Balenciaga isn’t sold online in stores as it is in department stores and city boutiques. But I found that a certain online retailer has authentic bags that are harder to get elsewhere - all authentic - Diabro.net (I bought a Silverado from them so far).

I may just make two more purchases this Spring and one would be a dream Balenciaga; the quilted Matelasse bag, which has elegant styling to appeal to a different kind of fashionista than the motorcycle may - like moi! It still has some signature touches (like studs and tassels), and add that plush pillow quliting, and there’s no wonder it’s IT. It’s “big”, but not too big - and roomy at 12″ x 8″ 5.5″.

The Diabro price is usually just around retail, and this goatskin satchel’s pricetag is $1,659. We’ve got to save up quick, huh?

Popularity: 7% [?]

I love the look (and feel) of python. I love it for Spring and I love it on a classy satchel. So naturally I love this python frame bag by Prada. (Pitone is Italian for python, natch.)

In tan tonal python with braided handles and a framed top, this piece of high luxury is sized 17″ l x 13″ h and more than squeezes past my budget at $2,620. This fine bag is available for pre-order now through Neiman Marcus, though not in California.

Don’t hiss and moan about the price, you have plenty of time to save up. And Californians, think about moving to Florida now - where python is plentiful and you don’t have to smuggle the goods.

Popularity: 6% [?]

Kelly Ripa here proves that with a simple & chic ensemble, black and grey look smashing with a brown bag.

What’s that bag she’s carrying? Find out after the fold. Continue to read more bag love »

Popularity: 8% [?]

It’s hard to find pictures of purses at Luella’s Fall 2007 runway show, but I found one of my favorite via In My Bag. This bag in the family of Giselle, except with side belts instead of multiple full-width ones, is a new classic and one I’m really interested in. I can’t wait for it to come out for the Fall (boo hoo), in a more affordable leather, of course, and then to hopefully go on sale. Of course, if my prediction is right, this bag will have IT status - or at least it should.

It’s a bag with classy style for anyone in a tote shape with flap, lizard skin as on the runway, and what seem like two large tassels on front. Quite yummy.

Footnote: What is that which appears on this model’s feet???

Popularity: 5% [?]

From resort right through Spring and Summer, Burberry offers a cute little (well, big) plaid check satchel with white leather trim and rope detail. Measuring 14″ x 8″ x 7″ with shoulder handles, the breezy beauty plops down on the counter with a large $890 pricetag. But it’s so worth it with the details including others such as bias check print and three outer pockets. This cute bag isn’t a practical steal, but it’s luxe and fun.

Popularity: 11% [?]

One of the spanking-new Coach silhouettes for 2007 (since the Fall, this has been a big growing time for Coach) is the Andrea Satchel in the Hamptons collection.

It’s medium-sized with a rectangular shape, contrast stitching and totally modern details. Studs, lots of stitching and great side decoration make up the style’s individual look, with tassels on one gusset and a dog-leash clip attaching the top zip closure to the bag (genius idea!).

In brass hardware, also with a brass lozenge hangtag, the Andrea comes in black, white, cognac brown and a dark olive. At 13.25″ l x 8.25″ h x 7″ w, the new favorite from Coach comes in at $598.

Popularity: 14% [?]

You may know of my long documented search for and love of bags with side belts, well, although the Paddington is more known for a grandiose lock, I’ve realized it is truly my perfect side belt bag. Thus began the sale hunt for one in brown (my dream satchel color).

I found the perfect one on eBay with a perfect 50% off price, and now it is mine, here in my home, in my hands (in my bed ;-)), in front of my eyes - mine, all mine-mine .. mine. Sighhhhhh.

She is a 2005 Chocolate Brown Medium Regular Paddington by Chloé. A long wait, a dream bag mine, and I’m so happy. Here she is for your viewing pleasure, although you can’t touch her ecstasy. Sorry!

Continue to read more bag love »

Popularity: 8% [?]

Ooooooooooooh, Dior mon amour! New Dior in new classic styles, les grande sighs!

From the new “My Dior” collection, this “Large Pockets” Satchel (which is large with pockets, not actual large pockets :-P) is an upgraded version of an old favorite. With sophisticated details, including a metal “accessory” strap cinching ruched leather, and barely a logo in sight - this bag is all design and shape (zip-top frame and pockets, all rounded Dior-lightfully!) with not a bit of tacky - all class.

Plus if you’re often worried about fitting your necessities, this bag is truly grandiose at 17″ x 14″ x 4.5″

What an amazing sight to be seen! Dior - you are one of my true, true loves!

Popularity: 9% [?]

Surprise, surprise! Or not really. I stand by my favorite new bag of the year, overall, being many others’ as well - it’s the Marc Jacobs Stam bag. From what I’ve seen, it’s been the number one copied bag of the year also, which of course gives the style votes.

It’s classic, it’s big (that has helped a lot lately), it’s unique (and recognizable), and it’s just a luxe, luxe looking bag. It has similarities to the top bag of 2005 - Fendi’s Spy - even, but this one’s all new and all Marc Jacobs.

It features a mixing of the top trends of the year with some of the most signature aspects of Marc Jacobs design, so no wonder it’s a winner. We’ve already previewed what’s on the horizon for Stams and I’m so excited!

Popularity: 7% [?]

Moving on with the holiday spirits of bags gone ugly. Our number 4 ugliest bag is the new Kathy Van Zeeland Catwalk Satchel. Kathy Van Zeeland always makes over-embellished bags, overdone so much that they’re instantly recognizable as by the brand. This particular bag has charms, studs; everything - all on a cheesy leopard-print body. It’s just ug-lay.

Popularity: 3% [?]