What do you get when you mix the panache of a European flea market with sleek python snake skin, a welcome dose of vintage flair and a trusty pearl-wearing Chihuahua named Charo? Jane August handbags, of course! Sold everywhere from Fred Segal to Bergdorf Goodman, to smaller boutiques in Singapore and beyond, this New York-based emerging accessories designer knows how to work her leather.

Originally an international fashion merchant, August draws her design inspiration from personal experience and memories of the past: "I don't necessarily like to be like other designers. I don't follow a trend. I don't copy anybody. I take inspiration from things that have been done in the past." Think old-school fashion magazines and '50s-era photos of her mother at swanky dinner parties. Made from the finest quality Italian leather and exotic skins, the glamorous collection is big, bold and a whole lot of beautiful. Handcrafted in family-owned factories in Italy, each roomy piece is as unique as it is totally timeless and chic.

A marriage of modern hardware and classically beautiful construction, the chunky chains and gilded buckles perfectly complement August's glistening skins and lustrous leathers. And with clutches, totes, and shoulder bags aplenty, she's got you covered no matter what the occasion—many will even work as small but luxe carry-on bags for travel. Utilizing brightly-colored leathers in the spring and metallics and deeper hues for autumn, August's covet-worthy line is sure to get you wherever you need to go.

Jane August may already have met success, but she has no thoughts of slowing down. Rather, she has already launched a belt collection and a line of men's bags, and is looking toward expanding her accessories collection in the coming seasons. Let's just hope that there's room for all of the inevitable razzle dazzle.

For more information please visit www.janeaugust.com.

- Lauren Kramer

Similar Topics:accessories, fall 2008, fashion, handbags

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