Unrequited Love

Ok. I’ve waited long enough. Shannah got to introduce you to a new brand. Now it’s time for me to take my turn, although it’s with a bit of reluctance that I do so. Let me explain:

There comes a time in every woman’s life when she buys her first bag – when her first substantial paycheck comes in and she wants to celebrate having “made it.” When that time came for me, I immediately thought of Fendi. Sophisticated! Luxurious! Bootlegged up the wazoo!

Then I thought - I want to make a statement, but I want to make it discreetly; I want to feel delightfully subtle, my bag appraised and applauded by those in the know, while being sure that no one was toting around a plastic copy bought for $10 in some back alley. So I bought Derek Lam.

Probably known more at this point for his clothes (also superb), he also makes the most fabulous bags, frequently complete with his trademark rams’ heads. He, like other Asian designers, is finally beginning to get the recognition he deserves. Just look at this Gold Python Delila Ram Clutch! It makes exotic instantly classic.

So now you know. My secret love revealed. And Derek, if you read this… I already put my number in your wallet.

Call me.

The Monkey Chased the Weasel....

Allow me to introduce the two of you: Mulberry, meet the readers. Readers, meet Mulberry. Mulberry is a British handbag and accessories brand that is insanely popular in the UK and around Europe. Their bags are simple, classic, and often resemble bags from ultra-luxury brands at somewhat more affordable prices. I've posted three of my favourite bags to give you a flavor for what the brand is all about.

First (left) is the Large Agyness, a soft goat leather bag with gold hardware and large handles. While I don't entirely love the color (I'm not really a pastel kinda gal), the shape is to die for. Great for work and play.

The Bayswater bag (center) is what originally put Mulberry on the map. It's a simple, classic bag that is perfect for work. Reminiscent of the Birkin bag at 1/10 of the price! The Bayswater is available in a variety of colors and textures, and you can even design your own!

Finally, meet Mabel (right). In addition to this lovely red, it is also available in six other colors.

Available for £795, £495, and £795, respectively. (Hint: avoid the temptation to convert to dollars)

Just Say "No on No" to MJ's Bag on Bag

Those of you who know me well know that I'm a huge fan of Marc Jacobs bags. In fact, a beautiful black and brown leather MJ bowler was my first high-end handbag purchase, and my life hasn't been quite the same since. It pains me to say this, but MJ: your bag-on-bag leather and sequin robert tote is a complete atrocity.

Let's dissect and start out on a good note: the color is lovely. The deep ruby red is enough to make any girl click together her ballet flats and declare that there's no place like home. In addition...ok, I have to stop there. I cannot think of another positive thing to say about this eyesore.

The bag-on-bag action, while trying to be edgy and fashion-forward, accomplishes nothing but making me consider joining PETA in an attempt to retroactively save the cows that were sacrificed to create it. The handle is far too short, and the sequins are glitzy enough to induce anyone into an epileptic seizure.

MJ, I'm sorry to be so hard on you. Forget trying to create new trends (although I do have to give you credit for the stam), and go back to the basics that made you famous in the first place.

Oh, and if you feel like throwing $2,650 down the drain, click here.

Runway Dior Jazzclub Flap Bag

Let me just say that I’m usually the first one to decry the use of animal prints - they’re one of the hardest things to wear in a classy way. But the “Dior Jazzclub” bag in zebra print is perfect – subtle in size, dramatic in design – to make a basic outfit POP. Of course, if you still prefer to go sans-animal print (and retain more flexibility to mix-and-match), Dior also offers it in beautiful black and heavenly white colors.

The Jazzclub is from Dior’s spring 2008 collection. Grab this baby up for $3,300 at Dior stores or at eLuxury. Granted, it might be worth waiting a season for the price to drop - but temptation is the new black (or in this case, zebra).

Carlos Falchi Matte Croc Clutch

This bag embodies three of this season's hottest trends: exotic leathers, bright colors, and the clutch. The crocodile skin is a gorgeous deep orange color that will spice up any neutral outfit. Take it for a night out on the town, carrying only the essentials: credit card, cash, ID, keys, and cell.

Buy it at Bergdorf Goodman for $1,365. Also comes in green apple and bubblegum pink.

Jas MB Ruffle Tall Shoulder Bag

What woman doesn’t want to be able to fit everything into a bag, but still have it look fabulous even when it’s empty? When a bag combines fashion and function, I say that’s a find.

So here’s my latest find: Jas MB’s Ruffle Tall Shoulder Bag. While I’m not a fan of the line in general, I do love this bag. Soft leather, with pleat detailing, and a front strap to break up the black monochrome, it’s the perfect bag to tote your things around in style.

You can pick this up at Barney’s for $495.00.

Linea Pelle Dylan Patchwork Tote

My friend Laura introduced me to the Linea Pelle brand about a year ago, and I've been loving their bags every since. Favored by celebs like Katherine Heigel, Hayden Panettiere, Tori Spelling and Jamie Lynn Sigler, Linea Pelle bags are stylish and fun, and a welcome departure from the Guccis and Pradas of the world.

The Dylan Patchwork Tote has lovely bronze hardware that is decorative without being overwhelming, a chevron patchwork pattern, and beautiful zebra lining. The bag is a great size and a perfect go to for daytime. Buy this white version for spring online at Linea Pelle for $495. Also available in black, brown, and turquoise.