This bag, to me, shows that Donna Karan is now a major contender in the bag market. She is known for being practical and all that, her talent is turning something mundane exciting and this is just that. It is a shoulder bag with a basic shape and functionality, but the details - a simple knotted strap, overlapping flaps (which are actually exterior pockets) and the saber tooth hardware toggle that make this bag so cool and freaking stylish as all hell! She is not even following any current trends and that's another huge plus when getting a bag for everyday. It has a detachable shoulder strap allowing it to go from day to night. It is on the large side so is not good for night night but you know, a dinner and movie date. Beautiful nude lambskin with canvas lining. At Bergdorf Goodman for $1895.
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If you love Derek Lam's Elsa clutch, this Albertine clutch is a no brainer. If the Elsa was a bit too fussy for you, then here is your match. It has the same asymmetrical cut but with a streamlined design. Actually, this is more for me, just enough "something" to catch the eye but not so crazy that it becomes dysfunctional. The foldover part with zipper has a large compartment but its the frame with push lock closure that will come in handy for going out. The tassel might seem big, but I totally dig it, gives it some dimension and fanciness. At Barneys for $690.
I have been just hanging on to my love for YSL these last 2 seasons, pretending to "love" bags that were just ok. Now this clutch has totally rejuvenated the lust worthy-ness that is YSL to me. This clutch is freaking amazing - the clever use of the logo while being utterly subtle, the color and the textured treatment of the leather. OK, there is one thing you have to overlook here, this is "eel-embossed" leather and why anyone would emboss leather to look like eel is beyond me. Just ignore that part because the effect is actually cooler than eel, it looks like tree bark or something. Anyway, the look is cool and the shape is extraordinary. And the price, even better!! I am getting mine now so don't wait until you have to go on a list for this clutch! At Bergdorf Goodman for $575.

It was love at first sight for me and this Bottega. I love their classics but it's the classic with a twist that I always end up buying. This has the signature woven leather but the border and handles are lined with grommets adding an updated hipness. This one giant tote with no interior compartments, great for those times when you need to throw everything you own in it, such as sweater, books, extra shoes (flats for relieving those stilettos) and if you have tots, you will be the hippest and most prepared mom EVER! The pourpre (red) is a muted brick / clay red, not a bright red, so it is neutral enough to throw on with almost anything. The color is beautiful and absolute perfection. I am so in love with this bag, I can't even tell you how I am agonizingly counting the minutes until I get it. Yes, of course I ordered it already!! At Bergdorf Goodman for pre-order for $2,350. Will ship in February but it always comes much sooner.
Quiet luxury is what VBH is all about but sometimes even the quiet beauties need to pipe up and stand out for all to see. This envelope clutch has crystal details along the seams, a perfect way to show it's true grace. But it is still modest while making a statement. Too much bling is gaudy and tacky! The pewter python will go with just about everything making this the perfect all around clutch for all your cocktail and formal events. At Brown's Fashion for $2767.
You gotta have a red bag for the Holidays. But if you can't commit to a high ticket item, why not go frugal and hip instead? This Kooba Jagger tote is super saucy and the zipper detail is way cool. It does not require a rock 'n roll attitude (cuz honestly, how many of us do?) just your own style. The easy and functional bag is perfect for everyday, goes from office to dinner to weekends seamlessly. The zipper does work but the trapezoid shape aftermath is not desirable. Pretend it's just an aesthetic detail and keep it unzipped. At Neiman Marucs for $595.



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.
"Wake Me Up Before You Go Go" is stuck in my head because of this bag. I can't tell if I am in love with the bag itself or with the sentimentality of the 80's. I was in love with George Michael and was quite shocked when I learned that he played for the opposite team. Duh!! But I was not yet equipped with gaydar at 13 =) Michael Kors should have made a giant T-Shirt with bold black letters that says, "Choose Kors". How cool would that be? I would wear it with this clutch, I love the 80's high tech look and in acid yellow is obviously a bit tough to pull off on a daily basis, but in basic colors would be damn hot. But you would be surprised at how great a yellow clutch is, I have one and I wear it with black and white prints, blues and if I am in all gray, it turns sullen to happy instantly. At Neiman Marcus for $595.

Derek Lam's New Irina bag is a chic retro throw back look from the 70s but has a modern feel with its long skinny chain and whimsical tassels. Jessica Alba pairs the bag with skinny jeans and flats by day and a mini with tights by night-- so effortless! She's really becoming one my faves-- I was on the same flight as her to LAX from NYC once and she spent the entire flight walking her cute baby up and down the aisle! Love that she's a devoted mommy :) Black glove leather New Irina handbag $1,250 available at Derek Lam NY 212.966.1616
Derek Lam Irina Chain Handle Bag also at Barneys.













