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

Get this Carlos Falchi Snakeskin Handbag:

You may also be interested in:

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

Liz Claiborne Crocodile Wristlet | Traditional Vintage-Style Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

This Liz Claiborne wristlet brings posh and sophisticated class to an unusual shape.

Crocodile print, with its spacious pattern, is generally saved for bigger purses and vintage bags. To see it being used surprisingly effectively for a little clutch is a great change.

The styling of this wristlet is very vintage. Whilst wrist straps weren't common back then, everything else is so retro: the big gold buckle, the glossy patent leather. It is both evening wear and smart office wear, and brilliantly versatile.

I have to say that personally I am not convinced by the alternate bag color, branded "matte gold". Rather than being glamorous and mature, this color actually looks more murky dull brown. Not nice! In black it looks great though!

Whilst the looks of this bag are expensive, the materials aren't. And understandably so; you are only paying $40 for this, after all. With this in mind, however, and especially considering the thinness of the handle, I wouldn't hold out for this vintage clutch to last for many seasons. It is even less likely to last with all the wear it may just get!

More Features of this Liz Claiborne Traditional Wristlet

  • Available in gold or black
  • Patent leather exterior
  • Gray interior
  • Convertible strap

Get this Crocodile Print Clutch:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Black, Liz Claiborne, Wristlet | Tell Us What You Think »

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

Get this B. Makowsky Brasilia Bag:

B MAKOWSKY BLACK CROCO BRASILIA E W SATCHEL NWTS B MAKOWSKY BLACK CROCO BRASILIA E W SATCHEL NWTS
US $159.99   Paypal
Auction Ends: 25d 17h 1m
Make it yours...
B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT B MAKOWSKY Gorgeous Vachetta BRASILIA E W Bag NWT
US $103.50   3 Bids Paypal
Auction Ends: 1d 15h 49m
Make it yours...

You may also be interested in:

Posted in B. Makowsky, Black, Blue, Brown, Satchel, Shopper | 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

Get this Bulga Misa Handbag:

You may also be interested in:

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

Guess Lulin Mini Clutch | Feminine and Delicate Leather Bow Purse

Posted on: Nov 17

Guess has gone all out with this tiny little clutch to make it as delicate, feminine and girly as possible, and the brand may just have achieved its ambitions.

By keeping this clutch as a mini bag, Guess have avoided making this bag an over-the-top pink nightmare. In small doses, and with a well-planned outfit, this could actually look pretty and stylish.

Pink aside, the cute looks of this bag are adorable. The bow is structural and strangely origami, and acts as a great focal point for a simple square looking bag. You then have the bow in combination with the subtle yet textured crocodile or snakeskin pattern leather.

Of course, this bag is very pink, and this bag is very small. But if you need a cute little evening bag that will look just as good with jeans as it will with a vintage outfit, then this might be the saccharine sweet purse for you.

More Features of this Guess Lulin Clutch:

  • Also available in Ivory
  • Vinyl leather
  • Crocodile print exterior
  • Single interior pocket

Get this Feminine Bow Mini-Bag:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Clutch, Guess, Mini, Pink | Tell Us What You Think »

Big Buddha Mia Handbag | Affordable Synthetic Snakeskin Rose Bag

Posted on: Nov 17

In the tradition of Valentino's Rose handbags comes this more affordable, yet far less luxurious, Big Buddha Mia bag.

If your budget can stretch, I'd pass this one over for the Valentino alternative. While the rose is just as flirty and feminine, the stiff synthetic doesn't fall as softly as an authentic leather would. The snakeskin finish is also a little too garish for this already heavily decorated look. While the colors are sedate, a plain fabric would have made the large ruffled flower appear a little more elegant.

But it's not all bad news. The traditional domed satchel shape maximizes the space available, while pockets inside and out help your belongings stay organized. The curved carrying handles are cute, but they'd be a little awkward to use once your satchel's loaded up. That’s when the longer strap comes into play, allowing you to sling the Mia over your shoulder or across your entire body.

I may prefer the similar Valentino purse, but not everyone can afford to drop a few thousand dollars on a satchel. At just $85 the Mia does a fairly credible impersonation of the more expensive accessory.

More Features of This Big Buddha Rose Handbag

  • Top zip entry
  • Fabric lined interior
  • An interior zip pocket, slide pocket, and cell phone pocket
  • An exterior zip pocket
  • Measures 15 x 5 x 5 inches

Get this Big Buddha Mia Handbag:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Big Buddha, Black, Brown, Gray, Pink, Replica Handbags, Satchel | Tell Us What You Think »

Straw Studios Woven Basket | Contrasting Snakeskin Retro Clutch

Posted on: Nov 16

I am always on the lookout for a brilliant little piece of handbag art, and this synthetic leather and straw clutch is one of my favorite recent finds.

A cute straw basket bag always goes down well in vintage and retro inspired circles. The effect is especially strong when you have a piece like this, which adds flare and a fashion twist with the addition of a snakeskin faux leather buckle and trim.

Although the looks are downright stunning and so individual, there are a few limitations that can't be avoided. Firstly, looks aren't everything, and although the bag costs $63 you don't get any decent materials. The leather is thin and fake, and the straw wicker won't last beyond a few seasons. If you are seeking a unique handbag that will last you for life, this Straw Studios purse probably won't cut the mustard.

If your expectations are slightly lower, however, then this funky clutch with its paisley lining will do you fine, whether for wearing in the sun next summer or for dressing up a vintage evening outfit.

More Features of this Straw Studios Vintage Clutch

  • Paisley interior lining
  • Available in brown or black
  • Optional chain handle

Get this Retro Woven Purse:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Brown, Clutch, Retro, Straw Studios, Vintage | Tell Us What You Think »

Bally Cabala-E Traditional Tote | Spacious Slouchy Luxury Purse

Posted on: Nov 11

This is a Bally bag that Bally can be proud of. As some of the most expensive and desirable purses on the market, Bally bags always ooze glamor and luxury, and this huge spacious tote is no exception.

This soft leather hold-all is designed to last forever, from the quality leather to the artistic workmanship. For $1800 you expect nothing less than perfection, and the fantastically sculpted lines suggest that the Bally designers have done their utmost to make that the case.

This tote, with its slouchy shape and space, is great for carrying your belongings through day and night. With the huge and versatile capacity, however, I am surprised that the handles are so small. Despite the shape hinting at heavy loads to be carried, I get the impression that this status symbol bag is more about looks than actually being used. Somehow, although it isn't unexpected, I feel disappointed that such a fabulous bag doesn't quite live up to its hugely posh expectations.

Whatever the little hesitations, however, this is a true Bally bag. It is sophisticated and classy, and perfect for work or play. Taking you seamlessly from day to night, I love it!

More Features of this Bally Cabala-E Handbag

  • Available in purple and black
  • Belted/drawn closure
  • Snakeskin exterior
  • Short handles

Get this Spacious Traditional Tote:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Bally, Black, Purple, Tote | Tell Us What You Think »

Anya Hindmarch Marano Purse | Elegant Gold Leather Box Clutch

Posted on: Nov 11

Anya Hindmarch keeps it chic and simple with the stylish Marano clutch.

The back to basics box design appears like polished metal from a distance, but it's actually made from gold leather. That should make it a little lighter to carry, and it's a good thing too because the Marano doesn't come with one of those convenient tuck-away chains.

While I'm griping about the practical limitations, it's worth commenting about the size. It's on the small side, and its structured shape means you simply can't over-stuff it. You may fit your keys and cards inside, but don't be surprised if you need to leave a few of your favorite items at home.

It might not be Anya Hindmarch's most practical creation, but it's hard not to love the Marano's simple good looks. From the smooth curved lines to the modern metal fastener, this is a bag that can impress without taking focus away from your evening attire.

More Features of This Anya Hindmarch Box Clutch

  • A small internal pocket
  • Suede lined interior
  • Measures 7 x 4 x 2 inches

Get this Anya Hindmarch Marano Purse:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Anya Hindmarch, Clutch, Gold | Tell Us What You Think »

Whiting & Davis Iridescent Boa Foldover Clutch | Mesh and Snakeskin Printed Leather Handbag

Posted on: Nov 8

This Whiting & Davis handbag is just the sort of shiny thing that would attract a magpie. With its combination of gleaming brass mesh material and shimmery printed leather, the Iridescent Boa Foldover Clutch is certainly no wallflower of a handbag.

It is, however, infinitely appropriate for cocktail parties and other dressy events where you can make a statement with gleaming accessories. To be honest, it's not really what I'm used to seeing from the brand since Whiting & Davis bags often have a vintage vibe. Some of the label's recent details have been veering toward the contemporary, though, and I'd place the Boa Foldover clutch somewhere in between the two extremes.

Snakeskin and other exotic prints are quite the rage right now, placing this handbag right on trend. The effect here seems to be more about the shimmer than the texture, however.

I always like a foldover bag design, but Whiting & Davis made this one ever more interesting by mixing up the materials. The top half, which displays the handbag's modern cutout handles but also folds down when used as a clutch, is constructed from the prismatic snake-printed leather. Underneath that, the bottom half is made from the brand's signature brass metal mesh material in solid black. Although I wouldn't call it a very versatile look, this Iridescent Boa Foldover Clutch could go a long way for party attire.

More Features of the Iridescent Boa Foldover Clutch

  • Measures 11 x 5.75 x 1.75 inches
  • Cutout handles with 1.5 inch drop
  • Foldover style
  • Retail price of $195

Get this Whiting & Davis Foldover Bag:

You may also be interested in:

Posted in Black, Clutch, Whiting & Davis | Tell Us What You Think »