Versace Baroque Printed Bag, $995 via Net-a-Porter

I’m as hard on Versace as anyone, but I like to think of it as a tough love situation. I talk smack because I want the brand to improve its handbags, not because I take any particular delight in its struggles. Although I have to admit, some of the company’s past bags have been almost delightfully bad, so there may have been a modicum of enjoyment on my part.

Versace may have turned the corner, though. The past couple seasons of ready-to-wear have been intriguing, and during the same period of time, I’ve noticed a conspicuous and considerable lack of Versace purses that make me want to throw a small fit. Not to mention that I actually like the Versace Baroque Printed Bag in all of its pattern-on-pattern glory. (more…)

When we discussed Reed Krakoff’s Fall 2010 handbag line last week, many of you mentioned that your favorite was one we had omitted: the Reed Krakoff Alligator and Felt Boxer II Tote. The bag’s omission was intentional: I think it’s beautiful enough to deserve its own post.

When it first appeared on Net-a-Porter two weeks ago, it managed to sell out before I even woke up (which, admittedly, was later than a real adult should be waking up for work), but a second shipment has come in. So, you know, gather up that extra seven grand you have laying around, because this thing doesn’t come cheap. (more…)

I’m no great fan of paying high prices for non-leather bags, but after seeing the Yves Saint Laurent Large Shopping Tote, I’m unsure how long I’ll be able to continue my resistance to the concept.

When you’re a fan of designer handbags, it’s best to come up with some personal price boundaries to avoid getting carried away. It’s easy to become desensitized when the most highly sought-after bag in the world costs in the high four figures, but not every bag is worth what the manufacturer might want us to pay. The Yves Saint Laurent Large Shopping Tote has positioned itself in an interesting spot, however – the price just might be low enough to pique my interest for such an attractive bag, even though it’s not made entirely of leather. (more…)