Tamlin & The Fall Debuts Line of Luxurious Handcrafted $20K Minaudieres

Posted on: Oct 19

Kitschy minaudieres from designers like Kathrine Baumann and Timmy Woods are certainly unique but not exactly what I picture spending hard-earned cash on for this type of ornamental jewelry-like bag. Swarovski-encrusted Barbie heads and shiny Santa faces might be quirky and whimsical but aren't necessarily my style.

The debut line of luxury minaudiere cases from label Tamlin & The Fall is more up my alley, though. The capsule collection includes three truly luxurious and contemporary designs. The sculptural shapes include cases inspired by the egg, the crystal, and the shell.

Each one is handcrafted and made with over a pound of precious metal. Feathers and hammered-chain add sophisticated detail to these minaudieres. The luxury doesn't end with the outside, though. For example, the egg shape opens to reveal an alligator lining. Now that's what I call opulence to the core.

Precious metal and exotic skin always comes with a high cost, however, and these Tamlin & The Fall designs are no exception. The prices of these one-of-a-kind minaudiere cases starts at just over $19,000. If only I had that kind of money to spend on such an accessory.

[Source: Luxist]

Minaudiere Cases on eBay

Judith Leiber Minaudiere Sparkling Sapphire Crystals Judith Leiber Minaudiere Sparkling Sapphire Crystals
US $1,199.00   0 Bid Paypal
Auction Ends: 17h 26m
Make it yours...
EXQUISITE RARE FAUX TORTOISE SHELL COMPACT MINAUDIERE EXQUISITE RARE FAUX TORTOISE SHELL COMPACT MINAUDIERE
US $24.99   1 Bid Paypal
Auction Ends: 20h 14m
Make it yours...
Shell Minaudiere with Brass Chain Strap and Frame Shell Minaudiere with Brass Chain Strap and Frame
US $30.00   0 Bid Paypal
Auction Ends: 21h 10m
Make it yours...
Posted in Minaudiere, New Bags, News | Tell Us What You Think »

Luxury Label Mont Charles Debuts In-Store Boutique with Limited Edition Handbag Collection

Posted on: Oct 13

Paris Fashion Week brought with it a rush of new styles and tons of high fashion and elegance. It also ushered in the launch of a limited edition handbag collection from Mont Charles de Monaco, which is regarded as the "premier high fashion label of the Principality of Monaco."

In addition to an haute couture runway show resulting from a collaboration between Mont Charles and designer Christophe Guillarme, the label debuted its new in-store boutique on the renowned luxury-laden ground floor of Paris' Galeries Lafayette. The new boutique displays Mont Charles' new 2010 Haute Maroquinerie collection, which includes exotic skins and ultra-feminine, sophisticated designs that are meant to be a fashion investment for women.

"The world absolutely associates Monaco with glamour", stated Founder & CEO John Mclean. "Mont Charles de Monaco emphasises this, and adds a modern twist".

Materials like python and alligator are crafted into simple, elegant, curved handbags that practically ooze the sophistication of famous luxury labels such as Hermes and Prada. More can be seen from the posh collection on Mont Charles de Monaco's online catalog.

[Source: fibre2fashion]

Alligator Handbags on eBay

Posted in New Bags, News | Tell Us What You Think »

Discreet Luxury Goods Favored in Financial Crisis | Harvey Nichols Customers Spend Up on Logo Free Handbags

Posted on: Sep 27

Financial crisis? What financial crisis? That's the attitude of Harvey Nichols customers, who are still happy to fork out the big bucks for luxury handbags.

A representative from the retail chain's Knightsbridge store said one customer recently parted with £15, 000 for a hand-made alligator leather purse from American designer Lana Marks. The sale of the multicolored Positano handbag shows some shoppers are still prepared to splash their cash around.

But Hillary Vallieres, a spokeswoman for the store, says luxury lovers are rejecting signature prints and other heavily branded bags for more subtle designs. She explains that Lana Marks is "in the category of discreet luxury; it doesn't have a screaming label as other big brands do. A lot of customers are considering having less ostentatious labels, especially given the current recession."

Many of the store's high-end customers are wealthy jetsetters, adds personal shopping manager Rebecca Saville. She explained that the weaker pound has enticed shoppers from Asia and the rest of Europe.

The handbag market exceeded £500 million in the United Kingdom for the first time last year, but market researcher Mintel still predicts a slump due to the recession.

[Source: UTV News]
[Image Source: Lana Marks]

Lana Marks Handbags on eBay

Posted in News | Tell Us What You Think »

Kenneth Jay Lane Ali Shoulder Bag | Crocodile Embossed Leather Bag with Jewel Encrusted Alligator

Posted on: Sep 18

According to Kenneth Jay Lane, kitsch never went out of style. Many would disagree with the design house, but if you don't the Ali may be the shoulder bag you're searching for.

The $290 price tag doesn't buy you authentic crocodile, but it does buy genuine leather. Kenneth Jay Lane gives the calfskin an exotic appeal with its embossed scales. I doubt anyone would mistake this imitation for the real deal, but that doesn't matter. It's still an eye-catching finish, particularly in this croc ice shade.

The reptilian theme is carried on with a cute alligator accent near the base. The silvery creature is studded with large jewels for a little extra bling. It's the sort of feature you're likely to love or hate, and your take on it will probably decide whether you buy this bag or not!

The Ali is a fairly small bag by modern standards, with barely enough space for the essentials. Such a tiny interior needs little to keep you organized, so there's just a slip pocket with a mirror inside. This is such a handy little extra for those emergency cosmetics applications!

The $290 is reasonably priced for a Kenneth Jay Lane bag, making it a decent pick-up for girls willing to take a fashion gamble.

More Features of This Kenneth Jay Lane Alligator Shoulder Bag

  • Flap over entry with hidden magnetic clasp
  • A 48-inch shoulder strap with a 24 inch drop
  • Measures 7 x 1.5 x 5 inches

Get this Kenneth Jay Lane Ali Handbag:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Black, Kenneth Jay Lane, Shoulder Bags, White | Tell Us What You Think »

Burberry Nova Armored Handbag | Gunmetal Baby Beaton Hold-all

Posted on: Sep 10

This is a pretty and unusual hold-all bag from respected designer Burberry.

Bringing a new twist to the traditional Burberry tartan, this gunmetal patent purse is covered from shiny head to shiny toe in squares of PVC colored canvas, on which are snapshots of that well-known tartan. The stud fastenings and metallic shades all lean towards 80's drama, although this hold-all does miss out on some of the gothic features dominating this season's catwalks.

For such a bold and brave bag this tote is actually surprisingly neutral in color. It could happily combine with both darks and lights, and the Burberry pattern should see you through multiple seasons. This armored purse is a great investment piece.

Considering the space of this modern Burberry classic, the designer has not put many pockets in to help your organization. We could have used more slots to maximize the tote's capacity, and to give those long handles something to carry.

More Features of this Burberry Nova Hold-all

  • 1 interior zipper pocket
  • Leather drawstring closure
  • 9" handle drop
  • Patent leather with PVC coated canvas

Get this Exciting Armored Tote:

You may also be interested in:

Burberry Handbag Burberry Handbag
US $89.00   13 Bids Paypal
Auction Ends: 29m
Make it yours...
AUTHENTIC Burberry Quilted Leather Handbag AUTHENTIC Burberry Quilted Leather Handbag
US $320.00   18 Bids Paypal
Auction Ends: 2h 48m
Make it yours...
Posted in Burberry, Pewter, Tote | Tell Us What You Think »

Ralph Lauren Alligator Bag | Luxurious Metallic Bronze Exotic Drawstring Purse from Purple Label

Posted on: Sep 1

From Ralph Lauren’s luxurious Purple Label comes this ultra opulent alligator bag.

Drawstring bags tend to be a relaxed affair, but there's nothing casual about this exotic purse. As if genuine alligator doesn't have enough oomph, this skin is given a metallic bronze makeover. Personally, I feel this glitzy coat cheapens the look. The brassiness makes it resemble an imitation exotic rather than the real deal. And with its whopping $20, 000 price tag, I'd want to people to know my bag is authentic!

The exterior doesn't impress me, but the inside has me salivating. It's fitting that such a luxurious space is lined in buttery soft chocolate leather. It's not the most practical choice, but something tells me anyone who carries a handbag worth $20k isn't so concerned with everyday issues! But sadly, this is another case of style winning out over substance. It's lacking in the organization department, although if you dropped this much on a purse you might not have the cash to buy anything to put in it!

This bag's gaudy finish is not to my tastes, and its retail value is not to my budget, but I can imagine the Paris Hiltons of this world embracing this show pony!

More Features of This Ralph Lauren Bronze Bag

  • Gold hardware
  • An engraved nameplate on the handle
  • An attached leather purse
  • A removable shoulder strap
  • Measures 14 x 15 x 7 inches

Get this Ralph Lauren Alligator Handbag:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Animal Print, Bronze, Ralph Lauren | Tell Us What You Think »

Dutch Company Henk Sells Handmade Luxury Luggage for $20,000

Posted on: Aug 25

When you hear the phrase luxury luggage, I'm guessing that visions of Louis Vuitton cases flash through your mind. Although the brand's famously monogrammed travel bags seems to be a popular choice among jet-setting celebrities, they are certainly not the only ones in the business of expensive luggage.

A company named Henk, which is based in the Netherlands, gives people another option for traveling in style. Luxurious is hardly a strong enough adjective to describe this brand's product. It's downright swanky.

This futuristic-looking suitcase rings in at an astounding $20,000. However, I suppose the price is justified by the handmade, completely unique and technologically advanced product you get. Its super lightweight design is compact enough to meet IATA regulations for carry-on luggage but with convenient features like retractable wheels and a central locking system. I guess all of this accomplishes Henk's mission to "fulfil the dreams and desires of those who find space, money and time to enjoy the beautiful things in life."

The options are practically endless for customizing your own suitcase. Besides choosing between things like glossy carbon fibre or ostrich-embossed calfskin for the outside, you can also personalize your Henk by adding a name, monogram, or even logo to the design. I guess that's the benefit of each one being made by hand to your specifications. Talk about luxury!

It's a completely different style from other designer luggage like Louis Vuitton or Tom Ford's traditional alligator set but something that I'm sure will intrigue many a wealthy business man or woman with high demands, contemporary taste, and few grand to spend.

[Source: Luxist]
[Image: Henk]

Designer Luggage on eBay

Designer Luggage Duffle Bags Handbags and Umbrellas Designer Luggage Duffle Bags Handbags and Umbrellas
US $100.00   0 Bid Paypal
Auction Ends: 5d 14h 10m
Make it yours...
Posted in News | Tell Us What You Think »

Naomi Campbell Gives Away Hermes Birkin Bag for Charity

Posted on: Jul 22

When I think of generous, philanthropic celebs, Naomi Campbell isn't a name which springs to mind. But it seems I might have misjudged the hot-tempered supermodel. She's showing rare altruism and donating an exotic Hermes Birkin bag to charity.

Naomi will part with a green alligator skin Birkin for the next Hermes annual vintage sale. And she's not the only star giving up one of the French fashion house's precious purses. Princess Stephanie of Monaco has kindly contributed a handbag belonging to her mother, the late Grace Kelly.

Funds raised by the luxurious donations will benefit The White Ribbon Alliance. The international organization looks to ensure pregnancy and childbirth is safe for all women and newborns around the world.

The Hermes auction takes place on November 10. You might want to start saving your pennies if you hope to secure either bag. The combination of star power and luxury is a heady combination for any fashion fan!

[Source: Elle UK]
[Image Source: Jesse Gross/Wikipedia Commons]

Hermes Birkin Bags on eBay

Posted in Hermes, News | Tell Us What You Think »

Tom Ford Releases Luxurious, and Expensive, Alligator Luggage

Posted on: Jul 19

Recession? What recession? Tom Ford is one designer forging ahead with its ultra-luxe vision, despite the economic downturn.

The fashion house's latest decadent creation is a drool-worthy three-piece set of alligator luggage with matching gloves. And it can be yours for just $65, 000.

Of course Tom Ford knows that not everyone can splash around that kind of cash, so each piece is also available separately. The document portfolio is $11,900. The briefcase is $22,500. And the duffel bag is even pricier at $27,190 thanks to the gold engine-turned locking mechanisms. That makes the matching gloves seem like a steal at $3,230!

Those prices seem exorbitant, but Tom Ford justifies the costs by using only the best alligator skin. Each piece has been carefully selected for its stunning finish and symmetry. And unlike many designer bags, straps and other parts are also made from alligator rather than inferior leathers. Add the Italian heritage and superb craftsmanship, and you've got some pretty pricey purses!

[Source: Luxist]
[Image Source: Beadwoman/Flickr]

Tom Ford Handbags on eBay

Posted in New Bags, News | Tell Us What You Think »

Michelle Obama Carries Patent VBH Clutch in Russia | Mistaken for $6K Alligator Version

Posted on: Jul 9

The White House wants you to know that the First Lady wasn't toting around alligator skin on a recent trip to Russia.

It was an official clarification made after handbag brand VBH mistakenly identified one of their clutches in an official photo from Moscow. It's no mistake that Michelle Obama is a huge fan of the label. She has been spotted at numerous events carrying their designs.

However, when VBH boasted that the First Lady was carrying a nearly $6,000 alligator manila clutch recently, White House was quick to correct. They stated that Mrs. Obama was, instead, styling a patent leather version of the clutch that costs a mere $875.

I'm sure the goal was to ensure that her practical, no-nonsense image isn't tarnished by overspending in the midst of a financial crisis. I'm not sure that $875 is what most would call "attainable" even if it is significantly cheaper than the $6k version. Well, at least I'm sure they've appeased PETA in this matter.

[Source: NY Daily News]
[Image: Story Accents/Flickr]

VBH Handbags on eBay 

VBH HAND MADE IN ITALY BLACK HANDBAG SILVER HARDWARE VBH HAND MADE IN ITALY BLACK HANDBAG SILVER HARDWARE
US $179.99   1 Bid Paypal
Auction Ends: 22h 12m
Make it yours...
FARRAH FAWCETTs VBH BeRMuDa BLue SILK WRiSTLET BAG FARRAH FAWCETTs VBH BeRMuDa BLue SILK WRiSTLET BAG
US $176.00   0 Bid
Auction Ends: 4d 15h 30m
Make it yours...
NEW VBH V Bruce Hoeksema DIVA HANDBAG C PICS NEW VBH V Bruce Hoeksema DIVA HANDBAG C PICS
US $1,995.00   Paypal
Auction Ends: 6d 19h 3m
Make it yours...
Posted in News, VBH | Tell Us What You Think »