…I just didn’t manage to get there with them.

Feathers and satin and chain sound like a recipe for a whimsical evening bag, but the actual end product of the Lanvin Pouchette Oulouette Clutch isn’t as fantastical as it may sound. When carried on the shoulder, the feathers hang down the front of the body in sort of a sad, limp way, and the promise that they can be removed to make a necklace or belt doesn’t make me feel much better about how this bag was executed.

 I can see where it would be a fun, if slightly gimmicky, design challenge to make a bag whose strap had multiple other functions when not in use as part of the clutch, but I think the end result would have been better if the designers at Lanvin had focused more intently on making sure it looked better as a strap. If I want a necklace or a belt, I’ll buy one – when I want a bag, I want one that doesn’t sacrifice its aesthetic value to transform into a bunch of stuff that I didn’t want in the first place. I adore the color of this bag, but the feathers seem poorly conceived at best (and I’m usually a lover of fabulous little bits like feathers).

    In a perfect world no one would go hungry or wage war and I would have a closet dedicated to handbags. And in that closet would repose this Lanvin Happy Satin Shoulder bag. The glossy smooth satin is so shiny that if I were a little girl I would want to rub my face on it (I still kind of do anyway). In no way is a hot pink satin shoulder bag practical for daily use, but in my perfect world I would take it out on a occasion and wear it with a stealthy LBD and patent Louboutins and we would all go get cocktails together.

    Are mini purses that aren’t clutches really practical? When they’re this cute, I guess it doesn’t really matter. Check out this insanely adorable Marc by Marc Jacobs Saddlery Mini Bag. The colors are rich and perfect for fall, and that lush leather gives off an air of richness. While how much will actually fit in this mini purse on a daily basis is up for debate, it’s still a cute bag to have, especially for a die-hard Marc Jacobs fan.

   What’s that peeking out from behind Katie Holmes’ back as she picks strawberries with little Suri? Why, it’s a Louis Vuitton Pre-Fall 2010 Aviator bag! This lovely purse has been seen on many a celeb in recent weeks, from Katie to Rachel Bilson and Gwen Stefani. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot more of this functional tote.

    No matter how many different fabrics, styles and colors of handbags there are out on the market, when you catch a glimpse of a classic design, you just have to stop and give it the respect that it is due. Such is the case with the Chyc Large Patent Flap Shoulder Bag by Yves Saint Laurent. Made in Italy, this simple little black bag will complement just about any LBD without taking away too much attention. You just look at it and you know. And anyone who recognizes a quality YSL bag will know too. It is actually so chic YSL had to come up with a whole new spelling of the word to define it. Word must be getting out because there seems to be a high demand for this bag – Saks is limiting customer purchases to just three bags every thirty days.

    Summer isn’t the best time to lug around a bag roughly the size of your upper body, but some of us just can’t help it. It doesn’t help that there aren’t half as many stylish bags of smaller stature available. That all changes now, with the release of this chic Marc Jacobs Debbie Quilted Nylon Crossbody Bag. Small? Cute? Functional? Check, check and check. It meets the “everyday essentials” requirement, which means it can hold your basics with ease. If you’re an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink type, though, it could pose some issues. Otherwise, prepare to pack a punch with this vibrant purple bag. Anything that makes nylon look glamorous has got to be a winner!

   If you’re on the hunt for a new bag that will see you through fall and then be just as relevant again next spring, check out this version of the Coach Kristin Leather Tote. This beauty of a bag is worth every accolade it earns. It utilizes supple leather, enigmatic gold hardware, a gorgeous shade of blue and a practical silhouette to create one of the most chic, stylish purses around. At just $398, it’s also exceptionally reasonable.

   Marc Jacobs delivers yet again with the Pretty Nappa Lil Lissy, part of his lower priced Marc line. From its supple quilted leather in bright grape to its unusual shape, it’s a true standout. The ties along the strap and the large side pockets lend it a unique quality for sure. If there’s any drawback, it’s in the small size strap. I prefer something just slightly longer. The price, though, is fabulous!

   Perfect fall bag alert! Part of the Marc by Marc Jacobs line, Bow Wow Wow Leola may have a slightly questionable name, but there’s no messing with that fabulous design. All of its elements – the rich eggplant color, dramatic yet practical shape and wildly printed lining – collaborate to create a great everyday carryall. All this, and it’s on sale, too. Like we said – perfect.

   If you’re on the hunt for a classic tan bag to wear year round, consider the Coach Mia Leather Carryall. This no-fuss bag is an easy accessory to pair with nearly anything in your closet, from work day basics to weekend wear. I’m not especially fond of the very visible Coach logo against the light backdrop, but die hard fans won’t let something like that stop them. In four colors.