Longchamp’s limited edition Year of the Horse Handbag is the everyday kind of purse with a that bit of panache you’ve been search for; I knew my quest was over the moment I saw it.

2014 is of course the year of the horse in Chinese astrology and how perfect to celebrate it with Longchamp, the French luxury retailer named after the historic racetrack in Paris’ Bois de Boulogne.

The Year of the Horse bag features the house’s graceful racehorse emblem appliqué on the front, continuing to the side and back of it’s iconic Le Pliage design.

There are many reasons to the love this handbag, not the least of which is it’s easy elegance.  It’s available in black and red and both versions have both gold and silver details, the horse and rider in gold metallic material and the hardware, the horse’s eye and hooves in silver.  I love that it’s cool and warm at the same time.

Given how active my days can be, some handbags can be a little restrictive but this Le Pliage comes with a detachable shoulder strap so it can worn on the shoulder as well.  I love how the nylon is rather seasonless; it’s a bit better fit for life in San Francisco and of course life on the water.

Inside is the inscription “Longchamp celebrates the year of the horse” with the Chinese sign of the horse.  What a wonderful way to embrace this special year in a stylish way.  It’s a must for collectors.

The year of the horse and those born under it are recognized as trailblazers who are energetic, creative and sociable – perfect adjectives for my goals this year.  What a great find, this equestrian-inspired bag is as beautiful as the promise of this unique new year.