Grandmothers are known for sharing sage advice – they’ve seen a thing or two, so we’d be smart to listen to their wise words! But had it occurred to you to take a cue from Granny’s bag style? The answer’s probably no (unless your grandmother passed on a killer Chanel and Hermès collection, and if so, you know how lucky you are). Until now! Bags inspired by the matriarchs of the family are popping up and looking modern, cool, and, gasp!, youthfully fun. Here, my top picks that both you and Nana would surely approve of:

1) Delvaux Tempête MM Handbag: It’s all about structure – slouch isn’t ladylike! Delvaux nails it, by adding the arresting detail of side straps that wrap around the bag. And the color? Scandalous yet old-time movie-star classic.
At Barneys New York for $3,600.

2) Valentino Demetra Patent Leather Bag: Old-world innocence, and elegance, to boot. Valentino’s details make for standbys to last through generations, and nothing says “granny-chic” like a proper frame-top.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $2,245.

3) Gucci Bella Medium Top Handle Bag: We all know grannies love Gucci. This one looks fresh in champagne-metallic leather. A neat little bow attached to the signature bamboo-and-tassel detail keeps it just prim enough.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,995.

4) Fendi Chameleon Large Colorblock Satchel: Here’s to the ladies who lunch…or don’t. So gorgeous, the edgiest girl in black jeans and Jimmy Choo biker boots could carry this creamy sensation and look right-on.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $2,520 (expected to ship by May 5^th).

5) Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Tote: What’s a grandma collection without a little traditional Bottega? White says you’re pristine, and the fact that your carrying a Bottega top-handle says you know how to appreciate the quality of a classic.
On Net-a-Porter for $3,820.

6) Nina Ricci Python Liane Shoulder Bag: This is the epitome of granny-chic. The pert top-handle, fold-over design, complete with neat clasp, is so old-world. And the amazing, almost rugged python skin is so you.
Available for pre-order for $3,750 at Barneys New York.

Photo Credit: Zimbio

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Forget any old associations with the term “goth.” Once used to described alienated teenagers who wore too much Wet ‘n’ Wild black eyeliner and listened to Marilyn Manson, all that has changed. With the rise of designers like Riccardo Tisci and Haider Ackermann, as well as mysterious fashionistas like Kate Lanphear and Leigh Lezark, we’re now finding a little goth in all of us! One thing that hasn’t changed? Goths are true to the shade of black – and so are these bags, bound to get you in touch with your dark side.

1) Anya Hindmarch Patent-Leather Envelope Clutch: Goths love their high-shine PVC, as long as it’s in ebony, of course. With a faceted-crystal closure, Anya’s patent take is an approachable variation on liquidy latex.
On Net-a-Porter for $350.

2) Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity Spike-Studded Bag: Think Gothic Lolita. The plentiful spikes are totally hardcore, but the neat bow (almost hidden under all that hardware!) softens it up.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,195.

3) Paula Cademartori Stud and Crystal Caroline Shoulder Bag: This Goth might be all grown-up, but she’s still not afraid of a little pain. This structured bag might prick, but it’s worth it for the edgy-meets-polished style.
On Luisa via Roma for $2,243.

4) Thomas Blakk Soft Boombox Laser Patent-Leather Clutch: The hue might not be loud on this “Boombox” clutch, but the texture is mega-watt. We know Goths are night-crawlers, and this multi-textural gleamer is sure to catch the moonlight.
On Luisa via Roma for $1,214.

5) Bottega Veneta Breezy Hobo Bag: The name might be “Breezy,” but this bag is tough stuff. Python and leather have been rather savagely patched together to put a dark, murky spin on usually polished Bottega.
At Barneys New York for $3,900.

This bag treads the line between new-season mint and throwback vintage. Despite the retro vibe, there is something so modern about it. I wouldn’t say it’s contemporary, but this is a new bag for Yves Saint Laurent that’s clearly classic in design.

As with many of their styles, there’s only one majorly unique detail here – and that’s all it takes.Set extra-wide apart, the handles are attached at an extreme angle. Surprisingly, that’s all it takes to give new life to what’s essentially an old-fashioned bowler shape. A shoulder strap option is a logical touch on a medium-sized satchel. Since it’s such a great feature, the way the handles remain at an upward stance don’t even bother me.

The glossy, textured leather doesn’t hurt its cause either. This is no boring black bag, but I would still to see this in a color. And when I do, I just might be tempted to take the plunge – everyone can use an essential piece like this. On Ssense for $1,195.

Pair with: Black and white gets a similarly new-old revamp courtesy of Nicholas Kirkwood’s Keith Haring-inspired pumps. The print may be out of the eighties, but the look is totally 2012. Dress them down with a pair of semi-distressed, washed-out jeans and your grainy, shiny bag. Nicholas Kirkwood Keith Haring-Print Leather Stilettos, $843.

I love this brand, and I love the duo behind it – Jeffrey Parker and Tony Ta are seriously the best people in the world. The passionate designers have strong tastes with a flair for the mysterious, sharing loves for “moody colors…dark chocolate…the smell of vegetable-tanned leather…dinners in Paris…and divine decadence.” I told you they were my kind of guys! JT Italia is so different from most brands out there. Their bags are made 100% in Italy, as in, not mostly made somewhere else and finally sent to Italy for the final stitch in order to sneak in that “Made in Italy” label. And you can really see it: their meticulous attention to detail makes their bags stand out immediately. The motif of this concentric thread embroidery mixed with lurex silver pays homage to Italy, where such techniques are celebrated – because only true Italian artisans can do it.

There are special touches throughout every inch. The gussets and the seams are tucked, all four corners have luggage corners, there is an external pocket, the edges are hand painted in their signature vena red, there is cut-edge piping and has a cowl neckline. And the handles are never just a piece of leather. Along with the adjustable buckle, the attachment point wraps around a bracelet strap and affixed with talon studs. With amazing embroidery, the Rinascimento Tote (meaning the Renaissance) takes an everyday classic you can really use and turns it into a fairy-tale dream bag. It comes in many colors, but my favorites are the rich pink and the neutral tan – especially beautiful set against the intricate embroidery design. It’s lust at first sight and then love to last a lifetime.

Available at JTItalia for Spring, 860 Euros ($1130). The price is exceptional for something truly handcrafted, and did I mention 100% made in Italy? Unheard of. Sad but true.

Karl Lagerfeld is a busy man. As if it’s not enough to design a multitude of collections for Chanel every year – and somehow keeping the clothes intoxicating, the ideas innovative, and the shows inspiring – he now has just released his own diffusion line, sold exclusively on Net-a-Porter.

It’s called KARL, and the approachable brand name couldn’t be more logical. With prices ranging from just $95 to $450, this is a side of Karl we can all access. To him, it’s “fresh and relevant.” To me, his bags are relaxed and street-smart. Think more Alexander Wang than Coco Chanel.

The textured-leather shoulder bag ($405), compact with a selection of zippered pockets and a detachable strap, is made for models off-duty and biker jacket-wearing city girls. The same goes for the clutch ($270) a midnight-time version of the shoulder style. It’s as slender as the willowy young things who will likely be carrying it, so pack minimally and flaunt the bold mirrored embellishment. I can’t say these bags are unlike anything I’ve ever come across (far from it), but we’re seeing more of Karl’s edgy personal style. And when it comes to him, the man can do whatever he wants!

Pair with: Fans of the new line will also love these two-tone pumps. Black and white come together with a classical almond toe, thrown off by an asymmetrical cutout, and brazen white straps to cuff your ankles. On Net-a-Porter for $335.

I have just ONE request for my orange crush. Lately, I’ve found myself using these kinds of big, simple totes again; they’re great for just throwing things in. But can someone find a way to insert a pocket? I’m not asking for a filing cabinet here. I just want one singular pocket. That can’t be too much to ask! I know it’s unlined – and that is part of the casual appeal of a bag like this – but there has to be a way. And, yes, it comes with an attached pouch, which you know I think is a great and necessary accessory. But when it comes to storing your phone, it isn’t functional. Without a interior pocket, it basically becomes a beach bag.

Too bad everything else is as refreshing as a tall glass of fresh-squeezed juice. All I need right about now is this fabulous color, accented by a simple Givenchy logo, and, of course, one measly pocket. Then this bag would be perfect – it would make my year. At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,280.

Pair with: If you can do without the pocket, carry this pumped-up color with a crisp white loafer. Rochas‘ on-trend perforation is a hip take on a preppy staple. At Barneys New York for $850.

Two very different women, two totally varying styles. Both proving there are so many ways to wear Chanel! Always impeccable (she could put on a polyester jumpsuit and make it look chic), quintessential Chanel girl Diane Kruger maintained a sense of modern-classicism. She lightened up her fabric- and leather-heavy look, topped with extra-ornate buttons and just a peek of knee, with an easy chain-strapped mini-bag. A demure size like this tossed over the shoulder is just the thing to keep it relaxed.

On the other hand, heavy metal-loving bad girl and latest Lagerfeld muse, Alice Dellal, looked every bit her rebellious self. She and her provocatively sheer lace blouse, frayed-hem maxi-skirt, and half-shaved head are the perfect match for her new Boy Chanel bag, the collection designed for the strong-willed style crusader. Which take floats your boat?

You don’t need a significant other to appreciate a lovely bag. For me, I’m always alone on Valentine’s Day – fashion hates love so Fashion Week always lands on this day. But it doesn’t hate the colors of love! Just keep your pink bags to a minimum, in both size and quantity, so choose wisely and stick to classics. Any of these little delights will be dandy as a gift, to wear out for a romantic (or not!) evening, or just something to give yourself on the day of ardor.

Happily, this season, pinks both pale and bold are in full swing, so you won’t need to limit your wear to just Valentine’s Day. And we’ve made it easy for you. In case you need to nudge your honey with gift ideas, send him this link and don’t be shy about it. I believe in the “ask and you shall receive” method!

1) Miu Miu Mini Matelassé Leather Clutch: With its touchable, ruched matelassé leather and embellished gold frame top, this clutch reminds me of the most delectable chocolate in the box.
On Net-a-Porter for $1,150.

2) Emilio Pucci Python Shoulder Bag: This pink really goes pow! And the very Pucci swirly lining only adds to the pizzazz of this peppy shoulder bag.
On Net-a-Porter for $2,850.

3) Zagliani Python-Skin Zip Purse: It might be soft and natural on the outside, but open this present of a purse and you’ll be happily surprised by the bright pink suede lining.
At Browns Fashion for $694 (£445).

4) Proenza Schouler PS1 Python-Suede Pochette: Sometimes just a touch of blush is all you need. This time it’s not for your cheeks, but to clutch in your hands.
At Barneys New York for $1,735.

5) Givenchy Python Obsedia Minaudière Clutch: Givenchy manages to do pale pink with edge and delicacy. It’s all in the strong shape and fierce yet tasteful hardware.
At Barneys New York for $1,945.

6) Rebecca Minkoff Fling Clutch: Fling is the perfect name for this casually priced clutch. Take snake-embossed fuchsia leather out for a night on the town and use the slinky strap to wear it worry-free.
On ShopBop for $250.

7) Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Box Clutch: It doesn’t get more classic than crocodile by Nancy. You’ll be enjoying her box clutch for the next ten Valentine’s Days.
On Net-a-Porter for $850.

I’m so glad to see Zagliani doing smaller bags. I was all about them when I loved big bags and lost focus from the brand when my needs changed – suddenly monster-satchels weren’t so required.

Now I’m for packing light when I can, and minimal carrying doesn’t get better than this. This is your classic envelope with detachable chain to use as clutch, but it looks far from ordinary. This light green, magnified-scale python bag has uses you can’t imagine until you have it.

With such a sparkle to its texture, the obvious occasions are for evening, but the medium size (5” by 7″) allows day use. This is fab for dressing up a casual look, and a crossbody is your perfect accessory for shopping. Also, I attend a lot of sporting events and if you’ve ever been to a Lakers game, you know girls dress up, but I don’t want to look like I’m trying to be a basketball wife – so I wear something easy and always have a great bag that’s not too bothersome. At Browns Fashion for $1,714 (£1,100).

Pair with: Be low-maintenance and high-style with a pair of cool orange suede jeans. Current/Elliot’s faded tangerine pants are just high-low impact enough to carry such a bag. On Net-a-Porter for $885.

It is so unusual for me to fall for a bag based on a photo (much like people, bags tend to require a face-to-face meeting to know how you really feel). But in the case of this Maison du Posh clutch, it was love at first sight…or should I say bite?

Although it’s cheekily nicknamed “Bite Me,” all I want to do with this bag is carry it night after night! Done with subtlety, the Swarovski-encrusted teeth look incredibly chic, not kitsch. This is one pair of jaws I’d love to get caught in. Not only is it reasonably priced for a deluxe exotic, it’s genuinely something special.

I am always saying I need more unique bags. Not just a weird-looking, crazy bag (like Mandy Coon’s overtly kooky Bunny bag), but one that inspires and delights each time I carry it. This is it!

Available for per-order on Luisa Via Roma for $1,308 (for arrival by March 15th).

Pair with: Something elegant yet unexpected. Like this top-and-shorts set by Emilio Pucci. Matched-up outfits are all the rage right now, and this lacey confection exudes glamour. Strech-waist lace top, $1,255, and ruched lace shorts, $950.