Prada-Saffiano-Soft-Frame-Clutch

I say a lot more negative things about Prada bags than I say positive, but I promise that I don’t have anything particular against the handbags brand(Prada). In fact, my first “designer” bag was a Prada crossbody bags, and I still have fond memories of it.

They’ve been doing more wrong than right in most of their high-profile bags lately, but they still make some great stuff that doesn’t grab as many headlines. I got a chance to examine a bunch of their bags up close this weekend, and I was particularly taken with the classic lines and superb construction of the Prada Saffiano Soft Frame Clutch.

Actually, “particularly taken” would be an understatement of my feelings. I’m in love with it – deep, inconvenient, all-encompassing love that I didn’t expect to find for a Prada replica bag. In my heart, that kind of love is usually reserved for Balenciaga or Valentino.

Please believe me when I say that the pictures don’t do this bag any sort of justice. I saw it in smooth black leather, which was ridiculously rich and perfect for this sort of oversized, take-anywhere, day-to-night clutch. It struck me as the sort of bag you’d look at and be able to tell that it was expensive, even if it had no logo. I’ll admit that it looks a bit boring in photos, but in your hand, it’s a great bag.

When I opened it up, I was even more pleased. The slightly retro, structured closure stands open to reveal a leather-lined interior (the black version has red, which is much more exciting than the taupe inside of the cream-colored version) with several pockets and enough space to hold more or less everything that you could put in a medium-sized shoulder bag. You probably wouldn’t want to fill it that full, but a little extra space in a clutch is never a bad thing.

Overall, I think I may have found the perfect clutch for me, and it was in one of the most unexpected places. Perhaps it was a cosmic reminder that in fashion, you should never count anyone out completely.

b-makowsky-chicago-cross-body

B. Makowsky Chicago Cross-Body | Small Pebbled Leather Bag with Chain Strap

Crossbody bags are no longer simply practical alternatives to fanny packs and backpacks. This particular type of handbag has transitioned into a runway chic accessory that designer labels and trendy brands like B. Makowsky are producing.

The Chicago Cross-Body is a perfect example of convenience meets style. It might not be the most cutting edge design with the trendiest of details, but it’s a far cry from nylon totes with black zippers.

With its soft pebbled leather, a signature of B. Makowsky’s bags, the Chicago quite sophisticated. When combined with topstitching detail and the bright, silver-toned accents, the look is almost quite posh. The pretty hardware consists of a long chain link strap with a leather shoulder piece for comfort, the rings that connect the strap to the bag, and the clasp closure on the front of the bag.

The convenience of the handbag isn’t limited to the ability to wear it across the body, however. It might not be very big, but with two interior compartments, a zippered pocket, and a slip pocket on the bag, this B. Makowsky design is meant for regular use. The Chicago also comes in a shoulder bag, hobo, tote, and satchel style as well.

Botkier Orion Bag

I was checking out the Luna Boston website today when I stumbled upon a Botkier style that I had never seen before. This interesting little bag is called the Botkier Orion Small Shoulder Bag and it is new for Fall 2009. But wait, isn’t Orion a constellation? And a large, conspicuous, and widely-recognized one at that! Now it has been a long time since I have taken an astronomy class… but if you ask me, this little guy resembles a hot pink soccer ball rather than the mythical Greek hunter. Don’t get me wrong girls, I do believe this fashion bag lies somewhere in the realm of cute. The funky hexagonal pattern and silver-tone studs give this replica bag a very unique look. But given it’s small size, I think I would have labeled it an evening luxrious bag instead of a shoulder bag. The extra long chain and leather strap makes this the perfect crossbody bag for a night out. This worry-free style let’s you mingle or dance without it ever leaving your side. And bright colors are a girl’s best friend in dark and crowded places! Plus it is said to be large enough to hold a credit card case, digital camera, and a few beauty essentials. It’s definitely worth a second look!

Botkier Taylor Crossbody Bag

I’ve been told that crossbody bags are the hot “new” style for Fall 2009. Now this would be all fine and dandy with me if it weren’t for one tiny little detail. And when I say “tiny”, I mean that literally. While strolling around the mall last week, I spotted several displays of crossbody style handbags. But a vast majority of these bags were no larger than a Coach swing pack. These tiny bags are great for when you’re traveling and you don’t want to carry a real handbag, but they just don’t cut it when it comes to everyday use.

Where’s a good ol’ messenger style when you need one? Well it looks like Botkier has stepped up to the plate this season! Introducing the Botkier Taylor Crossbody Bag! It is the perfect size for everyday use and the crossbody styling allows you to be hands-free. I really like this bag because it has a fun bohemian vibe about it. The slouchy style features pinch pleat detailing and delicately laced fringe. It would look lovely paired with some distressed leather boots, which are also hot for Fall. What I think I like most about this bag, however, is that the style isn’t so trendy that you couldn’t still use it in the years to come.

The Botkier Taylor Crossbody measures 16″ x 11″ x 3″ and it retails for $525. Check it out in Brown at Luna Boston!