{CLOSED} Featured Handbag in the Spotlight: Pelle Camden Belted Leather Satchel Giveaway! Ends 5/31

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Wilsons Leather! We look forward to working with you again! The winner has been notified and upon confirmation, follower name will be posted both here and on our homepage. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Ascending Butterfly's Spotlight Handbag of the Month, brought to you by:

This month we are hitting you with a dual selection, both a Featured Handbag of the Month, AND a Mother's Day Buying Guide Recommendation! We've switched gears from home back to Fashion, and I have a great recommendation from Wilson's Leather!

It's no secret that my biggest weakness are quality Leather Handbags, and my very first one was a black leather crossbody I purchased from Wilsons Leather when they first set up shop in my local mall when I was a teenager. And quite frankly that bag set the bar high. The leather was buttery soft, it had all the organizational features I needed, and it held up for YEARS. (And yes me being a very typical New Yorker, I did get it in Black!)

I have purchased quite a few bags and leather jackets from Wilson's since then both on an offline, and find that I keep going back, and I think of them first, because the service at their brick and mortar locations are amazingly attentive, never intrusive, always welcome, friendly and helpful. The online service is amazingly fast, and there are customer reviews available for the products so you can get real customer feedback and ideas regarding sizing! And whether I shop at one of their many retail locations, or I choose to shop online, I know I'm getting a great deal coupled with amazing quality.

Wilson's pricing allows you to add to your accessory wardrobe without breaking the bank. You can stay on trend with a seasonal color bag or jacket of exceptional quality, look like you spent a million bucks but not have to cringe when the bill comes in!

Pelle Camden Belted Leather Satchel

Pelle Camden Satchel

While your name may not be Jane Birkin, and Hermes may not be beating down a path to your door to design you a custom handbag that costs more than a House down payment, you can still very much feel and look like you do!

Wilson's Pelle Camden Satchel is bound to turn heads! Whether you are shopping for a style savvy, fashion forward mom, someone with a very special birthday coming up, or just want to make her smile, THIS is definitely the way to say I Love You!

Bag Deets:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Two 23" rolled carry handles (Drop: 8½")

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Gold-tone hardware

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Front buckle detail; protective metal base feet; structured base

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Zip-across top closure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2-section interior with zippered divider; zippered interior pocket; 3 card slots; 2 open accessory sleeves; open cell phone sleeve

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Genuine leather

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Full lining

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 11"W x 9"H x 4"D

My Take

I love this bag, it's sophisticated, stylish, well constructed, and very nicely designed. This is the bag you take to that big meeting, and then it will take you effortlessly into evening because it's not a huge satchel, it's very much structured!

This is the bag mom may not ask you for, but she definitely wants! I'd recommend tucking a gift card to her favorite restaurant in one of the card slots......(you do want to be mom's favorite don't you?) ;)

Only bad thing ladies, is you will definitely want one in every color! The good thing is, at these prices you can afford to and not feel guilty!

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Wilsons Leather have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will win the Pelle Camden Belted Leather Satchel in their choice of color!

Don't you just ♥ Wilsons Leather? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Visit Wilsons Leather and then Link us to any item you like other than the Pelle Camden Belted Leather Satchel! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Sunday, May 01, 2011 until Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! Please rock the vote for me (this is a ONE TIME ONLY so you can only get this extra credit once), by voting for Tracy Iglesias here (I'm the one in the Red Leather Jacket!) :-) http://www.yourbestpose.com/competition/?id=1#6

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Mother's Day Fun share with us your favorite advice that your mom has given you! (and yes, if you were not raised by your mom, you can share with us the best wisdom received by the person who did raise you!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our NEW Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you have our old one, please swap it out, our URL address has changed!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @wilsonsleather on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Ascending1 on Twitter (this is Ascending Butterfly's new account, we will soon be hosting twitter parties which necessitates having a second account so you can make updates throughout the entire party!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ @Ascending1 + @wilsonsleather Spotlight Handbag of the Month #Giveaway! ARV $225! Ends 05/31 http://tinyurl.com/4xbcvgg

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Wilsons Leather and tell them Ascending Butterfly Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

{CLOSED} Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! ARV $200! Ends 04/01

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Wilsons Leather! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is hondaray6. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Ascending Butterfly's Spotlight Handbag of the Month, brought to you by:

My favorite feature is back! This is absolutely my favorite time of the month, it's Spotlight Handbag of the Month time! And from a brand I know quite well. My very first Leather Handbag ever, that I bought for myself was as an early teen. Wilsons Leather had actually just set up shop in my local mall, and I found a black leather crossbody bag that I had to have. I bought it and that bag lasted me for years! It was one of my favorites. When it was time to replace that bag, I happened upon another Wilsons Leather while I was on vacation in Atlantic City. I arrived very close to closing and I was worried that since I'm pretty particular when it comes to my bags that I wouldn't have enough time to shop.

Not only was the staff super helpful, but there was also a great sale going on that I wasn't even aware of. Bonus! While I love the bag I bought it's totally a more 'winter oriented' bag.

With Daylight Savings Time quickly approaching I'm definitely thinking Spring! I'm a Spring Baby and the signs of Spring outdoors like the birds chirping outside my window, the first butterfly sightings, start to reveal themselves in fashion too.

Here in New York City I can't wait to shed the layers. The bulky sweaters. The heavy coats. Hats. Scarves. Gloves. I can't wait to begin the process of 'lightening' up my closet, my wardrobe and without a doubt my accessories.

Pelle Hinges Leather Cinch Top Tote



Pelle Hinges Leather Cinch Top Tote

Isn't she pretty? This bag is an absolute Spring must have! This is no plain jane ladies, don't let the bone color fool you, with her tassel detailing, supple leather, and Gold toned hardware, she can go anywhere and hold her own, much like you!

About the Pelle Tote:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Two 20" rolled carry handles (Drop: 10")
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Invisible magnetic snap side pockets with zippered gussets
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Top drawstring with tassels

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Back slash pocket

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Structured base

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Magnetic snap top closure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Zip-across interior pocket

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2 open accessory sleeves

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Attached key fob

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Genuine leather exterior

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Full lining

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 13"W x 10"H x 5"D

My Take:

There is no detail missing in this bag! This will quickly and easily become your Spring into Summer 'go-to' bag. It has presence and an under-stated beauty, yet can handle the demands of your busy schedule and take you effortlessly from day into night.

It has a structure and style that can take you just as easily and effortlessly from the office by day to drinks at night. It's not too big or too bulky giving it incredible versatility. And in this day of multiple gadgets having both inside and outside pockets to house a cell phone, mp3 and in my case my favorite point and shoot camera too is truly helpful! My take is that 'she' (yes this bag is a she to me!) is classy without being snobby, sophisticated while not taking herself too seriously and can defintely go anywhere. And is absolutely ready for anything you throw at her. (Hey, that's sounds like ME!)

Again, I've been a loyal customer for many years, and it's the stellar service, quality merchandise and great deals that keep me coming me back for more! I have loved all the handbags I've purchased over the years both online and in-store, and one of my all time favorite finds is a leather blazer I purchased about 2 years ago. Which I have lost so much weight, that the Jacket is now huge on me. Great reason to have to go shopping soon don't you think?

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly? This is one of those times I truly wish I could pull an oprah winfrey on you and say 'you get a bag, you get a bag, you are all getting a bag!' I can't do that unfortunately, but this bag is definitely one of my Spring 'Favorite Things'. And one of you have a chance to add my new Spring Favorite Thing to your accessories wardrobe!

Special offer for readers: Free Shipping On Orders Over $75 (Enter code 6843A at checkout. Valid 3/1/11 - 3/31/11.) 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Wilsons Leather have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive the Pelle Hinges Leather Cinch Tote in Bone!

Don't you just ♥ Wilsons Leather? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Visit Wilsons Leather and link us another item you like! Do NOT Post the URL to the item reviewed or your entry will be disqualified. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, March 01, 2011 until Friday, April 01, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of DayLight Savings Time Fun share with us what you will do with your extra hour of sunlight!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @wilsonsleather Spotlight Handbag of the Month #Giveaway! ARV $200! Ends 04/01 http://tinyurl.com/4lv3pfh

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @wilsonsleather on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Wilsons Leather and tell them Ascending Butterfly Blog Sent You on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Wilsons Leather on YouTube HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Spotlight Handbag of the Month: Win Marissa Del Rosario's Prairie Tote in Kaffir Giveaway! ARV $350! Ends 01/27

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Marissa Del Rosario! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Bunny B. Congrats Bunny! Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Today's Butterfly sponsored by:

Ascending Butterfly is super happy for the return of our ongoing handbag feature! We return with a new handbag from one of our favorite designers who was featured by us in 2010, Marissa Del Rosario!

Last year we reviewed a super hot leather bag in one of my favorite colors, Red, with ahead of the trend East West Zipper detailing called the 'Somerset Hobo', you can re-visit that review HERE.

This year, Marissa is back with another hot leather bag from her 2011 collection. I had the privilege of testing this bag before it was ready for launch, and I can tell you it has become my 'reach-for-first' bag. It's a Super Soft washed grain leather and I just can't resist rubbing it every time I have it on. And apparently neither can friends and family who have all given me compliments on this bag since it's debut on my arm in December! Each time someone has complimented it they would touch it, then rub it! I have even had guys approach me when I'm out, and say 'my girlfriend would love that bag where did you get it'? If only the Universe would send me a Boyfriend so thoughtful!

Prairie Tote

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Soft washed grain leather

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Color: Kaffir

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Swivel snap hook and inside magnetic snap closure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Front slip pocket

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Handles 1" wide

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Shoulder drop 9"

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Inside has 4 slip pockets & zipper pocket

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Turquoise fabric lining

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 14" (l) x 13" (h) x 6" (w)

My Take

Pros:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The leather! It's super soft, a buttery feel leather, a leather so sumptious you'd expect a much higher price tag, it's great to get that kind of quality at such an affordable price!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Color! The Kaffir color goes great with military inspired trends, but it's not limited to it, and that's the best part! If you're anything like me and tend to put practicality first, you go for blacks or neutrals, but you will find this color is trendy yet exceptionally versatile and will go well with your wardrobe, allowing you to get multi season use out of it, and that's an incredible plus, especially in our current economy!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Drop! I began wearing this in December, with bulky sweaters, layers and a coat and I didn't have to hold this bag in my hand, I can wear it comfortably with bulky layers on my shoulders, keeping my hands free.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Size! This bag is not too big or too small and I am a daily public transportation commuter, so it has taken quite a beating and does not look it, I literally carry everything imaginable with me, lets face it, I am my mobile office, and while I love fashionable and trendy bags, they have to be able to be completely functional for me to be worth the investment. This bag fits my super picky bill. I have a lot of requirements for the 'right' bag, and I tend to hate constantly switching out, I love this bag and WANT to wear it everyday. Usually I find most bags that are fashionable, are usually way to small for my day to day needs, but this bag has really worked out perfectly for me, and trust me, that's a shining endorsement coming from me!

Cons

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - There is only one major con I have found with this bag, well OK maybe two. (1) Everyone you know will want it! And ( 2) I now want one in EVERY color, and I do mean every color. While you would think that is a plus, us 'starving writers' have very strict budgets! But I now have visions of the Prairie Tote in 'Denim' dancing in my head!

I love how Marissa's bags always seem to have one eye on the hottest trends, yet still remain extrememly practical and usable for everyday. The hardware detailing, the feet to keep it safe when you set it down, great organizational pockets for your phone, MP3 player, sunglasses and a privacy zippered pocket on the inside for essentials, the pretty lining, all the important details are there, a great variety of colors and just the right size for your essentials. I have greatly enjoyed the opportunity of presenting Marissa and her fashionable bag designs to Ascending Butterfly readers! We have re-named our handbag feature, and we are proud to name Marissa's Prairie Tote as our FIRST 'Spotlight Handbag of the Month' for 2011.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Marissa Del Rosario want you to win a Prairie Tote for yourself!  Don't you just ♥ Marissa Del Rosario? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win:  Here are the Easy 1,2,3 Steps to Winning!

(1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and

(2) MANDATORY entry- Visit our friends at Marissa Del Rosario and LINK us to another great bag that they sell that catches your eye! REMEMBER: You CANNOT post a link to the prairie tote in Kaffir, or the entry will be disqualified.You may select the prairie tote in a different color if that is your favorite! :-)

(3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning! This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes. We are  no longer sending courtesy reminders when entries do not qualify, make sure you are following publicly and your entry comment complies with giveaway win it instructions or it will be deleted.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Thursday, January 13, 2011 until Thursday, January, 27, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly and @MarissaDRosario Win the leather Prairie Tote #Giveaway! ARV $350! Ends 01/27 - http://tinyurl.com/4zyuzqv

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @MarissaDRosario on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Marissa Del Rosario and tell them Ascending Butterfly Blog Sent You on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. Sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment, rests with the sponsor.

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'Spring Into Bags' Special Feature - Win the CAMENAE 'Siren Mogano’ Leather Shoulder Bag! ARV $1,135

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Camenae! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is 'BigHappy_Buddha'. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page! Watch for the next bag in the ‘Spring Into Bags’ series to launch SOON.

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Ascending Butterfly's 'Spring Into Bags' Special Feature sponsored by:

For Spring 2010, Ascending Butterfly has been hosting a special feature called 'Spring Into Bags' we have been reviewing and giving away hot handbags from both established and emerging hand bag designers! We are now featuring the SIXTH bag in the feature! (In case you missed them, the first bag was by Elliot Lucca, it was a convertible leather crossbody in a cheery 'poppy' color, the second bag was by Linea Pelle, it was also a leather convertible clutch in a very spring 'kelly green' color, the third bag was a leather crossbody called 'Sierra' in a popular neutral color 'latte beige' from handbag designer by night, Nurse by day, Marissa Del Rosario! The Fourth Bag in the Feature was the Fleurville 'Lexie' Teal Butterfly Tote sponsored by Layla Grayce). The Fifth Bag in the Feature was the 'Belen' Bag from Helena de Natalio.)

Where Bag Meets Art

I have a long time fascination with Asian Art and (a very obvious to my readers) admiration (or is that obsession) with fine leather bags! One of the most recognized Asian symbols of ancient lore is the Dragon, whose origins are traced to China. The dragon is seen as a Protector to many Buddhists, also as a symbol of Imperial Power, Guardian of Eastern Direction (in Feng Shui, Dragons are placed in the main area of the home or office), Controller of Rain & Tempests, Guardian of the Tide Jewels, Bringer of Wealth & Fortune and also as a Magical Shape Shifter. The Dragon sounds a bit like me, "wearer of many hats"!

Imagine how surprised I was to find my two favorites merged together to form what simply has to be the perfect marriage between art and handbag! I honestly couldn't believe my eyes when I first saw the 'Dragon Nymph' bag by CAMENAE!

While the Dragon Nymph is the smallest of  Camenae's amazing bags, it is one of  their top selling bags for good reason. The Dragon is a piece of art from artist Bui Huu Hung, whose pieces sell for $3,000+. As this Dragon is drawn exclusively for CAMENAE, it is a highly valued piece of art which has been fused with Italian luxury. Mr. Hung's works are varied but center around a common theme of recollection. He believes that new events, impressions and knowledge are built upon life's historical foundations. He strives to preserve the past by blending it with present day elements so that "it does not become reduced to lifeless words without visual detail". He certainly achieved his aims with this Design.

"Dragons have long been a potent symbol of auspicious power, representing the universe, life, existence and growth."

This bag is a collectible work of art and I am floored, and honestly plain humbled to have it. I can't stop looking at it! (I have a ring that matches it perfectly, I somehow feel that this bag was designed with ME in mind!) I want it in EVERY color! There are no important details missing, from it's feet to it's unique hardware, it's beautiful tassels and striking unique interchangeable straps, this bag turns heads. It arrives in it's dust bag, and the straps are also packaged in their dust bags. It has a tan organizational Waterproof treated lining that gives you room for your cell phone, sunglasses, keys,  MP3 player and more.

I love that the Straps are interchangeable (they Lock in place with a key and are easy to attach and remove, just remember to 'unlock' it again when you are ready to swap straps!) and I love the Dragon Strap in the Metallic Bronze color as pictured above! I feel this color truly does the detail of the intricate Dragon design justice!

Buy A Bag, Change A Life

The Dragon Nymph is part of the Dragon Capsule Collection which is derived from CAMENAE Change a Life: Art + Luxury = to benefit charity. All Dragon pieces are custom designed, with the Change a Life hallmark and artists signature blind embossed on each Dragon item. CAMENAE will donate $10 for every Dragon piece sold to support the Christina Noble Children's Foundation. The Christina Noble Children's Foundation is an International Partnership of people dedicated to serving underprivileged children with the hope of helping each child maximize their life potential. Learn more about this amazing organization HERE. I have had the pleasure of presenting various companies that offer the opportunity of shopping for a cause and knowing that a portion of sales for this bag (and the other products in the dragon collection) help such an amazing cause makes me want to shout it from the rooftops! I hope you will too!

The founders have been friends for 22 years and are often mistaken for sisters, I can see why, learn more about the dynamos behind the brand HERE.

And because I wouldn't be doing my fashion duty by not sharing special information, I have a preview for you of upcoming bags that are available for pre-order, these are not ready to ship until May 31st!

CAMENAE is currently releasing it's first silhouettes in color this year. Below are links of the 2 most sought after pieces from the Colore Collezione:

Pictured Above  is The Calypso Baguette style clutch, in Azure, Coral and Halo Gold. (Can't you just picture this with your favorite little black dress, strappy dress shoes, and dazzling earrings? I say come to MAMA!)

Pictured Above is The Electra double wrap skinny belt, also in Azure, Coral and Halo Gold. (I can absolutely picture this with a crisp white shirt, indigo skinny jeans and a super cute pair of sandals this summer and the belt in the lovely coral hue shown.) Remember this item is also a pre-order that will ship May 31st. When CAMENAE does color, they mean color, vibrant and bold, eye catching and care free, I love it!

Although the Calypso clutch comes with a chain, it can be removed and used with the Electra belt.

Isn't this a stroke of genius? One bag and multiple electra belts gives you amazing versatility and a unique look!

And there is a very special reward for you for allowing me to go on and on and on about my latest obsession and fab find!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at CAMENAE would like to provide one lucky winner with the opportunity to win the 'Siren Mogano' Bag (ARV $980)! This giveaway has been made personal by CAMENAE, it is being sent to the winner with the CAMENAE Rivetto Strap (+ $290). The Siren Rivetto is an exclusive bag/strap combination bringing the ARV of this amazing prize package to $1,135.00 (Normally the Siren Mogano is sold with the strap called 'Personale' remember the straps are designed to be interchangeable, I encourage you to visit the site and see other straps that are available for purchase).

About the Bag:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Material: Leather

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 15.5 l x 6 w x 10 h inches

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Colors: Mogano (brown), Nero (Black), and Sabbia (a latte/tan)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Made in Italy

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Waterproof Treated Lining

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - zipper rings and removable tassels

But Wait, There's MORE! If you can't wait to find out if you won and want to nab this delicious bag NOW, (and who can blame you!) CAMENAE is generously offering an exclusive discount for Ascending Butterfly Readers that you will NOT find anywhere else but HERE, 50% off The Siren Bag (remember in it's original configuration, with the 'Personale' Stap, not the 'Rivetto' Strap as shown above) with use of VIP code: Siren50 (at check out)!  WOW!

Don't you just ♥ CAMENAE? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2) Like CAMENAE on Facebook (tell us what name you follow under) (3) Follow @CAMENAEbags on Twitter (tell us what name you follow under). You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com, If your email is visible in your profile, just say so, that's OK!). Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning! This giveaway is open to USA AND Canada residents who are 18 years of age or older. This is a little different from our normal, so please be sure to follow instructions CAREFULLY. See below example of entry format:

EXAMPLE: Your entry should read like this after you have followed above steps:

(1) I follow Ascending Butterfly via google friends connect as (insert your follower name here)

(2) I follow CAMENAE on Facebook (insert your follower name here)
(3) I follow CAMENAE on Twitter (insert your follower name here)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Saturday, May 22, 2010 until Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email address your entry will not be processed.)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit! If we cannot see the button we will not process this extra credit.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow me @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your Twitter ID in a comment

Tweet this:

Pls RT #WIN Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly + @CAMENAEbags 'Siren Mogano’ Leather Bag! ARV $1,135! #Giveaways - http://tinyurl.com/22k8422

*Two Tweets per person per day MAX

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pick another bag other than those discussed here that you like and post it's URL/link here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow/Like Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's Community Group (with real time chat) NOTE: We switched from NING to Spruz, if you were a member of our old group you'll need to switch for this credit to count HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe to receive Ascending Butterfly emails using our Feedburner widget on the upper right hand side of the page below the follower thumbnail pictures! (If you are already a subscriber you will still receive extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please Vote, Ascending Butterfly is a nominee for the Bloggers Choice ’10 Awards in the ‘Best Blog About Stuff’ Category - http://bloggerschoiceawards.com/ Where it reads total votes, there is a yellow box that reads 'Vote' Press there to vote, you must be logged in to see the number increase/vote registered. You can also vote directly using the button located on our home page and below:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW DAILY: Please vote for my outfit 'Yay4WkEnd' @ Macy's Fashion director (note you do not have to register to vote for me, one click daily super fast, super easy!) HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Enter another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly and earn extra credit, leave a comment letting me know which giveaway you entered. (This will be checked!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Make a purchase from CAMENAE anytime between 5/22 - 6/20 and receive 10 extra entries. (you will need to email us a copy of your invoice as proof. Yes, you can cross off method of payment information! Don't forget to take advantage of the exclusive coupon code, Siren50 if you are ordering a Siren bag!) Use our 'contact us' form to get in touch with us HERE

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NOTE: Readers have asked us to make entering the contests and giveaways, faster and easier. Your wish is our command! We have moved our 'Today's Butterfly - Featured Site(s) of the day, which is where we host our giveaways, to the upper right hand side of the page. It will be located here from now on to make entering the giveaways faster and easier. Keep the suggestions coming, remember we also have a community group page with real time chat, you can give us your comments and suggestions in REAL time, how cool is that?

NOTE 2: Twitter followers: please remember you must also follow Ascending Butterfly using Google friends connect on the upper right hand side of the page for your entries to be processed. And remember if your profile does not have an email and you don't leave your email in your entry, we will not accept your entry. Make sure your entry or your profile have your email address!

Just a helpful Reminder: How to Follow A Blog Publicly Using Google Friends Connect:

Please look to the upper right hand side, where the follower pictures are. (Note the number of followers before you start this process)

1) press the follow button - the google pop up wizard will open, this is not an ad and your pop up blocker will not block it

2) tick the option that reads 'follow this blog publicly' once that button is selected, hit follow again - it should now read 'you are now following'

3) if the follower count went up you know you did it succesfully, if your profile has a picture, that picture will be the first one on the left side. If your profile doesn't have one, it should still be searchable on the members list. (Remember, following a blog, does NOT subscribe you to receive emails, you have to subscribe separately to do that, you will not receive emails for following)

Are you getting the dreaded 'Your Entry Can't Be Processed' message when leaving an entry or comment? Before hitting enter, highlight your comment and COPY it. If you get that message after hitting enter and your comment is still there, just ignore the message and hit enter again, then you will get a screen with a captcha code, enter the captcha code, then submit and VOILA. If after you hit the submit button the first time, you get the dreaded message and the comment 'disappeared' no worries, that's why I asked you to copy it in the first step. Paste it back in and submit again. This has worked for me when comment boxes have glitched on me, and I hope it helps you too!

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products are expressly my own experiences. I was provided product to review and for the giveaway, this in no way influenced my opinion of the product.