Ooh, Ra Ra! This Silver Tasseled Satchel by Anthropologie makes me want to cheer with school spirit. As a full-load college student, my current tote is ready to drop out. But this genuine leather bag is sure to be sturdy, and in a crackled tan, it has an already broken-in feel. Style-wise, it’s satisfactory, but I do especially like those side buckled belts (major in class, right now). And I like that it definitely gives off a graduated vibe. Will it pass the true test of toting-time? It works hard with 2 front “cargo” pockets, an outside zipped “pouch”—inside; 2 accessory pouches and a zippered pocket. At 14″ x 11.5″ x 4″, it’s my book-&-essentials lugging dream! But at its near-$300 price tag, it may remain just that without some “financial aid.” I’ve added it to my Birthday List on Kiss Me, Stace, so maybe I’ll get a gift certificate to help me wake up and get going!

Popularity: 8% [?]

This Marc Jacobs leather frame bag is being toted by Net-a-Porter as one of fall’s biggest IT bags. Sounds like a lot of trumped-up talk over a simple–elegant and classy–but still relatively basic bag. The frame satchel-shaped bag is quite lovely, but it isn’t as ornate as I’d expect of something with such coined-praise (aside from the symmetrical horizontal piping). The word hasn’t gotten out, either; I haven’t seen this bag elsewhere. That doesn’t mean, with its hand-braided leather strap and gold hardware, it’s not worth the $1,350 price tag (if any bag is, I mean). Certainly the trendy teal could raise its appeal. And it’s also not to say I don’t like its subtly refined design. Also available in luxe, professional black; it could be a business-woman’s bag at its perfect size.

Popularity: 3% [?]

In my inbox, I received news from Dooney & Bourke that, “Tartan arrives and a Star is born.” Very interesting! But what outshone the actual bag designs was the Star posing with the Small Barrel Bag; Dooney’s new spokesmodel, Michelle Trachtenburg of “Buffy” fame. She looks glimmering in the photo (as you can see here).

About the new bags, Tartan is a very exciting prospect for this nerd-chic girl. The plaid is almost Burberry-esque, at first glance. But please support the original design master, in this case, especially.

The Stars collection is something I’d seen floating around eBay, and thought might be bad fakes–with their cartoonish similarities to Hearts. But they’re actually somewhat better than the Hearts print bags.

Technorati Watch: Michelle Trachtenburg + Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Popularity: 19% [?]

Look:
- Rich, deep browns, bordeaux, purples, beet red, even dark teal and veggie green, on occasion.

These Autumn tones bring color to my cheeks!

Touch:
- Of course, rich leather and suede, but also a continuation of the designer denim bag trend.
- Dorky bags for those indie chic girls, as well as designer desirers. We’re talking plaid, tweed, & houndstooth.
- “Softer” metal studs in subtler patterns. Golden hardware.
- Velvet!
- Textures like quilting, elegant studs, embroidery, and those fabrics listed above. Extravagance in soft, natural materials, such as hair-calf.

I know it’s Fall, but we’re heating up in style!

Feel:

- Sizable Satchels really get me going, right now. The rounder shape, the better. Hobos are lookin’ good, too, but they tend to lack the size (and pocket space!) of satchels.

Ooh! Dangerous curves ahead!

Move:
- As in “move on with the times, fad.” Well, I *officially* intend it to represent line dancing and horseback riding: Oh, yes, western-influenced accessories will be around, but not overwhelmingly so. Give me a Dior saddle bag, instead, I say! That’s a style I can get aboard. Ride ‘em, cowboy!

Grow:
- Does size matter? That is the everlasting question with no solid answer. But this season, bigger bags are slightly hotter. They just get the job done.

Sweating yet? Enough talk about style, pick your informed favorite, and get shopping!

Popularity: 3% [?]

I love Isabella Fiore, the design team is the most colorful and fun, and styles true shapeliness into their bags. The detail on this “Gathered Tote” (or ruched hobo, I’d say) is exquisite. Luscious suede trimmed in scalloped leather. Golden hardware includes square buckle on top flap that contrasts with the round double rings on shoulder strap. If all that weren’t enough, there’s a zipper line along each side. In green or pink at $365 for a surprisingly roomy, stunning bag.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Chloé, Balenciaga, Luella locked in your heart? Well, for some of us, the It Bags, are just too It. I like to see a little variety in my designer. For Autumn ‘05, Luella has mixed things up a bit.

Here’s Suzy.

She’s a toned town version of Luella’s signature It style. With just a single horizontal strap and tasty and tasteful colors, she’s a matured creation by the hot brand. For good measure, the bags still have heart tags and a hanging keylock.

Luella has her style all locked up, but hasn’t thrown away the key. Check out even more varied handbags at Bergdorf Goodman.

Via Purseuing

Popularity: 5% [?]

A wristlet is versatile and extremely tote-able. A girl can use one as a wallet, as a low-key night-out bag, or when she simply doesn’t want to be weighed down. But with designer styles comes high prices. Let’s turn to eBay!

Fun color, print & extra style:
- Coach Signature Scarf Wristlet & Butterfly Keyfob (Sept. 11)

Stately Dooney & Bourke, in preppy tan & roomy size:
- Dooney & Bourke Anniversary Mini Signature Flap Wristlet (Sept. 7)

For a night out or a hot date:
- Liz Claiborne Beaded Coral Paisley Framed Clutch (Sept. 11)

Sweet & Girly:
- Maggi B Charming Bow Wristlet (Sept. 9)

For ultimate glam down to a friday-casual lunch:
- Coach Occasion Optic Signature Sparkling Framed Wristlet (Sept. 6)

Popularity: 3% [?]