Since I’m almost 30 (don’t remind me), I’ve long learned to focus on craftsmanship over glitz when it comes to any bag I recommend–let alone one that I would carry myself. Admittedly, I am a Bag Snob when it comes to this (I’ve got standards to uphold, right?) so the moment this navy Taiga calf leather zippered tote came down the Louis Vuitton Spring 2010 runway on the hand of the handsome Gabriel Aubry (aka Mr. Halle Berry), I swooned like mad. I’ve always admired Vuitton’s sober Taiga line (remember the classic burgundy and forest green hues?), so to see this practical shape cast in a crisp NAVY is sheer bliss. I normally hate zippers on the outside of bags, but the subtlety of these work for me. I also love the palladium over gold trim and the adorable padlock feature reminiscent of the women’s “Lock-It bag. It’s also got some nifty exterior features–including a leather side handle and soft handles–that hark back to Vuitton’s luggage-making days. The vertical shape is also ideal for this Man Snob to haul his magazines and newspapers while on the go. All in all, this bit of eye candy is top on my list for spring and a great complement to the Vuitton Naxos leather doctor’s bag I picked up a few seasons back. Yes, it’s expensive. But oh-so-worth-it in my book. $2,330 (866.VUITTON or www.louisvuitton.com)
