Steve Madden Ruffle Satchel | Spacious Abstract Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Nov 20

I am impressed by how top-end designer this ruffled satchel from Steven Madden actually looks.

I think it is the design that makes this reasonably affordable handbag look quite so posh. The ruffles aren't just layered like bags normally do, instead being cut from the same synthetic leather in unpredictable patterns. In an abstract way, they twist and contradict each other from handles to base.

A soon as you get out the handle shoulder strap this purse does start looking a little more high street. It is, after all, cut from vaguely coordinating canvas, and is more about function that it is about looks. If you want to look classy, I suggest you only use the shoulder strap when absolutely necessary - although it is nice to have the option.

Whilst the main handles are a little short for such a stocky satchel, I do love the way it looks. The gold hardware contrasting with the golden-pewter shade works particularly well, stopping that bag from looking dull and cold. Instead, this spacious purse looks warm and very smart.

All in all this is an attractively and deceptively designed shoulder-bag with both practicality and looks in mind.

More Features of this Steve Madden Abstract Bag

  • Available in black and pewter
  • Sytheic leather
  • Brown interior with pockets
  • Optional brown canvas shoulder-strap

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Posted in Pewter, Satchel, Shoulder Bags, Steve Madden | 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

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Posted in Black, Liz Claiborne, Wristlet | 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

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

Chinese Laundry Addison Double Handle Tote | Gathered Synthetic Bag with Buckled Detail

Posted on: Nov 16

The Chinese Laundry Addison Tote is a little confusing at first glance. The shape is both structured, yet gathered and slouchy at the same time. There's quite a bit going on with this handbag, but the blend of details is unique and interesting.

The Addison's relatively square silhouette, though a common feature of a tote, is given some depth with gathers and folds that culminate to a decorative buckled feature on one side of the front of the handbag. It has the appearance of being somewhat random and a little all over the place, but the gathered detail is given a purpose and placement with the addition of the buckle.

The back of the tote bag does not feature the same technique but does have a slightly loose look due to the gathered material around the handle rings. It complements the look of the front but offers a little relief from the detail, which could otherwise make the bag seem a tad overworked.

This Chinese Laundry design is available in a handful of neutral colors including brown, gray, and black. It might not be real leather, but the use of synthetic material prices it at an affordable $84.

More Features of the Addison Double Handle Tote

  • Measures 15.5 x 12 x 3 inches
  • Handles with 8 inch drop
  • Zip top closure

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Posted in Black, Brown, Chinese Laundry, Gray, Tote | 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

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

Be & D Garbo Clutch | Studded Gray Leather Purse

Posted on: Nov 16

Just in time to capitalize on the current taste for studs comes Be & D's reinvented 5th Anniversary Garbo collection. While the line features satchels and duffels, I think it works best on a smaller scale.

This little clutch almost overdoses on studs, with small nailhead studs and larger spiked ones working together to create an edgy look. Yet by keeping the bag small, it doesn't appear quite as overdone as it might. The subtle gray shade and simple flap design also work to tone down the look.

This clutch is of a decent size, so you shouldn't have any problems fitting your party must-haves inside. The zippered pocket is a nice secure addition, and the detachable chain strap brings another practical touch. You can wear it long across your body, double it over for shoulder carrying, or take it off old-fashioned clutching.

The $695 price tag is a little expensive for such a small purse, especially one with such a distinct look, but at least that money buys quality.

More Features of This Be & D Studded Clutch

  • Magnetic closure
  • Lined interior
  • A detachable strap with a 20 inch drop
  • Measures 6 x 10 x 1.5 inches
  • Made in the USA

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Hobo International Suzzette Satchel | Simple Black Leather Handbag with Dual Compartments

Posted on: Nov 13

As far as black leather satchels go, this one is nearly as simple as they come. I wouldn't exactly call it as dull as dishwater, as they say, but there's really not much about it that jumps out as extremely interesting.

Being a Hobo International design, you know that the Suzzette Satchel is going to be well-made and crafted from genuine leather, which is a definite appeal. However, it's not going to win any awards for originality or attract any shoppers who are looking for a statement piece.

The rounded shape is nice and somewhat contemporary. I'd even go as far as to call the Suzzette sleek and streamlined because of its lack of extra details besides handle rings.

The significant depth of the handbag is great for storage, but some might consider it a drawback since it could make the purse seem bulky against the body. The interior is quite practical, though, with two separate zippered compartments and a couple of smaller pockets.

If you're looking for a very simple style in a classic, versatile handbag color, the Suzzette will serve you well. Those looking for something original might want to stick with some of Hobo International's other designs like the Solano Tote.

More Features of the Suzzette Satchel

  • Measures 19 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches
  • Double handles with 9.5 inch drop
  • Dual zippered compartments

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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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Ed Hardy Tiara Wristlet | Bling Gold and Leather Metallic Clutch

Posted on: Nov 11

Every girl needs a little dose of bling in her life, and if you like gold metallic purses then this little leather wristlet may be just your cup of tea.

Subtle is probably not the buzzword for this golden clutch. The metallic decorative print stands out dramatically against the gray background, and even though it is small, it will still catch attention on a night out. Aesthetically, I personally prefer the black and gold version, but the gray and gold is a much more unusual shade combination.

Inside the color theme is continued with a functional cotton lining embellished even more with gold decoration. I worry that the complete article may border on tacky, as the large amount of studs, paint and buckles make it seem over decorated rather than intelligently planned.

That said, the back of this Ed Hardy wristlet is a simple solid gray, giving the option for versatility if you clutch it in reverse.

More Features of this Gold Bling Clutch

  • Available in black and gray
  • Red signature on reverse
  • Signature lining
  • Synthetic leather exterior

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Posted in Clutch, Ed Hardy, Gold, Gray, Wristlet | Tell Us What You Think »

Chinese Laundry Emma Bucket Bag | Large and Slouchy Synthetic Leather Purse with Studs

Posted on: Nov 9

When you're shopping for a decently sized handbag around the $100 mark, finding one made from genuine leather is beginning to be a rarity. There are a few exceptions to that, of course, but brands are mostly sticking to synthetics for that price range.

Though a little disappointing, I suppose it's not entirely surprising considering the size of some of these large handbags. This Chinese Laundry Emma Bucket bag, for instance, would probably cost quite a pretty penny more than $107 if it had been constructed using real pebbled leather instead of a faux leather material.

A leather-like texture can work well on purses, but I'm not sure I'm buying it on this one. The pebbled texture is a nice touch but is unfortunately cheapened a bit by the solid fake leather trim. The studs on the handle and the grommet holes decorating the sides provide a nice distraction from the less than perfect aspects of the Emma Bucket, though.  

Sometimes it's better to opt for true quality over size and get a smaller style made from real leather, but this type of purse is a viable option for when you need a big bag but don't want to spend too much on it. You might not get top quality, you definitely won't be lacking in storage space.

More Features of the Emma Bucket Bag

  • Measures 17 x 14.5 x 7.5 inches
  • Single handle with 10 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Faux leather

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Posted in Bucket, Chinese Laundry, Purple | Tell Us What You Think »