Straw Studios Woven Basket | Contrasting Snakeskin Retro Clutch

Posted on: Nov 16

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

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Posted in Brown, Clutch, Retro, Straw Studios, Vintage | Tell Us What You Think »

50 Unusually Bold and Bizarre Bags

Posted on: Nov 16

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.
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Burberry Sues Pet Supply Store for Selling Plaid Similar to Label’s Signature Pattern

Posted on: Oct 20

Burberry is taking a cue from fellow designer handbag maker Coach and cracking down on copyright infringement. While Coach has taken action against retailers who are selling styles similar to their own, Burberry is all about protecting its signature checkered pattern.

The British-based company is up in arms about UK pet supply store Pets at Home selling dog coats and baskets in a plaid design close to its own signature plaid. It must have been fairly identical for Burberry to feel that the retail store was violating copyright laws. The legal dispute is currently ongoing, although the items have been taken off the shelves.

It isn't the first time that the company's well-known (though some might call it strikingly basic and easy to imitate) plaid has been sold to consumers, and I'm guessing it won't be the last legal action that Burberry takes regarding the subject. Hopefully this one can be settled out of court.

[Source: Style List]
[Image: Saks Fifth Avenue]

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Forzieri Capaf Wicker Basket | Funky Retro Inspired Straw Handbag

Posted on: Oct 14

Forzieri has produced a cool little handbag with this monochromatic Capaf wicker purse.

The shape, first off, is exciting. Square and chunky, this purse is reminiscent of vintage styling and 60s fashion, all interspersed with memories of picnic baskets and childhood days out. If the nostalgia hasn't sold it to you already, Forzieri brings it up-to-date with the glossy patent leather and oversized square clasp.

Trendy good looks aside, we all know the flaws of wicker handbags. Easily broken, they require looking after. If you care enough, however, then the retro looks can last for a good amount of time. Simply make sure that you don't overstuff them, as the inflexible wicker doesn't take kindly to being battered and abused!

In an unusual design and color combination that is always on trend, Forzieri has really gone all out to make a wicker handbag that stands out from the crowd, even if it only stands out a little! Would you pay over $400 for it though?

More Features of this Forzieri Wicker Basket Bag

  • Straw/wicker Exterior
  • Fabric lined
  • Patent handles and clasp

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Posted in Black, Bucket, Clutch, Retro, Vintage, White | Tell Us What You Think »

Chocolate Wisteria Satchel | Medium Synthetic Basket Weave Bag

Posted on: Sep 24

Woven bags seem to be everywhere, and as the cooler weather takes hold this trend shows no signs of slowing down. While lattice bags are almost common these days, a basket weave purse like this Wisteria satchel dares to be different.

This is one of those synthetic bags which looks like a synthetic bag. The finish is just a little too shiny on the surface, and there isn't the deep liquid gloss we see in a patent. Many won't mind that, but I think for $114 I could find a better leather imitation.

It really depends where your priorities lie. While there are better mimics around, they probably won't have this basket-weave finish. That lovely texture, accented by contrast stitching, is the Wisteria's biggest drawcard.

Not that there aren't other, more practical parts to enjoy. Take the rolled handles, for example, which help busy girls simply grab and go. This Wisteria is one of those rare bags that can comfortably carry the essentials without a lot of unnecessary room. It won't weigh you down, and there are pockets inside and out to keep those must-haves organized.

I can imagine pairing this blue satchel with jeans and a cute T-shirt. The Chocolate Wisteria is also available in mustard, brown, and bone.

More Features of This Chocolate Basket Weave Bag

  • Magnetic closure
  • Nylon signature lining
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 9.5 inches high
  • Made in China

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Posted in Blue, Bone Colored, Brown, Chocolate, Mustard, Satchel | Tell Us What You Think »

Goodhope Wicker Picnic Basket | Fun Functional Vintage Straw Tote

Posted on: Aug 26

Whilst autumn/winter trends may be here for the foreseeable future, I thought one last homage to good old summer was due. This vintage picnic basket is just the sort of fun yet functional summer item that makes those sunny days as fun as possible.

Built in typical retro straw bag style, this Goodhope tote is the epitome of kitsch with its patent red handles and cute gingham lining. At first glance it could be any of the vintage style straw bags that have been so popular this summer.

Of course when you look closer this pretty red tote has plenty of hidden functional extras. Around the outside is a strong outdoors-resistant canvas outer, with 6 pockets for plates and bits and pieces. It is a shame that the pockets don't close to protect your china, and nor does the top seal with anything more than a bow.

That said, this is after all an amalgamation of handbag and picnic basket, with some features of one and some of the other. If you want a casual but pretty gingham bag with some added usefulness, then this brilliant excuse for a picnic will help you along. If you fancy a full blown family outing, however, you may want a bigger bag!

More Features of this Goodhope Wicker Basket

  • 6 exterior canvas pockets
  • 3 interior pockets - 1 zipped
  • Handwoven wheat exterior
  • Retro styling

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Global Elements Layered Purse | Soft Suede Decorative Handbag

Posted on: Aug 14

Global Elements are a little known brand who love to do exciting things with unusual materials. They are also particularly fond of the main decoration technique used in this suede handbag - fabric layering.

A popular theme across many of today's handbags, this trend likes to see luxury materials like this soft red suede cut out and piled one on top of the other. It's visually pleasing, even if the final result in this particular bright shoulder bag is a little bit 90's.

As you can see this Global Elements purse is in an interesting and subtle shade of red. Not as bright as some, but this means that your fiery red handbag can be more suitable for many occasions, and won't clash with your clothes as easily! It is rare that a red bag can be an everyday purse!

What you gain in practicality with this spacious clutch is unfortunately lost in "umph" - that highly technical term that dictates just how much people will love your smooth suede should bag!

To conclude, this layered fashion clutch is a pretty but strangely worn looking purse from a reputable designer. The black wrapped leather handle is cute, even if the overall bag isn't wildly exciting. Essentially this Global Elements decorative handbag is just the right thing for casual day wear.

More Features of this Layered Suede Handbag

  • Available in red, brown, green or black
  • 4" handle drop
  • Contrasting interior

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Michael Kors Newbury Satchel | Large Casual Woven Leather Drawstring Mocha Brown Bag

Posted on: Aug 8

It seems every handbag label worth its salt has a woven leather collection. For Michael Kors it's the Newbury line, a classic basketweave selection with traditional designs and a muted color scheme.

Of course, those conservative shades like mocha and mushroom won't suit everybody. But they share the same classic appeal that woven leather does. The design is classic too, with just a splash of shiny hardware and a little relaxed slouch.

Drawstrings offer security, but they can also make a purse look a touch too casual. Michael Kors solves the problem by keeping the closure hidden inside. When closed the leather gains subtle pleats and loses none of its sophistication. The extra magnetic snap closure may seem superfluous as first, but it's actually an ingenious addition. If the puckered look isn't for you, just use the press stud to keep your goodies safe and sound.

This is the large Newbury satchel, and it lives up to its name with more than generous proportions. There are zip and slip pockets to keep small items in order, and plenty of space for essentials and luxuries alike.

The relatively large weave isn't as delicate as a Bottega Veneta or another high end luxury line. But it's also a whole lot more affordable, at just $548.

More Features of This Michael Kors Woven Satchel

  • Protective metal feet
  • Signature fabric lining
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 18 x 7 x 10 inches
  • Comes with a dust bag

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Bottega Veneta Basket Tote | Slouchy Nappa Leather Foldover Purse

Posted on: Jul 29

Bottega Veneta have kept up their enviably high standards with this surprisingly complex bag in elegant and luxurious nappa leather.

The heavenly softness that nappa leather is famed for is accentuated in this small shoulder bag by the slouchy shape and relaxed foldover clasp. Don't underestimate the shape, however, as the woven design and off-white shading will still manage to catch everyone's attention.

Of course you should expect luxury materials and the very best of design for the price that you pay for Bottega Veneta designer handbags. They rarely clock in at less than $1000, and that is a whole lot of mullah, to coin a gangsta phrase! When it comes to buying handbags this expensive I am always torn between two options.

Option one is choosing a handbag packed with trends and luxury accessories, practically overflowing with keywords and unusual phrases. Option two is going for a simpler bag like this elegant hold-all, which should buck all the trends and keep you in style for years to come. The more sedate option two may not be the right choice for all fashion-bunnies, but if you want a long term purchase this woven leather bag will probably suit.

A beautiful and gentle bag, this soft slouchy purse from real handbag royalty is unlikely to let you down.

More Features of this Bottega Veneta Nappa Purse

  • Adjustable shoulder strap
  • Only available in smooth cream color, with luxurious blue suede interior
  • Bronzed hardware
  • Interior framed mirror

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Posted in Beige, Bottega Veneta, Shoulder Bags | Tell Us What You Think »

Coach Natural Straw Vintage Style Hobo Bag | Fashionable Slouchy Orange Tote

Posted on: Jul 26

One of the best ways to get a top-end designer handbag with a twist is to choose a handbag crafted from unusual yet economical materials. Straw bags are a great idea for this, as the material is cheap yet the designs are very ... well ... designer!

If the vintage style classy straw bag is just your thing, then one of the poshest versions on the market is this slouchy hobo from high end handbag king, Coach. Thanks to the beautiful flexible straw exterior, you can own this tote for $257 rather than the more average Coach price of $500. Economical indeed, and very nice to your bank balance!

The reinforcing leather trim on this summery Coach handbag provides a strong and stylish contrast to the neutral color and texture of the woven straw body. In highly fashionable orange leather, this won't be to everyone's taste, but should coordinate well with plenty of catwalk items in the coming season. Just make sure that you have the right skin tone for it to look good!

The drawback with straw is its tendency to look casual, and this tote with it's over-sized stitching and hardware wouldn't look out of place on a beach or out for lunch. That said, the lovely short handles and slouchy shape mean that it is slightly more night-friendly that other straw hold-alls, even if it isn't quite all glitz and glamour.

A great and unusual choice for a work bag, this stylish hobo will hold all you need in the many interior pockets, all the while providing something a little different (and fashion a little more vintage) to other basket styles on the market.

More Features of this Coach Straw Hobo

  • 3 interior pockets - 1 zip and 2 open top
  • Dimensions: 21" wide 15" tall 4" deep
  • Over-sized brass hardware
  • Soft straw body

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Posted in Coach, Hobo, Orange | Tell Us What You Think »