And based on the looks of their first collection together, she’s a wise addition to the design process. The bags of the Carlos Falchi Graffiti Collection use Falchi’s signature tiger snake skins as a backdrop for punk-inspired doodling and defacement that is as true to its inspiration as any I’ve ever seen. These bags certainly won’t be for everyone and skew toward the young audience of which 25-year-old Kate is a part, but they’re very successful for what they’re trying to accomplish: a deconstructed, edgy look that remains luxurious and doesn’t loose its cool.

Bags will come in three patterns and will retail for between $395-$1195. The collection will debut at Bergdorf Goodman during Fashion’s Night Out on September 10. For larger pictures of a few of the collection’s bags (and to see the intricate graffiti detail up-close), make the jump.

One of the most interesting men in the handbag industry we have met will be celebrating 30 years starting tomorrow. Carlos Falchi began his journey 30 years ago when he moved to NYC. Since then his designs have continued to be top contenders in the designer handbag world, finding their way into the arms of celebrities and handbag lovers alike.

Tomorrow at Bergdorf Goodman a retrospective exhibition will feature reproductions of Carlos Falchi’s most beloved classics and his latest collection including one-of-a-kind designs inspired by his love of New York. The event will take place on the first floor of Bergdorf Goodman and go from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.. We have been huge fans of Carlos Falchi handbags and while we can not make the event tomorrow, we are excited to see the one-of-a-kind bags for Bergdorf along with the line of bags dedicated to New York City that he comes up with!

If you are in the NYC area this is an event you won’t want to miss. Carlos Falchi is one of the most interesting people to speak with, tell him we say hi!

Now that we have covered that, there is a perfect option for those of you who loved the idea of the hand-painted floral pattern but prefer it in a smaller bag. The Carlos Falchi Flower Flat Clutch is also designed with hand-painted flowers and has an optional chain shoulder strap. This is a thin clutch, but long and capable of holding night out necessities (12″W x 5.75″H x 1″D). The interior features a zip pocket. Again, this is a brilliant design from Carlos Falchi. A simple sleek python clutch with a burst of color, which is hand-painted. This makes the bag entirely different from any other in my collection and in most collections. Leave it to the genius, Carlos Falchi. Buy through Bloomingdale’s for $965.

One aspect that stuck out in my mind was Carlos painting on the skins, which would soon be formed into the bags. Carlos Falchi himself hand paints many of the skins and that is entirely unique. And one of the most interesting aspects about the Carlos Falchi Python Floral Sling is that Vlad and I saw this pattern being painted by Carlos while we visited him last October. This bag is exclusive to Saks and shows off colorful exotic blooms which were hand-painted onto the shiny white python skin. All Carlos Falchi bags are rather light, since Carlos is not a user of hardware, rather lets the skin and design stand on its own. This bag is perfect for spring. Light and airy, floral and colorful. There is a single strap with a 12″ drop along with inside pockets. Dimensions are 22″W X 12″H x 8″D.

Buy through Saks for $2790.

Looking for the next amazing Holiday present? I found it. Affordable and chic, the Carlos Falchi Shopping Tote is designed with python-print microfiber and metallic straps. The bag is lightweight, easy to carry, and slides over the shoulders perfectly. There is a magnetic snap closure and a removable faux python pouch. This is the brilliance behind the designer; he designs a bag with everyone in mind. As I mentioned, the other major perk is having this bag be light weight. A tote is a necessity in your closet full of bags. The practicality comes into play as well, offering inside side pockets, inside money clip, keyholder, and cell phone holder. Measurements show the bag is large enough for everyday use, 17″W X 15″H X 4″D. Available in black, brown, gold, and silver metallic at Saks for $220.

Carlos Falchi Slim Proof Hobo Pouch

Vlad and I are headed back to Florida today after a great stint in NYC. Our favorite part has been meeting all of the designers. We will be bringing you many designer interviews shortly. And one of those interviews will be with Carlos Falchi. His story is amazing, and I will leave it at that until we share more. And his handbags are amazing as well. While Carlos Falchi is known for exotics, he still has some microfiber bags and other materials that look astounding and have a much more affordable price point. One of my favorite snake-embossed microfiber bag is the Carlos Falchi Slim Proof Hobo Pouch. This bag is designed with Barbarella, the textured snake-embossed microfiber, which I mentioned earlier. This material brings volume to the bag and looks like snakeskin, without the cost. The hobo shape of this bag I adore. I saw it and tried it on in the showroom (in CROCODILE, drool) and have been hooked since. There is a detachable shoulder strap with a 25″ drop and double handles with a 5″ drop. The drawstring and slide closure is something I am drawn to; simple, hardware free, and casual-chic. On the inside you will not feel disappointed, as there is a zip pocket, cell phone pocket, money clip and key holder. Dimensions are 10½”W X 11″H X 5″D. Buy through Saks for $370.

Carlos Falchi bags are known for their exotic skins and bright bold colors. Carlos Falchi is not afraid to experiment with colors, which is evident from the
patchwork East/West tote we reviewed earlier this summer. So if you would like to be able to meet Carlos Falchi or see his designs, make sure to check out his trunk show schedule!

Sept 4-5: Bergdorf NY Trunk Show and Personal Appearance 12-4
Sept 19: Neiman Marcus Houston Trunk Show and Personal Appearance 12-4
Sept 20: Neiman Marcus Northpark Trunk Show and Personal Appearance 12-4
Sept 25: Saks Boston Trunk Show only 12-4
Sept 26: Saks Chicago Trunk Show only 12-4

First of all, let me start off my saying, Happy Friday! I am sure there are plenty of you out there right now counting down the hours, or maybe the minutes until it is officially the weekend. With the weekend drawing near, I thought to myself, what better way to get the weekend going than with this Bombe Python Flat Clutch? I am a sucker for clutches; I honestly just love them. So, when I stumbled across this clutch, I had to share it with all of you! Obviously, the color of the clutch, purple, caught my eye first. I love sporting a clutch that completely makes my outfit pop and I feel this clutch could definitely do that. Whether you are wearing the perfect little black dress or your favorite pair of jeans and a cool top, this clutch could complete your outfit!

Now that I think about it, I have spent many nights recently glued to my couch watching the 2008 Olympics (I am pretty sure many of you have done the same thing). Usually around mid-week I begin thinking about weekend plans, and of course, what I might wear and which bag would go with the outfit best. So, I think it is time for me to have TiVo record tonight’s Olympic events and go out on the town. Now, if I could just have this clutch to take with me, I would be that much happier. The snakeskin material, magnetic snap flap closure and zip inside pocket just make me want the clutch even more. Plus, I like options and this clutch has a golden chain strap which can be stored in the bag. I rarely find myself using the strap, but it’s nice to have options. All I need to do is save a bit of cash and I can buy this fabulous clutch through Saks for $875.00.

Carlos Falchi has been a long time favorite of mine, as his exotic handbags have caught my eye and always seem to end up in the more reasonable price range (as far as exotics go). Carlos Falchi is not the new kid on the block, in fact he has spent three decades forging his way into the fashion world. He prides his designs in the meticulous details and craftsmanship, along with exotic skins and an impeccable eye for a handbag that stands out. If you rely on your accessories to make your outfit, Carlos Falchi handbags are perfect for you. I have never been much of the flamboyant dresser, in fact, if you ever find me out and about there is a 95% chance that I am in jeans of some sort and a tee shirt. My handbags truly accentuate what I wear. The bold colors, skins, and designs make me and my outfit stand out, and not get lost in the crowd.

After getting close and personal with the Carlos Falchi Multi Patchwork Tote, I have a new love and obsession. This is the handbag that will allow me to always stand out, to always get that second glance, and all I need to wear are my comfy jeans and plain white tee. Funky and modern this handbag will have stay-power in anyone’s mind that sees it. But I do not think for one minute that all of you will love this bag, it is far too bold and colorful to meet everyone’s fancy. But there will be the group of you, who like me, is head over heels for this bag.

The colorful python blocks are offset with black chunky stitching. Colors including yellow, orange, red, green, blue, turquoise, purple, and pink grab your attention on this tote. The python skin is soft and not as flaky as others, with some blocks having larger scales than others. The double top handles are made with black python and they easily slide over your shoulder, or there is an optional orange leather shoulder strap. What I found the most functional is the inside of each Carlos Falchi bag, which contains a middle compartment separator, zip pocket, two pouch pockets, two pencil holders, and a key holder.

So now we must discuss any downfalls of the bag. I am not a huge fan of python handles on my handbags. The wear that your handles gets shows much quicker with python, and many times the skin begins to flake off, which doesn’t seem right when you are paying more for the skin. But I understand why designers keep the skin throughout and I do appreciate that these handles are black python, which will not show the wear as much as other colors. The shape is great for most, so no criticism there. The only other thing that will stand in the way for many is how entirely bold the bag appears. It does not just appear that way, it is this bold in person too. But I crave this, I yearn for this. I personally need the handbags that stand out and grab attention. My love of accessories came because I needed to accessorize. So for me, this was the first bag out of the lot that I was drawn to and the one that I will continue to want. The bag will cost $4,650 and will be found at Neiman Marcus around October of 2008.

Saks and Zappos also carry a wide array of Carlos Falchi Bags.

When many big name designers are pushing out leather hobos for over $2,000, it is time to prioritize. I refuse to buy a lifeless, uninspired bag because the designer name on the front. I expect quality, luxury, and a bag that will last me for seasons. In fact, many are straying away from the big designer labels to find the designers who will appeal over time and through trends. Exotic handbags are still a driving force in the handbag world, and designer Carlos Falchi knows precisely how to cater to this crowd. Carlos Falchi handbags implement exotic skins, chic designs, bright colors, and reasonable (for what you get) prices. I love the bright eye-catching green of the Carlos Falchi Small Shopping Tote! The color is bold and in your face, but perfect for spring and summer, and perfect for next spring and summer, and the next and the next. The top opens with a magnetic closure and there is a zip pocket, blackberry, and cell phone pocket inside. The inside is lined with microfiber, which has become the go to for couches and the like because it is lush and easy to clean. Dimensions are 14″W X 13″H X 5″D. Buy through Saks for $1295, which is very reasonable considering it is exotic python skin.

Carlos Falchi has always been a designer that I find very intriguing. While I find the man behind the designs interesting, the designs are able to speak for themselves. While he also uses leathers, Falchi employs the use of exotics to brand his name, showing us eye catching bags in python, ostrich and crocodile. But now I am drawn in by the demure Carlos Falchi Boat Hobo, whose sleek and slouchy design I find appealing. The shape is a typical hobo, which leaves the black python skin to do all the work. The shoulder strap is braided, adding another dimension. I am a little let down by the print nylon lining, only as I crave something more luxurious when opening this bag. The interior means business, with a key clip, two zip pockets, two open pockets, and two pen pockets. Buy through Saks for $2450.

As my mom and I browsed Saks today, she was drawn to an exotic handbag hanging from the mannequin. One look and I knew it was Carlos Falchi. She loved the python, the handle, the bunching of the skin. Next thing I knew a gal passed us by sporting a different Carlos Falchi handbag. It was like an eye-opening experience, well, kind of. I think many Carlos Falchi bags are hit or miss (a total hit would be the ostrich clutch!). The exotic handbag look is still a huge hit, and while the economy slumps, many handbag aficionados are checking out more affordable but still chic exotic handbags. I am not saying Carlos Falchi Large Python Drawstring Tote is exactly more affordable, but it still is cheaper than many of the huge designer house exotic bags. While this bag is available in both red and dark brown waxed python, the red is a sure hit. It adds the color spring is asking us all to wear and the exotic skin that we crave. There is a 6.5″ drop from the top handles and a drawstring top. The inside is lined in sumptuous microfiber and features a side zip, two cell phone pockets, and a key holder. Dimensions are 11″H x 13″W x 9″D. This is a handbag my mom loves; casual, exotic, and a little different from usual. Buy through Saks for $2,725.

Simplicity at its finest, this handbag looks so chocolately I could just eat it up. I have a thing for ostrich. And I think many people either love or hate ostrich. The leather is very distinct, yet in the right color and high quality skin the combination is divine. Upon first glance, I was lured into the Carlos Falchi Ostrich Clutch because the espresso color on the ostrich leather is smashing. The clutch is ultimately simple, merely offering a front flap on a rectangular body and an optional chain strap. It is great that some clutches offer the optional chain strap, but many times it simply is not needed. Many clutches look leaps and bounds better being carried in hand or under the arm, rather than dangling from a chain. This would be one of those clutches. The inside features a zip pocket and dimensions are 5 1/4″H x 11 3/4″W x 1 1/2″D. This bag is simple, but it works. Buy through Saks for $1,270.

A structured clutch is just as hot as a structured handbag. I am a huge fan of envelope clutches because they are simple, refined, and modern. The Carlos Falchi Crocodile Envelope Clutch shows off black matte Caiman Fuscus crocodile with a front flap. There is an optional chain shoulder strap, but with a clutch like this I would simply adorn my hand with its beauty. On the inside, there is a small zip pocket and suede lining. Dimensions are7″H x 14 1/4″W. For a crocodile clutch, I would not turn to Carlos Falchi first, but this is still a beautifully made clutch. Buy via Neiman Marcus for $1995.

And after red, comes white (duhhh). So for our first white bag of the day we have the Carlos Falchi Deerskin Double Pocket Hobo. Don’t give me a hard time, I know it is ivory, but it is close enough no? This hobo is made with supple deerskin leather and is put together with tonal topstitching and a woven shoulder strap. I love the simple front drawstring pockets. This hobo measures 12″H x 12.5″W x 5″D and is available through Neiman Marcus for $995.

If you have been wondering what gives on the lack of posting this week, I apologize now because it was my busy life taking away from what I really love to do. Having other things to do then writing about bags just bothers me more than you know. Who really wants to work? Not I! So after a short absence, I am back and even have a nice vacation planned starting tomorrow. Be jealous, be very jealous. Hopefully while on vacation I can even pick up a new bag or two or 586,904. More like one, and that is if I am *very* lucky.

If I had my choice of one new bag, I may be looking for an over-sized tote. The Carlos Falchi Super Shopping Tote is designed from smooth Italian leather along with exotic snakeskin and crocodile. The snakeskin comes together for the shoulder strap and there is an alluring crocodile flap closure with discreet magnet closure. Along with the supple leather, these two exotics show off the bag beautifully. Inside to add a little feminine fun there is satin floral lining and a zipped pocket. Overall this big bag measures 19″ x 19″ x 6″. I like how it is different for a big black bag. Buy it through eLuxury for $1595.

Big is Beautiful. That seems to be the new motto for this spring. Large bags are super trendy this time of the year, my guess would be the fashion industry is trying to sell you chic enormous bags to fit more in while going on your extensive shopping sprees. The truth is out there. Either way, the Carlos Falchi Super Shopping Tote has earned its right to carry the Super tag, considering its size. It should actually get its own category, as I don’t really see it fitting into the Totes category much. Truely remarkable!

The Super Shopping Tote is handmade of soft and supple Italian black leather, which is gorgeously highlighted with an exotic crocodile flap and artful topstitching. Though spacious, it comes along in an utterly luxurious fashion. The sublime tote finishes with a sumptuous satin interior in an elegant floral print. More exotic materials are crafted into the shoulder strap, which is made of snakeskin and has an 11 inch drop. Additional croc flaps at the base of the bag add even more luxe. Overall, this shopper comes for a reasonable price of 1,595 dollars, which is a steal when you consider all the exotic mats that were handcrafted into this beast of a tote.

Some of us are a little southern or have a little southern twang. Don’t tell anyone, but I’m kind of a country girl. Well, that is a lie. I’m quite the city girl, but I do like to believe I have a little country in me somewhere. If you like to think the same thing or if you are just trying to get in on the Western style vibe out there, there is a bag I’d love for you to look at. The Carlos Falchi Laser-Cut Tote has a rugged name along with its rugged look. This tote is crafted from pearlized smoke pebble-grain leather with red/rust/gold/green/and purple floral embroidery and some colorful whipstiching trim. It all sounds like a bit much, because it is a bit much. But for some this laser- cut scroll pattern tote may be just that country piece you have been looking for. I have the awful problem of being able to picture myself wearing so many bags with a few outfits, but the truth is there is no way I can afford that. With all its jazz, this bag may warm up to the country girl in you- or make the city girl in you realize why you like the city. Either way this bag can be purchased through Neiman Marcus for $795.