Recently in The Latest "Snob" Bags Category

So excited to see new Givenchy bags! I have high expectations of them now so I am relieved that I am still enamored =) This picture makes the bag look boxy and briefcase like but you can see from the side view that it is in fact quite "sac" like - it's the tassels in the picture that's throwing it off. Structured hobos are not only all the rage but functional to boot. Over the shoulder of course is incredibly easy but who really wants a big loose sac? Eww, that actually sounds gross. The interior is compartmentalized and ultra organized, there is even a center zip divider. You want some shape, a bit of details and lots of personality and that's exactly what we have here. The textured leather adds character but is also easy to maintain - always a plus when you're spending two grand on a bag. And that's the bad news. I wish it wasn't so but yes, this bag is overpriced. At Barneys New York for $2075.

Now it's my turn to gush about Donna Karan bags. She is on a roll! Now I am really excited to see her Spring 2010 collection (we are going to her show!). Donna Karan is known for style and function, which is actually quite the difficult task when it comes to bags. Very few are as stylish as they are functional and vice versa. Depending on who you are, you lean one way or another. But I go both ways depending on my mood ;-) But recently I have become more pragmatic. Most of my bags are top handle bags, for the sake of looks it's the best way to showcase a bag. But I seriously need my arms and hands back! This Crosstown bag does what it says, allows you to criss-cross around town while looking fab. The hardware details on the strap is ingenious, it adds another level of accessorizing to your accessory - it's like a necklace! The gusset zips open to expand the bag and the exposed zipper detail adds interest, as well as, some attitude. Another huge selling point is the goat skin, which is lightweight and durable, so for the price this is an incredible buy, $995 at Bergdorf Goodman.

I'm all about the clutch now. I am trying to simplify my life and with that, a whole new thinking on bags. Why am I always carrying around so much stuff? Why do my bags need to be so heavy? What the heck is in my wallet that requires it to be so big? I am now using a zip coin wallet that has a few cards, my driver's license, cash and change. Lipgloss, phone, keys and maybe a small tube of sunblock - that's all I need, all of which fits nicely in a clutch. So, my new "bag lifestyle" requires that I get an investment clutch that will take me through years without consideration of trends. The Bottega Veneta woven cluth in karung has divided interior compartments for organizing long term use (not just one night). The karung is easy to maintain (versus leather which gets stained and cannot be wiped down) and the subdued Grape is neutral enough, yet adds happy color for an all black or gray Fall wardrobe. Like I said, this is an investment piece so the price concurs, but you might not. At Net-a-Porter $2,950.

Derek Lam Kashmira Clutch also available at Shopbop.com

UPDATE: Derek Lam also made this clutch in a luscious taupe/grey suede version for those of you who are too timid to do jaguar. It retails for $990 and has the same dimensions! Call Wayne :)

What is happening over there at Gucci? They are making Tina and I swoon like no other!! I walked in to Gucci last week only to discover that I am need of $15,000 to buy everything I want in there. I have seen the Jockey in leather but in an exotic, it takes on a whole new meaning. The one I really want is the ostrich but I can't get a photo of it so I guess I will have to sneak in there and take one myself. It is dreamy butter and oh-so-soft!! The python is also outrageous with the ginormous scales and every seam, detail and hardware is done with absolute perfection. And for this quality and a stand out bag that will always be cherished, $3550 is not that bad. But the ostrich is $10,000 so it's a bit out of reach. Did I mention it is dreamy?? It's been a while since I had a Scarlett O'Hara moment when I consider lying, cheating and stealing as a viable option to get what I want =) The python is available at Gucci online for $3550, I saw the ostrich at the Boston store when I was there so I know they have it, call 617-247-3000.

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!!!

And if you didn't get a chance to buy the Small Gotham Tote in organic distressed lambskin when I reviewed it, get it now! I've been using it daily and love it! I will be carrying it to meet Donna but can't decide if I should wear vintage Donna or new Donna. I have a few new things from the current season but thought it would be fun to wear my very first Donna Karan suit and get a photo with her in it. Maybe I'll bring a few things and change!?!? Would that be stalkerish?

Now this is a bow bag I can handle. Those Valentino with the massive bows is too theatrical and seriously hard to use on a regular basis. This has a simple loose on sided bow on a functional style that almost looks like the Fendi Peek-a-Boo satchel. It also reminds me of Miu Miu. I love it though, the playfulness is more of a wink than a shout. You wouldn't think so but this is incredibly versatile - it is just as great on a young 20 as it would be on a young 60 =) It comes with a messenger strap for cross body wear but the top handle allows it to be shown off properly. At Neiman Marcus for $1795.