I have a personal bias towards bags with this shape and structure, but this looks like just the sort of thing to add some much-needed neutral contrast to a dark winter wardrobe.

The only part that gives me any pause at all is the sort of floppy closure at the top, but as long as the leather is sufficiently slouchy, that should work just fine. There’s also a sizable exterior pocket for your cell phone and keys, which is a must for me for any bag that I consider purchasing, and the braided handle is kind of snazzy, don’t you think? Buy through Bloomingdale’s for $595.

But then I realized that the word ‘chain’ was in the name of the bag, and I realized that I needed to take a look closer. When I did, I was pleasantly surprised, and it reminded me that the devil really is in the details.

We’ve seen fringe done in basically every way that you can imagine over the past few months, but we’ve yet to see it done in non-leather materials. And honestly, I was beginning to tire of it. It was fun while it lasted, but such an obvious fad usually disappears as quickly as it shows up, and fringe was really obvious.

In a nod to this season’s industrial trends, the folks at CC Skye have combined an idea on its way out with one on its way in. Instead of leather, the thin fringe is metal chain in several colors. I’d have to examine it in person to decide if I love it, but I know that I love that they tried something a bit different. The grey leather looks like it will break in beautifully as well. Buy through ShopBop for $625.

The gold-tone hardware really pops against the black. The functionality aspect of the bag is something I cannot get over; this is the kind of bag that can be toted all over just about any town. I mean, I don’t think I would sling this over my shoulder as I head to the beach, but I’m pretty sure you get where I am coming from here. The hardware is chunk and noticeable which I really like; it fits this big bag perfectly. Buy through Singer22 for $625.

As new designs begin to emerge, all I find myself saying is “ooooh, I NEED that”. I said that very statement today when I saw the CC Skye Mimi Bag in this new amazing purple color. In typical form, the leather looks down right hug-able. I wasn’t the least bit surprised to see chunky hardware and noticeable stitch detailing. If you don’t like hardware on your handbag noticeable, then this designer might not be the one for you. But, if you are like me and love to have a bag that makes a chic statement, then keep CC Skye on your radar. I’m definitely thinking about pre-ordering this bag ASAP! Snag this through Singer22 for $625.

That’s right, all that stuff in addition to four large front pockets with lots of shiny gold hardware.It’s just…well, like Tim Gunn says, it’s a lot of look. A bit too much look, in my opinion. It’s not ugly, per se, but it just doesn’t look like a good editorial eye was taken to this bag before it was produced, and perhaps one should be used when deciding whether or not to add it to your collection. Buy through Singer22 for $725.

The CC Skye version doesn’t have the bows, obviously, and I think it’s a very attractive bag in its own right. The leather looks matte and thick, and I was undecided about the whip-stitching at first, but it’s grown on me as I look at the bag. It’s a bit of a handmade effect without making the bag look like a craft project, which is a line that’s exceptionally hard to walk. I’m still a bit put off by its structural similarities to the Bow Bag, particularly since that’s a purse that’s been very popular, but the price of this one is making me look the other way, comparatively. Buy through Singer22 for $625.

Some people may disagree, but I LOVE love love the extra chains hanging from the strap, which would looks ultra sexy against a bare arm when carried at night with a cute little dress. And there’s just something about a black bag with a bunch of chunky silver hardware – it’s kind of industrial, a tad goth, and super fashionable in a way that doesn’t go out of style, just like the Ramones. And for that reason, it has way more personality to it than the average handbag you come across. Pre-order through Singer22 for $540.

Messenger bags – how I am so torn. Usually I am not a fan of messenger bags. For some reason I don’t really enjoy a bag crossed over my body; I feel restricted. But at the same time, I love the idea of just throwing the bag on and heading out – not worrying about making sure the purse stays on your shoulder or getting tired of carrying it in your hand. Yet, it takes a pretty spectacular messenger bag in order for me to buy it. The CC Skye Edie Downtown Chic Messenger Bag would be one I would carry. The gray leather and goldtone hardware are a perfect match. The other thing I like, this isn’t your typical messenger bag – it has personality. Messenger bags usually strike me as functional yet a tad boring. This one is functional but is in no way boring. I really like it. CC Skye has an eye for making each one of her handbags a little edgy and always chic. I think this is a hit! Buy through Singer 22 for $725.

Head over to Purse Blog for our CC Skye Deco Bangles Giveaway!!! We are giving away two CC Skye Bangles, worth $150 each.

TO ENTER: Post in the comments of the Purse Blog CC Skye Bangles Giveaway entry your favorite CC Skye accessory. Visit CC Skye online to browse her merchandise and find your favorite good.