Yellow - Poppie Couture $450; White - Oscar de la Renta Doheny Clutch, $1295; Red - Givenchy Nightingale $1695; Blue - Jimmy Choo Ramona Tote $1995; Brown - Balenciaga Lune $1995; Green - Chloe Heloise $1525; Purple - Nancy Gonzalez Croc Tote $2950; Black - Christian Louboutin Satin Bowler $1195

When you pick a color of a bag (or anything else for that matter), are you being totally objective and choosing based on aesthetics alone? Or is something else deeper lurking in that decision? I know, deep right? Bag Snob is not as shallow as you think =) We all know certain colors represent different emotions and characteristics so let's test it out and see what those are. Pick your favorite color: yellow, white, red, blue, brown, green, purple or black. Go to the jump page to see what that color says about you. Don't cheat! Pick a color first!!

There are a lot of really amazing bags from Chanel this season - this is not the best in the collection but it is our Cheap Thrills of the week. That's right, you heard right, but this is a Chanel Cheap Thrill so the standards are a bit different, it is over $1000. It's really smart to them to make bags at a lower price point, it allows the label to be accessible to the younger girls to get them hooked but it's not like they are bending over backwards to achieve this, it is still a very Chanel bag. Fabric has been done by Chanel so it is not a huge departure and it is a classic flap, but the novelty crinkled patent finish is refreshing and hip. This picture makes the fabric look kind of cheap but in person it is quite lush, it is not a super shiny patent which I prefer. The fabric is slightly puffed so it feels really good against the body and of course is super light which makes the bag that much more desirable. The only detail that bothered me is the CC magnetic closure on the flap - does it cost that much more to put in the classic CC twist lock closure? If so, I would pay an extra $100 to have that. $1295, call (800) 550-0005 to have one located for you but I suspect this will be available at every boutique.

YSL Marjorelle $1395, Lanvin Python Pochette $1830
Bottega Venta $2780, Miu Miu Matelasse $1590

Are you ready for summer? Well, first things first, you gotta get your white bags on! Here are our favorite bags in white for the summer. And who says you can't wear white after Labor Day? Total non-sense, especially when we are talking about fabulous classic bags that are appropriate for all seasons and occasions. The YSL Marjorelle has become one of my favorite bags this season (I have the blue but now am wishing I had waited for this white!!). The Lanvin pochette in python is a steal for $1830 and is the perfect bag for your tiny summer dresses or even a hot evening out with a tropical cocktail, umbrella and all. For the practical gals, the tri-compartment Bottega Veneta breezes from work to weekends. And if you are in between hip and pragmatic, the Miu Miu is genius for all events in your life. It has stood the test of time so even though it is a trend bag, you will be able to use it for many seasons to come. Like with everything else, before anything can get started, you must first have the perfect bag!

By the way, the Lanvin and Miu Miu is 40% off at Barneys Dallas for one day only! Call Pam or Cory at 469-221-4807

Born in San Francisco, to a fourth-generation Chinese-American family, Derek Lam spent his childhood among the racks of clothes his parents imported from Asia. He especially adored the wedding gowns at his grandparents' garment factories and spent many happy afternoons with the seamstresses there. Little did he know, his destiny was being shaped, as he tirelessly watched stitch after meticulous stitch. I first met Derek in 2005. He was in his second year of showing his collection and had not yet signed on as Tod's creative director. He was soft spoken, sweet and accommodating. I was so enamored with him and his beautiful clothes that I became a dedicated Derek Lam fanatic, picking up pieces each season. Of course, I've also been a Tod's bags and shoes junkie since college (Tod's platform boots circa 2002? I have 5 pairs!) so there was no one more excited than I when it was announced that Derek would be heading up the classic Italian brand.

We met up again last Wednesday at a brunch co-hosted by Tod's and one of my closest friends, Kimberly Whitman. I stole Derek away from the other guests, so that we could catch up and give our readers a chance to meet him, up close and personal. Jump to see the entire interview!

Softy Messenger bag and tote in python. Call Tod's 214-363-6600 to order

If you are looking to update your Bag Wardrobe with a classic bag in a summery shade, the Bottega Tri Compartment tote in Lotus or Putty is for you. Completely irresistible in sugary sweet pink or soft dove gray, this expandable Tote bag/Travel bag is versatile and functional (Kelly wanted the Iron one last year but I talked her out of it because it looked so heavy and stogy to me, but in these colors I wouldn't object!). For me, the yummy frothy colors really lighten up the squareness of the bag! I know many of you are tired of the Bottega woven leather but it is still the sturdiest of them all. It is also ultra practical with three compartments that expand with your needs. Now how many bags can you say "beautiful" and "sensible" about in one sentence? Bottega Veneta Tote in Putty $2,650 or Lotus Pink color $2,780 at Net a porter.

After all the debate over Kate's Mulberry custom made (or bespoke) green alligator bag I thought we should look into Mulberry's bespoke bag service for you guys. Basically you choose one of the core Mulberry styles in the skin and hardware of your liking, it is also personalized with your initials engraved on the postman’s lock on the front of the bag to further confirm its owner (you know, in case you are at the SoHo House and some bimbo tries to sneak off with your bag!). The lock-free Calder will be specially fitted with a Mulberry branded plaque on the back of the bag that can be engraved with your initials. In addition, leather initials can be ordered to hang from the handles of the bag and make it truly personal and unique. As for Kate's bag with the missing exterior front straps that confused so many of you, our Mulberry source said it was an aesthetic decision based on the alligator skin (just as I thought!). Though you are not actually designing a whole new bag, this customization (or bespoke) service allows you to choose the leathers and hardware that best fit your personality and taste! The cost is not that much more and you have to admit, having your own initials on a bag is quite appealing. (More info after the jump!)
See Mulberry styles online!

I have a special place in my heart for anything Balenciaga, but as much as I loved the City "Le Dix" Motorcycle bag almost 10 years ago (yes, I had the original "it" bag in two colors when Nicole, Lindsay and Mischa were 12 years old, still wearing braces and dreaming of Ricky Martin), they've been lovingly stored in the back of my bag closet for years and probably won't see the light of day any time soon. No matter how commercial or over exposed by annoying young stars though, Nicolas Ghesquiere remains the coolest kid on the designing block. And even if I don't write about Balenciaga bags much anymore, I keep track of Ghesquiere and buy dresses and jackets from the line each season. I was browsing around the other day and came upon the Cherche Midi, possibly the best of Balenciaga's spring bag line. Its modern square shape with chunky industrial chains is an urban fashionista's dream and the multi dimensional effect created by the contrasting colors on the exterior pocket flap and strap is quite eye catching. The chain is adjustable and removeable, which means you can use the bag as a clutch, how fabulous right? I love the fresh green shade that Balenciaga does so well each year but this is the first time I've liked the bag it's on. I think this is a bag even Carine Roitfeld (who has told me she does not care much for bags) would approve of. And at $2300 it is fairly well priced considering all the details on this edgy bag. Call 212-206-0872 to order.

Update: Leonello Borghi bags available at Barneys, Takashimaya in NYC and in select stores in Japan and Hong Kong.

The Ophidia Magazine Tote - 12x12.5x4.75 $2,817

It is always exciting to discover new and talented bag designers but Leonello Borghi is far from being the new kid on the block. He worked with designers such as Ralph Lauren, Prada and Armani for over a decade before launching his own collection in 2002. For Spring 2008, he shows a strong collection of bags that are functional and beautiful. I am especially drawn to the sleek Ophidia Magazine tote in Python above. It is the perfect size for me and has versatile expandable zippers that reveal contrasting white leather which makes it so chic in addition to giving you more room when you need it. Many bag designers have tried the "expandable" bag concept but none as well as Borghi.

More about Borghi after the jump!

Dear Tina and Kelly,

Bagsnob.com is simply awesome! Your verdicts are dead right and the sense of humor always makes us smile! Believe it or not, you are THE style queens who have a great influence on all our bag purchases... :) Could I ask you for a huge favor? My cousin and I do not like or buy LV at all, but the only bag that has caught our attention is the Mahina. The stores have been pushing it as a classic, but we look to you for advice. If one were to own only one LV bag (we absolutely hate the monogram canvas) could it possibly be this one? In other words, does it have your stamp of approval?

Wish you a wonderful and successful 2008 !

Warmly,

Rhea & Pia

Anya Hindmarch, British Fashion Award Designer of the Year recipient, has another winner that will surely make a splash with bag lovers worldwide. A simple and basic saddle shaped bag is anything but in Anya's hands. She manages to make it elegant with subtle chain details yet functional with shoulder straps so you can wear all the cute frilly summer dresses without fear of the chains injuring your shoulder. The leather is smooth and delicious with minimal hardware and the interior lined in luxe suede. There is a divider in the center so your things won't all hang down the middle and make the bag sag, plus it will keep you more organized- something Anya, as a mother of four, always thinks of when designing bags. I saw this bag in person at her Spring '08 preview in NYC last September and it is even more divine than the photo. There is a fab gray one but the cream is really elegant, it's a great alternative to a stark white bag and won't show wear as quickly. This bag has a very chic '70s vibe that appeals to me. I am really in a casual mood lately, and this is just the thing to throw on with my J Brand wide legged jeans and a Peter Som top (sometimes I just don't feel like dragging an Hermes birkin or Chanel around you know what I mean?). Grab yours today at Saks before it sells out. Priced at $1,200- there are very few bags in this price range with this kind of quality and design. Check out Anya Hindmarch bags here

At first glance, Chanel's limited edition python bag (only 25 made!) is everything I need in a bag. The gorgeous python skin (special flat scales that resemble lizard skin so it will never curl like regular python, it's amazing!) in antiquated metallic finish makes it a modern classic that will never go out of style and the three luxuriously quilted interior compartments allow for total obsessive organization. I wanted it the minute I saw it but then I tried it on and almost sprained my shoulder from the weight of the very heavy and very large chains! The chains must weigh 5 pounds and it is so bulky it wouldn't stay on my shoulders properly. I tried putting it on my arm but then the chains are long so it dangled too low and did I mention it is really heavy? Needless to say, I was devastated! A few years ago I would have bought it regardless but I am now a seasoned pro and I knew this would sit in the box more than it would be used as I would be scared to throw my back out and that would be a shame because this beauty needs to be showed off! If you are tall and have broad shoulders or have a back of steel, call Alexis to find out more about this lovely limited edition bag. 214-520-1055

I know we are going to catch more flak from animal lovers so I'd like to share the following from a New York Times article: "in the face of poaching and widespread habitat destruction, one way to save many species is to make them economically valuable. Farming crocodiles may be a means of insuring their survival".

Look at these beauties, this is the kind of bags that make us weak in the knees and bring us to tears. Call us superficial, frivolous, bored or whatever. But you can not deny the perfection of Chanel's crocodile 2.55 bags. I had a chance to play around with it at the Chanel boutique today and the crocodile skin is absolutely flawless. Pilar, the Managing Director of Chanel, and I discussed at length about the difference in shiny croc (from a glaze treatment) and matte croc and we both decided that shine from the glaze treatment shows off the scales better and gives it that glitzy glamour we crave from an exotic bag. The croc bags come in multiple colors, but I prefer the light blue version shown above left. It's a young and fun color, totally unexpected from such a serious bag. $24,000 at Chanel. 214-520-1055 - ask for Alexis

For the ultimate snob, the bag also comes in a diamond/crocodile version at the whooping price of $240,000. Which is almost double the price of the diamond/crocodile Hermes birkin. Looking for a Christmas gift anyone?

This is the best eco-fab tote I have seen! Henry Cuir's leather tote (tanned without harmful chemicals) has a small etched design and French message "I am the earth. I love myself and I respect myself." So it won't please animal activists but environmentalists should be happy to see that designers are attempting to make an effort at reducing harmful chemicals in the environment. Eco-fab or not though, this is a great tote. No fuss and structurally clean, it is a huge tote best used as a shopper, travel or work bag. And how cute is that leather button closure?

Did I mention this is a Barney's Exclusive? It's also reasonably priced at $850 considering its size and multi-functionality. With the holiday shopping madness fast approaching, do yourself a favor and grab a tote you can feel good about! Imagine all the shopping bags you can refuse and all the goodies you can stuff in it! At Barneys New York.

I have been obsessed with Devi Kroell since we gave away the Devi Korell ostrich bag last year. Since then, Devi has been recognized with multiple awards from CFDA and expanded her incredible line. Currently my must have is the ostrich shopper; available in turquoise, black or beige, it is a stylish and functional bag with multiple uses. I go through phases of favoring categories in my bag collection and lately I am all about my totes. And what could be more perfect than a great tote bag in sumptuous ostrich? It also converts from top handle or shoulder strap seamlessly, this function is nothing new in bags but it is the way Devi designs her buckles and hardware that makes it so unique. She lends an element of modern classic in all of her bags and this one is no exception. It is 13" x 15" so it will fit a laptop (which is so important to us! I know Kelly is drooling right now and figuring when her next bag allowance is!), change of clothes for travel, and will convert from work to play effortlessly. If the ostrich version is a bit steep for your pocket book at $4490, the leather version with anaconda trim in beige, brown and black are just as fabulous at $1590. At Devi Kroell.com

What could be better than purple patent? How about hot pink patent? So this may not be the classic you'll pass on for generations but girls just wanna have fun sometimes you know what I mean? This bubble-licious tote is from Lanvin, which shows you the wide range the line offers. Last Friday I shared a classic black tote from the House of Fabulous and you all loved it. I expect our cheeky bag snobs will love this one too. Again, bold color made a huge splash on the runways for Spring '08, get a jump start on this hot look now! $1,600 at Barneys New York,call and ask for Adrienne (469) 221-4700 with questions or to purchase!

How adorable is this tote? I know I use that word a lot but I can't think of another word for the ruched shopper from Lanvin! Trust Alber Elbaz to take a simple (and rather boring) tote and turn it into something absolutely fabulous with just a small detail. This butter soft lambskin tote is so lush and yummy (and lightweight I should add!) which makes it the perfect every day bag. The knotted shoulder straps are totally genius too, how many times do you catch yourself pushing up one strap or the other as you are running around? I always wrap one strap around the other to keep my straps from slipping off but with this tote it's been done for you! As with all things Lanvin, there is no logo, just a small coin (detachable) to identify its fabulous brand. 13" wide is a great size for a tote, and the edgy chic style is perfect for urban bag snobs. Did I mention it is only $1,235? At Barneys.com

The Madeline is another bag to drool over, the pinot version in embossed snakeskin is stunning with the gunmetal hardware. I just love the vintage feel to this bag, I actually have a vintage bag from the '70s that looks almost identical to this one! The roomy body makes it functional for daily use but the frame with sparkling buckle gives it just a touch of glam. Fabulous right? You'll also love the price- $780 for the snakeskin, $625 for leather version.

(Hum to tune of Donny and Marie classic song) I'm a little bit Chanel, I'm a little bit Bottega, I'm the result of a lack of imagination and a little bit of hallucination. Seriously now, I expect a lot more from Marc Jacobs, the designer touted as boy genius of the fashion world. Just look at this mishmash of confusing details, it's almost as if "someone" took a little bit of "something" when they hallucinated this bag- not pointing fingers, really I am not! But woven leather with garish gold chains on a foot and half long bag? It reminds me of a sack of rice and not even as functional because you really couldn't carry rice in this now could you? Boy, we are not happy bag snobs lately. How do you expect us to be with bags like this shoved in our faces daily? As if the hideous design (or lack there of) is not enough, they stick a $3,000 price tag on it! (okay, I am exaggerating, it's $2850 but add shipping and handling or whatnot and you'll get pretty close to 3k.) Ugh! For that amount I can buy a REAL Chanel or a REAL Bottega and not some third rate knock off.
To buy and risk ridicule or just for a good laugh, Marc Jacobs Elsa woven leather bag available here. TGIF everyone, let's hope next week brings us an abundance of fabulous bags!

Now here is a simply chic bag you can tote to work or play! Anya Hindmarch's woven leather tote is intricately crafted and beautifully constructed. The flat shoulder strap will stay on your shoulder comfortably so you can leave your hands free for all the holiday shopping! This is definitely a classic that you will use for years to come. I like the contrast of the smooth leather details against the woven leather, it gives the bag depth and really shows off the unique weave. There is also a hidden magnetic closure so you don't have to worry about your things falling out. And did I mention the lack of chunky hardware makes it lightweight? Lined with soft black suede with functional interior and outer pockets, this may just be one of the best totes ever!
Anya Hindmarch Beverly shoulder bag $1,200. More details here!