NET-A-PORTER now has the newest FASHION TARGETS BREAST CANCER (FTBC) exclusives, so you can look fabulous all summer and feel even better knowing that all net proceeds from the sale of the products will benefit local breast cancer charities around the world. These latest items are part of the global partnership with The Council of Fashion Designers of America/CFDA Foundation Inc. Check them out, they are perfect for the hot weather right now. Love the DvF dress!!

Diane von Furstenberg Tuvallu jersey dress $355;

I think one of the biggest debates here at Bag Snob is Louis Vuitton: to buy it, or not? There are the die hards who will never give up their collection of LV bags and who will buy whatever the brand serves up. The former fans (like myself) who will keep their set of vintage luggage from the '70s and the LV bags collected throughout the years but will not invest any more time or money on the trendy bags of late. And then there are those who consider its recent collaborations with Marc Jacobs as the whoring out of the classic label and brand. Which one are you? Let me know because I am off to a Blogger Breakfast with Louis Vuitton's CEO of North America. (Thanks to Lesley of Fashiontribes for the introduction!) I am very interested in what he has to say about the brand and how it will continue its exclusive appeal considering it's mass global campaign. Stay tuned!

UPDATE: Just got back from the breakfast. It was an eye opener to say the least. (Read more after the jump!)

I was at the Christian Louboutin personal appearance at Barneys in Beverly Hills yesterday. What can I say? I was starstruck and giddy to meet the man who took women with a simple shoe fetish and turned it into a cult following. You can image what the scene was like at Barneys with his most devout in frenetic worship mode, shopping like it was a 90% off sale. Well, it was full price and it was to get his signature heart signature on those signature red soles. If there was one day in my life when I felt lucky to have giant feet, it was today because I had no trouble getting everything in my size (40, thank you very much). The other regular sized feet gal there, including my friend Cindy who is a 38, had no luck because everything was sold out. They were all frantically searching and trying on, willing to get anything in their size. A girl next to me bought the very unpractical Anemone stiletto pumps with a giant bow in the back as a last resort (she had a hard time walking in them). I happily brought home two gorgeous pairs that makes me feel fiery hot and sexy just knowing I have them: Marilou woven sandals ($870) in pewter and the City Girl slingback platforms ($795) in luggage.

How Chanel obsessed are you? Enough to get a Chanel bike? This uber chic bike can be yours for $13,595 and there are only 3 left! It, of course, comes with its own bag for your trinkets and ice cream money. Look at the quilted chain guard! I doubt you'll ever find anything as sophisticated on your Schwinn beach cruiser. It really does have all the Chanel design features which makes this a viable purchase, if you need a new bike. Can you imagine riding down the beach with this thing? Or how about riding this through Beverly Hills or Fifth Ave? OK, yes, you would be a total freak and you would one-up those loony ladies who walk around Neiman Marcus just to show off their latest plastic surgery work. I wonder if it comes with an attachment to hold all my shopping bags? Call Chanel (800) 550-0005 to inquire and purchase.

Thank you to all the amazing girls who showed up to support Genesis Women's Shelter at our Bags and Bubbly event last week! Your efforts were greatly appreciated and we sold lots of bags, jewelry, and shoes! Thank you to Suze restaurant for the yummy desserts and champagne! Photos of the party after the jump!!! Don't forget to come see Kelly and me at the Oscar de la Renta boutique on Melrose in LA on May 20th, 5-8pm, for another fabulous Bags and Bubbly event!

A peek of what's in store for the Fall season from Louis Vuitton (if you don't care, skip to the next entry); I am going to take the high road and only review the bags that did not make me cringe (you have eyes, go to Style.com to see the scary ones for yourself). I fear I have turned in to a major grouch when it comes to LV bags but then today I came upon my set of antique Louis Vuitton luggage my friend gifted me when I gave birth and it brought back all the love I used to have for this brand. As you see, for Fall, the monogram and logo remain strong. It's the brand's bread and butter, why change it and go all simple and logo-less a la Bottega Veneta right? I mean how fun would that be? Who would we make fun of if Marc Jacobs started offering understated and subtly chic bags? We love Marc Jacobs because he shakes things up! So, back to the bags. Richly textured (looks like suede or could be fabric according to my source) with exotic detailing like python handles and ostrich trim, it is so lovely I can even overlook the monogram. I am especially liking the winter white version with python shoulder strap, it looks so luxurious next to the white cashmere coat. Is there anything more delicious than a white cashmere coat? I have to say, the Louis Vuitton ready to wear from MJ is exceptional this season. I can't wait to see the entire collection in person. What do you think? Will you ever be lured back to Louis Vuitton bags?

In its latest ad, Louis Vuitton features an unexpected Spoksperson and no, it's not a glamazon Supermodel nor a preteen starlet; it's a raggedy looking, eyeliner wearing and deeply wrinkled Keith Richards. Yes, as in Rock legend, as in the definition of cool, as in if he uses Louis Vuitton, it's safe to go back to the monogram. At least that is what the masterminds behind this Core Value campaign is hoping to achieve. What do you think? Will this tempt you back to the brand?

Source: WWD

I had the pleasure of meeting Andrea Ciaraldi, Creative Director of Giorgio Armani, last week. First at a fitting for Armani Privé Haute Couture (trust me, there is no experience like being fitted for Haute Couture, apex to apex) and later at a dinner at Fashionista Founder Heidi Dillon's home. Andrea is the ultimate charming Italian man. He insisted I try on the Haute Couture sample pieces and when I came out he raved in his delicious Italian accent "You are amazing, why are you hiding under layers of wool and boxy jacket? You must show this body off! Most models don't even fit into our sample sizes, you are perfect!" Talk about ego boost, I almost ordered the pink beaded gown on the spot. The cost of an average Haute Couture gown made to order, is a whooping six figures. But considering it takes over 300 hours to apply the beading and beautiful details, it is well worth the price, isn't it? There are a mere 2,000 Haute Couture collectors worldwide, while most are over the age of 60, there is a growing group of young girls (20's and 30's) buying into the art of Haute Couture. After this amazing experience, how can I go back to off the rack ready-to-wear?

We are always looking for new talent in the bag industry and our young (and tres ambitious) friend Daniel at Fashion Indie has put together an awesome Project Handbag contest with Maurices. They have narrowed it down to Ten Finalists and want you to vote for your favorite! I won't say who I voted for because I don't want to influence your choice. Help find the next great bag designer - Go vote now!

Call Jasenka at 214-265-0136 for further details and bag prices!

I wish I lived in the Jetson age so that I could've beamed myself to Milan earlier this week. I wanted to attend the Bottega Veneta show (what I actually said was "I want to come to the show and I want to have dinner with Tomas Maier" - I know, so demanding of me- but we think he looks like he'd enjoy a good dinner with a couple of Bag Snobs :) and was told "Come to Milan!" by their PR director whom I met at a dinner over Fashion Week. I was tempted to hop on a plane but having a three year old son makes it difficult to fly off at a moment's notice. As you all know by now, I adore Bottega and after seeing the Fall 2008 collection, I am kicking myself for not going to the show! Tomas Maier created another drool worthy collection of fabulous frocks, sumptuous coats, and beautiful bags (all you need for the ultimate Fall wardrobe!). Everything seemed so different yet familiar (Tomas is the master at reinventing the old without changing the integrity of its roots) even Bottega's classic woven details are blown to exaggerated proportions on a python clutch, making it fresh and fun while the iconic knotted clutch has been elongated for a more youthful vibe. Exotics ruled the runway once again (a yummy ostrich clutch wrapped in crocodile anyone?), and if you have not owned a piece of Bottega exotic skin, you are truly missing out. My anaconda bag fell into a tub full of bubbles (please don't ask, it pains me to even think about it but a three year old was the culprit) and I thought it'd be ruined. I really couldn't be angry with my son though, as he sweetly said "mama, you love bags right? I wash for you nice and clean." Uh, okay. I swallowed my tears and let the bag dry overnight, it was good as new, amazing!

We started Bag Snob two and a half years ago and are blown away by the strides taken by the fashion blogging industry; from Fashion week invitations to showroom visits, designers are now aware of the positive influence of fashion blogs and reaching out to us. Kelly and I were invited to Oscar de la Renta's showroom yesterday to preview his latest bag collection, we were told Oscar would join us and we just about fainted- how many people can say they hung out at Oscar de la Renta's showroom (and his private workroom loft, I was told most people do not get access up there!) with OSCAR himself!?!? We spent the first part of our visit playing with the new bags (THE strongest bag collection of the season-I will have more details on the fabulous Shagreen Goya bag I am carrying in the photo) and the Fall '08 RTW collection, not only did I touch and feel all the samples, I was able to try them on! (most fit me perfectly, which means the 6' tall models are a size 0!?!?) It was like playing dress up in your mother's closet, except every item is an Oscar de la Renta masterpiece. The clothes were even more beautiful in person, the details in the stitching, beading, and embroidery were absolutely exquisite and extraordinary. Oscar applies the same meticulous haute couture detailing to his ready-to-wear as he did during his years as the Director of Pierre Balmain couture. From the runway we saw gold leafing, in person, the gold leafs are actually hand painted feathers!

I barely made it to the tents in time for the Vera Wang show this morning, a huge fire shut down 3rd Ave and traffic was horrendous. I was totally panicked because not only is Vera our favorite Chinese-American designer but my friend Sasha (whose stepmother was an editor at Vogue with Vera and a close family friend of hers) promised to take me backstage to meet her! I managed to get to my seat at 10:30, just in time as the plastic runners were being removed from the runway.

Kelly went back to LA so I am running around New York without my partner in crime. It's not as fun to attend the shows alone, there is no one to ooooooooooh or aaaaaaaaaah with and of course going to bag showrooms alone is no fun either because we can't discuss and dissect the bags together afterwards. We always look forward to seeing Michael Kors' bags though- together or not- because regardless of whether or not we approve, we always find them interesting. Michael Kors went all classic for Fall '08 bags yesterday, you can't go wrong playing it safe! The clutches with the hand holder is present again but this time matching leather straps take the stage instead of Rolex inspired chains, we like this detail because it makes carrying a clutch so much easier. Lots of luxe skins were also the focus, frame bags in rich crocodile and soft ostrich will certainly be a hit with the luncheon social crowd.

Remember how amazing Oscar's Spring '08 collection was? The Fall collection is even more stunning! Presented once again at 583 Park, Oscar wowed the house with yet another jaw dropping collection. Mr. de la Renta is indisputably the greatest American designer in fashion history. Over 40 years of gorgeous gowns, beautifully fitted suits and classic cocktail dresses yet he manages to make it appear fresh and modern every time (63 looks this season, the most we have seen all week!).

OK, so he wasn't actually at anything Fashion Week related, we saw him at dinner at Waverly Inn. He was just walking out as we were going in and Tina was wearing a coat from his last collection at YSL so he agreed to pose for a quick picture. He was very nice and told Tina the coat looked great on her. We've seen Ashley Olsen, Anne Hathaway, Chloe Sevigny, Rachel Zoe (ew), Angie Harmon and I can't even remember who else but it was Tom Ford that got Tina excited like a giddy little girl.

Photos courtesy of Elle.com

This collection speaks directly to my fantasy of living the high life in the country, including the medieval jousting techno music. The everyday relaxed fur hoodie or fox hunting outfit is something that can translate to suburban life, (to get back to reality). Sure the Robin Hood feather hats are a bit much for the sidewalks of New York city but if you undo the spectacle for the runway, it actually is very wearable. And then of course Carolina goes all out on her dresses and gowns - so beautiful, full of the style and grace of the olden days. My absolute favorite is the rust and silver jacquard vest with feathers over the blue corseted gown. I love the masculine with the super feminine. She also has gowns and dresses that are all out lady-like glamour - the lemon-drop colored textured chiffon dress as well as the silk twill and chiffon print dress with the copper trims. The gown to drool over is the brown melange taffeta strapless gown with feathers. I don't know how you will ever sit with the loose bow on your bum but it is by far the best look going down the runway. The entire collection stayed true and cohesive to her inspiration of the countryside with its riding outfits and elegant dinner gowns. It is always fun going to major shows like this with so much fanfare. I just wish I wasn't so distracted by the lady sitting in front of me with the purple slinky head band. So strange.

Photos: Elle.com

Diane von Furstenberg is one of our favorite designers, season after season, she never ceases to amaze and delight. I arrived in New York on Sunday and headed straight to the tents for the DVF Fall 2008 show and the collection did not disappoint. For Fall '08, she said she was inspired by "a muse who always knew she would find her way through the rain drops... the mystery, the unknown, the infinite possibilities of a foreign affair." One who would stride through the dark streets of Berlin with a secret in her heart and diamonds sewn into the hem of her dress with a wardrobe of slender and feminine silhouettes. Classic tones of camel and charcoal were the focus, punched up with flashes of fuchsia and chartreuse silk jacquard. Houndstooth and tweed fitted jackets juxtaposed against sumptuous silk velvets and ornate embroidery gave the collection depth and character. High glossy heels and asymmetrical mini felt hats(by Jennifer Behr) finish the sultry look reminiscent of a modern day Marlene Dietrich. The DvF muse also flees to Shanghai, in mandarin collared silk dresses of florals and vibrant color- the grouping was sensuous and beautiful- my 95 year old Grandmother from Shanghai would approve. This is by far one of the best collections Diane von Furstenberg has shown, one that I will be clamoring for come Fall.

Kelly and I are off to Fashion Week for the week and will be blogging from New York. Please bear with us if we do not post as regularly (in between party hopping we are hoping to get lots of work done!). We will be bringing you coverage both from the runway and backstage (Vera Wang, Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, Oscar, just to name a few! Plus interviews with Bobbi Brown, Nars, and Orlando Pita!) We're also visiting major bag designers (think Zac and Anya) so we can give you sneak previews of what's to come for Fall 2008. You'll get to see the excitement of Fashion Week firsthand here at Bag Snob so stay tuned!

At 43, the editrix whose dad wrote the lyrics to Annie thinks like she's 25 and knows a trend when she sees one. Which is why, after six years at Allure, she bolted for—of all places—Us Weekly. Though it lacks hauteur, fashion flacks say landing a shot of a Simpson sister holding a label's latest It bag in one of Morrison's coveted red-carpet pages moves more merch than a full-page image in a highly art-directed Condé glossy. And when one of Morrison's minions calls in a sample, even the most prickly of PR reps tells the messenger to hustle.

Photos: WWD

Louis Vuitton has created cinema and tv ads for the first time in its history hoping to draw a larger audience to its brand (because you know, the monogram is not over exposed enough). By bringing the LV brand to the screen, Louis Vuitton plans to emphasize its travel heritage and bring in new consumers. Titled "Where will life take you?", the artsy and dreamlike 90 second commercials will only offer fleeting glimpses of the leather goods. Look for the spots starting on both the small screen (select satellite and cable) and big screen as pre-movie commercial Feb. 15 and will run through 2008.

My dear friend, Florence the Shoe Goddess, and I have been emailing all weekend about the perils of high heels (we both have back and knee issues but it is a small price to pay for looking fab right?). I am a sucker for sky high platforms (if you ever meet me, you will understand:) and just picked up these super fab Tribute T-Strap sandals in cobalt blue (over 4 inches high!!! There is a shorter version but it looks dumpy!). Florence has two pairs- brown and black patent and says she danced the night away in them on New Year's Eve (ouch!), she also insists that they are ultra comfortable. Though I am not as brave and am in pain at the thought of dancing in my new Tribute T-Straps, I may have to try soon as they look outrageously sublime with my Midnight Rockstar clutch from Romanek by Brigette Romanek!
YSL tribute sandals $780 at Neiman Marcus or call YSL- and ask for Fatima at 310-271-4110. (Neiman Marcus just sold out of the blue- call Fatima asap!)

Romanek by Brigette Romanek Rock Star clutch $2,195 at Barneys New York.

Sign up for Shopbop's $5000 Shopping Spree giveaway thru Dec. 31st. No need to buy anything, just go and enter your email address, I already entered, it's very easy and fun to think of what you can spend it on. They are also having a fabulous Designer Brands Sale. I found 2 dresses that are great for New Year's, as you can see I picked 2 very different personalities depending on which way you plan on spending your night. Personally, I am doing the innocent house party (boring yes, but safe, comfortable, no crowds and no loud music. Oh my god, I am officially a crotchety old lady). The Marie Marie Fresh Dress is only $346.50 on Sale and the McQ by Alexander McQueen Assymetrical dress is a mere $180.60 on Sale. Free ground shipping with any order, hurry and you'll get it by year's end.