Today is Christian Louboutin day! And if you think we love exotic, how do you think we feel about a Christian Louboutin exotic!! OK, so we have not been so kind and actually pretty critical of his bags but you cannot go wrong with a simple classic alligator clutch with his signature red leather lining!! To me, the fabulousness of this clutch falls in line with that of the shoe collection. Am I just loving it because it is alligator and I am on a Louboutin high? Yes, but I don't see any reason to discount the love based on those factors. It is a small (ok, mini) clutch, so it is traditional, but if you regularly attend formal affairs, you will need nothing else but this. That is the beauty of owning exotic, people expect you to keep coming out with it rather than snub you as a one trick pony. And they better because it does not come cheap, this baby is $4190 for not a lot of alligator. But it is less than his Very Prive in croc, which are $4990, and remember, shoes eventually wear out, bags, if well taken care of, do not. At Net a Porter.

Make sure to come back for the interview with Monsieur Louboutin. The story will post later today.

For the type-A organizational freaks who don't wear makeup, this is the perfect clutch for you! I always fret over the loose heap in my clutch, I have pouches and cardholders but a clutch just cannot be organized enough! Well, the meticulous Jil Sander has come up with the perfect solution. And she's assuming you neat freaks will not think to besmirch your face and bag with make up, not even even lip gloss because there is just no room for it here. Although a really flat phone will fit on the side with the strap because no one can actually go without a phone, especially those who are obsessive compulsive. Seriously, how do you obsess and compulse without a phone? And not to get nitpicky or anything but this clutch does not actually "expand", it merely just opens. It would be more useful and accommodating of at least a soft tube gloss if it did expand a little but with the croc, it is just too rigid for that. Navy croc with red leather lining (which is amazing!!). At Browns Fashion for $2670.

Chloé Ines Box Clutch $1,380/Marc Jacobs Quilted Soft Pouch $695
3.1 Philip Lim Gigi Woven Clutch $495/Marc Jacobs Quilted Oversized Pouchette $1,275

Not that you could ever tell by taking a peek inside one of my handbags, (where you are sure to find a potpourri of gum, eye shadows, Gelly Roll pens, agendas, hair pins, compacts and the list goes on) but I am actually a hyper-organized gal! I just happen to feel better knowing I have everything I may need just below my shoulder. Needless to say, I am all about toting an oversized bag!

That said, when summer rolls around I tend to shed the big bags for smaller ones. There is something about the heat that makes carrying around a handbag that weighs as much as a small suitcase, too unappealing. Which is why I am absolutely thrilled that there are so many new, bright, bold clutches. I am loving the new styles from the always fabulous Chloe, Marc Jacobs and Philip Lim. Fuschia, yellow, vermilion, scarlet, seriously, what could be more perfect for washing away the cold weather blues! Paired with a simple black or gray summer dress, a bold clutch is just right for that touch of pop – fantastique!

What about you, how do you lighten up your bagload for the summer season?

Don't just be in the spotlight, be the spotlight! This clutch gives new meaning to being "flashy". You will look like you have constant paparazzi flashing their cameras at you!! This amazing and fabulous clutch that is sure to attract fun and conversation. And honestly, I would use it to glam up a dull outfit. You can load up your stuff with this bigger sized clutch but not only that, the length is kind of necessary so that you don't block the starburst when you're carrying it. Good thing Margiela thought of that because seriously, this is a mistake I do not put past many designers. I have been rough on him and I still don't see this as a must have, practical bag but it certainly caught my eye ;-) Maison Martin Margiela Spotlight Clutch at eluxury for $995. Not a bad price for a place in the spotlight.

Summer is a great season to get away with Cheap Thrills because of all your linen/canvas options. And what better way to update your wardrobe than with a fun clutch, like this jute clutch from Ports 1961! It is simple enough to be the one go-to clutch for the whole season but is chock full of style with the contrasting patent leather trim and ebony stone detail. The natural is the obvious choice for summer but it also shows off the jute much better with a bit of contrast with the leather. The black of course is amazing as well but how often will you need a black clutch for the summer? And in jute, you really can't transition this past September (and that's pushing it too, depending on where you live). This is the perfect vacation bag, easy to pack and goes with everything. But back at home, it is easy for any casual nights out with your favorite pair of jeans or spaghetti strap dress (I only say that because you need a clutch for spaghetti straps to avoid unhinging of the whole dress). This is a quick decision purchase, $475 can take care of your summer clutch needs. At Vivre.

I saw this bag in Glamour and had to plagiarize Suze Yalof Schwartz's work (Executive Fashion Editor at Large) because you have to see this amazing clutch (plus, she said I could!). This line was created by sisters Maya and Joanna Nakhle and their clients include a long list of royalty (Queen Rania of Jordan has this clutch!), as well as Carine Roitfeld, which in this industry is considered royalty. All of their bags are adorned with semi-precious jewels, like the ebony seen in this bag. I love how it is incorporated into the design rather than it just sitting on top like how most jeweled bags are. I absolutely love this brown python but for those who are squeamish about the natural snake look, it also comes in white, black and orange (how amazing would that be???). They are still small and accommodating so can do custom orders and also very humble because their prices are crazy affordable! This clutch is only $650! Hello, can I get one in every color, please? You don't even have to be the Queen of Jordan! They have just entered the US market (which means, get this at a bargain while you can) and are available at Tracey Ross in LA, Printemps in Paris, Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong and Podium in Russia (any Russian readers out there?). You can also email them for specific ordering info.

Photo courtesy of Jalda. Jump for more!

Some bags are just meant to be looked at and enjoyed as wearable art, with no functionality whatsoever. This is the case with the stunning shagreen and brass minaudiere from R & Y Augousti. It looks like something Daisy from "The Great Gatsby" would have carried--completely useless, but oh, so pretty. I was immediately captivated when I saw it; the art deco chevron pattern shows off the two very different materials, which you would never think of putting together. The contrast of smooth, shiny brass, next to pebbly, grainy shagreen is quite sensual and exotic. I would enjoy holding this just for the texture! Of course with it being 1-inch thick, you will only be able to bring cash and a tube of lipgloss, but sometimes form rules over function, and you just have to give in to frivolousness (especially at this price)! I would actually leave this out on my table as a decorative piece, so that I can enjoy it daily. R & Y Augousti Antique Shagreen Minaudiere $375 at Vivre.

I am actually quite surprised that this Lacroix is so subdued, to me I associate Lacroix with crazy Edina from Absolutely Fabulous. Everyone is doing the woven leather, but this weave is big and bold (ok, so there is boldness) which makes it mui caliente (it means "hot" but I try to avoid sounding like, you know who). It is on a vinyl frame with a nifty little clasp. The contrast of the leather and vinyl is very architectural to me somehow, like furniture almost, and I likey!!! A great piece for all your needs and is a normal size for you traditionalists who still want a modest little clutch with your very immodest little dress =) And like your sexy lingerie, the lining is a daring bright red satin! This is definitely for someone who has a secret life behind that goodie goodie exterior. At Net a Porter for $961.

Bag Designer Jennifer Alfano has been a very busy girl lately! Gracing the pages of several magazines, including April's Bazaar (she once was an editor there along with Thakoon) where her golden hued python Karina bag ($1,995) was featured as one of the best accessories for spring. But the Bag Snobs didn't need a magazine to tell us her bags are smoking hot--we knew it from the minute we laid eyes on them! We first discovered Jennifer through our friends Sari and Dawn over a year ago and loved her from the very first velvet sueded python clutch we saw! I had lunch with Jennifer at Balthazar last summer and discovered she loves to eat as much as I do, and our sisterhood was sealed right there and then over sumptuous fois gras and multiple delectable desserts. Now before you go running to the fridge for a snack, let me tell you about her latest bags!

Karina bag in Natural Golden Python Bag - $1,995- 11.5"x7.5" at Lux Couture

Dear Bag Snob,

I'm a little embarrassed to ask, but I think most of us out here have the same question: What the heck goes in a clutch these days?! I'm not talking about the clutch you carry with your LBD. That's easy: cash, a credit card and lipstick! I'm talking about the oversized clutches for day that are everywhere now! Many of them are still envelope slim, though flexible. But what gives? Are there special wallets or card holders we need for these? I have a basic black leather oversize clutch with circle die cut-outs, and a red shiny alligator oversized envelope clutch. Love them both, but still am at a loss of how to use them on a normal workday. Does this look require an additional tote?

Thanks for your help!

Melissa

Do you ever wonder about the personalities of bag designers when you fall in love with one of their bags? I feel like I know the designers we interview before I even meet them because through their bags, I have gotten a glimpse of their personality. This was the case when we met Devi Kroell two months ago in New York (we'll have her complete interview/profile up soon!). Kelly and I marveled at one of the bags at her showroom and when we turned it inside out, each seam was tightly stitched and perfect! Not many bags can boast beautiful interiors that rival the exterior. From studying her bags, which are so exquisitely made, I knew she was a woman who paid attention to details. When you meet Kroell in person, she is exceedingly gracious and kind. And yes, she was meticulously put together, but in an unconscious and effortless way. A true Bag Snob at heart (her mother used a crocodile bag as her diaper bag!), Devi demands the very best for her bags. From exotic skin clutches to slouchy leather totes, Devi Kroell is a modern bag designer in her own class. We love the Carlyle Python clutch, not only for the fabulous metallic python skin, but also for the beautifully delicate petal chain strap that may be tucked in or left out. Open it to reveal satin lining fit for a princess. Now that's perfection! See Devi Kroell Carlyle python clutch here, $1,390.

Exotics- Don't be stashing that python/ostrich/crocodile bag just yet. Exotics are hotter than ever and with prices rising faster than crude oil, you better recycle all the exotics in your closet! Extra hot are exotics in bright colors!

Juicy bold color is the theme of the day! I adore the Jade clutches from Sang A and have them in multiple colors. They are so practical (or as practical as a clutch can be!) and easy to use. Soft and roomy (14" x 4.5"), the clasps open easily to a huge interior (lined in suede) so you can stuff as much in there as you'd like yet still look ladylike. Sang A uses gorgeous skins in mouth watering vibrant colors this season which make the Jade clutches so irresistible! I love them all and find it hard to choose so when I was in New York last month, I picked up several new colors (I visit Sang A at her showroom whenever I am in town, we are like littlegirls together and do not stop giggling from the moment we see each other until I reluctantly leave!). They are the go anywhere do anything clutch! Plus they are lightweight and pack really well, nice and flat and won't lose its shape, I love traveling with them! I will be in Paris for a month this summer and plan to bring all of my Jade clutches. What could be more fabulous than a bright yellow ostrich or an electric blue python clutch with my many white dresses?
Sang A Jade in Python - $1,675 at Vivre.com
Sang A Jade in Yellow Ostrich- $2215 at Vivre.com

We first read about Katherine Kwei in Vogue a year and half ago and though intrigued by her use of traditional Chinese hand knotting in her bags, we were not fans (what can I say, we're a tough audience). The eternity knotting reminded me of kitschy things sold on street corners in Taiwan and Hong Kong when I was growing up and all the long fringes are just too busy and well, fringe-y on a big bag. It also didn't seem very functional (I can just imagine it catching on anything and everything during my frantic days of running around town!). After seeing the latest clutches from Kwei, however, I am finally warming up to her quirky bags. The new clutches are small and cute, and even with the fringe and knotting, it works (because they are small and not cumbersome). And considering her extensive background in fashion and design (Louis Vuitton, Zac Posen, master's degree from London College of Fashion) I am confident she will continue to grow as a bag designer and wow us with unique and whimsical designs. Donna Knotted Watersnake Clutch $1,005 at Neiman Marcus. What do you guys think? Snob or Slob?

Hello Spring! It is time to get your spring time clutch. Every season requires a clutch and what more appropriate for the season than a beloved butterfly on our favorite Bottega pyramid clutch in the ultimate of neutrals, bone. I love this color, I considered getting this color in another bag because it is just so perfectly neutral but crisp and surprisingly hides dirt fairly well (I said fairly well, not super well so you still have to be careful). The stark Bottega white is totally out for me, it is a bit binding because it is so white and all I can think about is the yellowish dirt that will appear on the handle where your little grubby hands go. I love that the butterfly is big and spans the entire bag but it is on the back. This clutch is the perfect size for day because it has girth to hold your entire wallet, phone and a camera. The only thing I would think twice about though is the difficulty in holding this clutch. Your hand has to grab the bottom and it is not flat so doesn't go under your arms comfortably. You also can't told it from the top by pinching it with your fingers because it is too thick. This was a problem for me but other than that, it's great! =) At Net a Porter for $770.

This fun coin purse or what I call a clutch pouch is what everyone needs when using their favorite clutch. I talked about the floating cards and bills in clutches yesterday and this is the perfect solution for that. I used to use a card holder for my cards, but what about the money? You put it in the zip pocket (if there is one) but it still has a good chance of falling out. And is not the most organized. This pouch does not have card slots, it is like an envelope but it is big enough for all your cards and a pretty good size wad of cash (plus it holds coins which causes problems in a clutch). It makes using your clutch a totally streamlined operation. These come plain without the YSL Paris flagship address but I just find it so kitchy and cute because it is shaped like an envelope. It is $195 and comes in anthracite (which I got), black and metallic gold. There is a larger size but it will be too big for traditional size clutches (those are $245). This is only available this season and they are selling out fast so if you want one call Fatima at YSL Rodeo Dr. 310-271-4110.

Photo courtesy of Elle.com

For a true Chanel lover who wants interesting pieces that will sure to please when you sell your entire hangbag collection at Sotheby's in the future. The price is a bit steep for what is essentially plastic, it is $6595 but it's cut like a giant diamond so how completely fabulous is that? I don't see how that justifies the price though, I wasn't actually trying to be rational =) This is definitely a special piece for those occasions where attention must all be on you! Like the red carpet, but be careful what you put in there. I would suggest having everything neatly placed in a coin purse cuz you don't want cards and bills floating around in there. In fact, I just got he cutest little pouch from YSL that I will feature tomorrow. But back to this clutch, it is worthy because it is so Chanel and so much of what Coco stood for. She was always ahead of her time and was famous for costume jewelry, so what better than a clutch made of high tech material that is like a piece of jewelry? It is elegant and understated and ultimately uniquely Chanel. It is currently available at Chanel boutiques, call Alexis at 214-520-1055.

I am all about the Doheny clutch from Oscar lately. My white one in crackled patent leather is lightweight and easy to use- especially the magnetic flap which allows me to get in and out of my bag effortlessly, I find myself constantly grabbing it before I head out for lunch or dinner! It's so liberating to have a big ol' clutch to hold my PDA cell, camera (you never know when I need a shot for Bag Snob), wallet, make up bag, etc etc. I just love the silhouette of an oversized clutch with a suit or jeans in the day or with a cocktail dress in the evening, it's an unexpected proportion that looks modern and stylish. You have no idea how often I am stopped by passing strangers who ask "who made that clutch!?!??" The Doheny is free of logo but heavy on style, in other words, simply chic! I was in the Oscar boutique the other day (my new home away from home- there are eight boutiques in the US, you must go to one near you. Just hang out like I do and play with all the clothes, bags, shoes, jewels and home accessories- I promise you will become addicted!) and saw the latest incarnations of the Doheny- named after a street in LA when the Melrose boutique opened. For Summer, the Doheny gets punched up in a juicy orange ostrich ($3,495) and a stucco crackled patent leather ($995), both are great colors to add to your bag wardrobe. I am partial to the nude "stucco" shade, it's the perfect complement to the bright blue Oscar bubble dress I am currently obsessed with. Spring ready to wear is all about bold fun color and you'll need a neutral to set it all off! Call Mindy at 214-346-0400 to order. More photos after the jump!

LAST CHANCE TO SIGN UP TO WIN!!!

It's red carpet season (or so we hope) so we thought we'd give you your own red carpet moment with this minaudiere hand set with Swarovski crystals from Kotur as our February giveaway. The Astier D'Abo has a retail value of $1318 and will be something you cherish and use for life. Everyone needs something like this in their closet for that swanky occasion and knock them dead gown. We love the infusion of exotic influences Fiona Kotur brings to her bags. Her travels have inspired her and her bags in turn have inspired us to get creative with our own wardrobes. Her bags have been spotted on big name celebrities like Renee Zellweger, Gwyneth Paltrow and Tory Burch (you know you're doing something right when your following includes other designers).

To enter, simply sign up for our weekly newsletter. If you are having trouble or have any questions please email me. The last day to enter is February 29th at 11:59 EST. We will pick one lucky winner through a random drawing of all entrants on March 1st and announce the winner by March 7th. One entry per person and US residents only, please. Good luck everyone!

A great big thanks to Kotur for sponsoring this sweepstakes!

ENTER NOW!!!

I know I said you shouldn't (and I certainly don't) buy bags to coordinate with Valentine's Day but I do love pink and there are lots of these bags out there so I thought that I should feature at least one cute bag that is acceptable for every other day of the year. This satin clutch with tulle camellia from the Chanel Cruise collection is absolutely adorable and lady-like and can be a mainstay in your closet for date night or now that it is almost spring, this would be delightful with a flouncy summery dress. This is a clutch but as you can see it comes with a little wristlet length strap which makes it extra cute when you carry it on your perfectly manicured fingers. I had to include the shoes in this picture, but I am not going to comment on them because it is too much coordination with the bag and without the bag, you would have a hard time matching it without trying too hard. And I just don't like them. The bag is $2995, call Alexis at Chanel at 214-520-1055 for more information.