ONE by I Love Binetti Amaca Bag

Part of ShopBop’s One by collection, I Love Binetti is known for its innovative and thought-provoking designs. The collection is made up of standout pieces that were handpicked because they represent the top of their categories (clothing, handbags, shoes, etc). ShopBop says you should expect to see a broad selection of unique products from established and rising talents alike. Well I can certainly say that this I Love Binetti Amaca Bag is unique, so I suppose it is no surprise that ShopBop decided to feature it in their One by collection.

What do I think of the I Love Binetti Amaca Bag? When I first laid eyes on it, the first thing that popped into my mind was my grandma’s macrame. In particular, I thought of the plant hangers that she liked to make. You know, the kind that form a sling to hang a pot from a hook in the ceiling. But once I got past all that, I started to see a bag that was quirky in a fun, boho-chic sort of way. It would actually make a great, casual bag for summer! You could even use it as a beach bag! Plus this bag is reasonably priced, so you won’t feel terribly guilty if you get sick of it by the end of the season.

Alexander Wang Doodle Backpack

Hold the name brand calling for a second and give this piece one more glimpse. Surprisingly, this bag doesn’t belong to a juvenile centered handbag mogul; it’s actually presented by the creations of American fashion designer Alexander Wang. This is definitely not your typical Wang, if you ask me. The Wang I admire brings out the best hardware and structures an edgy piece can present, not so much ecstatic vibe and color. We don’t dislike the Walker Doodle Print Backpack; it’s just a very different interpretation of what Alexander Wang is about. As every well known name out there has fulfilled, a funky and loud piece is a must have in every designers collection.

Wang’s doodle print features the familiar bucket shaped accessory in backpack form. This hands free canvas piece highlights scribbles and paint markings throughout every cubic centimeter of this drawstring. The only areas free of ink are the white leather trims that aid in giving the backpack a principal color to identify it by. It’s Springy and a true original that won’t be floating around everywhere you go. But the $450 price tag isn’t too convincing, especially for something that isn’t as glamorous as it should be.

Malene Birger Meiko Safari Tote

I’m not too fond of the outdoors and I’ve never been camping. I would never go on a safari but I do have an obsession with most wild animals. The way they just roam around free in Africa is kind of fascinating. Very different than what you would see in the zoo. Ever since I was little I’ve loved lions and zebras. My astrological sign is a leo, so of course I would love lions, and I always thought zebras were beautiful. They were like the prettier or more exotic version of the modern day horse. To this day I would love to have a zebra roam around in my backyard. Would be kind of amazing to wake up too, especially since it’s perfectly legal to have one.

When I saw the “Meiko Safari” Tote By Malene Birger I squealed!

It’s cute, spacious, simple and has zebras on it! It’s not everyday you see a zebra featured on a tote so this is pretty amazing to see. It would be even cooler if the tote was in white with the zebra outlined in black but this will do. I’m not sure if I would ever use it but it definitely looks big enough to hold a lap top in.

Malene Birger Tummy Waist Bag

If you ever owned a fanny pack in your lifetime you’re either proud or uncomfortable in admitting that the hands free solution to your most important essentials is in fact quite handy. Perhaps the majority of all fanny packs out there don’t win as the most attractive accessories in your closet, but change has come through the design creations of By Malene Birger.

It’s the ultra modern version of the infamous fanny pack; meet the Tummy Waist Bag. Judging from the name alone, I wasn’t too convinced that the Tummy Waist Bag sounded any more polished than the fanny pack. Upon discovering what the Tummy Waist had to offer, it’s quite the piece. At a glimpse, it resembles the mother creation of the fanny pack. It bears the cylindrical slouchy silhouette and an accessible leather strap.

Kate Spade Pineapple Lemondrop Clutch

I never use to be a big fan of Kate Spade. Her bags have always been cute but they were never appealing to me. Lately, I’ve been noticing the designer brand has been releasing some eye catching bags and clutches. One of the bags that is making me drool is the Kate Spade “Lemondrop” Frame Clutch. I absolutely love clutches but this clutch brings adorable up a notch.

Even though I love this clutch in white, I thought I would feature it in green because I felt it was more eye popping. The color really sticks out but so does the pineapple clasp. I can’t say I’ve ever seen a piece of fruit used as a clasp before but it’s definitely cute.

The gems are also an added perk to this clutch. I’m so use to being in love with bags that feature crystals that seeing a bag with gems on it is a change of pace. Obviously, it’s very hard to match this color of green to just about anything but it would look fabulous with an outfit that’s strictly black. The black in the outfit gives a chance for the bright green to be the center of attention.

I personally would not buy this clutch in green, as it’s too out there for me, but I would buy it in white! Such a gorgeous clutch to say no to!

You can purchase the Kate Spade New York “Lemondrop” Frame Clutch at Nordstrom for $225.

3.1 Phillip Lim Berry Wristlet

A trip to New York isn’t complete without a visit to Soho. I love stopping in the little designer boutiques where you can find items that aren’t readily available anywhere else. As I love the 3.1 Phillip Lim Camera Bag Cross-Body, I had to stop in the boutique. There, I found a beautiful clean space filled with sophisticated edgy pieces. One of these was the Berry Wristlet.

The store version was available in two colors: pink and mint green. Quite a contrast against the multitude of spiked studs covering the bag. It’s a perfectly edgy and girl piece for the girl who doesn’t want to carry rocker black. And if you like spikes and want to add it to your wardrobe in a small way, the Berry Wristlet is the perfect choice to make a statement!

I picked up the bag and actually gasped with joy as I saw two perfect little compartments. One contained credit card and bill slots as well as a coin purse. The other was perfectly sized for your cell phone with a strap to keep it in place. Pure genius! It measures 5″ x 4″ x 2″ and for the brave, the wrist strap is removable. When you can find it, it is $350.

An alternative to the all over studs is the Berry Wristlet with studs on the strap only. Instead, a crosshatch pattern covers soft leather on this bag available in soft saffron brown for $275 at Nordstrom

Charlotte Olympia gives you four clutch looks in one

I can’t even begin to explain how excited I am that Charlotte Olympia designer Charlotte Dellal has decided to grace the handbag world with her presence. I’ve been singing that praises of Dellal’s sharp, modern, sexy footwear over at TalkShoes for some time now, and her witty sensibility is a welcome addition to the accessories marketplace. The Charlotte Olympia Pandora Plexiglass Clutch, with its three included inserts and confident lines, is a very promising start for this handbag neophyte.

My initial reaction to this little clutch was a tad dubious; I think that lucite (or otherwise clear) evening bags are very cool, but they’re probably a tough sell without a covetable brand behind them, and Dellal is looking to build an audience instead of sell to one that already exists and loves her bags. When I found out that the bag came with three insertable pouches, though, my mind changed completely. In fact, this might be my perfect evening bag.

I’d probably choose to carry it without one of the pouches for maximum effect, but if you’d rather hide your belongings, this clutch allows you to do so in a way that would match practically any outfit you might dream up. And when you’re not using the liners, they could easily double as coin purses or accessory pouches in another bag. This little clutch packs a lot of versatility and some interesting extras for the price, and I can’t wait to see the rest of the Charlotte Olympia line.

Stella McCartney tries fruit on her Falabella Tote

I thought Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring for us this year. He was wrong and/or the joke is on us. This morning I awoke to snow-covered buildings and tonight the temperature continues to steadily drop. I’m keeping my mind on the tropics in order to stay mentally warm.

Growing up in Florida we had a lemon and lime tree in our yard and these fruits always remind me of bright sunshine-y days. When I first spotted the Stella McCartney Fruit-Print Falabella Tote, my mind went to my childhood backyard and I was happy. But then I took another glance at the bag and wondered who would ever carry it.

We can’t say Stella McCartney doesn’t know how to add a little fun to her bags, because this is not the first Falabella Tote that has a spring theme printed on it (remember the floral version?). From botanical to floral, Stella continues to remind us that spring and summer are knocking at our door, even if Mother Nature disagrees.

Valentino shows some restraint

If brevity is the soul of wit, what’s the soul of fashion? I like maximalism as much as anyone (in fact, probably far more than most people), but the grandiosity of it can feel exhausting from time to time. The trends toward layering textures, colors and prints are some of my favorite fads in years, but that doesn’t mean I can’t look at the Valentino Satin Bow Box Clutch and think that it seems positively refreshing by comparison.

Valentino often goes maximal with its accessories, so the subtle charms of this little clutch are even more welcome. From the perfect shade of blush to the expertly obscured slot for hand-carry, this is an evening bag that doesn’t try to overshadow whatever beautiful dress with which you’ve surely paired it.

Spring into the season with a bright exotic bag

As I sit on my couch and look out the window, a bright blue sunny sky is all I see over NYC right now. Only problem is that it is still cold. I am sure for many of you these temperatures are not that bad, but I’m a Florida transplant and my fingers are almost too cold to type. You think I’m kidding? I’m not – take a peek at what I look like as I try to work today.

Anyhow, back to the bags. I may still be bundling up with a warm winter coat but I have spring on my mind. And for spring one of the major trends is having a bright bold ladylike bag adorning your arm. I would love to infuse color and an exotic skin into my collection with the Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Chain-Strap Shoulder Bag.

Nancy Gonzalez is the Queen of color and exotic skins for that matter. I love the playful chain shoulder strap being used on this design. Of course the skin speaks for itself, as it does on every Nancy Gonzalez bag. Both of the color options, fuchsia or yellow, are entirely eye-catching and will work perfectly with spring’s huge color-blocking trend.

I’m loving the visual I am getting when picturing this bag with just about any outfit, from a little black dress to casual chic, you can do not wrong with this bag. There are plenty of pockets for your convenience. Overall dimensions are 7″H x 10″W x 3 1/2″D while the shoulder strap drop is 8.75″.

Marni takes texture to another level

Texture is one of the big fashion words on everyone’s lips this year, which means that finding a unique way to incorporate it into your wardrobe is going to be a big challenge in a few months. Most of you seemed a bit tepid toward the prevailing ideas about python and its many uses, and I can’t say I blame you – I saw enough snakeskin during the Fall 2011 shows that I’d be perfectly happy if I didn’t see it again until 2012.

Thank god, though, that we can always rely on Marni to give us an uncommon take on a common idea. The Marni Studded Leather Shoulder Bag makes a bold texture statement without being a slave to one trend or another, and it does that while being neutral and functional enough to use every day. This bag has enough personality to not appeal to absolutely everyone, but who wants to carry a bag that can be seen on the shoulder of every other woman walking down the street?

Jason Wu "Lauren" Python Clutch: I'm Wooed by Punchy Python

Bright fuchsia pink might just be the ultimate ensemble-accenting color for summer. And in decadent python, it's lust-worthy. Though I'm still loving the larger clutches, this is a traditional dainty number that works for fine lunches and fabulous evenings in your best silk dresses. The discreet silver hardware gives it character without being intrusive to the gorgeous snakeskin, and gray striped grosgrain lining is a pleasing surprise each and every time you pop it open. I love the sense of humor of the little owl logo - her name is Miss Wu! - very subtle and so cute. This is simply a classic that will last for the long run, a wise investment in an uplifting and outfit-punctuating color. I would be pre-ordering my "Lauren" right now, but python can't be delivered to California so someone will have to sneak it to me! At Bergdorf Goodman for $1595.

Pair with: Think ladylike with a twist. Brian Atwood's "Greta" patent-leather shoes bring it; the peep-toed shape is classic, the studs and 6" inch heel amp up the sex appeal.

Miu Miu Appliquéd Metallic Leather Clutch: Boom, Boom, Pow!

Expect the unexpected: comic strips are the latest inspiration for the fashionable. (Something is in the air; MAC has super hero-themed makeup and a Wonder Woman remake is in the works). This starburst-covered, metallic bag is a frisky take on super-hero chic, as opposed to say, thigh-high boots or mega-thick, waist-cinching belts. It's too gimmicky for my taste, especially shown with the matching Miu Miu skirt, but it's definitely fun if you're looking for a trendy conversation piece. All you need is a pair of roller skates and you'll be the most powerful girl in the rink.

Alaïa Large Perforated Tote: Peek-a-Boo Appeal

Nothing says "summer" to me like a fetching perforated tote bag. While I hate totally see-through bags (who wants to flash their most personal belongings to the world? Tampons? Concealer?), Alaïa's has enough coverage to be discreet, due to the delicate design and solid leather side panels. With such intricate perforation, it almost has a lace-like effect. The light tan is soft and neutral, perfect for summer and will transition well into fall. But I would take advantage of the large size all summer long. Throw in all your summer essentials - bikini, hat, sunscreen, an extra tank - because you never know when you'll get invited to a last-minute pool party!

Frugal Snob: Rebecca Minkoff Colorblock Covet Satchel: A Girl Needs Options

The softly structured look is the perfect combination for a bag. Ladylike but not too rigid amounts to the best of both worlds. Love how the glazed gray leather gives Rebecca Minkoff's color-blocked bag a metallic tint - much softer than bright clown colors and far more sophisticated. Trimmed in tan patent leather, turning the level of luxe up a notch, Minkoff's latest lust worthy bag has a top handle plus body strap, and it's loaded with options like a front flap pocket and multiple interior patch pockets. Such a great find under $400! If only buying cars was this simple.

Jil Sander P Lock Shoulder Bag: Load and Lock

Raf Simons has redefined Jil Sander bags. Which should come as no surprise. He's a forward-thinking designer who calls finding the middle ground between two extremes the "interzone." This bag isn't what I would call it extreme, but it is extremely covetable. It's in keeping with the founder's minimalist aesthetics, nothing fussy going on here, but elevation - from boring to fabulous - is in the details. Like the extra-wide shoulder strap that skews the bag's proportions in a modern way, and the unusual, fine lock and key closure. Plus, three interior compartments show attention practicality. It doesn't always take a lot of jazz to make a statement, just expert detailing and perhaps an understanding of the "interzone." In this case, where minimalism has been taken to the maximum. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1425.

Pair with: Function and form meet again with Chloé's triple-strap flat, in cognac with gold hardware. The straps give what would otherwise be a dull ballet flat the flair of an oddly charming Mary Jane.

Stella McCartney Soft Raffia Iris Shoulder Bag: A Pure Spring Bag, for the Pure-Hearted Animal Lover

A bag that is both PETA- and Bag Snob-approved does not come along often. While it can be hard to reconcile spending a solid chunk of change on bag that involves only faux leather, Stella McCartney's Iris bag is so pristine and sophisticated that I can't resist. Yet another example of color-blocking with muted shades, the tan trim (in mock vachetta leather) makes the raffia center, a refreshing white, snap in a way that's pleasingly geometric. The buckle, on the adjustable shoulder strap, and trademark Stella plate offset the chasteness of the bag, adding just enough interest. Natalie Portman will be very happy (though I'm not sure how well it will function as a diaper bag). Sleek and refined, plus cruelty-free. Vegans - and snobs - rejoice! At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1045.

Pair with: Keep it clean and modern with Gianvito Rossi's beige leather open-toe clogs. And you get your true leather fix. Sorry, Stella!

Henry cuir Calumet Shoulder Bag: Wear it, Cowgirl

For those of you in the market for a saddle bag, it simply must be Henry cuir, by designer Henry Beguelin. No one can do it justice like him; each of his bags is handmade with the saddle-stitching technique (alternating needles every stitch). No bells and whistles; gorgeous leather is the focal point. The signature stitching is minimal on the flap, but lift it up and find two pouch pockets with "T" stitched on them. Perhaps standing for "telephone"? Beguelin has stated that humor is an important aspect to each of his bags. So is practicality, with a wide gusset for maximum storage with minimal profile, and an adjustable strap, lengthening enough to be a cross-body - just in case you are actually getting on a horse. (Hey, you never know.) At Barneys New York for $1,550.

Fendi Borsa Colorblock Crossbody Bag: Be Still My Heart

Oh, Fendi! It's been so long since you've shown me anything to make my heart pitter-patter. Now my blood pressure is up again. This bag lent instant impact to the voluminous smock-like dress seen in the Spring show. Models sauntered down the runway with it (one donning a tulip petal-like tangerine dress, to be exact) and I just want to stroll the streets of Florence, "Borsa" in hand. The reason is simple: cross-body is my favorite daily casual style, but this one is also luxe, effortless chic!
The stripe of blue on a white side-body is such a minute detail but one you can't help notice immediately. And it's even more striking in action, as the side of a bag is the first thing people see when you're in motion, whether it's down the runway for Karl or through the cobbled piazzas of Italy. I'd be happy take either walk!

Barbara Bui Jules Messenger Bag

Every neutral ensemble should integrate a splash of color, so why shouldn't your bag? Barbara Bui's lovely suede shoulder bag has a slouchy feel and a couple of colorful surprises - a pop of purple suede trim on the internal side zip pocket and dusty-rose satin lining. While it's not technically a messenger since it doesn't go cross-body, the "Jules" makes up for practicality with fabulous internal organization (three compartments in all with the center zipper).

Actually, this bag has more flair than it should: the big tassel is a bit too much for me, tipping the balance of a perfectly minimal style. Luckily, it comes off, along with the dog tag - not a huge distraction but I'd probably remove them both. Details abound, and my favorite is the flat's leather trim with turn-lock closure. A go-with-everything piece, but - hate to say it - that suede is not going to wear well. Barbara BuiJules Messenger Bag On FarFetch for $1060.

Pair with: A neutral shoe with hot details, too. Lanvin's halter slice calfskin wedge ($1,415) has touches of woven brown grosgrain and an angled wooden panel on the heel.

Roger Vivier Fall 2011 Collection: Miss Viv Takes a Stroll on the Wild Side

Roger Vivier - creator of the stiletto heel, master of the evening bag - is known for classic and simple silhouettes. For Fall 2011, they pump up the volume, blasting it from archetypal finesse to savagely chic, courtesy of new shapes and materials. Take your pick. Fuzzy mink bags in fun bright colors, sunny yellow, colbalt blue, and cotton candy pink - how cozy would those be to hold?! Clutches, always a favorite on the red carpet, come decked out with pin-tuck details, glittering beads in Deco-patterns, light-catching pailettes, prism shapes, and an explosion of black feathers. Even the Miss Viv Rider shoulder bag gets embellished and updated with a chain strap and studded detailing. Any option from the collection is enough to inspire a night out on the town. Whatever your poison, Vivier has it for Fall 2011.

Valextra Maxi "Tammy" Bag: Meet Tammy, My New BFF

Oh, Valextra, how I love you so. Let me to count the ways with this new spring handbag. This perfect ladylike bag is delicate yet strong - precisely how I like my satchels. The rose gold frame is the most beguiling yet simplest bit of hardware I've seen on a bag this spring. The size is large enough without being tote-bag big. Sharp, lean edges and slightly expandable sides add up to energy and depth. The only negative is that right white, or "pergamina white" (aka vellum white), is a bit tough to keep clean but the grained leather can be wiped down. Snob secret: baby wipes work great. Now could anything be more elegant for summer?

Alexander McQueen "Obi Bow" Clutch: What's in a Name?

Since inheriting the imposing task of preserving Alexander McQueen's legacy, Sarah Burton has continued to surprise and delight. Instead of doing the expected and continuing releases of bestsellers, she has come up with new designs appealing to McQueen die-hards (that would be me), simultaneously garnering a new audience.

McQueen was famed for a sense of gothic, dark femininity, and Burton is not imitating the master but expanding his vision through an innate sensibility: this bag is a prime example. The name "Obi Bow Clutch" sounds like it would be absurdly girly, even verging on something in which one might tote feminine hygiene products. Thankfully, in Burton's expert hands, the result is intelligent and progressive. The bow is not even close to a poofy dollop; it's a hard, twisted piece of bag sculpture (much like an actual obi). A large and functional clutch, the shiny gold hardware imbues just enough glitter. Covetable and wearable: Burton knows what a woman wants.

Botkier "Charlotte" Satchel: The Cure for the Common Everyday Bag

Here is one of the best Botkier bags ever. Monica Botkier designs her bags with "on-the-go lifestyle of New York women in mind," but the "Charlotte" would suit almost any woman anywhere. Pebbled leather in this warm grey is the most amazing everyday option for ultimate versatility and reduced wear and tear. You'd have to actually put in some effort to make it look dirty. Be free with your color palette and your jewels - unimposing pale gold hardware can sometimes read as silver. The tab-thru-loop closure is clean and simple yet full of personality, and the interior has a center zip and pocket under the flap for complete organization. A perfectly plump east-west shape, just begging to be packed, makes me want to wear this with the shoulder strap, instead of using the top handle. I just want to wear this bag, period.

Valentino Floral-Appliqué Zip-Pocket Bag: Lily-White and Ladylike

This prim and lovely look has the signature Valentino petal motif - Roccoco and highly elaborate - but it's usable and not over-run like a fairy tale. I'm all for fairy tales, but I'm not sure how they can be worked into everyday life. Even though aspects are evocative of a pristine petticoat, I'd be happy to work this bag into my everyday life. The appliqué has been updated with dark crystal embellishments, so it's more fashion and less doily. The outer zipper is not only a great aesthetic feature, but it functions as the grab-and-go essentials holder.

Reece Hudson Ostrich No. 6 Lady Bag

Kirna Zabête has a knack for stocking some of the most unique and progressive designer pieces and this Reece Hudson clutch is no exception. Its envelope-shape and stark white shade are evocative of yes, a wildly glamorous envelope. Quilted, woven, and belted to perfection, I love the look of these details on pristine ostrich skin. I'll concede white is not your most practical color, especially on an oversized clutch that potentially requires two hands to hold (no grubby fingerprints, please!). But ostrich skin is sturdy and can take a beating, even in the rain. I am, however, concerned about the generous size - a foot wide and 9" tall. Convertible straps would be helpful, and I'd really love to see a cross-body strap on this. But I'd still be elated to get my hands on it.

Oryany Rafia and Leather Hobo: Leader of the Pack

This bag is such great fun for the style icon who doesn't follow the crowd. A laid-back hobo with summer-worthy details - raffia-wrapped strap and sprinkling of fringe - Oryany has made a frugal snob find that speaks volumes to personal style. And those are usually the edgiest girls. (Remember years ago when everyone was surprised to spot Kate Moss wearing high-street staple Topshop?) I love a bag that's got loads of its own spunk without being showy. Details like the asymmetrical zipper make it. And who can ignore the molten color? Orange is hot for summer. Wear it with khaki to brighten up a casual day look, and whatever you do, wear it with your own sense of style. At Neiman Marcus for $398.

Pair with: A personalized cuff helps establish independence; Jessica Kagan Cushman's resin zodiac cuffs come with constellations for each astrological sign, for $85.