Vintage Vera...

I can't remember what year they stopped making the Red Leaf pattern or the bag design,

but I love this vintage Vera Bradley handbag.

It's simple, understated and washable.

Who could ask for more?

Besides, it's red!

You paid how much...

for a straw purse?" shrieked my husband when I bought this bag several years ago.  And so began my ongoing love affair with Brighton Bags.  Not that I've bought one in a good long while.  It is interesting to note, however, that not long after I got this bag, my husband bought me a staggeringly expensive black Brighton number which I will feature in a later post.  I just said thank you, though - I didn't shriek about the price.

Christmas in July...

And there I am with a hideous black clutch bag.

I am certainly glad that my taste has improved over the years...  Of course, you can't see my shoes, but I am certain I was wearing penny loafers with white ankle socks.  Such a fashionista!

Hope Garden...

is my favorite Vera Bradley color.  I bought this bag (and the wallet and the eyeglass case and the... you get the picture) last year after tax season as my annual reward for a job well done.  It's become my favorite summer bag - I change to something else and then about a day later I change back.  There's just something about that print that's happy - and it makes me smile.  I didn't really like any of the last batch of new colors and I got an email the other day letting me know that the newest colors are coming out in July.  Maybe I'll like one of the new colors enough to buy a new bag.  I hope not - I save money if I don't like anything!  I have a hard time resisting temptation...