Recently in The Latest "Snob" Bags Category

I am attending a gala this evening (in a super fab blue Versace short flared dress) and am trying to decide what clutch to use. The awkward clutching while cocktailing is not the easiest feat to accomplish-- especially if one is also hungry and wants to swipe at the hors d'oeuvres trays passing by. I am really loving clutches with subtle convertible chains, so you can hang it on your shoulders leaving hands free to drink and munch (delicately of course). The rainbow sheen python clutch from Sang A would be the perfect bag for me this evening (but don't think Vivre does same day delivery). Not only do I love the 7.5" x 5" streamlined and geometric shape of the clutch, the removable rounded chain is not obtrusive nor is it heavy. I saw this at her showroom last spring and it has a soft pillowy texture to it so even if you want to actually clutch this rainbow hued python love, you won't feel scratchy or itchy. Sang A pillow python clutches $1,160 at Vivre.com

What about you, how do you cocktail clutch?

My expectations of Prada bags are so low nowadays that I'm excited just to see a boring old hobo with a zipper on it (even though it disturbs me how much it resembles Tod's hobo).  This is a basic that won't let you down, even if it's raining cuz if it's one thing I trust in Prada bags are its leather and durability.  The glazed calfskin (not patent) will age beautifully!  I've been buying Prada bags for 20 years and not one has fallen apart on me.  The easy hobo style comes back every year so it's also a good investment if you're looking for a bag under a grand.  Nice flat shoulder straps with secure zipped outer pocket and it opens to a big ol' bucket of a bag.  I'm leaning towards the sumptuous luggage brown but strongly suggest you use it with the backside facing out cuz that logo spelled out is almost as annoying as the triangle plate.  I know, I'm hard to please.  12.5"x10" will allow you to take it out at night without looking like a real hobo -- Prada Vitello Hobo at Saks $995.  Have a snob weekend everyone!  xoxo

Now here is a tote that makes sense and has good value, unlike the Valextra canvas tote for $1060. Yes, it is true you can get a canvas tote for $20 but if you look at the construction the breakdown in quality is obvious. This One Language tote is beautifully made, has a great design and is functional. It is 100% natural canvas with tight seams, perfectly turned corners, is sturdy and maintains its structure. It has a super wide gusset so is the perfect beach / pool bag. There is a smaller compartment for your laptop (comes with a laptop case that can be used separately), or for wallet and personal items. The interior is full of pockets for phone, sunscreen, keys, etc and unlike most totes, there is a covered flap that zips closed. Comes in 4 cute designs, I love the bicycle - cute, whimsical and epitomizes the carefree days of summer. At One Language Label for $110.

Dear Bag Snob,

Frustrated Snob,
Angela

Dear Angela,

Girl, I hear you!! I have to admit, I am pretty practical when it comes to electronics so I have just been using a neoprene sleeve as well (but it is hot pink!). Well, I have the perfect thing for you, finally a computer sleeve worthy of taking out and being seen! The Rebecca Minkoff Virginia Computer Sleeve in faux ostrich is quite fabulous. Not as nice as your Muse but certainly wouldn't be a drag when taking it out. It also comes with a shoulder strap so you can use any bag you want and just carry this along with you. At Shopbop.com for $150, totally reasonable if you ask me! I am so getting this for myself, as well. It also comes in black patent leather for $98 but is not as unique.

Love,
Bag Snob

Please forgive me for yet another studded tote. I am truly obsessed and it's not just because it's on trend this season. It's just that someone is pushing 40 and is sorely missing the good ole' days of the 80's! Bally's studded top handle hobo is an eye catching rock star worthy bag but I do worry about its weight. 36cm is fairly large for a leather tote but add to it a pound or two of studs and I may have to hire someone to carry it for me. I spend a lot of time in private Pilates sessions to undo the damage from my bags and very high heels-- now a reasonable and sane woman would just stop carrying heavy bags and wearing stiletto heels but hello-- no one has ever called me sane or normal! I guess an alternative would be the Bally zippered tote (I'll share that later) but it just doesn't have the same oomph as this one!

Bally Studded Top Handle tote is 1,800 euro/ $2,484 usd here.

Enough of what I think, what do you think? Snob or Slob?

In addition to the 'Globe' bag (in crocodile above, $18,500) there are a couple more bags I am coveting-- Loro Piana bags transcend time and trend so I don't even think about the season its from!-- the 'Bellevue' in sunny yellow ostrich ($11,900) is making me re-think yellow bags and the 'Coral' bag (35cm, $4,195) in calfskin is a must have for summer and fall. The perfect shade of luggage, it will complement a pair of white shorts or a creamy cashmere sweater, Loro Piana natch. All at Loro Piana boutiques worldwide.  Please call Susan for more info 212-980-7961. 

I went to the Tiffany / Vogue party for the introduction of the new Key Collection. I covered this event on Jewel Snob (yes! we have brought back Jewel Snob and it is all new and super exciting!!). I met Melissa George (Sadie Harris on Grey's Anatomy and Laura on In Treatment) at the party and she had the most stunning and adorable crocodile bag with ash colored topaz beaded strap. I was totally amazed when she told me it was by Taryn Rose. I only know of Taryn Rose for their sensible comfortable shoes, not their bags! If only their shoes were as cute at this bag, I would be able to walk and look good at the same time!! It is a simple flap bag with no logos or detail other than the strap, which of course makes the bag. I am in the process of contacting Taryn Rose to bring you more information about this bag and possibly an entire bag collection. I will do an update when I find out more!

Tina and I are on opposite ends of the love/hate for Ferragamo. I think I am just struck sick with love for the ankle strap platform sandals, I am completely obsessed but cannot throw down $2200 for them. And besides, it would make me a giant Amazon woman at 6'1". But this clutch is something I can totally do and probably will. How cute and versatile is this amazing thing? It is a good size and the balloon shape makes it roomy. The frame opens wide for easy access and also keeps the integrity of the shape. Comes in an off white for summer, or get the year round chocolate at Neiman Marcus for $950. Also comes in python.

I love the idea of a Harley Davidson but I'd be lying I ever said I would get on one. I would need it to be a little more comfortable, safe and posh. A pared down version, if you will. And the same holds true for motorcycle jackets. I don't want a Hell's Angel motorcycle jacket, I want like a stylized version from Balenciaga. You know what I mean. Well, this bag is like that. It has all the cool motorcycle style details but it fits right in to everyday life in the burbs. It is a boring bag without the little details, but that's all it takes to make hip and urban - a few grommets, zipper pulls and beat up chocolate leather. Sounds easy but the subtlety is where it gets tricky. At Browns Fashion for $930.