Fashion Blog » Handbags

Hey! Do you have $2,300 that you want to blow on a Bottega bag? No? Me either. I have a little thing called a “mortgage” to pay and my last name isn’t ‘Witherspoon’ or ‘Jolie’. I keep looking at this bag and wishing they’d have some kind of super sale and drop the price to say… $60 or so. In my dreams, right?!

Bottega Veneta Structured Woven Tote: $2,300

Luxe, woven leather design with two compartments and a tie closure across the opening.

So, since that bag will never be owned by me, I have found some alternatives at more reasonable prices and you know….they’re just as handsome!

SR SQUARED by Sondra Roberts Woven Tote $120.00

There’s no place you wouldn’t be proud to sport this classic-chic tote from SR Squared by Sondra Roberts. Its sleek lines, tasteful details, and woven body show just the right combination of sophistication and fashionable impact.

ECHO Woven Shopper $29.95

Headed for the beach or pool–or even out for a fun day of shopping? Make sure this tote from ECHO tags along. Thick, woven straw gives it breezy, casual style and the size is just right to carry all your good-time gear.

Find more affordable handbags at Smarter.com.

It’s becoming almost a necessity to have some sort of electronic Internet device on your body at all times. Usually that means something more compact, like the iPhone, BlackBerry, or a cell phone in general, but most people find that they need to do significant amounts of work on the go, and they need to bring their laptop with them. But you don’t need to carry your laptop around in the Plain Jane black cover you got to protect it from bumps and scratches! And it’s certainly hard to find the right size back to hold your laptop in, considering it’s long and thin shape. So here’s some sleek, fashionable bags designed just for laptop carrying. Brought to you at the best of prices from Smarter.com:

Bramble & Brown Cheltenham Ladies Laptop Case: $179.00

McKlein USA Limited Edition Glenview Leather Ladies’ Laptop Case: $128.00

Shop for affordable laptop bags at Smarter.com.

Paul&Joe SISTER, the Parisian up-and-coming fashion and accessory line, started in 2006 and has grown in popularity do to it’s celebrity patronage and unique shoe and handbag designs. Paul&Joe SISTER combines chic French simplicity and iconic, well-built footwear and handbags to craft a unique look. Paul&Joe, an original very retro-chic fashion label, has been reinvented by it’s “sister” label for a more urban look.

Paul&Joe clothing is available at such sites as revolveclothing.com and net-a-porter.com. What does it mean to be a Paul&Joe SISTER kind of girl? You’re tied to your roots and the classic look, but you’re tough and ready to fend for yourself in the city, out on the town, or in the workplace. Paul&Joe SISTER designs are crisp enough to be worn in a business casual setting, but also sexy and well made enough to be worn to a nice dinner or family gathering.

Some of the must-haves from the Paul&Joe SISTER collection include:

Paul&Joe Sister Wool-Blend Mini Dress from Net-a-porter.com:$180.00

With a draped neckline and raised hem, this is a little black dress with a bit of pizazz. What can you do to make it special? Pair it with some iconic Paul&Joe SISTER heels or a leather handbag, favorites of celebrities such as Rachel Bilson.

Paul&Joe SISTER Mazed Fringe Handbag from Net-a-Porter.com: $162.40

And the best for last of Paul&Joe SISTER’s collection is the update on the classic ankle boot from last season: zip front, fine details, thicker body with smaller heel make this pump truly a work of art.

Paul&Joe SISTER Perine Zip Front Pumps from ShopBop.com: $504.00

Shop for women’s shoes and mini dresses at Smarter.com.

It seems like summer hasn’t even started and fall collections are starting to rain into most stores. I wanted to share with you the new Marc Jacobs handbag collection you can view at MarcJacobs.com, I love the theme of stardust on the bags, and I have to say that this collection outshines the last collection with a little more sparkle! I am happy he is continuing with the Stam bag which is one of my favorites. So, which one is yours?

Beat Bag

Rock Bag

Slam

The Large Single

Little Lola

Shop for Marc Jacobs bags at Smarter.com.

You eat organically, you support local farmers, you made a pact this summer to water the plants sparingly and taking the train to work instead of the SUV. It’s been a good summer for you and the environment, and you feel like you’ve made great strides. The garden is more sustainable, you have a compost heap, you even use organic cleaning products so you don’t kill the environment with Clorox, stain removers, and the inevitable harsh chemicals that fill the aisles at the shopping plaza. Basically, you are an Environmental God or Goddess, and you wonder about the next terrain: clothing. What can you do to make your clothing more organic, more sustainable, more natural, and better for the environment? Do you like the hippie hemp look, or do you want something more, and are afraid of slipping from being the “environmentally conscious professional” to the “bat lady with her compost heap and henna tattoos”.

Never fear! Instead of thinking “organic” clothing, think about reusable and recyclable clothing instead. Donate to your local Salvation Army with all of your old (but still functional) pieces so you can start the chain of recycling for the less fortunate. Now that you’re such a good person that gives back to the community, you can reward yourself with a few new clothing purchases. You don’t have to go shopping at the local Salvation Army to find recyclable fashions: there are plenty of online sites that specialize in reusable clothing, vintage pieces, and handmade goods, like Etsy.com or even some independent stores on Ebay.com.

Here are some of my top picks from Etsy.com:

Austin Leeds Tailored Vintage Blazer: $30.00


Vintage 80s 90s BLACK Velvet with GOLD Trim and STUD Accents STRAPLESS Dress XXS XS: $32.00


Handmade clasp clutch purse with butterflies on taupe: $60.00

Okay, your reaction was probably something like…”What?! How about under $50?” kind of close, or something like it? Well, I know $200 is steep these days, but if you’re planning on investing money into a handbag, a nice one at that, you will unfortunately have to pay the price. Yes, yes, we’ve gone over this a million times before. I won’t try to convince you anymore of this. Instead, I will show you some great bags for under $200…just as I promised.  I guess everyone loves a deal because the first handbag I eyed on Nordstrom.com, a Steve Madden Crossbody Drawstring bag was already out of stock! It must have been it’s reasonable price of $180, a steal for colorblocked butter leather…oh well, we shall say farewell to this and move on, there’s plenty more where that came from.

All right, some “rockstar” ruffles never hurt I guess, and plus I haven’t picked any Betsey Johnson goods in a while. I do love the color of this satchel…I’m always a sucker for olive green. The ruffles are fun, I just wish it were a different shape is all. I prefer over the shoulder bags always. I have a secret fear of leaving behind a bag I have to carry on my arm or with my hand. Shoulder is best, but this one’s still pretty cute.

The ruffles are snake embossed on this bag. This one should turn some heads!

Betsey Johnson ‘Rockstar Ruffle’ Satchel $179.90

Now this next bag is one I REALLY like. It’s not only a better price, but the design is obscure yet drawing.

I love this Marc by Marc tote bag. A multicolored backdrop with little white clouds here and there makes this tote funky yet almost a little classic looking. Not sure if I’d use this in the fall or winter…probably not, but it would be perfect to start using again come February and keep using through the end of September. $117.60 is a high price for cotton canvas, but just by taking one look at this bag you know you are paying a higher sale price for the design and label. How can you resist?

Marc by Marc Jacobs Women’s Locket Pocket Big Tote, $117.60

So, this last one doesn’t qualify as a “handbag” officially, seeing as how it’s a mini pouch! But, I couldn’t resist this one.

How cute is this little zipper pouch! It’s meant to strap onto a larger See by Chloe satchel bag, which is not under $200 so is not included in this post, BUT it is the best shade of mustard yellow I’ve ever seen and of course I fell in love with it because it says “Dance or Die.” PERFECT! This is my new theme in life. It even has a little record player at the very bottom that seems to be playing out the words. The small graphic design is brilliant, and I would splurge on this and use it as a going out, bar hopping ID and lipstick bag. It seems to be just the right size for this, and strapping around my wrist as I dance the night away…

See by Chloe Dance or Die Small Pouch $66.50

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more handbags.

Are you one of those fortunate people who have extremely fashionable mothers, aunts, or grandmothers?  Maybe they have carefully maintained the styles of their childhoods, with 50’s updos and Jackie O fitted, quilted dresses.  Or maybe you have a mother or aunt who’s closet is better than a vintage store because their fringed vests and maxi dresses are perfectly your size.  In exchange, you offer knee-high boots and the occasional foxy fur trench coat.  But let’s think outside the box for a second, shall we:  what fashions of today can both mothers and daughters invest in, and enjoy, in their own separate styles, ages and daily lives?  Here are some picks and tips for how you and your mom can style a piece to fit your personal needs, and think of every price as halfsies!

Steven Madden Women’s Clubbin Studded Ankle Boot: $159.95

Available in full and half sizes from 5.5-10, these beautiful sexy studded ankle boots are uber fashionable and classic with a slight rocker-punk edge.  You will love pairing these with some skinny jeans and a sparkly top for a night on the town, and your mom will love the fresh facelift these boots will bring to her afternoon at the theater or pencil skirt for the office.

Development Brown faux fur button detail vest at Bluefly.com: $216.99

Perfect investment for fall, this chic faux fur vest is toasty and sleekly fitted.  Pair it with some black leggings, knee high boots, and white long sleeve shirt and you have a perfect fashion staple for fall; your mom will be delighted for the fashionable step-up from the quilted or skipants-material vest she usually invests in. Warm clothing doesn’t just have to be functional, it can be fashionable too!

Hype Ivory Leather “Eugenie” medium tote at Bluefly.com: $210.00

A really fashionable and functional back that can transition from the workplace to the night.  Big enough pockets for your mom to fit her work stuff, yet sleek enough for an evening out.  Pair it with a chic little black dress or funky skirt, it’s totally versatile!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more women’s totes & women’s vests.
Discounts on women’s ankle boots.

One of the fun little perks of being a woman (mysteriously left out of the great Rogers and Hammerstein classic, “I Enjoy being a Girl”) is the handbag.  The bag can be practical, cute, chic, elegant and endlessly useful.  They don’t call it arm candy for nothing.   So, what’s up with this no-calorie sweet treat for summer?  Let’s talk about totes you can take to the beach and the fresh city bag, the day clutch.

Take me with you:

Why is it that a little trip to the sand and sea requires so much stuff?  Towel, book, iPod, hair clip, water and if you forget the sunscreen, boy will you be sorry.  So, how to pack it without looking like you need one of those little rolling bags people use to run over your foot in the airport?  The tote.

I really love a metallic for the beach — there is something so flashy/trashy about sliver, gold or bronze against the sand.  Look for a canvas or plastic bag with metallic highlights or even an embossed leather to help withstand the wear and tear of a beach trip.  Leave the delicate calfskin or scarf silk at home unless you don’t mind the weathered look.  I love the St. Tropez glitz of the Carlos Falchi Snake Enbossed ‘Jill’ tote ($140) found on the ever popular Bluefly.com.

May I also suggest a practical canvas tote, here in a strong pop of summer color, by Tory Burch.

Tory Burch ‘Tory’ Canvas Tote: $235

In the Clutch:

Starting up last fall, the day clutch is still a clear trend this spring/summer season.  As always with warm weather, straw makes an appearance and a summery straw clutch with a ocean theme or bright color detail makes even your work suit feel summery and fresh.

For a more seasonless look, I am still distracted by the “tough” leather clutch for day.  The contrast of a slightly rough bag with a floaty summer dress or on trend flowing pant is about as good as it gets.  And, done in forever chic black or a strong burst of color, the clutch can stay with you well into fall.  Take a look at this chain detail cheap and chic bag from Urbanoutfitters.com….

Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch: $42

….or the luxe to a fault poppy colored Lanvin on sale at Barneys.com.

Lavin Pop Chevre Clutch: $649 (was: $1,075)

These day clutches can really give you something to hold on to.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more clutch handbags and tote bags.
Discounts on Tory Burch totes and Carlos Falchi totes.

Although we are struggling through the typical June gloom here in Cali, beach season has arrived officially.  Last week I gave you my top beach essentials, this week I am narrowing it down to my top five beach bags…styles, colors and shapes that are my favorite.  I’ve become kind of obsessed with beach bags, always needing to make sure mine is functional yet stylish.  I like hauling a lot of stuff to the beach and always making sure I am prepared for this or that.  I am usually find myself thankful for bringing certain rescue products when my skin feels too dry, or my hair is knotted from swimming in the ocean.  Here are a few of my favorite bags for this summer:

This Old Navy Crossbody Hobo is a really cute style and the pattern is fun and bright and will spice up any plain old white bathing suit coverup.

Women’s Printed Crossbody Hobo in Turquoise Floral: $10.00

As much as I love bright colors and funky patterns, I am a sucker for pure white tote bags among other things.  There is just something so refreshing and chic about them. This one from J. Crew is right up my alley, and the size is good as well.

Canvas Boardwalk Oversize Tote: $59.99

Anthropologie had a slew of absolutely perfect beach bags so I couldn’t resist choosing two.  Everything was right about these two, size, pattern, shape and functionality level…

This roomy bag not only has two top handles but an embellished shoulder strap as well which makes total sense.

The Artist’s Totes bag: $68

This Santa Ana Weekender has a great shape and size, and I absolutely love the detailed paisley embroidery on it.

Santa Ana Weekender: $128

Lastly, a beach trip just wouldn’t be the same without a roomy, traditional straw bag. The Gap of course has done a classic take on one.

Structured Straw Tote: $34.99

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more beach bags.
Discounts on straw totes.

Right now, I have summer on the brain as well as my latest favorite accessory, my new dog.  She is a pretty pup, whose current hobby is to go for walks and show off.  Also, to bark loudly at other dogs while on leash, but we are working on that.  Pretty is as pretty does.

To that end, being the complete accessories hound, I am working on providing her a small wardrobe of collar and leashes to sport while taking the air around the ‘hood, dog park, or at our local outdoor and dog friendly mall.  Imagine, walking the pup and shopping for purses at the same time.  Almost as relaxing as the beach, but with a lower SPF requirement.

So for all you out there who love to accessorize till it hurts, here are two little treats I found, just for fun.  I have done some research and there are many, many great leashes and collars out there right now.  My own pooch sports a Kelly green leather leash inspired by a Hermes, one I spied on a fellow Neiman Marcus shopper’s dog years ago and never quite forgot.

For summer, may I suggest one of these charming metallic collars I found on GlamourDog.com?

Heavy Metal Collar: $23.95

Additionally, just because I can not resist the idea, how about matching your pooch’s necklace with this candy wrapper Prada bag (happily on sale!) spotted at Saks.com. Pop your (and Rover’s) metallic accessories against white jeans and walk on!

Prada Vitello Diano Tote: $1,760