With the Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui GM introduction, we finally get a sensible solution to one of my biggest bug bears - namely buckles on handbags.

The Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui GM is the latest addition to the Suhali range.

Measuring 13 inches long by 8 inches high and 6 inches deep, this new addition is a good size, shape and quality to be a popular bag.

It has a nicely rounded shape, meaning that it will fit under the arm comfortably, carrying just about everything you'll need. (So long as you don't forsee a requirement for the kitchen sink, that is!)

Using the standard Suhali goatskin leather, this bag - as with all the bags in the Suhali range - should last you a lifetime.

Inside is the mini monogrammed interior cloth, the color matching that on the outside. Closure of the flap is via the new push close S snap lock - a marked improvement on the previous S lock style.

But the best touch to the Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui is in the shoulder straps and buckles! Yup, you read right, I actually like the buckles on this bag.

My arguement has always been that buckles as a means of securing the access intot he bag is a big mistake. For sure, they look good and are a recognised integral part of any bag. But the practicality of using buckles, especially the fiddly little buckles, has never been good.

A simple test for me has always been - if I'm running down the road and need to grab something from inside my bag whilst moving, how easy will it be to open the bag? Sensibly, undoing buckles on the move is a pain in the "Gluteus Maximus" and they don't, therefore, make a good method of securing the flap.

But the buckles on the Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui are not used for flap closure. They are what fix the shoulder straps to the bag. They're also adjustable, having a choice of three holes, giving you a degree of flexibility on getting the drop at just the right height for you!

The Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui GM currently costs $3,200 in 2007 (was $2,780.00 when launched in 2006) and is priced at the higher end of the Suhali range of bags.

But as we've pointed out elsewhere on the Suhali range descriptions - sure, it costs more now but these bags should last you beyond your shelf life and prove to be solid and durable for your kin to enjoy for many years to come.

The Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui would be an excellent investment!

The Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui PM

2007 - Update:- Recently introduced in late 2006 is the Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui PM as well - keeping the rolled shape of the GM but swapping the shoulder length straps for simple, set rolled handles which turn this into a clutch appearance.

The Louis Vuitton L'Epanoui PM retails for $2,650 (Jan 07) and measures 9.5" long, 5.5" high and 4" wide.