By Bag Snob Kelly on May 28, 2009 6:00 am Kelly Cook

Why choose between a beautiful piece of jewelry or a gorgeous bag when you can have both on a single fabulous accessory that does not cost an arm and leg?!?!  Kara Ross designs the most exquisitely crafted and affordable jewel bags I have ever seen. Last season I coveted a black python clutch hand painted in silver; this season, it’s the jeweled purple Nox python clutch ($768 upper left) with an amethyst buckle. My love of purple is beyond the fad of recent years– my 96 year old grandmother adored amethyst stones and purple orchids and I have inherited her love of this royal shade.  For Fall/Winter 2009, Kara also offers a palate of neutral hues (for those less adventurous!)– the lovely Nox taupe python clutch (above right $768) and the Nola hobo ($810 left) in taupe leather with python trim detail is timeless and chic for daily use.  For a dose of high glam, go for the Mia metallic python ($782 bottom left) with dark brown croc trim.  And I love the utilitarian chic of the Adora chocolate clutch in ostrich leg ($538 bottom right).  Utterly delicious!  The collection will hit stores in June.  Or check Kara Ross website for complete list of stores in your area!  Net-a-porter has a few must have Kara Ross clutches currently on sale here!