UPDATE: This post has been updated on June 13, 2010. Scroll down to see the new add.
For some reason I always tend to prefer Marc Jacobs’ diffusion line Marc by Marc Jacobs over his pricey luxury label. MJ (Marc Jacobs not Michael Jackson) is an eccentric designer and often times his designs will NOT translate well into real world fashion. That’s completely OK with me though and I still respect him for constantly thinking outside the box trying to break the boundaries of fashion. However, as far as my personal closet is concerned I rather turn to Marc by Marc Jacobs. Not only because it appeals more to me, but also because I like the relation between price and quality. In terms of high fashion diffusion brands M by MJ is definitely leading the pack. Take a look at his Classic Q Hillier Hobo and you’ll know what I’m talking about. Classic design, well constructed & far away from those horrendous hefty price tags of the so-called “It” bags (Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci and the likes I am talking to YOU!).

Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier Hobo
($398, Zappos)
P.S.: Also available at NORDSTROM
& Shopbop
.
High Fashion 4937 Hobo
UPDATE (06/13/2010): This hobo by High Fashion isn’t what I’d call a steal, but it will still save you about $150 compared to the real M by MJ bag. Plus, it’s also available in the most gorgeous nude and red color! ♥ ♥ ♥

High Fashion 4937 Hobo
($238, Endless)
Nila Anthony “Bianca” Kisslock Hobo
HOT DEAL: Use coupon code “SPRING2010” to receive 15% OFF your order!
Now I understand not everyone can or is willing to lay down almost $400 for a bag. I probably fall into this category myself since you may have noticed that I’m all about shoes. Luckily for us shoe aficionados we have Nila Anthony to lend us a hand, so we can keep our cash to spend it on shoes, but still not have to toss our stuff into paper bags. Her “Bianca” hobo is eerily similar looking to the Classic Q Hillier hobo, don’t you agree? It does seem to miss the detachable crossbody strap which I find a bit sad, but apart from that I totally dig this designer inspired bag.

Nila Anthony “Bianca” Kisslock Hobo
($44.95, Handbag Heaven)
ASOS Lock Detail Slouch Bag
Seeing this second bag by ASOS I’m starting to think that I might’ve actually missed the Real Deal bag because the ASOS version looks a lot like the Nila Anthony hobo. Anyway, this bag is also a great affordable option if you can’t afford the M by MJ original. Not available in black, but the mink color does look good as well, doesn’t it?

ASOS Lock Detail Slouch Bag
($54.11, ASOS)