We’ve long had a love affair with the leather bags and bow clutches by Hoakon loves Helga, but now we’re having a summer fling with the line’s newest beach totes and bike bags.

Made from fabric and deconstructed vintage leather jackets, the bags are all handmade in Calgary. The upcycled, fully lined, textured black leather bike bag with a zipper closure and vintage belt straps for attaching to your handlebars (US$65) is the perfect cruiser bike accessory while the Ikat print beach tote (US$65, pictured) even has a pocket for your summer read.

Summer loving happens so fast.

At Hoakon loves Helga’s Etsy Shop.

Famous for its supermodels and soccer players, there’s another duo Brazil does well: shoes and handbags.

The South American city’s well-known retailer Carmen Steffens has finally graced us with its first Canadian store. We’ve got our eyes on the handcrafted wedge sandals, python flats and peep-toe pumps. But first up, the woven “Nicole Tote” ($499, pictured) that would go oh-so well with Joseph Altuzarra’s spring basket weave apron dress.

Just another pair made in fashion heaven.

Carmen Steffens, Fashion Central, 803 First St. SW, Calgary, www.carmensteffens.com

The only perk of flying coach is the price, but when it comes to a different kind of Coach, a discount is a blessing.

The highly anticipated newest addition to CrossIron Mills is the Coach Factory Outlet, where you’ll come across sad bags that need to be adopted (that’s how we like to think about it).  

See you in line.

Coach Factory Outlet at CrossIron Mills, www.crossironmills.com

New Pilot pens, check. Coiled notebooks, check. Highlighters, check.

Even if you’re not spending time in the classroom, you should never mess with back-to-school shopping traditions.

But you can always tweak.

Instead of the clunky backpack emblazoned with the university logo, splurge on the mini skirt bag ($470) by 442 McAdam. Designed by former Calgarian Sarah Shell, a Parsons grad who designed for Club Monaco and worked in buying and merchandising for Gucci, the leather bag can be worn across the chest or over the shoulders, has a rifle sling and brass hardware and, most importantly, has plenty of pockets to store your new stuff.

Who needs a boy to carry their books?

At Coco and Violet, 17-2500 Fourth St. SW, Calgary, 403-244-6234, www.cocoandviolet.com

We’re forever on the lookout for timeless, classic pieces, but that doesn’t mean we just say no to a few seasonal items.

This weekend, six Alberta designers showcase their spring collections at the Inspired show and sale. Pick up a flirty top by Edmonton’s Sabrina Butterfly Designs, a cute hat to keep your cool by Sugar Soul Studio, dangly earrings by Janet Stein, edgy automobile photographs by Salted Studio and one-of-a-kind quilted handbags by Line Designs.

Now that’s inspiring.

Inspired, 4 p.m.–9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.–5 p.m.  Saturday, Rosemont Community Centre and Hall, 2807 10th St. NW, Calgary.