As the writer of Bags, Bling and Beauty, I am kept in the loop on emerging new designers and their incredible creations. I was recently introduced to the designs of Elizabeth Phillips, and her new luxury handbag collection:  ELSPETH.

The East Village tote (pictured) had me at hello.  Crafted from distressed shrunken lambskin, this bag is ultra-slouchy, and the epitome of relaxed urban-chic.  Beyond the amazing design, the bag is also incredibly functional.  Two exterior pockets and three large interior pockets mean you'll never have to fish around in search of your phone, keys or lipstick. The detachable strap enables wearing the bag casually across the body, or hand carrying for a more polished and professional look.

The original retail price of the East Village tote is $318, but it's currently on sale for $255.

Click HERE to check out ELSPETH designs at www.elspethnyc.com.

Do check out ELSPETH's upcoming Fall collection, scheduled for release in August 2009.  Elizabeth Phillips utilized luxe materials like Ostrich skin, Anaconda and leather, and the rich jewel-tones she selected are perfect for Fall. 

Want to see them in the flesh, before you buy?  Stores carrying this hot new brand include VERVE in New York, Cake Jewelery in Los Feliz, CA, Suite Dreams in Birmingham, Alabama, and CLUTCH in my very own Seattle, WA!  Looks like I have some shopping to do…