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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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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Nine West Rory Cross-Body Bag | Inexpensive Medium Red Plaid Purse

Posted on: Oct 26

Plaid is one of those classic prints which is rarely on-trend, yet never goes out of style. If your budget won't accommodate Burberry, you can get a similar look with the Nine West Rory.

This plaid is a lot softer than Burberry's famous tartan, thanks to the use of muted, complementary tones. The checked fabric body is complemented by synthetic trim. The buckle on the belted accent is a little chunky for my tastes, but at least it gives the Rory a distinctive look.

This is a medium-sized bag, but one that's nicely organized. A zip pocket and two slip pouches are almost standard for large totes, but it's a little rarer to see so many compartments in a bag of this size. Nylon is often an underrated lining choice, but it's a good fit here. Cross body fans tend to be girls on the go, so this easy-clean fabric is ideal.

The regular strap is ideal for over-the-shoulder toting, but the Rory is called a cross-body, so you know that's not the only option. You can attach the much longer strap for easier all-day carrying. I only wish the original strap was detachable too. In cross-body mode, it dangles aimlessly. Bags with shorter handles can easily get away with this, but that's not the case here. With a minor adjustment, Nine West could have made this cute cross-body bag just a little bit better.

More Features of This Nine West Plaid Cross-Body Bag

  • Silver-toned hardware
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • A chain handle with a 9 inch drop and a removable cross-body strap
  • Measures 11 x 7 x 4.5 inches

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Mulberry Roxanne Satchel | Buckled Chocolate Brown Leather It Bag

Posted on: Oct 23

The roaring success of Mulberry's Roxanne satchel only goes to show that a bag doesn’t have to look good to become a hit.

I don't mind the elements of this leather looker, but Mulberry simply takes them too far. Buckled pockets are classics, both sophisticated and practical. Belted accents too can add an unexpected preppy style. And no one would begrudge a designer adding a smattering of studs. But all together this is hardware overload, the likes of which we rarely see outside Juicy Couture.

The pockets up front hint at a bag that values practicality, but sadly Mulberry doesn't deliver on that score either. The medium-sized interior space deserves more than the single zippered pocket we find to stay organised. Not even the straps are functional; they're far too short for most women to fit comfortably over their shoulder.

Perhaps I'm being a little harsh on this Mulberry satchel. It does have a distinct look, and for many that's enough. But personally, I can think of many better ways to spend $1595.

More Features of This Mulberry Brown Leather Bag

  • Hidden magnetic closure
  • Suede interior
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 2.75 inch drop
  • Measures 3.75 x 8.25 x 6.5 inches
  • Comes with a dust bag

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Gustto Torsa Tote | Relaxed Leather Handbag with Ring Handles and Optional Strap

Posted on: Oct 18

This Gustto Torsa Tote shares a similar design feature with the Bonba Clutch from the same brand. However, the practicality of the Torsa's larger size and multiple carrying options makes it a better choice for an everyday handbag.

The feature that the two bags share is the softly twisted strips of leather that flank a center panel on the front. From afar, the detail kind of has a fish gill appearance to it but not in an unappealing way. It's a look that you certainly don't see on other brands. My only hesitation would be that I might accidentally snag one of those delicate twisted strips on something, especially with the feature being on a larger scale (no pun intended) on the Torsa.

It's an impressive design, though, and even more unique when paired with the double circular handles that loop through the top. Of course, ring handles are very rarely practical since most of the time you can only carry them in their hands. Thank goodness for the optional shoulder strap that is included. I'm guessing that the majority of people would choose that carrying method for using the Torsa on a regular basis.

Luxurious leather, quality details, and suede lining don't come without a price, however. This Gustto is priced at a whopping $790, which is not inconsistent with the label's higher end styles. The rosy pink shade picture here is not traditionally a versatile color but definitely one that sets the tote apart even more.

More Features of the Torsa Tote

  • Measures 18 x 12 x 3.5 inches
  • Circular handles with 5 inch drop
  • Sunken zipper closure

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Designer Label Balmain Reveals New Handbag Collection | Bags to Hit Net-A-Porter Soon

Posted on: Oct 17

It's a rare day for me to be calling a $1,900 handbag a surprisingly affordable option. Well, maybe I wouldn't quite call it affordable, but I was at least somewhat pleasantly surprised by the starting price point of designer label Balmain's highly anticipated handbag line.

For a label whose items include a nearly $14,000 leather jacket for sale on Net-A-Porter, a collection of shoulder bags with a price range of roughly $1,900 to just over $3,900 seems almost reasonable ... or at least slightly attainable for some shoppers.

Consistent with previous rumors of the collection's designs, these Balmain bags include plenty of embellishments. More specifically, you'll find quilted stitching, strategically-placed smatterings of studs, and even a little fringe among the bunch. Each one has an edgy, contemporary twist that is indicative of Balmain's signature look.

This somewhat small line of handbags, including the priciest Punk Suede Shoulder Bag shown above, will be available on Net-A-Porter's website this coming Monday, October 19. See all four styles from the collection at Bag Snob's website.

[Source: Bag Snob]

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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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Ashley M Bow Tie Evening Bag | Fun Pink Sequined Party Purse

Posted on: Sep 27

Ashley M is one of those rare fashion labels which doesn't take itself too seriously. Its accessories are unashamedly cheap and cheerful, flights of fancy that favor fun over chic styling.

That's definitely the case with this bow tie purse. It's not intended to suit a red carpet occasion or night at the theater. It's much more at home at a retro party or loud karaoke night with girls.

Its large sequins and even bigger bow all scream "look at me!" There’s nothing shy or retiring about this combination. The shoulder strap could be a little longer, but I'm thankful for its soft satin finish. It's the kind of strap that knows girls tend to show bare shoulders on a night out!

This fuschia purse is the brightest and boldest bow tie bag. Black, wine, and olive green are much more subdued. But I figure if you're going to carry a bag covered in sequins and a great big bow, why not go all the way?

This Ashley M purse isn't the height of fashion, but it's not trying to be. For just $30, it's a fun accessory for those nights when you want to let your hair down.

More Features of This Ashley M Evening Bag

  • Frame kiss lock entry
  • Fabric lining
  • A single shoulder strap with a 6 inch drop
  • Measures 9.5 x 2 x 4 inches

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Anne Klein New York Greenwich Satchel | Chic Quilted Black Nylon Handbag

Posted on: Sep 26

It's all about downtown glamour with the Anne Klein New York Greenwich Satchel.

It's made from nylon, which is both long-lasting and lightweight. It also keeps this satchel down to a perfectly reasonable $275. This fabric rarely looks luxurious, but it's jazzed up here with vertical quilting and sexy patent leather trim. The silver chain zipper pull adds edge, working with Anne Klein's familiar lion medallion to toughen up the fabric finish.

This satchel is so large, it could easily work as an office bag or travel tote. There's so much room inside, and the soft walls make it easy to overstuff. Plenty of pockets inside and out make it easy to keep your girly goods safe and organized.

The only thing that makes me hesitate are those shoulder straps. While the heavy metal links mimics the chain on the front perfectly, it can't be comfortable to carry. They say beauty is pain, but for an everyday bag like this I'd rather put practicality first.

More Features of This Anne Klein Quilted Satchel

  • Grosgrain lining
  • Zip top closure
  • Protective feet on the base
  • Dual chain shoulder straps with an 8.5 inch drop
  • Measures 13 x 16 x 5.5 inches
  • Made in China

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Lanvin Amalia Tote | Quilted And Crinkled Classic Black Lambskin Leather Carryall

Posted on: Sep 24

48717 in dlLanvin is on the cutting edge of fashion forward elegance. A balanced mix of time-tested quality and of-the-moment designs keeps them on the forefront.

This tote is a great example of Lanvin's sophisticated aesthetic. The tote's shape and style are both classic and luxurious, but there are a few modern twists that make this tote special. Like the hand-wrinkled lambskin material. I honestly could not think of anything that feels and looks more sumptuous than this.

I wouldn't have guessed, though, that it would be a good material for quilting, as it seems, in the abstract, like there might be too much going on. But, it's executed perfectly, and I love the softening effect the crinkled material has on this somewhat preppy classic.

The quality of this bag really shows through in every detail from the satin trim to the diamond stitching to the grosgrain ribbon detail. I love the ribbon handles on the chain strap. They're way more comfortable to hold than metal, and will hold up to a decent amount of use.

The Amalia is a great tote that will look fab this season, and also for years to come.

More Features Of The Lanvin Amalia Tote

  • Snap top fastening
  • 16" x 14" x 6" size
  • 5" handle drop

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