Gucci Garcon Clutch

With barely enough room for cab fare and a credit card, the stunningly beautiful Gucci Garcon clutch is definitely more about style than function. However, I haven't seen a bag this exquisite in quite some time. As a diehard fan of the art deco glamour pulsating through the streets of New York during the roaring 20s, this clutch has my name written all over it. Does it get any more opulent than golden paneled brass, an oversized tassel, emerald Swarovski crystal accents and mahogany crocodile skin? Simply sling this clutch over your shoulder with chic cocktail separates for a perfectly postmodern Daisy Buchanan look. This is one of those designs that will certainly stand out in your wardrobe as a piece of art, a true handbag collector's item. Purchase at my favorite e-tailer, NET-A-PORTER, for $4,900.  

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Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Duo Bag

Ever since I purchased my first Bottega this fall, I've admittedly become a bit obsessed with the brand. While, I'm certainly not opposed to monogrammed bags and contemporary designs, there's something to be said for quiet sophistication and elegance. Bottega Veneta's signature intrecciato woven detailing is absolutely stunning and incredibly sumptuous. The new Duo bag is separated into two large compartments, held together by matte black chain shoulder straps, which add a youthful edge to the otherwise classic design. Purchase at Barneys New York for $2,480. 

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Proenza Schouler Tiki Clutch

On tonight's episode of Barneys Believe It or Not, we will introduce you to the world's first clutch that actually doubles as a bra. Seriously, what's going on at Proenza Schouler? This has to be one of the most over-designed bags I've ever had the displeasure of laying my eyes upon. Brightly hued stingray, white mock croc, wooden accents, the oddest crescent shape, stitched trim detailing, a tri-colored chain handle... it's as if they were competing to see who could incorporate the most tragic design elements into one hideous bag. 

If the Proenza Schouler Tiki clutch is exactly what you've been looking for, in order to complete your Halloween hula girl costume, be warned that it'll cost you a pretty penny. Purchase at Barneys New York for $2,170. Shockingly enough, Barneys has the audacity to tout that this bag is exclusively theirs. I think it's safe to say, no one else wanted it.     

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Christian Louboutin Sybil Tote

I love the fact that designers are keeping us on our toes this week. First Bally traded in their sleek leather goods for elegant romanticism, and now Christian Louboutin gave up his chic rocker edge for subtle colorblocking. Does it get any more practical than the Sybil Tote? It's the quintessential easy summer bag that goes with everything, but that certainly doesn't mean it lacks style. I absolutely adore the colorblocked exterior and, since this bag is reversible, you also have the option of wearing it as a solid leather tote. A large shoulder drop as well as wide and flat handles will certainly be beneficial when you pack this large tote to capacity. The golden hardware gives it a touch of luxury and the removable leather wristlet in Louboutin's signature red hue is a lovely bonus. Get three bags for the price of one at Barneys New York for $1495.  

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Bally Introduces Paddi and Ponga

I can appreciate the timeless sophistication of brands like Hermès and Bottega Veneta, but nothing tickles my fancy quite like femininity and romance. Suffice it to say that I was pleasantly surprised to meet the newest members of Bally's Spring collection, Paddi and Ponga. The sueded pastel green lambskin Paddi tote features a beautiful mosaic of intricate embroidery. Golden hardware abounds, including chain-link shoulder straps, the subtle Bally logo and an adorable goat charm. The Ponga clutch includes a detachable shoulder strap, perfect for elegant daytime wearability. Bally's signature goat mascot is grazing directly on the clasp. Both bags retail for $2,795 at Bally boutiques. Ouch! A girl can dream, can't she?         

        

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Sophie Hulme Colorblock Buckle Tote

Sophie Hulme is one of the hottest new handbag designers out of the UK. Her debut collection sold out five times at Selfridges this fall, and now her gorgeous designs are finally available stateside. She specializes in modern classics; handbags that speak to current trends, but will undoubtedly stand the test of time. I love subtle colorblocking, as seen on this sophisticated tote. The light neutral hues will truly go with anything, and it's sizeable enough to bring to the office. The oversized, utilitarian brass hardware is polished to perfection. Two slip pockets and a detachable crossbody strap offer added functionality. Purchase this luxurious Sophie Hulme work tote at Barneys New York for $910. Très chic! 

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Mulberry Lana Del Ray Bag

For Fall, Mulberry is continuing in their tradition of designing handbags named after style icons with the Lana Del Ray Bag. Inspired by the Old Hollywood glamour and fun spirit of the songstress, Mulberry created a top-handle that is both modern and timeless. The supple buffalo leather comes in a myriad of different hues, perfectly paired with the classic turn-lock closure and golden hardware. Initially, Mulberry didn't plan on debuting the Lana Del Ray Bag until mid-May. However, due to unprecedented interest in the design, they have decided to release it early. In fact, you can purchase this bag now at their New York, London and Singapore boutiques. The official launch is set for May 14th. Ready, set, go!    

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Victoria Beckham SS12 Handbag Collection

Is Victoria Beckham actually one of us? This Spring, the queen of all things posh finally took a long hard look at her aspirational fashion label and managed to create an accessible collection of wearable pieces. We all fell in love with her structured hourglass dresses and ladylike accessories, but it was a pleasant surprise to see her interpretation of sportswear this season. Of course, all of the glamour was still there, but it was expertly executed in a more practical manner. We complained about stubby handles on the first generation of her Victoria tote. She elongated them. We pleaded for more everyday designs. She responded with a colorblocked shoulder bag, an oversized shopper and an incredibly chic daytime clutch. The color palette focused primarily on muted yellows as well as neutral greys and a thousand shades of beige, with a few unexpected pops of bright orange. Shop the Spring collection at NET-A-PORTER. What do you think of the new understated Victoria Beckham?

      

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Barneys New York Elan Clutch

Barneys New York, without question, has the best private label out of every major U.S. department store. While I was perusing the handbags department, I came across these adorable summer clutches. The design is quite simple. It's a standard zippered pouch with a chic foldover feature, but the fun color combinations are what really stood out to me. Who could resist that striking sunny yellow or the colorblocked perfection that is the blue and white iteration, expertly accentuated with an orange tassel? My favorite, however, is the leopard printed ponyhair Elan clutch. I'd pair it with a monochromatic black ensemble as well as a red lip, and head out for a night on the town. Purchase the leather variations for $725, while the ponyhair version retails for $850.  

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Beyonce's Perrin Paris Bracelet Clutch

Last week, Beyonce took a break from her mommy duties and quite uncharacteristically shared some of her private life with all of her fans. Not only did she manage to compose her first Tweet ever, but she also updated her Tumblr with over 100 images of her recent travels. While the pictures were a bit overly stylized and too curated for my taste, I was surprised to see the one featured above. No, not because of her striking beauty or that hideous romper. I was intrigued by the fact that she's wearing a Perrin Paris bag. Although, the Ball Bag experienced a hugely successful debut, very few celebrities have actually embraced other designs from the brand. Personally, I appreciate Perrin Paris for marrying years of exceptional craftsmanship with an innovative design aesthetic. This simple and sleek black lambskin clutch is accented with a patent leather bracelet, and retails for $850 at Perrin Paris boutiques.       

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ASK BAGPOOR: Affordable Work Totes

An avid BagPoor reader sent me a request for work tote options under $800, and I figured that I should share my suggestions with all of you. As most of you know, my favorite Spring trend is color-blocking and quite a few contemporary designers have embraced bright hues. Here are a few options that won't break the bank.

1. Mary Jo Matsumoto Balboa Island Shopper, $620

2. Anya Hindmarch Nevis Tote, $995, NET-A-PORTER

3. Diane Von Furstenberg Drew Bucket Tote, $575

4. 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Bag, $795

Personally, I would opt for Mary Jo Matsumoto's shopper. Who can resist crisp white calfskin paired with turquoise snakeskin handles? It's the epitome of affordable luxury.      

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