BagBunch - Bags, Handbags & Purses » Balenciaga http://bagbunch.com designer handbags & purses Fri, 25 May 2012 07:08:35 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 Balenciaga Two-Tone Leather Pouch | Simple Red & Black Purse http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-two-tone-leather-pouch-simple-red-black-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-two-tone-leather-pouch-simple-red-black-purse/#comments Sat, 07 Apr 2012 08:05:26 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=53752 Balenciaga Two-Tone Leather PouchFew things irk me more than fashion houses that stop trying. So I felt my heart sink as I spied this two-tone leather pouch from Balenciaga.

There's often a fine line between minimalist and boring, and Balenciaga's crossed it here. Everything is so basic, from the ordinary rectangular shape to the two-toned design. This is colorblocking by numbers, with little innovation or personality.

The story doesn't get any better when we peek inside. There's no lining at all. A small bag made of leather doesn't really need this feature of course, but I feel like we should be getting something for our money. Balenciaga tries to make amends with the interior open pocket, but it does little to impress me. If we fill it with anything more than receipts the pouch will probably develop unsightly lumps and bumps.

I wouldn't hesitate to spend $345 on a beautiful clutch purse, but I don't feel Balenciaga's done enough work for our dollar. It's used high quality materials as it always does, but it hasn't done a lot with them. For that price I expect to feel pampered, but here I just can't shake the feeling Balenciaga's put in the bare minimum.

More Features of This Balenciaga Basic Leather Pouch

  • Silver-toned zip closure with gold-toned metal pull
  • Measures 9.75 x 7 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-two-tone-leather-pouch-simple-red-black-purse/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Floral Papier Leather Tote | Rose Printed Calfskin Handbag http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-floral-papier-leather-tote-rose-printed-calfskin-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-floral-papier-leather-tote-rose-printed-calfskin-handbag/#comments Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:13:17 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=53452 Balenciaga Papier Leather ToteBalenciaga embraces its feminine side with this Floral Papier Leather Tote.

It's very unusual to see Balenciaga releasing a bag so girly. Ordinarily the label celebrates biker chic with dark leathers and chunky hardware. Its favorite leather is still there, but with all those pink roses covering it’s barely recognizable! There's a little hardware too, but it’s pared back to create a delicate, feminine finish.

The Floral Papier Leather Tote is roomy, but it's lacking the functional features such a large space really needs. There's only one interior pocket and another on the outside. It's a start, but not enough to keep such a large space organized. And without a closure on the top, the pockets are the only secure places for our precious cargo. The base isn't flat either, so items are likely to spill once it's set down. The straps are also disappointing. While they're long enough for easy carrying, such skinny handles will dig into our skin when the tote is full.

Frankly I think we deserve better for our $1725. That's a lot to spend on a bag whose beauty is only skin deep.

More Features of This Balenciaga Rose Tote

  • Aged brass hardware
  • Removable handing leather-frame hand mirror
  • Measures 12.5 x 15.5 x 6 inches
  • Made in Italy

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-floral-papier-leather-tote-rose-printed-calfskin-handbag/feed/ 0 Thursday Friday Release Balenciaga Totes | New Moto Bags Tempt Lawsuit http://bagbunch.com/thursday-friday-release-balenciaga-totes-new-moto-bags-tempt-lawsuit/ http://bagbunch.com/thursday-friday-release-balenciaga-totes-new-moto-bags-tempt-lawsuit/#comments Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:43:41 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=52001 Thursday Friday Moto Totes

Months have gone by since the release of Thursday Friday's Chanel style Together Totes, and still there's no sign of a lawsuit. It seems that's made the company a bit bolder, because now it's created a new Together Tote range emblazoned with the image of a Balenciaga bag.

The new Moto collection includes small pouches called Here Bags, mid-sized Together Totes, and the large Super Together handbags. Each one features the iconic image of Balenciaga's Moto bag against a natural canvas background. A range of colors are available, with prices starting at $35 and topping $95. That makes them a great deal cheaper than the genuine articles!

I fully expected Chanel to sue Thursday Friday over the 2.55 Flap Bag style totes, just as Hermes did when the label released bags bearing the image of the Birkin. However, perhaps the budget fashion house is getting smarter. The Chanel style tote didn't feature the interlocking C clasp or the famed fashion house's logo, so perhaps it stopped just short of truly infringing copyright. In the same way the new Moto totes don't have any Balenciaga branding, although the hardware and styling is pretty unmistakable.

Do you expect Balenciaga to sue over Thursday Friday's latest It Bag illustrated totes?

[Source: The Purse Blog]

Thursday Friday Totes on eBay

]]> http://bagbunch.com/thursday-friday-release-balenciaga-totes-new-moto-bags-tempt-lawsuit/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Edition Ottoman Dupionne Tote | Two-Toned Minimalist Red Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-edition-ottoman-dupionne-tote-two-toned-minimalist-red-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-edition-ottoman-dupionne-tote-two-toned-minimalist-red-leather-handbag/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:55:30 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=50720 Balenciaga Edition Ottoman Dupionne ToteBalenciaga's ditched its signature hardware for a much sleeker, chicer look with this Edition Ottoman Dupionne tote.

Its name is a bit of a mouthful, but its design is much less complicated. Its curved body and round cut-out handles give it a fun, retro feel. The warm glossy red leather is gently contrasted with a much cooler, matte red on the handle. The combination of colors is unusual, so it probably won't suit everyone, but I appreciate its uniqueness.

The Edition Ottoman Dupionne is generously sized, so it should hold everything you need on a day out and then some. However if you need more space you can simply expand it by opening the snap fastening on the side.

It's tempting to make use of all that space, but the striking handle doesn't really lend itself to that. Cut-outs like this are always awkward to manage, but even moreso when there's some weight underneath it. It's also disappointing that such a large bag has just a single interior pocket. So if it's practicality you're after, this tote probably isn't worth its significant $1550 price tag. However if you're prepared to struggle a bit for style, this tote makes a compelling case.

More Features of This Balenciaga Retro Tote

  • Pale gold-toned hardware
  • Graphic print fabric lining
  • Measures 15 x 17.75 x 5 inches
  • Made in Italy

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-edition-ottoman-dupionne-tote-two-toned-minimalist-red-leather-handbag/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Carreaux Pochette | Versatile Black Woven Leather Purse http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-carreaux-pochette-versatile-black-woven-leather-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-carreaux-pochette-versatile-black-woven-leather-purse/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:14:03 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=50383 Balenciaga Carreaux PochetteBalenciaga's never been one of my favorite fashion houses. The familiar hardware and styling of its iconic City, Work, and Weekender bags never really grabbed me, and it seemed the label was resting on its laurels. But then I met the Carreaux, and all my reservations melted away.

Balenciaga has avoided the fussy styling that usually plagues pochettes and opted for something much sleeker and more refined. The wide woven finish is more casual than an intricate wicker finish would have been, but the high quality leather ensures it doesn't feel sloppy. Black might not be a revolutionary choice but it is a versatile one which ensures the Carreaux will look just as good during the day as it does at night.

The Carreaux is sizable but slender, so you may struggle to hold everything you deem to be essential during the day. If you enjoy traveling light though you'll enjoy the way this clutch works with any outfit.

And well it should for the money. The $1295 price tag is hefty, and probably too high. But if you can make it part of your everyday wardrobe, this Balenciaga beauty might just be worth the splurge.

More Features of This Balenciaga Woven Pochette

  • Magnetic flap
  • Fabric lined interior
  • An interior slip pocket
  • Measures 6 x 14 x 1.5 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-carreaux-pochette-versatile-black-woven-leather-purse/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Papier A5 Tote | Classic Brown Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-papier-a5-tote-classic-brown-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-papier-a5-tote-classic-brown-leather-handbag/#comments Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:17 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=47637 Balenciaga Papier A5 ToteIts name makes it sound like a paper bag, but Balenciaga's Papier A5 tote is a much more luxurious creature.

The Papier A5 has a much more uptown feel than many of Balenciaga's bags. The label's typical hardware heavy approach is pared back a bit, and that more minimalist design allows the brown calfskin to shine. It's still unmistakably a Balenciaga bag though; the decorative studs and tassels see to that. But it's a much more conservative interpretation of the label's classic style, and thus a more versatile handbag.

There are some really nice features inside, including the leather bound cosmetics mirror and removable base liner. I also really appreciate all the space we're given, and the generously sized patch pockets. But the lack of lining is really disappointing at this price point, as is the lack of closure.

I like the Papier A5 a lot, but its omissions are just a bit glaring for me to ever consider spending $1445 on it. Luxury touches are all well and good, but they shouldn't come at the expense of the basics.

More Features of This Balenciaga Leather Tote

  • Small zip pocket on front
  • Dual handles with a 5 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 11 x 5.25 inches
  • Made in Italy

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-papier-a5-tote-classic-brown-leather-handbag/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Tube Tote | Simple Blush Pink Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-tube-tote-simple-blush-pink-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-tube-tote-simple-blush-pink-leather-handbag/#comments Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:44:51 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=43177 Balenciaga Tube ToteBalenciaga pares back its usual motorcycle aesthetic to create something much more elegant with this Tube Tote.

This is a real departure for the brand, something that's much cleaner and more reserved than its usual offerings. Ordinarily Balenciaga is a bit heavy-handed with its hardware, but here we only see metal on the top closure and front zippered pocket. The lack of metal works with the gentle blush pink color to create a tote that's soft and feminine, without being sugary. I've never seen pink look quite as elegant as this. It's a shade that could work as easily in the office as it would after quitting time.

The Tube tote is just as luxurious inside as it is on the exterior. It's enormous and lined with suede for that extra dose of opulence. A leather framed hand mirror is another unexpected and welcome touch. A zippered pocket would have come in handy, but with two open pouches inside and that zippered pocket on the front I'm not about to gripe about its absence. The handles are a bit shorter than I'd like, but there's a detachable long strap on hand for comfortable over-the-shoulder wear.

Balenciaga fans may find the Tube Tote a bit buttoned up for their tastes, but I appreciate the label exploring its more conservative side.

More Features of This Balenciaga Leather Tote

  • Metal toned hardware
  • Dual handles with a 6 inch drop
  • A 36.6 inch detachable shoulder strap
  • Measures 16 x 12 x 6 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-tube-tote-simple-blush-pink-leather-handbag/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Alphabet Shoulder Bag | Black Suede Colored Lettering Handbag http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-alphabet-shoulder-bag-black-suede-colored-lettering-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-alphabet-shoulder-bag-black-suede-colored-lettering-handbag/#comments Mon, 06 Dec 2010 22:05:54 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=37453 Balenciaga Alphabet BagYou know what they say about being careful what you wish for. After bemoaning so many samey bags from Balenciaga, I should be thrilled the label's stepped out of the box with this Alphabet Bag. Instead I'm longing for its old creative vision.

This is a real departure for the brand which typically delivers casual cool urban accessories. It's colorful and whimsical, and also kind of confusing. Multicolored alphabet letters pop against their black suede background. Red leather extends down from the handles to create a thick triangle over the top of the ransom note style cut outs. I suppose it's intended to look modern and edgy, but I can't help thinking I could have knocked this up with a plain black tote and some glue.

It seems Balenciaga has focused all its attention on that busy exterior, because inside this shoulder bag is sorely lacking. There's space to spare, but with only a single zip pocket clutter is bound to build up. The leather framed hand mirror is a nice touch, but I'd give it up for a simple closure. The security of my cargo is much more important to me than reapplying my lipstick.

Strip away the busy lettering and this is a very simple shoulder bag, so I'm offended that Balenciaga has priced it at more than $1700. Offended, but not entirely surprised.

More Features of This Balenciaga Black Suede Shoulder Bag

  • Silver toned lining
  • Dual top handles with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 17 x 15 x 10 inches
  • Made in Italy

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-alphabet-shoulder-bag-black-suede-colored-lettering-handbag/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Giant Chic Box Bag | Small Modern Fuchsia Lambskin Purse http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-giant-chic-box-bag-small-modern-fuchsia-lambskin-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-giant-chic-box-bag-small-modern-fuchsia-lambskin-purse/#comments Tue, 10 Aug 2010 06:05:55 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=31462 Balenciaga provides an antidote to the fussy feminine box clutches we typically see with the Giant Chic.

Yes, it is a rather garish shade of pink, but this purse avoids feeling sugary by keeping the details edgy and modern. The distressed sawn-off pyramid studs bring some new style to the popular hardware. They complement the silver buckles and front zippered pocket, creating a look which, save for that bright pink hue, is happily unisex.

If you can't embrace the shocking shade of pink, don't worry. For a more androgynous look you can snag this purse in pearl gray, dark green, or a deep shade of violet. They're more interesting shades than the traditional black and brown most brands offer, but they're neutral enough that we don't miss the more classic options.

The hues are designed to showcase the sumptuously soft lambskin, which is used for both the body and the unusual cutout shoulder strap. This handle is fully adjustable to help you find the most comfortable fit.

Despite its gargantuan name, the Giant Chic isn't a large purse. However, it packs a practical punch despite its petite stature, with hardy canvas lining, a zippered pocket, and a detachable leather bound mirror all tucked away inside.

For nearly $1000 Balenciaga doesn't give us a lot of bag for our dollar, but it does deliver a lot of style.

More Features of This Balenciaga Lambskin Box Clutch

  • Double zip top closures
  • An adjustable 35-29 inch shoulder strap with a 15.5 -13 inch drop
  • Measures 8.5 x 3.5 x 3.75 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-giant-chic-box-bag-small-modern-fuchsia-lambskin-purse/feed/ 0 Balenciaga Releases Limited Edition Motorcycle Bags | Buy First at Barneys New York http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-releases-limited-edition-motorcycle-bags-buy-first-at-barneys-new-york/ http://bagbunch.com/balenciaga-releases-limited-edition-motorcycle-bags-buy-first-at-barneys-new-york/#comments Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:05:22 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=30947 Balenciaga has released its limited edition Motorcycle bag to honor the 10th anniversary of the iconic design. We saw the label release six new bags through Neiman Marcus in May, and now there's a new "First" bag available through Barneys New York.

This beautiful bag is crafted from lizard-inspired black stamped leather. It features signature Balenciaga brass hardware and a plaque commemorating its anniversary status. Just like the Neiman Marcus bags, it also features a fun leopard print lining. I really prefer this flirty patterned fabric to the boring black linings Balenciaga typically delivers. They're almost enough reason to indulge in these brand new bags!

It's hard to believe that ten years have gone by since Nicolas Ghesquiere released the first of these now legendary fringed handbags. I'm really enjoying these modern reinventions though. If you've fallen for this Balenciaga First Motorcycle bag you can get it at Barneys New York stores for $1245. I can't wait to see what will come next!

[Source: San Francisco Chronicle]

Balenciaga Motorcycle Bags on eBay

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