Botkier Handbags

Do any of you remember when “trolls” were all the rage? I would guess this was about 15 years ago or so, but needless to say, almost every girl I knew had their own troll collection. Trolls are little plastic dolls with bright fluffy hair and a gem for a belly button. Megs and I had our fair share of trolls and every time we would get a new one, we would focus on the color of the gem. So, it should come as no surprise that I had to write about the Botkier Gemma Tab Flap Hobo when I saw it. The jewel/gem-like hardware instantly caught my eye and as soon as I saw it, the first thing that came to my mind… TROLLS! But enough about trolls, let’s discuss the bag a bit. I truly like the shape of the hobo, but I am not so sure about the color of the bag. I realize Botkier is going for a modern look here, I’m just not sure if it is too modern for me. Actually, I have a soft clutch in the same gunmetal color which I completely adore, but I think that really works for me because it is smaller than this hobo. Like I said, I do like the shape of the hobo and the leather is sure to feel as smooth as it looks. I am a huge fan of magnetic tab closures and this hobo sports one. I am not exactly sure why I like the magnetic closures so much, but if a handbag I am interested in has one, the chance of me buying it definitely increase! All in all, it is a well thought-out hobo, but because of the color I’m still on the fence. Buy through Nordstrom for $675.

Botkier Handbags have become a household name. After meeting Monica, I began to await her fall handbags. The look for her Fall 2008 line is very, well, Fall-esque. With nylon that feels and looks like satin, in deep luscious hues, the bags are fitting for the fall and winter that is slowly coming upon us.

The first bag from the Botkier Fall 2008 line that we reviewed is the Botkier Stevie Convertible Satchel in burgundy nylon. Now this bag I loved for many reasons. First off, the East/West shape was the perfect size for my body. This is deemed the convertible satchel because of the option shoulder strap. I threw on the shoulder strap and found it perfectly fitting, and perfect for a woman on the go. This can be worn cross body as well, making it a great day to day bag as well. The bag is also very functional, offering an outside open pocket with a magnetic closure with two pocket compartments. A nice touch for your cell phone or keys, and the magnetic closure helps give some reassurance that you may not loose your goods. The inside has a zip and cell phone pocket with black Botkier canvas lining. Read the full review...

Who: Botkier Handbags and Purses
Date: June 19th- 22nd
Time: Thursday 10am-7pm, Friday and Saturday 10am -6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Location: 172 Mercer between Prince and Houston
Phone number: 646 747 4149
Discount: 50-70% off
Styles: Variety of Spring Summer styles and one-of-a-kind samples. And for the first time, Botkier Shoes and wallets!!
For example: Marysia, Isis, Frankie, beautiful handbag styles in leather with custom hardware originally $750 now $300, $695 now $275, and $350 now $150!
Kiss, Sofia, beautiful shoes styles in leather with custom hardware originally $475 now $195, $395 now $150
Samples of your favorite styles up to 70% off!!!

Last month Vlad and I had the pleasure of meeting with Monica Botkier at a Saks event. I have been wanting to meet Monica for months now (let’s make that years but I was not sure it would ever happen). This beautiful designer has made a name for herself in the accessory world, having her handbags seen on the arms of countless celebrities, carried in all of the biggest department stores, and coveted by many. We gave away a Botkier Sasha and I am still bitter that I did not buy one for myself. We asked Monica some of our own questions along with questions from our forum members. We will be bringing you more information on her fall 2008 bags shortly.

Click here to read the Q&A with Monica Botkier.

As Vlad and I spent time in NYC last week we realized one major thing: fringe is back for fall! I can not tell you how many designers are incorporating fringe into their Fall 2008 handbag lines. Fringe has been known to look ghastly, as many considered the Prada Fringe Bag to be from early 2007. But when done right, fringe can add the extra dimension that sends your bag into a statement piece that is still wearable and not over-powering. I have been a huge fan of Botkier bags and Monica, the designer behind them, is amazing (our interview with Monica to come soon!). The Botkier Bag that I am lusting after for fall is the Botkier Morgan Satchel in grape lambskin leather. This is the small version in the perfect lush color for fall. The supple grape lambskin leather is accented with gunmetal hardware. The top flap zipper opens to offer an additional pouch. I have a major grape crush on this bag and am looking forward to its arrival in June (this is from the pre-fall collection). Price will be $650 and you can inquire further through Botkier.

Botkier Frankie Satchel

Botkier bags have become a fan favorite in the handbag loving world. As the brand has developed over the past five years Monica Botkier, the designer, has kept true to her fans producing more hip and usable bags each season. Recently there was a release of Botkier shoes, which I look forward to seeing in person. The favorite of mine is still the Sasha (which you all went crazy over). I saw the Botkier Frankie Satchel at Saks last week and it immediately caught my attention. The bag contains all of the familiarities of Botkier bags, but adds a special touch with the silver patent leather. Now this patent is not the very glossy patent that we are used to, it is toned down a bit. There is also a detachable mini coin purse, which is always a nice accessory to add to your bag. The frame top gives this bag a dressed up feel and the braided detail handles gives a fun edge. Dimensions are 15″W X 11¼”H X 5¾”D . This is a great option if you have been looking for a little glimmer and spunk. $695 via Saks.

Botkier Sasha Mini Duffle Bag

The Botkier Sasha Duffle has been a fan favorite, including with myself. This purse is a practical and chic option for an everyday bag. And after saw mommie Angelina Jolie toting this bag, it became an even bigger hit. But why is it so sought after? That is easy, it is a great design; perfect size, great price, fun shape. The Botkier Sasha Mini Duffle Bag is just in time for the spring craving of bright colors, as it is designed with pink supple lambskin and the usual double top handles and removable shoulder strap. There is a front pocket and zip closure. Dimensions of the Mini are 12¼”W X 6½”H X 5½”D. If you are looking for a bag from a great designer for a great price, you should definitely check out Botkier bags. Buy through Saks for $525.

During Spring 2008, Botkier will be celebrating their fifth anniversary. Monica Botkier, the designer behind the bags, has experienced great growth and success with her handbag line. Her handbags have caught the attention of handbag lovers world wide, and are carried at stores such as Saks and Neiman Marcus and seen on the arms of countless celebrities. Many of you will remember our fabulous Botkier Sasha Giveaway (which is still one of my favorite bags ever!). As this is the case, Monica has decided to move to the next level and launch a Botkier Shoe line. Their inaugural shoe line will be composed of nineteen different styles; varying from chic sandals to retro ballet flats, glamorous hammered ring stilettos and mod, peep toe ankle boots. The Botkier shoes take on a varitey of colors, including beautiful bronze and copper metallics, nude snake skin, bright fuchsia, and royal blue. The prices range between $200-$500 and all shoes are made in Italy. I am looking forward to seeing the shoes in person and trying them on. Botkier has always delivered fashionable and practical bags, so their shoe launch is something to look forward to. Some of the shoes are available on Botkier online now. Make sure to check out Monica Botkier’s new venture and let us know what you think!

Click here to see a preview of the Spring 2008 collection!

Botkier Large Sasha Duffle Tote

The metallic trend is still here. Personally, I do love the trend to a certain extent. I am not one for carrying a huge metallic bag around, it is just not my style. I opt to bring in metallics in clutches and evening bags, rather than everyday totes. I would, however, consider bringing a metallic bag into my everyday mix if it is fun and more of a bag deal that a bank breaker. The Botkier Sasha was one of our biggest giveaway hits, with well over 1,000 entries. I loved it in black leather and the pewter patent leather is slowly growing on me. The Botkier Large Sasha Duffle Tote has been jazzed up for spring in pewter patent leather and silver hardware which gives the perfect metallic in a great shape and a good price. There is the option of the long or short straps, which is a major plus. While this bag is more of a deal if you are looking for a metallic, I can not say that I will be buying it. I suppose the big bag metallics are just not for me; they are too much for my taste. I will stick to my small handbags when opting for shiny metallics, but this may be an option for you. Buy through Net A Porter for $695.

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What: Botkier Sample Sale

Date: December 6-9th, 2007

Time: Thursday and Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm

Location: 70 Greene Street, between Broome and Spring

Phone number: 646 747 4149

Discount: 50-70% off

Styles: Variety of Fall/Winter styles, as well as one of a kind samples!!
Harley, Cairo, Sophie… Beautiful styles in leather with custom hardware with prices originally $725 now $300, $925 now $400, and $695 now $200.

Samples of your favorite styles up to 70% off!!!

Make sure to check out Botkier’s Holiday re-vamped website while you are at it.