If I were spending my birthday weekend in the islands, this is the travel bag I’d take because it’s cute, casual and has room for everything I could possibly need, including a few extra outfits, shoes and of course, handbags! Read the full story

One of things I love about the cold weather is breaking out those handbags specifically designed with fall and winter in mind. The GAP wool-blend duffle bag in rich chocolate brown plaid is great for an overnight trip. It’s spacious, stylish and also perfect to carry on a flight. Price: $49.50 at GAP.

While reading an article on Fashion.net, I came across Tote Le Monde’s website. I always like to visit the ‘About Us’ section to get a feel for the company/designer’s background and mission. Discovering how Tote Le Monde came into existence was inspiring since I have goals of starting my own handbag collection.

Tote Le Monde was founded by Tia Wou in 1994 to create functional and beautiful accessories to “carry the world!” Tia and her high school friend Anna set out to create an environmentally friendly, durable, functional yet fashionable carryall. Tote Le Monde embraced the market bag concept by introducing the American Market Tote Collection, great for shopping, a day at the beach or that perfect weekend getaway. Tote Le Monde soon became branded for its American Market Tote and recyclable plastic material, known as Wootex, which is vibrant, woven and exclusive to Tote Le Monde.

Tia sold the first collection from boutique to boutique herself, while Anna oversaw the production of each bag. The collection has grown and is now carried by major department stores, such as Barneys, Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel, and in boutiques worldwide. Stop by ToteLeMonde.com to view the entire collection and to purchase one of the bags below.

Jackson Pocket Tote with soft woven straps can be used as a picnic basket. It can also be used as a beach bag, gym bag or stroller bag. It has 6 outside pockets to keep everything in its place and easily accessible, price: $58.00

DC Tote, with leather shoulder straps, is the perfect way to bring a bottle of wine to a friend’s party or stylishly carry your daily things, price: $42.00

Napa Duffle – soft woven shoulder straps, is great for weekend getaways or as the perfect gym bag. The double zip closure allows you to keep your belongings safe and the bag is rinseable, price: $60.00

Botkier Sasha Mini Leather Duffle Bag in marine blue lambskin, Price: $595.00 at Neimanmarcus.com