French Purse Designers Lead Oversized Handbag Trend

Posted on: Sep 30

We all love a beaded evening bag or a silky clutch. Yet while these mini purses capture our hearts, they're not setting the fashion world alight. That honor goes to the more practical oversized handbags.

Paris is the fashion capital of the world, so it's little surprise to see the French are leading the way. Think the robust Louis Vuitton Speedy, the generous Yves Saint Laurent Muse, or the spacious Hermes Birkin.

But these modern it bags look tiny next to the new kids on the block. The Dior Soft bag dwarfs Italian actress Monica Bellucci in the designer's recent ad campaign. YSL didn't even release a small Muse Two, skipping straight on to medium and large. More than half of the handbags in Chanel’s winter 2008 collection are oversized shoppers and totes.

So why when cell phones are becoming smaller, when digital readers are replacing bulky books, and when Blackberries are superseding conventional organizers are our bags getting bigger?

"The big bag is sexy and mysterious," said Erotokritos, a Parisian designer embracing the oversized trend. "In an era where everything is getting smaller and more high tech, the big-bag lady looks like an urban gypsy, ready for anything, an extra pair of heels for a night out, ready for the gym or ready to catch a flight for the weekend."

And style icons on the street seem to agree.

Marketing assistant Cordelia Smith carries oversized bags loaded up with girly goodies.

"I think that it is more elegant to carry a large bag," she added, rather than "a small bag crammed with stuff."

Tightening household budgets are also a consideration for many. We all know a smaller handbag doesn’t always mean a smaller price tag!

"Personally, not having a budget that allows me to buy lots of bags, I prefer to spend in one go a large sum and buy a bag that I can carry all the time," said press assistant Emilie Audry. "It's more understandable to spend €1,000 on a bag that you can take everywhere than €600 on a bag that's pretty but into which you can barely fit your cellphone."

[Source: International Herald Tribune]
[Image Source: David Shankbone/Wikipedia Commons]

Oversized Handbags on eBay

Laptop Tote Bags | Protect Your NoteBook Computer In Luxury Style

Posted on: Sep 30

Like it or loathe it, these days we're never far from technology. Mobile phones and laptops are keeping us connected no matter where we go. Cell phones are easy to stash in our handbags, but what do we do with our computers? Simple! We buy a laptop tote bag.

Whether you're doing the daily commute or taking a business trip, laptop bags protect your PC from the elements and look fashion fabulous.

Laptop totes are available in a range of styles, sizes and fabrics to suit all tastes. Choose from affordable canvas varieties or luxurious leathers. Large laptop totes are perfect for big machines, while small ones are ideal for the latest notebook computers.

If a tote doesn't suit you, that's OK too. Laptop bags are also available in casual messenger styles or backpacks for hands-free carrying.

Buying a Laptop Tote Bag

No matter how tiny they get, laptops are still heavy to tote around. Most bags come with a single handle which is sufficient for carrying the bag a short distance. But if you have a long commute ahead, look out for handbags with longer shoulder straps. These will allow you to sling your tote across your body for a more comfortable carrying experience. If your laptop is on the heavy side, your shoulders will thank you for purchasing a bag with a wide, soft, and lined strap.

If your laptop tote will double as a workbag, make sure you invest in one with organizational features. Many laptop handbags are made for business with separate sections to hold files, accessories, and software, plus a few more pockets for your girly goodies.

Laptop totes are available in a variety of computer, department, and handbag stores. There are also some great bargains to be found on eBay, like those below!

[Image Source: Spencer Ritenour/Stock.xchng]

Laptop Tote Bags on eBay

MEN OLYMPIA TRAVEL LAPTOP ROLLING WHEELS TOTE CASE BAG MEN OLYMPIA TRAVEL LAPTOP ROLLING WHEELS TOTE CASE BAG
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Womens Pink Faux Suede Laptop Tote Bag Case BRAND NEW Womens Pink Faux Suede Laptop Tote Bag Case BRAND NEW
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DKNY Leather Tote Bag Good for Books Newspaper Laptop DKNY Leather Tote Bag Good for Books Newspaper Laptop
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Womans Turquoise Blue Faux Suede Laptop Case Bag Tote Womans Turquoise Blue Faux Suede Laptop Case Bag Tote
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Ladies Laptop Bag Case Tote NEW Pink Spring Stripe Ladies Laptop Bag Case Tote NEW Pink Spring Stripe
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Ladies Olive Green Faux Suede Laptop Bag Case Tote Ladies Olive Green Faux Suede Laptop Bag Case Tote
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WOMENS BUXTON PROFESSIONAL LAPTOP BAG SHILOH TOTE NWT WOMENS BUXTON PROFESSIONAL LAPTOP BAG SHILOH TOTE NWT
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Ladies Large 17 Royal Blue Canvas Laptop Case Bag Tote Ladies Large 17 Royal Blue Canvas Laptop Case Bag Tote
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Womens Large Black Faux Suede Laptop Bag Case Tote NEW Womens Large Black Faux Suede Laptop Bag Case Tote NEW
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Handmade Laptop Bag 100 Genuine Leather Large TOTE TAN Handmade Laptop Bag 100 Genuine Leather Large TOTE TAN
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EcoBags String Shopper Bag | Environmentally Friendly Cotton Market Tote

Posted on: Sep 30

When I was younger, I remember my grandma carrying string bags just like this to her local grocery store. Everything old is new again because EcoBags have revived these popular shoppers and given them a modern makeover.

The thick woven handles are easy to grasp and carry, no matter how much you load the shopper. And they're easy to overstuff because they expand to fit everything you need. When you're not using them they fold up to next to nothing, making them easy to stash in your shoulder bag, purse, or pocket.

These EcoBags string totes are available in a fruity range of tropical colors. Choose from willow green, coral rose, violet, blue hydrangea, and earth brown.

EcoBags are perfect for running errands and taking a trip to the markets, but they're much more than shoppers. They're so versatile they'd make a colorful beach bag, handy diaper bag or a unique everyday purse.

More Features of This EcoBags Cotton Market Tote

  • Made from natural cotton
  • Machine washable

String Shopping Bags on eBay

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Mulberry Unveils Emma Hill Spring 2009 Handbag Collection

Posted on: Sep 29

Emma Hill's first collection for Mulberry is just months away from release, and it looks like it could be one of their best yet. Hill has brought a fresh energy and vibrant colors to the spring 2009 line.

The bag generating the biggest buzz is the Jenah. With its chain detail, stylish creased leather, and minimal hardware it gives a casual sense of style to any outfit. The shoulder bag is perfect for everyday use, while the baguette shape is dainty enough for the evenings.

Another fabulous Mulberry purse for those warm spring nights is the Ava. It's fun and just a little flashy with its reptilian scales in metallic gunmetal.

Hobos are still big business, and Mulberry gets it right with the Shimmy. Its rounded slouchy shape is so casually cool, and the flat shoulder strap makes it a breeze to carry.

Mulberry knows women don't always want to sling a handbag over their shoulder, so most purses have also been created in cute clutch-sized varieties. You could carry the larger one during the day, and stash the smaller version inside for a night out with the girls!

The men haven't been forgotten either, with a range of chic man bags also slated for release.

[Source: Bag Snob]

Mulberry Handbags on eBay

Lucky Brand Mulberry Purple Suede Handbag HKRUD478 $188 Lucky Brand Mulberry Purple Suede Handbag HKRUD478 $188
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Genuine Vintage Mulberry Handbag Excellent Condition Genuine Vintage Mulberry Handbag Excellent Condition
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Mulberry Mabel handbag electric blue tea size Mulberry Mabel handbag electric blue tea size
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Calvin Klein Snakeskin Hobo | Luxury Leather Eggplant Purple Purse

Posted on: Sep 29

There are two things I love: snakeskin and the color purple. When I find a handbag that combines these two flamboyant features, it quickly wins me over. This is the case with this beautiful Calvin Klein hobo.

To be fair, this isn't real snakeskin at all. Instead it's embossed leather, but the effect is so convincing that I don't mind at all. It's also a lot easier on the wallet than the genuine python skin, which is sure to please budget conscious fashionistas.

This impressive leather is rendered in a gorgeous eggplant purple, a shade which is so mellow that it's easy to coordinate with your winter wardrobe. This cool color is offset with silver-toned hardware.

The zip top closure reveals a generous interior which is a lot larger than many hobos on the market. It's made with organization in mind. There's a place for everything! A clever zipper pocket has an open pocket behind it, making the most of the space on offer. You'll also find another open slip on the opposite wall, plus a handy cell phone pocket.

Style and substance combine in their beautiful bag from Calvin Klein!

More Features of This Calvin Klein Python Purse

  • Detailed stitching
  • An adjustable shoulder strap with a 9 to 11.5 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 13 x 7 inches

Calvin Klein Snakeskin Purses on eBay

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Juicy Couture Dog Bag | Velour Pet Carrier for Pampered Pooches

Posted on: Sep 29

You only have to look around Hollywood to see, the hottest accessory these days is a pampered pooch. You know the types: they're cute, they're cuddly, and their paws never touch the ground. If your pup is a prince or princess, you'll want to carry them in this beautiful pet carrier.

It features Juicy's popular Sugar & Spice style, with a soft pink velour finish trimmed with navy leather. The centerpiece is a large embroidered emblem reading "Sugar and Spice & Everything Juicy Couture." Classic gold hardware and playful charms complete the fun look.

The double zip closure makes it easy to get your best friend and in and out of the carrier. Large windows on the front and side are fitted with mesh inserts to offer plenty of air circulation. A pink velour cushion helps your pooch travel in comfort. It's also removable so you can easily keep it clean. But it's not all about your pup. A zippered pocket on the side is ideal for carrying your essentials.

The rolled handles fit comfortably in your palm, but they're not very practical if you need to travel a long way. That's when you want to attach the nylon shoulder strap. Just sling it over your shoulder to make carrying this dog bag a breeze!

More Features of This Juicy Couture Pet Carrier

  • Tan interior
  • Rings on top handles
  • Measures 15.5 x 8.5 x 12 inches

Juicy Couture Dog Bags on eBay

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Rebagz Make Environmentally-Friendly Handbags From Sacks and Juice Packs

Posted on: Sep 28

The latest eco-friendly bags to get the celebrity seal of approval are Rebagz, a green collection created by Half the Sky Designs. Style icons Gwen Stefani, Angelina Jolie, and Heidi Klum love these purses which turn trash into treasure. And the ladies aren't the only ones catching on. Environmentally-aware stars like Tiger Woods and Dave Matthews also been tote Rebagz messenger handbags.

No one would look twice at an old rice sack, but when it's cut into strips and woven together to create a bag it's a different matter. If you're after something a little more colorful, consider Rebagz recycled juice pack purses. They don't just look fabulous: these handbags are also water-resistant.

Rebagz is committed to making environmentally-friendly accessories that look good. New bags are regularly released featuring modern shapes, designs, and patterns.

Rebagz bags are good for the planet, and for our bank balances, with purses retailing from just $27. All handbags in the collection cost under $100, making them affordable for all fashion lovers.

[Source: The Lafayette]
[Image Source: Half the Sky Designs]

Eco-Friendly Handbags on eBay

ECO FRIENDLY ROOTOTE Shopper Tote Handbag ECO FRIENDLY ROOTOTE Shopper Tote Handbag
US $9.99   Paypal
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ECO FRIENDLY FASION FIBRE HANDBAG BLACK SHELL 1284 ECO FRIENDLY FASION FIBRE HANDBAG BLACK SHELL 1284
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Chic Black Eco Friendly Vegan Doctor Bag Handbag Purse Chic Black Eco Friendly Vegan Doctor Bag Handbag Purse
US $2.99   0 Bid Paypal
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Bitten Plaid Wristlet | Cute Tartan Clutch by Sarah Jessica Parker

Posted on: Sep 28

This wristlet from Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten collection is a stylish alternative to a traditional wallet or clutch.

I love the bold tartan print, which would add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. The gold wristlet chain brings a little bling to this simple purse.

The metallic snap closure opens to reveal an exterior which looks more like a traditional wallet than a regular wristlet. There’s a handy zippered pocket on one side, and four credit card slips on the other.

Plaid never goes out of style, and you won't either carrying this cute Bitten wristlet!

More Features of This Bitten Tartan Wristlet

  • Brown lined interior
  • Measures 9 x 4.5 inches

Bitten Sarah Jessica Parker Clutch Purses on eBay

BITTEN Black PATENT Chain WRISTLET Bag CLUTCH PURSE BITTEN Black PATENT Chain WRISTLET Bag CLUTCH PURSE
US $19.99   0 Bid Paypal
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Julia Restoin-Roitfeld Fronts Accessorize Ad Campaign | Gorgeous Bags, Stunning Model

Posted on: Sep 27

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld is the new face of British accessories chain Accessorize. The beautiful model is fronting the ads for the brand's autumn/winter collection. And doesn't she look exquisite?

But it should come as no surprise: fashion is in Julia's blood. Her mother is none other than Carine Restoin, the editor of French Vogue!

Julia is no stranger to the camera with stints for Tom Ford and Gap under her belt, but she really shines in this campaign. These gorgeous photos were styled by Russian Vogue's Simon Robbins and shot in New York's cooler-than-cool Greenwich Village.

The Accessorize ads will be shown all over the United Kingdom and Europe, but you can have a sneak peek here. In this stunning photo Julia carries Accessorize's Tweed Spotty Scarf Bag. I love how the black and white scarf and colorful pom-pom charms add interest to this fairly neutral tote.

[Source: StyleByMe.net]
[Image Source: Accessorize]

Accessorize Handbags on eBay

Accessorize Beauiful Rainbow Stripe Shoulder Bag k Accessorize Beauiful Rainbow Stripe Shoulder Bag k
US $7.47   0 Bid Paypal
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NEW ACCESSORIZE BLACK DIAMOND CLUTCH BAG JUST GORGEOUS NEW ACCESSORIZE BLACK DIAMOND CLUTCH BAG JUST GORGEOUS
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SOLD OUT ACCESSORIZE GOLD BLACK LACE LARGE BAG NEW 50s SOLD OUT ACCESSORIZE GOLD BLACK LACE LARGE BAG NEW 50s
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Anya Hindmarch Nevis Tote | Spacious and Stylish Patent Leather Luxury Bag

Posted on: Sep 27

We all know that a tote bag is a busy girl's best friend. It's doubly true for this Anya Hindmarch Nevis Tote, which offers even more space and style than we're used to.

The most exciting feature for organization lovers is all those pockets. We're used to totes only offering one main compartment, but Anya believes that isn't enough. She's added two deep pockets on the front and another long one on the back for more storage room.

The shiny black patent leather exterior is glamorous and guaranteed to attract compliments. This slick fabric is accented with matching black grosgrain trim. The signature Anya bow completes this handbag's chic look.

So that's the outside covered, but the Nevis Tote's beauty isn't just skin deep. The interior is lined with suede and made for organization. There's an open pocket, a zippered pocket, but that's not all. The pen pocket is such a clever touch, and a key fob is always a welcome feature.

With its basic black exterior and clever functionality , this Anya Hindmarch tote really is a bag for all seasons.

More Features of This Anya Hindmarch Patent Leather Purse

  • Four metal protective feet on the bag's base
  • Dual handles with a 5 inch drop
  • Measures 9.25 x 9.75 x 5 inches

Anya Hindmarch Totes on eBay

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