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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Posted in Brown, Carlos Falchi, Green, Satchel | Tell Us What You Think »

Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tate | Sturdy Tote Bag with Logo Stitching

Posted on: Nov 19

I'm fairly certain that the words "pretty" and "nylon" don't go together all that often when it comes to high fashion, but evidently Marc Jacobs is attempting to change that with the Pretty Nylon Tate collection from his trendy designer line Marc by Marc Jacobs.

It's by no means the first time a designer brand has utilized nylon for a handbag. Even Kate Spade has gotten in on the action with her Coney Island Stevie Satchel. This use of the sturdy material on the Tate, however, is not particularly compelling to me despite its popular label.

The Pretty Nylon Tate is indeed made from durable, easy-to-take-care of nylon and could be called cute, in my opinion; but I'm just not completely sold on the pretty part. It's certainly not unattractive, but it's no Loopy Bow Pouchette or other feminine Marc by Marc Jacobs design.

On the other hand, I like the unique logo topstitching that covers the tote but doesn't stand out too much. It's just enough to add a little something to the simple design. The knotted handle rings are a nice touch as well. In addition to the practical material, the Pretty Nylon Tate has convenient double side pockets on the exterior as well as a very roomy lined interior for carrying around tons of stuff.

More Features of the Pretty Nylon Tate

  • Measures 21.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches
  • Magnetic closure
  • Signature logo topstitching

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Posted in Marc Jacobs, Purple, Tote | Tell Us What You Think »

Bulga Misa Hobo Bag | Medium Silver Snakeskin Purse with Pockets

Posted on: Nov 18

Bulga delivers a glitzy glamourpuss of a purse in the Misa hobo.

While it's called a hobo, it doesn't have the crescent shape or boho feel we associate with these type of bags. Sure it's slouchy, but so are a lot of purses. In fact, the Misa bears a striking resemblance to the De Beber satchel! But while the De Beber is smart and sensible, the Misa is a party animal. Snakeskin is never a shy print, and the shiny silver color only adds to the effect. It's safe to say this will be too loud for many, but it's still bound to have its admirers.

The thing I love most about the Misa is that, unlike many other showy bags, it doesn't forget about the practical perks. Two round zippered pouches sit side by side, giving the purse that motorcycle feel it shares with the De Beber. The addition of pockets to that loud fabric could easily have become confused, but by keeping the satchel's shape simple and the embellishments at bay it works well.

The zippered entry with its braided pull opens to reveal a space which is generous, but not overwhelming. It may have been considered large once upon a time, but today it's probably regarded as medium. Whatever the case, it's big enough to carry your daily must-haves without weighing you down. That's a good thing too, because the stiff too-short straps don't make carrying easy.

If you're a disco queen this glittering hobo may be right up your alley.

More Features of This Bulga Snakeskin Hobo

  • Printed plainweave fabric lining
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 3.25 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 11 inches
  • Made in the United States

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Posted in Bulga, Hobo, Silver | Tell Us What You Think »

Bottega Veneta Cushion Bag | Unique Black Leather Mosaico Cervo Handbag

Posted on: Nov 18

I've seen so many woven handbags from Bottega Veneta that they're almost starting to get boring. So I was excited to see this very different looking purse from the Italian fashion house.

It's not just a new look for Bottega Veneta. The Cushion Bag looks like no bag I've ever seen more, and when you see as many handbags as I do that's really saying something. There are many different Cushion Bag styles in Bottega Veneta's catalog, but the one that's really won my heart is the Mosaico Cervo. The name comes from the embroidered leather finish which looks like tiny mosaic tiles. The tiles sit close together on the sides of the bag, before becoming scattered haphazardly along the top. The texture makes it hard to look away, so don't be surprised if you turn a few heads carrying this baby.

The bag opens with two zips positioned between the rolled shoulder straps. I wish the zipper didn't extend quite so far, as it interrupts the purse's sexy curves, but it does mean you can open the cushion bag wide. A leather trimmed zipper pocket and an open pouch help keep your girly goods in order.

Bottega Veneta purses never come cheap, and this stunning cushion bag is no exception. At $4,380, this is one expensive piece of arm candy, but that shouldn't come as any surprise to those who worship at the Bottega Veneta alter.

More Features of This Bottega Veneta Mosaico Cervo Bag

  • Suede lined interior
  • Dual rolled handles with a 6.5 inch drop
  • Measures 17 inch diameter and 4 inches tall

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Posted in Black, Bottega Veneta, Shoulder Bags | Tell Us What You Think »

Magid Crystal Stone Clutch | Affordable Manmade Jeweled Evening Bag

Posted on: Nov 17

We all have outfits that call for a slightly dressier than average type of handbag, but budgets often don't accommodate for the prices of Swarovski-studded, intricately detailed designer styles. For a truly affordable evening bag, Magid is definitely one of the brands to seek out.

Though you won't get super high quality materials, this brand has some really nice options for dressy accessories under $50. This Crystal Stone Clutch might not live up to the standards of other jeweled handbags, but the $43 price tag and simple design are worth considering when your pocketbook is calling for cutbacks.

The design is basically a simple fabric zippered pouch with silver and black manmade jewels sewn on in a random pattern. I actually really like the somewhat haphazard layout of the stones. It detracts from the quality of the actual jewels, and the interesting pattern fits right in with current trends. It's too bad that the feature doesn't continue on the back, but that's not completely unexpected for this type of purse.

As with most budget-friendly bags, I wouldn't take this one through too much use or you might see some wear and tear on it, especially with the sewn-on stones. However, since it's meant to function as an evening bag, which is only required occasionally, that probably won't pose much of an issue.

More Features of the Crystal Stone Clutch

  • Manmade material
  • Zipper closure
  • Detachable strap

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Posted in Black, Clutch, Magid, Silver | Tell Us What You Think »

Baggu Lincoln Shopping Bag | Eco-Friendly Limited Edition President Purse

Posted on: Nov 13

I normally throw my support behind any new eco-friendly bags, but I must admit that this Baggu line has me scratching my head.

The brand has taken its popular reusable shopper and added a president. I'm not quite sure who would want to carry a shopper with the screen printed face of Abraham Lincoln on it, but those patriotic history lovers are sure to be pleased.

Like all Baggu bags, this limited edition Lincoln shopper is made from ripstop nylon. This fabric is lightweight, and guaranteed not to tear when carrying cans and other groceries weighing up to 25 pounds. It big enough to hold the equivalent of two or three plastic bags, but folds up into a 5 x 5 inch pouch, so you can stash it away in your handbag or pocket. Supermarket spills are no problem, as this Baggu bag is machine washable.

At $12, this Baggu bag works out to be more expensive than the brand's typical multipacks. But it is a little more fun than the traditional single-color options.

More Features of This Baggu Limited Edition Shopper

  • A gusseted bottom
  • Dual handles
  • Weighs 2 ounces

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Posted in Baggu, Blue, Gray, Purple, Shopper | Tell Us What You Think »

Cynthia Vincent Simple Metallic Pouch | Disco-style Silver Purse

Posted on: Nov 12

Is this is wallet, a coin purse or a clutch? Perhaps it is a little makeup bag, or simply a storage pouch? This square little purse is quite a mystery, and it is confusing me!

Regarding looks, it is actually quite a nice break from the norm to see something this undecorated. The bright blue or silver color stands out for itself and doesn't need to be adorned. A little bit of function is added by the simple tied zip pull, but other than that there are no fancy features or special additions.

So, what we are left with is a small, elegant square pouch, with no interior or exterior pockets and no buttons, nor bells and whistles. In essence, this is a totally, utterly versatile square of leather, great for holding your phone, or your jewelery, or even accompanying you on a night out.

As for what it is? I think you might have to decide that yourself!

More Features of this Cynthia Vincent Simple Pouch

  • Available in silver or metallic blue
  • Simple dark interior
  • Tied zip pull

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Posted in Blue, Clutch, Cosmetics, Silver | Tell Us What You Think »

Baby Phat Royal Status 4 Ring Satchel | Crown Motif Purse with Diagonal Pockets

Posted on: Nov 12

There's just nothing subtle about a Baby Phat bag. The label divides opinion more than most with its busy and brash designs. From any other brand I'd gasp in horror at the Royal Status 4 Ring Satchel, but it's just what I'd expect from Baby Phat.

The brown synthetic leather was probably conservative once. That is, until Baby Phat covered it in its ornate crown logo. Those crowns have got nothing on the bag’s centerpiece: a large metal crown adorned with studs. There are more studs along the base of the bag, and along the belts around the angular pockets. Sloping pockets tend to look edgy, but these belts create a vaguely equestrian feel. I suppose royalty ride horses, but the embellishment still feels a little out of place. The bold colored racing stripes streaking down the center of the purse are similarly confusing. They add color, but there was so much going on already that more design features was the last thing this satchel needed.

It's a shame that Baby Phat didn't care so much about adding features inside. The interior is spacious enough to comfortably carry a chunky wallet, must-have technology, and other daily essentials. But there are not enough pockets to help us truly stay organized. There's a zippered pocket for loose change, and an open pouch for a cell phone, but where will your iPod or Nintendo DS go? The handles are also a shade too short for comfortable over-the-shoulder carrying.

While I might obsess about its practical shortcomings, that's not likely to deter Baby Phat's legions of fans. If you've got to the confidence to carry off this cluttered look, more power to you!

More Features of This Baby Phat Crown Satchel

  • Platform base
  • Top zip closure with kitty logo pull tag
  • Dual handles with a 5.5 inch drop
  • Measures 13 x 6 x 8 inches

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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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Posted in Ashley M, Red, Tote | Tell Us What You Think »

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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Posted in Animal Print, Betsey Johnson, Hobo, Purple, White | Tell Us What You Think »