We were pleased to get a sneak peek at the fall 2010 collection from Bay Area handbag line Helena de Natalio, founded by former Peace Corps volunteer Helen Lubetkin after an assignment in South America prompted a love affair with the leather work she discovered there.

The latest from this local designer continues the ever-so-slightly bohemian take on classic shapes the label is known for, but updates offerings for fall with spicy new hues, edgy metallics and details such as braided straps and tassels.

You’ll find current styles at Saks Fifth Avenue and online in shops like Bluefly.com. Or peruse the line in person during the upcoming Sassy City Chicks sample sale in San Francisco on March 18.

More local designers…