The satchel bandwagon has come and gone, but I for one don't care. I still like the structured, prim look of this particular style, and how convenient it is with handles and/or body straps. For me, satchels make casual preppy outfits look more sophisticated, more put together. My casual clothes fall under that category so satchels are no-brainer choices. :D

I first read about Cuzo leather bags some months ago at Topaz Horizon, one of my favorite blogs (hi Frances!). I learned that the products were locally made, and that the leather Cuzo uses is real. Still, the prices are very reasonable at less than P2,500 for most bags. You can understand why I had to grab my own Cuzo bag at AVA.ph, and on sale too.

The green Ann Satchel was originally P2,250 but it was 30% off so I was able to score it for only P1,500. There were other designs but all of them are sold out - except for the maroon Ann! You should get it before it goes out of stock.

I only have a limited amount of time to browse stores - online and offline - so I would rather look for my friends' recommendations than aimlessly Googling what I want to buy. I also check the blogs I trust for their recent purchases and features (like Manila Fashion Observer). It's easier that way! 

That said, I've been following Ava.ph ever since it opened. It came in at a time when everyone in Manila was coupon/discount crazy. AVA was different because it was the only one that offered luxury fashion brands like Chanel, Prada, and Burberry at a discount. I can't afford them even at the sale price, but I always watched AVA just in case something irresistable turns up!

And they do turn up. There were crazy price slashes on Melissa shoes and Aranaz bags but I often logged in too late to get the things I actually want. :(

Today AVA has evolved into a curated fashion store that offers premium hard-to-find, indie brands. There are still flash sales but those are for a limited time only; the store itself stocks up on carefully-chosen items from new, intriguing names.

I actually got a Cuzo bag recently from one of the sales - imagine, P1,500 for a leather bag, at 30% off! Such a steal. I will blog about it soon. ;) For now, I want to show you my AVA wishlist for Christmas!