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Major apologies to the March birthday babies that were born on the 1st or 2nd. Last week was a little crazy and March came out of nowhere, but our March Birthday Gift Guide is here now! The March birthday girl’s stone is the aquamarine. Varying from shades of very light blue to a richer hue, this color can add a luscious touch to your wardrobe.

I rounded up 9 Aquamarine handbags that are perfect bags and perfect gifts for the March birthday girl who wants to carry an accessory that matches her birthstone.

Diane von Furstenberg Lytton Python-effect Box Clutch | $365 via Net-A-Porter

DvF realized the love of box clutches and filled the niche with a contender at a reasonable price. I adore the turquoise python-effect leather and this clutch works as a compliment to a late winter or spring outfit.

Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC Snake Bag | $195 via ShopBop

A cult classic, I own 7 versions of Rebecca Minkoff’s MAC clutch. This aqua mini snakeskin print rendition adds exotic with affordable in a very wearable design.

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Box Clutch | $850 via Net-A-Porter

Nancy Gonzalez knows to keep sure things simple and does so with her box clutch. There are so many color choices that I think every birthstone will have an option from Nancy.

Salvatore Ferragamo Bice Patent Leather Tote | $925 via Neiman Marcus

Glossy teal patent leather and the iconic Gancini strap, this Ferragamo tote can easily become your go-to. Ferragamo bags are high quality and stand the test of time both aesthetically and physically.

Prada Rose-Applique Clutch | $750 via Neiman Marcus

Truth, this is MY FAVORITE March birthday gift guide pick! Honestly, it seems like Prada was thinking of March babies when it came to this clutch, as it is Aquamarine leather with a retro red/green floral applique. Simply chic!

Anya Hindmarch Valorie Glitter-finish Clutch | $550 via Net-A-Porter

Anya’s Valorie clutch has been a PurseBlog office favorite as the envelope clutch design is classic and the addition of tons of glitter gives a current spin on the bag. Carry this on a night out and grab everyone’s attention.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Clutch | $580 via Net-A-Porter

Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato leather is not only extremely durable, but it is one of the most gorgeous implementations of leather. A bright spot of color on an easy clutch design makes a great addition to your accessory collection.

Foley + Corinna Lady City Tote | $345 via ShopBop

This bag doubles as a handheld bag to a fold over shoulder bag, all while being contemporary and trendy. This bag is perfect for the girl who likes to dress down and loves a usable purse.

Miu Miu Ruched leather clutch | $750 via Net-A-Porter

With feminine bow-like ruching, Miu Miu pairs feminine with bold as this clutch can be used as your outfit statement piece.

Valentine’s Day! If my informal research is any indication, you probably think of it as either your favorite holiday or the worst day of the year, but no matter which you choose, it still comes around once a year, every year. And if you’re in a relationship, that means that you still have to find ways to gently guide your significant other toward the right kind of Valentine’s-appropriate gift. We have a few ideas, obviously, and they’re all shaped like handbags.

This Valentine’s Day Gift Guide is our first of two, and it’s for the partner that wants to hit this Valentine’s Day out of the proverbial park (or who simply has an enviably large discretionary budget and wants to spend it on you). From $270 to $2595, we’ve got plenty of red and pink bags that make great gifts and that will remind you of a very happy V-Day every time you use them.

Valentino Mini VaVaVoom Shoulder Bag, $1695 via Net-a-Porter

Fendi Baguette Shoulder Bag, $1260 via Neiman Marcus

Marc by Marc Jacobs Bob’s Memphis Satchel, $530 via Net-a-Porter

Kate Spade Rosa Tote, $425 via Neiman Marcus

RED Valentino Ombre Chain Clutch, $550 via Saks

Yves Saint Laurent Cabas Chyc Linen Tote, $2595 via Net-a-Porter

Jason Wu Kate Python-Embossed Clutch, $895 via Neiman Marcus

Reed Krakoff Mini Atlantique, $1190 via Neiman Marcus

MICHAEL Michael Kors Margo Shoulder Bag, $270 via Net-a-Porter

We are always giving full-on bags lots of loving, but small accessories are just as integral to our daily lives. From wallets to wristlets to card cases to makeup pouches, small accessories hold the necessities that we carry with us daily. Both handbags and small accessories are meant to be functional, but that doesn’t mean they need to lack style.

So with all of that in mind, I scoured the web to find you 9 of the best small accessories that will make amazing holiday gifts.

Valextra Credit Card Holder | Price $500 via Barneys
This is the perfect gift for the working professional. When you hand out business cards you want to make a statement, and this card holder will do just that.

Comme des Garçons Polka Dot Embossed Pouch | Price $190 via Net-A-Porter
I always carry a couple packets of sugar, some Benadryl, and band-aids in a pouch in my purse. This would be the cutest little accessory to hold an emergency kit.

Balenciaga Giant Mini Cosmetic Case Nickel Hamilton | Price $505 via Barneys
Carry your everyday cosmetic go-to items in a fashionable Balenciaga Cosmetic Case. This little case has every Balenciaga touch I know and love.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hip To Be Square Wristlet | Price $130 via Net-A-Porter
Wristlets do not get enough love, and they should. A wristlet is the perfect night-on-the-town accessory, and Marc by Marc Jacobs knows how to add the right amount of sass to this design.

Kate Spade New York Glitter Little Gia Pouch | Price $75 via Neiman Marcus
This pouch can be handheld as a small clutch or slipped into your bag to hold some small essentials. Kate Spade continues to be one of my favorite brands for a plethora of items.

Proenza Schouler PS1 Continental Wallet | Price $585 via Barneys
Turn to the boys of Proenza Schouler for a totally cool accessory in vibrant colors. I love the green wallet, but there are so many more choices if this wallet doesn’t suit your fancy.

Diane von Furstenberg Harper Wristlet | Price $245 via ShopBop
Another wristlet, only DvF brings refined elegance to this patent leather clutch. This works for happy hour with the girls or date night with your love.

Rebecca Minkoff Neon Lizard Little Louie Key Pouch | Price $65 via ShopBop
Attach this key pouch to your house and/or car keys. It makes your keys easy to find in your bag and also works to take to the gym, grocery shopping, or out for a quick errand.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Wallet | Price $730 via Net-A-Porter
A long zip-around wallet is the only wallet I will carry, and Bottega Veneta offers a beautiful option with their classic intrecciato woven leather.

The month of Valentine’s Day, Fashion Week, and my anniversary is upon us. This month also holds all February birthday babies, whose birthstone is a gorgeous, deep purple amethyst. Purple is one of my favorite colors, as it works as a deep neutral in place of black or brown.

From the chicest Beats by Dr. Dre headphones that I have ever seen to a luxurious phone case to the best purple bags out there right now, I have nine birthday gift ideas for the February birthday girls in your life.

Bottega Veneta Relaxed Lambskin Satchel | $3,400 via Neiman Marcus

There is something very different about the shape of this bag, but the extremely supple leather is sure to grab your attention from the get-go. Because of its shape, this bag is meant to carry everything and anything one might need.

Fendi Zucca-Flap Baguette | $1,520 via Neiman Marcus

As we said earlier, Fendi is trying to bring their Baguette bags back. I love the ornate versions, but a simple leather Baguette may be just what a February birthday baby needs.

Proenza Schouler PS1 Medium Satchel | $1,595 via Net-A-Porter

I apologize to all who are sick of the PS1, but this is not only a fan favorite but one of my favorite bags ever. The cool schoolboy bag is super feminine but still has every bit of pizazz needed to become your go-to bag.

Oscar de la Renta Beats by Dr. Dre | $695 via OscardelaRenta.com

From the moment I heard Oscar was partnering to make the most luxurious Beats by Dr. Dre ever, I decided I most certainly needed a pair. Covered in luxe plum silver fox, this is the perfect gift for the girl who loves listening to music and has everything.

Dolce & Gabbana Sequined Shoulder Bag | $1,375 via Net-A-Porter

I know there are plenty of February birthday girls who love to sparkle and shine, and Dolce & Gabbana has just the bag. This bag also makes a fun Valentine’s day present, hint hint.

Gucci Jackie Medium Hobo | $1,890 via Neiman Marcus

I’ve got a Gucci obsession that I don’t share as much as I should. A classic hobo with a longer shoulder strap and the perfectly sized body makes me crush hard on this iconic bag.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Take Me Tote | $358 via ShopBop

Marc by Marc should be considered for options all the time, including this gift guide. While this tote is simple, it is entirely practical and even looks cute.

Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Bag | $525 via Rebecca Minkoff

A cult favorite, the Morning After Bag is the bag that started it all for Rebecca Minkoff. In a luscious plum hue, this bag is meant to go from day to night to morning.

Hermes HigHtecH | $420 via Hermes

Hermes knows the ladies want to bring luxurious leather into every aspect of their life, including phone covers. For a very simplistic look and feel but high quality leather, the HigHtechH Blackberry cases from Hermes are timeless.

Without a doubt, snakeskin has been the biggest accessories trend of 2011. Everyone from Gucci to Valentino to Diane von Furstenberg has clamored for a piece of the exotic pie, and we’re betting that if you have a handbag lover on your list, she might want a little bit of snake in her stocking as well. Worried that you don’t have the budget for an exotic? Fret not, we have you covered.

From a little to a lot of snakeskin and from printed to embossed to the real thing, the latest installment of our Holiday Gift Guide 2011 deals with all things that slither (or that walk on hooves, but now we pretend that they slither so that we can save some cash). From wallets to everyday satchels, if it has scales, we’ve got it covered.

Gucci 1973 Medium Python Flap Bag, $2900 via Neiman Marcus

Elie Tahari Tammie Bag, $398 via ShopBop

Stella McCartney Falabella Faux Python Tote, $1435 via Net-a-Porter

Kotur Morley Embossed Minaudiere, $560 via Neiman Marcus

Diane von Furstenberg Zip Around Continental Wallet, $245 via ShopBop

Valentino One-of-a-Kind Snakeskin Satchel, was $2895, now $1939 via Neiman Marcus

VBH Brera Shiny Python Tote, $4800 via Bergdorf Goodman

Carlos Falchi East-West Gathered Python Tote, was $2495, now $1671 via Neiman Marcus

Marc by Marc Jacobs Snake Print Nylon Tote, $190 via Net-a-Porter

Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean gift-giving has ended. There are so many other opportunities for us to shop for ourselves and others, one major event being birthdays. For 2012, we will be making birthday gift guides to help you choose the bag you want to ask for or want to give.

Garnet, the birthstone for January, is a deep red stone that signifies eternal friendship. Many say the stone has a resemblance to a pomegranate seed. The hue of red is deep and alluring, also perfectly fitting for the bitterly cold and often snow-filled weather of January. If you want to give a January baby a great birthday gift, pick from one of these nine handbags that are sure to be a long-lasting handbag to add to her collection.

Valentino Mini VaVaVoom Leather Shoulder Bag | Price is $1,695 via Net-A-Porter
This might be my favorite bag of the batch, as the sleek and compact design does not detract from the stand-out design. There is an optional shoulder strap or you can slide your hand behind the studded detailing to clutch it.

Anya Hindmarch Valorie Glitter-finish Leather Clutch | Price is $550 via Net-A-Porter
Some girls have all the fun, and if you know that January baby that is the life of the party, get her the life of the party glitter-covered Anya Hindmarch clutch.

Balenciaga Giant Continental Gold Hamilton | Price is $645 via Barneys
Balenciaga is known for their wide variety of colors, and the Bordeaux color works well for the month of January and can be used for years to come.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Karlie Bag | Price is $258 via ShopBop
The Bordeaux color of this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag is truer to the color garnet, but lacks the bright pop of red that many of our choices have. This deeper color looks sultry and will easily finish off a day or evening look.

Judith Leiber Ladybug Crystal Minaudiere | Price is $4,495 via Neiman Marcus
For the birthday girl who has every bag, gifting a Judith Leiber Minaudiere shows you know that art and fashion are one in the same.

Theyskens’ Theory Atter Medium Turnlock Bag | Price is $545 via ShopBop
The ladylike briefcase bag from Theyskens’ Theory has been on my radar since it hit ShopBop. This bag is all about the luscious red leather and a refined design.

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Box Clutch | Price is $850 via Net-A-Porter
Discreet sophistication is the name of the game and Nancy Gonzalez has the perfect birthday dinner clutch option.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Hamilton Rock N’ Roll Leather Tote | $450 via Net-A-Porter
With a young rocker chick vibe, this MICHAEL Michael Kors bag is large is size and packs a punch with its punk-y silver studded detailing.

Valextra Medium Document Holder | Price is $860 via Barneys
For the girl who loves to travel, give her a garnet colored ostrich flap document holder to hold all of her necessities.

One of the major problems I seem to run into when creating our Gift Guides is that my list of wants grows exponentially as I hunt down the best handbag finds on the web. The focus of this guide are trendy bags. There are two types of trendy: wear-once pieces, and fun, yet wearable pieces.

I focused on the latter. These nine bags have all the right touches of current trends while still being great wardrobe staples. From colorblocking, to buckle detailing, to chunky hardware, if you are looking for a trendy bag for yourself or someone on your list our guide will have your answer:

Alexander Wang Kirsten Suede Tote | Price is $661.50 via ShopBop

A funky take on the classic black suede satchel, Alexander Wang spices the design up with buckle strap detailing all over the outside of the bag. Best part is this bag is currently marked down 30%.

Yves Saint Laurent Muse Two Small Tote | Price is $1,895 via Net-A-Porter

The Muse Two from Yves Saint Laurent could easily be put on our Classic Handbags gift guide, but I opted to go for the bold colorblocked version and include it in our Trendy guide. The red, navy, and sand leather will work with blacks and browns and can easily be dressed up or down.

Valentino Rockstud Leather Tote | Price is $2,895 via Net-A-Porter

Valentino decided to take a stab at slice of luxury purse buyers that love structure and class but have a punk rock side as well. I have always adored the shape of this tote and the studding is done just-right.

Givenchy Tricolor Medium Antigona Duffel | Price is $2,410 via Barneys

A great everyday bag, the colorblocking on this Givenchy bag is slight enough that you can wear it for years to come but adds a nicer touch than a simple single colored bag.

Prada Madras Shoulder Bag | Price is $1,670 via Saks

This Prada bag caught my attention because of its mod black plexi hardware. The black goatskin is offset with a coral hue on the front flap.

Chloe Sally Medium Shoulder Bag | Price is $1,995 via Saks

While there is a cloud and black version, the emerald option for this Chloe bag got my heart going pitter patter. Tranquil hues of blue and green adorn this bag that is ideal to sling over your shoulder and get on the go.

Gucci Soho Large Python Hobo Bag | Price is $3,900 via Saks

Python is always trendy, but this year it has been all the rage. Instead of a natural finish, I love how Gucci amped up the aesthetic appeal of this otherwise classic hobo with purple and blue touches.

Theyskens’ Theory Anen Mini Flap Bag | Price is $325 via ShopBop

You have to check out this bag for the crossed strap details! Leave it to Theyskens’ Theory to design a holster like finish to an otherwise simple flap bag. Save this bag for spring and summer to show the linen body accented by patent leather trim.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Bob’s Memphis Trip Shoulder Bag | Price is $298 via Saks

This bag is fun, young, and totally rocking the colorblocking trend. Marc Jacobs designed a bag that is big enough for day and small enough for night, in two colorways that are just right.

Did you guys know that tomorrow is my birthday? Well, it is. Also, Sunday is Christmas. I bet you knew that part, though. As you might imagine, this is a time of year when people ask me what the hell it is they should buy for me even more than most people get asked that question at the end of the year, and I never have an answer. Ever. I spend my days trawling online retailers for work, so when I see something I HAVE to have, odds are I’ve already broken down and bought it for myself.

For example, I really wanted the Proenza Schouler Blanket Print PS1, but I bought that for myself two weeks ago. And then I really wanted some Dolce & Gabbana oxfords, but those came in the mail today. I’m an utter nightmare when it comes to gift-giving. In the spirit of having some Friday fun, I came up with an array of things that I’d love to find under the tree (or in some birthday wrapping) this weekend. Let us know what you’re hoping to receive in the comments!

As always, we start with a bag. I’ve wanted an Alexander Wang Raphael Crossbody since I saw someone carrying one months ago, and the bright reds and blues that Wang did for Resort 2012 present the perfect opportunity to pounce. Buy through ShopBop for $680.

I’m utterly obsessed with everything that Tom Binns makes, and this neon-splashed Tom Binns Slap Dash Swarovski Bib Necklace could be worn with practically anything I own. (Because I am a crazy person.) Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1900.

My bedding is in need of a solid dose of texture, and this Gift Boutique Faux Chinchilla Blanket would add a serious dose of luxury for a relatively achievable price tag. Buy through ShopBop for $242.

Everything that I said about Tom Binns also goes for Dannijo, and the oversized Dannijo Monaco Earrings flawlessly combine an old school shape and thoroughly modern ideas about color. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $172.

All of the gushing I’ve done about the 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Tote is totally genuine – I want this bicolor version as soon as it comes out. For now, you can shop the solid colored alternative for $750 via Barneys.

I have enough scarves, you have enough scarves, we all have enough scarves. What I need is a Miu Miu Feather Collar. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $730.

I want an iPad. I’m not willing to apologize for that. Buy through Apple starting at $499.

You can dress the Christopher Kane Neon Wool Crepe Dress down with a bulky, chunky cardigan and flats or dress it up with a tuxedo jacket and something sparkly on your feet. I could build a new outfit around this dress every day. I must have it. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1560.

I can’t wear heels (cry a tear for me, go ahead), so I always endeavor to find the jazziest flats that I can. These Maison Martin Margiela Mirrored Oxfords definitely meet my specifications. Buy through ShopBop for $795.

Picking out a designer handbag for someone else is hard. Unless you know that person’s style in and out or she’s given you a specific bag to look for, choosing an expensive gift out of thin air can be a daunting task. We’re here to make it just a little bit easier for you with our Holiday Gift Guide 2011, and today’s installment will focus on the safest kind of accessory gift: The Classic Bag.

These are not your grandma’s classics, though, even if grandma would probably be delighted to receive a few of them. After the jump, we have our picks for nine modern-but-timeless bags that will dazzle the lucky ladies on your giving list. Or, you know, your favorite blogger. My birthday is Christmas Eve. Just saying.

Victoria Beckham Victoria Small Tote, $2995 via Net-a-Porter

Balenciaga Giant Velo Bag, $1895 via Barneys

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote, $1730 via Neiman Marcus

Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap Bag, $4300 via Chanel

Yves Saint Laurent Roady, $1495 via Neiman Marcus

Kate Spade Irving Place Little Nadine Satchel, $395 via Neiman Marcus

Rachel Zoe Margaret Minaudiere, $275 via Neiman Marcus

Proenza Schouler PS11, $1850 via Net-a-Porter

Louis Vuitton Mirabeau PM, $1740 via Louis Vuitton

Let’s be real here: Internet Christmas shopping is basically done. It’s the 22nd, Christmas is on a Sunday this year, life is hard. Our super official Holiday Gift Guide 2011 has come to an end, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t lots of interesting ideas still left rolling around in our heads (or rolling around the vast and unknowable Internet, for that matter). Plus, Christmas isn’t the only time for gifts – people have birthdays every day, right?

Because we have to come up with content until Christmas and you have to have something to read at the office while you wait for vacation to start and pretend to look at an Excel spreadsheet (I know what you’re doing, I’ve been you before), I’ve found a few weird tchotchkes for the person on your list who would shun any item you could find on a gift guide for reasonable people. Or, if you don’t have one of those friends, here’s some pleasantly odd stuff that you can buy on the Internet. For yourself. Because if you don’t know who the weird one in your group is, it’s probably you.

We start, as always, with a handbag. The Matthew Williamson Pom Pom Suede Clutch is covered in craft supplies, so its inclusion on this list should be self-explanatory. By through Net-a-Porter for $1325.

Big, dark, cat-eyed glasses are already a little out in left field, but when you cover them in velvet a la the Givenchy Velvet Cat Eye Glasses? Even better. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $290.

Ever thought about channeling your cooky-chic grandma and starting a figurine collection? The Lanvin Miss Lanvin 32 Porcelain Figurine is the most fashionable place to start. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $750.

We can’t do a gift guide full of luxury quirk without at least a little bit of Marni. Ever wanted to pin some random 80s neon plastic on your shirt? The Marni Brooch Set is just the thing. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $175.

A tiara is way too obvious – the Miu Miu Jeweled Headband is the chicest way to make sure that even if people think you need to be on some mood stabilizers, they know you’ve got taste. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $505.

Nothing says “crazypants and I know it” like a grown woman in a sweater adorned with giant, sparkling parrots. Thus, the Markus Lupfer Sequined Parrot Sweater, $500 via Net-a-Porter.