Bottega Veneta Cushion Bag | Unique Black Leather Mosaico Cervo Handbag

Posted on: Nov 18

I've seen so many woven handbags from Bottega Veneta that they're almost starting to get boring. So I was excited to see this very different looking purse from the Italian fashion house.

It's not just a new look for Bottega Veneta. The Cushion Bag looks like no bag I've ever seen more, and when you see as many handbags as I do that's really saying something. There are many different Cushion Bag styles in Bottega Veneta's catalog, but the one that's really won my heart is the Mosaico Cervo. The name comes from the embroidered leather finish which looks like tiny mosaic tiles. The tiles sit close together on the sides of the bag, before becoming scattered haphazardly along the top. The texture makes it hard to look away, so don't be surprised if you turn a few heads carrying this baby.

The bag opens with two zips positioned between the rolled shoulder straps. I wish the zipper didn't extend quite so far, as it interrupts the purse's sexy curves, but it does mean you can open the cushion bag wide. A leather trimmed zipper pocket and an open pouch help keep your girly goods in order.

Bottega Veneta purses never come cheap, and this stunning cushion bag is no exception. At $4,380, this is one expensive piece of arm candy, but that shouldn't come as any surprise to those who worship at the Bottega Veneta alter.

More Features of This Bottega Veneta Mosaico Cervo Bag

  • Suede lined interior
  • Dual rolled handles with a 6.5 inch drop
  • Measures 17 inch diameter and 4 inches tall

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Posted in Black, Bottega Veneta, Shoulder Bags | 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 »

Mad Imports Ariel Clutch | Shaded Fold-Over Raffia Purse

Posted on: Nov 10

Here we have yet another rather wonderful raffia purse from Mad Imports. Experts in raffia and other such eco-friendly materials, the brand's purses tend towards interestingly combined colors and shades.

This fold-over clutch is no different. The woven raffia weaves the blue and green shades together in an intricate wave, leading from the thin elegant base up towards the very simple fold over top. I do think a button would have added an extra feature, but some will prefer the smooth undisturbed lines.

Of course, no matter how pretty this bag is, I need to mention the disadvantages of raffia. After all, it is well known for falling apart easier than leather alternatives, so needs to be treated with delicacy. A clutch does afford the ability to do this as it doesn't swing wildly on your shoulder, but even so the lifespan is shorter.

That said, this purse is perfect for holiday wear, whether for traipsing the beaches in the day or taking to the restaurant in the evening. With that in mind the light cotton lining and breathable raffia work in this purse's favor, as is Mad Imports' way.

More Features of this Mad Imports Ariel Clutch

  • Woven raffia exterior
  • Button closure
  • Folded envelope style
  • Available in five color combinations

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Posted in Blue, Clutch, Green, Mad Imports | Tell Us What You Think »

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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Salvatore Ferragamo Marisa Bag | Stylish Black Calf Leather Handbag

Posted on: Oct 28

Salvatore Ferragamo keeps it simple with the Marisa, a timeless black leather carryall.

It's crafted from supple calf leather, which feels so soft to the touch. This luxurious fabric gives the Marisa, with its gentle pleats, just a hint of slouch. While it's an opulent choice, it's not an ostentatious one. While croc and ostrich draw the eye, calfskin is subtle. This gives the Marisa the versatility you need to travel from the board room to cocktails after quitting time.

Some may be disappointed in the lack of colors available, but black really is the best choice. There's that versatility we spoke of earlier, but it's also about the look. No other shade would see the silver hardware pop quite as much. The belted accents at the sides and fold key-lock are inspired touches, ensuring the Marisa becomes more than just another basic black bag.

A zipper hides underneath the front flap. It might seem a little superfluous when you're in a hurry, but I appreciate the double dose of security. After all, anyone carrying Salvatore Ferragamo probably has some things worth protecting!

As with so many Salvatore Ferragamo bags, the biggest stumbling block here is the price. $1390 isn't completely exorbitant in the world of high-end European fashion, but it's not chump change either.

More Features of This Salvatore Ferragamo Black Leather Bag

  • Lined with black and silver logo print nylon
  • A zippered pocket, cell phone slip, and open pocket inside
  • Dual 19 inch rolled handles with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 17 x 9 x 4 inches
  • Made in Italy

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Nahui Ollin Barhandle Satchel | Medium Eco-Friendly Recycled Candy Wrapper Handbag

Posted on: Oct 24

Many of Nahui Ollin’s cute candy wrapper purses are for girls who travel light. This Barhandle Satchel shows the eco-friendly designer is just as skilled at working on a larger scale.

Larger is a relative term though. Packrats shouldn't pick this up expecting a substitute for their well-worn oversized carryall. It's a medium-sized satchel, but one that probably holds a little less than the average. The woven candy wrappers are surprisingly strong, but you don't want to test them by overstuffing. Besides, with no pockets to keep the interior organized, extra luxuries will only create clutter.

Like any Nahui Ollin, the greatest drawcard is that adorable candy wrapper finish which makes each one a true original. This floral print is perfect for girls craving spring, while the barcode pattern has a chic monochrome look. The straight leather straps give the Barhandle its name. They look so striking, but they mean you will have to carry this satchel by hand. Thankfully the candy-wrapper fabric is more lightweight than leather or PVC.

The Barhandle has its limitations, but green girls looking to upsize their Nahui Ollin collection will probably find a way to work around them!

More Features of This Nahui Ollin Recycled Candy Wrapper Satchel

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 1 inch drop
  • Measures 8 x 8 inches
  • Made in Mexico

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Sondra Roberts Patent Leather Shoulder Bag | Woven Spacious Dual Handled Baguette

Posted on: Oct 21

Warm dark colors are perfect for the coming winter season, designed to stay out the rain and keep your belongings cosy. This patent purse from Sondra Roberts is available in chocolaty brown and rich burgundy, to help you through the encroaching winter nights.

The patent may actually be a little too glossy for many people. but the woven textured leather design adds a third dimension that pulls this baguette back from the brink of tacky. The over-sized matching buckles and fasteners complete this rescue, producing quite a sophisticated design!

Whilst there is no long handle to make this shoulder bag all the more functional, there are actually a few added bonuses that make this so much easier to use. The reinforced base is a great addition, as is the durable gray lining.

Thought has been put into this, even if the number of pockets added is a little sparse!

More Features of this Sondra Roberts New York Woven Purse

  • Grosgrain lining
  • Single interior pocket
  • U-shaped zipper opening for easy access
  • Metal feet for durability

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Posted in Brown, Burgundy, Shoulder Bags, Sondra Roberts | Tell Us What You Think »

Linea Pelle Juliana Shoulder Bag | Black Casual Woven Leather Hobo Style Handbag

Posted on: Oct 20

It seems like every handbag brand has its take on the woven trend. But they don't all have to cost the prices of a Bottega Venetta. At $430, Linea Pelle's Juliana represents great value.

The price might not be exactly cheap and cheerful, but it's entirely reasonable for a woven purse crafted from washed Italian lambskin. Using such a soft skin allows Linea Pelle to create an incredibly intricate weave that is really quite stunning. That delicate finish combines with a relaxed slouchy profile to create a bag ready to make the transition from day to night.

The generous sized interior is organized with a large zippered pocket and multifunctional slip. Two smaller slip pouches would have been a more practical choice, as they'd snugly hug a cell phone and MP3 player. I'm really not sure what I'd use this large open pocket for, as things are bound to simply slip out into the main compartment. At least there’s a zip top closure to keep your goodies safe when they do!

In time-honored shades like black and tobacco brown, the Juliana is bound to become a wardrobe staple.

More Features of This Linea Pelle Woven Shoulder Bag

  • Brass hardware
  • Black cotton lined interior
  • A single shoulder strap with a 12 inch drop
  • Measures 15 x 10 inches

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Lauren Merkin Croc Tatum Clutch | Patent Leather Embossed Orange Purse

Posted on: Oct 19

Lauren Merkin purses are red carpet favorites, but with the Tatum she's created a clutch that's more rock and roll than Hollywood glamor.

The secret is the patent leather finish, which is given an extra dose of attitude with bold mock croc embossing. The finish isn't likely to fool anybody into thinking you've snared a genuine exotic, but I'm not sure it's meant to. Rather than imitate the real deal, Lauren Merkin creates a cool, modern texture with her scaly skin. We've seen the Tatum's pleated shape before in raffia, but this modern polished finish makes the purse seem like an entirely different breed!

It's certainly not an oversized clutch, but there’s enough space inside for party essentials. Just be sure not to cram in more than the Tatum can easily carry. The thick patent leather is bound to show bumps and bulges if pushed beyond capacity.

This orange Tatum is the most outrageous of the range, but I think it suits the purse's punk-rock personality. Black has the same rock and roll edge, although it's taken down a notch. If this still screams too loud, you might like to opt for the subdued gray clutch.

More Features of This Lauren Merkin Croc Embossed Clutch

  • Inside zippered pocket
  • Frame closure
  • Signature striped shimmer lining
  • Measures 13.5 x 7 x 2 inches
  • Made in New York City

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Rampage Hazel Hobo | Quilted Synthetic Handbag with Drawstring and Woven Detail

Posted on: Oct 9

Rampage is a typically affordable handbag brand but one that sometimes doesn't quite hit the mark for my personal taste. The pretty Michelle clutch is one of their styles that I can applaud, whereas the Amber tote is a bit too much like a circus tent for me.

That's why I was somewhat surprised to find this Hazel Hobo within a list of recent Rampage releases. Although I'm not sure what brands I might have placed it with, Rampage definitely would not have been one of them. There's a unique design sensibility to the Hazel that stands out as somehow both simple yet detailed.

Though certainly not the only color combination available, this light gray with brown is so appealing in its subtlety really allowing the details on the front to stand out. The quilted stitching on the synthetic leather is accentuated by the thin patent strips woven throughout. I was very disappointed to find that the interesting woven detail is not continued on the back of the hobo bag, but at least the quilting is repeated instead of having a plain back.

The opening of the purse closes with a magnetic snap, but there's also a functional drawstring that loops through the top of the hobo and allows you to cinch in the sides for either a little extra security or just a different shape. This Rampage Hazel bag retails for $98.

More Features of the Hazel Hobo

  • Measures 16 x 13 x 4 inches
  • Single strap with 8.5 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Tassel detail

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Posted in Brown, Gray, Rampage | Tell Us What You Think »