Handbags

With spring almost here, I’m definitely lusting after a new bag! Unfortunately, I can’t splurge on a gorgeous Prada…but J.Crew has some great new styles for spring that would be a great option.

The Parlour Hobo and the Grommet Parlour Hobo are both great basic picks that work for everyday. The leather is buttery soft and has a ton of pockets in the interior to keep you organized. I’m leaning more toward the grommet version because it makes it just a little bit different and edgy.

I also adore this Beacon Hobo, which is made from nubuck leather. It has a generous and classic hobo shape with a flap turnlock closure on top. Perfect for work, you can tote around work files and that pair of heels you want to slip on at work – all while looking sleek and pulled together. I also love that you can throw this on with jeans and flats on the weekend and look equally chic and relaxed. Which one is your favorite?

Move over, Longchamp! JPK Handbags are the cutest, most colorful, and practical handbags to hit store shelves in a while! While I certainly love my Longhamp for its versatility and flexibility, JPK’s are all of the above… and more! My girlfriend Steph recently gifted me with the Bucket Nylon, which I absolutely adore for its bright pink color, gold hardware, and thick leather shoulder strap. Even more, the lining is a funky floral pattern of lavender, blue, and green. With tons of interior pockets, zippers, and snaps, you can easily organize your belongings and separate makeup, money, extra pair of underwear… who knows?

JPK’s handbags come in a wide array of colors, so you’re sure to find a black or brown staple or a color completely unique and extreme to add that extra “pop” to an outfit. Steph purchased my purse at North River Outfitter on Boston’s Charles Street, but they’re also available at Lord & Taylor and Nordstrom!

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There’s no question that Brazil has got it going on.  They have beautiful beaches, one of the most fabulous parties in the world (Carnival–I hope to go someday!), the best flip flops in my opinion (Havianas) and seem to produce  an incredible crop of Victoria’s Secret supermodels who make shedding 9 month pregnancy weight look as easy as Tiger Woods appears to acquire mistresses.

Add  Zibba (“Creativity” in indigenous Brazilian), a new handbag brand, as further evidence with unique, finely made bags that are designed and handmade in Rio de Janeiro and crafted out of fine leather.  Something versatile, but special, is the shopping mantra I use when selecting a handbag, and Zibba’s Marie handbag completely fits this criteria, with a inimitable design that won it the Independent Handbag Designer of the Year Award, as bestowed by an illustrious panel of juges including Carlos Falchi and Devi Kroell.

I love its bohemian inspired slouchy look with its softly rounded edges that gently hugs the body, with slightly exposed contrasting zippers, that give it just a bit of edge.  I’m confident that this could be my new, everyday bag–an illustrious honor of my own that hasn’t been bestowed by me since my Foley and Corinna Mid-City bag as of 2 years ago.  The true test will be how much room in the bag is left after I stow a pair of Stuartz Weitzman heels inside.

Zibba is making its US debut at Saks Fifth Avenue, and is also available in black.  Even as a US import, it’s moderately priced for a luxury handbag at $650.

I seem to be a bit bag obsessed this month and have fallen in love with yet another clutch.  Coach really has been hitting out of the park lately, and when I recently checked for their latest additions, I was totally drawn to this New Darcy clutch.  Available in a variety of colors and finishes, it’s made of extra supple leather and the gold hardware closure. I really love how classic this clutch is but comes in fun colors to make it interesting.  You could just bring this with you to a lunch with a friend, or it’s perfect for completing a date night outfit!

Available at Coach.com for $298-$498. (more…)

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This bag caught my eye when I was reading one of my favorite blogs a couple weeks ago.  I thought it was so fabulous and to my surprise, it’s by Cole Haan!

A hobo shaped purse is really timeless and effortless when done right – and Cole Haan did it right. I love the woven leather, which looks luxurious and soft to the touch.  The basket weave adds an interesting texture in an unexpected way.  The tassel pull is another detail that I adore. It’s fun but provides a chic finish to the design. Measuring 14.5 x 13.5 x 1.25″, it’s nice and roomy for your everyday needs too! Ahh…yet another bag goes on my (already long) wishlist.

Available in black, red and gray for $428 at Endless.com.