Mulberry has enjoyed more success, posting an increased pre-tax profit of £15.6 million in the last six months, up from £4.7 million in the period prior.

Those profits saw the fashion house’s revenue increase by 62% to £72.3 million, compared with £44.7 million in 2010. Retail sales were also up by 47%, while wholesale shipments rose a massive 93%.

No doubt these excellent results were helped by the opening of Mulberry’s latest flagship store in New York during September, and the launch of five new boutiques in the Asia-Pacific region. The label also finished the expansion work on its Somerset factory in September, a measure which created 60 new jobs and increased the plant’s production capacity by 30%.

Looking forward, Mulberry’s chairman and chief executive Godfrey Davis says his fashion house plans to continue expanding in international markets.

“Against the backdrop of economic uncertainty, Mulberry continues to build market share internationally and we remain cautiously optimistic about the future prospects of the business,” he explained.

Nine new Mulberry stores will open in the second half of the current financial year as part of the brand’s international strategy.

It hasn’t forgotten about its British roots though. After it received £2.5 million from the Regional Growth Fund in October, Mulberry set about building a handbag factory in Bridgwater. This latest plant should create 250 jobs in the local area.

[Source: Insider Media Limited]
[Image Source: My Fashion Life]

Mulberry Bags on eBay

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Christian Dior seems to have taken inspiration from a chef’s hat when creating this Granville shoulder bag.

I apologize for making that comparison, I really do. I know that once the image is in your mind it’s very hard to shake. But for the purposes of giving this bag a fair, non-food related review, I’ll do my best. The Granville’s shape is interesting. The gently pleated top is soft and voluminous, while its body is smoother and decorated with an elegant geometric design. I appreciate the contrasting movements on an intellectual level, but I’m still not sure about the execution.

Inside the Granville is just as lovely as we’d expect it to be. Christian Dior never skimps, and it’s a pleasure to enjoy the leather lining and reinforced pockets. It’s mid-sized, which these days is beginning to feel small, but it should hold everything you need it to.

If the chef hat styling hasn’t turned you off the price might. At $2700 it feels like we’re paying for the name attached rather than the purse itself. Christian Dior has done better, and that’s what I’d be spending my money on.

More Features of This Christian Dior Leather Shoulder Bag

• Polished silver-toned hardware
• Inset magnetic snap tab closures
• Four metal feet at the base
• Dual sliding chain link handles with a 9 inch drop
• Measures 14 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches
• Made in Italy
• Also available in black

Get this Christian Dior Granville Handbag:

• Available to buy at Bluefly
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Christian Dior bags on BagBunch
• The Christian Dior Le Trente bag, a great alternative to this leather bag.
• Searching for more Christian Dior bags on eBay
• Other Christian Dior shoulder bags on eBay:

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A smattering of studs and gemstones brings a glamorous edge to Chocolate’s classic Danielle Hobo.

While it doesn’t have the crescent shape of the first hobos, its slouchy finish makes it look much closer to a hobo than many modern incarnations. The relaxed silhouette makes the Danielle perfect for everyday use. But everyday doesn’t mean boring, thanks to the details on the handle.

Here Chocolate’s gone all out, adding gemstones and studs for some serious glitz. It might still prove too much for conservative fashionistas, but by restricting the accents to the handle I think Chocolate gets away with its bold decorations. It’s just a shame they’re not applied better. Customers report that their gems have fallen off before too long, so it might be worth stashing some super glue inside!

The Danielle is enormous, but its cleverly designed interior ensures it never feels unmanageable. A large zippered envelope runs down the center of the main compartment, dividing it into three easy to use sections. Its wall pockets should last regular use as they’re bordered by thick synthetic.

It’s that synthetic that sees the Danielle priced at an affordable $105. Fashion snobs may feel the material’s a compromise they can’t bear making, but this hobo still represents great value.

More Features of This Chocolate Stud Handle Hobo

• Zip closure
• Logo print lining
• A single handle with an 8 inch drop
• Measures 12.75 x 17.5 x 7 inches
• Made in China

Get this Chocolate Danielle Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Check the Retired Jewels Faberge Franklin Mint eBay store to see if this Chocolate bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chocolate bags on BagBunch
• The Chocolate Ruth bag, a woven alternative to this hobo bag.
• Searching for more Chocolate bags on eBay
• Other red hobo bags on eBay:

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Phillip Lim will launch a new handbag range, dubbed 31 Hour, next year. The new diffusion line is a companion to Phillip Lim’s signature 3.1 Phillip Lim collection.

The latest label gets its quirky title as it’s targeted at girls who long for “more than 24 hours in a day.” Consequently the purses will be practical, although I don’t expect Lim will skimp on the fashion forward styling.

Lim is being smart about the new endeavor and starting small with just four handbag styles. With a tote, cosmetic clutch, weekender, and portfolio bag to choose from I think most modern women will be happy with the handful of varieties on offer. The colors also sound pleasing, with predictable black, white, navy, and red mixed in with unexpected hues like green, lemon yellow, and some glitzy metallics. Considering the small number of styles, I’m glad there are so many colors to ensure we don’t all end up carrying the same bags.

Girls are also likely to be happy with the prices. The 31 Hour accessories start at $295 and top $895. While those prices aren’t exactly small change, they’re quite reasonable in the world of designer fashion. Look out for the new 31 Hour bags at Phillip Lim boutiques, Lane Crawford, Barneys New York, and Net-A-Porter next year.

[Source: Belfast Telegraph]
[Image Source: Ed Kavishe/Wikipedia Commons]

Phillip Lim Bags on eBay

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If there’s one thing that bugs me, it’s false advertising. If you use an adjective to name your accessory, it’d better live up to the hype. Needless to say, I’m disappointed by Chloe’s High Tech Wristlet.

The thing is, there’s nothing high tech about this wristlet. Chloe claims it gets its name because it might be used as a cell phone or iPod pouch, but surely we could say that of most wristlets. Sorry Chloe, this is really just a bog standard wristlet.

That’s not to say that it’s not a very nice example of the style. The boxy shape is compact and classic, and its golden logo plate is a gorgeous way to brand the bag. Its leather is first rate, and while its caramel color won’t catch the eye it’ll easily work its way into any wardrobe.

There are also a few practical perks to enjoy. The interior is small but lined with hardy twill. The wrist loop is also detachable, so you can convert it to a clutch or coin purse if you prefer.

Just don’t be fooled into thinking you’re getting anything you’re not. The $495 price tag is far too high for that.

More Features of This Chloe Caramel Leather Wristlet

• Made of calf leather
• Zip fastening along front
• A detachable wrist loop with an 8 inch drop
• Measures 5 x 4 x 2 inches

Get this Chloe High Tech Handbag:

• Available to buy at Net-A-Porter
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chloe bags on BagBunch
• The Chloe Wristlet Leather Clutch bag, a great alternative to this wristlet bag.
• Searching for more Chloe on eBay
• Other leather wristlets on eBay:

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Australian television personality and sometimes singer Dannii Minogue is a hoarder, however her collection is one we’d all covet. Kylie’s little sister told British Glamour magazine that she refuses to part with her designer purses, as she’s sure she’ll always find a use for them.

Echoing the sentiments of thousands of Ordinary Janes across the planet, Minogue says that unless her handbags are damaged “it feels like sacrilege to chuck them.” She’s clearly not afraid of being spotted recycling her fashion, as she continues that “If you loved them once, you’ll surely have occasion to use them again.”

Minogue also admitted that she doesn’t mind splashing out, and that when she sees something she wants she doesn’t mind waiting for it.

“I was on a 10-week waiting list for my beaded bag years ago, and it cost a bomb. I still love it.“

Minogue also invests in good quality luggage for her travels between her native Australia and Great Britain, where she judges The X Factor. She believes that investing in the designer suitcases is great value, as the bags last for years.

“My Louis Vuitton roller bag was a 30th birthday gift, and it still looks brand new,” said the 40-year-old. “I use it on every single flight I take. I can pack so much stuff in it and it takes the weight off my shoulders.“

Her handbag collection might be a little flashier than our own, but this interview makes Ms Minogue seem not so different from the rest of us, don’t you think?

[Source: ContactMusic]
[Image Source: Acediscovery/Wikipedia Commons]

Louis Vuitton Travel Bags on eBay

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Chinese Laundry proves cheap and cheerful doesn’t have to come without charm with this Braid Clutch.

Admittedly this is one of those purses that looks just as cheap as its price tag. Its synthetic body is stiff, so its pleats fall awkwardly. It’s also got that tacky sheen we find in too many inferior man-made materials. But it does have some lovely elements.

The braiding which borders the curved flap really is beautiful. I also appreciate the overall design, which is simple enough to work during the day or on a casual evening out. The generous dimensions also assist us there. Most of us should be able to carry everything we need, and perhaps even a few items we don’t. I wouldn’t go nuts though as there’s no shoulder strap to help us out.

We do get a selection of interior pockets though, which is an unexpected blessing. The pair of slip pockets and zippered pouch is equal to most tote bags, so there’s no excuse for clutter.

And for a mere $17.99, I can hardly be too critical of the material. At least it’s easy to keep clean, which is a real plus for a white purse. I’d probably save my pennies for something that looks a bit more luxe, but if you’re on a tighter budget you’ll enjoy a bargain here.

More Features of This Chinese Laundry Synthetic Clutch

• Clasp top closure
• Pink fabric lining
• Measures 15 x 6 x 3 inches

Get this Chinese Laundry Braid Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Available to buy on eBay (see listings below):

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• Check the Buy Now or Never Bargain Resource eBay store to see if this Chinese Laundry bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chinese Laundry bags on BagBunch
• The Treesje Slate Plaited bag, a great alternative to this braided bag.
• Searching for more Chinese Laundry bags on eBay

Keep your balls and clown shoes away; this Deerskin Bowler Bag is far too sophisticated for carrying your bowling paraphernalia!

It might seem counterintuitive to create a bowler that isn’t made for sporting equipment, but Celine’s design shows the evolution of this domed style. These days a high quality bowler is more likely to be seen in the boardroom or a good restaurant than your local lanes. And this is a very high quality bowler.

Its body is made from soft pebbled deerskin, a leather that’s prized for its buttery finish and suppleness. The camel color is a little pedestrian, but it suits such a conservative design. The styling is very clean, with just a hint of golden hardware and darker brown accents.

This Celine bowler allows us to enjoy all those little extras that make us feel truly pampered. The main compartment is spacious, with a convenient array of leather trimmed pockets. Its zipper moves smoothly, and can be padlocked if security is a concern. Metal feet on the base ensure that lush deerskin doesn’t suffer scrapes or scratches.

We do pay a premium for this level of luxury though, in this case a hefty $2250. At least it won’t fall out of fashion any time soon!

More Features of This Celine Bowler Bag

• Gold-toned hardware
• Fabric lined interior
• Dual 18 inch handles with a 5 inch drop
• Measures 16.5 x 13.25 x 6.75 inches
• Made in Italy

Get this Coach Patchwork Handbag:

• Available to buy at Bluefly
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Celine bags on BagBunch
• The Celine Black Leather Inset Bowler bag, a great alternative to this bowler bag.
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Seven acclaimed photographers have come together to shoot a Coach purse to celebrate the American handbag label’s 70th birthday. Coach president Reed Krakoff, Chen Man, Philip-Kora Dicorcia, Steven Sebring, Wang Shya, Sheila Metzner, and Mika Ninagawa all photographed the same Coach purse in New York City.

It’s amazing to see the different qualities the photographers brought out of the accessory, just by changing the approach and backdrop. Ninagawa captured the purse in front of a colorful ferris wheel. Chen Man took a more surreal approach with his image which sees a Coach carrying girl embracing King Kong atop the Empire State Building. Krakoff was also inspired by the movies, although his approach is more indie and less big blockbuster. His photograph shows a bag hung on a balloon in Central Park, a scene which calls to mind the whimsical French film The Red Balloon.

The images were recently showcased at Beijing’s Iberia Contemporary Art Centre, an international scale event attended by Krakoff and Coach’s current muse Gwyneth Paltrow. It’s unclear where the photographs will turn up next, but hopefully an American exhibition is in the works. It’d be a shame for the label’s fans in its homeland to miss out on seeing this creative project.

[Source: The Star]

Coach Handbags on eBay

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Victoria’s Secret babe Alessandra Ambrosio has one. So does blue-eyed actress Megan Fox. And unlike so many other celebrity favorites, you could have one too. Meet the Leight Luxe Fringe Bag from CC Skye.

I’m not sure it’s quite as luxurious as its name suggests, but this shoulder bag is crafted from a good looking pebbled cowhide. The gently textured skin is complemented by western influenced braiding at its flap’s border. Its long leather fringing is punctuated by gleaming metal balls. Personally I think those beads really make this purse. They give this boho style accessory an extra layer of sophistication.

The interior is likely just what we expected it to be. CC Skye opts for the standard configuration of two patch pockets and a generous zippered one. It’s not revolutionary, but it gets the job done.

The bag is finished with a long cross-body strap. This carrying handle is perfect for the Leight Luxe’s boho style. It sees the bag sitting casually on our hip, leaving our hands free for more important things. No wonder Alessandra, a mommy to a busy tiny tot, loves hers!

At $670 you don’t need her bank balance to enjoy this bag. It’s one of those rare star favorites that combines style and substance, without thinking about status. Isn’t it refreshing?

More Features of This CC Skye Fringed Bag

• Magnetic closures underneath the flap
• Fully lined interior
• A single strap with an 18 inch drop
• Measures 10 x 12 x 4 inches

Get this CC Skye Leight Luxe Handbag:

• Available to buy at Shopbop
• Check the Design Appeal eBay store to see if this CC Skye bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More CC Skye bags on BagBunch
• The CC Skye Janey hobo bag, a great alternative to this fringed bag.
• Searching for more CC Skye bags on eBay
• Other fringed shoulder bags on eBay:

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