Vivienne Westwood Handbags

As the queen of provocative - designer Vivienne Westwood is best known for her edgy bondage gear, combat boots, slashed shirts held together with safety pins and provoking 'God Save The Queen' slogan T-shirts.

Westwood loves controversy. From her early days as clothing designer for the Sex Pistols, to her shocking twirl for the cameras at Buckingham Palace when she revealed her absence of knickers, Westwood is the most aggressive advocate of her daring design philosophy.

Born in the Peak District of Tintwistle, England in 1941, Westwood's career in fashion did not take off until she met Malcolm McLaren; then manager of the punk band the Sex Pistols. Westwood gained kudos producing the Pistols 'rotting attire' and later opened the infamous Sex Boutique in London, fueling punk fashion in the UK.

With almost 30 years in the fashion industry, Vivienne Westwood's designs have introduced a unique raw edginess to haute couture - think romance with a heavy metal feel. Vivienne Westwood handbags are often featured in deep burgundies, hot pinks and shades of blood red, or trimmed with lace and vintage accents, showcasing cross or religious icons or shiny patent leather.

Vivienne Westwood handbags almost always feature her trademark logo - a Latin inspired cross featured over an orbital planet. The following are a few of my favorite Vivienne Westwood handbags:

Vivienne Westwood Suede Shoulder Bag - in deep burgundy was created from a melding of luxurious suede and chamois leather. It features the signature VW Latin cross logo. It has a matching burgundy leather strap and antique clasp closure, from $390 to $650 online.

Vivienne Westwood Chinese Logo Handbag - doesn't conform to any traditions. Constructed of rayon, silk and leather, this dark brown messenger-style bag is trimmed in black leather and features a uniquely vivid orange Chinese logo, for $470 online.

Vivienne Westwood Big Button Handbag - from her latest collection Fall/Winter 2004/2005 collection, is a unique take on the traditional half-moon style bag. Made of runched satin fuchsia with a gathered stiff round handles and an embossed Vivienne Westwood amulet - for approximately $220 online.