The Budget Babe

I'm enamored with just about all the accessories from Dolce & Gabbana's Spring 2008 collection, especially the Coin-Purse Bowler above, which features black/white snakeskin diamond patchwork in a whimsical harlequin pattern. I know that in the fast-paced world of fashion, this purse is ancient news. But since my motto tends to be, "I'll wear whatever I think is cute, whenever I want to wear it," this hot bag is making headlines in my world today.

On the runway, note how the hard lines and black and white tone of the bags pop against the curvilinear designs of the jewel-colored Venetian cut velvets. Brilliant. The somewhat dark mood of the bag also capitalizes on the material being used to make it, namely, snakeskin (Yes, I watch Nature and I know the snake is a misunderstood reptile, but we're referring to the serpent's 2,000+ year alignment with the Prince of Darkness himself.)

For those of us who can't get our hands on the real deal, knock-offs abound: Try the Linsday Lohan inspired bowler (featured above) from AnyKnockOff.com, or the Faux Snake Skin Divino Bucket Tote, $52.00, at Baghaus.com. Looking for a snakskin bag that's a little less busy? Try this Oversized snake-print satchel, now just $17.99 at Newport-News.com.