Bulgari has gone back to the vault to celebrate its 125th anniversary. The Italian luxury brand has revived classic collections – the Doppio Tondo, Leoni, Collezione 1910, and Twist – but given them modern makeovers.

The Doppio Tondo line retains the distinctive double overlapped round metallic rings engraved with the double "Bulgari" logo. These double rings take inspiration from the infinite loop, reminding us of the classic styling the brand represents. The wine red and forest green shades are new though, the jewel tones ideal for the cooler weather ahead.

We see the double logo again in the Twist, although this time it's printed on a duo of medallions. This season the line has a more relaxed feel thanks to the drawstring closure.

The Leoni bags are also a little more casual this time around, with their rounded corners. The original handles and clasps have also been moved to the center of the purse for a bold new look.

The Collezione 1910 hearkens back to the year the first Bulgari store opened in Rome. The collection features the brand's original Art Nouveau style advertisement printed on leather, oiled linen, or cotton canvas. Calfskin trimmings and handles add a little luxury to the less decadent fabrics, while the leather receives a special treatment for everyday use.

The retro Bulgari bags aren't cheap, with the leather purses clocking in at a few thousand a piece, but the classic styles might be worth a splurge.

[Source: Inquirer Lifestyle]
[Image Source: Bulgari]

New Bulgari Bags on eBay

New White BVLGARI Parfums Clutch Hand Bag US $20.00   Auction Ends: 11d 15m Make it yours...

NEW Bvlgari Handbag Amber w Gold LogoStrap and Box US $199.00   0 Bid Auction Ends: 2d 56m Make it yours...

New White BVLGARI Parfums TRAVEL Hand Bag US $2.50   5 Bids Auction Ends: 2d 2h 1m Make it yours...

It's hard to believe that any high fashion designer would draw inspiration from the world of sports, but that's exactly what got Alexander Wang motivated for his new Spring 2010 collection that was recently revealed on the catwalk: football.

Instead of tough, edgy, and majorly studded, this new line is sporty chic with an almost vintage-ish feel. When viewing images of the whole collection at once, I can't help but think of the recent 1920s-era George Clooney football film Leatherheads. I have no idea if Alexander Wang was thinking along those lines, but I can't help but see some similarities, though there's a definite modern take to the collection.

The most obvious display of the inspiration, in my opinion, can be seen on one of the new spring handbags. The Brady Football Clutch actually looks like a pigskin, just with a little decorative topstitching and a zipper running across the middle. It's quirky, which I'd expect from the designer, and a little odd, but I actually like it when combined with the other looks from the collection.

See a preview of Alexander Wang's Spring 2010 bags and shoes at Refinery 29.

[Source: Refinery 29]

Alexander Wang Handbags on eBay

NWT ALEXANDER WANG DONNA WASHED OUT BLACK DENIM HOBO US $1,699.99   Auction Ends: 29d 11h 24m Make it yours...

NEW AUTHENTIC Alexander Wang Coco Duffle Bag black US $550.00   14 Bids Auction Ends: 2h 16m Make it yours...

ALEXANDER WANG DONNA BLACK DENIM LEATHER HOBO BAG US $495.00   1 Bid Auction Ends: 2h 18m Make it yours...

This Whiting & Davis design is truly a unique find. With its combination of texture, material, and vibrant color, the Lizzy Clutch makes for one fun, little evening bag.

The overall silhouette is fairly typical for a clutch. However, the structured and geometric v-shaped closure and bottom panel that meet in the middle combined with slightly gathered panels on the sides provides an interesting contrast.

It's the use of material that makes the Lizzy stand out, though. The sides are constructed with Whiting & Davis' signature metal mesh that gives the brand its undeniable vintage vibe. When that mesh meets up with lizard-embossed leather, however, the design takes on an appealing contemporary twist.

You can get the Lizzy Clutch in a neutral silvery gray, but the turquoise and hot pink choices definitely have more personality and really set of the contrasting textures. Plus, the pop of color is right on trend for cocktail parties and other dressy events this season. This Whiting & Davis handbag retails for $150.

More Features of the Lizzy Clutch

• Measures 10.5 x 5.75 x 9 inches
• Flap with snap closure
• Optional chain strap

Get this Whiting & Davis Lizzy Bag:

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

NEW Whiting and Davis Lizzy V Flap Clutch Hot Pink US $150.00   Auction Ends: 2d 23h 27m Make it yours...

NEW Whiting and Davis Lizzy V Flap Clutch Oyster US $150.00   Auction Ends: 2d 23h 27m Make it yours...

• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Whiting & Davis bags on BagBunch
• The Steve Madden Cookie Wristlet, a great alternative to this turquoise clutch.
• Searching for more Whiting & Davis clutches on eBay

This Liz Claiborne wristlet brings posh and sophisticated class to an unusual shape.

Crocodile print, with its spacious pattern, is generally saved for bigger purses and vintage bags. To see it being used surprisingly effectively for a little clutch is a great change.

The styling of this wristlet is very vintage. Whilst wrist straps weren't common back then, everything else is so retro: the big gold buckle, the glossy patent leather. It is both evening wear and smart office wear, and brilliantly versatile.

I have to say that personally I am not convinced by the alternate bag color, branded "matte gold". Rather than being glamorous and mature, this color actually looks more murky dull brown. Not nice! In black it looks great though!

Whilst the looks of this bag are expensive, the materials aren't. And understandably so; you are only paying $40 for this, after all. With this in mind, however, and especially considering the thinness of the handle, I wouldn't hold out for this vintage clutch to last for many seasons. It is even less likely to last with all the wear it may just get!

More Features of this Liz Claiborne Traditional Wristlet

• Available in gold or black
• Patent leather exterior
• Gray interior
• Convertible strap

Get this Crocodile Print Clutch:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Liz Claiborne bags on BagBunch
• The Necessary Objects Eden clutch, a great alternative to this snakeskin bag.
• Searching for more crocodile print bags on eBay
• Other Liz Claiborne bags on eBay:

Liz Claiborne Camel Color Purse Organizer Bag US $4.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 34m Make it yours...

Liz Claiborne Doctor Bag US $16.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 50m Make it yours...

Gucci has always been vigilant to crack down on counterfeiting and trademark infringement, but now they're taking a new angle on brand protection. This time, however, they aren't fighting the fight alone.

Legendary auction house Christie's is teaming up with the luxury brand to provide a "trusted venue for transactions of vintage Gucci items," according to Gucci's chief executive Patrizio di Marco who was quoted in a recent New York Times article. By the end of this year, Christie's will have a section on their website solely dedicated to helping appraisals of vintage Gucci goods.

The "Gucci Collector" section of the site will allow users to upload images of their items, which will then be evaluated and appraised by a bonafide Gucci archivist.

"I feel it is a noble, appropriate and modern way to provide access to original Gucci vintage products to a relevant and well-targeted audience," said Mr. di Marco.

[Source: NY Times]
[Image: Qiao-Da-Ye/Flickr]

Gucci Handbags on eBay

GOLD GUCCI TOTE US $275.00   Auction Ends: 15m Make it yours...

Gucci tote handbag US $175.00   Auction Ends: 16m Make it yours...

Vogue Gucci Purse with Signature Fabric US $41.00   9 Bids Auction Ends: 24m Make it yours...

Guess has gone all out with this tiny little clutch to make it as delicate, feminine and girly as possible, and the brand may just have achieved its ambitions.

By keeping this clutch as a mini bag, Guess have avoided making this bag an over-the-top pink nightmare. In small doses, and with a well-planned outfit, this could actually look pretty and stylish.

Pink aside, the cute looks of this bag are adorable. The bow is structural and strangely origami, and acts as a great focal point for a simple square looking bag. You then have the bow in combination with the subtle yet textured crocodile or snakeskin pattern leather.

Of course, this bag is very pink, and this bag is very small. But if you need a cute little evening bag that will look just as good with jeans as it will with a vintage outfit, then this might be the saccharine sweet purse for you.

More Features of this Guess Lulin Clutch:

• Also available in Ivory
• Vinyl leather
• Crocodile print exterior
• Single interior pocket

Get this Feminine Bow Mini-Bag:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Guess bags on BagBunch
• The Betsey Johnson Bowdacious satchel, a great alternative to this kitsch bag.
• Searching for more crocodile print bags on eBay
• More Guess bags on eBay;

GUESS GOLD CLEAR TOTE HANDBAG PURSE SHOULDER BAG US $9.99   1 Bid Auction Ends: 21m Make it yours...

EUC GUESS BLACK CROCODILE PATERN HANDBAG PURSE LOOK US $19.99   0 Bid Auction Ends: 31m Make it yours...

I am always on the lookout for a brilliant little piece of handbag art, and this synthetic leather and straw clutch is one of my favorite recent finds.

A cute straw basket bag always goes down well in vintage and retro inspired circles. The effect is especially strong when you have a piece like this, which adds flare and a fashion twist with the addition of a snakeskin faux leather buckle and trim.

Although the looks are downright stunning and so individual, there are a few limitations that can't be avoided. Firstly, looks aren't everything, and although the bag costs $63 you don't get any decent materials. The leather is thin and fake, and the straw wicker won't last beyond a few seasons. If you are seeking a unique handbag that will last you for life, this Straw Studios purse probably won't cut the mustard.

If your expectations are slightly lower, however, then this funky clutch with its paisley lining will do you fine, whether for wearing in the sun next summer or for dressing up a vintage evening outfit.

More Features of this Straw Studios Vintage Clutch

• Paisley interior lining
• Available in brown or black
• Optional chain handle

Get this Retro Woven Purse:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More straw bags on BagBunch
• The Magid straw and patent tote, a great alternative to this basket bag
• Searching for more straw bags on eBay
• Other Straw Studios bags on eBay:

Straw Studios pink tan trimmed straw clutch bag purse N US $8.99   Auction Ends: 27d 5h 53m Make it yours...

NEW Straw Studios Saima Shoulder Bag Black US $40.00   Auction Ends: 12d Make it yours...

To me, there's just something special about a high quality leather purse or bag. They are traditional, durable and never go out of style. However, not everyone is satisfied with commonplace purses and some like to carry standout handbags that are far from ordinary. Here's a look at 50 bags that stray from the beaten path. Love them or hate them, there is no denying that they are unique. Each is made with rather unusual materials, or fashioned to look like something it is not. As you'll see, this type of creativity in design produces purse styles ranging from cute to tragic.

Farm Animal in Chaps

[Image Source]

This lovely purse was spotted at TJ Maxx. No idea what look designer Diane Gail was going for, but there's no doubt that she nailed "Farm Animal Wearing Chaps" with this one. Not sure if the pattern of the animal hide was lined up this way on purpose, but it reminds me of that one bad night I had at a Biker Bar with a cow.
Read the rest of this entry »

Bally ups the sophistication factor of the traditional hobo with the Keli.

The crescent shape and relaxed form are pure vintage hobo, but there's a certain chicness here missing from those classic purses. This one's much more uptown girl than flower child, making it a more versatile choice for most fashionistas. The nappa leather and pleats bring that sophistication, while emphasizing that casual slouch.

I do worry about how sophisticated a purse of this size will look slung over a shoulder though. There's always the risk of overwhelming your frame with an oversized bag, and this one definitely fits that description. But at least there's the space to carry everything you need, and a few things you don't!

I'd have appreciated a few more color options, but it's hard to argue with the appeal of basic black. In this classic shade you could easily pair the Keli with a power suit during the day before toting it to the bar for a few martinis afterwards!

More Features of This Bally Pleated Hobo

• Jacquard lined interior
• Zip top closure
• A single shoulder strap with a 5.5 inch drop
• Measures 9.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches
• Comes with a dust bag
• Made in Italy

Get this Bally Keli Handbag:

• Available to buy at Endless
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Bally bags on BagBunch
• The Stuart Weitzman Ruche hobo bag, a great alternative to this pleated bag.
• Searching for more Bally bags on eBay
• Other pleated hobo bags on eBay:

Red Woven Pleated Rhinestone Accent Big Clutch Hobo Bag US $24.50   0 Bid Auction Ends: 2h 5m Make it yours...

Black Gathered Pleated Oversized Hobo Shoulder Bag NWT US $25.00   2 Bids Auction Ends: 2h 35m Make it yours...

Steve Madden goes more than a little bit disco with this brilliantly bright and studded wristlet.

It is nice to see a wristlet that is a decent size. They tend to be tiny, and sometimes it is good to have one that can fit more than a little cash and a tiny phone. Even better, this studded clutch still has that useful wristlet handle, making it easy to carry on a big night out.

The studs are great for the 80s trend that still seems to be sweeping the catwalk, although the look would be more vintage if the leather was black. As it is, the turquoise fabric brings the purse thoroughly up to date, even if it will coordinate with fewer outfits than black would!

The turquoise theme is carried on inside, but in a satin fabric. Unfortunately there is no convenient concealed strap to make life easier, but the smart materials and geometric stud work mean that if you like the looks you will make the effort to carry it around!

More Features of this Steve Madden Cookie Clutch

• Faceted square decoration
• Leather exterior
• Matching satin lining

Get this Studded Leather Wristlet:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Steve Madden bags on BagBunch
• The Whiting & Davis mesh stud clutch, a great alternative to this disco bag
• Searching for more studded bags on eBay
• More Steve Madden bags on eBay:

Womens Brand New Steve Madden Black Clutch Bag US $10.49   2 Bids Auction Ends: 1h 12m Make it yours...

Rare Steve Madden Fire Engine Red Patent Tote Bag US $45.00   0 Bid Auction Ends: 3h 6m Make it yours...