I was bemused as a read a post on another handbag blog today. The writer admitted that she hadn’t bought a new handbag for three months with the sort of reluctance reserved for those who commit cardinal sins. I thought about my own wardrobe and realized that if not for my wonderful husband, who occasionally puts a purse with my birthday and Christmas gifts, years would go by before I’d receive a new accessory. While I’d love to have the budget to indulge in a new bag each season, I need to look for more evergreen indulgences. That’s why an affordable and timeless purse like this Twist Lock Handbag from Armani is right up my alley.

The golden turn-lock clasp gives this Armani purse a bit of vintage flair, but there’s nothing to really date this purse. Its lines are clean, and its black color a classic. I can’t imagine it turning a lot of heads, but it’ll serve you well in any situation or season.

It seems simple, but the design is actually really unique. Twist the clasp and you’ll open up a small front pocket. Lift the larger flap surrounding it up and then you’ve got the main interior compartment. The accordion style makes this mid-sized space even more user-friendly. I’d appreciate more than the single zip pocket we have here, but the segmented design means organization isn’t really a problem.

The $180 is very affordable for a soft leather bag, especially one as timeless as this.

More Features of This Armani Black Leather Bag

• Fully lined interior
• An adjustable skinny strap

Get this Armani Twist Lock Handbag:

• Available to buy at Armani Exchange
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Giorgio Armani bags on BagBunch
• The Mulberry Cory bag, a great alternative to this turn-lock bag.
• Searching for more Giorgio Armani bags on eBay
• Other turn-lock black leather bags on eBay:

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Hermes has posted a sales increase of close to 22% for the first half of the year, but it’s not confident it can replicate the results in the coming months due to low handbag stocks.

Revenue was up 21.5% thanks to strong sales of jewelry, silk scarves, and watches. However limited handbag stocks should see it only growing by around 12 to 14% by year’s end.

Demand is so high for Birkin and Kelly bags that Hermes has hired almost 400 new employees. It also plans to open around 10 new stores by year’s end. However Hermes chief executive Patrick Thomas admits that it “can only make so many bags,” despite plans to increase handbag production by up to 9% in coming years.

It must be tempting for Hermes to pump out as many handbags as possible, but let’s remember that exclusivity has always been the name of the game. By keeping production numbers low and ensuring long waiting lists, we want those Hermes bags just a little bit more.

And let’s remember that the most recent sales increase saw Hermes raking in €1.31 billion, which is equivalent to around $1.89 billionUS. With figures like that, something tells me the company doesn’t need to change a thing!

[Source: The Wall Street Journal]
[Image Source: Liu Wen Cheng/Flickr]

Hermes Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]Hermes, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Giani Bernini dresses up the traditional woven straw purse with this sophisticated Dreamstraw.

The name seems to suggest that this handbag is all our woven straw dreams come true. That could be overstating the point, but I do appreciate what Giani Bernini’s done with this accessory staple here. The blue colored straw appears a bit more refined than a natural toned fiber would, and the brown leatherette trim and handles add serious style. Fashion snobs might crave real leather, but used so sparingly I don’t think we notice a difference. Except in the hip pocket, of course. If this purse did employ real leather, we’d never score it for $75!

Giani Bernini might have skimped a little on the materials, but it doesn’t cut any practical corners. I was impressed to see a central pocket dividing the mid-sized interior into three user-friendly sections. Several more organizational pouches line the inner walls, and there’s another zippered pocket on the shopper’s rear. This one will sit snugly against your body for a little extra security.

Who says you can’t wear straw after summer? This shopper’s style makes it perfect for carrying into fall and beyond.

More Features of This Giani Bernini Straw Shopper

• Top zip closure
• Dual shoulder straps with a 10 inch drop
• Measures 12 x 9 x 4.5 inches

Get this Giani Bernini Dreamstraw Handbag:

• Available to buy at Macy’s
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Giani Bernini bags on BagBunch
• The Magid Herringbone tote bag, a great alternative to this straw bag.
• Searching for more Giani Bernini bags on eBay
• Other straw shopper bags on eBay:

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Ghibli delivers a healthy dose of luxury with this Jeweled Reptile Clutch purse.

With embossed leathers coming a long way in recent years, bags made from authentic python skin are becoming a bit of a rarity. PETA might not approve, but this blue snakeskin is really beautiful. Purists may prefer a more natural shade, but the hand-dying has been so well done I don’t mind this surreal hue.

I also really like the teal polished stone, although I’m not sure it’s the best match for the midnight blue snake. The small crystals surrounding this accent also seem a bit like overkill. The gems do make this clutch seem a bit more posh, but without them I think it’d be a more versatile accessory. Personally for the money I’d rather something I could dress up or down.

This clutch isn’t large but it’s a good size for evening use. You’ll find the space you need for the essentials and won’t struggle to carry it by hand. However there is a pretty removable chain strap, with a cute blue bow, for the times you want to go hands-free.

At $690 this purse is expensive for a clutch, but it’s certainly not exorbitant for one made of real python. Are you prepared to pay a premium for this level of luxury?

More Features of This Ghibli Python Clutch

• Signature fabric lining
• An interior zip pocket
• A removable chain strap with a 15.75 inch drop
• Measures 10.63 x 7.87 x 3.15 inches
• Comes with a signature dust bag
• Made in Italy

Get this Ghibli Jeweled Reptile Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Ghibli bags on BagBunch
• The Ghibli Fuchsia Baguette bag, a great alternative to this python bag.
• Searching for more Ghibli bags on eBay
• Other python clutch bags on eBay:

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Kim Kardashian’s big day had a bit of extra sparkle thanks to Judith Leiber. The iconic accessories creator made purses for the bridal party and Kim K herself.

The bridesmaids all received custom made minaudieres bearing their initials. Leiber also made mother of the bride Kris Jenner and mother in law Debra Humphries glittering purses to match their outfits. And for the woman of the moment, Leiber created a purse replica of the wedding cake. What a wonderful way to remember the tasty wedding centerpiece once it’s only crumbs! Of course every purse is a one-of-a-kind, just like the Kardashian family members!

Kim Kardashian, or Kim Humphries as she insists we call her now, expressed her thanks in a blog entry, where she called Leiber an “icon.” She also reminisced about her childhood, when she would sneak into her mother’s closet and try on her clothes.

“My favorite thing to do was touch her Judith Leiber crystal bag!” she remembered. “She said I was never allowed to pick it up!!“

How far she’s come since those early days when she couldn’t even touch a Judith Leiber purse.  And now she’s had one created exclusively for her. Needles to say, I’m a bit jealous.

Only time will tell whether Kim will be as strict with her own children as her mother was. She admits that she “can’t wait for the day” when her daughter looks at her Judith Leiber bags and she can share memories with her. She doesn’t say anything about touching those precious purses though!

[Source: Kim Kardashian Celebuzz]

Judith Leiber Minaudieres on eBay

[phpbay]Judith Leiber minaudiere, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

I don’t know about you, but I’m not looking forward to the conservative neutrals of fall and winter. I’d much rather indulge in something brighter, and this Candy Jelly bag from Furla fits the bill.

It’s not as luxurious as the leathers that Furla typically works with, but there’s a real charm about this molded rubber gel. Its shamrock green luster is stunning, so I’m thrilled Furla allows it to dominate. A splash of silver in the handle rings and zippered top is the only respite from this hue. Kermit told us that it’s not easy being green, but this Candy Jelly bag makes it seem effortless!

Such a shock of color really calls for moderation, so I’m thrilled that this satchel is midsized. Any larger and it might have seemed overwhelming. We’ll still be able to fit everything we really need inside it, although it’s worth noting that the translucent rubber doesn’t give us a lot of privacy. It’s not as revealing as a clear bag, but you’ll also see the outline of what you’re carrying inside.

Considering its rubber material, I think the Candy Jelly bag is overpriced at $295. However, it wasn’t that long ago that Tod’s was charging twice the price for its similar Gummy G-Bag tote. Affordable is certainly relative in the fashion world!

More Features of This Furla Rubber Gel Satchel

• Dual rolled straps with a 4 inch drop
• Measures 12 x 8 x 7 inches
• Comes with a sleeper bag

Get this Furla Candy Jelly Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Furla Candy Jelly, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check The Treat Boutique eBay store to see if this Furla bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Furla bags on BagBunch
• The Furla Candy Jelly bag in passionfruit, an orange alternative to this green bag.
• Searching for more Furla bags on eBay

Project Runway alum Christian Siriano is expanding his accessories line for Payless ShoeSource to offer more affordable handbags and shoes this fall.

The new accessories are much cheaper than we’ve seen in the past, with purses starting from just $23. However that doesn’t mean that we’ll lose out on style. Siriano assures us that his expanded range reflects his own “high fashion look.”

The new collection has three bags and six different pairs of shoes. We can choose from a studded cross-body, a hobo, or an on-trend satchel, and with the cash we’re saving we can even afford matching shoes! These include strappy sandals, casual ballet flats, and pumps for once the sun sets. Siriano has use synthetic alternatives to real suede, leather, and patent in a range of colors, from classic browns, blacks, and grays to vibrant violets and fuchsias.

Siriano will also introduce a few designs from his runway collection to Payless stores, including a clutch purse and tote. While these are a bit more expensive than the other pieces, they’re still not exorbitant with prices starting from $40.

Look for all the new Christian Siriano goodies in Payless stores, including the retailer’s website, from September 7. Will you be buying?

[Source: Examiner]
[Image Source: Joella Marano/Wikipedia Commons]

Christian Siriano for Payless Bags on eBay

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With its lack of frills and bows this Frye cross-body has a masculine appeal. But while it may look a little tough, Frye assures us it’s a big softie!

OK, perhaps Frye christened this bag for its buttery weathered leather rather than its demeanor. But either way, it’s working for me. Its slouchy profile is perfect for showing off the leather’s quality, and the lace threaded flap has real character. It looks like it’s just stepped out of the 70s, which actually makes it surprisingly on trend.

Staying organized should be a breeze with two large interior pockets complementing the generous one on the back. I always love a back pocket as it gets a bit of security nestled up against your body. I appreciate the strap’s length, but I think it’s far too narrow. The Softie isn’t very big so it shouldn’t pull at our shoulder too much, but something more substantial will always be more comfortable to carry. Pairing a magnetic snap and a drawstring seems like overkill, but at least security isn’t a concern.

I haven’t always been taupe’s biggest fan but I love the way the shade allows the Softie’s features to shine. They get a bit lost in the black bag, although this neutral is always a classic choice. And if that doesn’t float your boat, Frye also offers this cross-body in cognac brown.

More Features of This Frye Leather Cross-Body

• Striped fabric lining
• An adjustable strap with a 22 to 25 inch drop
• Measures 10 x 7 x 2 inches
• Made in China

Get this Frye Softie Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Check the Bluefly eBay store to see if this Frye bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Frye bags on BagBunch
• The Frye Cindy cross-body bag, a great alternative to this cross-body bag.
• Searching for more Frye bags on eBay
• Other Frye cross-body bags on eBay:

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Summer might be slipping away, but Franchi lets us hang onto the season just a little longer with this Camille clutch.

Ordinarily straw is reserved for casual day bags, but the natural fiber is given an up-market makeover here. Woven straw panels add texture to the sides of this structured box purse. On its own the material would seem a bit rustic, but the polished frame and modern pyramid clasp make it feel very now. I’m not completely sold on the combination of golden straw and silver metal, but it does have an unexpected pop.

You’ll need to pare down your party swag if you hope to carry the Camille though. It’s really small, and its structured shape means overstuffing isn’t an option. Its clasp will pop open under pressure, which is never a good look. Its serpentine chain is lovely but it’s also not detachable which of course means more interior clutter when it’s not in use.

But few of us buy a clutch for practicality, do we? It’s all about the look, and this one is very summer chic. And it’s a relative bargain too at $118.

More Features of This Franchi Straw Box Clutch

• One interior pocket
• A serpentine chain with a 22 inch drop
• Measures 6 x 4 x 1.5 inches

Get this Franchi Camille Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Franchi bags on BagBunch
• The Kotur Barnett Cicada bag, a great alternative to this straw bag.
• Searching for more Franchi bags on eBay
• Other straw clutch bags on eBay:

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There’s something really cool and modern about a lot of Stella McCartney’s designs lately. Unfortunately, this quilted bowling bag just isn’t the best example of her increasingly interesting aesthetic.

I always seem to have a bone to pick with McCartney’s materials. It’s definitely not because they’re animal-friendly. I’m actually a big fan of animals. But McCartney seems to sacrifice a lot of style when she chooses her faux leathers. This quilted bag is a good example. It would have looked great in a simple woven fabric, but this faux leather look just looks fake and cheap.

Luckily the design isn’t distracting enough to complicate matters. Unluckily, it’s just a bowling bag, and not a particularly interesting one at that. The shape is fine, but it’s only just fine, and the material is so obviously unimpressive that the whole look falls together in a pretty bland way.

$645 is a bit much to pay for this lackluster design. Even if it is made of Ecotex fabric. Whatever that is.

More Features Of The Stella McCartney Quilted Bowling Bag

• 22″ x 11″ x 8″ size
• 9″ strap drop
• Fully lined

Get this Stella McCartney Bowling Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Stella McCartney bags on BagBunch
• The Alexander Wang Bianca Vest Bag, a hip alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Stella McCartney items on eBay
• Other green bowling bags on eBay:[phpbay]green bowling handbag, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]