Recently in Shopper Category

I'm writing about this bag because it's so simple and basic-- an easy piece to incorporate into one's bag wardrobe (will post my 2nd NBC segment on building a bag wardrobe soon, am still recovering from my monthlong trip!).

Simple, however, does not mean boring-- the small sprinkling of studs on the sides make the bag trendy and stylish, too. Not sure what that lock is for but at least it's not so big that it detracts from the clean lines (just turn it around, the backside is much cuter). Many of you ask us for bags you can take to work and to cocktails, I think this is it. Price is right, too! Sometimes, Marc pleasantly surprises us with his subtleties, this is one of them. Marc Jacobs Kate leather shoulder bag $950

Check out Kristin Davis (Charlotte) with a Nancy Gonzalez crocodile tote while filming scenes in NYC for Sex and the City II. Davis accessorized her green dress and turquoise suede heels with a $3,380 turquoise Nancy Gonzalez tote.  I love this shade of turquoise and ordered a hobo for Spring 2010 in the same shade!  It's so fresh and pretty, we are raining cats and dogs with Typhoon weather in Taipei right now and seeing this brightly colored bag makes me so happy!  There is a black version of the Nancy Gonzalez tote here if you're not into the color.

We introduced you to the fabulous Stephanie bag from DVF back in January and much as I loved it I could not swing that size.  Good thing I waited because now it comes in medium in a rock star worthy black metallic!  You must see this in person, the woven leather is amazing and the metallic peeks through depending on the movement of the bag-- subtle yet sexy.  There is also a longer shoulder strap but I like the shorter handle, it looks more sophisticated.  The bracelet clutch is also tres adorable with long tassles and at a great price point!  DVF bags are a superb value for its functionality, design and glam factor-- just like her iconic wrap dresses!  I am anxiously awaiting  Hayworth in python (it's stuck in customs!). Meanwhile, you must check out the Stephanie styles!
 
Diane von Furstenberg Stephanie Medium Hobo $875

Diane von Furstenberg Stephanie Bracelet Clutch $395

It is true Lanvin has lost its luster but there are still a couple of bags that are worthy of my desire, like this Happy Quilted Clutch. Notice I used desire instead of "lust", this just isn't one of those bags that begs for my attention. But if you need a good clutch, this does fit the bill. The trend now is to go for a standout clutch that makes the outfit, like a Derek Lam or McQueen that will start conversations but sometimes all we need is a wallflower clutch that just sits back and blends in. Yeah, that was a really nice way to say this is boring but with the beautiful quilted light bronze satin and cool oversized turn lock closure, it does have many positive details to rave about. At Barneys New York for $1305.

We are so excited to share the latest from the House of Bottega, Cruise 2010 bags! Each season we find more reasons to love Bottega Veneta, one of the few design houses that offer truly modern and edgy interpretations of its timeless styles. We previewed the Cruise 2010 collection at the showroom last week and Kelly and I almost got into a wrestling match over the samples. My favorite is the amazing Truffle Soft Crocodile Fume Tote with grommets on the sides and handles ($13,500 above left). I love that the grommets are subtle yet make a really powerful statement. So rock and roll but still so Bottega! The iconic Knot clutch also gets an updated make over for Cruise in fabulous Ring Lizard with Oxydized Silver Knot.  Available in Fluo Yellow, Fluo Pink, and Fluo Orange for $1,980 each.  (Jump for more!) Bottega Veneta also at Net-a-porter.com

I finally watched Valentino: The Last Emperor and I was moved to tears.  Valentino, you get me and all women... WE JUST WANT TO FEEL BEAUTIFUL!  I'd like to forget all of my rules of functionality and practicality for a moment and just follow my heart. I want a bag to thrill me, excite me and to put a smile on my face every time I look at it. I don't need it to carry toys, sippy cups, iPhones or any of the things that I'm boggled with in my daily life. I just want it to be fabulous!  Impractical if necessary but as long as it is beautiful, I don't care! I know the Emperor is no longer at the helm but this bag, the 360 bag covered in embroidered sequins, represents to me everything that is Valentino, wrapped up in one glittery and glamorous bag. Even the giant bow is insanely fab, like the topping to a delicious cake. At Valentino boutiques worldwide. Retail price $4,895 (crazy expensive but the workmanship of each embroidered sequin is something to be seen!)

Call 214-750-5707 to order. Valentino also available at Saks.

Am experiencing major obsession over VBH bags lately, specifically the shoppers above.  There is nothing extraordinary about an elongated tote but from VBH, it's anything but ordinary.  First, the materials used are of the very best (I put them up there with Hermes and Bottega) and the craftsmanship, unquestionable.  But what I really love is the design of this shopper called the "Nap Sac", when carried on the shoulder, it becomes an extension of you and languidly wraps itself around you.  The genius of the tote is that it looks amazing both on Kelly and myself (two very different body shapes).  It's because of the way the handles fit right under the armpit or the crook of the arm-- the snug fit will allow the supple bag to mold itself on you, no matter your size.  Even at 35cm it looks like it was made for me because of its softness.  The Nap Sac is a mainstay in the VBH collection but it's far from boring.  Each season it's updated with either chains, studs, or just luxurious python.  Me, I'm all about the black with subtle sprinkling of studs.  What about you? 

VBH Leather Shopper with Stud Detail $2,650

VBH Python Shopper 40cm wide, $4,250

The first of Joy Gryson for MCM bags have arrived at Saks!  Though modernized and sporty, Gryson retains the flavor of the classic brand with the Sportivo Satchel.  Instead of an entire bag emblazoned with the MCM logo, Gryson opted instead to give subtle tastes of it on the embossed leather on the sides and outer corners.  A brilliant way to cater to those who love the logo and those who prefer discretion.  The simple pebble grained leather satchel gets a nice twist by adding the belted gathering on corners. Adjustable shoulders will allow you to carry on shoulder or crook of arm.  Can't wait to see the rest of the collection!  MCM Sportivo Satchel at Saks for $975.

I got the New Sacca Bag from Givenchy in taupe (895 euro) at Maendler while I was in Munich (they only have two left! Their number is +49 89 2.... Though if you're in Munich my mother just told me that Theresa got in a shipment as well). I haven't seen this model in this color (new for Fall 2009), anywhere in NYC nor have I seen it online so I was very excited when I spotted it in the boutique. There is however another European site that is selling the smaller version of the "New Sacca" (633 euro). The price is pretty amazing -- Givenchy is definitely one of those brands that you save a lot of money on if you buy it in Europe (plus you can get the tax back which in Germany is 19%!). This bag is fantastic! It's not heavy and it easily fits everything I need and more (except for my computer that is, which unfortunately is too heavy and bulky to fit -- I seriously need to trade in my IMB for a Sony -- would make doing work while on the go so much easier. If only I could splurge less and save more!). I love that only one of the handles has the chain detail and that the Givenchy logo is subtle while still giving the bag some pop. The only downside to the bag is that there aren't many interior pockets and everything falls to the center bottom of the bag making it hard to find things when I'm in a rush.

I can't wait to see what Riccardo Tisci has in store for S/S 2010!

Note -- Jump to see what makes the Fall 2009 Sacca different from the one from last season.

Each season, I choose an Oscar de la Renta bag (or two... or three...) to add to my collection. This fall, I'm eyeing the "Taylor" python hobo. The bag itself is a simple classic shape that Oscar has done time and again but the handle offers a naughty twist-- it's hand woven from leather and metal chain! I know, total rock star worthy (and you should see the studded knee high boots!  Why Oscar, I had no idea you loved studs like me!).  The details and workmanship in the handle is purely haute couture (Oscar's specialty!)  But don't worry, it's not heavy because python skin is super lightweight and is the best skin to combine metal with.  This particular python skin Oscar used is really sublime and comes in delicious shades of frothing cream and coffee.  The "Taylor" python tote is $2,950 at Oscar de la Renta boutiques-- Call Mindy at 214-346-0400 -- I think there are only 2 left!!!