I never understand why classic handbag labels come out with cutesy, cartoonish designs. Like when Louis Vuitton did the bright multi-colored monogram canvas bas...they were awful. This Bottega Veneta leather tote is just like that - over the top cutesy. It looks like a cupcake. The bright multi-colored knots are not only ugly, but also uncomfortable. I could see a teenager wearing this bag, but how many teenagers can afford a $1,850 handbag.

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Tomas Maier, the Bottega Veneta designer, said "it's not a time to be ostentatious" with fashion, seemingly referring to our global economy. It is no surprise, then, that his handbag collection is not only beautiful, but also wearable year round. His version of downbeat luxury in muted browns—caramel through dark saffron, copper, and chestnut—is no less expensive in the execution of amazing fabric treatments and handcrafted leathers than it's ever been. Though Maier may have been conservative in design, but, thankfully, he had a vast selection of sizes and styles, something many other designers have held back.

The 2009 Spring collection had everything from carry alls to clutches, and in as many different materials. Bottega Veneta is famous for it's beautiful woven design, and this season they expanded on that design and made a more open basket weave design. One of the bags in this style was a multi hued amber carry all. Amber, the semi precious gemstone, comes in mostly shades of caramel and brown, but also green and yellow. These colors were the central theme in this collection so it's no surprise that many of the models were wearing amber jewelry. There were also lots of shoulder bags and clutches in patent leather, embossed leather, crocodile, snakeskin, and ostrich. This collection is by far my favorite from Bottega Veneta. I think Thomas Maier achieved his goal of creating beautiful and classic handbags that can be worn and re-worn for years to come.

This is a beautiful and classy Bottega Veneta Maggiore Top Handle tote. It looks like something a powerful CEO would carry to her business luncheon. It's a mixture of leather and genuine python. At first glance, the color and texture of the bag caught my eye. I love the deep, rich shade of green. The woven python is impeccable. I personally love woven fabric that doesn’t look like it has been woven too tightly or too loosely. And of course, in true Bottega Veneta fashion, the bag has suede lining. Personally, I am quite a sucker for suede lining. Aren't you?

  Overall, the bag is absolutely gorgeous and to me, a great addition to any handbag collection. I personally think the style is totally classic and chic; the kind of style that can be worn for seasons to come. And hey, if you don’t think it fits your budget, it’s never too early to put it on your holiday wish list! $4,100 at Saks Fifth Avenue

For some of you, this Bottega Veneta is just too big. For those of you like myself, it's perfect. I love almost all things Bottega Veneta, and I love this bag too. I can throw diapers, magazines, a water bottle, and a make-up bag in here easily, as well as the essential wallet and Blackberry.

This Bottega Veneta Atene Ayers Bucket Bag is very rich with buttery soft goat skin in a traingular oragami like design. It has an open top for easy entry, but it's deep enough that probably, nothing will fall out. The double top handles with a 5″ drop give the bag the option to be carried by hand or on your shoulder. The lining is suede adds a nice contrast to the goatskin. You can buy this bag through Saks for $3,950.