Sandy Maple
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Chloe Apple Clutch, Handbag of the Day
This bag is pretty enough in the silver version, but it really shines in bronze. It is sleek and simple and literally glows with good taste. With a gold-tone frame, the bag sports a kiss-lock closure and a barely-there logo detail on the horseshoe appliqué. I think this soft and subtle look is a refreshing change from the blinding metallic handbags we've seen so much of lately. $1490.
Dior Gipsy Ruffles Bag, Handbag of the Day
This bag is so unusual that you are either going be completely enthralled by it or wonder what in the heck they were thinking. I think I love it. It's flirty and fun with a double row of eyeleted leather ruffles in a gorgeous deep red. With all that going on, the rest of the bag is appropriately simple in every other way. Other than those pesky charms hanging from the shoulder strap, that is. Also available in an equally pretty black version, the bag sells for $1950.
Eric Javits Large Donut Tote, Handbag of the Day
I am not sure why this bag could not have been done in leather, but it wasn't. The material is PVC over nylon mesh and the only leather on this bag is found in the trim. Still, it is an eye-catching pattern and a totally retro look. With just a touch of gold-plated brass hardware where the straps fasten to the bag, the busy pattern is all you notice. The bag is open at the top and features gold nylon lining and interior cell, utility and makeup pockets as well as a key clip. Also available in white, the bag measures 14 ½"H x 9"W x 5"D and sells for $450.
Kooba Julia Shoulder Bag, Handbag of the Day
In neutral taupe with pretty tortoise buttons, the Julia features a striking yet subtle snakeskin print. I love the extra wide straps and the matching trim along the top. With external patch pockets on front and back and decorative flaps on the ends, the bag has a nice, non-fussy look that would coordinate with most any outfit. Inside, it is lined in fabric and features zip, patch and cell phone pockets. Measuring 15½"W x 11"H x 4½"D, it has a zip top closure and is on sale right now for $312.99.
Dolce & Gabbana Miss Pocket Double Satchel, Handbag of the Day
I love me some leopard print and this one does it up all nice and shiny in patent leather with grained leather trim. From D&G's Spring 2008 collection, the Miss Pocket satchel is a busy little bag with surprisingly few pockets considering the name: a large zippered pouch pocket on the front, a flat slide pocket on the rear and interior zip and cell pockets. The close-set polished silver chain and leather straps are a nice touch and give the bag a certain swing. The shape is softly structured and the gusseted sides prevent it from looking too boxy. With rolled leather side handles and nice flat base, the bag is as practical as it is beautiful. Available for pre-order for $2195.
Bottega Veneta Woven Leather Butterfly Tote, Handbag of the Day
If you appreciate subtlety in your handbag, you will probably like this tote with just a hint of butterfly pattern in the weave. Creamy nappa leather is delicately embossed with barely-there butterflies. Cinched with a 3" drop braided drawstring closure, the bag opens to pretty blue suede lining and a single pocket. Measuring 18"W x 15"H x 2"D, the Italian made bag is available for Spring pre-order at Saks for $2,820.
Michael Kors Beverly Gator Watch Clutch, Handbag of the Day
This bright bag from Michael Kors definitely scores some points for originality. A simple alligator-embossed leather clutch in a fresh lime green is dressed up with a masculine, gold-tone...watchband? I guess it is better than skulls and bracelet charms, but where is this taking us? If leftover watch parts can find a home on high-end handbags, can cuff links and tie tacks be far behind? It is a lovely bag that probably would have been best left unadorned. $3,000.
R & Y Augousti Shagreen Minaudiere, Handbag of the Day
My taste in handbags is a bit too traditional for this style, but those who lean modern will appreciate this unusual clutch. Lined in velvet, this bronze minaudiere is faced with red shagreen with an ostrich leg center inlay. The funky angles are continued in the tabs of the magnetic closure and the the overall look is warm and contemporary. Think of it as a conversation piece for your wardrobe. It measures 8¼" x 3½" and sells for $295.
Roberto Cavalli Sahara Print Clutch, Handbag of the Day
Obviously the animal print trend is alive and well in the handbag world. I, for one, hope it stays that way. Designers keep finding new and interesting ways to employ these exotic patterns and I never tire of them. This one takes the jungle print uptown with gold accents and the result is stunning. The metallic gold leather trim highlights the pretty curves of the flap and the detachable chain strap adds even more elegance to the shimmery satin bag. I am, however, just about over the charm trend. This one sports five, hanging from a gold ring on the side of bag. Measuring 11"W x 6"H x 2½D, the bag sells for $1390.
Chlo Bay Patent Hobo, Handbag of the Day
I am usually not a big fan of purple, but this dark violet shade is kind of nice. The grained lambskin just glows and you know it is going to feel as nice as it looks. Accented with just the right amount of gold-tone hardware, the bag sports Chloé's signature over sized zipper pulls and double rolled handles with an 8" drop. Inside, the bag is lined in canvas and features a zip pocket. Measuring 12"W x 13"H x 4" D, it is currently available for pre-order for $1,760.
