March 2, 2012

The “It” Bag of the Season

I am a self-proclaimed handbag addict. I long for a new bag each season to adorn my arm and carry each and everything that I simply must have on hand at all times. However, purchasing a designer handbag every season can tire out my poor wallet (and my fiancés!) Alas, I try to reason that I don’t “do” designer shoes, so this is my one [pricey] vice. Not to mention, if you take good care of your bags, they can last for years to come; perhaps the quintessential quilted Chanel to be passed down to my first daughter on her 18th birthday? I also tend to stick to more classic pieces, so that they are able to cross seasons. Which brings me to my latest covet…

Every season there is a new bag that all the fashionista’s are carrying. The Celine Luggage Tote has been around for month’s now, but it secured its status as this season’s “it” bag at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC a couple of weeks ago (Women’s Wear Daily, 2/13/2012). The highly structured bag is so sleek; perfect for the career woman running to meetings, carrying an iPad, all the way to the fashion-forward mom needing it for everyday essentials. The tote retails for around $2,000 (give or take) dependent on size and fabric.


If that number just made your eyes roll, there are a couple of different options that will provide the same look and feel to the iconic bag. The first option is by another fabulous designer, Reed Krakoff. His Atlantique bag has similar structure, with a few extra pieces of hardware added. It still has the open sides for easy access; one of the hallmarks of this style. Prices in this line start at a much more reasonable $1,190.


Finally, for those budget babes out there, J. Crew has the Tillary Tote for a steal at $328. This handbag has a similar shape to Celine’s version, however, it zips all the way across the top. You won’t get the look of the sides gapping out like you do in the two above. Nevertheless, it is still reminiscent enough to be worthy of carrying it, if you’re craving the style but are low on resources.

4 comments:

Nat said...

I want the Celine luggage tote so badly but it's definitely not in my budget! I really like the Reed Krakoff and I kind of think the Jcrew one is even better.

Hoyt said...

From one handbag addict to another, I'm in love with that Celine bag too! What do you think, are you going to make the plunge??

Will you be joining the Spreecast book club? I hope so, especially now that my technical difficulties have been ironed out. Missed you gals!

cheryl denise said...

If you aren't comparing side by side, the J Crew one does look good...but seeing them lined up, I think it looks more like a basic tote.

cheryl denise said...

I don't know yet...I need to go check them out in person. I'm out for the spreecast book club for now...need to focus on my MBA!