Carlos Falchi's exotic skin designs are something to behold. His multiple decades of fashionable handbags were even commemorated earlier this year at Bergdorf Goodman.

Despite his celebrated fashions and established status, the current economy has taken a toll on nearly every luxury company's sales. This along with other past financial mistakes has spurred Falchi to attempt a resurgence by appealing to a different clientele without losing a well-deserved standing in the fashion world.

Carlos Falchi's personal insight into his past and present situation can be discovered in a recent piece by The New York Times. The article traces back to his beginnings in the industry, describes his recent budget-friendly appeal with lines for Target and HSN, and even some lifestyle insight from his own wife.

As gregarious as Mr. Falchi is — he helped many designers create their accessories — he isn't a regular at industry events. "In order to have a family life, he needs downtime," Ms. Falchi said. With a laugh, she added: "Let's be very clear — Carlos has burned the candle at both ends. He didn't need a reason to go to Studio 54."

Read more from the article about Falchi's life and designs on The New York Times' website.

[Source: NY Times]
[Image: HSN]

Carlos Falchi Handbags on eBay

GORGEOUS CARLOS FALCHI DRAWSTRING BUCKET HANDBAG PURSE US $129.00   Auction Ends: 5d 21h 59m Make it yours...

Carlos Falchi for Target New US $29.99   Auction Ends: 17d 22h 21m Make it yours...

Carlos Falchi for Target New US $24.99   Auction Ends: 17d 22h 23m Make it yours...

If you are a fan of Goldenbleu's striped handbags, such as the delightful miniature Andy purse, then their Tyler clutch will be just the thing to further your collection.

This spacious clutch harks back to a time of glossy patent leather and structured stylized interiors. The color schemes (a sophisticated navy/plum combo, or a bold and bright red/gold theme) are all based around "Studio 54" just with a "modern spin." I couldn't agree more; this is a retro styled purse that fits perfectly in a 21st century wardrobe.

This little evening bag is dressy enough to keep you smart even with jeans and (god forbid) trainers. It even keeps the theme going with its Goldenbleu monogram lining, one of my favorite features of these handbags. Its matte gray fabric coordinates brilliantly with the patent exterior.

Unfortunately this is one of the real clutches that live up to their names; you have to "clutch" it, as you don't have the option of a handle. It's a shame, but this bag should be light enough to be manageable.

More Features of this Goldenbleu Tyler Clutch

• Leather, patent and suede exterior
• Zippered interior pocket
• Available in two color schemes

See Goldenbleu Clutches on eBay

GOLDENBLEU Metallic Fringe Leather Clutch Bag Purse NEW US $210.00   Auction Ends: 27d 22h 50m Make it yours...

NEW GRAFFITI GOLDENBLEU MERCEDES PATENT LEATHER CLUTCH US $119.99   Auction Ends: 27d 21h 59m Make it yours...

Also See

• Click here to see this sexy patent purse on Amazon
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Next week an exciting new handbag store will officially open its doors in Cranleigh, United Kingdom. At Exchange @ Easton Design Studio, fashionistas can trade in their used purses for brand new bags from the Easton Collection.

Customers receive a trade-in price for their current bag, which they use against the value of a new purse, much like trading in a car.  Just like a car, the trade-in value depends on the condition and the mileage!

"Although we sell many different handbag brands, with prices from just £18 for a fashion handbag, we still get customers who don't come in because they think we only sell 'expensive' designer handbags," explained store owner Shona Easton. "Exchange @ Easton Design Studio will offer our customers a great range of quality secondhand items at really affordable prices, which we hope will be particularly helpful in the current economic climate."

To celebrate the launch on 4 June, every customer who buys a part-exchange bag during the month has the chance to win a designer Easton bag, worth £95.

What a great store concept to help fashion fans update their looks for less!

[Source: PR.com]
[Image Source: Easton Design Studio]

Preloved Purses on eBay

Coach Penelope Denim Hobo F13291 PreLOVED US $50.00   5 Bids Auction Ends: 9h 16m Make it yours...

FOSSIL SATCHEL STYLE LEATHER HANDBAG CLEAN PRELOVED US $4.99   1 Bid Auction Ends: 1d 40m Make it yours...

Ladies HandbagPrelovedDooney and BourkeNice conditio US $24.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 1d 4h 41m Make it yours...

Inspired by New York's hottest disco comes the Kathy Van Zeeland Studio 54 Nappa Belt shopper. With its glamorous metallic body and effortlessly slouchy cool, it's not hard to see how it got its name!

The soft synthetic body is available in sexy metallic bone or classic white. Both neutral shades are given a lift with bold gold belt accents and shiny hardware. The centerpiece is a wide metallic belt, which cinches the top of the bag shut. In the center it sports a Kathy Van Zeeland plaque decorated with dazzling rhinestones and a crown and heart design.

Pop open the magnetic closure to reveal the deep interior. A zippered back wall pocket and two slip pouches help you stay organized all day. Don’t feel like rummaging through your bag for those must-have items? No problem! Dual side slip pockets are a convenient place for stashing the goodies you need at your fingertips.

Whether you're hitting the dance floor, or simply catching up with the girls, this Kathy Van Zeeland shopper makes it easy to add some diva style to your outfit.

More Features of This Kathy Van Zeeland Nappa Belt Handbag

• Logo print lined interior
• Dual shoulder straps with an 8.5 inch drop
• Measures 10 x 14 x 4 inches
• Made in China

Kathy Van Zeeland Studio 54 Shoppers on eBay

NEW KATHY Van Zeeland GRAPE Studio 54 Belt Shopper US $54.98   Auction Ends: 9d 20h 1m Make it yours...

NEW KATHY Van Zeeland BLUE Studio 54 Belt Shopper KEY US $30.00   18 Bids Auction Ends: 7h 38m Make it yours...

Also See

• Click here to view this Kathy Van Zeeland metallic belted bag at Endless
• All Kathy Van Zeeland bags on eBay