I discovered Fashionjenn Handbags at Smashing Darling, one of my new favorite websites and community for indie designers. I was immediately attracted to the bold, edgy, textured designs. Read the full story

Peep Accessories is a collection of completely handmade – all knitted or crocheted – handbags, clutches, evening bags, and wallets. Each bag is made with love and finished with exceptional detail. Read the full story

It excites me to discover new handbag collections with original, creative design concepts that make a statement. Read the full story

Jalda Hoff launched a line of handbags and computer bags in 2002, when she noticed a need for stylish and functional “work” bags. Read the full story

Janelle Ford Handmade Laptop Clutch, Price: $225.00 at JanelleFord.com

With the launch of JanelleFord.com, I had to feature the talented designer and her exquisite handbags on Handbag Report. Designed for the woman who is confident, independent and enjoys her individuality, Janelle Ford is committed to designing exclusive handmade handbags with intricate details that are not just trendy, but also timeless. Her own personal style is reflected in every handbag she designs. Janelle Ford continues to challenge herself as a self-taught designer to manifest quality, rich, handmade designs that will stand the test of time. Janelle Ford handbags tend to appeal to the discriminating shopper who appreciates excellent quality and exceptional style. Her collection of handbags are beautifully designed with only the finest materials, including suede, ostrich, alligator, python, and other exotic leather and high-end fabrics. Janelle Ford has been commissioned to design bags for musicians to stylishly tote their instruments. Additionally, she has a highly-anticipated forthcoming line of bags for men entitled Gordon Mann.

The Celebrity Satchel is Janelle Ford’s “Bag of the Moment”. It is made of premium Nappa Leather and lined with a heavy cotton fabric. It is available in chocolate (shown on left), British tan, taupe, dark gray, red and black. Price $525.00. Visit JanelleFord.com to check out her latest collection. My favorites are the Cantina and the Laptop Clutch.

Designs by Jayne was brought to my attention by a loyal reader of Handbag Report and close friend of the designer. The story behind the beautiful bags is inspiring. Jayne Dearborn began creating handbags as a path to healing from the loss of her young son at age 7 to leukemia. Launching Designs by Jayne has allowed her to combine her love of art with her mission of helping others find their unique style and thrive.

Designs by Jayne handbags are one-of-a-kind, limited edition, works of art individually created from the most exquisitely delicious fabrics and leathers. The handles, accents and trims are designed from the highest-quality materials including semi-precious stones, vintage beads and buttons, crystal and sterling silver. All materials are hand cut and individually sewn. Each handbag has its own unique style intended to empower and inspire women.

Jayne donates her handbags to fundraisers of organizations that help children with cancer and support grieving families. Jayne and her husband are currently developing a non-profit organization in her son’s memory to which a percentage of all proceeds from all handbags will be donated. Visit DesignsbyJayne.com to view her three distinct collections: European Romance, On the Town (my favorite!) and Around Town.

The unique graphic designs first caught my eye, but once I discovered their commitment to using eco-friendly products, I fell in love with Kling handbags. Natasha Kimling Kwan is the owner and designer of Kling, a handbag company with deep beliefs in being good to our bodies, our well being, our health and psyche. The first bags were handmade out of duct tape. Kling was an instant success to local and regional indie craft sales. Today, a polyurethane based fabric is used to make Kling bags feel like lambskin. There are no plasticizers, heavy metals, formaldehyde or pyroxylin in the fabric. Each bag is still made by hand in New York. Visit klingbags.com to view the entire clutch collection.

Liucia’s design is a fusion of East meets West within an avante-garde parade of textures, cuts and shapes – always with a suggestion of the feminine. Liucia’s O Bag is stunning rich colors and lush images from vintage Maru Obi silk complimented by modern embellishments. Each clutch is handmade and limited to one original with about five to six pieces from each original Kimono Obi belt. Visit Liucia.com to view the entire collection of totes, shoulder bags and clutches.