Fendi 'Forever Mama' Flap Bag

Remember when Fendi was the go-to designer for chic everyday handbags? I actually fell in love with accessories the very day that I spotted a white mink Fendi Spy bag at Saks Fifth Avenue's flagship store. And of course, Carrie Bradshaw had some pivotal fashion moments with a myriad of Fendi baguettes. Unfortunately, the brand just couldn't seem to maintain it's luster. Recently, after years of mediocre designs, the sophisticated Peekaboo put the label back at the forefront of handbag design. Similarly to the Peekaboo, the Forever Mama is a seemingly classic bag, but the minute details give it a special twist. First and foremost, the pebbled leather is incredibly sumptuous and features a lovely sheen. The buttery yellow version certainly makes a style statement, but the chocolate brown is obviously more neutral. I've always been obsessed with the natural beauty of tortoise shell, so you can imagine my delight with the logo plaque as well as the strap. With traditional bags taking the place of oversized designs, this may just be the perfect it bag that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. The 'Forever Mama' retails for $1,400. Shop Fendi bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

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Today's the last day...

...for you to preorder the Burberry Prorsum Spring 2011 handbag collection directly from their website! Unfortunately, there's not one bag worth buying. I wouldn't even accept any of them as a gift. They look so juvenile and dare I say it...cheap! The shockingly bright patent leather resembles plastic, that even an avid Wet Seal shopper would find immature and tacky. The logo plaque is clearly an afterthought, that seriously detracts from the already heinous designs. I've come to expect so much more from Christopher Bailey over the past few years and I'm incredibly disappointed. To add insult to injury, these handbags range in price from $995 to $3,300. Seriously...what the fug?!?  

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Louis Vuitton Monogram Sequin Carrousel Bag

On one of my frequent shopping trips, I was delighted to walk into the Louis Vuitton Store as a sales associate pulled out this marvelous work of art! Marc Jacobs never ceases to amaze me with his attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship. The Louis Vuitton Monogram Sequin Carrousel Bag from the Fall/Winter 2010 Runway Collection is no exception to his genius. Showcasing the continuation of the sequin trend into Fall, this masterpiece is Parisian handcrafted with the finest leather in the signature Louis Vuitton Monogram. It also features a gold snap closure, spacious interior, and black calfskin leather trimming along the zipper. I am particularly excited by the textured calfskin flap closure and single beige handle usually showcased on the cream and gray monogram bags! It's also reasonably priced at $2,950 (at the lower price point end of the runway collection). I know what you're thinking... "Will this bag still be in next year?" If anything is timeless in fashion, sequins are (much to my delight)! Combined with the classicism of the Louis Vuitton monogram, sequins, and gorgeous details, I'd say this bag is the must-have showstopper for the season! However, there are only a limited amount available! Order at Louis Vuitton before it sells out.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

I still don't know how I feel about this. I had the same look on my face that Lenny has, when I initially saw this. I'd really love to imagine that he looks fly and doesn't give a fug about anyone else, except he looks as if he's having trouble walking and I fail to believe it was that chilly in whatever bohemian corner of Manhattan he was caught strolling...okay clicking, through. Still love you though! Maybe that outfit should have been laid out for Zoe...two months later?

Let's play a little game, shall we? Leopard No or Leopard Ho...bo! To be fair, I've never been a leopard fan and I tend to like people in spite of their affinity towards the print (i.e. Kimora) - but since leopard seems to be all the rage this season, I figured we should set the record straight. Leopard can be incorporated into your everyday look - but baby steps. PLEASE. This week Paz de la Huerta was spotted wearing this Dolce & Gabbana number, pictured above, at a New York gala. A resounding "Leopard No."

However, this Whiting & Davis Snow Leopard Hobo ($133) is more along the lines of something I can deal with. In fact, I'm actually drawn to this sassy, strappy bag. What do you think?

SJP does it again. PERFECTION. She was photographed at Alexander McQueen's memorial service earlier this week in London, among a host of other names in fashion paying respects to the late designer. RIP McQueen.

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Lanvin Metallic Mini Pop Clutch

I don't know why, but I have been drawn to metallic lately! This Lanvin metallic flap bag definitely caught my eye this week. The gold-painted, distressed lambskin leather gives the clutch a textured exterior and adds a lot of personality to the small bag. This rather simple bag has a fold over flap that is held by a turnlock closure made of enamel and gold. One feature that I cannot resist is the removable logo charm and ribbon decorated handle. If you get tired of wearing this bag as a crossbody, you can simply remove the long strap. But, before you put the chain handle in your closet, try wearing it as a funky necklace or even dare to rock it as belt. My only concern about this bag is the size. This mini bag is 6" X 6", which is barely big enough for your keys, cell, and lip gloss. As cute as this Lanvin bag may be, I have to admit that it's not incredibly practical. However, it's super adorable and available for purchase at Kirna Zabete for $1,165.

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Ralph Lauren Luggage Buckle Bag

I checked the new Forbes 400 wealthiest people in the world list and there were only two who stood out to me. Mark Zuckerberg, because he's so young and it's hard to believe that facebook is such a profitable business, and Ralph Lauren, simply because he was the only fashion designer. His billions are well-deserved, in my opinion, because he single-handedly created American chic with his classic designs, and he is heavily involved in charitable organizations. I always depend on Ralph Lauren for sophisticated, but wearable bags. The Luggage Buckle bag certainly appeals to the ladylike, structured trend that has taken over the globe for fall, but it's far from pretentious. This supple Italian calfskin frame bag features brass hardware, giving it a vintage luggage vibe. The removable long strap and exterior pocket will come in handy for chic moms and busy corporate executives. Purchase directly at Ralph Lauren for $3495.

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Versace Laminated Wallet

Wallets are generally boring, but as proven by this little beauty from Versace, they don't have to be. Although the incredibly glossy patent leather is overwhelming on the larger bags in the collection, it's perfect for a fun wallet. For those of you that are less daring, a wallet is an easy way to break out of your neutral hued handbag rut. The removable chain strap will come in handy when you want to rock this clutch as a chic evening bag. I also appreciate the discreetly branded flip-lock clasp that resembles a light-switch. My whole life revolves around the electric blue version, but it also comes in yellow and bronze. This is one of those wallets that will make you want to pick up the tab just to show it off! Purchase for $695. Warning: Making eye contact with this wallet in direct sunlight may cause temporary blindness. Shop Versace bags at Net-a-Porter.com.  

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Sergio Rossi stars in The Ultimate Evening Bag

Hi everybody! I'm baaaaack. Hope you all had a relaxing weekend. I wasted 9 bucks and 123 minutes of my precious free time going to see Ben Affleck's new film, The Town. I'm not going to bore you with the specifics, but it was basically a predictable heist movie with a cliché love story tie-in. Every scene in the film has been done before and significantly better. Let's move on to this breathtaking Sergio Rossi clutch that should have it's own documentary entitled, The Ultimate Evening Bag. Wouldn't you love to know every intricate detail behind the construction of this masterpiece? I spotted it while flipping through the 25th Anniversary issue of ELLE, and was instantly aghast by its beauty. This Italian crafted black satin evening bag is completely enveloped in Swarovski crystals and plumes. It epitomizes the over-the-top opulence that was so prominent in the fall collections from Giorgio Armani, Alexander McQueen, and countless other premier designers. Purchase directly from Sergio Rossi for $1,785.

Victoria Beckham Launches Handbag Collection

Victoria Beckham is one of the few celebrity designers that I actually take seriously. She has always exhibited exquisite personal style and her namesake line is both timeless and sophisticated. Beckham's spring 2011 collection features sexy silhouettes that accentuate the female form, but I was most impressed by the addition of some pretty striking handbags. My personal favorite is the 'Victoria' satchel. While I feel that her assertion that it can replace your Birkin is a bit of an overstatement, if not blasphemous, the 'Victoria' is certainly a timeless, well-crafted everyday satchel. It epitomizes the ladylike chic trend that is so hot for fall, but I'm sure that did not influence Beckham's design aesthetic. She personifies elegance and luxury, so it is only fitting that her first foray into handbag design would reflect her personal style. The 'Victoria' satchel appears to come in a variety of different buttery-soft leather and color variations. I love the taupe calfskin adaptation, but I certainly would not decline any of those undoubtedly uber expensive crocodile versions as a gift. With a debut handbag collection this spectacular, I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Come spring, the 'Victoria' satchel will be available at Bergdorf Goodman for $3,500. Also available at Net-a-Porter.com.

  

Photos courtesy of InStyle and style.com.

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Alexander McQueen Gibbons De-Manta Clutch

In a sea of camel, grey and olive, injecting any personality into your fall wardrobe can prove to be quite and arduous task. Luckily, designers like Giorgio Armani, Givenchy and Alexander McQueen embraced red in their collections. This fiery hue can enliven any dull color palette. The Gibbons De-Manta Clutch debuted in the illustrious spring 2010 collection and was well received by buyers, editors and consumers. Therefore, the brand decided to make it a permanent fixture in the design house. This particular jacquard fabric was used throughout the fall collection and instantly made waves in the blogosphere, after showing in Paris last March. Personally, I love the fact that it's undeniably Alexander McQueen, with the marriage of both traditional and eerie elements. Don't let the picture deceive you. This clutch is quite sizeable and is certainly appropriate for day wear. For those of you that are less daring, the black variation is absolutely beautiful as well. Purchase directly from Alexander McQueen for a very reasonable $695. Don't pass up this opportunity to own one of the last pieces that was truly designed by Alexander McQueen himself.  

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Sang A Spring 2011 Presentation

Sang A is one of our favorite contemporary handbag designers and we were thrilled to attend the Spring 2011 Presentation, yesterday at The Plaza. Sang A and her team are so sweet and there were quite a few stunning handbags in the collection. Two designs literally took my breath away. Let's start with my personal favorite, the Wave tote. This large tote features a quilted wave panel and oversized zipper detailing. The interior padded pocket will come in handy when you need to carry your laptop or Ipad. I love the matte black python version, because it's understated and allows the design to take center stage. I was also impressed by the Cross mini duffel bag. The relaxed shape and screw hardware detailing keeps it from appearing too structured or matronly. I'm obsessed with the brushed gold satin python variation, because it makes a statement without being over the top. I've always admired the fact that Sang A doesn't use exotic skins as a crutch, but instead designs gorgeous bags that just so happen to be python. She epitomizes downtown, innovative luxury. Many thanks to Shannan for attending the show!

Please check out my guest feature in Obvious Magazine! It's a review of the Akris handbag collection, including a brand new design for fall.

Christian Louboutin Riviera Leopard Print Clutch

This bag is for all you shoe addicts out there! Designed by one of fashion's most coveted shoe designers, this Christian Louboutin clutch is crafted to mimic the designer's signature crimson-soled pump. The leopard print calf hair adorned with red leather piping is absolutely breathtaking, not to mention, on trend with the leopard craze this season, and timeless in it's style. The signature logo and gold hardware are also subtly chic, keeping focus on the beauty of the leopard print accented in red. The removable shoulder strap makes this bag a great transitional piece from day to night. 2 bags in 1! For just $1,195, you'll have an easy going cross body bag to wear with a military jacket and leather mini skirt in the day and the perfect clutch to accent your favorite little black dress at night. Purchase at Neiman Marcus and bring out your animal instincts.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

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In honor of her 25th anniversary with fashion, Naomi Campbell was pictured stuntin' on some chicks that are probably two decades her junior. But seriously, those legs! The industry vet was honored by Dolce & Gabbana on Friday night at their Madison Avenue store. As part of this year's Fashion Night Out, Campbell helped host the festivities and, of course, showed off those gams. And if some of you don't like it, you know Ms. Campbell has a phone in tow with your name on it!

Fall couture anyone? Here is a recent runway look for you to keep in mind when considering your fall wardrobe. Keep the principle in mind, but don't break the bank. A bold, two-piece set from the Armani Privé Couture Fall 2010 line:

Thank God for demure pieces that don't scream "pilgrim." You can draw attention, in a good way, with an eye-grabbing print that encompasses the entire silhouette. The key is using neutral/subtle colors and finishing things off with classic pieces, re: that bag - LOVES!

Well, October is nearly upon us. Should we give into the Halloween pumpkin-esque lip color? This shade was sported by models at the Ohne Titel show - but I question how one could make this plausible, if they even wanted to? Any lip color blendologists in the house? I have to admit though, that model on the right is making it happen. Definitely not something for the masses to bet on though.

Are you sick to death of Fashion Night Out posts by now? Well before you die of overload, check out Cassie's look at the Nicole Miller show earlier this week. Despite the one-sided disaster on her head, she definitely got it right with the ensemble.

--Danielle

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Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Papier Bag

Who can resist this Bottega Veneta masterpiece? Not only is the intrecciato papier bag breathtakingly glamorous, it is also as light as a feather. The light weight of this bag can be attributed to the fact that it is constructed with paper strips that are processed in bronze and then woven. Known for its exquisitely woven leather bags, I am ecstatic to see the creative use of paper for this Bottega Veneta bag, which still manages to retain the artistic craftsmanship of the signature weaving. This piece can be worn as a crossbody or as a medium sized clutch that is bound to make a statement. I cannot decide which hue I am more in love with, but they are both fabulous and having either one would be amazing. The green version is not yet available, but the brown variation is ready for purchase directly from Bottega Veneta for $1,450.

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Miu Miu Studded Leather Bag

It seems as though there was a secret fashion meeting this season where designers and fashion gurus alike came together and agreed to throw out all the rules! From head to toe winter white to lacy lingerie inspired clothing, the 2010 fall fashion trends are liberating us from the conservative restraints of older generations. Keeping with this fearless defiance, the transition of sparkling pieces from nighttime only looks into daytime casual ensembles is one of the most luxe and exciting trends of the season. Particularly, the introduction of studs into sportswear and oversized bags is a nice medium, appeasing both the fashion forward divas and the classic mavens of our time. This Miu Miu bag embraces the studded trend with the same head on valience of this season's fall collections! Its silver and gold embellishments along with the inverted logo on top of luxurious "soft to the touch" leather is enough to stop any passerby in their tracks! And as if all this were not enough, the true genius of the bag is unveiled from the side view, where impecably studded leather bows are attached on each side of the bag. These bows soften the exterior, giving this oversized bag just enough feminine appeal. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for $1,995. I say spoil yourself, if not for the studs, do it for the bows!

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Valentino 'Day Lace' Bow Clutch

The whimsical adornment of lace has made its way into numerous fall runway collections, such as Christian Dior and, of course, the luxurious fashion house, Dolce & Gabbana. How smart of Valentino to play off this designer trend and debut an entirely lace accessories collection featuring boots and bags?!! Although I wish Valentino used leather instead of nylon, I simply adore the 'Day Lace' Bow Clutch! The oversized bow is incredibly Parisian chic. Not to mention the fact that this bag is a perfect transition piece between seasons. The Italian craftsmanship and timeless classicism of this clutch certainly justifies the price point of $845. And nothing screams femme-fatale more than this bag paired with leather pants or a leather mini-skirt. Ladies, if ever there were a time to splurge, it would be now! Shop Valentino bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

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Reed Krakoff Boxer II Bag

For those of you whom are unaware of this relatively unknown designer, Reed Krakoff has designed for a multitude of American brands for over 20 years. He also serves as the Vice President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, which has awarded him Accessories Designer of the Year twice, for his work with Coach. My favorite piece from Krakoff's debut fall handbag collection is the Boxer II bag, mostly due to the belted detail. I love the gorgeous blue hue of the leather option, but I'm obsessed with the cognac hand-burnished alligator and grey felt version. Fabric bags made a major comeback this spring, thanks in large part to the tweed Mulberry Alexa, and I just can't get enough, especially when they're juxtaposed with an exotic skin. According to WWD Accessories, this variation retails for $6,900, while the leather adaptation is much more affordable at $1,490. My only concern is the fact that the overall design may be a bit too masculine for some women. Shop Krakoff's handbag collection at Net-a-Porter.com.   

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Nanette Lepore Metallic Fringed Hobo

The Nanette Lepore Metallic Fringed Hobo is one of those bags that you have to see in person in order to truly appreciate its beauty. It breaks all of the rules and doesn't follow any trends, yet it totally works. The ombré effect, or gradation from metallic to matte lambskin, is rocker chic and I like the fact that the fringed detailing is only hanging subtly on the sides of the bag. It definitely maintains the elegant aesthetic that we've come to expect from Nanette Lepore. The twisted shoulder strap provides a 14.5" drop, which will accommodate all women, and the large capacity will definitely come in handy. Personally, I prefer the grey version, because it's a bit more understated, but the gold will certainly suit my glam girls. Purchase at Shopbop.com for a very reasonable $475. 

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

The Emmy's kicked off the beginning of the week. The majority of the ladies looked lovely as usual but here are some of my favorites along with one DEADLY casualty of the group.

Kim Kardashian looked absolutely gorgeous in her silk chiffon Marchesa column gown with a metallic beaded neckline, accompanied with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry. I'm convinced that Kimmy can do no wrong, at least when it comes to rocking the red carpet! Of course, she really didn't have any competition since Blake Lively wasn't there. She usually dominates in Marchesa!

Eva Longoria was beautiful in a black, strapless Robert Rodriguez gown. There's not much else to say about this one. She always does well on the red carpet.

Lea Michele, from GLEE, shined in Oscar de la Renta. Paired with Lorraine Schwartz jewels and a dress that hugged her body in an OH SO PERFECT manner, Lea served it up in a major way on the red carpet.

Along with the winners, there must be one loser!! Christina Hendricks in Zac Posen....SMH!!! Something about this look just DID NOT do it for me. The color of the dress and the uncomfortable amount of BOOB-age showing were horrible. HOW DREADFUL!

People are moving and shaking! Mark Lee, formerly the chairman & CEO at Gucci, has been named CEO at Barney's New York. In other Gucci news, they just opened their new luxury digital flagship store on Gucci.com. The digital flagship store is Ipad friendly and consumers can share their favorite product pages via Facebook, Twitter and email. Talk about bringing the typical shopping experience to your home computer!

Zoe Saldana has been named the face of Calvin Klein's new underwear range, Envy. To all the teenage boys around the world: PREPARE TO ENTER PUBERTY...NOW!

It has just been reported that Betsey Johnson has defaulted on a $48.8 million loan to her company. Ironically, the jailbird known as Steve Madden has decided to step in and help Betsey out. Steve Madden Ltd. has given the eccentric designer two years to repay the loan otherwise he may assume control over the company. SAD!

Karl Lagerfeld will receive the Fashion Visionary Award. The award is given out by the Couture Council, affiliated with the Museum at FIT. Of course the luncheon is being held at the Cultural Services of the French Embassy on the Upper East Side of New York City. But don't plan on buying a ticket. Although this event is mildly priced at $1,000 a pop, tickets have been sold out for weeks.

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The Scoop on Moschino's My Secret Diary

I'm very excited that Michael has asked me to join the Bagpoor team, and since this is my first post, I thought I'd start out with a fun piece that conveys a bit of my style philosophy. I deeply appreciate timeless pieces, beautiful lines and fine craftsmanship, but when it comes to accessories, all things clever, novel, whimsical and down right fun will get my vote every time!

Some reviewers liked the elegant $625 Alexander Wang "Amber" notebook clutch better than the Moschino version, but to me, that's a bit like comparing apples and oranges. In case you're wondering what all the fuss is about, Moschino did their own inimitable take on the notebook trend, meaning the binder ring hardware on the top of clutches you'll be seeing cropping up around town this season. No matter what the reviewers may say, nothing speaks louder than box office results: the $699 Moschino Secret Diary handbag has been sold out in stores and online since early August. Sent down the runway as a nifty clutch, it turned up in online stores touted as a shoulder bag with a 22.5" strap. Turns out this bag is a bit smaller than a notebook, but its 8.75" x 6.5" dimensions have struck just the right chord among buyers. What girl doesn't secretly dream of keeping her own little black book filled with delicious secrets? Combined with the modern mystery of what's actually in a woman's handbag, this is a bag that will make you smile every time you carry it! Stay stylish handbag lovers! I'll see you back here again in a couple of weeks!

photos courtesy of Gap PRESS Accessories and Zappos Couture.

Mary Jo is an accomplished fashion designer with a keen eye for handbag construction. Her taste level is incomparable and she has one of the loveliest blogs on the Internet, Trust Your Style. We're so lucky to have her, so please give Mary Jo a warm welcome! ~Michael St. James

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Alaïa Tote

I don't know why, but every time I see an Alaïa design, it immediately conjures up memories of one of my favorite movies of all time...CLUELESS! Remember when the mugger told Cher to get on the ground and she tried to explain to him that she was wearing an Alaïa dress, and therefore getting it dirty would be a crime against humanity? #EPIC I also love Alaïa for catapulting the career of the best supermodel in the world, Naomi Campbell. Okay...enough digressing. I know that some of you are bored to tears with the ladylike bags that are all the rage this season, but I love them. Too me, this tote is the perfect Birkin alternative for women that don't have a doorman and a driver. It's nice to know that designers other than Jil Sander can achieve the ever so popular minimalist, sophisticated aesthetic. Purchase at Net-a-Porter for $2475.

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