Designers Handbags

I hadn’t loved any of the new Louis Vuitton purses for quite awhile, but that all changed when I laid eyes on the Eva Clutch. The design is inspired by one of my favorite models Eva Herzigova. I’m not sure if “inspired by” means she took part in it’s conception, or if by looking at her perfect face someone was inspired to make it…either way this dainty bag is getting my vote for must have Louis of 2008. The clever removable straps allow you to carry it three different ways, using the short chain on your shoulder, using the long strap on your shoulder (which leaves the chain hanging as a decoration), or using the chain around your wrist as a pouchette. I love love love this bag! The Eva Clutch is available online and in select stores (it’s selling out quickly, so get on a list) for $530, not bad as far as Louis go.

Louis Vuitton collaborated with Richard Prince for a spring line of handbags, and now they’ve taken it a step further and created a special limited edition version to celebrate Prince’s first solo exhibition (called “Continuation”) that will take place at the Serpentine Gallery (in the UK) from June 26 - Sept 7.

There will be 50 of the ostrich and canvas Jamais bags available (numbered and signed of course) at Vuitton’s Sloane Street store in London and each will be priced at about $17,800.

Very springy and cute, I love ‘em!

Only women looking to make a serious statement, and who really like frogs, will buy and carry this Evening Rana Pouch by Marc Jacobs. It might not be the boldest wristlet out there, but with an over-sized golden frog (complete with glittering gemstone eyes) perched brazenly on the front it’s hardly subtle. Made of kangaroo leather with a lining of silk my favorite feature is the attractive single strap loop-through closure. And if the black isn’t bright enough for you now worries, there’s always the hot pink option (in case the golden frog alone just isn’t going to turn enough heads). 8″ x 5 1/2″ x 6″, $795.

The color scheme of this L.A.M.B. Signature Hopewell Bag reminds me of crisp spring mornings and freshly cut grass, and the structured canvas and leather design make it trendy and stylish. Features include a zipper along the sides and base that unzips to increase the bag’s capacity, gold metal hardware, rolled leather handles with link attachments and a 6 1/2″ drop, large flat pockets with magnetic closures on both the front and the back, a primarily open top with a magnetic closure tab, and a leather lined L.A.M.B. nameplate on the pocket-loaded and textiled-lined interior. $420

Versace bags are always ornate and loud, if you like to stand out among a sea of Louis Vuitton clones, just add some Versace to your handbag collection! The newest addition to the line is the large studded tote. The gold leather and gold hardware detailing is pretty but what makes this bag a bit “off” are the two top flaps that open…to an unsightly extent. Not my cup of tea, it looks so… exposed. However I do like the bag when it’s closed! If you feel the need to let it all hang out, the Versace Large Studded Tote is available at Neiman Marcus, for $2,875!

Want a neutral handbag with snazzy, metallic style and plenty of soft leather? Anya Hindmarch has a new shoulderbag - the Leather Mirror Bag — that synthesizes smooth calf leather in a chilly grey tone and mirror-leather silver finish to create a masterpiece. The hobo style also makes it easy to carry over your shoulder and tuck just under your arm — a must-have for any bag I own. The suede-lined inside and functional pockets make it a great everyday bag with a touch of jazz to make it a great accessory to any outfit for $1,195 (19 1/2″ x 2″ x 13 1/2″).

You gotta love a bag named “Groovee,” and this Dr. Q Colorblock Groovee by Marc Jacobs has a lot more to love than just its name. Available in two color schemes (wine multi and midnight multi) it’s made of casually flashy crinkled patent leather with a flat bottom (including protective metal feet of course), gold metal hardware, a removable shoulder strap, a zip top with an extra long pull tab (yay for less fumbling!), 3 pockets on the inside, and a multi-colored textile lining. $498

Bright and cheerful, the Miss Pocket Patchwork Snakeskin North/South Bag by Dolce & Gabbana will go with almost any outfit (probably best on solid colors though) and in my opinion fits in during any season. Made in Italy of genuine snakeskin with suede trim, it has silver hardware, a fine textile lining, and a suede patch embossed with “Miss Pocket” on the inside. It also has short leather handles and a longer shoulder strap (both detachable), plus an engraved nameplate that dangles on the outside of the bag. $3,995

I like this Versace Stamped Croc Darling Tote because it’s neutral, it’s generously sized, it has a nice relaxed shape, and (perhaps best of all) it has straps that convert it for backpack wear and side ruching that can be unbuckled to increase capacity. A very real and useful convertible bag. It also has a healthy dose of style from slightly iridescent crocodile leather, gold metal hardware, and a satin lining. It also features metal feet, loads of pockets (most of them with zipper closures), and padded leather handles. $4,335.

Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta is famous for its signature collection of hand woven leather goods, the simple clean lines make them some of the most in demand bags season after season. The newest addition to the Intrecciato line, is the over sized tote. Perfect for the beach or an over night get away, this bold summer bag makes a splash with its red patent leather body and brass detailing. A peek inside shows soft camel suede lining and a pocket that zips shut. Bottegas never come cheap, this being no exception, retail price is $2,680! A worthwhile splurge, it will last you for decades.