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

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

50 Unusually Bold and Bizarre Bags 11-20

Posted on: Nov 16

Eco-Friendly Purse

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Some people rinse and recycle plastic bottles, but an Austrian Industrial Design had another idea. Miulein cut the bottoms off of two bottles, connected them with a zipper and made this sweet little green change purse. It's cute and you do your part to save the planet! When I think of this purse though, I remember of how easily plastic two liters are crushed.

Cops and Donuts

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This purse appears to be a part of a costume or gag (we hope). The handcuffs may not have been the best choice of handle for comfort, but cops and donuts definitely go together like pigs and mud. This bag illustrates that wonderfully by attaching a pair of handcuffs to a yummy looking strawberry glazed donut. And not to mention, the sprinkle beads are a lovely touch. No, really, who doesn't love sprinkles?
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50 Unusually Bold and Bizarre Bags

Posted on: Nov 16

To me, there's just something special about a high quality leather purse or bag. They are traditional, durable and never go out of style. However, not everyone is satisfied with commonplace purses and some like to carry standout handbags that are far from ordinary. Here's a look at 50 bags that stray from the beaten path. Love them or hate them, there is no denying that they are unique. Each is made with rather unusual materials, or fashioned to look like something it is not. As you'll see, this type of creativity in design produces purse styles ranging from cute to tragic.

Farm Animal in Chaps

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This lovely purse was spotted at TJ Maxx. No idea what look designer Diane Gail was going for, but there's no doubt that she nailed "Farm Animal Wearing Chaps" with this one. Not sure if the pattern of the animal hide was lined up this way on purpose, but it reminds me of that one bad night I had at a Biker Bar with a cow.
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Sondra Roberts Nevis Hobo | Chevron Multi Woven Brown Handbag

Posted on: Oct 29

I've seen many designers attempt to reinvent the popular hobo handbag, but none have done it quite like Sondra Roberts.

The slouchy, relaxed profile we've come to expect is gone, replaced by a structured curved body. But the bohemian vibe isn't abandoned entirely, with natural canvas and twine fabrics woven together for an earthy feel. I love the wide vertical stripes created by the complementary fibers. The materials are casual, but the curved leather piping dresses things up a little. It's never going to be red carpet ready, but if you pair it with the right outfit it'd definitely suit a dinner date.

It's also got the space to make that day-to-night transition. You could easily carry a change of clothes and the cosmetics case you need to make the switch! There's also space for the essentials, with two open top pockets taking care of your gadgets and a zippered pocket for loose change and valuables.

I'm not sure the choice of natural fibers quite justifies the $310 retail price, but at least this purse has the style and quality craftsmanship to last a few seasons.

More Features of This Sondra Roberts Woven Hobo

  • Zipper closure with leather pull-tie
  • Fully lined in tan fabric
  • Leather base
  • A flat leather 21 inch handle with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 21 x 10 x 3 inches
  • Comes with a sleeper bag
  • Imported

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Forzieri Capaf Wicker Basket | Funky Retro Inspired Straw Handbag

Posted on: Oct 14

Forzieri has produced a cool little handbag with this monochromatic Capaf wicker purse.

The shape, first off, is exciting. Square and chunky, this purse is reminiscent of vintage styling and 60s fashion, all interspersed with memories of picnic baskets and childhood days out. If the nostalgia hasn't sold it to you already, Forzieri brings it up-to-date with the glossy patent leather and oversized square clasp.

Trendy good looks aside, we all know the flaws of wicker handbags. Easily broken, they require looking after. If you care enough, however, then the retro looks can last for a good amount of time. Simply make sure that you don't overstuff them, as the inflexible wicker doesn't take kindly to being battered and abused!

In an unusual design and color combination that is always on trend, Forzieri has really gone all out to make a wicker handbag that stands out from the crowd, even if it only stands out a little! Would you pay over $400 for it though?

More Features of this Forzieri Wicker Basket Bag

  • Straw/wicker Exterior
  • Fabric lined
  • Patent handles and clasp

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Posted in Black, Bucket, Clutch, Retro, Vintage, White | Tell Us What You Think »

Fossil Kristy Floral Satchel | Colorful Patterned Cotton Canvas Bag

Posted on: Oct 9

This bright patterned Kristy bag satchel from Fossil can easily add a little color to your everyday wardrobe.

The soft, round body reminds me a little of the Marni Balloon tote. Of course, the cloth body means it's not nearly as luxurious, or pricy. The bold, abstract pattern won't suit every taste, but it's a lot of fun. So I'm not sure why Fossil breaks it up with a wide woven brown band. I suppose this plain fabric tones the bag down a little, but it also makes the design look a little cluttered.

The cotton canvas finish doesn't just keep the price down. It also makes the Kristy very light to carry. What a blessing in such a large bag! Even when it's full, this satchel isn't likely to weigh you down. The spacious interior is a challenge to keep organized, but zip and slip pockets do their best to help you out.

The wooden handles give the Kristy a little retro flair, but they're not very practical. Polished wood may be smooth, but it never feels good in your hand for very long. Thankfully the satchel comes with a longer, and more functional, shoulder strap. It's a little skinnier than I'd like, but it does the job. If you'd prefer to use the smaller handles, just detach the shoulder strap for a clean look.

More Features of This Fossil Patterned Satchel

  • Leather trim
  • A zippered pocket and 2 large slip pockets inside
  • Fabric lined interior
  • Silver-toned hardware
  • A signature Fossil key fob on leather zipper pull
  • Measures 19 x 12 x 4 inches

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Burberry Haymarket Woven Warrior Bag | Metallic Gold Slouchy Drawstring Handbag

Posted on: Oct 2

It often feels like if you've seen one Burberry plaid purse, you've seen them all. I start to long for something different. Then I see Burberry stray from that classic formula, and I yearn for those slightly boring bags!

The designs may not be revolutionary, but Burberry does the preppy plaid thing well. When the British label decides to be daring, it invariably falls apart. If you needed further proof, just look at this Haymarket Woven Warrior bag.

Woven leathers and drawstrings are the domain of casual purses. Glitzy metallic gold always looks ready for disco night. Combine these extremes and you might hope for a bag that's versatile enough to travel from day to night. But here the unexpected mix just results in a purse that doesn't readily suit any situation, or it's warrior name for that matter. Can woven fabric ever strike fear into the heart of any enemy?

The gold finish is just a little too brassy, and the trim too chunky. Drawstrings are always fiddly, especially when combined with a magnetic closure. The shoulder strap might be adjustable, but that matters little when the maximum drop is a measly six inches. I don't mind the interior, with its practical canvas lining and zippered pocket, but I'm clutching at straws.

I'm sure this shoulder bag will appeal to someone who likes their accessories large and loud, but personally I can think of much better ways to spend $1795.

More Features of This Burberry Woven Gold Bag

  • Gold-tone hardware
  • Measures 15 x 10 x 4 inches
  • Made in Italy
  • Comes with a dustbag

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Elaine Turner Nicole Handbag | Eco-Friendly Grasscloth Tote Bag with Embossed Croc Trim

Posted on: Sep 14

Green fashionistas are spoiled for choice these days, with cotton canvas, bamboo, straw, and vegan leather giving us plenty of alternatives to animal skins. Grasscloth may not have the profile of many other eco-friendly fabrics, but that makes bags like the Nicole so attractive.

The tightly woven cloth is crafted from several Asian grasses and fibers. The neutral fabric is dressed up with colorful mock-croc trim. No one will mistake these vibrant accents for genuine crocodile, but they do add a little pizzazz. In coral, the Nicole is ready for fall. It's also available in teal and a bright purple called raspberry.

The Nicole was made with women on the go in mind. The large zippered pocket up front is a handy place for stashing car keys and other essentials. The girly pink lined interior features a zippered pocket on one wall, and two slip pouches for gadgets on the other.

$295 seems a little expensive for the grasscloth and faux leather trim combo, but if you don't mind the price this is a cute carryall for casual days out.

More Features of This Elaine Turner Glasscloth Tote Bag

  • A recessed zip top closure
  • Custom crown hardware
  • Dual braided 18-inch handles with an 8-inch drop
  • Measures 16 x 2 x 9 inches

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Magid Classic Satin Evening Bag | Elegant Budget Clutch Purse with Tassel

Posted on: Sep 10

Magid is famous for its cheap and cheerful casual handbags, but with this Classic Satin Evening Bag the brand shows it can scrub up nicely. The most refreshing part is that even when glammed up, Magid still won't hurt your hip pocket.

I would never have guessed this polished purse was from Magid unless you told me. The sophisticated satin finish is a world away from the paper straw the brand usually favors. The traditional flap design is given an elegant makeover with a scalloped edge and tightly ruched center. A long delicate tassel peeks out from the side, giving the purse a slightly Middle Eastern feel.

The flap closes with a magnetic snap for security. The slim silhouette makes it easy to tuck this purse under your arm, but it will limit what you can stash inside. Thankfully the narrow width is offset by an elongated style for a little extra practicality. Another functional touch is the comfy cord strap. Unlike the chains we’re used to, this won't leave telltale marks on your bare shoulders!

The color choices are a little predictable, but black, silver, and champagne will always serve your evening wardrobe well. And for just $34, this purse is an affordable companion for a special night out.

More Features of This Magid Tassel Evening Bag

  • Fabric lined interior
  • An interior slide pocket
  • Measures 10 x 1.5 x 5 inches

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Magid Tie-Dyed Paper Straw Shopper | Cheap Colorful Boho Handbag

Posted on: Aug 31

This fun shopper shows us that tie-dyed fabrics don't have to look like hippie throwbacks. By keeping things subtle, Magid brings boho style that isn't stuck in the 60s.

The easy breezy look is accentuated by the paper straw finish. It's tightly woven for a little extra strength, but I still don't expect it to last very long. But at $38 retail, it won't cost too much to replace! The colorful tie-dyed look is continued throughout the handles, which are strangely removable. You couldn't easily carry this bag without them, so I wonder why Magid gave us the option!

Affordable handbags like this don't tend to come with a lot of extras, so I was pleasantly surprised to peek inside this one. It's lined in bright, satiny fabric, and there's a zippered pocket and a cell phone slip too. Turn the bag upside down and you'll even find some protective metal feet! That should make the straw exterior last a little longer.

The casual styling and candy colors of this Magid shopper mean you'll find it most useful in the warmer months. But don't put it in the back of your closet once winter strikes. It'll look cute carrying fresh produce home from the markets at any time of year!

More Features of This Magid Tie-Dye Shopper

  • Snap closure
  • Dual 19 inch handles with an 8 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 4.5 x 14.5 inches
  • Available in orange, fuschia, and turquoise

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Posted in Aqua, Magid, Orange, Pink, Shopper | Tell Us What You Think »