So luxe and drool-worthy from Banana Republic is this Tangiers Macramé Shoulder Bag. I couldn’t describe it better than, “interwoven loops add extreme texture,” because this bag practically leaves me speechless. I can’t get over the fine-crafted detail, and it’s even more stunning in person, with completely unique, spiky weaves. What a treasure. Even the strap is gorgeous, in braided leather. Who knew something so divinely designed could come from macramé (made from 100% cotton!), and even Banana Republic? Who needs expensive designer leather bags, and who really needs the cheaper straw? With a bag this fine, what I truly can’t believe is the price: only $148!

I could fall over right now.

In “chalk” (off-white) at Banana Republic.com and still in stores is the brown, which is more subtle and sensible. (I don’t think this one will last ’til the sales!)

Popularity: 3% [?]

After taking a few days off work a couple weeks ago, I came back to a pile of work and I spent last week working overtime trying to meet my deadlines—hmm, I guess that’s what I get for taking a vacation, right?! At least, that’s what one of my coworkers told me.

Even though my vacation’s over, I can still carry a purse that makes me remember the carefree feeling of having a few days away from work and the regular day-to-day responsibilities. The Idylwilde bag by Kate Spade is one of those bags, which is appropriate considering it’s named after a California mountain town which as the web site states is “dotted with quaint lodges and classic resorts.”

Available for $255, the cabbage roses and color combo on this cotton canvas purse radiate spring and summer, so now is the perfect time to pick it up. The shape of this bag, called the thea, is a new style in Kate Spade’s spring collection, so if you happen to like the shape, but prefer different colors, make sure to check out the entire thea line.

Now, how many more weeks until my next vacation?!

Popularity: 1% [?]

On the plane ride down to my last visit to Florida, I designed this bag. It is my perfect rendition of my dream double side belts/straps bag. Please click on the sketch to get a larger image with written descriptions (encouraged).

What I could someday do is get this bag made through a service, like Manolucci Custom Bags.

Even now, there’s great news. While there, I went to the Boca Town Center mall and was fervently preparing to drop a lot of cash for the preferred customer sale, when, near the end—I just barely glimpsed this bag in their catalog: a satchel with side belts with Soho buckles! It’s large with no (*fave*) brown leather version, but no matter! I took a chance to preorder the black! It happened almost like fate (with my mother swooping in to buy her own bag and help with cash.)

Since it arrived, I’ve loved this bag! (Of course, I’ve had some other new things to occupy my time, as well. 0;-)) But this bag looks so much better once owned. It slouches so beautifully, and now those store pictures can’t compare to the beauty that is my real-true-my bag.

I did preorder and it wasn’t in stores for some days since. And now I’m showing it to you: the Soho Leather Zip Satchel. Available in White or Black leather for $358 or Sand Pebbled Leather for slightly more at $398.

Realizing a dream and ending one manic search (plus adding in the bag in question being from my favorite design brand with Soho-recognizable buckles, and has great details—even the back) makes that cost priceless.

Popularity: 2% [?]

See how nice this Louis Vuitton bag is that Jessica Simpson is carrying? I’ve definitely—and boldly—made it clear how I feel about Marc Jacobs’s design efforts with the brand, but this bag is nice. I do like the pointed leather straps details many bags have—it’s a signature (and they should all have it).

And sure, this is a very expensive version that Jessica Simpson can afford, I get that … but this LV is so much nicer than the ones I see you carrying at the mall. I’m watching you.

Popularity: 4% [?]

If you’re the type of girl who loves unique purses, look no further than this clutch by Hayden-Harnett. It’s certainly different than what I first picture when I think of a clutch, but that’s what makes it so cool! Measuring 12″ l x 9.5″ h x 2.5″ d, it’s part of the MERCER garment washed collection and it’s available for $253. Wear it on your shoulder with the hinged leather strap, or hide the strap and carry it by the chic belted handle—how adorable!

If you tend not to like clutches because they don’t hold enough for you, this clutch includes pockets for your cell phone and iPod—no more trying to squeeze your necessities into an itsy-bitsy compartment!

Popularity: 2% [?]

If you like the popularity of straw this spring, but have yet to pick up a piece because all the purses you like have been a tad too expensive (myself included), take a look at this straw makeup bag by Banana Republic. It’s only $32! Measuring 4.5″ l x 5.5″ h x 2.5″ d, it’s the perfect piece to buy to carry in your larger purses. My favorite part is that the monogram lining is water- and stain-resistant—that’s a must for any bag claiming to be made to handle makeup! Plus, even if you don’t want to use it for makeup, it would make an adorable coin purse!

Popularity: 3% [?]

When I stumbled upon this leather satchel by DKNY, I couldn’t help but think of a new purse my mom got for vacation. She purchased a Maxx New York wristlet; it’s made from twill, measures 9.5″ l x 4.5″ h and has a single strap. She’d been carrying the same purse for several months and wanted something new.

While there are a lot of differences between the two purses, the rectangular shapes are similar. This satchel measures 13.5″ l x 5.75″ h x 2″ d, features a single strap and has two front exterior pockets with leather zipper pulls; it’s also available in either white or tan. Buy yours for $168.95.

Popularity: 1% [?]

This shoulder bag by Kate Spade reminds me that sometimes you need to get closer so you can appreciate the finer details. When I first got a peek at this bag, I wasn’t overly impressed. It was nice, but just okay. Then I zoomed in and got a look at the fabric—pink metallic cotton, which only looks pink from a distance but get close, and it appears there’s fine bits of spun gold woven throughout.

The cotton braided strap is a beautiful finishing touch, continuing with the same pink/metallic gold colors and accented by metallic gold leather. Measuring 10.5″ l x 6.5″ h x 5″ d, you can get your own purse of fine gold for $275.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Our very own Ella is hosting this week’s Carnivale at Kiss Me, Stace and she posed the question: What is your fashion confession, either a long ago faux pas, or today’s guilty pleasure?

Now, just remember what I’m about to confess occurred when I was a little girl and I didn’t know any better. Before I learned the difference between a hobo and a satchel, before I knew that splurging on a fine leather purse was definitely worth it, I owned a purse shaped like a tennis shoe. Yes, a tennis shoe—it’s horrifying for me to think about, but I will admit it’s the truth.

It was brightly colored with laces that actually tied; it had a zipper along the side and an incredibly long strap. It was a purse that if I saw it today, I would be one of the first to say what a horrible design it was. Gratefully, it was thrown away several years ago never to be seen again!

Popularity: 2% [?]

Even though summer is featured on Free People’s web site, the color of this Ruched Sack Bag reminds me of autumn, which is a season I’m not ready to enter yet, considering it’s still cool in the midwest. Regardless, I do think the floral lining is perfect for May flowers! But, what I really like about this canvas hobo is its slouchy shape, which gives the bag a very casual, relaxed feel and the distressed leather handles only add to that feel. Plus, at only $58, it’s difficult to pass up!

Popularity: 1% [?]