An eye catching evening clutch for a holiday party will definitely put you in a party mood. Add some sparkle, just a touch. Moderation is the key to not looking like you are trying too hard. Pair the gold accessories with solid colors such as black, charcoal gray or perhaps even fuchsia if you dare. But most of all, have fun with it and rotate your gold toned accessories with various outfits, perhaps add some classics to your handbag collection in shades that are hot right now, including a shiny metallic gold, an antiqued gold and even a bronze finish. This would make a great statement piece though!

First up is the sweetly dramatic Giuseppe Zanotti gold leather gathered stone convertible clutch (top, $930 on Bluefly.com). I love the red stone and the gathering detail, but am not so sure about the little ties hanging out at the bottom of the purse? Or if you are a fan of python, what do you think of Kara Ross’s “Nero” python clutch (middle, $795 at Net-a-Porter). The metallic finish python is exquisite, but the silver toned plate on front seems a bit irrelevant and unnecessary. But my favorite is the Rafe New York Washed Metallic Flap Clutch (bottom, $354 at Zappos). The distressed metallic leather clutch is sized generously at 13-inches long and 8-inches high. This curved envelope clutch features a top flap with a subtle push lock closure. On the inside you’ll find a pocket to hold your essentials for a night on the town.

via The Find

Quilting can also be seen on accessories like this Stella McCartney Wide Quilted Waist Belt (upper left on model, $525 at Net-a-Porter) and of course winter puffer jackets. Embroidered patterns are laid out in vertical and horizontal patterns overlap to create diamond or other patterns that add dimension and texture.

We’ve spotted some of our favorite styles that incorporate the quilting trend. Juicy Couture’s Serena Quilted Duffel Tote (upper right, $198.00 at ShopBop.com) is constructed of nylon and has plenty of room to store your essentials inside 3 zip front pockets and two interior patch pockets. The double rolled handles; ruffled banding and Juicy Couture logo charm give this bag a youthful appeal.

Already on its way to becoming a classic, the Marc Jacobs Women’s Quilted Bruna Satchel (middle right, $1,295.00 at Bloomingdales.com) is shown in black leather and features double handles and gold tone accent hardware. This quilted handbag is tied up with a front belt accent, Marc Jacobs logo, zips closed and is embellished with a faux gold tone turnlock.

Balmain’s runway looks continue their influential appeal with this Mat quilted leather bag (bottom right, $1,915 at Net-a-Porter), which is quilted in Italy and assembled by hand in France. Tory Burch’s wearable modern classics are inspired by the designer’s globetrotter adventures. The Tory Burch Quilted Nico Tote, (bottom left, $295.00 at ToryBurch.com) is made of coated quilted poplin. Options for handles include both cross body and dual leather handles. Inside you’ll find two pockets and one side zip pocket just the right size for stashing your keys, phone and other essentials.

via The Find

Now that my daughter is in pre-school I find I have to carry many more items while we rush out the door in the morning. I need a practical stylish tote with plenty of room for snacks; hand wipes and sippy cups. A chic and roomy brown leather tote will perfectly match my chunky cashmere sweaters and Burberry trench.

I’ve found a few styles that I am considering. Dolce & Gabbana Miss Night & Day Tote, (upper left, $1,695.00 at Saks.com). I love the simple but sophisticated design, extra roomy interior. Another plus is soft as butter leather with top ruching and chain-link and leather shoulder straps which make the bag extra durable. On trend with a studded design, the Rebecca Minkoff Stud Devote Glazed Leather Tote (top right, $695.00 at NeimanMarcus.com) has a sturdy shoulder strap and a slouchy silhouette, which I love. The Francesco Biasia Allison Tote (bottom right $568.00 at Bloomingdales.com) is made of a soft glazed leather with double handles AND a detachable shoulder strap. The classic shape of this bag will last me for many seasons and will keep me organized with an interior zip for my keys. There is a cell phone pocket as well so that I don’t loose my iPhone into my bag’s black hole never to be found again. Last up is the MICHAEL Michael Kors Uptown Astor Shoulder Tote in “Luggage” brown, (bottom left, $448 at MichaelKors.com). Another roomy tote with a top handle and shoulder straps for multiple looks. This bag has stud detailing as well, but more subtle than the Rebecca Minkoff Stud Devote. After careful consideration my top pick would be the Francesco Biasia Allison Tote, the classic lines will go well with my favorite Vince cashmere cardigan.

Well, we have a lovely update for you about all the amazing stuff going on with Katherine Kwei and her line. I love getting a chance to speak with designers and hear about the latest and greatest. It’s as if I am dishing info with a close friend! And since you know me and what a hard time I have keeping secrets, it’s not a coincidence that I am sharing this update today.

I had to peak your interest a bit because we will be giving away a gorgeous Katherine Kwei bag which kicks off this coming Monday! Make sure to come back to hear how you can win!

Now for the update from the lovely and gracious Katherine Kwei herself:

Since our last interview a lot has happened. We have expanded our line using new materials, such a straw/wicker and cotton canvas, as well as small leather goods such as wallets, key chains and charms. We are going forward with an ‘edtions’ line which are 30-40% lower than our traditional pieces and this will be fully launched for AW10. We have added more celebs to our list of fans to include Eva Mendes, Maria Menounos, Jessica Szohr, Blake Lively, Taylor Momsen, Olivia Palermo as well as Jennifer Lopez, and Eva Longoria.

For SS10 we took most of our inspiration from Bali, as I just got married there last year. We used a lot of pinks, all shades from hot fuchsia to bubble gum to a pale fleshy flushed pink. The pinks reminded me of the beautiful Frangipani flower that surrounded us. We have a ‘batik/tie dye’ print that is one of my favourites as Bali is famous for their batik work. We also took inspiration from the repetitive detailed pattern seen in batik prints which can be seen in our Gia and Donna clutch line with the Swarovski crystal pattern. We also added some more animal prints in python and leopard (my favourite) in our Isabel line. We brought back our Edna line which Blake Lively wore all the time and even added a ‘Edna Sport’ line which is more casual, in canvas and a lower price point, which has been very successful. Our Joyce line is well received as the price for our Carry-All (largest bag) is $625. Finally we have added a small leather goods line, Clea, which has a zip wallet, mini purse, coin purse and key chain retailing from $185-$100. Great gift items!

The problem with Chanel, though, is that for better or for worse, they have a lot of aesthetic history to consider when a new collection is designed, and Lagerfeld usually chooses to acknowledge that history. What that means is that mostly, Chanel doesn’t innovate. They do something different here and there, and a lot of their bags are quite lovely, but rarely do we see them starting new bag trends.

I don’t know if that’s a positive or a negative – it just sort of is. If you like their aesthetic, then I’m sure you’re completely fine with what they do and how they do it. If you don’t, there are plenty of alternatives on which to spend your money. There are a few unexpected things in this accessories, but mostly it’s just the same bags we’ve seen with slightly frayed edges. I can totally understand if that’s what they want to send to retail, but I also can’t help but wish Lagerfeld & Co. would embrace the fantasy of the runway a little bit more in the accessories department.

                                            

Images via Style.com.

How does everything work? Head over to Linea Pelle and start shopping! When you go to check out enter the promo code and there you go.

Spend $30-124.99 and receive 10% off with promo code PURSEBLOG2.

Spend $125 or more and receive $15 off with promo code PURSEBLOG3. Even better yet, this is good through December 1st, 2009. Get something for yourself and maybe pick up a few gifts for others!

Zagliani is known for injecting their handbags with silicone to add a super buttery feel to the bags. This is true of their python and crocodile bags. But what would make a suede bag from this line special?

I would assume the suede is super soft, as the brand continues to strive to be known for the way they finish their bags. But suede is suede. Soft to the touch but hard to care for as it shows wear and gets dirty easily. I am trying to decide my thoughts on the Zagliani Suede One Handle Bag.

The actual design of the bag has a very Hermes/Fendi look. I typically prefer two handles on my bags, not one like this Zagliani bag has. However I do find the bag to have a laid back downtown feel. There is a pouch pocket with a twist fastening that sits in the front and deep pockets that sit at the back of the lining. The brand is known for their super soft python and crocodile, so I wonder if their suede is unbelievably soft as well. Buy through Browns for $1,764.46

What do you think: Worth the price or over-hyped?

Some of my picks for beautiful blue handbags for fall are pictured above (from top left, clockwise). Jimmy Choo’s Large Odetta Ponyskin Bag (buy through $3,295 at Net-a-Porter) is detailed with gold-toned hardware and contrast “elaphe” snakeskin straps. On the interior you’ll find patch pockets for all of your essentials and a contrast suede lining with lilac trim. Matt & Nat’s blue crinkled Kala Pool Oversized Zip Clutch is priced right for the stylish Recessionista (buy through Bluefly for $111). The crinkled pleather exterior is complemented with brass-tone hardware studs and zippers. This mini-bag will keep your iPhone at the ready with interior pockets. Halston’s Henry Small Suede Clutch (buy through Net-a-Porter for $1,395) is made of buttery blue suede and sculpted with a double pleat on each side. The matching wristlet strap is wide and flowing, making it the perfect evening-out handbag. I especially love the pewter-tone link hardware, signature logo lining and small interior pocket for safely stashing keys or lipgloss. The Chloé Heloise Satchel (buy through Nordstrom for $1525) is made unique with its braided double leather straps interwoven with gold accents. The lambskin exterior also boasts four pockets and features a zip top closure. A beautiful shade of indigo, this Chloe bag is at the top of our ‘most wanted’ fall shopping list.

via The Find

I can’t be the only purse fan that’s also a football fan, surely, and this being Friday and all, I thought we might briefly explore where fashion and football collide – game day attire. More specifically, game day handbags. You have to carry your stuff in something, and you always want it to be chic and match the colors you’re wearing, even if you’re sporting a combination that you would never wear if you weren’t supporting your team (royal blue and orange, anyone?). This isn’t just true of college football; it’s true of all sports for fashionable female fans, but this is the only sport I care about, so there’s no time like the present.

If you get a little creative, there’s no reason you can’t find something that can do double duty as a game bag and something you can wear outside of a sports setting as well, as long as you’re willing to keep a close eye on your purse while tailgating and cheering. I’ll make some bag recommendations for my own alma mater and a couple of the country’s other big football schools, after the jump.

Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity Flap Bag, The University of Georgia Bulldogs
Admittedly, red and black is one of the easiest school color combinations in the country, and we take advantage of it from our earrings to our toenail polish while dressing for football games. This bag is a medium size, which is ideal for football – big enough to hold your stuff without being too big to lug around all day – and it fits easily on your shoulder for stress-free carrying while in the stands (please, I beg you, unless you’re in a luxury box, don’t put your bag on the ground). I deduct points for the fact that it’s made of felt – it’ll stain if you get a little too excited and spill a bourbon & Coke on it. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1495.

Mulberry Daria Hobo, The University of Texas Longhorns
Alternately, orange has to be one of the most difficult team colors to dress with, particularly considering that every orange school has a very specific shade that they find acceptable. As best I can tell, this particular bag would be most appropriate for the slightly burnt orange that they prefer in Austin, TX, and proper team support becomes even more important when you expect your team to be playing for a national championship in a few months. The Daria Hobo fits the basic requirements for a game bag – it’s in at least one major team color, it’s fairly lightweight, it’s not too huge, and it can be carried on your shoulder. It also has the advantage of being leather, which means it’s less likely to stain than a fabric bag. Buy through ShopBop for $995.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Twisted Q Lil Riz Hobo, The University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish
I hate Notre Dame, so I was tempted to find the ugliest handbag I could find in one of their colors (or better yet, plaid or something), but having Charlie Weiss as a coach appears to be punishment enough. So instead, I fount one that almost exactly matches their team’s home-game pants. At this point, the trend should be clear – easy-to-carry, lightweight leather shoulder bags are your best bet for both inside the game and for regular wear during the off-season. Buy through Nordstrom for $428.

Alexander McQueen Houndstooth Tote, The University of Alabama Crimson Tide
My mom is going to hate me for including this one. She’s an Auburn alum and Auburn/Alabama is one of the bitterest rivalries in all of college sports, maybe in all of sports, period, but I have to give credit where credit is due. Alabama’s love for houndstooth is one of the coolest fashion statements that I’ve ever seen from a sports fan base, and they do it all because of the houndstooth fedoras of legendary coach Bear Bryant. If Net-a-Porter were to look at their records, I would guess that they have already shipped a number of these bags to wealthy alumni in and around Alabama that may or may not actually have any idea who McQueen is. Not that it’s impossible for Southerners to be fashion-conscious, obviously; it’s just that in the pursuit of all things houndstooth, designer labels are really not the point. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1995.

One notable big-name school that I left out is Ohio State – Megs, Vlad and Shannon are all Buckeyes, and perhaps one of them will grace us with their OSU bag pick in the comments.

The influence of the ’80s revival continues this fall and we are coveting the sizzling hot hues, especially neon pink paired with black. Remember black is the NEW black for fall!

Break up an all black ensemble with some fun neon pink accessories. The dramatic contrast of neon pink paired with black will add a fresh twist to your fall wardrobe. Pair a hot pink cashmere cowl neck from Michael Kors with skinny black jeans. If you’re looking for just a dash of neon pink try a few accessories instead. For example add some pop with a hot pink accessory such as a Marc Jacobs tote, neon pink flats, Carrera “Endurance” sunglasses or this cheeky leopard print clutch by Jimmy Choo. With these brightly colored accessories you are sure to be in the “Pink” with style this fall!

Michael Kors is now offering free shipping with a coupon code found here.

via The Find

Beginning with the Studded Tote with gold hardware and double rolled handles comes with an adjustable leather strap making it perfect for a daytime bag for the office. Next up the Leather Studded Messenger Bag is also made of a luxe vegetable tanned leather and features a cross-body strap as well as a front flap and interior pockets with space for a cell phone and other essentials. The Tory Burch Leather Studded Shoulder bag has a detachable strap for converting into a clutch and makes the ideal daytime bag. The Studded Flat Wristlet adds a petite dash of stud embellished cool to evenings out, Lastly the Tory Burch Studded Vet Tan Leather Satchel a fabulous roomy bag is bound to be your go-to bag this fall. The entire collection is reasonably prices from $235 for the wristlet up to $595 for the satchel.

Shown top left to right clockwise:

via The Find

The stitch detailing throughout is gorgeous. This is a look that can be executed perfectly on a small bag like this one. Now, add the chainlink handle that is woven with grosgrain ribbon and boasts a floral crosage and this look is just perfection. And you know me, I love when handbags can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you see it right now or not, this bag is actually rather versatile. A clear favorite would be pairing the bag with one of your fancier outfits. However, I’d love to sling it over my shoulder as I wear a pair of boyfriend jeans and a white t-shirt while letting the bag speak for itself. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1240.

The gunmetal color offers the perfect tinge of metallic which continues to be a must have for a handbag collection. I am feeling at a loss for words, because I just adore this bag. The gold-tone chain and leather shoulder strap gives a shabby chic vibe, that it totally rocking in my book. I just want it. I don’t need it, but I want it. Really badly. It will rock skinnys and a tee during the day and dress up your LBD at night. I attempted to put place myself on a handbag ban, but I could cave for this Lanvin bag. Buy through Net A Porter for $1915.

Taking studs to the max, Sonia Rykiel covers one entire side of her clutch with circular studs and tops it off with a tassel zipper pull. The Burberry studded plates clutch is a bit more subtle with an elongated zip clutch touting black on black studs for a more subtle translation of this handbag trend. The Treesje London clutch combines shiny patent leather and touts a cool graphic edge with randomly placed round flat studs. Pair any of these studded clutches with a pair of destroyed skinny jeans, loose oversized tee and cage sandals for cutting edge look. Or to dress up your evening look, a LBD would complement a black leather studded clutch as well.

Shown here from top left clockwise:
Botkier Moto Clutch, $395 at Zappos.
Kettle Black Studded Peace Clutch, $136.50 Sale at ShopBop.
Sonia Rykiel Studded Leather Clutch, $400 at Net-a-Porter.
Burberry Women’s Studded Plates Leather Clutch, $556.50 at Bloomingdales.
Treesje London Clutch in Black Patent, $106 at Revolve Clothing.

via The Find

We have all been doing it. Sitting here getting rather bored with spring and summer bags and waiting patiently impatiently for the fall and winter bags to arrive. Net A Porter wants to give us a sneak peek, letting us know that new bags will be on their way and sharing a few of them with us. The array of designer handbags includes a cream python Chloe Paraty, a Bottega Veneta intricate number, the Alexander McQueen Knuckle Buster Clutch we featured this week, a studded Louboutin clutch, and a funky McQueen foldover bag with a glove attached among others. All I can say is FINALLY!

via The Find

LeSportsac’s durable fabrics, whimsical prints and modern palettes are always a great combination. The LeSportsac Leigh bag in silver is no exception. The oversized profile and lightweight ripstop fabric make this tote the perfect tote for carrying all of your summer vacation essentials. The interior is made of 100% nylon. That is it won’t be ruined if you accidentally forget about your wet bathing suit from last weekend. The rolled handles and wide shoulder strap make climbing up the hundredth step to your hotel in Cinque Terre a breeze. We also love the metallic silver color which makes us feel like a real jetsetter.

via The Find

We are loving so many Lanvin handbag styles this season. Our obsession du jour is the Lanvin Reporter leather bag. It is a luxurious combination of two distinct textures accented by an adjustable gold tone chain strap. The contrast of the navy blue distressed leather against the shiny black patent is a unique combination that is tied (literally) together with a grosgrain ribbon woven thru the gold-tone chain strap. The boxy compact shape makes the perfect accompaniment to sophisticated linen pencil-skirts or sultry summer dresses. To keep all of your essentials in order there are inside compartments and a detachable Lanvin logo key fob.

via The Find

Ok folks, it is Friday. And over at Bag that Style we do the best we can to identify as many bags as humanly possible. But sometimes we just don’t know what the heck a celeb is carrying. Perhaps the angle is bad or there isn’t enough of the bag visible to actually identify it. Other times, I’ll be honest, we just don’t know! So if you are anything like me, you are watching that clock tick and you are waiting for the weekend to start. Whether you have big time plans or you are simply ready to veg out, I have a way to help pass the time!

Head over to Bag that Style and check out some awesome celeb images. There are so many fun pics to check out and even if you can’t identify any of the bags, pass some time looking at celebs you love (or perhaps hate)!

Click here to get your daily celeb/handbag combo fix!!!

When I saw the Marni Violet Suede Frame Bag, initially I thought this bag would fit what I was looking for. You can carry it by the handle, or use the foldover to its fullest and carry the bag as a clutch. I am a huge fan of suede, but is suede a bad idea in the heat? I would hate to have a lovely adult beverage in hand then go to pick up this bag only to have the suede bleed on my hand. Gross! So, perhaps it wouldn’t be the bag of choice while outside, but it certainly would be gorgeous in hand as you check out a show. The push lock closure and pleating help give a little bit of structure to the otherwise slouchy-esque bag. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1090.