So I’m at the mall the other day (Hey, I write a fashion blog—I have to see what’s out there, don’t I? It’s all work-related research.), and I wandered into Nordstrom. I normally try to avoid stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, Saks, etc., because I invariably end up spending way more than I should. I was good the other day, though. I spent quite a bit of time in the handbag section, stroking the bags, smelling their new leather smell, taking pictures of myself with different bags. Well, actually, I had a friend of mine snap pictures. What? You don’t do that? I think it’s a great way to see how a handbag will look with a certain outfit, or whether the size is appropriate. I’m on the petite side, so some bags are just too big for me to carry. They make me look like I’m playing dress-up with my mommy’s stuff. Conversely, if I were a taller, bigger girl, carrying a little cutesy bag would make me look like a giant in the land of Lilliput. There are times when handbags of certain sizes are appropriate, but for everyday use, you really should try to make sure the size of the bag is proportionate to your stature. Anyway, while browsing and coveting, I ran across this Fendi Peekaboo Small Leather Satchel.
I love Fendi handbags, and at first glance, the Peekaboo has a classic look. But it could also be described as, well, boring. Off white, smooth leather, traditional metal trim, and a single leather handle. Meh. Nice, but not an attention grabber. But then I opened it, and saw why it’s called a Peekaboo! The interior is lined with gorgeous, dotted pink fabric. When the peekaboo panel is open, it’s like a whole other bag. A more exciting, contemporary one. It’s separated into two compartments inside, with zippered pockets and plenty of space. I was hooked. Before you ask, no, I didn’t get it. Are you kidding me? I kind of like eating and having a place to live. So I’m doing the next best thing, and featuring it on the blog. The Fendi Peekaboo also comes with an adjustable shoulder strap that gives the bag a 20 – 26-inch shoulder drop. It also has little metal feet to protect the leather bottom. The Fendi Peekaboo is $2,340 at Nordstrom.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 1
The Hobo International Naomi Florence Leather Shoulder Bag has a more contemporary design, but it’s just as classy as the Peekaboo. It’s made from top-grain leather, and is smooth all over. The rounded design will add visual interest to any ensemble, especially straight-legged slacks and a blazer. There’s a zippered pocket on the outside flap, and more pockets on the twill interior lining for extra storage. There’s a detachable, cross-body strap, and the bag closes with a magnetic snap. I like it in this marigold for summer, but it also comes in black, cognac, and rouge. Get it for $228 at Endless.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 2
Save even more, but still look great with this Roxy Talon Satchel. It’s made from vinyl, which reduces the cost, but still has the smooth look of leather. Dual handles give it a 9.5-inch drop, giving you both options of hand and shoulder carrying, but you can also convert it to a single, long shoulder strap. There’s an zip pocket, and a snap-closure pocket on the front exterior, and a back wall zip pocket and slip pockets in the lining. The top zips closed. The Talon is adorned with Roxy logo metal plates on the bottom corner of the bag, and on the exterior pocket flap. This raspberry wine is yummy, but it’s also available in cadet, which actually looks more like purple than blue. Get both colors since it’s only $44 at Zappos.com.
