Senora Cartera
 If you're a fan of Fendi's Bag du Jour as I am, then this deal will seem to good to be true. The Fendi Bag du Jour Grande (20 x 12 x 7) in white, textured leather has been dropped in price from $1410 to $816 - that's over 40% off...ON FENDI...THAT ISN'T UGLY! If I already hadn't decided on a Balenciaga clutch I'll be writing about very soon, I'd jump on this deal. If you've seen the latest 'Bag du Jour' renditions, you'll appreciate the simplicity and refinement of the original. Plus, the white leather is divine. Available via JOMASHOP with Free shipping and authenticity guaranteed
 A long-time reader sent me an e-mail over the weekend with a budget-oriented handbag dilemma: Hi Dania,
I've been debating my purchase of the YSL Muse for some time. I'd decided on getting the large black leather Muse, but I keep second guessing my decision due to the $1800 price tag. I really love this bag and it would be my first 'designer' purchase, but I'm not sure about spending so much on a bag with the economy the way it is. I'm hoping you can either convince me to get the Muse or recommend another bag very similar to it. I'm open to any suggestions. You always have great ideas. Hope you can help me out this time.
Nancy S. First, let me say "Thank You" for the 'great ideas' compliment. Now to your dilemma, Nancy. The first designer bag one buys can be a daunting task. You'll more than likely second-guess yourself a million times. When you factor in their sky-high prices, the shopping experience can be downright scary. So take a deep breath and relax. The good news is you've selected a beautiful bag in the Yves Saint Laurent Muse. The large 'Muse' is very big, so I'm assuming you like large bags. If you do, the price is pretty much on point for a bag that size from a high-end designer like YSL.
I won't try to convince you to buy it, though. Fiscal responsibility is a very personal issue and one I feel strongly about.  I know I sit and write up countless expensive bags and recommend them to readers everywhere, but whether or not they are an affordable purchase is entirely up to the individual. If you're simply suffering from "sticker-shock", I'd definitely recommend sticking with the 'Muse'. However, if you're in need of being more budget conscious due to tough economic times, I'd suggest finding a similar style from a lesser yet still top quality label.
I have a bag in mind that I think you'll like, Nancy. It's the Bulga Adore Bag. Both the 'Muse' and the 'Adore' are fairly comparable in size and overall design. They have the same interior features. In addition, the 'Adore' has a small exterior coin purse pocket that is cleverly disguised so as not to detract from the simple design. I have to tell you, Nancy, I really love this Bulga bag. It's a steal at $813 - that's more than 50% less than what the YSL Muse will run you.
 The decision is tough, but I'm sure you'll be happy once you pinpoint the real reason for your dilemma. Get that part out of your way and nab your first designer bag pronto. Send me pics of your bag when you do.
YSL Large Muse Tote - $1795 via Neiman Marcus
Bulga Adore Bag - $813 via RevolveClothing.com
 
 Jean Paul Gaultier is a maverick designer. Who else other than Gaultier (or perhaps Galiano at Dior) would create such a borderline kitsch collection where Stetson-topped, boot-walking, fringe-wearing, Birkin-carrying models are supposed to be taken seriously? Let's face it, this collection is a gamble...that pays off. The Herms Spring 2009 Collection is cowgirl chic at its' most refined.
The reason why this collection safely evades the stigma of "fashion joke" is due in large part to fabulous accessories and Gaultier's enormous restraint. While some of the pieces are trimmed in fringe and silhouettes are shaped to evoke images of the Old West, these Western references are subdued by earth-tone hues and lux fabrics. The effect is more reflective than "in-your-face". The accessories, as I mentioned before, play an important role in delivering Gaultier's 'cowgirl chic' vision. From hats to jewelery to shoes and, of course, handbags, Herms accessories steal the show.
 An Herms bag is always a visual treat. Its' classic look and feel will compliment just about any collection Gaultier can dream up (maybe outer space couture is next;-)). My favorite bags from this collection, an understated black alligator Kelly clutch and an ivory, fringe-accented Trim bag, are polar opposites in style, yet equally appeal to me. That's the rhyme and reason for Herms' success - it can be all things to all people.
Photos via Style.com
 
 If you're looking to tighten the reigns on your shopping budget but can't imagine passing up a great handbag deal, then read on. Indulge in a iridescent silver blue authentic python clutch and do it for under $1K! The Carlos Falchi Python Clutch measures a comfy 11 x 5 x 2 making it large enough to store your essentials with ease. A 15' drop chain shoulder strap and interior zip pocket add convenience to this sophisticated evening bag. Times are tough, ladies, but luxury can still be bought even if it is at a discounted price. Carlos Falchi Python Clutch - Orig. price: $720 Sale:$503.90
Via Saks Fifth Avenue
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