Originally published on Tongue in Chic, 4 October 2012

Whether you want a black bag, but are worried about it being too boring or “safe”, or would like something with attitude and personality without being too bold then September’s edition of Splurge or Steal will surely tickle your fancy because this month, I’ve scoped out black shoulder bags, with chain details.

First up, this month’s Splurge is a shoulder bag from Stella McCartney’s Falabella range. An Animal Rights advocate, McCartney is known for using environmentally-friendly materials. In fact, all of the bags from her label are made of faux animal skins. Now, don’t be put off just yet because the bags are still just as luxe, and even have the exact look and texture of leather, unlike the pleather or vinyl and PVC sort that come off very strongly as leather wannabes. Even though they’re not made of real leather, the bags from the Falabella range are a celebrity favourite. I’ve picked this particular bag from the Falabella because it is quite unusual for bags from the line to have contrast-coloured two-toned details. It pops where the electric blue whipstitched “leather” bits merge with the chain. Stella McCartney will be stocked at the new Club21 Multi-Label boutique that’s set to open its doors at Pavilion next month, but since the brand isn’t available in Malaysia just yet, you can purchase this piece via Farfetch (which ships to Malaysia) for US$ 817 (approximately RM 2,595, inclusive of shipping).

The Steal I’ve selected is similar in shape and style, with whipstitched leather bits that attach the chain to the bag. But what’s even better is that it isn’t just a shoulder bag because all you need to do is tuck the shoulder strap in and it can double as a clutch that would fit quite comfortably under your arm! While McCartney’s version is fab, I actually prefer this because of the double flaps, which is something we don’t see around too often. Snap up this piece for RM259 from the Mango Touch store at Mid Valley Megamall.

Now, the big question is, would you pick the Splurge or the Steal to sass up your wardrobe?

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Image credit: Mango, Farfetch