Tods Nylon Messenger Media Bag

I love leather and calfskin as much as the next girl, but the truth is; they’re not environmentally-friendly or kind to animals. (Well, duh.) There’s a lot of fur and leather boycotting, and I’m not going to deny that it’s a good cause. However, the problem with a lot of synthetic bags is that they just don’t look as nice as the real leather ones. Although I know I’m doing a good deed by buying synthetic, I do feel a little sad that the real leather bags are so much nicer. So, I decided to see if there was a premier designer willing to make a bag that doesn’t involve skinning a cow, deer or lamb, and I found one in Tod’s collection.

The Tod’s Nylon Messenger bag is completely synthetic. It’s a beautiful pearlized grey color with silver-toned accents and hardware. I love the cross body strap and the funky exterior zipped pockets. High fashion this isn’t, but it would still look great with any casual or slightly funky outfit. I like it because it’s light, small, and ultimately cool. Plus, I don’t have to worry about carrying something that was once part of a baby animal, which pleases all my fur-boycotting fashionista friends, and, let’s face it – it pleases me, too. Find it at NeimanMarcus.com for $775.00. If you think that’s expensive, think of the lives you’re saving, and the dollars, too – most handbags from premier designers are in the $1500s.

Here’s a lovely synthetic handbag made by Whiting and Davis. The Ruffled Mesh with bamboo handle is a sharp little number made of metal yellow mesh. It comes in other colors, too, depending on your taste. It’s got a mesh ruffle on the bottom and a seven-and-a-half-inch shoulder drop. You can fit most of your small goods in here – I just love the stylish, yet animal-friendly look. Zappos.com has it for $154.00.

Still want a leather look? The Sugar Tony Danza handbag can provide it, synthetically. The name notwithstanding, this purse is actually quite cool. It’s got a crinkled patent leather textured exterior with contrasting topstitching and a curved zipper and oversized zipper pull. I really like the ringed shoulder strap and the plaid fabric lining. It’s a cute, cheap little purse that will dress up any outfit. It comes in brown and red, as well. Endless.com has it for $50.00.