Devi Kroell’s Flagship Store Opens on Madison Avenue in New York City

Posted on: Nov 2

Devi Kroell might have a Target diffusion line under her belt, but her newest venture is a far cry from her affordable line of handbags featured in the budget-conscious store. This New York-based designer is moving up in the retail world ... specifically to a new flagship boutique in Manhattan's prestigious Upper East Side.

Since her first collection debuted in 2004, Kroell has been gaining momentum as well as more than a handful of celebrity fans. Fashionistas like Ashley Olsen, Anne Hathaway, and Rihanna have carried her luxurious designs, and even Gossip Girl has caught the Kroell fever.

The award-winning designer has earned her spot on New York City's Madison Avenue, and the real estate couldn't be more impressive. Exotic skin handbags, jeweled clutches, gorgeous shoes, and other items are impeccably displayed in the two-story flagship store.

"I wanted to create an airy, secluded space where shoppers could have a serene experience and take in the pieces at their own pace," the designer says.

Hopefully this is one fashion brand whose sales and success will continue to rise rather than dip into dangerous territory necessitating layoffs and store closings. Be sure to check out the new boutique at 717 Madison Avenue next time you're in the Big Apple.

[Source: Style List]

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Coloriffics Metallic Glittery Clutch | Smooth, Modern and Affordable Purse

Posted on: Oct 29

What with the Christmas party season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to start stocking up on your glitter.

If you want to own a clutch that is glittery and metallic without spending too much money, then this little purse form Coloriffics is a snap at $38 in either gold or silver.

Of course, glitter isn't the classiest substance on the planet. For having a bit of fun though, nothing catches people's eyes in quite the same way. As long as you aren't spending too much money on it, a pretty clutch will let you have fun and party until the sun comes up.

This Coloriffics metallic clutch is a basic bag. You aren't paying for luxuries, and as such you get a simple lining, single ineffectual slide pocket and an optional chain handle. These fulfil their purpose, but are unlikely to last several seasons.

If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful Christmas purse, this will do fine. The look is stylish, the cost is low even if the quality isn't quite up to snuff!

More Features of this Simple Party Bag

  • Optional chain strap
  • Frame in matching hardware
  • Also available in gold

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La Regale Antique Tapestry Purse | Beaded Gold Floral Vintage Bag

Posted on: Oct 19

Unless you told me that this was a La Regale handbag, I'd never have known. The brand normally favors minimalist, classic designs, but this vintage purse offers something else!

Traditional embroidery works with glitzy colored beads and sequins to create this tapestry design. The floral motif reminds me of the kind of pattern you might spot on a cushion in your grandmother's sitting room. That does make it authentically vintage I suppose, but I prefer my old-world fashions to be a little more rooted in modern styles. This busy design looks a little stodgy to me.

The antique appearance is only emphasized by the colored beads which form the dual handles. If it was your cup of Earl Grey, I suppose you'll like the extra splash of vintage. For me it's simply too much, not to mention a little impractical.

If you've fallen for the look, the interior isn't likely to change your mind. The satiny lining is lush, and the handy pocket for cards and cash is a little more than we might expect in an evening bag. You'll also find enough space for your lipstick, and a compact for powdering your nose!

I worry about beads and sequins going astray in time, but at least this La Regale evening purse won't break the bank. At $80 retail, this La Regale offers something a little different for vintage fashion fans.

More Features of This La Regale Antique Bag

  • Magnetic closure
  • Dual 17 inch handles with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 6.75 x 6.75 inches

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Felix Rey Madison Clutch | Bridal Metal Mesh and Crystal Purse

Posted on: Oct 8

Felix Rey's bridal collection shows a glitzier side to the brand. Gone is the beachside appeal, replaced with a healthy dose of bling!

The Madison is a clutch styled with modern brides in mind. The flap design and satin trim may be classic, but there's nothing traditional about the shiny chain mesh. This gleaming metallic finish is offset with a band of sparkling crystals.

This purse is larger than many clutches, but I certainly wouldn't call it oversized. It's the perfect size for wedding essentials though, including a small pack of tissues and a lipstick for those after-dinner touch-ups!

The lack of shoulder strap is disappointing, but not altogether unexpected. Clutching a clutch the old-fashioned way is simply more becoming to a bride, although she may wish for that hands-free option when the canapés come out!

This purse would be a delightful contrast to a classic white wedding dress, but it'd look just as eye-catching with any evening ensemble. That versatility makes this wedding purse seem well worth its $260 price tag.

More Features of This Felix Rey Bridal Clutch

  • Hidden magnetic closure
  • Grosgrain lining
  • Measures 9 x 5.5 inches

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New Fashion Label Lena Erziak Creates Affordable Handcrafted Exotic Purses

Posted on: Oct 5

Sister act Leona and Hasna Erziak are generating some major buzz with their Lena Erziak handbags. The purses have already found their way into the pages of Lucky, Life and Style, and People magazines.

The secret to the label's rapid rise is an old fashioned formula of handcrafted Italian accessories made from high quality materials. Lena Erziak bags are available in python, ostrich, buffalo, lambskin, and traditional leather.

Of course, those exotic skins never come cheaply, but Lena Erziak bags are surprisingly affordable. Purses from the summer 2010 collection start at $455 for the elegant Jepetto evening bag, and range up to $1115 for this large Alessandro tote bag in python. That's not exactly chump change, but it seems a steal for a handcrafted exotic purse.

Of course, there's always a catch. Right now Lena Erziak bags are only available at Stella Filante at 156 Ludlow Street, New York City. Next time you're in the Big Apple it might be worth bypassing the big name designer handbags on Madison Avenue for these lesser known beauties!

[Source: Lena Erziak]

Authentic Python Tote Bags on eBay

Elaine Turner Madison Pouchette | Small Shoulder Bag with Embossed Tortoise Finish

Posted on: Sep 21

Why should snake and crocodile get all the accolades? Elaine Turner serves up a different kind of exotic with its Madison Pouchette.

Of course, Elaine Turner doesn't dabble in genuine exotics. Instead it's merely embossed the leather with a tortoise-shell finish. The scales are large and irregular, giving the purse a contemporary finish. Under the hands of a lesser designer, this modern texture may seem at odds with the Madison's retro design. Yet somehow the traditional flap and vintage curves work in harmony with this unique surface.

This is a small bag, more suited to a coffee with the girls than a day full of errands. But there are a few pockets inside to keeps your essentials in order. The signature pink crown lining is also a bit of fun.

$350 seems a little pricey for a purse that's so small, especially one that's made from embossed exotic rather than the real thing. But if you have the cash to spare, the Madison does offer a look that you won't see anywhere else.

More Features of This Elaine Turner Tortoise Pouchette

  • A gold logo-engraved clasp
  • Satin gold hardware
  • A leather shoulder strap with chain details and a 7.5 inch drop
  • Measures 5.5 x 5.5 inches
  • Made in the United States of America
  • Comes with a dust bag

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LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Shoulderbag | Functional Handbag in a Range of Colors

Posted on: Sep 7

Having a beautiful and stylish handbag is great, but sometimes what you really need is a functional and useful shoulder bag that will see you through whatever the world throws at you.

Everyday brand LeSportsac is just the thing for useful purses, and this deluxe version of its shoulder bag is jam-packed with useful features. Inside there are plenty of spacious pockets for all sorts of bits and pieces, including an expandable front pocket and matching little purse.

The looks of this simple square handbag may not be awe-inspiring, but they are inoffensive. Also, as with all LeSportsac bags, you can choose from an extensive range of patterns and fabrics to ensure that the shoulder bag suits your personality entirely. It isn't a rare leather or recycled tote, but this sporty purse does manage to attempt individuality!

All in all this LeSportsac everyday shoulder bag is a useful addition to your bag, and is great for days out, picnics and more. Its sporty looks aren't terrible, but don't expect masses of admirers!

More Features of this Deluxe Shoulder Bag

  • Range of 25 shades/patterns/colors
  • 11" handles drop
  • Adjustable shoulder-strap
  • Multiple interior pockets

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The New Fall 2009 Coach Cambridge Handbag Collection Launches Online

Posted on: Aug 24

Coach knows just how to tease us with pearlized leathers in plum and metallics to get us in the mood for fall when there's still weeks left of summer.

Its new Cambridge Collection, available online now, will hit stores September 1. The collection includes five styles including my favorite: the Cambridge Zip Top Tote in plum shown at right. Other styles include the Alexa, a doctor-bag style in both a fringe and non-fringe version, a zip-tastic foldover clutch and a roomy hobo.

"This upcoming season the collections embrace a broad range of attitudes with a variety of new silhouettes and subdued colors in an array of handbags and accessories. Inspired by the season's inherent sophistication and the many iterations of New York City style, the various collections prove to be innovative and directional. Worn with the perfect cold-weather topper and layers of tough jewelry, the result is sure to be sleekly chic and uniquely modern."

With a downtown sensibility and refined color palette the bags are fashioned out of ultralight pearlized calfskin leather with spectator-inspired contrast trim and burnished amber or gunmetal hardware.

Prices range from $298 for a clutch to $1,200 for the centerpiece Fringe Alexa.

If you want to check out this collection and more fall offerings, Fashion's Night Out September 10 would be the perfect opportunity. Famed graffiti artist Pesu and whimsical, Brooklyn-based illustrator Kiersten Essenpreis are creating completely customized and off the cuff creations at the New York City flagship store on Madison Ave. Both artists will use the limited edition Fashion's Night Out tote as their canvas and will be in store from 7 pm until 10 pm, with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. If you're not near New York, check your local Coach store or luxury department store for Fashion's Night Out activities nationwide.

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Lanvin Kansas Tote Bag | Iconic Black Leather Functional Handbag

Posted on: Aug 1

The season's latest it bags inspire envy, but when it comes to laying money down most of us are more likely to splurge on a classic carryall like the Kansas than the latest fad.

It may not make a lot of waves, but the Kansas is the kind of bag you could carry to work, drinks with the girls, and dinner afterwards. It's stylish but not cutting edge. After all, basic black leather and a dash of silver hardware will never go out of style.

The design is contemporary without pushing the envelope. Belted accents run from the shoulder straps down to the base. A little slouch makes the Kanvas look relaxed, but stops short of appearing sloppy. The Lanvin charm is more than an aesthetic touch, giving us a convenient place to hang our keys so they're always on hand.

It's not just the Kanvas' conservative appearance which makes it an office favorite. It's also cleverly designed, with a large center compartment dividing the bag into three sections. Your cell phone has a place in the sole smaller pouch, but I’m not sure where you'll put your iPod or Nintendo DS!

A purse boasting this heritage and style never comes cheaply, so it's no real surprise that the Kansas clocks in at $2030. Thankfully though, unlike similarly priced it bags, you won't have to replace it any time soon.

More Features of This Lanvin Leather Tote

  • Jacquard fabric lining
  • Two rolled leather straps  with a 7.5 inch drop
  • Measures 10 x 14 x 4 inches

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Coach Op Art Signature Julianne Satchel | Printed Sateen Fabric Handbag

Posted on: Jul 23

This isn't the first Julianne to hit the pages of BagBunch, but it's definitely my favorite. While the Madison leather version of the style is probably the more classic option of the two, the Coach's Op Art fabric option is just too pretty to resist.

I can't possibly call this sateen material practical by any definition of the adjective. An all-white handbag is hardly anything but a decorative accessory. However, it's one that is sure to make a statement.

As with any of the brand's logo-printed bags, this Julianne satchel is easily identifiable as a Coach. Its signature hardware on the front and the serial number printed inside identify the handbag as authentic.

The Op Art Julianne has at least one convenient feature. In addition to the double leather handles with a decent drop length, this tote has a detachable shoulder strap that allows you to carry it across the body as well. I suppose beauty can be at least a little practical sometimes.

More Features of the Op Art Julianne Satchel

  • Measures 12.25 x 12.75 x 4 inches
  • Double handles with 5.75 inch drop
  • Detachable strap measuring 33 inches
  • Zip top closure

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  • Available to buy on eBay (see listings below):
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