You can say what you want about Alexander McQueen’s purses, but one adjective you’ll probably never use is boring. While I’m not the greatest fan of this Mink & Ostrich Box Clutch, I can appreciate its design risks.

I’m so taken by its body. The deep eggplant colored ostrich skin is gorgeous, and the polished silver trim is such a perfect complement. But somewhere around the top it all goes awry.

We’ve seen intricate knuckle duster style grips before from McQueen, and they’re always a bit hit and miss. The skull and heraldic imagery might be familiar McQueen motifs, but they just seem overdone. I could overlook them if it wasn’t for that mink pompom though. It seems so silly sitting on top of the bag there like a fuzzy snowball. It doesn’t integrate with the rest of the design, and frankly seems like a waste of the prized fur.

A purse like this really needs to win you over before you open it up, because its interior will rarely change your mind. That certainly holds true here. The main compartment is small and simple, made for the barest of evening essentials. It doesn’t even have a chain, so we’re left holding it by hand. That wouldn’t ordinarily be a deal breaker, but on a purse so pricy I think we deserve perfection.

At $2295 this Alexander McQueen clutch is far too rich for my blood. That’s a lot of money to spend on any purse, but especially one so impractical.

More Features of This Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster Clutch

• Measures 3.5 x 6 x 2 inches
• Handcrafted in Italy

Get this Alexander McQueen Mink & Ostrich Handbag:

• Available to buy at Neiman Marcus
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Alexander McQueen bags on BagBunch
• The Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster bag, a great alternative to this knuckle duster bag.
• Searching for more Alexander McQueen bags on eBay
• Other Alexander McQueen clutch bags on eBay:

[phpbay]Alexander McQueen clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Coach might be eyeing expansion in China, but that doesn’t mean it’s forgotten about its other key markets. The American label has recruited London-based fashion blogger Emily Johnston of Fashion Foie Gras to help them create a bag for fellow online writers.

This is one of Coach’s most stylish handbags with its elegantly stitched corners, textured handles, and pretty racing stripe. The blue and white colors pay homage to America and Britain, and by extension the coming together of these international design talents.

This Coach handbag has good looks on its side, but there are a few functional features designed to make bloggers giddy. The padded camera pocket ensures writers always have their faithful digital SLR handy. I also love the separate ballet flats compartment, perfect for those big nights spent covering a nightclub opening or fashion event. The top handles and longer shoulder strap give us a few carrying choices.

Johnston said her “feet haven’t touched the ground” since she was presented with the collaborative opportunity. She added that she has always held Coach “in such high regard,” and so found the design process both terrifying and exhilarating.

“I couldn’t be prouder or more pleased with what we have produced,” she added.

The Fashion Foie Gras blogger bag is available exclusively from Coac’’s London flagship store on New Bond Street for £495.

[Source: FashionEtc]

Coach Totes on eBay

[phpbay]Coach tote, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

With the silly season upon us, my taste in handbags is tending towards the whimsical. I’m not looking for a clutch to see me through the year; I just want something fun and frivolous to take to a few holiday parties. And I’ve found just that in Aldo’s Selfridge Clutch.

Aldo has jazzed up this clutch’s traditional baguette purse with adorable sequin covered stars. I love the way the silvery accents pop against the bag’s black body, almost like real stars twinkling in the night sky.

Far too often affordable labels cut corners, but I don’t see a lot of evidence of that here. The stars cover the purse, front and back, so we don’t need to be conscious of what way we’re carrying it. The interior is also fully lined with fabric to help it last longer.

It is quite simple though, without a shoulder strap or any interior pockets. It’s also made of polyurethane, which is nowhere near as luxurious as leather. It feels cheap but it looks the part from a distance, which is perhaps the best we can hope for at this price point. At $62.90 it’ll leave plenty of cash for a few cheeky Christmas cocktails!

More Features of This Aldo Star Clutch

• Flap closure
• Wipe clean with a soft cloth

Get this Aldo Selfridge Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Aldo bags on BagBunch
• The Miu Miu Leather Mini Flap bag, a great alternative to this star decorated bag.
• Searching for more Aldo bags on eBay
• Other star clutch bags on eBay:

[phpbay]star clutch, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Alaia proves that studs don’t have to mean rock and roll with this chic Arabesque leather tote.

Tiny pinhead studs are delicately applied to the tote’s calf leather body to create a stunning arabesque pattern. The Middle Eastern inspired design is broken up by the extended ridged handles. The different textures give this tote the sort of drama and depth we don’t often find in a black tote. Who said any bag of this color is basic and boring?

There’s some intricate work to the exterior, but thankfully Alaia hasn’t focused all its attention on it. The main compartment is just as impressive, with its rosy leather lining and host of functional features. We get the pockets we’ve come to expect, but Alaia doesn’t stop there. I’m particularly impressed by the small vanity mirror and the detachable zippered pouch, which could easily double as a basic clutch.

Alaia has excelled here, to the point where I almost feel this tote is worth the $3395 the label’s asking. That’s an awful lot of money, but I could think of many worse ways to spend it!

More Features of This Alaia Studded Tote Bag

• Snap fastenings at extendable sides
• Dual handles with a 6 inch drop
• Measures 14 x 12 x 7 inches

Get this Alaia Arabesque Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Alaia bags on BagBunch
• The Judith Leiber Cut Corner bag, a great alternative to this arabesque bag.
• Searching for more Alaia bags on eBay
• Other studded tote bags on eBay:

[phpbay]studded tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Beauty.com’s exclusive free gift releases are coming thick and fast. Not even a month after introducing its free Issa London Safari beauty bag, the online beauty e-tailer is serving up a new China Club bag. This silky clutch purse is the handiwork of the designers behind the esteemed Erickson Beamon jewelry line.

Karen and Vicki Beamon are jewelry royalty who’ve put the finishing touches on the outfits of Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama, Rihanna, and Madonna. We know they know their way around precious metals and gemstones, so it’s exciting to see them taking on a new creative challenge.

The designers haven’t left their signature range too far behind though. The envelope-style wristlet features a distinctive jewelry pattern and two rhinestone encrusted zipper pulls. How very chic! While it’s currently serving as a cosmetics case, I imagine it’d make a great evening purse.

The China Club bag comes complete with 14 full-size beauty samples, a $5 voucher for future Beauty.com purchases, and a $20 discount card for Sunglass Hut’s Beauty.com e-store. With skin and hair care products and cosmetics all tucked away inside the bag, it might just take care of all your beauty needs!

Beauty.com shoppers who spend more than $100 will receive the China Club bag filled with beauty samples as a special holiday gift while stocks last.

[Source: Marketwatch]

Adidas takes the path well traveled with this Moseley Backpack.

This isn’t a knapsack that breaks rules. We’ve seen it all before, from its domed top to its dual padded straps. Even the blue plaid print has been done to death. But just because something’s classic doesn’t mean it should be dismissed. Styles and patterns earn that status because they work, after all.

For me the devil’s in the details, which go beyond your average school backpack. The Moseley’s made from rip-stop polyester, so it’ll stack up some serious punishment. It has not one but two main compartments, so staying organized is made that much easier. We’re also treated to a plastic sleeve, which can hold a laptop as large as 15.4 inches, and two tricot lined media safe pockets. And if you’re still looking for storage space there’s the generously sized zip pocket on the front.

The Moseley is also very cheap at $45. That low price still won’t be enough to convince fashion snobs, but considering all those features I think we’re getting a bargain.

More Features of This Adidas Check Backpack

• Dual air-mesh straps
• Padded air-mesh back panel
• Measures 6.2 x 19 x 13 inches

Get this Adidas Moseley Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Adidas Moseley, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the HannibalMed eBay store to see if this Adidas bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Adidas bags on BagBunch
• The matte Adidas Moseley bag, a great alternative to this patterned bag.
• Searching for more Adidas bags on eBay

Payless‘ favorite designers, Christian Siriano and Lela Rose, have released Holiday Designer Collections, just in time for Christmas.

Christian Siriano’s line features three classic shoes with matching handbags. Fashionistas can choose from the Kiara wedge in classic black or more glamorous pewter, the fabric knot decorated Katia pump, and the comfortable black suede or leopard print satin flat called the Chrissy. The Kiara works well with the pewter mesh cross-body bag, while the leopard print and faux-fur accented totes would look great with the leopard print or black shoes.

Lela Rose plays with fabrics and textures for her seasonal offering. The footwear and handbags are made to suit our glamorous Christmas parties and more casual winter weekends. The evening range features a Mary Jane style pump, wedges, and ballet flats for aching feet. These styles are all available in a striking black and white zigzag material decorated with seasonal red accents and tiny bows. If you prefer something more neutral look to Lela Rose’s black satin peep-toe pump. These shoes are complemented by a zigzag printed tote bag and pretty bow decorated ruched clutch. Sadly the casual collection doesn’t have matching bags, but their muted tan, grey, and green tones should be easy enough to incorporate into your wardrobe. This line features an ankle bootie, mid-heel pump, and ballet flat.

Budgets are always tight around Christmas time, so it’s excited to see the items in the Payless Holiday Designer Collections start from less than $30. Selected styles are available at Payless.com ahead of their official release.

[Source: PR Newswire]
[Image Source: Payless]

Payless Bags on eBay

[phpbay]Payless, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Abas helps us carry the essentials in style with this Terry mini cross-body bag.

Exotic embossing is so hard to get right but Abas nails it every time. The glossy python finish on the Terry is no exception. I’m particularly fond of the subtle mottling of this Grecian white hue, but it’s also available in black, brown, and purple if you prefer something darker and more dramatic.

The styling leaves a little bit to be desired though. The Terry reminds me of an old school cell phone case. It can hold a little more than that now that our cells are slimmer, but the aesthetics still seem rooted in the past. If it weren’t for the scaly surface and tassels I could imagine this very purse sitting on my father’s belt loop.

It is affordable though at $98, and quite smart thanks to its cross-body strap. That strap is a little skinnier than I’d like, but for the price I’ll try not to quibble. It always seems mean to pick fault when we get change from a Ben Franklin. The Terry’s not Abas’ best accessories offering, but on the whole it’s not its worst either.

More Features of This Abas Snake Print Mini Cross-Body Bag

• Made of Italian leather
• Snap closure
• Lined with polyester
• A leather strap with a 20 inch drop
• Measures 5.5 x 4 x 1 inches
• Made in China

Get this Abas Terry Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Abas bags on BagBunch
• The Abas Terry bag, a large alternative to this cross-body bag.
• Searching for more Abas bags on eBay
• Other Abas cross-body bags on eBay:

[phpbay]Abas cross*, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Ever on trend 7 Chi serves up its take on vintage fashion with this Donna Mini Bag.

I’m surprised to see 7 Chi creating a bag so conservative, but with retro styling continuing to dominate the catwalks perhaps it’s not so much of a stretch. 7 Chi wears this new sedate image well. I love the way the chevron style stitching helps to make the chocolate brown leather more interesting, and the pop of the polished gold hardware.

I never expect much from a mini bag, but the Donna certainly exceeded my expectations. The turn-lock closure on the front opens to reveal a convenient external pocket. Inside we find a zippered pocket and three slip pouches, which is more than we get in most large totes! There are also six credit card slots so our wallets need not clutter the already small main compartment.

The choice of carrying straps is also impressive. The short one turns the Donna into a shoulder bag, while the long strap makes it a cross-body. Alternatively we can leave them both behind and use the Donna as a classic clutch.

It might be small, but the Donna’s versatility ensures we see value for our $108.

More Features of This 7 Chi Vintage Mini Bag

• A short strap with a 9 inch drop
• A long adjustable strap with an 11.5 to 23 inch drop
• Made in China

Get this 7 Chi Donna Handbag:

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

[phpbay]7 Chi Donna, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check Themarketexchange eBay store to see if this 7 Chi bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More 7 Chi bags on BagBunch
• The 7 Chi Mally bag, a modern alternative to this mini bag.
• Searching for more 7 Chi bags on eBay

More details have come to light about Versace’s forthcoming spring 2012 collection for H&M, and American fashion fans aren’t going to like them one bit.

Apparently the new collection will be released exclusively online on January 19. However H&M isn’t launching an American e-store until the fall, some nine months after the debut of this new collection. Considering the hysteria that surrounded the first Versace for H&M line, you can bet the spring fashions will be well and truly sold out by then.

Of course there’s always eBay for fans in America and other countries not currently served by H&M’s online store. But really that defeats the purpose of the whole exercise. We all saw the mark-ups sellers on the auction site put on the first batch of Versace for H&M items. Considering the markets for the next crop are so limited, I’m predicting the items that end up on eBay will be even more expensive and more in demand.

I guess that’s all that’s left is to cross fingers that we may be treated to a third Versace for H&M, or start saving your pennies for the items that inevitably end up on eBay.

Are you excited at the prospect of a new Versace for H&M line, or does its exclusivity dampen your enthusiasm?

[Source: Fashionista]
[Image Source: Fashionista]

Versace for H&M Bags on eBay

[phpbay]Versace HM, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]