Exotics

Call me naive, but when I began to truly delve into the world of exotic skin handbags I did not realize the plethora of treatments and finishes used to differentiate one exotic skin from the next. I am the proud owner of an alligator Hermes Kelly Wallet which features a matte finish rather than shiny. But there is a completely different treatment process for croc and alligator that I yearn after, which leaves the exotic skin with a suede effect. Bottega Veneta is a brand that carries out this process immaculately. The Bottega Veneta artisans soak the skin in water, then finish the treatment by pounding it out and then hand brushing each scale (surely like other brands do when adding this effect to a bag). This leaves the skin with a suede feeling which is like no other. The sueded alligator still offers the volume and dimension with a silky smooth touch.

I have not seen this done by VBH before, a brand that is known for their clutches, but the VBH Alligator Compact Clutch garners all attention with its regal violet suede alligator skin. The design of the clutch is rather simple, featuring a rectangular compact shape with contrast trim. The inside lining offers a glimmer of sparkle and a VBH plaque. The outside speaks for itself, amassing an understanding of elegance in its own right. I do not own an alligator sueded bag but I would love to, and will continue my search. Buy through Net A Porter for $3,600.

*Please note, due to shipping restrictions we are not able to ship this item outside of the EU.*

I will tell you a secret; to go on vacation and not go online is a real and true vacation. Don’t fool yourself with that laptop that you check only a few times, it takes you over and puts your mind back on work and all things ‘real’. Vlad and I, of course, had both of our lap tops in Key West but we ran into two glorious problems: our hotel did not have internet and Starbucks internet was so slow we could not log on. This meant deciding that the work could wait and we would truly vacation. I didn’t even sneak my iPhone to check the internet (ok, maybe once or twice). So what if I came back to over 400 emails? The vacation was a relaxing time with my family, as we all celebrated my grandmother’s 82nd birthday. Now that we are back from island time and back to civilization, with high speed internet streaming throughout the house, I am feeling a tad overwhelmed and behind. But for some reason, it does not bother me. Read the full article...

Zagliani Metallic Python Clutch

Last week, dear readers, I told you all about the Kooba Ashley in metallic python print and how it managed to miss the mark, despite a number of things (the gorgeous color, my soft spot for Kooba, etc.) working in its favor. The commenters mostly agreed; the consensus seemed to be a firm “…eh.” Since then, I’ve been casually looking for another metallic python bag with which to compare it. Hey, maybe the Kooba people (or at least their interns) read this blog, and maybe they could use a few suggestions on how to improve. The Purse Blog: not afraid to be servicey.

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Jennifer Alfano Clutch

Vlad and I had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer Alfano back in the fall, and the one bag from her that completely stole the show for me was the Jennifer Alfano Oona Clutch. I remember sitting in her office and I kept trying to keep my focus on our interview and not swivel my chair around to gaze at the beautiful bags. The Jennifer Alfano Oona Clutch stands out for many reasons, starting with its regal shade of purple ring lizard skin. I am always drawn to purple, well, because it looks great on me! But purple is a shade that looks great on many and most people, it is feminine yet sophisticated. Ring lizard showcases a pebbled texture that ever so slightly gives the purse a new dimension. The oval snap closure adds the perfect touch without distracting. The shape is that of a wallet, but lately I have found myself using my wallets as clutches, which has been perfect for me. The inside of this clutch features a front pocket as well as a rear zip pocket. Dimensions are 11”w x 5”h. I found myself lured in by this bag from the get go, everything about it screams my name and has called me to it. And now I see it marked down and it becomes harder and harder to resist! Buy through Lux Couture for $1,137.

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The Pauric Sweeney Python Shoulder Bag has been a hit handbag long before the likes of Lindsay Lohan carried it (in my book anyway). There is something so overly simple yet intriguing about the Pauric Sweeney Overnight Bag. But the simplicity is what defines the bag, leaving the exotic black python skin to do all the talking. The brown leather handles with oversized stitching somehow add the perfect finishing touch. The handbag seems too easy but this is what makes it great. Sometimes all the extra add-ons are not needed and distract from an otherwise beautiful bag.

This bag is also available in gold and Anthracite python. Buy through Net A Porter for $2,860.

Seril Python Knockout Clutch

Seril handbags have been a hit in the accessory world before. The edgy appeal and the inspiration found by brass knuckles makes the Seril Knockout Clutch a funky wild child. And which wild child took a liking to this clutch? Angelina Jolie, the mommy and Goodwill Ambassador by day and wild woman by night. The Seril Knockout clutch is not new to the scene but is having a formal introduction on Purse Blog now. The simple leather version was what Angelina opted for, but I want this edgy clutch even edgier, and this is why I am showcasing the python and ostrich version. And to prove the worth of these clutches, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC has made the Knockout Clutch a part of the permanent collection of their Costume Institute. The idea behind the bag is what is truly alluring; the thought of a purse being molded after brass knuckles. Brass knuckles seem to have such a negative connotation, but when you combine the perfect finger holes, the appeal of a clean lined clutch, and an exotic material, you truly have a knockout! The ostrich version is available in black or grey ostrich for $1245 and the blue python version is available for $617. To order call 323-277-3886 or check further online at Seril.

Images of the ostrich version after the jump...

Sang A River Square Tote

When Vlad and I attended a Hermes event a few months ago a different designer was on my mind. Sang A. The reason being I saw a girl carrying the stunning Sang A River Square Tote in the perfect python honey-hue and I could not get it off my mind. The other reason Sang A was on my mind is because she was at the event. I had seen photos of Sang A online before so her face looked so familiar but I did not go and say hi. We emailed later and turns out it was her! So at the Hermes event, where my mind started off focusing on Hermes handbags, I found myself drifting off into the world of Sang A. This former actress and singer from Korea has created quite the buzz around her line handbags. The colors are rich and the skins are high-quality. The Sang A River Square Tote has always been a favorite of mine; it is a mixture of perfection and simplicity all rolled together. Python skin tends to be lighter and looks stunning for an everyday bag. Sang A has the River Square Tote available in a variety of skins and colors, but the sunshiny appeal of the honey python has captured my attention and kept it. The gold hardware adds a slight shine next to the matte python. The inside continues to show luxury with satin lining and two pockets. Measurements are 12″ x 11″ x 3″. Since I first laid eyes on this exact bag in this exact color my heart melted, and my heart continues to yearn for this exact bag. Buy through Vivre for $2,450.

Stay tuned for much more from this designer!

Carlos Falchi Small Shopping Tote

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 Boat Hobo

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.

VBH Python Box Clutch

Vlad and I lucked out amazingly for our trip in NYC this week with the weather. I am talking about weather that makes Florida right now look bad, as Florida is a tad too hot already. It was mid 60’s, sunshine, a mini breeze, beautiful tulips, blooming trees, and blue skies. Apparently this weekend it is supposed to rain. That must mean those in charge of the weather gave me a treat, especially after my health scare last week, which was much needed. The typical New Yorker black has finally transitioned into some pops of colors, which I love. I wore yellow jeans and green pants and paired them with and orange scarf. I kept my tank tops basic solid colors, but I was so wishing I had a funky handbag to carry around. It is all about multicolor this spring. We have the Louis Vuitton Watercolor Speedy (officially due to arrive May 1st) and the Fendi Rainbow Clutch (which is sold out at Net A Porter but also due to arrive shortly in boutiques). Now we have the glorious brightly colored VBH Python Box Clutch which also has my heart. The dyes are like the perfect tie-dye shirt ever made, bright and bold but mixing together wonderfully. This is the accessory to dress up an outfit. But don’t get on the ‘what were they thinking list‘. Pair a bold accessory like this with solid pieces. I am actually a little bit obsessed with this bag, just as much as I am obsessed with the weather NYC gave us this past week. Buy through Net A Porter for $1250.