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
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B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT
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Charles David Zelda Clutch | Haircalf and Leather Handbag with Lizard Print

Posted on: Nov 14

Charles David has an impressive selection of stylish shoes, but the brand's handbags make equally dramatic statements and are worth considering if you're looking for shopping for quality in a mid-price range.

The label is no stranger to animal print material, so this Zelda handbag with a leopard-printed haircalf inset doesn't surprise me one bit. Statement bags are big this season, which makes this bold clutch a great option for staying on trend during the fall.

Although I'm really not a huge fan of animal print or haircalf material on a purse, I'm somewhat drawn to the mixture of textures on this Charles David design. The middle haircalf inset is flanked by a lizard-embossed leather border and smooth leather body.

This oversized clutch has simple cutout handles commonly seen on bags of this type, but also features a detachable shoulder strap that gives you an additional option for carrying. If you like the style but really aren't a fan of animal print, the Zelda is available in a beautiful blend of grays as well as a berry red color.

More Features of the Zelda Clutch

  • Measures 17.5 x 12 x 3.5 inches
  • Cutout handles with 1 inch drop
  • Detachable, adjustable shoulder strap
  • Magnetic closure
  • Retail price of $225

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B. Makowsky Eden Shopper | Belted Leather Casual Carryall Bag

Posted on: Nov 12

B. Makowsky is one of those rare designers who always seems to hit the mark. While his bags are never right for the red carpet or a glamorous night out, it’s hard to resist them when you're looking for a casual everyday purse. With Christmas just around the corner, it seems appropriate to think about a bag like the Eden shopper.

It's not as large as many shoppers, so it won't carry a lot of holiday shopping. But it would look cute paired with your casual mall attire, especially in this festive shade of lipstick red! If it's a little loud for your tastes, consider one of the five other color options. Stone and brandy are classic choices for the more reserved bagistas out there.

For me though, red is the real showstopper. The vibrant shade makes the silver hardware adorning the external pockets, belt, and shoulder straps really pop. The faux belt may make getting in and out of the bag a little fiddly, but I like the relaxed style it brings. Tying it loosely may make your goodies more accessible, or you could stash the essentials into the massive side pockets.

The $288 price tag represents great value for this classic B. Makowsky shopping bag.

More Features of This B. Makowsky Belted Shopper

  • Made of 100% leather
  • Leopard print lining
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Dual shoulder straps with an 8 inch drop
  • Measures 11.5 x 11.5 inches
  • Made in China
  • Available in stone, brandy, lipstick, sage, maize, and marble blue

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Ashley M Plaid Clock Bag | Red Tartan Tote Purse

Posted on: Nov 11

There's no excuse for running late for your appointments when you carry this Ashley M Plaid Clock Bag.

We expect quirky novelty bags from Ashley M, but this one is a little more stylish than many of the brand's creations. Red plaid reminds us of Burberry and other preppy, more luxurious labels. Although I doubt those high-end designers would cover their handbags in tacky glass stones or a large clock face!

The tartan print is reminiscent of those designer brands, but this isn't trying to be a high-end fashion item. It just wants to have fun. The battery-operated clock is surrounded by on-trend studs and glass stone accents. Glossy black patent trim completes this playful purse.

The lining is a little cheap and nasty, but that's the only thing I can fault inside. It's a great size – not too big or too small – and there are zip and slip pockets in the walls to keep your smaller items organized.

This unique Ashley M purse is cheaper than most watches at $30.

More Features of This Ashley M Plaid Purse

  • Zip top closure
  • A zip pocket and two slip pouches inside
  • Dual shoulder straps
  • Measures 16 x 4 x 13 inches

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Betseyville Lucky Stripes Hobo | Large Animal Print Bag with Metallic Trim and Matching Pouch

Posted on: Nov 10

Betsey Johnson appeals even more to the wild side than normal, if you can imagine, with this Betseyville Lucky Stripes Hobo. Instead of simply whimsical, cutesy, or retro like other styles from the brand, this handbag is exotic and dramatic.

Forget subtle details, though Betsey Johnson isn't always known for that, the Lucky Stripes bag takes this design full throttle with a blend of printed animal patterns, shiny metallic trim, and bright colors. There's nothing understated about it.

This shimmery fabric hobo is large in size and will fit plenty of extra items like magazines, paperwork, and even the bonus tiger-face zippered pouch that comes with the purchase. Although the handle isn't really long enough to wear across the body like a messenger bag, it is a comfortable length for getting things in and out quite easily.

The real surprise, however, is the fact that the solid-colored fully lined interior is printed with a large Betseyville logo on one side and embroidered lips on the other. The Lucky Stripes bag is completely reversible allowing you to decide whether you want to sport bright animal print or a solid color with embellishments. When you factor in the bonus pouch, that comes to a total of three bags for one price of $88.

More Features of the Lucky Stripes Hobo

  • Measures 15.5 x 13 x 4.75 inches
  • Single strap with 10.5 inch drop
  • Reversible
  • Bonus pouch included

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Daughter Inspires Olivia Harris, Joy Gryson’s Budget Youth Handbag Collection

Posted on: Nov 7

Joy Gryson has two new babies: her six-year-old daughter Olivia Harris and the budget handbag line which shares her firstborn's name.

Little Olivia seems like the perfect namesake for the brand given her own keen fashion sense.

"She's really, really funny. Whenever we see someone walking in the street with one of the bags, she gets too excited," explained the New York designer. "She loves the little charm and the tag."

Showing you're never too young to carry a designer purse, Olivia enjoys carrying a one-of-a-kind creation made lovingly by her mother. Her pink leopard cross-body hobo covered in hammered rivets doesn't sound like the most tasteful creation around, but that just makes it perfect for a mini fashionista. While Olivia would love to take it to her first-grade class, her mother insists it's for weekend use only.

While fashion fans can't get Olivia's beloved bag, others like it are available in the Olivia Harris collection.

"We're all about downtown," explained Joy Gryson. "If the Gryson girl is TriBeCa, the Olivia Harris girl is her younger, cooler, rock ’n’ roll baby sister from Brooklyn or the LES."

The Olivia Harris handbags start from $155, and range up to $495. You can find them at Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's and Saks Fifth Avenue.

[Source: NY Post]
[Image Source: Bergdorf Goodman]

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Snakeskin is On Trend for Animal Print Handbags and Accessories

Posted on: Nov 4

If you're looking to add an animal print accessory to your wardrobe this season, look no further than snakeskin. Whether the genuine article or a more affordable embossed alternative, fashion experts say snake now trumps leopard and cheetah spots.

Andrea Linett, the creative directory of Lucky magazine, says snakeskin's popularity can be attributed to its versatile nature.

"A snakeskin boot can be rock 'n' roll if it's in a rock 'n' roll shape, or it's classic if it's in a lady shape," she explained.

Compare this to metal studs, which always add attitude, or frills which scream girly girl.

Snakeskin is "beautiful, rich and earthy," adds Abbe Held, creative director of handbag brand Kooba. She loves the interest that snakeskin's textured surface instantly creates. "It's neutral yet has so much character and personality."

It seems fashion fans agree, with retailers enjoying record sales of the sexy exotic.

"We're doing a lot of business on snakeskin, in shoes and handbags, especially," added Macy's group vice-president of ready-to-wear fashion Nicole Fischelis. "It's the fusion of things - the colors, the graphics, that you can wear it with dresses or sportswear - that makes it more interesting."

If you don't already own a snakeskin bag, perhaps it's time to add one to your wardrobe!

[Source: The Canadian Press]
[Image Source: Steenslag/Flickr]

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Kate Spade Yuma Loren Clutch | Bright Yellow Tasseled Purse

Posted on: Oct 29

I feel, with the winter months encroaching, that a little dose of brightness may be in order. A drop or two of bright color needs to be injected into our wardrobes, to keep the long nights at bay and our spirits lifted.

As Kate Spade has been all over the fashion blogs for the past few weeks, it seems appropriate to choose one of her purses, and this yellow beauty from the Yuma range is just the thing to keep us all feeling happy.

This tasseled cowboy clutch is available in a dull and average shade of chocolate, but it is the golden marigold tone that make this stand out from the crowd. Textured with the layers of smooth flat tassels (no chance of getting tangled here!), this is a happy sunny little purse with a healthy does of attitude.

Whilst the cute exterior is wonderful, what with the functional-yet-stylish clasp, the interior isn't quite to my tastes. The strange leopard print pattern just doesn't push my buttons, and I wish for Kate Spade's 1960s influence to shine through a bit more.

Try teaming this cute and modern clutch with a bold pair of contrasting tights, to really make people around you feel bright and chirpy. If tassels aren't your thing, then this is certainly a version that is more accessible than most!

More Features of this Bold Kate Spade Clutch

  • Gold-plated hardware to add class
  • Available in yellow or brown
  • Animal print leather trimmed interior

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Steven by Steve Madden Animal Instincts Satchel | Black Pony Hair and Synthetic Handbag

Posted on: Oct 29

It might be basic black, but this Steve Madden Animal Instincts satchel will help you get in touch with your wild side.

I've been on the fence with haircalf bags before, but by keeping the color conservative I think Steve Madden may have won me over. The surface looks soft and velvety rather than creepy and furry. I wish it was teamed with genuine leather rather than synthetic, but I suppose it keeps the price down. At nearly $230, this satchel is a lot more expensive than most Steve Madden purses already. Genuine leather may have won over bag snobs, but it probably would have alienated Steve Madden's budget-conscious fans.

While it might not withstand as much punishment, the synthetic doesn't diminish the Animal Instincts sexy good looks. The gleaming gold hardware provides a rich contrast to the brooding dark fabrics.

The animal appeal continues inside with the flamboyant leopard print lining. The zippered pocket and technology-loving slips help keep this sizable interior space in order.

The biggest flaw for me is the short straps. Sure, they're exceedingly cute, but they're just not practical for a bag of this size. I can't imagine how awkward I'd feel lugging this satchel around once it was loaded up with all my essentials! It's perfect for making a statement at dinner, but if you've got errands to run you'd best leave this baby at home.

More Features of This Steve Madden Pony Hair Satchel

  • A sundial lock zipper pull
  • A Steve Madden keychain
  • Dual straps with a 4 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 8 x 7 inches
  • Made in China

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Stuart Weitzman Report Clutch | Leopard Print Patent Elongated Purse

Posted on: Oct 23

Do you want to wear leopard print? Perhaps you have always secretly liked it, but never been sure how to? Perhaps most leopard print won't go with anything at all but you desperately want some in your wardrobe.

All these thoughts have crossed my mind at some point or other, and I think  I might have found the solution with this undeniably sophisticated Stuart Weitzman Report clutch.

First we have the small leopard print. No gaudy tacky over-sized animal print on this patent baby. Instead, this gentle print will go with many more outfits and won't make people's eyes go funny. Secondly the triangular folded face is just sexy.

Of course, the strong exterior does mean that you can't squeeze that much in the bag, even though it is stretched out! Thankfully it does come with a convenient handle, however,  and for once it isn't a chain! Lovely!

More Features of this Stuart Weitzman Report Clutch

  • Available in leopard print, golden or snake colors
  • Patent leather exterior
  • Envelope design
  • Optional foot long handle

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