Stuart Weitzman Neutron Snake Regine Purse | Unusual Leather Cross-Body

Posted on: Apr 19

Stuart Weitzman Collection Evening Neutron Snake Regine Cross-BodyThe Neutron Snake Regine may be the catchiest name in the handbag world, and that over-statement is carried on in the design!

What do I mean by that? Well, firstly there is the snakeskin print leather, in a mottled range of gold and brown shades. Then on top of that is a huge gold decorative clasp, which resembles in many ways a door knocker, although I don’t know if that is what the designer intended! Finally, we have a very chunky gold chain strap, to really add some bling and jazz up the whole ensemble.

Whilst it sounds like all I am coming up with for this purse is criticism, I don’t really mind it. It is ostentatious and over-the-top enough to be kind of admirable, and the overall effect is one of a status symbol, one that is certainly distinctive. If you have the balls, it may well be just your thing!

More Features of this Snakeskin Stuart Weitzman Cross-Body:

  • Also available in a pewter color
  • Snakeskin print leather exterior
  • Gold metal hardware
  • Multiple interior compartments

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Lauren Merkin Hudson Clutch | Metallic Goatskin Fold-Over Purse

Posted on: Apr 19

Lauren Merkin Hudson Metallic Goatskin Fold-Over ClutchIf I said “dimpled metal bow,” you might be forgiven for thinking that the resulting creation would be terribly ugly. Instead, however, Lauren Merkin has shown that she really can make anything work!

The fold-over shape of this clutch is simple, which is perhaps why the bow works so well. It is bright and shiny enough to contrast with the leather, even in the metallic version pictured. As such, the effect is one of decadence and luxury, rather than the tackiness that a big metal bow could otherwise denote.

As for the rest of the design, well I quite like it. The central strip of leather gives it a cute shape, and the suede lining goes some of the way to justifying the $295 cost. All in all, I think it is pretty, and fun, yet also largely suitable for daytime wear. That’s not a likely characteristic for a metallic leather clutch, mainly because metallic is normally evening fodder.

In sleek goatskin, the Hudson is a sexy and stylish clutch.

More Features of this Lauren Merkin Metallic Clutch

  • Available in other colors
  • Metallic goatskin leather exterior
  • Suede lining

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Chocolate Carla Tote | Pewter Zipper Layered Synthetic Handbag

Posted on: Apr 19

Chocolate Carla ToteWith Easter just around the corner men are faced with two choices. They can give the traditional gift of calorie-laden chocolate to their lady love, or they can choose a more unusual Chocolate gift like this Carla tote. It’s unique, and completely guilt free!

From a distance I thought this tote was decorated with an unusual abstract design. But when you get up closer you realize the curved lines aren’t simply painted on, but created with zippers. These metal details make the Carla feel a bit edgier and add an exciting volume to the design.

The embellished pattern could have been too much, but the Carla’s classic bucket shape and conservative colors make the tote very versatile. This pewter shade is the most flamboyant of the lot, and no one could accuse it of being too brassy!

The use of synthetic rather than leather is the biggest letdown for me. It allows this tote to be affordably priced at $100, but it’s one of the cheapest looking manmade substances I’ve seen. That stiff finish and shiny surface are all trademarks of a poor quality synthetic, so expect to see some flaking around the handles before too long.

While it does last though I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. The Carla is enormous, but its plethora of pockets ensure it’s not unmanageably so. The handles are a bit shorter than I’d like, but there’s also a longer shoulder strap to help us out. It won’t last for a long time, but I’m sure you’ll get your $100 worth from this head-turning Chocolate tote.

More Features of This Chocolate Zipper Decorated Tote

  • Zip top closure
  • Satiny interior lining
  • Dual handles with a 5 inch drop
  • Measures 7 x 21 x 15 inches

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Will Leather Goods Designs Tribeca Film Festival Tote | Canvas Bags for Movie Event

Posted on: Apr 19

Will Leather Goods Tribeca Film Festival ToteWill Leather Goods has designed the official bag for this year’s Tribeca Film Festival.

It’s a fitting project for the fashion house which owes its origins to the film industry. The company’s CEO Bill Adler was formerly an actor, but needed to look at other job opportunities during the Screen Actors Guild strike of 1981. He started Billy’s Belts during that time, a business which later grew to become Will Leather Goods.

Each Will Leather Goods Tribeca Film Tote is branded with the Tribeca Film Festival and Will Leather Goods logos and assembled in the United States. Each one is made from natural cotton canvas, which is accented with a brown leather base and pair of handles.

The limited edition tote will hit the hands of prominent actors, filmmakers, and industry insiders when the festival hits New York between April 20 and May 1. However you don’t need to be a Hollywood A-lister to get your hands on one. The tote and a companion canvas carryall will be available through at Tribeca Film Festival merchandise stalls and the Tribeca Film website during the festival period. You can expect to pay $195 for the tote and a mere $46 for the carryall.

[Source: Accessories Magazine]

Tribeca Film Festival Totes on eBay

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Chloe Kerala Tote | Yellow Perforated Leather Horse Bag

Posted on: Apr 19

Chloe Kerala ToteChloe celebrates spring racing season with this equestrian themed Kerala tote.

The cheery yellow color is perfect for the warmer weather ahead, and the leather’s perforated treatment is right on trend. But unfortunately all the embellishments muddy what was a rather appealing base.

I think Chloe has taken the equestrian theme too far. The horse and horseshoe are very kitschy, and even the lobster claw pocket clasp resembles a stirrup. It all looks a bit messy for me, and a bit too obvious. All those pockets might be practical, but they too clutter up this purse. Ordinarily I’m disappointed when a designer doesn’t continue the accents on the back of its bag, but this tote’s perfectly plain perforated rear is like a breath of fresh air!

Considering the rather substantial $1595 price tag, I was surprised to see this tote isn’t lined. I suppose Chloe thought that would make the perforations stand out more, but it also makes this tote feel a bit cheap. There are also aren’t any pockets inside either, so you’ll need to make use of those out on the outside to stay organized.

All in all this Kerala tote is a bit obvious for my tastes, but I’m sure horse enthusiasts and Chloe devotees may feel differently.

More Features of This Chloe Perforated Leather Tote

  • Silver-toned hardware
  • Inset top zip closure
  • Dual 22 inch handles with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 13 x 14 x 4.5 inches

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Quirky Recycled Harry Potter Books & Board Game Purses | Bagitude! Handbags with Attitude

Posted on: Apr 18

Harry Potter Book BagMost handbag designers create their accessories from traditional materials like leather, exotic skins, canvas, and polyester. But not Karla Staley. With her quirky fashion line Bagitude! Handbags with Attitude she’s turning everyday items into wearable pieces of arm candy.

Staley began turning cigar boxes into purses in her living room some 11 years ago. Since that time the business has grown to recycle all kinds of items, including magazines, VHS cases, board games, crossword puzzles, and most famously, Harry Potter books.

Staley uses a heat gun to remove each book’s pages to ensure they stay intact. That allows her to donate the uncovered book to a needy school or shelter. She laminates the cover and assembles the purse, adding a twist lock or magnetic catch for security and a bead or seatbelt carry strap. Each book bag takes around two hours to assemble.

With the boy wizard wrapping up his adventures Staley must look to new items for inspiration. She’s just started to make purses out of old wedding invitations, the ideal keepsake for your special day. She’s also planning to create man bags, file folders, and jewelry boxes.

If you want to own one of Staley’s unique creations it couldn’t be easier. The Bagitude! Handbags with Attitude website has images of bags currently available, and a simple order form. Each is affordably priced at less than $75, a bargain considering the hours of work in each one.

[Source: Tinley Park Patch]
[Image Source: Bagitude! Handbags with Attitude website]

Coach Rereleases 70s Retro Handbags | Classic Bags Exclusive to Net-A-Porter

Posted on: Apr 18

Coach Classics Handbags

If you’ve ever longed for the Coach designs of old, make sure you hit up Net-A-Porter this summer. The American heritage label will rerelease several of its iconic 70s handbags exclusively through the high-end online store.

The Coach Classics range will revive Bonnie Cashin’s famous designs, which include a bucket bag, a hobo, a small shoulder purse, a duffel, and a briefcase for the lads. Each bag will feature the thick, unfinished cowhide Coach was famous for, and vintage turn-lock hardware.

Holli Rogers, the buying director of Net-A-Porter, explained that the Coach bags complement the current retro fashion trends, including wide-leg denim jeans and stacked-heeled sandals. However they’re also so versatile that they’ll continue to look good well after our ardor for 70s fashion fades.

Sadly these Coach Classics handbags don’t come at 1970s prices. You can expect to pay between $300 and $500 when the bags hit Net-A-Porter on June 15. You’ll probably find them for less than that at a flea market or thrift store, but who wants to go rummaging through all the kitsch rejects in hopes of snaring that elusive accessory? To ensure you don’t miss out you can preregister for the sale through the Net-A-Porter website now.

[Source: StyleList]

Vintage Coach Handbags on eBay

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Foley + Corinna Woven Mid City Tote | Dramatic High Contrast Leather Purse

Posted on: Apr 18

Foley + Corinna Woven Mid City ToteIs it just me, or does this Foley + Corinna tote look a whole lot like a Transformer, or maybe something from the film Predator? There is definitely a sci-fi interpretation or two in that contrasting patterned leather exterior!

OK, so my inability to see past the decorative shapes means that I can’t really fall in love with this … retro … handbag. However, I can understand how other people would. The leather is soft, the colors are unusual, and it certainly has an eye-catching look . If this particular khaki-black combo isn’t quite what you are after, then there is always the black and silver option. Even simpler, the solid black gives you a break from the eye catching contrast.

The Mid City tote is spacious and luxurious, but do you think the woven body is worth the $391 price tag?

More Features of this Foley + Corinna Contrast Leather Tote:

  • Available in two other colors
  • Large interior zip pocket
  • Woven leather exterior

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Kate Spade Eastward Avenue Kayla Mini Bag | Woven Basket & Stud Clutch

Posted on: Apr 18

Kate Spade Eastward Avenue Kayla Mini BagKate Spade is starting to make a move away from her retro inspired bags. The newer creations still use retro materials, but with a bit of a modern “twist”.

What we have before us today is a purse that is constructed from wicker, but rather than taking on any sort of traditional shape it forms a cute and intricate clutch. Even more remarkable than the unusual pattern of weave and mini bag construction, however, is the fact that Kate Spade has added in silver studs. It is a combination I have never seen before, and it works surprisingly well.

Once you stop staring the the summery exterior, the interior has some worthy discussion points all of its own. The lining is bright and colorful, and it surrounds a center zippered compartment that makes this purse far more useful than many other wicker bags on the market.

The only problem with this Eastward Avenue Kayla clutch, as far as I can see, is that there are far cheaper wicker alternatives if you look in the right places. But the unique qualities of this particular example may still make it a good investment!

More Features of this Kate Spade Wicker Clutch

  • Woven wicker exterior
  • Zipped central pocket
  • Optional drop in chain strap
  • 60s print fabric lining

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Chinese Laundry Le Opera Large Python Hobo | Printed PVC Fabric Handbag

Posted on: Apr 18

Chinese Laundry Le Opera HoboChinese Laundry calls this hobo Le Opera, but there’s nothing high class about this python printed purse.

The smoky gray snake print doesn’t do a bad impersonation of the genuine article, but it gets obscured by all those pockets. They serve a practical purpose of course, but at the expense of the exotic veneer.

The use of PVC is another thing that lets the bag down. It looks and feels cheap, and while the $95 price tag isn’t exactly high end it’s also not really what I consider cheap and cheerful. The shoulder strap also isn’t my favorite. I suppose the braiding was meant to add interest, but when the leather is already patterned with snake scales it seems excessive. I’m also pretty sure the braided surface won’t be kind to shoulders.

At least the Le Opera is well designed though. We’re not left wanting for anything really. The interior has plenty of space, and a large zippered pocket to divide the interior into three. A pair of gadget pockets and a zippered pouch offer space for storing small items, and don’t forget those extra pockets on the outside.

I wouldn’t carry it to the opera, but on busy days all the features of Le Opera would prove invaluable.

More Features of This Chinese Laundry Python Print Hobo

  • Zip top closure
  • Golden hardware
  • Nylon lining
  • Measures 15 x 13 x 5 inches

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