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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Balenciaga Whistle Handbag | Sophisticated Red Lambskin and Exotic Leather Purse

Posted on: Nov 14

Balenciaga breaks with tradition with this Whistle Handbag. The label's typical bold hardware and long tassels are gone, replaced with luxury leathers and a slouchy barrel shape.

The name comes from the shiny engraved whistle which hangs from the bag. Unlike so many gimmicks, this small whistle is endearing rather than obnoxious. It makes me think I could instantly alert passersby the moment I was threatened in a dark alley, or perhaps be a sexy police officer ready to halt a crime in progress!

The Whistle comes in a range of fabrics, from this luxury combination of lambskin with exotic trim, a lush goatskin, or the more casual (and less expensive) canvas variety. Unzip the top to reveal a generous lined interior. The shape reminds me of a gym bag, and there's probably the space to use it for just that. I just couldn't put my stinky trainers in anything so luxurious! I only wish there were the organizational features to match. A lone zippered pocket just isn't enough to keep such a large space in order.

A favorite with celebs like Katie Holmes, the Whistle bag is something a little different from Balenciaga.

More Features of This Balenciaga Lambskin and Ostrich Bag

  • Top zip and hook lock closure
  • A hanging mirror
  • Double rolled handles
  • Measures 12.5 x 8 x 5.5 inches
  • Made in Italy

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Win a Jalda Julie Foldover Handbag from Bag Bliss and Stefani Bags

Posted on: Nov 13

Jalda's collection of super luxurious handbags is the stuff of a mid-range designer shopper's dream. With soft leathers and exotic textures like embossed ostrich, stingray, and eel skin for relatively reasonable costs, Jalda hits the right spot for a variety of women.

Even if you can't afford a $350 price tag, however, you can attempt to win one of these gorgeous designs. The folks over at Bag Bliss have teamed up with online retailer Stefani Bags to give away a Jalda Julie Clutch in super soft lambskin leather.

This two-in-one purse works as a classy handheld tote by day but folds down to a clutch for dressier nights. The metal cutout handle adds a contemporary flare to this luxurious design.

The contest is open only to residents of the United States, and it runs through to November 25 at 1:00 pm (EST). Get your entry in quickly before the giveaway is over, and check out these Jalda listings on eBay for other options.

[Source: Bag Bliss]

Foldover Handbags on eBay

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House of Dog Creates Eco-Friendly Dog Carriers and Pet Accessories

Posted on: Nov 11

I must admit, I'm an old fashioned girl who believes a dog should either stay at home while you run your errands, or trot happily beside you on a leash. But if you insist on toting your pampered pooch in a handbag, the least you can do is opt for an eco-friendly dog carrier.

House of Dog is one brand offering a leather-free alternative. This cute Signature Paw purse, like all the other House of Dog accessories, is made from 100% cruelty free faux leather. It doesn't do a bad ostrich impersonation, and those Czech crystals definitely up the style factor. Celebrity dog lovers agree, with Tori Spelling, Cindy Crawford, and Denise Richards all spotted carrying this doggie bag. You can get it in seven colors for $320.

The eco-friendly House of Dog range also includes other puppy essentials like collars, leashes, toys, bowls, and even wedding gear for those wanting to take their pooch with them down the aisle!

[Source: Luxist]
[Image Source: House of Dog]

Fashion Dog Carriers on eBay

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Yves Saint Laurent Customizes Roady in Los Angeles and New York

Posted on: Nov 10

Yves Saint Laurent's latest "It" bag, the Roady, shot to fame on the arms of glamorous celebs like Rihanna, Katy Perry, Kylie Minogue, and Leighton Meester. Now the in-demand purse will get a personalized makeover for shoppers in America's fashion capitals, Los Angeles and New York City.

The Roady already comes in a variety of shapes and colors, including black nappa and vibrant red and blue leathers. But Yves Saint Laurent artesan furriers will further customize the bags this month. Roady lovers can jazz up the handles with colored exotic skins, including ostrich, crocodile, and lizard. The lizard is the bargain option at $225, the ostrich will cost $385, and the crocodile clocks in at $515. To further add value, Yves Saint Laurent staff will also embroider your initials inside your Roady for nix.

The customized Roady bags are available in YSL's Los Angeles and New York boutiques from November 19 to December 1.

[Source: View on Fashion]

Yves Saint Laurent Roady Bags on eBay

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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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Salvatore Ferragamo Marisa Bag | Stylish Black Calf Leather Handbag

Posted on: Oct 28

Salvatore Ferragamo keeps it simple with the Marisa, a timeless black leather carryall.

It's crafted from supple calf leather, which feels so soft to the touch. This luxurious fabric gives the Marisa, with its gentle pleats, just a hint of slouch. While it's an opulent choice, it's not an ostentatious one. While croc and ostrich draw the eye, calfskin is subtle. This gives the Marisa the versatility you need to travel from the board room to cocktails after quitting time.

Some may be disappointed in the lack of colors available, but black really is the best choice. There's that versatility we spoke of earlier, but it's also about the look. No other shade would see the silver hardware pop quite as much. The belted accents at the sides and fold key-lock are inspired touches, ensuring the Marisa becomes more than just another basic black bag.

A zipper hides underneath the front flap. It might seem a little superfluous when you're in a hurry, but I appreciate the double dose of security. After all, anyone carrying Salvatore Ferragamo probably has some things worth protecting!

As with so many Salvatore Ferragamo bags, the biggest stumbling block here is the price. $1390 isn't completely exorbitant in the world of high-end European fashion, but it's not chump change either.

More Features of This Salvatore Ferragamo Black Leather Bag

  • Lined with black and silver logo print nylon
  • A zippered pocket, cell phone slip, and open pocket inside
  • Dual 19 inch rolled handles with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 17 x 9 x 4 inches
  • Made in Italy

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Carlos Falchi Box Clutch | Shiny Anaconda Snakeskin Handbag

Posted on: Oct 20

Carlos Falchi might be getting ready to see the release of an affordable line of faux snakeskin handbags at Target, but that doesn't mean that the designer isn't still churning out other designs made from the real deal.

For genuine anaconda snakeskin leather from a designer label, I'm actually not completely aghast at the Carlos Falchi Box Clutch's price tag of $595. Honestly, I wouldn't have been shocked to see it a bit higher. That doesn't, however, lessen its designer quality or appeal. It is a Carlos Falchi, after all.

The exotic skin is a signature of the label, and snakeskin seems to be a particular favorite. Similar to the Flat Python Clutch, this Box Clutch has no surprising features or unexpected details besides the unique texture. It's a typical size for a small clutch bag, has simple, clean lines, and is altogether classy.

There's just a little something about the scaly skin that kind of makes me go ick, but that certainly wouldn't deter me from carrying around this little luxury bag. If anaconda doesn't do it for you, there are other options for the Box Clutch style. For about twice the price, you can get this Carlos Falchi design in ostrich or crocodile.

More Features of the Anaconda Box Clutch

  • Measures 6.5 x 4 x 1.75 inches
  • Optional chain strap with 15 inch drop
  • Front flap with magnetic closure

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Giani Bernini Carol Linen Purse | Sensible Affordable Leather Trimmed Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Oct 11

Sensible is rarely sexy, but it can be attractive. If you favor function over head-turning style, let me introduce you to the Carol from Giani Bernini.

It's not that the Carol is unattractive. The slightly trapezoidal shape is classic, and the combination of natural linen and tan croco trim earthy and autumnal. But it's just not all that exciting. The front pocket, with its brass buckles, is the kind of feature I'd expect to see on a school bag. It's entirely practical, but not so chic.

The Carol's functional design is its real drawcard. The lined interior is spacious, and decked out with slip pockets and a large zippered pouch. The leather pull makes it easy to access your precious cargo, while the zipper closure keeps them safe. The strap is long and flat, to help it sit comfortably on your shoulder. The linen platform base is protected from wear and tear with four metal feet.

This Giani Bernini purse has all the features and quality of any high-end designer bag; it's just a little lacking in the style department. However, don't let that dissuade you if you're on a budget. Priced at $84, it represents much better value than many cheap synthetic purses.

More Features of This Giani Bernini Linen Shoulder Bag

  • A "GB" hang tag
  • A single shoulder strap with a 10 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 8 inches

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Jessica Jensen Grace Portfolio/Foldover Clutch | Purple Ostrich-Embossed Leather Bag

Posted on: Oct 8

Jessica Jensen seems to have a handle on creating unique clutches that will work with a variety of outfits, and this Grace foldover clutch from the label's collection is definitely a standout among others.

In an attempt to bring exotic leather to a reasonable price range, this handbag is crafted from the softest of ostrich-embossed leather. Unless you're an expert on ostrich bags or just types of leather in general, I'm guessing that most people won't be able to tell the difference between this embossed version and the real deal.

I'm not the only one who is loving the purple handbags that are so on-trend this season since they seem to be popping up everywhere lately. Combined with this luxurious-looking material, the Grace clutch is perfectly on point for today's fashion but also timeless in its design.

There's nothing bulky or distracting about the style of the purse, which allows the color and texture to shine as the stars of the show. The simplistic portfolio design of this clutch, which simply snaps inside at the top and folds over slightly, is a testimony to Jessica Jensen's genius as well as the timelessness of the purse.

At $428, the Grace clutch is not exactly in what's considered an affordable price range, but it is the type of handbag that you'll be able to use for years to come. Plus, its generous size makes it practical for regular use.

More Features of the Grace Foldover Clutch

  • Measures 15.75 x 8 x 2 inches
  • Magnetic closure
  • Foldover flap
  • Suede lining
  • Available in multiple colors and textures

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