Spring Handbag Round-Up: Celine, Jerome Dreyfuss or Charlotte Ronson?

Celine Trapeze in Python Light Blush

Celine Trapeze in Python Light Blush

Now that spring has officially sprung, it dawned on me that I desperately need to update my look with a new handbag. Given that I live adjacent to Zoë – the most luxurious designer boutique in Dumbo, it takes serious willpower not to succumb to the temptations of Céline – French purveyors of the ridiculously stunning and outlandishly priced “It Bag” coveted by celebs and fashion influencers alike.

Whenever I peer inside Zoë’s storefront (typically multiple times a day), I gawk at the latest selection of Trapeze and Luggage totes artfully displayed like Fabergé eggs by the back, all of which seem to be screaming my name. As you can imagine, I need to put on blinders (and earplugs) whenever I leave my apartment, fearful of the inevitable damage to my dwindling savings account. So far I’ve held out, obsessively canvassing the web in search of arm candy that’s equally as stylish as the all mighty Céline, but at a fraction of the price. Do-able? Read on to see how I fared.

Bucket bags are suddenly all the rage and this Charlotte Ronson beauty (a.k.a. the Marine) fits the bill, literally and figuratively. While I’d normally shun black for warmer temps, the airy mesh overlay won me over. Available exclusively at Aritzia for $158 (in-store only). With only 20 available company-wide (19 if you include the one I just bought), you’d better act fast!

Charlotte Ronson Marine Duffel Bag

Charlotte Ronson Marine Duffel Bag

If you’re into gold grommets and heavy hardware, this Jerome Dreyfuss doppelgänger (a.k.a. the Alain) is the way to go. Initially I preferred the Pat tote below (perhaps too over-sized?), but am warming up to “Alain’s” more compact size and adjustable strap, making is a cinch to sling over your shoulder.

Jerome Dreyfuss Alain Perforated Tote, $1070. Available at Madisonlosangeles.com

Jerome Dreyfuss Alain Perforated Tote, $1070. Available at Madisonlosangeles.com

Given my hectic Mompreneur lifestyle, I need something roomy – not dowdy, for stowing daytime essentials including my iPad, lipstick and Pampers (gotta be armed with twin toddlers!). Enter this arm candy by my favorite French accessories designer, Jerome Dreyfuss. Hardly a steal at $950, but the light-as-a-feather perforated leather is so on trend and tote-ally worth the investment.

Jerome Dreyfuss Pat Perforated Tote

Jerome Dreyfuss Pat Perforated Tote

Call my crazy, but I’m loving the mixed media on this wearable work of art. Trendy? Mais, oui! But this Jerome Dreyfuss masterpiece is insanely fun, fashionable and ideal for day-to-night. Don’t let the colorful zig zags throw you off. Matching outfits from head-to-toe is passé.

Jerome Dreyfuss Carlos Satchel, $1,475

Jerome Dreyfuss Carlos Satchel, $1,475

Whether I’m running errands or meeting friends for a much-needed after-work glass of Sancerre, this hands-free Pilot by Rag & Bone fits the bill. At first I was dead set on the cobalt version, but the canary yellow instantly uplifted my mood and complemented my skin tone. Something to think about before investing in a $725 bag!

Rag & Bone, Small Pilot

Rag & Bone, Small Pilot

Given my obsession with perforated leather, I couldn’t resist adding this Rag & Bone color block clutch into the mix. The black and white perforated combo is sleek, edgy and undeniably cool.

What’s on your spring ’13 handbag wish list? Would you invest in any of the above? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts. In the meantime, happy shopping! xo FashionJunkie

R&B Perf

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Filed: Clothes Encounters, Featured Posts, Shop Talk, Trends

Tagged: , ,

No Comments