Donna, Lulu, Kate, Amber. No, these are not the latest batch of Top Models, they are some of the bag lines from the incredibly talented Katherine Kwei. A former PR executive, Katherine decided to pursue her dream of designing handbags in 2002. Graduating from the London College of Fashion, Katherine worked with Susan Hunter and Billy Bag Company during her studies. In 2006, she worked with Zac Posen on his Spring/Summer line and launched her line in 2007.

That 2007 collection caught my attention and I fell in love with her Donna line. I still love that style, but she has developed so many other unique styles utilizing her Chinese knot technique, there’s essentially a bag for every fashion type out there! Whether you love glam rock or are a sensible and ultra-fashionable executive, you will find something to treasure!

The Spring/Summer 2011 collection pays tribute to the music of the psychedelic ’60s to the ’80s disco scene and that vibrant, playful, stylish woman who everyone notices in the scene and everyone wants to be with one day. The new colors and styles will make it hard for you to choose, but so much fun exploring the possibilities!

Following the convertible trend, the Donna line adds a new, large hobo with a detachable, adjustable strap. In the snake version, beautiful and sophisticated grey/gold and a leopard print are stunning and versatile. The hand-dyed lambskin with watersnake versions features a rich chocolate, black and metallic. The Donna Batik line features brilliantly shaded turquoise and tangerine options. All of which are available in the six Donna styles.

The calfskin Amber bag with it’s multiple convertible possibilities: clutch, shoulder, cross-body in with weave, weave reversed metallic or simply without the weave is now available in a large messenger version. Beautiful colors of chocolate, vanilla, aqua, fern and sunflower provide so many amazing possibilities!

The Joyce is your fun everyday bag available in fern, sunflower and aqua. It now has two styles with the addition of the large tote with zippered opening. The supple calfskin is soft and durable for your daily ventures.

Another enduring style, the calfskin Edna is available in the three springtime colors of aqua, fern and sunflower. There are three styles of which the pochette and tote both feature detachable adjustable straps.

The Kate carryall, Boston, tote and mini-bag are all available in rich chocolate and burnt orange tones. Featuring embossed lambskin, this line has a more rugged look with wide straps, buckles, and double Chinese knot details.

For the high-styled fashionista, there’s the Isabel in luxurious snake-printed lambskin featured in aqua and cream. Structured styling with double handled totes, shoulder bags, elaborate clutches and the new and inventive “bubble” bag provide plenty of choices. Elaborate knotting in a well-organized grid, all over columns or a big bold statement are hallmarks of these incredible bags.

The newest entry to the structured bag style is the Lulu. This beautiful bag is for the woman who wants a relaxed but still structured bag. Distressed lambskin and exposed rivets give it a more casual vibe. The elaborate knotting along the handle is unique and stunning, somewhat reminiscent of a beautifully designed guitar straps. Simple knot detailed across the front of the bag pull the look together. Finished with rolled-leather double-handles. This bag is going to be well loved for many years.

Katherine has wonderful small leather goods in this collection as well. The Clea small to larger wallet range now includes a clutch with a flap opening and interior zippered pocket. A richly patterned aqua/gold snake print version will pair well with many bags or stand-alone while a turquoise option is for the fun-side of all of us.

Don’t forget her charms for your bag or a perfect gift. This season, Katherine is featuring a love theme with “X” & “O” charm, pursed lips and a layered heart for your pleasure!

While I have my personal favorites, I’d love to hear about yours. There are so many stand-out pieces in this collection that it’s hard to say which will be the big sellers, but my closet might be welcoming Amber, Donna, Lulu…. darn! It’s just so hard to choose!

This collection begins shipping February 15, 2011. So, mark your calendars ladies!

Shop Katherine Kwei at these Boutiques: KatherineKwei, Stefani Bags and MuseTen