Soft and squishy Nappa leather and unique patterns are nothing new to luxury label Miu Miu, but I'm not used to seeing much shine on their handbag designs. That, however, is not the case for the brand's recently unveiled Resort 2010 collection of purses.

Forget patchwork and matelasse elements. This time it's about quilting and shiny jewels. The new collection is full of the label's signature Nappa leather combined with shimmering jeweled straps and quilted effects.

For the most part, I'd classify these resort designs as evening bags; not only because of their fancy details but also due to their size. There's not one in the bunch that's too large to carry clutched in your hand. They might not be everyday purses, but they're definitely ones to make a luxe statement.

The Quilted Nappa Cristal bag pictured above is just one example of Miu Miu's "stage bags" for 2010. Check out more from the collection on the label's website.

[Source: That's a Fabulous Handbag]

Miu Miu Handbags on eBay

One thing is certain in the designer fashion world right now: consumers are either cutting back on shopping budgets or reconsidering purchases altogether. Though there are a few labels managing to pull in somewhat decent numbers in recent quarters, some companies are having to change their strategies.

Some people might consider Givenchy's decision to launch a new capsule collection a bit on the crazy side given the current economy. However, it just might be the smartest move they make.

Creative director Riccardo Tisci is going back to what made Givenchy great, like a modern twist on the classic white shirt. The first items from brand-new Redux collection, full of white blouses and studded handbags, were seen in June with the label's Resort 2010 show and will be shown in the future twice a year with pre-collections.

Redux fashion will hit stores in October with items starting right around $350.

[Source: fashionologie]

Givenchy Handbags on eBay

The resort collections have been going on for what seems like months, and we've been scouring the runways for the best bags and hottest trends for winter 09-10. Clutches are still big: literally and figuratively. The handheld bags that remain popular aren't your typical cocktail party, fit-in-the-crook-of-your-arm fare. They're a handful. The upside is that they fit handfuls of stuff like wallets and makeup bags that we once never dreamed of stuffing into a clutch.

The Sonia Rykiel Roped-Off Clutch is a great example of the silhouettes we're seeing on runways in both clutches and shoulder bags. A sort of vintagy, squared-off shape is being shown often with large flap closures, prominent trim and oversize pockets.

The trim on the Roped-Off Clutch is, you guessed it, rope. This is actually a great trend to hop on during the summer if you don't think "resort season" this winter is actually going to take you to sunny climes. Two front pockets add a sort of geometric aesthetic and are secured under the flap.

Other designers to feature squared-off clutches and bags for Resort '10 include Proenza Schouler and Balenciaga.

[Source: Refinery29]

More Features Of The Sonia Rykiel Roped-Off Clutch

• Buckle closure
• Oversize silhouette
• Available for Resort '10

Find Rope-Detail Handbags Now

• Buy the Dooney & Bourke Signature Rope Tote in Navy at Amazon
• Check out rope-detail handbags on eBay (see listings below)

• Check the Bagsetc eBay store to see if rope-detail handbags are in stock
• Search online for rope-detail bags

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Chanel's most recent resort show made its debut in Italy on Thursday night. The models sauntered down a casual outdoor boardwalk as guests watched from their wooden chairs in the sand.

The newest collection channeled old-world Venice in all of its glory. Female models wore retro bob wigs as they showcased the latest Chanel fashions. Striped knits were a big hit of the evening along with flowy prints.

The newest purses from the luxury label varied in size and style, all keeping with the vintage-like feel, though. Among the mix were ruched leather clutches, hatbox-shaped totes, and one particularly enviable and beach-ready striped handbag with a cut-out handle.

Karl Lagerfeld gave his thoughts on the evening's inspiration:

“Venice has a genuine dark and mysterious side to it that fascinated me. I really like the Italian spirit and the Venetian lifestyle,” said Lagerfeld, sporting a royal blue jacket, white shirt and skinny black pants. “And let’s not forget that Coco Chanel came back to Venice for 10 years.”

Click here to see photos of the Venetian-clad models on the runway.

[Source: WWD]
[Image: marcokalmann/Flickr]

Chanel Handbags on eBay

The rumors were right: Peter Copping has jumped ship from Louis Vuitton to step into Olivier Theysken's very large shoes. The designer has been formerly named the new creative director of Nina Ricci.

Peter is currently working on a resort collection for the fashion label which we'll see in June. But we won't see his work on the runway until next March. This will give Peter enough time to immerse himself in the fashion house before making a splash at Paris Fashion Week.

Early whisperings wonder how Peter can ever measure up to the acclaim Olivier achieved. His relationship with Nina Ricci wasn't always smooth, and commercial success didn't always match the critical acclaim. But there was no ignoring an Olivier Theyskens' line. Yet the bigwigs at the Puig Fashion Group, which owns Nina Ricci, are standing by their man.

"I think Peter's very tuned into the consumer [who is] a very real woman," Puig head Mario Grauso said.

Apparently Peter plans to focus on the tailoring Nina Ricci is known for, and to expand the brand's handbag lines. Apparently Nina Ricci has poached a few of Peter's ex-Louis Vuitton colleagues to help him achieve this goal. If nothing else, that's great news for bag lovers!

[Source: New York Magazine]
[Image Source: Mihimaru/Flickr]

Nina Ricci Handbags on eBay

Looking for the perfect bag to brighten up your wardrobe and transition to spring fashion? Well, if you don't have the extra cash lying around to get a luxury designer option, you can always take your chances with a giveaway.

Fashion shopping community ideeli.com is holding one such competition for their subscribers. A lucky winner will receive an Oscar de la Renta Indore Box handbag originally seen on the spring/summer 09 runway at New York Fashion Week.

The structured tote is made from white raffia and leather with a unique Indian pattern on the sides. I'm sure I couldn't carry it off quite like model Agyness Deyn did with her matching white dress and shades, but I wouldn't mind giving it a shot.

Ideeli.com is an invite-only fashion site, so you'll need to click here and sign-up before submitting your entry on the giveaway page. Alas, the giveaway is only open to U.S. residents, so please read the rules carefully before entering.

For an added bonus, if you also sign-up to receive e-mail updates from Oscar de la Renta, you'll automatically be entered to win two tickets to their Resort 2010 show. The Indore Box competition ends in just a few days, so get in while you can and check back on ideeli.com for future giveaways.

[Source: ideeli.com]

Oscar de la Renta Handbags on eBay

Even our favorite handbag designers can take a misstep. This Tree Leaf tote bag from Proenza Schouler is proof of that!

I know it's part of the designer's Target collection, but is that any reason to skimp on the style? It’s got none of the chic and subtle good looks we're used to seeing from bags like the PS1.

Instead, this tote is colorful and casual. The pale pink canvas finish is accented with purple tree leaves for a tropical feel. It's not a sophisticated design, but one that's entirely appropriate for heading to the beach or lazing around a resort. But the problem is that this Proenza Schouler purse is uncharacteristically overdone. Tan leather edging might make this tote more durable, but the color gives the purse a mismatched look. The purple leather strip at the top of the bag also clashes, but not in a good way.

While this handbag's looks might let it down, its functionality will win fans. There's enough space inside for a beach towel and flip flops, and the handy front pocket can securely hold your jewelry while you're swimming.

I do like the look of the dark wooden handles, but I can't say I'd want to carry them. They look smooth enough, but if you overstuff your bag don't expect these hard handles to be comfortable.

This Proenza Schouler tote bag has its flaws, but it's an affordable alternative or those who can't afford the designer's high-end accessories. Personally, I'd rather save my pennies.

More Features of This Proenza Schouler Tree Leaf Handbag

• Cotton lined interior
• Measures 16 x 19 inches
• $39.99 retail price

Beach Tote Bags on eBay

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Maybe it's a little early, but all the retail signs of spring are here: the resort collections are starting to show up in stores, last year's models of everything are on sale, and pastels are everywhere. Okay, well, maybe not everywhere. I, for one, am still fully engaged in my all-black winter wardrobe program, but I am thinking ahead to the moment when the knee high boots are replaced with strappy sandals.

And in that thinking, I have come across what may become one of spring's most perfect pastel accessories: the Marc by Marc Jacobs Dot Bowler Bag. It has all the cute I want out of a spring fling, without getting saccharine about it. I love the rounded update of the traditional bowler shape, and the way the soft, supple leather enhances it. The pleating is a genius detail that gives the Dot an almost hobo softness, but the structural design keeps the handbag in line.

The mint green is delicate and lovely, and will complement spring shades beautifully. Or, if you want it right now, it would be a great way to add a soft pinch of color to your own dark winter palette. I love the crinkly texture of the leather and the way that the Dot's overall softness is balanced by the classic shape and shiny silver hardware. 

The dual straps fasten to the sides of the main compartment with adorable oversized buttons. There is a front compartment with the visible turnlock closure. The flap top covers the front pocket and the zipped main compartment. The 7" x 11" x 14" size shows that this season's oversized trend isn't abating, and women will be carrying luggage-sized accessories for at least one more season.

Soft, pastel, oversized, and classic, the Dot has a lot going for it. I just can't wait for the weather to match its bright, optimistic mood!

More Features Of The Marc by Marc Jacobs Dot Bowler

• Internal zipper compartment and pouch pockets
• Signature print lining
• Protective metal feet on base

Marc Jacobs Bowlers On eBay

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Here's a high-priced, kitschy bag for the upcoming holiday season. It's an over indulgent handbag from Louis Vuitton.

Priced just shy of $2000, the Galliera Riviera, named after the French Riviera (how snobbishly appropriate), is a canvas hobo-style bag that features a rather vibrant illustration of the famed French resort locale, an adjustable leather shoulder strap and an open top with magnetic closure.

A plus for this special collection design is the large 20 x 13.5 x 8 size, yet its' generous dimensions cannot make up for what amounts to a very pricey, one-trick-pony of a bag. Still, if you collect LV and have the extra cash to spend, I suppose it'll make a rather cute, attention-grabbing day bag. Just restrict its' use to a cruise ship or the French Riviera itself.

• Louis Vuitton Galliera Riviera available for $1940 via eLUXURY

(Originally written by Dania P.: Louis Vuitton Galliera Riviera Canvas Bag)

Published Under Creative Commons

Louis Vuitton Canvas Bags on eBay

The new Coach Resort Collection offers quite a mix of earth tones and bright, showy fabrics. One of the more vibrant options is the Madison Graphic Op Art Sabrina handbag. This is definitely not one of Coach's naturally-colored leather purses. The Graphic Op Art fabric, which is available on more than one bag shape, stands out from the crowd with its multicolored pattern.

It's not what I typically expect from Coach, but the bag has a certain appeal to it. It seems a little fussy at first glance and is a bit overwhelming to take in all at once. However, the Sabrina shape is classic, and there are some outfits that could look great when accessorized with a bright handbag like this one. Although it was recently unveiled, I see myself carrying it more during the spring and summer months.

The Graphic Op Art Sabrina is definitely meant for daytime and won't go with everything you own, but there are details that make it very appealing. The crinkled patent leather trim and handles looks trendy. The signature Coach "C" pattern on the fabric has delicate stitching around each letter shape. Another popular detail is the detachable strap that can be worn on the shoulder or across the body. I could do without the excess of Coach tags hanging from one of the handle rings, but I realize that some designer divas love that sort of thing.

Inside you'll find a zippered pocket and fabric lining. The classic Coach logo and emblem shine on the front leather panel. Like many other Coach bags, the Madison Graphic Op Art Sabrina is reasonably priced at $358. For a designer handbag with lots of personality, that's not a bad deal.

More Features of the Op Art Sabrina

• Measures 12 x 7.5 x 4.75 inches
• Double handles with 5 inch drop
• Detachable strap measuring 24 inches
• Zip top closure

Coach Madison Graphic Op Art Sabrinas on eBay

• See more from the my99shop store on eBay
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