Neiman Marcus debuts Spring 2013 pre-orders, including some great bags

Ever since the fashion industry started to open itself up a little bit to the Internet, the problem of timely commerce has been looming. If the general public can see and get excited about a collection in September, why can’t we sell it to them in September? How do we get around the fact that Fashion Week is no longer simply a trade show for buyers and editors, but a media event viewed by potential customers the world over? Trunk show startup Moda Operandi made a big name for itself in the industry by being the first online retailer to feature clothes, shoes and accessories for pre-order mere days after they graced the runways, and it was only a matter of time before other retailers looked for their piece of the pre-order (and full-price) pie.

Neiman Marcus is the first major retailer to step up to the plate with a limited-time pre-order push similar to Moda’s, and they’re trying it out with a selection of ready-to-wear, shoes and (most importantly) handbags from a selection of designers as varied as Alexander McQueen, Chloe and Reed Krakoff. The pre-order period lasts through October 10, and the handbags are scheduled for delivery anywhere from January to April. My pick of the lot? The gorgeous, simple, pool-blue Reed Krakoff Python Track Tote above. Check out all of NM’s Spring 2013 presale bags after the jump.

Marc Jacobs Antonia Small Satchel, $1395 via Neiman Marcus