Designer Handbags Planet

The Kate Spade Amanda clutch is nicknamed the “New York Plaza” clutch and when you lay your eyes upon it, you can understand why. The bag is embellished with sequins galore which have a beautifully rich brown color. The clutch is a bit unconventional in shape because its handles have been designed to make it look like a mini hobo bag when you place it on your wrist. The handles also stand out by themselves because they look more like bracelets than anything else. Most Kate Spade bags have an understated elegance but the Amanda clutch has earned its nickname because it shines in more ways than one.

Kate Spade “New York Plaza” Sequined Amanda Clutch

It’s pretty safe to say that everyone would love to carry a Dolce & Gabbana handbag across their arm every day but the fact of the matter is, D&G simply doesn’t fit into everyone’s budget. The great thing about fashion is that whenever you fall in love with a high-end designer piece, you can always find it translated into something more affordable. Take the Dolce & Gabbana Lily sheepskin satchel as an example. This handbag is undeniably stunning and the most noticeable detail is the use of gold studs as an embellishment to the brown leather. If you want this exact look it will cost you $660 but never fear! There is always a more affordable alternative!

The Linear Stud Frame Satchel by Rebecca Minkoff is a great substitute for the D&G because it is also made from a gorgeous brown leather which has been embellished with gold studs. This bag is priced at around $250 and although this is less than half the cost of the Lily satchel, it still might be too high for anyone on a tight budget. This is where Steve Madden comes in. The Steve Madden BBold satchel looks very much like the D&G and the Minkoff but at $74, it’s definitely the best bargain.

D&G Dolce & Gabbana Lily Sheepskin Satchel ($660)

Rebecca Minkoff Linear Stud Flame Satchel ($250)

Steve Madden BBold Satchel ($74)

Well folks, looks like it’s deja vu all over again with Paris Hilton in legal trouble but this time, it’s for cocaine possession instead of DUI. Just in case you’ve been living under a rock inside a cave in the middle of nowhere and don’t know that I’m talking about, Paris and her boyfriend Cy Waits (who??) were arrested for cocaine possession in Las Vegas. There’s no telling whether or not she’s actually going back to jail or anything but this will surely catapult her back into #1 the media spotlight and more importantly, steal Lindsay Lohan’s “hot celeb/criminal” thunder!

Below is a photo of Paris Hilton in happier times and she’s seen carrying the CC Skye Niki clutch. As usual, her outfit and accessories are all over the place but the clutch brings it all together because it’s so chic on its own.

After just one look at the Aldo Overshiner handbag you would think that it was worth hundreds and hundreds of dollars but alas, it only cost $50!!! Expensive handbags have always been a hot trend because they make us all look and feel ultra glamorous but there’s nothing better than a handbag which gives you that same feeling  without costing your entire paycheck. The Aldo Overshiner is a beautiful tote which can be carried on your arm a la Lindsay Lohan or worn as a shoulder bag. The crisp white color of the bag combined with the gorgeous brown on the handles and the gold chain are what elevate the chic factor of this $50 bag and make it look like a $500 dollar bag, instead.

ALDO Overshiner Bag

I think we can all agree that the most eye-catching aspect of the Pebble hobo is its unusual nickname. The Italian Dumpling Hobo? What does that mean exactly?? The first thing I did was google “Italian dumplings” because I’ve never had those before and after seeing them, the resemblance was clear. Just to save you guys the time, I’ve gone ahead and posted a photo of  Italian dumplings (gnocchi) in case you don’t know what they are, either.

Much like the dumplings, the Pebble bag has the classic round hobo handbag shape which is what makes it so functional. In terms of pure style, the cracked leather detail is what makes this bag stand out because  it’s not a fabric you see used too often. The bag also has a great outer zipper that can be used as a pseudo-secret compartment, which only adds to the functionality of the “Italian dumpling hobo.”

Rioni Pebble – The Italian Dumpling Hobo

Italian dumplings

Whenever you open up a dictionary, a photo of the Olsen twins should be added under the definition of “style” because those two know how to work it! I like to think that if I had my own billion dollar company I would look super chic every single day but sometimes when I see pictures of them out and about, I’m truly amazed. They are both creative, they think outside the box, and they clearly don’t care about best and worst dressed lists because they are so secure in their sense of style.

If I had to choose I would say that I prefer Ashley’s style over Mary-Kate’s, but it really is like splitting hairs. Below we have Ashley in a fur jacket, a black scarf, and a GORGEOUS Fendi handbag which perfectly illustrates why I can’t get enough of her look. The great thing about the Olsen twins’ style is that it’s just so effortless! It literally looks like she just waltzed into her closet and put the whole outfit together without even thinking about it and that is the sign of a true stylista.

I don’t know about you but when Jessica Simpson announced that she was starting her own fashion label, a part of me cringed. Not because I don’t think she’s talented (I actually love her sense of style), but celebrities getting their own design label has become the new black. Everyone from Miley Cyrus to Lindsay Lohan has attempted a fashion venture but most of them haven’t turned out very well. This is why I was slightly shocked to see that Jessica Simpson’s fashion line is flying off the shelves! Not only do the products sell but they are actually very chic and affordable.

The Runway Flamenco framed satchel is just one example of the strength of Simpson’s collection. The bag has a great look which is unique yet wearable, and its ruffle detailing goes perfectly in line with the handbag trends of Fall/Winter 2010. One of the best things about the flamenco satchel is that it comes in 9 different and equally gorgeous colors and patterns. Below are my three faves but I must say it was pretty hard to narrow it down to just three . . .

Jessica Simpson Runway Flamenco Framed Satchel (silver)

Jessica Simpson Runway Flamenco Framed Satchel (gold)

Jessica Simpson Runway Flamenco Framed Satchel (croc dusty plum)

My first impression of the Dior Libertine tote was OOOHLALA! I’ve always been a huge fan of Christian Dior bags because they are so distinctive and creative but the libertine takes the cake. This bag stands out because it’s chic and breathtaking yet functional and Eva Mendes shows that perfectly below. Her style is pretty glamorous and casual so her natural beauty can shine through so the libertine is a perfect match. The way she’s wearing it just makes me want one worse than ever because it looks so gorgeous and comfortable at the same time! I’ve seen the bag in darker colors on the runway and in magazine ads but the pink just looks so effortless . . .

The Bulga Panache Hobo is a bag unlike any other because it has flaps of leather tiered all around it like a skirt. I must say it takes confidence to carry a bag like this around (which is why I love it sooo much!) because it’s not your typical hobo bag. Aside from its aesthetic awesomeness, the Panache hobo is also a convertible bag which can be folded open into a large shoulder bag, or kept as is and worn as a hobo. Another great thing about this handbag is the rich purple color which falls right in line with the hottest handbag trends of this fall.

Bulga Panache Hobo (closed)

Bulga Panache Hobo (opened)

Everyone knows, loves, and appreciates the houndstooth silhouette and the timeless sophistication that it represents. Gwen Stefani is known for having a throwback style with a trendy, modern twist and this bag is an excellent representation of her personal taste. The L.A.M.B. Worthington satchel has the classic houndstooth pattern but it has been amped up with electric green graphics. What’s even more impressive is that there are three versions of the Worthington satchel and each one is completely unique different than the other. This is fantastic news for all of you L.A.M.B. fanatics out there because it means that you can collect all three!

L.A.M.B. Worthington Satchel (Acid Houndstooth)

L.A.M.B. Worthington Satchel (Dayglo Sunrise)

L.A.M.B. Worthington Satchel (Static Logo)

Foley + Corinna and Pietro Alessandro have both come out with gorgeous convertible handbags which look pretty much identical to the naked eye, but my job is to nit-pick and find the little differences for this edition of BATTLE OF THE BAGS. First however, I’ll have to start with the similarities. Both bags come with attachable shoulder straps so they can be turned into shoulder bags, and they both fold over into cute clutches. One difference is definitely the size. Both bags are pretty roomy but the Foley is a bit larger than the Pietro so if you like to stuff your bags to capacity, you should go for the Foley.

Another difference is the price. At $235, the Pietro handbag is considerably less expensive than the Foley ($485) so if you’re on a budget then the decision is obvious. The tiebreaker comes down to the fact that the Foley bag is made in China whereas the Pietro is made in the good ol’ US of A. This means that for you uber-patriots out there, the Pietro Alessandro handbag is the clear winner but if you don’t care whether the bag is made in USA or Uranus, then we’ll have to call it a draw.

Pietro Alessandro Convertible Fold-Over Tote

Foley + Corinna City Tote

The first thing you’ll notice when looking at the Bally Lyn satchel is the stitching detail. The etching pattern follows the framework of the bag and in turn adds a sense of movement and dimension. I must say that the bronze chain straps are my favorite part of the Lyn satchel and by the way, chain handles happen to be very “in” at the moment. Oftentimes, a lot of energy is focused on designing the perfect handbag exterior but not nearly as much goes into the interior. This satchel defies that trend because the inside is divided up so that it’s nice and organized. The attention to detail in both the inside and outside of the Bally Lyn satchel is what makes this bag a winner in my book!

BALLY Lyn Satchel

Although crazy embellishments are on their way out this season, rich textures are still very much in. Rich textures such as weaves, twists, and other patterns elevate a plain handbag to the next level without looking tacky. Maintaining elegance is probably the most crucial aspect of this trend because ridiculous add-ons will only take away from the creativity and design of a great bag. This means that a handbag covered in frills will have to stay in the closet for the time-being (unfortunately) . . .

Elaine Turner Leah Miniaudiere Clutch

Swiss Strappy Weave Hobo/Handbag

Hurley Twist Tote

Christopher Kon Adele Quilted Tote

Usually autumn/winter fashion consists of purples, blacks, and other dark colors which oppose the brightness of spring/summer fashion. In 2010 however, this departure won’t be quite so significant. Instead of seeing the drastic change from bright to dark tones, the shift will go toward muted tones which aren’t quite so somber. Earth tones and neutrals are also great handbag colors because they allow you to wear a gorgeous bag but still have the leeway for another statement piece in your outfit. For example, you can easily pull off a turquoise scarf in the fall if your accessories are neutral because the eye gets drawn toward the turquoise.

Kenneth Cole New York Circular Motion Large Hobo

BIG BUDDHA Woodstock Hobo

Kooba Daphne Hobo

Calvin Klein C-Link Crescent Hobo

The best word I can use to describe the BCBG Femme Fatale satchel is luxury. This bag looks considerably more expensive than it actually is because of the crocodile-embossed leather which was used to make it. Aside from the lush fabric, the clean lines also add a sense of maturity and sophistication to the handbag while the detachable shoulder straps add functionality. The satchel is available in black and mocha and I would personally wear the mocha with a less formal outfit and the black one with something semi-formal to formal (work attire, etc.).

BCBG Max Azria Femme Fatale Medium Croc-Embossed Satchel (mocha)

BCBG Max Azria Femme Fatale Medium Croc-Embossed Satchel (black)

The Coach Poppy Floral Graffiti collection contains a tote, a wristlet, a cross-body bag, and a shoulder bag. The collection is a departure from the typical Coach designs because the signature monogram pattern isn’t used. Instead, the word “Coach” has been written into the background in a graffiti style which reminds me of the Louis Vuitton graffiti collection. The whimsy of these bags comes from the simple girly details such as the flowers which look like they were drawn by hand and the fact that the pattern sorta looks like it’s from a coloring book.

Coach Poppy Floral Graffiti Tote Bag

Coach Poppy Floral Graffiti Wristlet

Coach Poppy Floral Graffiti Cross-Body Bag

Coach Poppy Floral Graffiti Shoulder Bag

The Latico P.S. bowling bag is over sized and roomy so you can carry anything and everything you could ever need throughout the day (even a bowling ball)! The great thing about this handbag is that the dual straps are designed so that the bag can hold lots of weight without hurting your arm. Not to mention, the contrasting colors of the straps and the bag really make everything pop. The P.S. bowler is available in orange, green, purple, black, and caribe (seen below).

Latico P.S. Medium Bowler

The Big Buddha Sadie hobo has a very cool vibe because of its vintage-inspired embellishments. In my opinion, the trimming details are what set this bag apart because this is where you really get the vintage vibe. The trim is actually inspired by wingtips and that design combined with the bright colors and slouchiness make the Sadie hobo a keeper in my book! FYI: this handbag comes in 6 different colors but my two personal faves will get the spotlight.

BIG BUDDHA Sadie Hobo (Fuchsia)

BIG BUDDHA Sadie Hobo (Green)

There’s already a place in handbag heaven for Marc Jacobs because whether he’s designing Louis Vuitton, his own Marc Jacobs line, MARC by Marc Jacobs or whatever else, it’s all genius! The Damen satchel is no exception. This handbag is reminiscent of  the quilted stam bag but it’s a bit more sophisticated because of the buckle details and the fact that there’s no chain involved. Although the bag photographs kinda small, its actual dimensions are 24″L x 10″W x 5″D so there’s plenty of room inside!

Marc Jacobs Damen Quilted Satchel

When you look at the Bally Dasha hobo and the CC Skye Love 82 hobo, there are some obvious similarities. For example, they are both made with a gorgeous deep red leather, they’re both slouchy, and they’re both edgy yet versatile. The big difference between the two is definitely the price. The Bally goes for $950 while the CC Skye goes for $595. In the Battle of the Bags there can only be one winner and since affordability is a huge deal, the slight edge goes to CC Skye! What do you guys think? Agree or disagree??

BALLY Dasha Hobo

CC Skye Love 82 Hobo