They might have more money than the rest of us, but even Hollywood style icons are tightening their designer belts in the financial crisis. Some of my favorite starlets shared their budget style tips at the recent New York Fashion Week.

Michelle Trachtenberg keeps her quirky style image by mixing pieces from budget retailers H&M and Target into her wardrobe. With designers like Hayden-Harnett and Devi Kroell creating cute accessories for Target, Michelle says even her teen fans can afford to follow her style.

"I have always kept in mind that my fans are teenagers and they don’t have a lot of money to spend. They like to get looks for less," she explained

Spending less is nothing new for 90210 star Jessica Stroup, who says she's "always been a bit frugal." She recommends looking out for sales and reinventing her old pieces. After all, yesterday's It bag is today's vintage statement!

Even heiress Nicky Hilton is getting more financially savvy.

"I'm being smarter about my spending. I'm not going into stores and buying anything. I am buying more pieces instead of just a bunch of clothes," she explained.

Gee, when Nicky Hilton becomes a spendthrift I think we all know times are tough!

[Source: FabSugar]
[Image Source: WatchWithKristin/Flickr]

Designers for Target Handbags on eBay

Gryson for Target BLACK Woven Bag Handbag Purse Tote US $39.99   Auction Ends: 29d 13h 21m Make it yours...

Devi Kroell for Target Anthracite Shopper Tote Handbag US $14.99   Auction Ends: 28d 20h 13m Make it yours...

Botkier for Target Hand Bag Set New US $22.99   Auction Ends: 26d 14h 10m Make it yours...

Craving some luxury fashion but lacking the pocketbook to support it? We women on a budget will appreciate Neiman Marcus' current contest with the coveted prize of $3,000 to spend entirely on Christian Louboutin handbags and shoes.

The only requirement is to submit your e-mail address info on the store's contest page. Don't worry if you're already receiving internet updates from Neiman Marcus. Just confirm your e-mail address to enter like everyone else.

Of course, one has to wonder how far $3,000 will get you with designer items like Louboutin. It'll probably get you one fabulous bag like the Cancan Feathered Clutch and maybe one or two pairs of those famous red-soled heels. 

Don't drag those Louboutin-ready feet, though. This Neiman Marcus shopping spree contest will close on March 18th. Click here to read all about the details and to enter.

[Source: Luxist]

Christian Louboutin Handbags on eBay

Christian Louboutin hand bag US $599.99   Auction Ends: 15d 10h 53m Make it yours...

Christian Louboutin Shocking Pink Satin Clutch Hand Bag US $249.00   Auction Ends: 13d 9h 48m Make it yours...

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN RED PATENT LEATHER HANDBAG NEW TAG US $1,058.88   Auction Ends: 7d 2h 5m Make it yours...

Nahui Ollin is a big name in the environmentally-friendly fashion world. Her use of recycled everyday items makes her a leader when it comes to inventive designs.

The candy wrappers, soda bottle labels, and other various papers can sometimes look very similar to me from bag to bag at a distance. However, each is really unique up close with many bags offered in the multi-colored Tuttifrutti, like on this Ritual Tote, and in Letters, as on the Rosy Cheeks Wristlet.

This handbag is not for anyone who wants to blend into a crowd, though. The bright colors are enough to keep the shy from carrying it, but it's perfect for gals who want to stand out or don't mind inviting conversation from strangers.

It has sturdy leather handles and a handy buckled flap with a magnetic closure for style and practicality. The Ritual holds a decent amount of items and even has an interior pocket for small things.

Recycled material doesn't always mean inexpensive, though. Handmade and intricately woven can often carry a high cost. This paper and leather Nahui Ollin Ritual retails for $165, which seems a bit much to me for a bag you can't wear with everything. For a truly one-of-a-kind purse, though, I suppose it's a fair price to pay.

More Features of the Ritual Tote

• Measures 16 x 11 x 3 inches
• Double leather straps with 11 inch drop
• Interior zippered compartment

Nahui Ollin Ritual Totes on eBay

Womens Nahui Ollin Ritual Handbag Barcode NWT US $109.99   Auction Ends: 19d 6h 56m Make it yours...

NEW Nahui Ollin Ritual TUTTI FRUTTI W02 TF US $129.00   Auction Ends: 1d 19h 56m Make it yours...

• Get the Ritual bag on Amazon
• Click here to search all Nahui Ollin handbags on eBay

I'm aware the credit crunch is upon us, so I'd like to fantasize about owning what I like to call "cute, clever clutches". A cute and clever clutch is just that - adorable and completely frivolous.

It's not the wisest handbag investment, but its clever design is appealing and very tempting.

The three clutches/evening bags I've picked are not for the froogle buyer. These bags are for women who appreciate interesting designs and more importantly can afford them.

Christian Louboutin Pliage Framed Clutch

First up is the Christian Louboutin Pliage Framed Clutch. This 7.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 pleated clutch is a lovely choice for an evening out. The nude-colored, slightly shimmery leather exterior is only upstaged by the clever high-heeled clasp closure (an obvious homage to Louboutin's mastery of shoe making).

• Christian Louboutin Pliage Framed Clutch available for $1195

Christian Louboutin Clutches on eBay

NEW CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN NEWSPAPER CLUTCH PURSE BAG US $595.00   Auction Ends: 24d 16h 49m Make it yours...

Christian Louboutin Black Fur Patent Leather Clutch Bag US $569.00   Auction Ends: 27d 6h 16m Make it yours...

Marc Jacobs Love Story Clutch

Next is the Marc Jacobs Love Story Clutch. Aaahhhh, doesn't the name just make you want to go out and hug your significant other, or, perhaps, buy a puppy? All kidding aside, this cute clutch is not for everyone. It's quite large measuring 12.5 x 7.5 x 2.5, and features metallic heart cutouts in varying sizes covering the front exterior. It's available in both white and silver, but the chalk white version is less kitschy.

• Alexander McQueen Skull Clutch available for $1670

Marc Jacobs Clutches on eBay

NWT MARC JACOBS BLUE PICNIC FLAP CLUTCH WALLET $248 US $139.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 14h 23m Make it yours...

NWT MARC JACOBS QUILTED CLUTCH WRISTLET PURSE US $15.00   1 Bid Auction Ends: 16h 4m Make it yours...

Alexander McQueen's Skull Clutch

The last bag, Alexander McQueen's Skull Clutch, is nothing we haven't seen before from McQueen. It boasts a rounded, structured frame, jeweled skull clasp and violet-hued iridescent finish. It measures 6.5 x 3.5 x 2 so it can only serve as an evening bag.

• Marc Jacobs Love Story Clutch available for $795

Alexander McQueen Clutches on eBay

BRAND NEW Alexander McQueen Pink Skull Clutch US $1,575.00   Auction Ends: 13d 14h 46m Make it yours...

NWT ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Antique Gold Python Skull Clutch US $1,675.00   Auction Ends: 13d 7h 56m Make it yours...

Of the three bags featured, I'd have to go with McQueen's Skull Clutch. It's a beautiful bag with classic appeal yet conveys a modern aesthetic. See which one speaks to you and fantasize about owning it or go out and actually buy it, but always, and I mean always, shop responsibly.

(Remixed from Dania P.: Cute, Clever Clutches)

Republishing License

Timmy Woods made a big impression with her Eiffel Tower bag, carried by Carrie Bradshaw in the original Sex and the City movie. Now she’s turning her attention to another famous landmark.

Timmy will gift First Lady Michelle Obama with a specially designed White House handbag, covered with Swarovski crystals in true Timmy Woods style. I can't wait to see it!

"She is getting a crystal-covered bag from us in the shape of the White House to commemorate her first 100 days as the First Lady," said designer Timmy Woods, who's currently in London to promote her latest kitsch creations.

They include the Winston, a British bulldog that is one of ten limited edition British-themed bags, and a poodle purse resembling her own pampered pooch.

"It's based on my dog Juliet. A lot of movie stars buy the dog bag because if they can't take their dog somewhere, they can take their bag!"

It makes sense to me!

[Source: Grazia]
[Image Source: Dbking/Flickr]

Timmy Woods Handbags on eBay

NWT Timmy Woods Eiffel Tower SIGNED Purse Handbag US $299.99   Auction Ends: 24d 8h 39m Make it yours...

NICE TIMMY WOODS GOLD HEART HANDBAG US $51.00   6 Bids Auction Ends: 5h 31m Make it yours...

Timmy Woods Baseball Purse Handbag Signed retails $200 US $79.99   1 Bid Auction Ends: 21h 20m Make it yours...

On the heels of the recent announcement of Versace's re-launch of their younger, hipper, more affordable offshoot Versus, we recently found out that Christopher Kane will be temporarily joining the company's team to create a line of handbags and shoes for the rejuvenated brand.

The British designer isn't new to the company, though. He has worked with Versace's Autelier Couture line and even consulted on some of their accessories making this new Versus collaboration right up his alley.

Kane was recently in the spotlight at London Fashion Week with his new autumn/winter collection. The up-and-coming designer has quite a celebrity following and has been showcased on several popular retail sites including Net-a-Porter.  

Look for more info about his Versace Versus bag and shoe collection at Milan Fashion Week, which is right around the corner. Evidently Kane's mentor Donatella Versace will be making the announcement herself. Now that's flattery indeed.

[Source: Telegraph]

Versace Handbags on eBay

VERSACE STYLE HANDBAG BLACK LEATHER MEDUSA HEAD US $26.00   2 Bids Auction Ends: 12h 7m Make it yours...

New Versace Empire Satchel Handbag Retail $1790 US $1,350.00   Auction Ends: 22d 21h 31m Make it yours...

Designer Versace Yellow croc hand bag NR gently used US $799.00   Auction Ends: 15h 53m Make it yours...

Nothing quite personifies to me the quirky side of Marc Jacobs' personality like his recurring fashion character (and possibly alter ego) Miss Marc.

In contrast to the often classic styles of his parent brand Marc Jacobs, the offshoot brand Marc by Marc Jacobs is the perfect place to showcase this graphic screenprinted gal. The unique Miss Marc has graced everything from shirts to ballet flats and now this casual spring/summer hobo handbag.

Though she often looks sad, a little lonely, even peakish at times, this lavender linen-blend purse is a nice place for her to reside. She seems content on the happy color and maybe somewhat perky seeing as she's got a smile and heart-shaped sunglasses. It's as if she's ready to bask in the warm, sunny weather ahead.

Without the presence of Miss Marc, this handbag is quite ordinary and simple with a typical size and amount of storage. I do, however, appreciate the addition of a removable canvas strap that gives the wearer multiple carrying options.

The retail price of $178 seems a tad high for a regular linen hobo bag. However, with a recognizable character like Miss Marc, it's not too much if you're aiming for brand recognition. Look for this happy personality on several other bags including a larger satchel.

More Features of the Miss Marc Flat Hobo

• Measures 18 x 13.5 x 5 inches
• Single strap with 8 inch drop
• Detachable, adjustable shoulder strap
• Signature jumbled letter lining

Marc by Marc Jacobs Miss Marc Bags on eBay

Marc by Marc Jacobs Miss Thing Bag Purse Brown Leather US $129.99   Auction Ends: 6d 19h 45m Make it yours...

Marc Jacobs Miss Marc Tote bag US $86.00   0 Bid Auction Ends: 1d 13h 22m Make it yours...

• Get this Miss Marc Flat Hobo on Amazon
• Search all Marc Jacobs handbags on eBay

I really would like to get my hands on the MARC by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Zag Hobo.

This is relaxed chic at its finest and cheapest. Which is not to say there is anything remotely cheap-looking about this fabulous bag.

In fact, I'm amazed it's priced at only $548. I know the 'Moto Proto Zag' is part of Marc Jacobs' moderately-priced MARC line, but, c'mon, this hobo screams "modern sophistication".

I've seen similar bags with less style and steeper price tags.

So what do you get for $548? How does a sumptuous leather exterior sound for starters? Add three front pockets (two flap, one zippered), comfy, flat shoulder straps, a magnetic-snap closure and several interior compartments, and you've got a bag every woman can use.

It measures a very roomy 13 x 17.5 x 6.5 and has a 10" shoulder strap drop for added comfort. You can choose this timeless design in black or a heavenly shade of grey. Either choice will translate into a wise handbag investment.

• MARC by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Zag Hobo available via BarneysNY

(Republished from SenoraCartera.com: MARC by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Zag Hobo)

Marc Jacobs Hobo Bags on eBay

MARC JACOBS CLASSIC Q HILLIER HOBO BAG BLACK SMALL US $349.95   Auction Ends: 23d 17h 24m Make it yours...

NWT MARC JACOBS FARIDAH WHITE TURNLOCK HOBO PURSE BAG US $349.00   Auction Ends: 10h 33m Make it yours...

Usage License

As the financial crisis takes hold, all eyes are on designers like Kotur who somehow manage to produce exotic purses while keeping their prices down. Snakeskin purses often cost thousands, but for just $619 you can snag this gorgeous Riddick clutch.

There's no imitation python here. The Riddick is made from patches of authentic Ayers snakeskin pieced together to form a gorgeous chevron pattern. The predominantly white purse is complemented by glamorous swatches of metallic silver and gold.

The Riddick closes with a signature Ascher crystal clasp. The effect is reminiscent of the vintage clutches Hollywood beauties like Bette Davis and Ingrid Bergman carried in the 1940s, one of pure understated elegance.

Of course the interior is on the small side, but it's a lot more modern than you might expect. Cell phone and Blackberry compartments take care of all your high-tech gadgets, while a zippered pocket is ideal for stashing loose change.

Who says you have to do without those modern conveniences if you want to go vintage?

More Features of This Kotur Riddick Clutch

• Leather lined interior
• Measures 12.5 x 5.25 x 1.75 inches

Kotur Vintage Clutches on eBay

KOTUR Blue Pink Vintage Brocade Clutch Purse Wallet NEW US $325.00   Auction Ends: 24d 13h 9m Make it yours...

KOTUR Black Vintage Brocade Clutch Purse Wallet NEW NWT US $325.00   Auction Ends: 24d 13h 9m Make it yours...

Also See

• Click here to see more from Sophie Jasmine's Closet on eBay – A Kotur Handbags Retailer
• All Kotur bags on eBay

This playful messenger bag can add a little personality to your everyday wardrobe.

The messenger has a traditional flap style, but that doesn't mean it runs with the pack. The bright yellow fabric and bold "Feed Me" design by My Social Buttons give this handbag a geek chic appeal. A contrasting black shoulder strap and trim complete this bold look.

This polyester handbag is spacious enough to carry a laptop to school or the office, but versatile enough to work as a fun diaper bag or shoulder purse for any casual outing. The main compartment has a handy slip pocket, while the front panel has a hidden zippered pocket for convenient and safe storage. An adjustable clasp on the front flap is an inspired touch, offering more security than your average messenger.

With a retail value of less than £15 ($19), this bag is a real bargain for the openly geeky fashionistas.

• Click here to buy this "Feed Me" bag

More Features of This RSS Feed Handbag

• Made from 600 Denier Polyester
• An adjustable 2 inch shoulder strap
• Measures 14.5 x 12 x 5 inches

Fun Bags on eBay

Small Campy Airplane Themed Purse Makeup Bag FUNNY US $9.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 15h 47m Make it yours...

P021 Pink Punk Funny Hedgehog Mini Waist Pack Bag US $1.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 1d 19h 21m Make it yours...

Pucca Funny Love Messenger Bag US $8.00   0 Bid Auction Ends: 1d 19h 53m Make it yours...

Also See

• All messenger bags on eBay