Be&D Creator To Launch Roccatella Handbags on QVC

Steve Dumain, creative director of luxury handbag line, Be & D, never really wanted to do a secondary line - and he still isn't into doing it. But he is launching a whole new, lower-priced (!) brand altogether called Roccatella. Named after and inspired by his "modernly chic" 98-year-old grandmother, Dumain's newest venture will land exclusively on QVC this Thursday at 7pm. "Selling on QVC is such a nice opportunity to reach a different woman," Dumain tells StyleList. "This line is for a modern, chic woman who wants the feeling of a particular trend, but without too much of that trend." And, while he does see this customer as a more mature woman, it's far from "old lady." For the launch, QVC will offer nine different bag styles priced from $200 to $300 including satchels, totes and hobos in a variety of colors - black, metallic pearl, gray, and army green to name a few. Each bag is made of super soft, but extremely durable calfskin, which Dumain personally sought out on a recent trip to Italy. "I've done my research and this is the absolute best leather you will find at this price point," Dumain stressed. "And, they are all great everyday bags, meant to be carried day to night." Dumain said that while none these bags retail for more than $300, he didn't sacrifice the details that go into these bags. You may not find the massive amounts of construction seen in a Be & D bag, which retail from $800 to $1,300, Roccatella bags all have a great deal of value - zippered or flap front pockets, gold tone or nickel hardware, interior pocket mirrors, and key leashes. And, if you miss the QVC offering, no worries - Roccatella bags will be opening up to other retailers for spring 2011. In related news, check out our favorite fall 2010 handbag trends.