BagBunch - Bags, Handbags & Purses » Big Buddha http://bagbunch.com designer handbags & purses Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:28:44 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 Big Buddha’s New Boutique Bags | Affordable Diffusion Purse Line http://bagbunch.com/big-buddhas-new-boutique-bags-affordable-diffusion-purse-line/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddhas-new-boutique-bags-affordable-diffusion-purse-line/#comments Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:29:46 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=51710 Buddha Boutique MinaudieresBig Buddha is expanding its accessories range with the launch of a new diffusion collection called Buddha Boutique.

Buddha Boutique looks to reward its loyal customers who've seen the original Big Buddha grow to become one of the largest affordable fashion labels in America. It looks to "show something different than what's in the department stores under the Big Buddha name," explained company president Jeremy Bassan. However he assures those dedicated supporters that the new range retains Big Buddha's sensibility.

"Something different" sounds like a pretty good way to describe the Buddha Boutique bags as they reportedly feature neon parachute quilting, Aztec prints and a range of shapes from small minaudieres to large tote bags.

I particularly like the minaudieres pictured. This style of purse is so often dripping in gemstones and reserved for after five wear, so it's refreshing to see some that are a bit more accessible and versatile. The red, pink, and orange version is perfect for the upcoming warm weather, but I can imagine wearing the blue toned one all year round.

The new line's name sounds high end, but the Buddha Boutiques are actually a little cheaper than their stable mates. All items will be priced under the magic $100 mark.

[Source: Accessories Magazine]

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddhas-new-boutique-bags-affordable-diffusion-purse-line/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Chloe Satchel | Affordable Woven Zigzag Pattern Carry-All Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-chloe-satchel-affordable-woven-zigzag-pattern-carry-all-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-chloe-satchel-affordable-woven-zigzag-pattern-carry-all-handbag/#comments Sat, 03 Dec 2011 08:39:55 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=50781 Big Buddha Chloe SatchelBig Buddha's created a stylish handbag for the season with this Chloe satchel.

This is one of those special bags that appears much richer than it really is. The luxurious look comes from the zigzag weave, which elegantly dresses up the purse's synthetic body. The stitches cleverly hide the cheap material underneath. From a distance they also look like an intricate knit, which is perfect for the current chill in the air. Happily unlike so many Big Buddha bags the stitches are continued on the back of the bag for a sophisticated and cohesive look.

The interior is similarly impressive, with an array of zip and slip pockets. We've seen this kind of configuration before, but at this price point we don't take these kinds of organizational aids for granted. They work in tandem with the zippered top to make the Chloe secure. The dual handles are a shade shorter than I'd like, but most girls should still be able to sling them over their shoulder.

I love the classic appeal of the monochromatic color scheme, but the Chloe's also available in a more unusual burgundy palette if you prefer. Or perhaps, since they're only $94.95, you could indulge in both!

More Features of This Big Buddha Stitched Satchel

  • Fabric lined interior
  • Dual handles with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 4 x 16 x 13 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-chloe-satchel-affordable-woven-zigzag-pattern-carry-all-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Dakota Tote | Embossed Brown Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-dakota-tote-embossed-brown-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-dakota-tote-embossed-brown-leather-handbag/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 06:35:53 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=50454 Big Buddha Dakota ToteThere are few accessories more reliable than a classic tote bag. Big Buddha dresses up this wardrobe staple with some reptilian embossing to create the Dakota.

Exotic embossing can make a handbag look much richer when it's done right, or much cheaper when it's not. Thankfully Big Buddha excels with this lizard like design. It's not obviously trying to mimic any species, which is perhaps why it seems so convincing. The mix of differently sized scales creates a realism that's impressive on a bag of this price.

The interior does the job without exceeding our expectations. It's tending towards enormous, but the trio of inside pockets helps it feel more manageable. I'd enjoy a few more organizational pockets, but perhaps that says more about my own shortcomings than those of the tote.

Big Buddha offers plenty for our $94.95, including choice. I'm drawn to this burnished brown shade, but I'm happy to see it's not our only option. The traditionalists are catered for with basic black, but there's also yellow, green, and berry red for a pop of color. Which one's your favorite?

More Features of This Big Buddha Embossed Tote

  • Made of synthetic
  • Fully lined interior
  • Top zip entry
  • An exterior zip pocket
  • Dual handles with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 4.5 x 17 x 13 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-dakota-tote-embossed-brown-leather-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Studio Crossbody | Glitzy Pink Sequined Purse http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-studio-crossbody-glitzy-pink-sequined-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-studio-crossbody-glitzy-pink-sequined-purse/#comments Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:10:21 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=50072 Big Buddha Studio Cross-BodyBig Buddha may have created its most outrageous purse yet with this Studio Cross-Body Bag.

The name calls to mind Studio 54, the New York discotheque frequented by a who's who of 80s celebrities. I doubt this bag would have looked out of place there, but it might not blend as seamlessly into your everyday life.

Something tells me its fans would prefer to stand out though. And they'll do just that with this sequin covered creation. The glittery plastic pink discs are complemented by the chunky silver chain strap. The shiny materials are designed to make the maximum impact, and they do.

The Studio is smallish, but Big Buddha knows we don't need much on the dance floor. Its interior has pockets for a cell phone and the sunglasses you'll need as you emerge from the club. The Studio's soft body allows us to cram a few extra items inside, although you won't want to go overboard. When it's full that chain strap will become even more uncomfortable to carry. But we all know beauty is pain, right?

At $89.95 this cross-body seems a little expensive for what it is, but if you spend your weekends hopping from the cocktail bars to the clubs you might see value.

More Features of This Big Buddha Sequined Cross-Body Bag

  • An extendable cross-body strap
  • Measures 9 x 8 x 3 inches
  • Made in China

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-studio-crossbody-glitzy-pink-sequined-purse/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Uptown Satchel | Classic Quilted Black Vegan Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-uptown-satchel-classic-quilted-black-vegan-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-uptown-satchel-classic-quilted-black-vegan-leather-handbag/#comments Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:52:34 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=49986 Big Buddha Uptown SatchelBig Buddha's encouraging high class women to consider animal-free leather with this Uptown Satchel.

Big Buddha tends to favor synthetics rather than real leather, but it's rare to find them as lovely as this one. While it's a bit thin the leatherette is very soft. It probably won't fool anyone, but it's certainly worth the $104.95 Big Buddha is asking.

So many Big Buddha handbags are trend conscious, so it's refreshing to see one that follows more traditional lines. Its domed shape is softened with some well placed pleating. The classic diamond quilting is double stitched to give it a bit more personality. The gold-toned hardware complements the range of colors, which while traditional offers plenty of choice. Personally I can't go past the versatility of basic black, but there are five more options if it doesn't rock your boat.

The Uptown is also really practical, with plenty of space and organizational features to match. One wall has a large zippered pocket while the other has a duo of slips for gadgets. It doesn't exactly exceed our expectations, but when a bag is this affordable it's impressive just to get them met.

I'm not sure whether Big Buddha has done enough to convince posh types to trade in their leather, but this satchel is a great buy for bargain hunters.

More Features of this Big Buddha Quilted Satchel

  • Zip top closure
  • Plaid printed fabric lining
  • Dual handles
  • A detachable shoulder strap
  • Measures 19 x 14 x 7 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-uptown-satchel-classic-quilted-black-vegan-leather-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha London Satchel Bag | Quilted Studded Turnlock Red Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-london-satchel-bag-quilted-studded-turnlock-red-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-london-satchel-bag-quilted-studded-turnlock-red-handbag/#comments Fri, 12 Aug 2011 06:35:14 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=47682 Big Buddha London SatchelFashion matriarch Coco Chanel once told us to always take one thing off before we leave the house. This sound tip has saved many a girl from looking overdone when they stepped out. It's a shame that Big Buddha didn't take this sage advice when it created the London.

The London is a bag I like a lot. Its triangular quilting makes its high quality red synthetic seem a bit more luxurious. Its flap front and turnlock closure make more than a passing nod to Mulberry's Bayswater bag, but that's not entirely a bad thing. I love the way this golden clasp complements the chain straps.

But then there are those studs. They're delicate and demure, and again they complement the metal we've seen before. But with this one element the London goes from classy satchel to over-designed accessory.

While I'm expressing my reservations, I'm also not sure about the unusual placement of those handles. They're bound to get in the way when you're accessing the main compartment. I think in its efforts to be quirky, Big Buddha's forgotten about the functionality that comes when you stick to a tried and true approach.

It's a shame that just a few elements let down what could have been a really solid satchel. Some girls might figure close to perfect is good enough when we're paying less than $100, but personally I just wish things were done better.

More Features of This Big Buddha Quilted Satchel

  • Zip closure underneath the flap
  • Two open pockets and a zip pocket inside
  • Dual handles with a 9.5 inch drop
  • Measures 15 x 10 x 4 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-london-satchel-bag-quilted-studded-turnlock-red-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Saddle Messenger | Pink Studded Embossed Leatherette Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-saddle-messenger-pink-studded-embossed-leatherette-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-saddle-messenger-pink-studded-embossed-leatherette-handbag/#comments Tue, 26 Jul 2011 05:05:54 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=47025 Big Buddha Saddle MessengerBig Buddha delivers Western style, and just a hint of edge, with this Saddle messenger bag.

The embossed flourishes and contrast stitching around the uniquely shaped flap give the Saddle its country character. It's no hick though. The turnlock closure has been one of the most popular clasps in recent seasons, and its neutral colors are right on trend. I'm particularly fond of this earthy pink, but the Saddle's also available in stormy gray and a dirty cream hue. And then there are those spiky studs, another contemporary touch which give the Saddle real personality. I'm not quite sure the metal points gel with the rest of the design, but they do give this messenger real attitude.

The Saddle's casual, everyday looks are matched with a functional design. It's large but not very wide so it'll sit comfortably against the body. The dark blue inner lining doesn't make it easy to see what you're carrying, but there are enough interior pockets to keep your smallest valuables organized. The regular strap is too short to be really useful, but thankfully Big Buddha also includes a much longer one. It's adjustable too so you can wear the Saddle as a shoulder bag or cross-body purse.

At less than $100 the Saddle is a bargain, but thankfully it doesn't look like one. It's made from one of Big Buddha's better synthetics, and as such the Saddle is one of the label's better bags.

More Features of This Big Buddha Embossed Messenger

  • Printed polyester lining
  • A single handle with a 4 inch drop
  • An attachable handle with a 15 to 24 inch drop
  • Measures 10.5 x 13.5 x 3.75 inches
  • Made in China

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-saddle-messenger-pink-studded-embossed-leatherette-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Penny Lane Bucket Bag | Fringed Black Studded Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-penny-lane-bucket-bag-fringed-black-studded-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-penny-lane-bucket-bag-fringed-black-studded-handbag/#comments Wed, 20 Jul 2011 06:05:09 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=46786 Big Buddha Penny Lane Bucket BagBig Buddha seems influenced by the world's great musical genres with this Penny Lane Bucket. Unfortunately though, this bag can't decide whether it's a hippie folk singer or a rock star.

From the top to the center it's all rock and roll, with its black synthetic, rebellious slouch, and heavy metal. But it all goes awry when somewhere around the middle, Big Buddha covers the bag with bohemian fringing.

These long strands of synthetic are finished off with gypsy-like rings. That unique take on fringing might not have been so bad on another bag, but it seems to come out of the blue here. I've seen designers take disparate elements and somehow make them work, but the Penny Lane just comes off as clumsy.

I'm not a great fan of the Penny Lane's look, but Big Buddha never lets us down where it counts. The drawstring closure isn't the most effective way to keep your cargo safe, but the magnetic clasp underneath gives additional peace of mind. The interior is spacious and well appointed, with a zippered pocket and pair of open slips.

The flat base helps to counteract the Penny Lane's slouchy profile. At least it won't become a puddle of synthetic when we set it down. The chain woven strap is very fashionable but probably not so comfortable, so I'm glad we also get a longer cross-body strap for our busiest days. Both straps are removable to give the bag a clean look, no matter which way you're carrying it.

I don't think this is Big Buddha's best looking bag, but at least its price is right. At $89.95, the Penny Lane is an affordable and individual way to schlep your stuff.

More Features of This Big Buddha Fringed Bucket Bag

  • A chain woven strap with a 9.5 inch drop
  • An adjustable strap with a 14.5 to 26.5 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 8 x 10 inches
  • Made in China

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-penny-lane-bucket-bag-fringed-black-studded-handbag/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Layla Clutch | Convertible Quilted Taupe Synthetic Purse http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-layla-clutch-convertible-quilted-taupe-synthetic-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-layla-clutch-convertible-quilted-taupe-synthetic-purse/#comments Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:05:01 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=46523 Big Buddha Layla ClutchIt might not quite have me on my knees, but I've fallen hard for Big Buddha's Layla.

I can't help thinking of the Matelasse bags as I take in the quilting on the Layla. Just as Miu Miu did before, Big Buddha's stepped outside the box with this stitching to create a finish that's dramatic and so compelling. It also cleverly hides the shortcomings of Big Buddha's synthetic material. I've often criticized the label's cheap and cheerful fabrics, but the stitching breaks the synthetic up so much that we never notice its flaws.

The stitching is the hero, but the zippered edging on the envelope flap plays a great supporting role. It gives the Layla a little more attitude without overwhelming the already detailed purse.

You can carry the Layla as a clutch, but personally I think it's a little large for that. I have a feeling I'd only use the shoulder and cross-body straps if it were mine! Big Buddha has made these from more of the soft synthetic, so they'll be more comfortable to carry than most clutch straps.

Size is all well and good, but it never works alone. Big Buddha recognizes this and spoils us with a pair of slip pouches and a zippered pocket. That's almost standard for a day bag, but virtually unheard of for a clutch purse.

Big Buddha's really outdone itself with the Layla, so I expected we might pay a bit more to own it. Not so though; this purse is a real find at $79.95.

More Features of This Big Buddha Quilted Convertible Clutch

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Cotton lined interior
  • An attachable 16 inch shoulder strap
  • An attachable, adjustable 42.5-48 inch cross-body strap
  • Measures 2 x 12 x 8 inches
  • Made in China
  • Also available in black, white, and pink

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-layla-clutch-convertible-quilted-taupe-synthetic-purse/feed/ 0 Big Buddha Houston Cross-Body Bag | Chain Decorated Camel Vegan Leather Handbag http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-houston-cross-body-bag-chain-decorated-camel-vegan-leather-handbag/ http://bagbunch.com/big-buddha-houston-cross-body-bag-chain-decorated-camel-vegan-leather-handbag/#comments Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:05:45 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=46265 Big Buddha Houston Cross BodyBig Buddha takes the path less traveled, making its Houston feel rebellious not through studs and grommets but by some cleverly placed chains.

Chains are nothing new for creating rock and roll edge, but they tend to form the handles, or be laid haphazardly over the design. Big Buddha obscures them a bit, embedding them in the seams so we get just a glimpse of heavy metal.

I really like the look, which punches up the messenger-style cross-body with its gentle camel-colored leatherette. Without the chains the Houston would have been very pedestrian, but their addition makes the design something original and contemporary.

The Houston's not all about looks though. It's made for business, with a zippered pocket on the back and more leatherette trimmed pouches inside the ample interior. The strap is long and adjustable, and strangely attachable. Big Buddha says this allows us to use the purse as a clutch, although you'll never be able to utilize all its space if you do. Without a handle it'll simply become unwieldy when loaded up.

It might not be the perfect evening clutch, but Big Buddha definitely delivers a great day bag here for an affordable $84.95.

More Features of This Big Buddha Chain Decorated Cross-Body Bag

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Fully lined interior
  • An adjustable strap with a 20 to 23 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 3.5 x 9 inches

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