Queen of Spades

I remember very precisely the first time I stared in awe at a Kate Spade bag.  I was checking up on one of my daily fashion website reads when I came across this Kate Spade Folly Beach Makenzi Straw Clutch from her Spring 2010 collection:

Never really one to admire straw bags, I was amazed at how well the smooth leather paired with the texture of the straw.  And the grapefruit colour can make anyone excited for sunshine and summer dresses.  Since the discovery of this clutch, I have continuously found myself praising numerous Kate Spade bags.  The latest one on my list is the Essex Bike Scout made from smooth cowhide:

Something I've realized after looking at Kate Spade bags is that no one can do leather like Kate can.  There is something about Kate Spade leather - how smooth it is, how polished it is, and how positively unblemished it seems.  The same goes for colour.  Kate Spade bags are always bright and summery, without being loud.  Messenger bags are also becoming increasingly popular, and are a great option for going out hands-free.  This bag is structured, refined and I love the coffee brown colour.  Here is an ad showing the more colourful counterparts (the bag comes in two sizes):

Image Source: Clutch, Essex Bike Scout, Ad