Bulgari Goes Vintage for 125th Anniversary | New Handbags Inspired by Classic Designs

Posted on: Nov 21

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]

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Carlos Falchi for Target Satchel | Affordable Large Green Faux Snakeskin Bag

Posted on: Nov 20

Carlos Falchi has captured his signature style for less with this satchel, part of his capsule collection for department store Target.

Of course, to make this purse so affordable there are compromises made. There's not a hint of genuine python in the snakeskin collage body. The glossy finish probably gives that away, but by keeping the colors dark the design doesn't look quite as tacky as it could have. The combination of black, forest green, and charcoal gray PVC is striking and ideal for winter weather. And let's not forget, while real leather shows stains quickly PVC simply wipes clean.

The interior has a much lighter look with its colorful fabric lining. I love the way the Target logo is subtly incorporated into the whimsical printed polyester. The generous space is organized better than most bags in this price bracket, with a cell phone slip, zip pocket, a sunglasses pouch and a key ring holder. You'll also find another zippered pocket on the outside of the bag, just in case you were running out of storage options!

The shape isn't very inspired and the fabrics not very luxurious, but this satchel definitely has the Carlos Falchi stamp. And for just $50, it's an affordable alternative to the designer's high-end accessories.

More Features of This Carlos Falchi for Target Bag

  • Zip top closure
  • A single shoulder strap
  • Measures 14 x 4 x 15 inches

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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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50 Unusually Bold and Bizarre Bags 31-40

Posted on: Nov 16

Rubik's Cube Handbag

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The popularity of the Rubik's Cube has endured for decades. Many variations and sizes of the puzzle have been produced over the years and now you can show your love for the boxy classic with this purse. The colors are young and fun if you're looking for something spunky to spice up a simple outfit or to make a statement with accessories.

Batwing Bag

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Rubber bat wings have never been as functional or attractive as they are when crafted into a purse. Especially with the super hero fever that has hit our culture recently, this accessory would be a great addition to any fan's collection. Classic black will allow wear for many occasions and it's also perfect for Halloween, to conceal all those candies with.
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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

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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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Financial Crisis Forces Luella’s Closure, Inspiring Twitter Fan Outpouring

Posted on: Nov 12

Critical acclaim and a celebrity following are no insurance for surviving the global recession. Just ask Luella Bartley! The Designer of the Year at the 2008 British Fashion Awards has been forced to close down her Luella label following the loss of one of its main suppliers.

Luella's Italian production company Carla Carini shut down last month. This means that the orders for Luella's spring/summer 2010 collection could not be completed. This inspired VSQ, the company in charge of the brand's distribution, to withdraw its support.

The decision to close down operations is a blow for Luella's fans, which include fashionable young Britons like Alexa Chung, Lily Allen, and Pixie Geldof. But Ms Bartley says we shouldn't count her out just yet. She is currently exploring options to take the label forward.

She's got the support of online fans, who are expressing their Luella love by adding a "Save Luella" banner to their Twitter avatars. I'm not sure whether anyone with clout will listen to the cyber outpouring, but only time will tell!

[Source: Luxist]
[Image Source: Luella]

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Daisy Lowe and Lara Stone to Model for Upcoming Louis Vuitton Ad Campaigns

Posted on: Nov 10

The news buzzing around Louis Vuitton's future advertising campaigns right now is that Madonna is out to make way for some fresh faces. The European style pre-fall starring with Missy Rayder were a hint of this change in direction, but the recently confirmed faces of the luxury brand are even more of a shift.

Following in some famous footsteps including Madonna, Naomi Campbell, and other recognizable faces is edgy new "it" model Lara Stone. The Dutch beauty is set to star in the label's upcoming spring/summer 2010 campaign.

Stone isn't the only hip, twenty-something model chosen by Louis Vuitton, however. Young but experienced Daisy Lowe will also star in upcoming ads for the brand. The previous face of Marc by Marc Jacobs will be starring in a sexy shoot showcasing LV's ready-to-wear spring/summer 2010 beachwear range that will also include shoes, bags, and accessories.

Though there's no word yet on particular themes for the upcoming photo shoots, both are guaranteed to be interesting and possibly provide a much-needed infusion of excitement for Louis Vuitton.

[Source: My Fashion Life]
[Image: Models.com]

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10 Geek Inspired Handbags

Posted on: Nov 9

The following array of 10 gadget-riddled handbags are so cool even male geeks will want their hands on one of them.

1. Purse with Built-In Nintendo System and Controllers

nintendo handbag

Amazing! This handbag is one of the geekiest I’ve ever seen in my whole life. It is a handbag complete with built in Nintendo Entertainment System including a controller that is attached to the outside with Velcro. It's a mod composed of an LCD from portable a DVD player and one of those NES on chip mods. The handbag certainly has a geek chic look about it.

[Source]

2. Internal Lights for Your Handbag

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Often the contents of a woman's handbag is a mystery; even to the owner. However with this solar powered handbag finding what’s in the bottom of your bag is a doddle.

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Alexander Wang Tina Bag | Cream Leather Handbag with Zippered Pockets

Posted on: Nov 9

Alexander Wang is one of those designers who rarely gets it wrong. His 1980s inspired accessories somehow combine the current taste for retro goodies with classic fashion sensibilities. Perhaps it's the absence of fluorescent hues and outlandish designs which help Alexander Wang's bags stand the test of time.

The Tina Zip Clutch is in keeping with Alexander Wang’s signature style. While it's called a clutch, its large size makes it a little ungainly for hand-held carrying. Thankfully the purse can easily convert to a cross-body bag by attaching the luxuriously long strap. The Tina makes the most of its supersized appearance with plenty of pockets for maximum storage potential.

Security is the name of the game, with all exterior pockets closing with shiny silver zips. The hardware adds a little attitude, although this cream-colored purse never appears too rock and roll. If you'd prefer a little more edge, consider the black or denim blue Tinas.

While it doesn't have the bad girl appeal of the others, I think this more virginal Tina is the best showcase for the pebbly textured finish. It just begs to be touched! Of course, you'll have to keep this pale-colored purse away from red wine and dirty motorcycles. That creamy shade is guaranteed to show stains if it's not handled with care.

Like so many Alexander Wang bags, the Tina is relatively affordable at $590.

More Features of This Alexander Wang Pocket Purse

  • An inside pocket
  • Zip top closure
  • A detachable strap with an 18 inch drop
  • Measures 11.5 x 9 inches

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Eenamaria “Every Queen Needs One” Sixties Purse | Bright Contrasting Chelsea Boi Clutch

Posted on: Nov 7

Sometimes little known handbag designers can produce a great looking purse. The quality may not be the same as legendary fashion-houses, but this reasonably priced bag can bring a dose of bold 60s goodness to your look.

In my humble opinion 60s fashion, with its funky geometric prints and bright colors, never really goes out of style. The colors may clash with some of your outfits, but print mixing is currently "cool" and this will work in this purse's favor.

Now, whilst the checkerboard squares are great looking, this Eenamaria bag is somewhat lacking in shape. It can't seem to decide between being thin and elegant, or chunky and spacious. Of course both have advantages, but combined it makes for a 60s clutch with a wide bottom and a narrow top, finished with a strange gold chain.

All in all this is an affordable and accessible clutch, that looks good but doesn't necessarily carry that design through to completion.

More Features of this Eenamaria Geometric Clutch

  • Available in red/black/white or gray/yellow/white combinations
  • Golden chain handle
  • Frame closure

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