Liz Claiborne Crocodile Wristlet | Traditional Vintage-Style Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

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

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Posted in Black, Liz Claiborne, Wristlet | Tell Us What You Think »

B. Makowsky Brasilia E/W Satchel | Croc-Embossed Leather Handbag with Front Pocket

Posted on: Nov 18

Embossed leather is the way to go when you want the look of exotic material without the price tag. Whether using the technique on real leather or manmade material, brands have caught on to the popular trend, and embossed bags of crocodile, ostrich, snakeskin, and more are flooding in.

There are two things about this croc-embossed Brasilia satchel from B. Makowsky that set it apart from some other embossed bag candidates. First, the leather is real and soft, which is a signature of the label but not always the case with other brands. Second, the crocodile texture is somewhat subtle and spread out instead of compact and busy like some embossing.

These two factors, when combined with the Brasilia's other attractive qualities, make for a very decent handbag style. I wouldn't call it a simple design due to the other design features, such as the top corner panels, buckled details, and half-moon front zippered pocket. However, the details together somehow don't overwhelm the style but rather come together in a very appealing way.

The Brasilia is available in this E/W satchel shape as well as a smaller satchel and N/S shopper. This light "vachetta" brown is a nice, neutral choice as are the dark brown and black options, but the deep blue "pacific" color is both pretty and unexpected. This B. Makowsky satchel retails for $278.

More Features of the Brasilia E/W Satchel

  • Measures 16.5 x 10 x 4.5 inches
  • Double handles with 10 inch drop
  • Zip top closure
  • Coin pocket on back
  • Signature leopard-print lining

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B MAKOWSKY BLACK CROCO BRASILIA E W SATCHEL NWTS B MAKOWSKY BLACK CROCO BRASILIA E W SATCHEL NWTS
US $159.99   Paypal
Auction Ends: 24d 23h 5m
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B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT
US $103.50   3 Bids Paypal
Auction Ends: 21h 53m
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Posted in B. Makowsky, Black, Blue, Brown, Satchel, Shopper | Tell Us What You Think »

Necessary Objects Eden Clutch | Affordable Exotic Embossed Synthetic Patchwork Evening Purse

Posted on: Oct 25

They say you should fake it until you make it. If your salary won't stretch to accommodate authentic snakeskin or crocodile, this embossed Necessary Objects clutch is a charming substitute.

Synthetic isn't the most opulent material, but I love the way it's been used here. I've seen embossed leather look far less convincing. The combination of snake and croc scales, not to mention mattes and metallics, could easily look tacky. But the complementary colors save it, creating interest without overwhelming. This olive green, pewter, and silver purse is my favorite, but there are a few more combos if this one doesn't suit.

Pop open the magnetic snap to reveal the playful spotted fabric lining. It's a fairly basic space, but its length is worth mentioning. This allows you to carry a little more than most clutches might, although bulky items are definitely out. You probably won't need your wallet though with a slip pocket tailor-made for carrying your cards. Add a small coin purse and you're good to go.

I'd love to see a shoulder strap for those long nights out, but I'm not surprised there isn't one. Brands can't give us the world for a mere $25 after all.

More Features of This Necessary Objects Patchwork Clutch

  • Measures 11 x 4.25 x 2 inches
  • Made in China

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Posted in Animal Print, Burgundy, Clutch, Green, Mustard, Necessary Objects | Tell Us What You Think »

Lodis Arno Runway Clutch Purse | Affordable Authentic Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Oct 20

Lodis is a brand that knows its niche. It’s not one to take risks, but the label always delivers chic and sophisticated accessories.

That might make the Arno Runway seem like a bit of a misnomer. When I think catwalk I think of cutting edge styles and fashion-forward looks. There's none of that envelope pushing here, so if you're after a head-turner you may be disappointed.

But if you're already a fan of Lodis, or you're simply after an accessory that's traditional and timeless, prepare to be impressed. Just $118 seems like a steal for this genuine leather clutch. The berry-colored calfskin is stamped with exotic crocodile scales. Keeping the scales uneven and irregular gives the purse an authentic air missing in many embossed accessories. I might just be fooled by this one if I didn't know better!

It's not a large purse by any means, but the long, slim design strikes the balance between space and sophistication. Inside you'll find a zippered pocket for loose change and an ID slot for your cards. A magnetic closure beneath the flap keeps your party essentials in order.

In a world of metal-strapped clutches, the leather handle is a godsend. How refreshing to wear a strapless dress to a party and not suffer unsightly chain marks on your shoulder! Speaking of those upcoming parties, this cherry red is positively festive. The Arno Runway is also available in mint green and lilac.

More Features of This Lodis Croc Leather Clutch

  • Fully lined interior
  • A detachable shoulder strap with a 9.5 inch drop
  • Measures 10 x 3 x 4 inches

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Posted in Aqua, Clutch, Lodis, Purple, Red | Tell Us What You Think »

Lauren Merkin Croc Tatum Clutch | Patent Leather Embossed Orange Purse

Posted on: Oct 19

Lauren Merkin purses are red carpet favorites, but with the Tatum she's created a clutch that's more rock and roll than Hollywood glamor.

The secret is the patent leather finish, which is given an extra dose of attitude with bold mock croc embossing. The finish isn't likely to fool anybody into thinking you've snared a genuine exotic, but I'm not sure it's meant to. Rather than imitate the real deal, Lauren Merkin creates a cool, modern texture with her scaly skin. We've seen the Tatum's pleated shape before in raffia, but this modern polished finish makes the purse seem like an entirely different breed!

It's certainly not an oversized clutch, but there’s enough space inside for party essentials. Just be sure not to cram in more than the Tatum can easily carry. The thick patent leather is bound to show bumps and bulges if pushed beyond capacity.

This orange Tatum is the most outrageous of the range, but I think it suits the purse's punk-rock personality. Black has the same rock and roll edge, although it's taken down a notch. If this still screams too loud, you might like to opt for the subdued gray clutch.

More Features of This Lauren Merkin Croc Embossed Clutch

  • Inside zippered pocket
  • Frame closure
  • Signature striped shimmer lining
  • Measures 13.5 x 7 x 2 inches
  • Made in New York City

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Posted in Black, Clutch, Gray, Lauren Merkin, Orange | Tell Us What You Think »

Hype Mia Tote | Large Croc-Embossed Leather North-South Bag

Posted on: Oct 14

It's got a little name, but the Mia tote from Hype is big, bright, and bold!

This larger than life handbag has enough space inside to hold everything you need, and enough style to impress. The finish is billed as crocodile-embossed leather, but nobody is going to believe this is a genuine exotic. The tiny irregular squares appear more like a mosaic than crocodile scales, but perhaps that's okay. This surface may not be a convincing croc, but it's got its own charm that goes beyond mere imitation.

The drawstring adds a casual air, but it's not a very effective closure. It's fiddly to use, and contorts the bag into an overly puckered shape. With a zippered closure providing security back-up, I wonder why the drawstring was included at all!

Zippered pockets in the front add aesthetic and practical appeal. They're deep enough for stashing everything you need at your fingertips. Another slip pocket in the rear provides even more storage space.

And that's before we even get inside. The deep north-south shape is large enough to carry the things we need to survive the day, while a zippered pocket and three multifunctional slips help keep the clutter at bay.

The rolled shoulder straps are probably long enough for most girls to sling over their shoulder, but the removable longer strap provides a little extra versatility. It converts the tote to a cross-body bag, perfect for your daily commute.

With 11 different colors available, there's literally one to suit everybody. Conservative tastes may gravitate towards black or smoke gray, while more daring divas may prefer tango orange or this Aztec blue.

More Features of This Hype Croc Embossed Tote

  • Fully lined interior
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 15 x 14 x 4 inches

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Posted in Aqua, Black, Blue, Brown, Gray, Hype, Orange, Purple, Tote | Tell Us What You Think »

Lucky Magazine and HSN Team Up for Affordable Designer Capsule Collection | Kooba and Rebecca Minkoff Handbags Included

Posted on: Oct 4

While recently flipping through my fresh-from-the-mailbox edition of Lucky magazine, I was excited to find a section about a new fashion collaboration between the brains behind the magazine and the budget-conscious folks at HSN.

Lucky enlisted the help of seven fabulous designers to create exclusive but affordable pieces for a special capsule collection. From jewelry to clothing and handbags, this group of fashion geniuses put together several great outfits.

The list of designers includes Rebecca Taylor, Shoshanna, Tracy Reese, Helen Ficalora, Gerard Yosca, and familiar bag names Rebecca Minkoff and Abbe Held from Kooba. The handbags from Minkoff and Kooba are all stylish, unique, and exactly what I'd expect from the two brands with a mix of croco-embossed leather, studs, and patent material.

The items will be available only through HSN and at Lucky's signature shopping party Lucky Shops in New York City on November 6 and 7. The Lucky Shops: Designer Event is scheduled to air on HSN on October 16 from 8-10 pm (ET) and on October 17 from 8-10 am (ET).

All of the designers will be at the HSN airing along with Lucky's senior editor discussing their items, inspiration, and styling tips.

[Source: HSN]

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Necessary Objects Rocco Clutch | Synthetic Bag with Mix of Faux Exotic Textures

Posted on: Oct 3

If you're shopping for handbags in the under-$50 price range, chances are that you're not expecting real leather. When we're talking about exotic skins like python and crocodile, it's a guarantee that the texture will be embossed or created.

That's why it will probably be no surprise to anyone that this $42 clutch from Necessary Objects is entirely synthetic. What might be unexpected, though, is the amount of faux textures that this one little clutch contains.

I can pick out at least three separate embossed exotic skins on the Rocco Clutch. Snakeskins and croc take on individual roles each in their own color. This version of the clutch features the textures in two distinct colors of blue with dark brown trim. The blend of tones is appealing but also helps to bring together three different voices in the skins, which could otherwise be a disaster.

The handbag has an optional chain and synthetic strap that can be tucked inside when not in use. Personally, I dislike the shiny silver chain link next to the already busy surface of the clutch, but there are times when it would come in handy.

More Features of the Rocco Clutch

  • Measures 12.5 x 6 x 2 inches
  • Optional strap with 8 inch drop
  • Front flap with magnetic closure
  • Patent sheen

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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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Posted in Brown, Elaine Turner, Pochette, Purple, Shoulder Bags | Tell Us What You Think »

Kenneth Jay Lane Ali Shoulder Bag | Crocodile Embossed Leather Bag with Jewel Encrusted Alligator

Posted on: Sep 18

According to Kenneth Jay Lane, kitsch never went out of style. Many would disagree with the design house, but if you don't the Ali may be the shoulder bag you're searching for.

The $290 price tag doesn't buy you authentic crocodile, but it does buy genuine leather. Kenneth Jay Lane gives the calfskin an exotic appeal with its embossed scales. I doubt anyone would mistake this imitation for the real deal, but that doesn't matter. It's still an eye-catching finish, particularly in this croc ice shade.

The reptilian theme is carried on with a cute alligator accent near the base. The silvery creature is studded with large jewels for a little extra bling. It's the sort of feature you're likely to love or hate, and your take on it will probably decide whether you buy this bag or not!

The Ali is a fairly small bag by modern standards, with barely enough space for the essentials. Such a tiny interior needs little to keep you organized, so there's just a slip pocket with a mirror inside. This is such a handy little extra for those emergency cosmetics applications!

The $290 is reasonably priced for a Kenneth Jay Lane bag, making it a decent pick-up for girls willing to take a fashion gamble.

More Features of This Kenneth Jay Lane Alligator Shoulder Bag

  • Flap over entry with hidden magnetic clasp
  • A 48-inch shoulder strap with a 24 inch drop
  • Measures 7 x 1.5 x 5 inches

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Posted in Black, Kenneth Jay Lane, Shoulder Bags, White | Tell Us What You Think »