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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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

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Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tate | Sturdy Tote Bag with Logo Stitching

Posted on: Nov 19

I'm fairly certain that the words "pretty" and "nylon" don't go together all that often when it comes to high fashion, but evidently Marc Jacobs is attempting to change that with the Pretty Nylon Tate collection from his trendy designer line Marc by Marc Jacobs.

It's by no means the first time a designer brand has utilized nylon for a handbag. Even Kate Spade has gotten in on the action with her Coney Island Stevie Satchel. This use of the sturdy material on the Tate, however, is not particularly compelling to me despite its popular label.

The Pretty Nylon Tate is indeed made from durable, easy-to-take-care of nylon and could be called cute, in my opinion; but I'm just not completely sold on the pretty part. It's certainly not unattractive, but it's no Loopy Bow Pouchette or other feminine Marc by Marc Jacobs design.

On the other hand, I like the unique logo topstitching that covers the tote but doesn't stand out too much. It's just enough to add a little something to the simple design. The knotted handle rings are a nice touch as well. In addition to the practical material, the Pretty Nylon Tate has convenient double side pockets on the exterior as well as a very roomy lined interior for carrying around tons of stuff.

More Features of the Pretty Nylon Tate

  • Measures 21.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches
  • Magnetic closure
  • Signature logo topstitching

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Moschino Vernice Luce Tote | Luxury Designer Patent Shoulder Bga

Posted on: Nov 19

When you can get $4k off a bag in a sale, and it can still cost over $3k, you know that you have a really expensive bag. No surprise then that this sophisticated, yet understated, patent purse is from handbag icon, Moschino.

If you are a designer handbag addict who loves having a good name and reputation on her arm, then Moschino may well be the most dreamworthy name on your lips. Owning a bag like this is narrowed to only a few people with limited production lines, so you know that you have that exclusivity and are unlikely to bump into anyone wearing the same one.

The Vernice Luce shoulder bag is a great and smart day-to-day bag, perfect for office work as well as carrying folders and business plans. Equally, the patent leather dresses it up for nightfall, as does the cute heart clasp. You also pay for luxury, and this unusual shade will allow you to stand out from the crowd with the rich glossy color.

Of course, all these upsides are very well and good, but nothing other than the name is going to make a bag this expensive. Sure the leather is gorgeous and the satchel-esque doctors bag shape divine, but you could find this in another cheaper designer brand. This is a status symbol, even if the handles are a little too short, and as such should be treated accordingly!

More Features of this Luxury Moschino Shoulder Bag

  • Duel handles with gathered attachment
  • Heart twist lock clasp
  • Patent leather
  • Compartment in the interior

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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

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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

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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

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Botkier Taylor Satchel | Large Black Italian Leather Tasseled Handbag

Posted on: Nov 17

Finding a cross-body purse that can fit more than a wallet and keys can be challenging, but Botkier has stepped up to fill the fashion void with the Taylor.

This bohemian styled satchel is crafted from buttery soft Italian lambskin for that hobo-style slouch. Tiny pinched pleats create stripes from the top to the base. Thin, sparse tassels hang down to create a hippie vibe which is a little more sophisticated than heavy fringing can be.

The exterior doesn't feature any obvious branding, instead preferring to let the gold logo plate and signature lining inside do the talking. The zippered pocket and single cell phone slip probably aren't quite enough to keep a space of this size properly organized, but I'm willing to forgive that little misstep.

You've got the option of carrying the Taylor using the two shoulder straps, or the much longer cross-body one. Whichever way you wear it, the Taylor oozes hippie cool without looking like a Woodstock relic.

More Features of This Botkier Tasseled Satchel

  • Zip top closure
  • Dual handles with a 7.5 inch drop
  • A single shoulder strap with a 16.5 inch drop
  • Measures 17.5 x 5.5 x 11 inches
  • Comes with a dust bag
  • Made in Indonesia

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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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Hype Jackie Weekend Bag | Spacious Top-Zip Formal Satchel

Posted on: Nov 16

If you are heading away for the weekend, it is all too often the case that your clothes and belongings get relegated to that old carry-all that you used to use for sports when you were about 12. When space is necessary, however, there are plenty of options for keeping your fashion sense happy.

This Hype Jackie satchel is one such option. If you are only heading away for a day or two, this is spacious enough to store your vital items, as well as being neatly compartmentalized to let you sort everything and find things easily. It isn't big enough to carry belongings for a longer time period, but as a carry-on bag it is great.

Particularly worth mentioning regarding the slight over-chunky looks of this hold-all is the interior. In a bright bold contrasting fabric, this is a lovely touch that turns the functional into the fun. The over-sized buckles and fastenings are attractive too, as well as adding much needed functionality and security in addition to the zip.

All in all this is a spacious and handy bag with average yet unoffensive looks.

More Features of this Hype Jackie Satchel

  • Available in blue, black or brown
  • Leather exterior
  • Functional dual handles
  • Multiple interior compartments/pockets

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