Big Buddha Mia Handbag | Affordable Synthetic Snakeskin Rose Bag

Posted on: Nov 17

In the tradition of Valentino's Rose handbags comes this more affordable, yet far less luxurious, Big Buddha Mia bag.

If your budget can stretch, I'd pass this one over for the Valentino alternative. While the rose is just as flirty and feminine, the stiff synthetic doesn't fall as softly as an authentic leather would. The snakeskin finish is also a little too garish for this already heavily decorated look. While the colors are sedate, a plain fabric would have made the large ruffled flower appear a little more elegant.

But it's not all bad news. The traditional domed satchel shape maximizes the space available, while pockets inside and out help your belongings stay organized. The curved carrying handles are cute, but they'd be a little awkward to use once your satchel's loaded up. That’s when the longer strap comes into play, allowing you to sling the Mia over your shoulder or across your entire body.

I may prefer the similar Valentino purse, but not everyone can afford to drop a few thousand dollars on a satchel. At just $85 the Mia does a fairly credible impersonation of the more expensive accessory.

More Features of This Big Buddha Rose Handbag

  • Top zip entry
  • Fabric lined interior
  • An interior zip pocket, slide pocket, and cell phone pocket
  • An exterior zip pocket
  • Measures 15 x 5 x 5 inches

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Chinese Laundry Emma Bucket Bag | Large and Slouchy Synthetic Leather Purse with Studs

Posted on: Nov 9

When you're shopping for a decently sized handbag around the $100 mark, finding one made from genuine leather is beginning to be a rarity. There are a few exceptions to that, of course, but brands are mostly sticking to synthetics for that price range.

Though a little disappointing, I suppose it's not entirely surprising considering the size of some of these large handbags. This Chinese Laundry Emma Bucket bag, for instance, would probably cost quite a pretty penny more than $107 if it had been constructed using real pebbled leather instead of a faux leather material.

A leather-like texture can work well on purses, but I'm not sure I'm buying it on this one. The pebbled texture is a nice touch but is unfortunately cheapened a bit by the solid fake leather trim. The studs on the handle and the grommet holes decorating the sides provide a nice distraction from the less than perfect aspects of the Emma Bucket, though.  

Sometimes it's better to opt for true quality over size and get a smaller style made from real leather, but this type of purse is a viable option for when you need a big bag but don't want to spend too much on it. You might not get top quality, you definitely won't be lacking in storage space.

More Features of the Emma Bucket Bag

  • Measures 17 x 14.5 x 7.5 inches
  • Single handle with 10 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Faux leather

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Tory Burch Nico Tote | East-West Style Metallic Pebble Leather Handbag

Posted on: Nov 1

Tory Burch has amped up the glam factor with this metallic Nico tote.

It seems to be inspired by Andy Warhol's muse, but I can't imagine the Velvet Underground singer carrying anything quite this ostentatious. The boxy design is simple enough, and Tory Burch has been careful to keep the accents to a minimum, but there's no getting away from that bold gold finish. Despite the lack of bells and whistles, you'll need confidence to carry off such a head-turning look.

The decorative details may be pared back, but they're still there. Vertical banding helps to break up the expanse of shiny pebbled leather. The T-shaped gold hardware near the dual handles is a subtle nod to their designer. Heaven knows, the Nico needs all the subtlety it can get!

The interior is pleasantly practical, with a zippered pocket and two multifunctional slips helping to keep the roomy space in order. A zipper would have provided a little more security than the magnetic snap, but it does the job to the best of its ability. If you're really concerned about safety, you can always keep your valuables in the zippered pocket after all.

If you'd prefer something a little demure than this glitzy gold number, the Nico is also available in basic black.

More Features of This Tory Burch Gold Tote

  • Protective metal feet on the base
  • Fully lined interior
  • Dual leather and gold straps with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 15.5 x 3.5 inches

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Big Buddha Nolita Shoulder Bag | Faux Suede Purse with Studs and Tassels

Posted on: Oct 30

Big Buddha hits multiple bag trends with this new stylish Nolita Shoulder Bag. From the overall shape to the details, this purse has a handful of features going for it.

The Nolita is available in quite a few color options, but this rich purple is a great pop of color for the fall. It's my favorite of the bunch, although the bright blue and olive green should get an honorable mention as well for their vibrant tones.

I'd prefer if the material on this shoulder bag were genuine suede, but Big Buddha's manmade version is quite acceptable and much more palatable for the wallet since the Nolita only retails for $90. The faux material isn't overly noticeable, too, since the purse has a very slouchy silhouette with a drawstring top creating tons of gathers around the body.

The other trendy details on this Big Buddha design include the studs scattered throughout the front and on the sides of the handbag. As usual, it's a shame that the feature isn't included on the back of the bag, though this certainly wouldn't be the first brand to leave out that detail. Fun tassels hang from either side of the drawstring top and give the Nolita a nicely finished appearance.

More Features of the Nolita Shoulder Bag

  • Measures 19 x 11 x 5 inches
  • Single strap with 9.75 inch drop
  • Magnetic closure
  • Drawstring detail on top

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Nine West Vintage America Cindy Hobo | Chic and Contemporary Western Suede Bag

Posted on: Oct 25

Nine West's recently released Vintage America collection is all about classic American style and timeless fashion combined with a little of today's trends. That's exactly how I'd describe this Cindy hobo bag from the line.

Its traditional hobo silhouette is both classic and predictable, yet some interesting details take the Cindy to a different level. It might be simple in design and have clean lines, but it sure isn't boring.

The braided detail that runs down the sides of the handbag has a definite Western feel to it. However, there's a contemporary twist to it with the addition of some trendy studs.

The soft, gray suede also adds to the chic flair of the Cindy. The color is understated in such a way that allows the other features of the purse to stand out. The Western Americana vibe could have been taken a little too literally if it were in dark brown or tan instead, but the gray is the perfect balance to the style.

Knotted handles and textured leather trim finished off this Nine West design. The casual Cindy hobo bag retails for $189.

More Features of the Cindy Hobo

  • Measures 18.5 x 8.5 x 2 inches
  • Single strap with 7 inch drop
  • Zip top closure

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Big Buddha Mari Hobo | Casual Fabric and Faux Leather Handbag

Posted on: Oct 21

The Mari Hobo bag is part of Big Buddha's fall 2009 collection, but I have to admit that I'm a bit confused by its placement there. It's not that I dislike the design. I'm just not sure it's totally fall-worthy with its fabric body.

That being said, the style of the Mari Hobo is very appealing. With the majority of the handbag in fabric and the trim on the handles and the sides in synthetic leather-like material, there's a nice blend of texture and a definite air of casual and contemporary chic to this Big Buddha bag.

I'm not in love with the contrasting stitching on the front of this beige version. It's a little strange that such an eyecatching detail isn't continued on the back of the hobo. However, that isn't a factor if you choose the dark black color instead, which would probably be a better choice anyway as far as hiding dirt on the fabric.

Like basically any of Big Buddha's designs, the Mari Hobo is decently priced at just $90. I wouldn't call it an extremely versatile purse since the fabrics and slouchy look limit you to casual outfits, but it's a great affordable option for a simple but stylish accessory.

More Features of the Mari Hobo

  • Measures 16.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches
  • Double handles with 7.5 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Fabric and faux leather material

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Big Buddha Soho Handbag | Soft Fringed Hobo Bag with Studded Tassels

Posted on: Sep 30

Big Buddha gives the hobo a contemporary makeover with the Soho.

It features two of fall's biggest trends: fringe and pyramid studs. Yet by keeping the accents in check, the look is timeless rather than faddish. The fringing is short, ensuring the purse never looks like it's just stepped from the South. The gleaming pyramid studs also make the purse appear more rock and roll than rodeo.

The Soho has the sort of looks to suit everyday use, and the practical perks to back it up. The suede-like handle is long and soft, ideal for slinging over your shoulder and forgetting as you attend to errands. Plenty of pockets inside the generous interior space complement the handy zippered pocket on the back of the bag.

This purple Soho bag is ideal for fall, but if you're after for a more evergreen look consider this hobo in blue, yellow, or brown. With six different tones available, there's bound to be one to suit you!

More Features of This Big Buddha Fringed Hobo

  • Made of suede-like material
  • Top zip entry
  • Satiny lining
  • An interior zipper pocket, slide pocket, and cell phone pocket inside
  • Measures 18.5 x 4.5 x 10.5 inches

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Big Buddha Sedona Shoulder Bag | Large Synthetic Handbag with Zippers and Woven Details

Posted on: Sep 26

Big Buddha is always a brand that comes to mind when I'm looking for an affordable but trendy handbag. There are, of course, many other fashion labels that serve one or both of those needs, but I know I can count on Big Buddha for a cute purse that costs less than $100.

You can't really expect lambskin leather or supple suede in that price range, but the details and designs are where the brand gets it so right. The Sedona Shoulder bag fits right in with its trusty style.

There are several things going on with the Sedona, but somehow I'm not overwhelmed by it all. Maybe that's because the details are spread out over the bag's large size. It's right on trend with woven details and slightly angled, zippered pockets. The pockets flank vertical strips of the weaving on the front, but unfortunately it's only the woven detail that continues on the back of the purse. I'm just glad to see that the back isn't completely bare of detail like so many other bags out there.

The Sedona is supported by slim double handles. At first glance, I thought they seemed a little small in proportion to the size of the bag. However, shorter, chunkier straps might have contrasted too much with the delicate look of the weaving. Unless you plan to carry some seriously heavy gear in this Big Buddha handbag, I think the handles will do just fine.

More Features of the Sedona Shoulder Bag

  • Measures 17.5 x 9.75 x 4 inches
  • Double handles with 7.5 inch drop
  • Sunken zipper closure
  • Interior zippered pocket
  • Synthetic material

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Big Buddha Rosy Shoulder Bag | Fabric Handbag with Contemporary Floral Print

Posted on: Jul 20

I've come to learn not to expect any certain style from Big Buddha. They've got everything from snakeskin to straw purses, but I have to admit that this Rosy shoulder bag took me by surprise a bit.

Floral is one look I haven't seen from them, though I know I'm not familiar with all of Big Buddha's styles. Their version of floral, however, isn't what you might have in mind. This is no Kate Spade tote covered in lilies. The Rosy's pattern is much more contemporary and even abstract in design.

In bright orange with a gray background, the printed fabric really pops. Most of the handbag is constructed from fabric, but it is trimmed in synthetic leather with silver-toned hardware.

Although it's considered midsized, the Rosy is quite a decent size in my opinion. There's plenty of room in the slouchy, lined interior with its obligatory zippered pocket. If you're looking for a casual, everyday tote under $100, this Big Buddha bag is one to consider.

More Features of the Rosy Shoulder Bag

  • Measures 19 x 11 x 5 inches
  • Double handles with 9 inch drop
  • Zipper closure with clasp detail

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Big Buddha Teri Bucket Bag | Affordable Green Mottled PVC Purse with Belted Accent

Posted on: Jul 16

Big Buddha shows us that a global recession is no excuse to skimp on style with the adorable Teri bucket bag.

But of course, when a handbag costs only $70 there are going to be compromises made. In this case it's the finish. PVC is never as durable or luxurious as patent leather, but at least it has all the gloss in the short term. And the mottled green texture applied here is so appealing, it's almost worth the sacrifice.

That dappled design doesn't need any distraction, so Big Buddha keeps the style simple. A belted accent up top, some well-placed seams, and a smattering of studs provide just enough decoration to keep things interesting.

The interior's fairly basic for such a big bag, so I'm thankful for the exterior pockets. They're discreetly placed at the sides, so they don't interfere with the Teri's sleek lines. However they do provide a handy place for stashing the essentials like a cell phone, lip gloss, and keys.

Like so many purses in this price bracket, the Teri has its shortcomings. But it also displays an awful lot of style.

More Features of This Big Buddha Bucket Bag

  • Magnetic closure
  • A zippered pocket inside
  • Dual handles with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 12 x 8 inches
  • Made in China

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