Recently in Hobo Category

We can't believe Oscar de la Renta is going to give away his favorite bag of the season-- the Taylor Python bag! He personally announced the giveaway this morning during the VPA after some serious pleading from our readers-- which makes this even more special (though we were all upset when chatroll crashed)! As Oscar told us, the python on this bag is pressed to give it a subtle sheen that makes it smooth and supple which will protect it from cracking or curling. The chocolate leather woven handle is interlaced with beading-- all handmade, it is the most fabulous detail for a handle we've seen. And by the way, this bag is worth $2950!!

Enter now to win by signing up to our newsletter (this list will be shared with Oscar de la Renta's team). Even if you already receive our newsletters, you will still need to fill out the form to enter this contest. Last day to enter is November 30, 2009 11:59pm EST. The winner will be randomly selected on December 1, 2009. Only one entry per person please and make sure you give us a working email, so that we can contact you when you win. Good luck!! ENTER NOW.

Huge thank you to Oscar de la Renta for this amazing giveaway!!!

We loved Adriana Castro Python Meissa Hobo when it debuted a few seasons ago and it's now become a classic shape for the brand.  For Fall, it's updated in a range of gorgeous colors and matte python skin: Black, Brown, Anthracite, Royal Blue, Natural Matte.  Many celebs are discovering the charm of Adriana Castro's bags as well-- the Meissa hobo is a fave of Jennifer Lopez!  $1900.00 is a bargain for such a luscious bag and what an amazing gift it will be for the bag snob in your life!  Bummer for those who live in California as python is prohibited by state law, you'll have to sneak it across the border like Kelly does.

You can order this bag online, place an order by phone 1.866.460.4484 or by e-mail.

I totally understand and am in agreement with Stella McCartney haters because of the prices on her bags. Hollywood aside, I think I am making a fair generalization by saying that most environmentalist are not fashionistas. There is no "Crunchy Granola" department at Neiman Marcus. If you're spending close to $1000 on a bag, you're probably a meat eater. First of all, the word "recycled" to me is synonymous with "affordable" since less resources were expended for it. This shape with the ribbon detail is super cute and totally snob worthy but for $785, I insist that some animal was harmed during the making of it. At Bergdorf Goodman.

I am loving about this new Smythson hobo. With a Smythson, you stand out with a unique bag, trust me, I have never run into another person with the Smythson Nancy when I carry it. But the distinct quality and the style give away its luxury status. The Erica is easy and understated, the denim does all the talking - how fabulous is this color?! This is a hobo with a flap and magnetic closure, you don't see that everyday. The clasp is an Italian briarwood called Erica Arborea, thus the name. The sides unzip to expand the bag. My favorite detail of a Smythson bag is the satin lining, always in a bright unexpected color and this denim has a malachite lining that is an explosion of vibrancy. At Smythson for $1460.

I've been looking at this bag for weeks and it is slowly growing on me-- it's still not something I'd buy but I can see the appeal to many. At first I cringed at the studs overkill but the pyramid shape at least makes it interesting.  I see this on a slightly older bag snob who does not see studs as a passing fancy but part of her staple wardrobe (as it was for her in the '80s).  Wait, that sounds like me!  It also feels very Halloween to me for some reason... what do you think?  Is this a Trick or a Treat? Jimmy Choo Ramona studded leather bag $3125

It is Friends and Family discount season! If you plan wisely and get your shopping done early, you will save grief and money. Or maybe you just want to shop for yourself =) Shopbop is doing a 2 day sale, Oct. 20 and 21 only, all full priced merchandise is 15% OFF with code INTHEFAMILY15. Get the basics like the Mulberry Mabel Hobo for $825, $701.25. Another great everyday bag is the Alexander Wang Brenda Zip Bag for $725, $616.25, it looks way cooler in person, very London chic! If you want to gear up for the holidays with some clutches that wows, the Derek Lam Kashmira Clutch that I've had my eyes on for a while now can now be mine with less guilt, $1290, $1096.50. Another amazing party bag is the Diane von Furstenberg Belle Clutch with Studs for $595, $505.75. Sale ends Wednesday, October 21, at 11:59pm PDT.

In love the the Olivia Harris Round Sac? I have kids and a lot of running around to do so that has been my go-to bag for hectic days. Now I am hooked! And this Ball Hobo style is another one of those that will make life less stressful - financially and pragmatically. This viola color is perfect for the fall, the gray trim is absolutely perfect for contrast and cool detailing. The pockets and adjustable strap are key to its functionality. The leather is so buttery soft and lightweight - everything about this bag is just right. Especially the price! $395 at Luna Boston.

I wrote about the plastic Miu Miu studded bag over the summer and could not understand why anyone would want that when you can have the leather version for a few hundred bucks more. And how does Miu Miu even justify charging almost the same for a plastic bag vs. a leather version? I have not seen a Miu Miu bag worthy of a second glance in a long time but this collection is definitely worth a glance, or two.  The Miu Miu Studded leather wallet at $375 is a decent buy as is the Miu Miu Studded leather messenger bag for $1195.  My favorite is the Miu Miu Nappa quilted hobo ($1495), though.  The flap is more discreet and the detailing on the handle is interesting.  What do you think of Miu Miu bags of late?

This was just another python bag until I saw it in person! Wow! It is so super amazing. This is the kind of bag I can use without changing out for months. Which we can't exactly speak to in realistic terms or my husband will really start to wonder why I need so many bags =) But seriously, buy wisely and invest in a few great bags and you will save yourself some money. This large tote style hobo / messenger, as the description suggests, is extremely versatile. Python is great for being lightweight but even with leather lining, which is lush, it is still incredibly easy on the shoulder. The cross body strap makes it feel like feather. It comes in various colors, which you can custom order, but I love this natural python with a taupey hint, it'll not only wear well but will wear with everything! Exclusively online at LuxCouture for $1750.

I came across a great line of handbags when I was in Munich a few weeks ago. The line is called Kaviar Gauche and most of the bags retail for under 700 euros. It's the best feeling when you come across a new brand when you're abroad that you know none of your friends are familiar with. Not that I'm knocking the beauty of sporting an Hermes, Miu Miu, or Givenchy, but sometimes it's nice to have a bag that people don't recognize right away. I love the shapes and detailing of the styles in this line -- so original! Plus they're soft, yet sturdy enough to carry any heavy loads. My favorite is the Motorcycle Shopper (565 euros -- left). In the middle is the Lamella Bag (419-499 euros), and on the right is the brand's Oyster Bag (790 euros).