Miami - March 19, 2007

Shih Bop

Shih Handbags

Tassles. Giant buckles. Logo overload. Handbags and Miami men have a lot in common.

But when it comes to your taste in accessories (leather and living), you’re more of an in-it-for-the-long-haul type of gal: clean, well-made, timeless.

Which is why you’ll want to make a lifelong commitment to Shih’s spring handbags. Stephanie Lin, founder of Shih (which was named after her mother and means “giving” in Chinese), oversees the creation of every handmade bag from beginning to end in her intimate L.A. studio. She makes sure that each feels as good as it looks. The result? Leather like microwaved butter, baby.

Cozy up to the Pippa tote, made with crumply soft leather in cream or brown; the subtle ’80s-style red Amelie in large, medium, or clutch size; and the Abra, a sturdy satchel with delicate gold studs guaranteed to make a bold understatement.

Which is more than we can say about Enrique the salsa instructor.

Available at Capretto Shoes, 5822 Sunset Drive, South Miami (305-661-7767). To see styles, go to shihshop.com.