Boston - September 20, 2006

Bag Attitude

Catherine Parra Bags

Okay, fine. You have issues.

Like you’re thinking seriously of quitting the late-night online shopping binges. And you’re serious about dumping that jerk excuse for a boyfriend.

About time, we say. But shouldn’t you then be taking yourself a little less seriously in a few other areas? For that, Catherine Parra can help.

On each of the Parisian designer’s functional but funky handbags hangs a piece of mischief in the form of a playful fabric “monstro.” These little nubs of material are strung onto key chains and dangle from your purse strings, smiling or scowling at everyone you pass.

Whimsical accessories are just half of it. The leather-and-fabric bags are pieced together in a puzzle of textures and come in big, small, and tote sizes, so there’s one for your everyday jeans and your once-a-week look.

It’ll even match that shirt-and-pant “uniform” you fall back on just about every other day.

You thought we weren’t going to bring that up? C’mon, get serious.

Available at Fanny and Delphine, The Shops at The Hotel Commonwealth, 522 Commonwealth Avenue (617-266-2006 or fannyanddelphine.com).