Chloe is debuting a chic tote for fall crafted from "alligator-stamped" (that sounds humane, doesn't it?) calfskin leather. The Cyndi bag above is in a subtle yet chic slate grey that makes fall just one time of year to enjoy carrying it. (The bag is also available in black patent.) As far as pricey totes go, it's hard for me to get enthused about much in this handbag-saturated age we're living in (I'm still carrying the original L.L. Bean boat and tote -- my grandmother would be proud), but this bag does strike me as versatile and classic, a kind of sleeper it-bag you could carry for more than a few seasons. Oversized at 15 x 13 x 7.5 inches with a 6.5 inch handle drop, this tote is currently available exclusively at Net-a-Porter for $2,200.
For a colorful addition to your wardrobe, DKNY's Patent Leather Hobo is the perfect accessory that can last for seasons to come. With a vibrant turquoise color tone and gold metal studs beautifully outlining its shape, the size will prove to be functional for days while its glossy sheen and gold detailing will be fashionable for evenings. It features metal rings at either ends of the shoulder strap and interior zip pockets and compartments for organization. DKNY's Patent Leather Hobo is also available in white. For those who want something smaller in size and classic look, try the Patent Leather Shopper in black. Bag dimensions: 12"W x 10"H x 5"D. Price: $275.
Hermes Paris has just posted a 12.8% increase in sales for the first half of the year and also announces plans to unveil 15 new or improved retail posts in the coming months. Further proof that what doesn't go out of style is worth investing in, the brisk sales at Hermes are mirrored in the vintage market, as well -- fashionistas hungry for rare silk scarves and enamel bracelets are in constant bidding wars on eBay. (Don't get me started on my recent loss of a safari-themed bangle from the early '80s. Damn you, iris1680!) A nice point of entree to the luxury brand? Perfect-for-summer scent "Un Jardin en Mediterranee," the eau de toilette equivalent of a stroll through Mediterranean gardens. At least until you justify that new Birkin.
I'm the kind of girl who always wants options and this handbag satisfies that need. When all zipped up it is a more compact bag but with the versatile zip split in the middle I can always add more to this satchel when the need arises. Tulah Ray's Zip Split Satchel comes in two ravishing colors, Berry and Dark Teal, which can span the seasons. It features pintucked leather, double top zip closure with side zip split, and dégradé coloring with interior zip, wall and cell pockets to keep you organized on the go. The removable shoulder strap is a great addition if, like me, you tend to overload your bag from time to time. Currently with the Anniversary Sale at Nordstroms you can get this handbag for $298 but after the sale it will return to $495. (15" x 11" x 8" with 9" strap drop and 19" shoulder strap)
This medium-sized bag from Juicy Couture is perfect for everyday. With a logo-embossed goldtone clip lock on the front crossing the trapunto-stitched pocket, inside pockets for cell phone and other small essentials, and a heart-shaped mirror tucked inside, the smooth leather 'Hipster' Hobo handbag is fantastic. I love that the bag zips close to ensure nothing rolls out and that it holds just enough without affording a bountiful, heavy load. Plus with a ten-inch strap drop it will tuck under your arm perfectly -- another must for any bag I'll own. This $350 hobo comes in four great colors and measures 14" x 8" x 5".
I am a certifiable tote girl -- need one for travel, one for daily errands, one for lugging my laptop to coffee shops, and one to fill at the farmer's market. So its no surprise I have gravitated towards the totes of all the bags available from Coach. The Bleecker line has a functional style without unnecessary accents, plenty of colors and materials to choose from, and a hefty size to handle any of my tote needs. Personally I'm a big fan of the classic brown with the all-important C-logo but then again I do have a serious crush on chocolate brown. From $298 to $598 depending on the bag it is sure to handle whatever you throw in it. (About 19" x 10" x 6" with varying strap lengths)
This new addition to the L.A.M.B. line offers a sizable package for a reasonable price. Large enough to hold a magazine, water bottle, full size wallet, sweater and other small necessities, the L.A.M.B. 'Soft Signature Wiltshire' Tote comes in three color combinations, although I think the logo-version is my favorite. With leather and goldtone hardware accenting the bag, eight-inch strap drop, and matching zip-pouch for small items this tote is a simple yet stylish combination for $295. (16 1/2" x 11 1/2" x 7")
Nordstrom has a bit of this and that -- uptown to downtown, and great shoes. But did you know that it also has a "Designer Collections" shop on its site? I just discovered its handbag shop. As I write, there are 195 designer handbags offered, in brands that include Burberry, D&G, Kooba, Roberto Cavalli, Versace and a select few others. Fall styles are out -- get shopping! And/or see the gallery * for a few styles I picked at random.
* Note: Gallery pictures open to full size once you click on them.
As stylish and roomy as an oversized leather handbag can be, they are not always the most practical when the weather is warm. The leather becomes hot and sticky against your skin and after a while the weight of your bag (depending on the type of leather) can prove tiresome. As an alternative, the Estiva Linen Beach bag by Gustto may do the trick. It's minimally designed with golden grommets on the flap, leather trimming and ruching on either side. Stylish, versatile and light weight. Dimensions: 16"W x 19"H x 6"D. Price: $385. If you prefer a punchy color in leather, Estiva also comes in yellow and red. And for the more classic colors, there's black, brown (which looks more like grey from the picture) and white.
The obvious answer is no - right? They are potentially one of the most non-stylish and non-luxurious accessories around. Anything that is wrapped around your waist with a protruding pocket (whether placed on your side, in front or behind) is not at all flattering for anyone. Of course, the functionality of fanny packs is a major plus. Your hands are free from holding a bag while your personal items are securely fastened around your body. Freedom! But fanny packs have transformed into belt bags or utility bags while design houses like Louis Vuitton and Gucci have made them so much more fashionable and expensive. Every summer I contemplate purchasing one but just never felt completely comfortable with a fanny pack around my waist. Although I have seen other women wear the Gucci version and it looks so seamless, as though it was made especially for them. Another summer is here and I am still torn with my desire for a belt bag and not looking awkward while wearing one. During my search, I came across a line called Nomaddicts - Utilitarian Couture. Designer Victoria Chan creates unique utility packs that beautifully combines form and function. With a minimalist approach, Chan has a keen eye for details and craftsmanship with style that goes beyond trends.
Carrying one of the new Dolce & Gabbana 'One-of-a-Kind' bags means you were personally invited to one of a select few events at a D&G boutique, as that's the only way to get one. The collection includes 17 bags made of crocodile skin, pony skin, and suede in various combinations, and the warm, intense color schemes are meant to evoke feelings of the English countryside. Sizes vary from small to big and each bag in the collection is designed for women who want a favorite bag that they carry with them every day to every occasion.
This Blow Oversized Hobo Bag by Alexander McQueen makes a heavy, dark statement but can still be pretty versatile I think. Probably best saved until fall, this bag features black stamped patent leather (it looks very 'slick') and gold hardware in the form of zippers and little hinges that hold the shoulder straps on. It has a button fastener on the top of the inside and a twill lining, and of course (being a 'hobo') it's positively HUGE, so there's plenty of room for whatever it is you need to tote around town. $2,100
Gallery: Blow Oversized Hobo Bag by Alexander McQueen
Sparkly and golden, this handbag is sure to make you feel like a rockstar as you make your entrance at whatever event you take it to. It's the Metallic Bracelet Bag from Roberto Cavalli and it's really a two-for-one handbag and bracelet. It features gold metallic leather with a gold bangle bracelet that can either dangle off the bag or dangle on your wrist. It has a clasp closure on the top and a shiny leopard print lining. This is the kind of bag that will make you feel beautiful no matter what kind of day you're having! $1,165
Gucci has tapped British beauty Lilly Donaldson for its new Hysteria Collection ad campaign. In the ads for the Italian fashion house's latest line of oversized, exotically-skinned carryalls, Donaldson frolics with a knight in golden Gucci armor. Donaldson, who appears on the cover of the new British Vogue, has also starred in ads for the likes of Prada, Dior, Jil Sander, Burberry and Dolce & Gabbana. See the gallery for the complete set of Hysteria images.
Despite it's deceiving simply shape, I think this VBH Oval Compact Clutch will still catch a lot of eyes because it's so unique. Its hard shell is described as being covered with "red gradiated python leather" but it looks like fuchsia to me (which isn't bad), and it also features silver metal hardware that includes some ornate trim along the top. The inside is lined with luxe suede and features a silver logo plaque. Certainly not a clutch that will go with very many dresses but certainly one that will make a statement when it does.
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For a colorful addition to your wardrobe, DKNY's Patent Leather Hobo is the perfect accessory that can last for seasons to come. With a vibrant turquoise color tone and gold metal studs beautifully outlining its shape, the size will prove to be functional for days while its glossy sheen and gold detailing will be fashionable for evenings. It features metal rings at either ends of the shoulder strap and interior zip pockets and compartments for organization. DKNY's Patent Leather Hobo is also available in white. For those who want something smaller in size and classic look, try the .jpg){kind=spacer}
Nordstrom
As stylish and roomy as an oversized leather handbag can be, they are not always the most practical when the weather is warm. The leather becomes hot and sticky against your skin and after a while the weight of your bag (depending on the type of leather) can prove tiresome. As an alternative, the Estiva Linen Beach bag by Gustto may do the trick. It's minimally designed with golden grommets on the flap, leather trimming and ruching on either side. Stylish, versatile and light weight. Dimensions: 16"W x 19"H x 6"D. 
