BagBunch - Bags, Handbags & Purses » Minaudiere http://bagbunch.com designer handbags & purses Fri, 25 May 2012 02:18:24 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 Kotur Levin Minaudiere | Large Striped Perspex Purse http://bagbunch.com/kotur-levin-minaudiere-large-striped-perspex-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/kotur-levin-minaudiere-large-striped-perspex-purse/#comments Sat, 19 May 2012 08:41:35 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=54862 Kotur Levin MinaudiereKotur shows us plastic can be truly fantastic with this Levin Minaudiere.

If I didn't know better, I'd swear the Levin was created with real mother-of-pearl. Instead its stripes are crafted from resin with a pearlized finish reminiscent of the prized material. The fabric's very common, yet under Kotur's skillful hands the Levin looks surprisingly high class.

The Levin's slender design makes it look a bit more chic, but it also makes carrying anything of substance a real challenge. If your cell phone is slim you might fit it inside, but there'll be little room for anything else! This really is a purse you carry for its looks rather than practical perks.

Modern girls may also be disappointed at the lack of shoulder strap. Admittedly we don't really need such a feature. The Levin's certainly small enough to carry by hand, or tucked underneath your arm. But as the night wears on you're likely to miss it.

The Levin looks a million bucks, but as it's used perspex Kotur's got little right to charge such an exorbitant fee. $650 seems an awful lot to spend on a plastic purse, no matter how stylish it is.

More Features of This Kotur Striped Minaudiere

  • Gold-toned hardware
  • Framed rectangular body
  • Faceted hinge clasp
  • Jacquard lined interior
  • An open interior pocket
  • Measures 4.5 x 9.5 x 1.25 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/kotur-levin-minaudiere-large-striped-perspex-purse/feed/ 0 Kathrine Baumann Titanic Minaudiere | Expensive Limited Edition Historic Cruise Ship Purse http://bagbunch.com/kathrine-baumann-titanic-minaudiere-expensive-limited-edition-historic-cruise-ship-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/kathrine-baumann-titanic-minaudiere-expensive-limited-edition-historic-cruise-ship-purse/#comments Wed, 16 May 2012 10:19:10 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=54768 Kathrine Baumann Titanic MinaudiereKathrine Baumann's marking the recent 100-year anniversary of the Titanic's sinking with this faithfully recreated minaudiere. Her fans might note she premiered the same purse when James Cameron's epic historical romance swept the Oscars in 1998. With the milestone celebrations in full swing, it seemed the perfect time to bring the ship back.

Some 15, 000 Swarovski crystals have been painstakingly applied to this ship-shaped purse to ensure it looks like the world's most famous cruise liner. Its glittering smokestakes are encrusted with 24-karat gold aurum stones coated in real gold. Its tuckaway shoulder chain its also dipped in more of that real gold. How indulgent!

This purse should also prove much sturdier than that ship! I can't imagine it'll encounter any icebergs, but Kathrine Baumann offers some extra crystals should any flake from the purse's surface.

The price of this Titanic purse is truly staggering, a whopping $100, 000. No, I didn't accidentally add an extra zero when transcribing the price. This purse costs an astronomical one hundred, thousand smackeroos. Can any fashion accessory, no matter how luxurious, ever warrant such an exorbitant bottom line?

More Features of This Kathrine Baumann Ship Minaudiere

  • Measures 7.75 x 3.5 x 2.5 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/kathrine-baumann-titanic-minaudiere-expensive-limited-edition-historic-cruise-ship-purse/feed/ 1 Judith Leiber Zodiac Minaudiere | Rounded Square Leo the Lion Evening Purse http://bagbunch.com/judith-leiber-zodiac-minaudiere-rounded-square-leo-the-lion-evening-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/judith-leiber-zodiac-minaudiere-rounded-square-leo-the-lion-evening-purse/#comments Tue, 15 May 2012 08:52:34 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=54749 Judith Leiber Zodiac MinaudiereI might not always find Judith Leiber's distinctive accessories wearable, but her sparkling purses usually wow me. They're typically colourful creations that seem more like works of arts than simple accessories. However, strangely her Zodiac Minaudere purse has left me underwhelmed.

The Zodiac has all the ingredients that drew me to Judith Leiber, but none of the flair. Champagne colored Austrian crystals illuminate the image of Leo the lion against the jet gemstone background. The rounded corners contemporize the classic square hard-shell case, yet I'm still not feeling it.

I ordinarily expect a rainbow of colors from Judith Leiber, but their absence isn't what's turning me off. I've seen her work well with the classic black and white combination before on bags like the Nancy and this crystal embellished satin clutch. But those purses seemed so much more opulent. The lion graphic seems crudely done and very basic, something we don't expect from the Judith Leiber stable.

The price is the final insult for me. If I had the money I'd love to drop $2195 on a Judith Leiber original, but it'd be one that looks much richer than this.

More Features of This Judith Leiber Rounded Square Minaudiere

  • Push lock closure
  • A tuck-away shoulder strap
  • Measures 4 x 5.1 x 1.5 inches
  • Made in Italy

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/judith-leiber-zodiac-minaudiere-rounded-square-leo-the-lion-evening-purse/feed/ 0 Jessica McClintock Fashion Minaudiere | Pleated Black Satin Purse with Rhinestone Flower http://bagbunch.com/jessica-mcclintock-fashion-minaudiere-pleated-black-satin-purse-with-rhinestone-flower/ http://bagbunch.com/jessica-mcclintock-fashion-minaudiere-pleated-black-satin-purse-with-rhinestone-flower/#comments Tue, 15 May 2012 05:12:39 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=54722 Jessica McClintock Fashion MinaudiereJessica McClintock channels old world glamour with this Fashion Minaudiere. However despite a promising start, the design falls a bit flat for me.

I really like this clutch purse's base. The gently curved corners of the structured box are very chic, and the tightly pleated black satin is lovely. But in my opinion the rhinestone covered flower spoils the design. It's so gaudy that it makes an otherwise modern purse feel dated. Perhaps Jessica McClintock should have made the flower a removable brooch, rather than a permanent fixture. I have a sneaking suspicion this minaudiere would have looked much more sophisticated without it.

As with so many purses of this ilk, there's not a lot of space to carry anything at all. You could probably squeeze your credit card, a slender cell phone, and your house key inside, but anything more may be pushing it. While the shoulder strap will come in handy as the evening wears on, it's also disappointing that it's not removable. The last thing we need is the chain cluttering the already tiny compartment!

It's hard to be too critical of an after five purse that costs just $61.99 though. That's not a lot to spend on a clutch that will work with everything in your evening wardrobe!

More Features of This Jessica McClintock Satin Minaudiere

  • Snap lock closure
  • An interior slide pocket
  • Measures 5 x 4 x 2 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/jessica-mcclintock-fashion-minaudiere-pleated-black-satin-purse-with-rhinestone-flower/feed/ 0 Dan W Chevron Minaudiere | Authentic Snakeskin Art Deco Purse http://bagbunch.com/dan-w-chevron-minaudiere-authentic-snakeskin-art-deco-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/dan-w-chevron-minaudiere-authentic-snakeskin-art-deco-purse/#comments Sat, 21 Apr 2012 01:19:15 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=54101 Dan W Chevron MinaudiereDan W makes a strong style statement with this Chevron Minaudiere. But do you like what it’s saying?

We’ve seen several of these art deco inspired purses from Dan W. Their bold lines and dramatic contrasting colors help them turn heads, but I feel the formula’s been less successful here than in previous models. The arcadia wood trim seems clumsy, and the horn and mother of pearl accents appear tacked on.

It’s a shame the design doesn’t strike a chord, because the Chevron Minaudiere is made from such enviable materials. The exotic wood, buffalo horn, and mother of pearl we noted before is married with authentic snakeskin and a soft velvety lining. Yet despite all those covetable materials, the Chevron Minaudiere only costs $180.

But you can’t buy a bag like this simply because it’s cheap. It needs to look good, because it doesn’t have functional features to endear it. It’s small, and its structured design further limits storage space. We struggle with these restrictions when a purse worms its way into our heart, but when it doesn’t there seems little point.

This Chevron Minaudiere certainly has redeeming elements, but they haven’t come together with the designer’s usual panache.

More Features of This Dan W Art Deco Minaudiere

  • Hand crafted
  • Measures 4 x 8 x 3 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/dan-w-chevron-minaudiere-authentic-snakeskin-art-deco-purse/feed/ 0 Kotur Rene Mosaic Minaudiere | Mother of Pearl Tiled Purse http://bagbunch.com/kotur-rene-mosaic-minaudiere-mother-of-pearl-tiled-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/kotur-rene-mosaic-minaudiere-mother-of-pearl-tiled-purse/#comments Fri, 23 Mar 2012 06:37:15 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=53383 Kotur Rene Mosaic MinaudiereKotur takes a break from its usual clutches to deliver this more upmarket Rene Mosaic Minaudiere.

Kotur's clutch purses are usually elegant, but they look positively casual next to this polished beauty. I love the way the fashion house has used pale polished squares of mother of pearl to create a very subtle, very sophisticated mosaic finish. These tiled surfaces have been around since the fourth century, but the use of regularly shaped squares makes the finish feel very fresh.

The pale orange, pink, and blue pearlized tiles are offset by a bold black gemstone clasp. Personally I think the closure's a little too chunky for those delicate squares, but it only slightly dampens my enthusiasm for this pretty purse.

Nobody buys a minaudiere because it's especially practical. The brass frame provides such an alluring structure, but also ensures we can't overfill the small interior. If we try to sneak an extra tube of lip gloss inside, that clasp will simply pop open in protest!

You'll probably need to pare back your idea of evening essentials, but it'll be worth it when the compliments roll in!

More Features of This Kotur Mother of Pearl Minaudiere

  • A round link chain strap
  • Brown metallic jacquard lining
  • Measures 3.25 x 6.5 x 1.6 inches

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/kotur-rene-mosaic-minaudiere-mother-of-pearl-tiled-purse/feed/ 0 Whiting & Davis Paris Minaudiere | Elegant Crystal Decorated Metal Mesh Evening Purse http://bagbunch.com/whiting-davis-paris-minaudiere-elegant-crystal-decorated-metal-mesh-evening-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/whiting-davis-paris-minaudiere-elegant-crystal-decorated-metal-mesh-evening-purse/#comments Sun, 19 Feb 2012 06:41:10 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=52626 Whiting & Davis Paris MinaudiereWhiting & Davis returns to its roots with this Paris Minaudiere.

Lately we've seen the label contemporizing its iconic metal mesh finishes with bold colors and modern patterns. This minaudiere has a much more classic look, and it'll be more timeless for it. The gently rounded edges and shimmering metal mesh finish are very traditional details. The dotted crystals help the Paris stand out from other similar purses, and give it just the right amount of bling.

The attention to detail is also impressive. While the Paris doesn't give us a lot of space, it makes up for it with its high quality brass frame and long serpentine chain. This cross-body strap is also detachable, so we can leave it behind if we don't intend to use it rather than seeing it clutter the already small interior.

This Paris looks a million bucks but costs a lot less. If you rarely step out after five you may hesitate to spend $225 on this purse, but if your social calendar is crowded you'll see value here.

More Features of This Whiting & Davis Minaudiere

  • Rectangular clasp closure
  • A detachable chain with a 20 inch drop
  • Polyester lined interior
  • Measures 2 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches
  • Also available in pewter

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/whiting-davis-paris-minaudiere-elegant-crystal-decorated-metal-mesh-evening-purse/feed/ 0 Savanna Austrian Crystal Topaz Minaudiere | Vintage Geometric Pattern Evening Purse http://bagbunch.com/savanna-austrian-crystal-topaz-minaudiere-vintage-geometric-pattern-evening-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/savanna-austrian-crystal-topaz-minaudiere-vintage-geometric-pattern-evening-purse/#comments Sun, 05 Feb 2012 06:06:52 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=52296 Savanna Austrian Crystal MinaudiereWe all know Savanna as a cheap and cheerful label, but with this Austrian Crystal Topaz Minaudiere it shows us it's also got a glamorous side.

This minaudiere isn't too different to the ones Judith Leiber creates, although its design is much more wearable than many of her quirky creations. Its retro geometric pattern takes us back to the 70s with its earthy metallics. Its rounded edges soften the look and make it more ergonomic. However I'm not sure I'd trust those crystals to stay put if you only hold the purse by hand, especially as Savanna doesn't provide extra gemstones as many fashion house's do. Thankfully there's also a long chain strap to help us out.

This minaudiere's interior is small and simple. There are no real surprises here, although the leather lining makes this petite compartment feel a bit more opulent.

Most Savanna bags clock in well under $100, but not this beauty. It's much more expensive at $800. That's a real jump for the label's fans to swallow, but when you compare it to similar minaudieres on the market it's a relatively affordable way to rock a high class look.

More Features of This Savanna Checkered Minaudiere

  • Clasp closure
  • A chain strap with a 22 inch drop
  • Measures 4.5 x 4.5 inches
  • Comes with a dust bag
  • Made in China

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]]> http://bagbunch.com/savanna-austrian-crystal-topaz-minaudiere-vintage-geometric-pattern-evening-purse/feed/ 0 Brian Atwood Designs Clutches | Footwear Designer’s New Spring Evening Purses http://bagbunch.com/brian-atwood-designs-clutches-footwear-designers-new-spring-evening-purses/ http://bagbunch.com/brian-atwood-designs-clutches-footwear-designers-new-spring-evening-purses/#comments Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:01:57 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=52007 Brian Atwood Minaudiere

Footwear king Brian Atwood is adding handbags to his fashionable range.

Atwood is starting small, with plans to release just four evening purses this spring. The clutches and minaudieres will be sold in limited quantities exclusively through Gilt.com. Their rarity and high class materials see them priced on the high side, between $1,050 and $1,850.

Atwood says that he's always loved designing handbags, and after repeated requests to release some he decided to bow to the pressure.

"It seemed like the right time to start with chic clutches then eventually expand on that," he explained.

While choosing a favorite purse is probably like choosing a favorite child, Atwood admits that he's partial to the modern zipper-framing of his Carla clutch. This design is available in a range of materials, including suede and crocodile skin, so we can assume the other purses will also be released in various skins.

If those four-figure purses are out of your price range, don't despair. Atwood says he also plans to add handbags to his more affordable diffusion line, B Brian Atwood. And soon the lads will also be able to indulge in Brian Atwood designs, as he plans to add men's footwear to his signature collection.

What new Brian Atwood addition are you most excited about?

[Source: Glamazon Diaries]

]]> http://bagbunch.com/brian-atwood-designs-clutches-footwear-designers-new-spring-evening-purses/feed/ 0 Louis Vuitton Bijou Minaudiere | Elegant Tortoiseshell Logo Evening Purse http://bagbunch.com/louis-vuitton-bijou-minaudiere-elegant-tortoiseshell-logo-evening-purse/ http://bagbunch.com/louis-vuitton-bijou-minaudiere-elegant-tortoiseshell-logo-evening-purse/#comments Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:24:15 +0000 Lauren http://bagbunch.com/?p=51845 Louis Vuitton Bijou MinaudiereLouis Vuitton shows it's got the stuff it takes to make minaudieres with the best of them. It's just a shame that the label still hasn't learned the art of restraint.

There's a lot to love about this minaudiere. Its jewel shape is really striking, and I love the way its angled lines are emphasized with polished golden brass. I also adore the way the moody tortoiseshell acetate panels complement the gleaming metal. But then Louis Vuitton had to go and slap its large logo on top of things.

It's a shame that while the fashion industry has moved away from obvious branding, Louis Vuitton hasn't followed suit. We get it; this is a Louis Vuitton purse. But by screaming it in such a loud way, the minaudiere loses a lot of its class. Leaving it at the subtle engraving on the push lock clasp would have appeared much more elegant.

Personally I think the logo cheapens the minaudiere and makes it appear less than its $3500 price tag. If you're a fan I suppose you'll be happy to advertise you're carrying Louis Vuitton. Personally I'm disappointed that a bag with such promise has ended up looking so tacky and dated.

More Features of This Louis Vuitton Tortoiseshell Minaudiere

  • Golden lambskin lining
  • A jewelry like golden chain
  • Measures 5.5 x 4.3 x 2 inches

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