Dooney & Bourke

We can’t all carry an exotic handbag everyday. I know there are some of you out there who have loads of exotic handbags - lucky - but the good thing is that you can get a similar look, for less. Of course a croc embossed handbag doesn’t come close to the real thing, but there certainly are a few out there I wouldn’t mind toting around. The Dooney and Bourke Croco Large Hobo could be an option. The hobo style shoulder bad is made of crocodile-embossed leather and comes in a variety of colors. Here, the red looks absolutely stunning. Yet, if you aren’t a red handbag kind of person, pick up the bag in black, brown or honey. The hobo shape is classic and clearly you have plenty of room for just about anything you might carry around during the day. If you were in the market for an exotic handbag, would you hold out for the real deal or buy something like this instead? Buy through Zappos for $285.

As much as I love writing about clutches and handbags that I think would be perfect for the holiday season, I also love bringing you clutches that can without a doubt be carried any time of the year. This Dooney and Bourke Patent Foldover Clutch looks like it will transcend seasons. There isn’t anything too flashy or over the top. The clutch is simple, sleek and has a nice hint of sophistication. I am not usually the kind of person who carries clutches during the day. But if you are, this is one can go with a casual daytime outfit just about as easily as with an outfit you might wear out on the town or to catch a show. The purple patent leather looks great on this clutch. If you want a different look, just put the detachable shoulder strap to use and there you go. Buy through Zappos for $155.

It is no surprise. Celebrities team up with designers all the time to create a special line of handbags. This time, Hayden Panettiere teamed up with Dooney & Bourke. First off, I like Hayden Panettiere. I think she is classy, sophisticated and has stayed out of unnecessary trouble (so far). Then, once I got a chance to see some of the handbags, I was nothing less than impressed. I absolutely love the Dooney & Bourke Hayden Clutch. Just like Hayden, the clutch emulates class. The clutch has soft Italian calfskin and is trimmed with gold leather piping. There is no way you missed the lion head closure. This isn’t just there for fun, it was inspired by Hayden’s astrological sign, Leo. I don’t know about you, but I love when a part of a handbag has a significant inspirational component - just like this. If you aren’t a fan of the blue clutch pictured here, fear not there are several other colors to choose from: black, fuchsia, ivory, purple and red. Buy through Dooney & Bourke for $295.