this only comes around a few times a year, so it’s quite an exciting happening (you know, unlike certain retailers who have perpetual 20% off codes floating around, and inflate their prices accordingly….cough). today through thursday only, at shopbop.com, you’ll save $25 on $150, $50 on $250, $100 on $500, and $150 on $750 orders, with code TAXBREAKO8.

sure, i hate those codes that try to trick you into spending more, but hey, everyone’s got to make a living. i’m pretty sure they’re trying to swipe that tax refund you’re hopefully getting, you know, before you wise up and put it into an orange account or something.

so, the real question: how to spend all of this extra cash?? well, if it were me (sadly, the self-employed never get those fabulous refunds), i’d shell out for one of these gorgeous handbags by martine sitbon. i’ve been dying to tell you about these for months, but now’s the perfect time.

sitbon has been an icon of french design for decades, but is finally hitting our shores, and what a smash hit it is. the leather on these bags looks silky soft, light, and slouchy. and the styling has that perfect european “effortless chic” thing down to a T.

my top pick is her gorgeous pleated tote (above, $427). i’m in love with the soft, ladylike pleats matched with the big, bold tote style. the combination makes this the mega-bag you can tote without feeling like you’re schlepping your life around on your shoulder. and that pale peachy-pink color is just the thing for summer – light and fun, but not too girly.

or, if you’re in the market for a clutch, don’t miss this quilted foldover version ($249). the style is perfect for toting all of your daily essentials while still keeping your look perfectly polished.

if the bags aren’t ringing your bell, never fear…i have a hunch you’ll find something to spend that lovely tax refund on.

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