CITYist

Jenny Bird, a jewelry and handbag designer based in Toronto, is one designer who refuses to believe that the past is no longer a part of our future.

Handbag designer Katherine Kwei is just the epitome of class. Walk into her Manhattan apartment and you are surrounded by luxury and beauty—and her sophisticated collections reflect just that.

What better excuse to pick up a new bag for fall then if it retails under $400—and looks cute, to boot. This season, we’re digging the new Michael by Michael Kors bags, especially the Large Satchel in Camo Leather ($328) and the Hamilton Large Tote in Luggage Leather ($298). See what we mean after the jump.

World travel is the inspiration behind this fall’s collection of leather handbags by Patricia Nash. Each named for some of the most popular European destinations—Barcelona, Paris, Prague and Milan, for example—the buckle-heavy purses are constructed of vintage Italian leather and perfect for exploring the streets of the cities they represent. Whether you’re into the dipped leather (Barcelona), the flap (see Prague) or the convertible satchel (Milan), each flairs with sophistication and a slightly worn quality that enhances its appeal—all at very affordable prices. (Like, say, under $250.) Pick them up this September in department stores.

Prepare for a new kind of industrial revolution—the kind you can wear on your shoulders and hold in your hands. Wendy Stevens gives women a futuristic alternative with her comprehensive collection of handcrafted metal handbags. Yes, metal. The woven steel yields intriguing designs while managing to retain the brand’s self-described “50s sensibility” with its timeless shapes. Styles range from a strapless evening clutch perfect for a night out (Billfold $340) to a scaled tote that comfortably accommodates all of your essentials (Bib Bag $630). More of our favorite models after the jump.

There is a sense in the fashion world that anything Kate Moss (whose personal style captivates people just as much as the brands she represents) touches turns to gold. Longchamp, the French leather craftsmen, are ready to test that theory out with a line of signature hand bags christened, simply, Kate Moss for Longchamp. The long-running face of the brand (eight seasons, to be exact) has loaned her personal taste and preferences to a collection of bags encompassing everything from travel duffels to envelope clutches—all, with a zebra print here and a braided detail there, designed to emanate the effortless cool of Kate.