Designers Handbags

Posted Jun 12th 2007 5:04PM by Sandy Maple

Filed under: Handbags

There were a lot of important things being discussed at the G8 summit last week: combating disease in Africa, fair global trade and world climate issues among them. But what caught the attention of fashionistas everywhere was Cherie Blair’s handbag. The wife of Prime Minister Tony Blair took a little heat for the price tag, but she looked great carrying this Tanner Krolle Eva bag. With straw-printed, embossed calf leather, the bag is lined in suede and features the signature circle and square fastener. Inside are three pockets, including a cell phone holder. £895.00.

Posted Jun 10th 2007 5:02PM by Sandy Maple

Filed under: Handbags

The old saying “there’s nothing new under the sun” doesn’t hold true when it comes to designer handbags. While many designers seem to be drinking from the same well, there are at least a few who are charting new territory. Husband and wife designers Lukasz and Bozenna Bogucki create unique bags using stainless steel, wire mesh, and the odd leaf or feather. This clutch, from their Opera collection, features an indigo blue panel over silver stainless steel. Over the blue is a black mesh strip with a large hematite gemstone decorating the front. Accordion sides, black velvet lining and a detachable silver chain strap complete the look. $235.

Posted Jun 9th 2007 5:03PM by Sandy Maple

Filed under: Handbags

There really isn’t anything special about the design of these Jelly bags, but the availability of such beautiful colors makes up for the simple style. This color is called arancio, but you can choose from a veritable rainbow of hues with names like zinco and bleu. The bags come in three sizes and all feature silver hardware and an inside pocket. Made from latex rubber, they are durable and washable and sure to come in a color that complements your attire. The large size sells for $194.99.

Posted Jun 9th 2007 9:02AM by Rigel Gregg

Filed under: Handbags

Very simple in design, Calder laptop cases are understated and classic inside and out. Crafted with full-grain leather made by one of England’s oldest tanners, the cases also have a hand-laid carbon fiber shell that’s amazingly strong while not being too heavy. A silk velvet lining and suspension system protect your laptop from damage in your travels, and the whole setup reminds very much of an instrument case as opposed to a shoulder or tote bag (which is no surprise considering they make guitar and violin cases as well). Available for £2020 through the Bill Amberg store.

Any way you carry it, it’s bound to garner you some serious attention. The Prada Tessuto Gauffre 2Way Tote Bag features a lengthy shoulder strap and an elegant woven leather handle, allowing you a couple of choices for carrying this shiny brown purse. With its thick pleats and gold hardware, it’s surprisingly glamorous, in a low-key sort of way. The bag’s lining is especially attractive: gold lettering spells out Prada and mingles with the brand’s hieroglyphic-style monogram print. Carry this practically anywhere - it’s an easy way to pull together your look. Available for around $1130 at Diabro.

It’s not really time just yet to get cozy with the suede, but I’m already making plans to nab the gorgeous Kate Spade Raleigh Suede Francis Bag. The gray version is a little too staid for my liking, but the light brown is a perfect blend of velvety woven suede and soft pony. The calfskin patent leather adds a little attitude to the otherwise low-key but perfectly luxurious purse. Available for $795 at Kate Spade.

Ladies, let me introduce you all to my holy grail. This is the bag I long for, dream about, and would be willing to do just about anything to get my hands on. In fact, there were a few precious moments earlier this year when I picked her up and gazed longingly at every perfect inch of her, but, alas, Neiman Marcus does not accept Visa, and I was forced to sulk the rest of my shopping trip (PJ, you know I squealed like a little girl when I spotted her in a lonely corner of the ladies clothing dept.!). Imagine how happy I was to discover this unattainable beauty waiting for me on-line.

The Balenciaga Matelasse Bag (in white with silver hardware) is a true handbag masterpiece. Made from the most amazing quilted leather imaginable (pardon my embellished remarks), the ‘Matelasse’ features silver-tone studs, dual rolled leather handles with whipstitching detail, front zip pocket with tassel pull, zip top closure with tassel pull, attached leather-framed mirror, and lined interior with zip pocket. Measurements for this small model are a perfect 12.5 x 9 x 5.5. There are plenty of quilted handbags on the market, but trust me ladies, this design blows them out of the water.

This high-coveted style from the popular Balenciaga Motorcycle line is available on-line for $1989 via Styledrops (please be advised that this price is almost $300 above retail as the site’s headquarters are located in Italy). You can also contact Balenciaga NY by calling 212-206-0872 for pricing and availability.

I know we’ve already seen pics of a celebrity toting a Balenciaga Giant Hardware Bag, and I’ve already mentioned it here. It doesn’t matter, ladies. You can never get enough Balenciaga (or is that just me)? Just take a look at the fabulous, outrageous, and supreme supermodel Janice Dickinson (can you tell I adore her)?

Janice is being her usual over-the-top self, so the gorgeous Balenciaga Giant City Bag in Vert Gazon (grass green) sitting next to her on the floor almost slipped my radar. Unlike Katie Holmes’ Day style I featured yesterday, Ms. Dickinson has chosen the exact same stunning color in the quintessential City style. If you don’t own a bbag, you should definitely start with a City. As with the Day style, this stunning bag also comes with regular hardware. Available via Balenciaga NY (212-206-0872).