing. I would consider going back to school if one was required to be a "scholar" to actually carry this. Which says a lot, because I hated school. But the good news is, you don't even have to be a scholar to carry it. Shocking, I know. The canvas bag comes in black and green and natural and canvas. Though the double straps give this bag a slight PS1 look, this is definitely not a copy. The Scholar Satchel would be a great addition to any Frugal Snob's closet, Frugal Scholar or not.

Madewell The Scholar Satchel for $138

Jennifer Aniston in Custom Burberry Alligator Clutch

Aside from her trusty Bottega Veneta tote, Jennifer Aniston is not much of a Bag Snob. She rarely, if ever, sports over-the-top accessories, preferring to keep her look sleek and minimal. But at last night's "Just Go With It" premiere, the movie's star turned out on the red carpet not only in a Dolce & Gabbana floorlength gown that ventured on sheer, but a oh-so-decadent custom grey alligator Burberry clutch to boot. At first glance, it's a rather simplistic design: rectangular in shape, simple flapover closure (I suppose the fact that it's alligator and a custom-made piece will just have to suffice). While I like the clutch wholeheartedly, I couldn't help but think it was a bit too long for her frame--and the gown. I love the grey and black color combo, but the bag just looks a bit misproportioned for the occasion.

3.1 Phillip Lim Seymour Zipper Leather Tote

I know this kinda sorta looks like Anya Hindmarch but the details make it so much edgier. That little pocket is so cute but the distressed hardware is what gives the bag that slight edge. A tall tote is great for laptops and magazines but you can't find the small things, so that pocket is essential to making this bag usable (there are also 2 interior pockets). The zippers are mostly for aesthetics rather than function but it breaks up the mass of the bag so it isn't one big blah. I love the way the straps go partial way down and how all the elements are staggered in perfect proportion from each other. I'm way over analyzing but your eyes are trained to find balance and when looking at this bag, they are happy! At Saks Fifth Avenue for $725.

Botkier Isla Shoulder Bag

Unique New York, New York's unique, I like unique New York. Now that our mouth muscles are warmed up, we can discuss this unique New York bag. A downtown bag with an uptown feel, this needs to be in my possession immediately. The wrinkled leather is so soft yet the bag has great structure. The envelope shape opens to a good sized bag with plenty of compartments. The shoulder strap is long enough to wear across the body for hands-free anything: dancing, shopping, eating, or all of above, at the same time. The bag is different than most Botkier bags I have seen, yet Monica still gives us the subtle details that make her bags unique. The tan leather has a slight metallic sheen to it. Snag yours now, and pick me up one, too while you're at it.

for $395

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York: Christian Siriano Fall 2011

Don’t get me wrong – like any member of the fashion industry, I love black and own a great deal of it. But when I think of Project Runway favorite Christian Siriano, somber darkness isn’t necessarily what comes to mind or what I expected to see in his Fall 2011 collection. But more than anything, black is what I found.

Siriano’s signature ruffles and frills were still there, but in a somewhat more somber aesthetic mixed with some sharp tailoring and and a few splashes of mauve and olive toward the middle and end of the presentation. The drama and overabundance of some of Siriano’s previous collections had been noticeably tempered, perhaps with more of an eye toward retail sales. Several gorgeously detailed pieces remained, though, and I’m sure they’d be a marvel up close. Even when cloaked in black, Siriano doesn’t lose his eye for exquisite details.

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