Steve Madden Ruffle Satchel | Spacious Abstract Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Nov 20

I am impressed by how top-end designer this ruffled satchel from Steven Madden actually looks.

I think it is the design that makes this reasonably affordable handbag look quite so posh. The ruffles aren't just layered like bags normally do, instead being cut from the same synthetic leather in unpredictable patterns. In an abstract way, they twist and contradict each other from handles to base.

A soon as you get out the handle shoulder strap this purse does start looking a little more high street. It is, after all, cut from vaguely coordinating canvas, and is more about function that it is about looks. If you want to look classy, I suggest you only use the shoulder strap when absolutely necessary - although it is nice to have the option.

Whilst the main handles are a little short for such a stocky satchel, I do love the way it looks. The gold hardware contrasting with the golden-pewter shade works particularly well, stopping that bag from looking dull and cold. Instead, this spacious purse looks warm and very smart.

All in all this is an attractively and deceptively designed shoulder-bag with both practicality and looks in mind.

More Features of this Steve Madden Abstract Bag

  • Available in black and pewter
  • Sytheic leather
  • Brown interior with pockets
  • Optional brown canvas shoulder-strap

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Carlos Falchi for Target Satchel | Affordable Large Green Faux Snakeskin Bag

Posted on: Nov 20

Carlos Falchi has captured his signature style for less with this satchel, part of his capsule collection for department store Target.

Of course, to make this purse so affordable there are compromises made. There's not a hint of genuine python in the snakeskin collage body. The glossy finish probably gives that away, but by keeping the colors dark the design doesn't look quite as tacky as it could have. The combination of black, forest green, and charcoal gray PVC is striking and ideal for winter weather. And let's not forget, while real leather shows stains quickly PVC simply wipes clean.

The interior has a much lighter look with its colorful fabric lining. I love the way the Target logo is subtly incorporated into the whimsical printed polyester. The generous space is organized better than most bags in this price bracket, with a cell phone slip, zip pocket, a sunglasses pouch and a key ring holder. You'll also find another zippered pocket on the outside of the bag, just in case you were running out of storage options!

The shape isn't very inspired and the fabrics not very luxurious, but this satchel definitely has the Carlos Falchi stamp. And for just $50, it's an affordable alternative to the designer's high-end accessories.

More Features of This Carlos Falchi for Target Bag

  • Zip top closure
  • A single shoulder strap
  • Measures 14 x 4 x 15 inches

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Burberry’s Future Focuses on Handbags and Shoes

Posted on: Nov 20

Burberry plans to shift its focus to handbags and shoes in the face of the financial crisis.

The British brand reported lower pre-tax profits this year, mainly due to falling apparel sales. However, there is a silver lining, with profits up for leather goods, casual handbags, and shoes.

"One of the highlights is that handbags represent half of the non-apparel business. We can now say we have two solid backbone businesses - handbags and outerwear," chief executive of Burberry Angela Ahrendts told the Telegraph.

While I'm partial to a Burberry trenchcoat, I don't mind the British label's new direction one bit. Hopefully this will lead to a little more innovation from the Burberry brand, which can only be a good thing. I've seen potential in styles like the Lizzie, but with more focus on handbag design perhaps we can see some accessories that are even more fashion forward.

[Source: The Secret Sales Blog]
[Image Source: Colros/Flickr]

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Calvin Klein Metallic Pleats Hobo | Mini Hematite Leather Purse

Posted on: Nov 20

This cute hobo from Calvin Klein is more uptown glamour girl than flower power princess, thanks to its sexy metallic shine.

The genuine leather gives the Metallic Pleats hobo a little slouch, but it's not as pronounced as many bags of this type. The stitched pleats create extra structure and style, which makes this purse a great option for day-to-night wear.

At least, it is if you know how to travel light. It is called a mini hobo after all! The slender profile really limits storage space, so beware if you own a chunky wallet or like to have a fat novel on hand. Another practical limitation is the strap, which is just that fraction too short for comfortable over-the-shoulder carrying.

This dark hematite shade is my favorite. It's a little less glitzy and more reserved option than the bold silver version. Of course, many bagistas love that light bright look, so it’s nice to see Calvin Klein offering both metallic options.

More Features of This Calvin Klein Hematite Hobo

  • Zip top closure
  • Satin lined interior
  • A single shoulder strap with a 5 inch drop
  • Measures 7.5 x 12 x 3 inches
  • Made in China

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Chanel Creates Limited Edition 2.55 Handbag for Boutique Opening in Melbourne

Posted on: Nov 19

Among its architectural masterpieces and other urban attractions, Melbourne, Australia also boasts the largest shopping center in the Southern Hemisphere. Chadstone, or rather "Chaddy" as it is sometimes referred to by locals, is home to a various collection of shops that ranges from Target to Tiffany's.

The luxury fashion precinct of Chadstone is actually a new addition, though. The elegant boutique section includes Burberry, Gucci, Coach, Chanel, and more with other major labels rumored to move in soon.

Chanel celebrated the opening by releasing an exclusive 2.55 quilted lambskin bag, which contains a special plaque inside to commemorate the launch.

“It was created by Karl Lagerfeld exclusively for the launch of our new boutique at Chadstone, which opened on Wednesday,” Susie Stenmark from Chanel Australia tells us.

You'll have to be in Australia to get your hands on one, though. This limited edition handbag is only available at the label's store at Chadstone.

[Source: Sassy Bella]

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Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tate | Sturdy Tote Bag with Logo Stitching

Posted on: Nov 19

I'm fairly certain that the words "pretty" and "nylon" don't go together all that often when it comes to high fashion, but evidently Marc Jacobs is attempting to change that with the Pretty Nylon Tate collection from his trendy designer line Marc by Marc Jacobs.

It's by no means the first time a designer brand has utilized nylon for a handbag. Even Kate Spade has gotten in on the action with her Coney Island Stevie Satchel. This use of the sturdy material on the Tate, however, is not particularly compelling to me despite its popular label.

The Pretty Nylon Tate is indeed made from durable, easy-to-take-care of nylon and could be called cute, in my opinion; but I'm just not completely sold on the pretty part. It's certainly not unattractive, but it's no Loopy Bow Pouchette or other feminine Marc by Marc Jacobs design.

On the other hand, I like the unique logo topstitching that covers the tote but doesn't stand out too much. It's just enough to add a little something to the simple design. The knotted handle rings are a nice touch as well. In addition to the practical material, the Pretty Nylon Tate has convenient double side pockets on the exterior as well as a very roomy lined interior for carrying around tons of stuff.

More Features of the Pretty Nylon Tate

  • Measures 21.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches
  • Magnetic closure
  • Signature logo topstitching

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Blake Lively Won’t Front Victoria Beckham Ad Campaign

Posted on: Nov 19

They might be bosom buddies, but Blake Lively won't model for Victoria Beckham's new fashion line. Victoria's spokesperson told Vogue.com he's unsure what prompted the rumor, but that it's definitely not true.

"I don’t know where this one has come from - other than from Blake being a fan of the Victoria Beckham collection," he said. "She is not Victoria's 'muse' and there is no 'face of' the advertising campaign."

The Gossip Girl starlet met the former Spice Girl during New York Fashion Week. She's been spotted wearing pieces from Victoria's collections both on and off screen, while Victoria just landed herself a plum role on Blake's drama series. The whispers of Blake's starring turn in the marketing campaign seemed such a natural fit considering how much their paths have crossed lately, but I guess some things aren't meant to be. Perhaps Victoria's people should reconsider though. Surely having Blake's endorsement would help boost the sales of Mrs. Beckham's brand!

[Source: Style By Me]
[Image Source: Kristin dos Santos/Wikipedia Commons]

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Liz Claiborne Crocodile Wristlet | Traditional Vintage-Style Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

This Liz Claiborne wristlet brings posh and sophisticated class to an unusual shape.

Crocodile print, with its spacious pattern, is generally saved for bigger purses and vintage bags. To see it being used surprisingly effectively for a little clutch is a great change.

The styling of this wristlet is very vintage. Whilst wrist straps weren't common back then, everything else is so retro: the big gold buckle, the glossy patent leather. It is both evening wear and smart office wear, and brilliantly versatile.

I have to say that personally I am not convinced by the alternate bag color, branded "matte gold". Rather than being glamorous and mature, this color actually looks more murky dull brown. Not nice! In black it looks great though!

Whilst the looks of this bag are expensive, the materials aren't. And understandably so; you are only paying $40 for this, after all. With this in mind, however, and especially considering the thinness of the handle, I wouldn't hold out for this vintage clutch to last for many seasons. It is even less likely to last with all the wear it may just get!

More Features of this Liz Claiborne Traditional Wristlet

  • Available in gold or black
  • Patent leather exterior
  • Gray interior
  • Convertible strap

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Moschino Vernice Luce Tote | Luxury Designer Patent Shoulder Bga

Posted on: Nov 19

When you can get $4k off a bag in a sale, and it can still cost over $3k, you know that you have a really expensive bag. No surprise then that this sophisticated, yet understated, patent purse is from handbag icon, Moschino.

If you are a designer handbag addict who loves having a good name and reputation on her arm, then Moschino may well be the most dreamworthy name on your lips. Owning a bag like this is narrowed to only a few people with limited production lines, so you know that you have that exclusivity and are unlikely to bump into anyone wearing the same one.

The Vernice Luce shoulder bag is a great and smart day-to-day bag, perfect for office work as well as carrying folders and business plans. Equally, the patent leather dresses it up for nightfall, as does the cute heart clasp. You also pay for luxury, and this unusual shade will allow you to stand out from the crowd with the rich glossy color.

Of course, all these upsides are very well and good, but nothing other than the name is going to make a bag this expensive. Sure the leather is gorgeous and the satchel-esque doctors bag shape divine, but you could find this in another cheaper designer brand. This is a status symbol, even if the handles are a little too short, and as such should be treated accordingly!

More Features of this Luxury Moschino Shoulder Bag

  • Duel handles with gathered attachment
  • Heart twist lock clasp
  • Patent leather
  • Compartment in the interior

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Burberry Lizzie Handbag | Nappa Leather Convertible Studded Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

Burberry is one of those labels I love to hate. I get tired of the brand's iconic plaid purses, but when it steps out of the box the designs tend to fall flat. But Burberry seems to have gotten it right with the Lizzie. And there's not a hint of tartan in sight!

Instead the Lizzie features those on trend studs we're seeing so much of lately. The purse is virtually covered in them, but by keeping the metal small Burberry ensures the hardware doesn't get overwhelming. Plain diagonal leather strips break up the design, and are mirrored in the V-shaped pleats in the center of the purse.

The studs may be modern, but the size isn't. The Lizzie bucks the contemporary taste for oversized bags, and I think it works. Those studs may have overwhelmed on a larger canvas after all. Instead we get a purse which is large enough for carrying everyday essentials but doesn't weigh us down.

With the strap, the Lizzie is a cute daytime bag. But remove it and you've got one sexy little clutch for your next cocktail party. That day to night versatility makes the epic $2150 price a little easier to swallow.

More Features of This Burberry Studded Shoulder Purse

  • A zip top closure
  • Fabric lined interior
  • A zippered pocket and slip pocket inside
  • A removable 18 inch handle with an 8 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 1 x 5 inches
  • Made in Italy

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