I’m 23 yrs old and about a month ago started yearning for an exotic – (preferably crocodile, however python definitely caught my interest) so your recent post on the D’Angel bags had my attention. I’ve spoken to a few tpf-ers who purchased the bags in March, and was wondering if you had a chance to actually try on the bag and if you had any additional thoughts on it’s quality/workmanship. (We all know there’s no such thing as a free lunch!). I was specifically worried about the skin coming off on the handle where I would hold it in the crook of my arm and the tassle rope (from opening/closing).

As much as I’d love to buy an exotic, I know there were some concerns about “poor quality” and was wondering if you thought the bag would hold up to occasional wearing (perhaps day-long shopping trips twice a month) and still be usable 5 years from now. Note: I recently read the great thread on Parisian women’s fashion in the Chanel forum and it really made me emphasize more on quality and not quantity, which is why I’m trying to be so careful!

In addition, I was wondering if you had a color you would suggest. The Fall red didn’t seem as rich as the cranberry (I *loved* the cranberry and natural from spring/summer) and I was considering getting black as it’d be easiest to match and perhaps wouldn’t be as “flashy” as some of the other colors. However, I wonder if black python will end up just looking like python replica. As I mentioned, I’m quite new to exotics and would really appreciate your input on the black.

Thanks Megs!
Tiffany

Tiffany,

This is one of the most thoughtful messages that has come our way asking about a handbag. We appreciate it and have delved deep into this issue to answer it for you and everyone else who may be interested. Without being able to see a bag in person, try it on, wear it, one does not truly know the bag. I had reviewed the D’Angel Tia Tote but I did not own it nor had I even seen it in person. With your message, I realized that for such a great value bag it is of utmost importance to know what exactly you get for what you pay.

I got in touch with the designers of D’Angel Handbags, Vibri Wulandari and Dewi Sugiarto. I was in contact with Vibri from there out, asking about the bags and the quality. But asking was not enough as I said previously, and Vibri graciously sent us a Red Python Tia Tote to review ourselves (which I still have to this day).

The red is much deeper than I thought it would be, resembling more of what in my mind would be called cranberry. The bag is light, easy to get in and out of, easy to throw on your shoulder, and spacious. In all reality, the bag is a perfectly suited everyday bag in most ways.

When it comes to the python skin I was again pleasantly surprised. No offense to D’Angel, but when you see a price this good you think the quality may be lacking quite a bit (part of the reason many people have asked if this bag is really as good as it seems). You know what, it is no where near a low quality python. The handles have yet to ‘flake’ off and in fact, the python on the bag is very smooth and soft. My Tia Tote still does not show the flaking that I have seen on more expensive python bags. I can run my hands up and down the bag without disrupting the python scales and typically, on a low quality skin, the scales would coarsely move up and down with each touch.

The bag is a sure buy if you are looking for an entry level python bag. It is not just entry level, it is a bag that will last for a few seasons. How many, I am not exactly sure, but thus far the wear has been minimal for the usage. In fact, I would call this a must have entry level exotic. You will not be disappointed. I would definitely opt for a color rather than black, especially the purple available at Lux Couture right now. Get the bag while you can for a mere $600 at Lux Couture.

For more advice on the latest in designer handbags, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Hi Megs,

Just read on your post for Mimi on $2k for a work and day bag. I hope you can give me an advice too .

I am about to give birth to our first child (a baby girl) and I am looking for a big, everyday bag that can serve as a diaper bag as well. I do not want an obvious or real diaper bag, instead I would like a chic, trendy bag that can be an everyday bag too. I would like it to be light and easy to carry. I do not have much budget for this one, something less than $1000 will be really great. Do you have any recommendations? Thank you so much.

Widi

Widi –

I think I can help you out! First of all, congratulations on the baby girl! You must be thrilled. You need to be a chic and stylish mom that still carries a bag that is practical. My focus for you will be a large bag, most likely a tote or messenger, that will have structure and pockets for you to store all the necessities that motherhood brings. Another main concern is that you will need as many hands as you can get with an infant, three would be preferable but we need that you have your two hands free. So the goal is to find a light-weight, large, pocket/storage friendly tote or messenger. This can be done! I will give you a list of viable options and we can go from there!

Prada Vitello Daino Tote | $1,095 via Saks
You will see me continue to suggest a messenger style, and this Prada bag is altogether simple but practical. There is a detachable adjustable crossbody strap, a large interior with a zip pocket, and an exterior front zip pocket.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Little Tate | $158 via eLuxury
This nylon tote is available in cream and pink. There are a few reasons I like it. First, it is nylon. Nylon is easy to clean and even if you don’t want to spill or make a mess, it is inevitable. This tote will also be very light weight and has two outside side pockets (I am thinking a bottle can fit in it!) and an interior cell phone pocket, patch pocket, and zipped pocket. The price is far below your budget, which is always nice too.

Miu Miu Bow Convertible Satchel | $1,195 via Saks
We are a bit over budget here, but this bag is sturdy and practical. Amanda raved about this bag before, and I can see why. I love the removable cross-body shoulder strap, it will come in handy.

Foley & Corinna Jet Set Jr. Tote | $528 via Saks
I like this bag for a few reasons. It does not scream out diaper bag, but it is urban chic. There are double top handles and a large exterior, 10″ zip pocket, and two interior pockets. Overall dimensions are 15″W X 15″H X 5″D. Not sure if it would be big enough, but it is worth a look.

Marc Jacobs Classic Stella Messenger Bag | $1025 via Saks
I know, so many of the bags I am recommending are Marc Jacobs or Marc by Marc. The fact of the matter is the price is right and the practicality and usability is there. This bag features double top handles along with an optional shoulder strap. Again, you will need all the hands you can get. Why I really love this bag is the pockets; double front buckle pockets, front outside zip pocket, and inside cell phone pockets. I would definitely opt for dark plum.

Most of the handbags I picked are rather similar and similar in the color range. I would definitely opt for neutrals that can last for a while so that you get as much use out of the bag as possible. Don’t completely shoot down the option of a designated diaper bag though, some of only look like a diaper bag when you open them up. Most of all congratulations and good luck with your little girl on her way!!

Hi Megs,
So I’ve saved and can now treat myself to an ‘IT’ bag. Not enough for an exotic but enough for something around $2000. Given that this will have to be it until I get my next savings together, what would you recommend? I want it to be something that I can carry in jeans as well as in a suit to work. My wardrobe is mostly dark colors, OK black, it’s mostly black. And ideally, I’d like to be able to get at least a mobile, a magazine, a small water bottle, and a wallet in there. So what would be a good bag for me to invest in? Thanks!

Mimi,

It is great to hear that you have saved up and are ready to splurge. With $2,000 you can buy an amazing bag (or even two amazing bags!). Since you want this handbag to be roomy for work yet wearable with jeans during the day, I would opt for a tote. I find that even if you say you only want to put a few things into a work bag, you always end up wanting to carry more. This is why the best work bag option to me is a tote, a great carry-all bag. The beauty of a larger bag is that it can still be trendy and fashionable enough to wear during the day.

But I have a different suggestion for you, go for two bags! Who is to say you can not get an exotic with $2000? I am telling you right now, you can get a beyond amazing exotic handbag deal and a more “it” brand bag, all for right about $2,000. Let me tell you my picks!

Now I will start with the exotic. The way to go is with an exotic larger bag, that can still be worn to work but can easily make a statement by itself. And my new exotic must have bag (just got it in red and am going to do an extensive review) is the D’Angel Tia Tote. This tote is amazing, on so many levels, I can not even explain it to you! It is rather large, easily could be used for work, but it also is able to be dressed down for a day in jeans or dressed up for a night out. The best part is the price. It is merely $600 at Lux Couture. For fall, this bag is available in red, green, black, purple, and natural. The choice is up to you on this; all of these colors are beautiful, but I would actually stay away from black. Pick a color that pops (red is so sultry and purple is a royal choice!). I realize that you said you want to buy one bag, but if I were to spend $2,000 right now, I would split it up for an exotic and a great “it” bag.

So now you have about $1,400 to play around with. The thing is, this number is a little hard to go right about, but we can work it out, or come close to it. This choice it up to you, do you want more classic or more trendy? I always say stick with something that can last a few seasons, no point in spending all of your money on a bag that will look way last season in a few months.

YSL Large Muse | $1,395 via Saks
The Muse has been the trendy it bag but has kept its stay power. People still see this bag, recognize it, and love it. To me, that speaks volumes. It hits the body well and looks very mature, yet again, can be dressed down for day errands. And the color, lilac, is stunning! I am partial to purple, but if you love to wear black, this is dark but gives a great pop of color.

Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Passy | $1,410 via eLuxury
From Louis Vuitton, the Epi Leather line is one of my absolute favorites! It is relatively affordable but also logoless and easy to clean. The Passy is a refined shape and available in black, purple, ivory, and red. This bag will last you years, not just a couple seasons.

Prada Vitello Daino Tote | $1595 via Saks
Now Prada bags speak for themselves. The logo is well known and easily recognizable. I love how Prada designs totes. Many are simple, but they are wearable. And I am a huge fan of the metallic bronze, it will really make all your black outfits pop (it is also available in black though). This is a little over the price limit, but worth a look.

Mulberry Bayswater Bag | $995 via Net A Porter
This bag is not overly feminine, but the Bayswater is an ideal work bag. If you are going for recognizable, this to many is a well-known bag from Mulberry. Not to mention, you will have more money to save for a clutch if you opt for this bag!

Mimi, I hope this list helps some! The bags I chose for you are a bit more classic, but there are trendier bags to be had if that is what you want. If you are dead set on getting one bag nearer the $2,000 price range, let me know and we can re-hash this!

If you would like my advice on what bag to get next, please use our contact page and add ‘Ask Megs’ in the subject line.

Jennifer M asks:

Looking for bag…. I am just wondering if you know of anywhere I can still purchase the Marc Jacobs Hudson bag from? I know its old, but I LOVE it, and have been unsuccessful locating one. Or, if you know of a similar bag I might check out as an alternative?

Thanks!

One of the recent coveted Marc Jacobs bags was the Hudson. I covered the Marc Jacobs Hudson early on, and I adored it. I can see why you love this bag Jennifer! The bowler/top handle shape is easy to wear, roomy, and looks great on. The combination of the lighter colored leather stripes helped make this bag stand on its own. Problem is, everyone else fell in love and this bag has been sold out for a while. The Marc Jacobs Hudson was available in black and tan and cost $1275. But there are similar bags out there right now and an option if you still are dead set on the Hudson. If the Hudson is the only answer for you, you can check it out at Bag, Borrow or Steal. While I am not a huge fan of the renting a luxury good phenomenon, for some people it works great. And I *think* there is an option to buy some of the bags from Bag, Borrow or Steal (but I do not know exactly how that works). My next suggestions are a wide range of bags that carry similar looks and may bring a similar appeal, but are not the exact bag you are looking for. Hope this helps Jennifer! And if any one else knows how we can help Jennifer find this bag, please do post in the comment section.

Miu Miu Shine Bicolor Bowler Tote | $1,280 via Saks
This bag struck me first. Almost exact same price and the look is very similar; casual and laid-back but still edgy and fun. The colors are perfect for fall and winter.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Hobo Bag | $3,540 via Net A Porter
This bag brings a similar shape with the ultimate luxury. The woven leather is sumptuous and will withstand anything, and this handbag is timeless.

Alexander McQueen Flapper Novak Bag | $1,780 via Net A Porter
The new version of the popular Novak, the Flapper adds the outside pockets, the streamlined lines, and the top handle appeal.

Chloe Paddington Satchel | $1,800 via Saks
Chloe Bags have become ubiquitous with the Paddington. The revamped Satchel version adds structure and the funky padlock charm.

Mulberry Large Agyness Bag | $1,595 via Net A Porter
Fits over the shoulder and gives a little more slouch than the structured Hudson, but a great everyday bag nonetheless.

Salvatore Ferragamo Victoria Calfskin Satchel | $1,090 via Saks
Simple, and elegant, this black handheld bag is seasonless and well made.

*If you want to submit a question to Ask Megs, use our contact form and title your subject Ask Megs. I will be doing at least one a week from now on!

Hi Megs,
I just have a question for you about your opinion on something, because I’m trying to decide which one to purchase.
Do you think the classic Chloé Paddington or the Marc Jacobs Stam is trendier, more versatile, and more “in” this year?
Thank you! (=

-Amy

Amy, you do have quite the decision to make. The Chloe Paddington hit big the summer of 2005. So big, in fact, that I was laughed at when I called the Paris Chloe store to inquire if there was a chance that the seas would part and I could grab one. But Vlad and I tracked one down in Munich and got there just in time. The Paddington will always be seen as one of the igniter of “it” bag fever. The shape of the bag is perfect for everyday use, the problem is the weight. My Paddington literally hurts my shoulders, badly! I ended up taking the super heavy lock off, but it seems so pointless, as that is what makes this bag what it is: the LOCK. Even after I took the lock off, the bag remained heavy. You see, Chloe leather is very thick and weighs much more than many bags. As much as we do not want to think our handbag can take such a toll on our bodies, they do. Chloe has wisened up, and switched the locks to lighter, smaller versions which does take a bit of the weight off. Another major downside is the amount of fakes that have followed this bag. Unfortunately when something becomes so popular in the handbag world, the counterfeit market jumps in for the kill. You may not find this to be a turn off, but many do. The aspect of the Paddington that still has my heart is the functional shape, ample space, and funky appeal.

It is no wonder you like the Marc Jacobs Stam! The Stam would appeal to someone who likes the Paddington because it too has the funky appeal, the chunky hardware, and the stand out look. Many of the downsides of the Paddington are the same for the Stam though. The bag is heavier than most believe, and if you pack it heavily, the chain link strap will dig into your shoulder. On top of that, it is also counterfeited often. The Stam has also been part of the “it” bag brigade and has had an array of celebrity followers. The shape of this bag makes it stand apart, and while it hit its high point a couple years ago it is still going strong.

It comes down to what you want out of your bag. While some are sick of both of these bags, both took on the fashion world by storm. The Paddington had such a massive craze that many are sick of hearing about it. But Chloe continues to reinvent this bag to appeal to its customers. But when it comes down to it, I would steer you in the direction of the Marc Jacobs Stam. As much as I love my Paddington, there is something a little edgier about the Stam. If I went straight from work to go meet my friends for the night, the Stam transitions better. It is an older style, but still alluring and sought after. After years of carefully studying both of these bags and owning both, the Stam vibes better. If you would have asked me this two years ago, my answer may very well have been different. But now, I say go with the Stam! Good luck and enjoy your bag Amy!!

Marc Jacobs Stam via Net A Porter for $1550 and Chloe Paddington via Saks for $1,995. Also, if you are looking to add a little more spunk, opt for the Stam with Ostrich trim via Saks for $1550.