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Like others, designer Patrick Robinson has our attention at the Gap. On our latest trip to the retailer at The Grove, it was the leather and leather-and-cotton handbags, clutches and totes that got our attention. In a palette of gray, black, stone and ruddy brown, the leather is substantial, giving fold-over clutches (some with handles, some without), fold-over satchels, and big, rounded bags shape. Grommets and stitching detail give the bags a rustic feel without compromising the sophistication. Of course, you pay for this, around $100-$150, depending on the style, but when you consider what you fork over for a handbag—not even a big designer—it might just be worth it.
There are less expensive options in the collection. Woven cotton bags with leather trim run around $50-$75, and are also attractive, though don't meet the same style standards as the all-leather pieces. A couple of the styles are available online, but not the most interesting bags. [RackedWire]