Tweed is the new cool. It’s no longer for librarians, but perhaps for chic school girls, whom like to study and shop; drink a cocktail with the girls, and write her own grade-A essays, learn chemistry and experiment on boys–no, men.

Maturity is sophistication, and it’s a growing trend. But this tweed (or bouclé) appeal has roots deeper than that. If you put on your (face-flattering, of course) eyeglasses and examine a true designer bag weaved with wool and threads (including subtle shimmering threads for this Coach bag), you’ll see the beauty and intricacy.

Yes, this COACH Chelsea Bouclé Demi embodies everything one might desire in a tweed accessory, or any designer handbag, perhaps? Each bag, due to the handmade crafting, is unique. With my perfectionist predilection, I found my absolute perfect dream bag. In my new fall bag, the bolder orange “stripes” are aligned in an even, balanced manner. It speaks to my symmetrical eye.

There are more details, of course, including trimmings of leather and soft suede. Two brass buckle rings wrap in a leather strapped flap. And along the edge of the classic Coach reinforced edges, is golden piping.

You should be aware that the online store’s photo is incorrect. The strap is simpler, with a one-side dog leash clip. I suspect with that design removal, is when they added the sparkling threading. My calculations say it is quite worth it.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Dooney & Bourke has a new collection, Signature “Quilt.” Yes, the name actually includes quotation marks, because the quilting is really just a flat pattern. It’s not completely ugly, though, in fact it’s a bit cute. But it doesn’t say quality, when competitors have actual, lush quilting on their bags. That being said, I’m not a fan of that, “old lady look,” and I kind of prefer the Dooney, in a way. This small hobo is attractive, and I love a detailed strap.

Popularity: 14% [?]

50 square feet of Heaven - or just plain, the Coach store - allowed me to examine the bags more fully for this post, which discusses my personal favorites and runners-up for my new fall bag. (I should hire my own choir for trips to COACH.)

It’s been more hard work that was both agonizing and exhilarating. Mostly agonizing - I want, want, want. Enough complaining, and on to the list.

Soho Suede Demi Flap

In a lot of these fall bags is the new strap style of double-intermittent rings. De-lic-ious. They compliment the flap strap buckle very well, but mostly, I love a little extra design intricacy. Designers should design!

Some of these bags also have a new inner pocket set-up. There’s the standard security-zip, one slightly larger multi-function pocket, and the back lining has one really large pocket. Yumness! Continue to read more bag love »

Popularity: 3% [?]

I’ve been scouring eBay this whole week, and have found goldmines for you. I also poured over authenticity, and have learned a lot. (I cannot officially endorse any of these bags, though.)

The most beautiful item is by independent designer, Mary Frances, whom won Accessory Designer of the Year from the Dallas Fashion Awards. And for good reason; this tweed Coquette clutch is the most stunning I’ve seen in my pursuits!

- Chanel Tweed Bag
- The Original Dior Saddle Bag
- Coach Patchwork Hobo
- Isabella Fiore Handbag
- Mary Frances Coquette

Popularity: 3% [?]

I love Isabella Fiore for their playful, creative use of color and texture. They use bold accents and daring details. I could go on and on. My favorite handbag of theirs, this past season, sold out quickly from stores. Finally, there are new items for Fall. I like this whimsical Ruched Hobo with charms. Check it and the rest of her collection out; you’ll gawk and stare as minutes tick by. The design distinction never ends.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Kate Spade is like the independent designer who made a name for herself. Some of her styles are so boutique-homemade-like. This bag, the Topsy, I really like. It has a lovely designed-shape in soft sateen natural-toned cotton with an earthy coral-branch design and matching colored leather trim. The roomy summer tote is on sale at Nordstrom, down from nearly $300 to under $147. I also noticed a pink bag going on eBay, as an authentic, it’s a steal.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Kiss & Tell, Pursed*Lips’ own newsletter has just started taking subscribers. Coming soon, will be two separate-yet-joint e-mails from us and Kiss Me, Stace, tieing in with similar Autumn-trend blog entries! What a way to kick things off.

The tiny signup form is to the right.

Popularity: 2% [?]

What do college-bound fashionistas need? A school tote that’s practical, stylish, cheap and yes, stepping into sophistication. This Liz Claiborne tote says all-that-and-a-bag-of-books. Any lady on-the-go can use this bag’s nifty little features: three inner compartments and plenty-o-pockets. Oh, did I mention, “cheap”? This “Hot Commodity” is on sale for $59.99.

Popularity: 10% [?]

In my attempt to not over-post about Coach, I was late in discovering everything their new fall line has to offer. But on a trip to the mall (amazing summer shoe sales) I happened upon fabulous new Coach’s. My addiction headquarters - the Coach store - allowed me to examine many bags.

I’ve been hard, hard, hard at work compiling this list of notables, for weeks! Here are the top, newest bags, (at least) one from each classic Coach style section.

Hamptons Weekend

Signature Scarf Print Tote

Finally, a new color palette and new styles for Coach’s luxe scarf print. The bags are soft and sophisticated. This mixture of brown and pink is lovely. Each new bag in Hamptons Weekend comes with free pom-pom and tassel decorations.

Continue to read more bag love »

Popularity: 6% [?]

In the new Talbots’ accessories store is a great fall collection of quality handbags. I was pleased by both style and price.

Signature jacquard handbag

Brushed silver toned hardware. Double handles, top zippers, inside slip and zip pockets. Colored leather strapping. Fully lined. 13″ x 4″ x 9 1/4″. $78.00. (Colors: rose, green, black.)

With its price, it’s a great designer alternative, and stylish to tote to your office.

Tumbled-leather bag

Double handles, top zippers, inside slip and zip pockets. Fully lined. 13″ x 4″ x 9 1/4″. $128.00 (Colors: black, red, green, sienna.)

This all-leather bag is still less expensive than a designer-name. It’s perfect for the sophisticated woman to carry anywhere.

Popularity: 3% [?]