So, I stumbled into a brand-new boutique in my neck of the woods and there they were…shining like a beacon, calling for me to pick them up, begging to be fondled.  I didn’t know who made the bags, I just knew I had to see them, touch them…they were amazing.  Handmade, unique, beaded/sequined/feathered and dying to be carried to a very special…something…anything.

I had heard the Mary Frances name before but never really investigated.   Now that I’ve seen them, seen the intricate detailing, the superior craftsmanship, I have to spread the word.

Mary Frances is a homegrown designer that has been making handbags from her Bay-Area home since 1990.

For nearly 18 years, Mary Frances has advanced accessory design by blending elegance with whimsy to create a unique style that is unmistakably her own. Each year Mary Frances designs five dynamic collections that blend her love of color and texture, offering legions of loyal fans an eclectic array of pieces for their wardrobes. Mary Frances Handbags are anywhere from artsy to trendy. She also offers accessories, jackets and home gift items.

I found another website, Regencies.com, an authorized retailer which seems to carry a much larger selection than the Mary Frances website.  (No, this is NOT a paid endorsement).

With cute names like “Pounce,” “Lovelorn,” and “Butterfly Kiss,” each bag has it’s own unique look; encrusted with ornate, ebullient detailing, intriguing closures and unusual shapes, they beg to be the centerpiece of your ensemble.  These are bags that demand attention.  I would say, though, that one might consider wearing a fairly subdued outfit in order to allow these to be the statement pieces they deserve to be.  They are almost more like jewelry than handbags.  In fact, these are creations that you will want to cherish and hand down to your children’s children…or give to your bridesmaids…they have the potential to be heirloom pieces, and I don’t say that lightly.

Apparently, these bags have been seen gracing the arms of A-listers all over Hollywood, and it’s no surprise.  Not for the fashion wallflower, these are bags are fit for Divas.  For the quality and craftsmanship, one would expect to pay significantly more than the actual prices – most can be had for less than $250, many less than $150.  Amazingly affordable elegance!

I’m sad to say that price tags at my UK boutique were the same…but in ££ instead of $$, which makes them exactly double the price and a bit out of my range for what I would use as an “event” bag.  But, I can’t wait to get back to the good ol’ US of A so that I can claim one or three of these unbelievably gorgeous works of art for myself.  (Hmmm…my birthday is coming up…Honey…?)

Please do take the time to visit Regencies.com and take a closer look at the various  close-up angle photos of each bag.  They are seriously stunning and can’t possibly remain this affordable for long.  If there isn’t a collector’s market yet for Mary Frances bags, there most certainly will be soon.