Exotics

The beauty behind certain handbags is undeniable. Sassy and sultry, the Mulberry Ostrich Bayswater Bag brings together the beauty of exotic ostrich in a stunning purple hue. This specific combination is exclusive to Net A Porter, offering any customer with a radiating and stunning piece. The gold hardware gleams on the purple ostrich. The Bayswater design is not new, and has received its share of naysayers, claiming that this design is remarkably close to a Hermes Birkin. Yet, comparing the leather version to the new and re-vamped ostrich version is like comparing the night to day or the East to the West. The shape is the same, but the bag as a whole is entirely different. Some exotic handbags seem totally fragile and need to be cared for like an infant, but this handbag is meant to be used. On the sides there are hidden buckles to expand the bag, and there is a zippered and open pouch on the inside for storage. The color, the exotic skin, and the usability factor make this handbag utterly hot. Exclusively at Net A Porter for $3995.

Working with Python skin is not always easy, the scales can flake easily exposing the bare under color, which many times is black. Be careful with any exotic you own, especially python. Don’t throw the bag around, treat it gently, like you would any brand new handbag that you love and covet. Now, I am not saying it as fragile as brittle piece of glass, it surely holds its own, but that also depends on the designer. The design behind the Zagliani Metallic Python Clutch focuses on craftsmanship of the metallic silver python skin. The skin injected with silicone which helps it feel more luxurious and sturdier so that it is not as likely to contort. Yet the design still looks feminine and vintage inspired with the python feeling supple from the treatment. There is a soft pleat and a turn lock closure. The inside is lined in lush suede. 13″W X 6½”H X 4½”D. Because of the intricate detailing and treatment of the skin (injected by a dermatologist nonetheless!), the price is completely justifiable. Exclusively at Saks online for $1400.

Absolutely stunning, featuring the most coveted exotic skin, the hottest color, and a slim and trim shape, the Yves Saint Laurent Crocodile Uptown Bag has it all. Designed with stunning gray parent crocodile, this handbag is spiced up with gold tone hardware and its fabulous turnlock closure on the front tab. The double top handles are just what the season calls for, implements sleek and long lines. The interior divides, showing a side zip pocket and a cell phone pocket. Dimensions are perfect10″H x 14 1/2″W x 6″D yet the price may put you in shock. If you are one of the lucky ones, this handbag is absolutely a must-have if you have the right amount of money. Pre-order at Saks for $26,995 (as in more than most people make after taxes in a year).

While Miu Miu may be Prada’s younger sister with huge shoes to fill, she is filling them out beautifully. Clean lines and understated elegance, the Miu Miu Ostrich Tote exudes ravishing symmetry with exotic ostrich leather in a sophisticated gray color. The gold hardware gives the handbag a very elegant touch, adding the perfect shine for the lush gray ostrich. The lockable clasp at the front draws you in, as it is the focal point. And like I keep saying, having the option of a top handle or a shoulder strap is perfect for people who are practical, which we all should be. On the inside there are three compartments and a small zipped pocket. The price is high for Prada’s little sister, but keep in mind this is an exotic, and the overall appeal lures you in so strongly, that it truly is worth it. Completely lust worthy and sure to be a hit at NAP for $3360.

Still on the exotic hunt, it is important to help anyone who wants an exotic handbag to find one in their price range. There is always a multitude of options, you just need to look for them. Luckily, you have me scouring the web for new handbags and designers that offer products in a wide range of prices. While many of us lust after high end designer exotics, the prices make me cringe, thinking that a car is a better option. Forzieri offers a wide variety of Italian luxury brands, including many that sell exotic skins. The Ghibli Reptile Tote Bag is designed with Indian python skin and accented with brass studs and a zip front pocket. There is a long shoulder strap, which has the ability to be sized. I would throw this bag on over my shoulder and wear it day-to-day. The price is quite reasonable for an exotic, costing less than many Prada Nylon bags.

Buy through Forzieri for $1274.

Exotic handbags have always been a very important trend. Attempting to find an exotic handbag that fits the mold for you is always a challenge, typically the price getting in the way first. This handbag caught my eye for one specific reason; it resembles a very well known designer. The Bamford Ombre Crocodile Tote is made with an exquisite green/gray shade of ombre crocodile. There are top handles, a hanging key tag, and a drawstring top. While this bag does not look like an exact replica of a Hermes Birkin, upon first look it does feel reminiscent of one. The price is still exorbitant, but it is about half the price of a Hermes Birkin. Pre-order through Neiman Marcus for $16,500.

One of our favorite online boutiques, Lux Couture, is celebrating the opening of their Wellesley retail showroom by offering a great discount on all of their handbags to Purse Blog readers!!! Simply enter purseblog as a coupon code while checking out (or over the phone) to receive 15% off all handbags on Lux Couture!! This deal will be good through the 30th of September, so act fast. This is the perfect time to do early holiday shopping, or just be selfish and buy something for yourself!

Lux Couture offers a wide variety of stunning exotic handbags, showcasing an array of python skins in metallic hues, which are a huge hit for fall and winter. Just tell the folks at Lux Couture you are a reader of Purse Blog and they will take care of you. Always great service and great handbags!

Many clutches look very similar to the next. Small and handheld. Obviously this is the basis of a clutch, but I find it mundane to look at every clutch in a room looking like a sister to every other. Remaining small and handheld, the Armani Linea Python Clutch’s cylinder shape and python offer the perfect dimensions to set this clutch apart. There is not much else this clutch has to show, just a straightforward bag with an exotic skin and lovely shape. Lined in black lining, this clutch closes with an extended tab closure. Dimensions are 3 9/10″H x 12 3/5″W x 1 3/5″D. Both green and black are available via Neiman Marcus for $1925.

Neiman Marcus will continue to party like it is their birthday, because it is! The slew of NM exclusive handbags is a sure fire way to lure in buyers and let them know that Neiman Marcus is there to make their lives better. A fan of the faux-horn top handle from the beginning, the Yves Saint Laurent Ostrich Mombasa adds another dimension to make the masses drool. The body of this version is designed with supple gray ostrich, which makes my heart skip a few beats. Combining exotic ostrich with the hottest color of the season is a sure fire hit. The gold tone hardware is a luxurious accent along with the seamed body. Looking at this bag makes me think I just got off of an exhilarating African Safari and catches me like a deer in head lights. Via Neiman Marcus for $3695.

Jimmy Choo Crocodile Ramona

Jimmy Choo knows how to reel them in. Design a coveted bag that crowds of people have their hands on, get people talking about it, and then release it in exotic. Best way to make a huge sale. The Ramona has been all the buzz at the house of Jimmy Choo, and the release of the cognac Jimmy Choo Crocodile Ramona Bag will have people talking. A familiar shape is adorned with exotic crocodile and accented with gold-tone hardware. Staying true to the Ramona, there are no differences other than materials used. A double buckled top with an extended tab key closure are also found on the front. Dimensions are large, 11 4/10″H x 16″W x 6″D. For the Ramona lover this is perfect. I will rather use $14,000 towards a different exotic, my exotic Birkin fund, but this is a divine treat! Via Saks for $14,000.