Chinese Laundry shows us that woven handbags can be edgy and a bit dangerous with its Sydney Shoulder Bag.

The label gives its heavy lattice weave that devil may care attitude with zipper trim. We’ve seen zippers doing the same thing for floral rosettes and ruffles in recent seasons, but this treatment does wonders for the weave. I only wish Chinese Laundry had kept it up on the back of the bag. The front is so impressive, but it makes the plain rear seem really boring.

It’s also worth noting that this shoulder bag is made from synthetic, rather than real leather. It’s a high-quality manmade material, soft and supple, but it still struggles to match the allure of genuine leather. It is animal-friendly though, and affordable, which might be enough to sway some shoppers.

Thankfully Chinese Laundry doesn’t cut corners on the practical front. The Sydney is amply sized, with a large main compartment, secure zip pocket, and pair of gadget pouches. I wish Chinese Laundry had continued the zippered theme by offering one to close the bag, but the magnetic snap will do the job.

At $129, this shoulder bag is well priced for a bag with style and substance.

More Features of This Chinese Laundry Woven Shoulder Bag

• Fully lined interior
• A single shoulder strap with a 7 inch drop
• Measures 14 x 17.5 x 5.5 inches

Get this Chinese Laundry Sydney Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Chinese Laundry Sydney, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the ECWorld Imports 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 Harveys Madison carryall bag, a great alternative to this black woven bag.
• Searching for more Chinese Laundry bags on eBay

Chloe’s Paddington satchel has been a major hit since its release, but frankly, I think this new take is far more interesting. The Pure Paddington duffle is a sleek, but feminine, bag that will quickly spawn a plethora of imitations.

The ultra-smooth matte black leather on the Paddington is practically seamless. Well, actually, besides the obviously well thought out decorative seaming, it is seamless. The only ornamentation on this minimal bag is a few very well-placed gold studs.

The shape is that of a traditional duffle, but the stiff smooth leather makes it look extra structured and sleek. The circular seaming around the handle fastenings reinforces the curvy design, and the gold padlock centers your interest. I have very little to say about this bag. Not because I don’t like it. On the contrary, I think that it’s a minimalist masterpiece, and there are so few details to describe and so much aura to take in.

$1,800 is a lot to pay for a handbag, but since the Pure Paddington is obviously going to become a quick cult classic, it seems, somehow, reasonable.

More Features Of The Chloe Pure Paddington Leather Duffle Bag

• 13″ x 9″ x 8″ size
• 6″ strap drop
• Fully lined in black twill

Get this Chloé Pure Paddington Duffle:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Chloe bags on BagBunch
• The Botkier Jaden Hobo, a larger alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Chloe bags on eBay
• Other black leather duffles on eBay:
  [phpbay]black leather duffle, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Michael Kors’ sometimes understated, sometimes boho approach to design has always left me feeling a little confused. Frankly, I prefer his unabashedly trendy and more reasonably-priced MICHAEL diffusion line for its consistency. But this Tonne fold-over clutch is both elegant and also relatively affordable.

The subtly pebbled black leather on the Tonne is well chosen. It’s smooth enough to look sleek, but the texture gives it a classic appeal. The silver zipper and hardware details give it an ever-so-slightly edgy look without hitting you over the head with it.

The simple fold-over envelope design is perfectly minimal. It’s not really large enough to hold more than a few essentials, but anything more would muddy up the design. The snakeskin trimmed zipper pull is an opulent, modern touch.

At $495, you would be hard-pressed to find a more elegant evening bag that’s so versatile.

More Features Of The Michael Kors Tonne Fold-Over Leather Clutch

• 12″ x 7″ x 2″ size
• Fully lined in gold leather
• Internal zip-fastening and pouch pockets

Get this Michael Kors Tonne Clutch:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Micahel Kors bags on BagBunch
• The Marc by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Hobo Bag, a very cool alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Michael Kors handbags on eBay
• Other black leather clutches on eBay:

[phpbay]black leather clutch,2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Charles L Thomas walks on the wild side with this retro styled Raquel bag.

After seeing shrinking violets like the label’s Melanie and Kathy bags, I was surprised by the vampish nature of this purse. The black haircalf center panel in combination with the cheetah spotted hair calf sides is so bold and seductive. So is the retro shape with its sexy curves. That old-fashioned approach might seem a bit kitschy to some, but I embrace the vintage spirit in which this purse was created.

The exterior is impressive, but it’s matched by the gorgeous interior. The rich gold satin lining sets the scene, but it’s those extra touches like the sunken zip top closure, leather trimmed pockets, and a key ring strap which make a lasting impact.

My only criticism is that the handles seem a little long for the bag. That makes carrying easy, but it also makes the Raquel seem a bit out of proportion. Still, if that’s the worst thing you can say about a bag it’s not a bad thing. At $279, even the Raquel’s price is right.

More Features of This Charles L Thomas Haircalf Shoulder Bag

• A gilded gold logo
• Protective feet on the base
• Dual handles with a 7.5 inch drop
• Measures 11 x 10 x 4 inches

Get this Charles L Thomas Raquel Handbag:

• Available to buy at the Charles L Thomas website
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Charles L Thomas bags on BagBunch
• The Bally Macy bag, a great alternative to this haircalf bag.
• The Charles L Thomas website
• Other haircalf bags on eBay:

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

Christian Dior reopened the doors of its 57th Street New York flagship store in fabulous fashion recently. Natalie Portman, Leighton Meester, and Liv Tyler all turned out to celebrate the occasion.

Few of us ever get invites to such exclusive parties, but we can still soak up some of the Christian Dior festivities by getting our hands on the limited edition handbags created to mark the occasion.

There are four variations of the iconic Lady Dior bag exclusive to the New York store. The most affordable option is a lambskin version, which features a jaunty tassel. With just 56 made, its price of $3000 seems pretty reasonable. The ultra exclusive nature of the mini embroidered satin Lady Dior sees it priced higher at $5200. That’s what happens when there are just 10 up for grabs!

More exotic tastes will gravitate to the medium degrade python version and the diamond encrusted crocodile Lady Dior pictured. Just 10 of the former were made, and priced at a modest $6100. But the crocodile bag is the real jewel of the collection. It’s embellished with 628 diamonds, each cut with 57 facets to represent the flagship store’s location. Just one was made, which stands to reason as there’s probably only one person willing to part with $300, 000 to own it!

If all those prices are too rich for your blood, perhaps you’ll settle for one of the 20 limited edition satin clutches. This petite purse is priced at a more budget friendly, but no less exorbitant, $1400.

John Galliano has personally signed each piece from the limited edition New York range. This autograph, along with the “Piece Unique New York” plaque is your guarantee of authenticity.

You’ll need to be quick if you hope to snap up one of these limited edition accessories from the Christian Dior 57th Street store.

[Source: The Bag Snob]

Christian Dior Lady Dior Bags on eBay

[phpbay]Lady Dior, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Charles David takes an uncharacteristically no nonsense approach with this Griffith Half Flap Bag.

I’m used to admiring unusual designs from Charles David, so I almost passed this bag over. That would have been a mistake though, because classic purses like this always have a place in our closets. The conservative color palette is given a lift with the glazed leather treatment. This finish is slightly glossy, but not as ostentatious as a patent. Its subtle sheen pales in comparison to the modern polished hardware.

The traditional flap style is pleasant enough, but I’m really revved by the Griffith’s practical perks. It’s got a dual compartment design, which makes keeping your essentials in order a breeze. The single strap is a little too short for easy over-the-shoulder carrying, but Charles David has added an attachable long strap for the days you’re on the move.

As it doesn’t follow the trends, the Griffith will never go out of style. That makes its $235 retail price seem like an affordable investment in your fashion future.

More Features of This Charles David Half Flap Handbag

• Grosgrain lined interior
• Magnetic closure
• A single strap with a 6.5 inch drop
• Measures 6.5 x 11 x 4 inches
• Made in China
• Also available in black and plum

Get this Charles David Griffith Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Charles David bags on BagBunch
• The Charles David Griffith hobo bag, a great alternative to this half flap bag.
• Searching for more Charles David bags on eBay
• Other Charles David Griffith bags on eBay:

[phpbay]Charles David Griffith, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

If you’re lucky this holiday season, you’ll be jetting off in pursuit of warmer weather. If there’s any cash left after you’ve bought your tickets, you may like to tote your vacation swag in one of the luxurious new travel accessories from Nancy Gonzalez.

The exotic expert has just launched her first crocodile travel collection exclusively through Bergdorf Goodman stores. There are 11 pieces in all including small passport holders and iPad sleeves and large rolling trolleys and suitcases. They’re available in a fun range of colors, from traditional beige and black to more playful orange, turquoise, and pink.

Of course, this level of exotic luxury doesn’t come cheaply. The passport holders cost $425, and the crocodile trolley pictured is priced at a whopping $7500.

Perhaps I’ll have to stick with my beat up old travel bags for now. Those Nancy Gonzalez pieces are lovely but I do need to save something for spending money!

[Source: The Bag Snob]

Crocodile Suitcases on eBay

[phpbay]crocodile suitcase, 3, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Chanel’s black quilted bags are classic, but every now and then I long for something just a bit different. The French fashion house delivers with this red suede purse.

It has all of the classic Chanel elements, from the diamond quilted finish to the woven chain straps. But it’s what’s different about this purse that really sets it apart. The traditional black leather is gone, replaced with wintery red suede. The softly curved top is another unique touch; it helps the purse stand out without making it too ostentatious.

The soft suede body gives way to a luxurious leather lining inside. The sophisticated slender shape means we don’t have as much storage space as many everyday bags, but I think it’s worth traveling a little lighter to have this purse on your arm. It has three internal pockets, and a top zip to keep everything you’re carrying secure.

Authentic Chanel never comes cheaply, and at $2390 this quilted bag is no exception. That is a hefty fee considering how quickly suede shows its age, but if you handle it with kid gloves it might be worth the splurge.

More Features of This Chanel Quilted Strap Bag

• Gold-toned hardware
• Comes with a Chanel authentication card

Get this Chanel Red Suede Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Chanel bags on BagBunch
• The Chanel Quilted Patent wristlet bag, a great alternative to this red bag.
• Searching for more Chanel bags on eBay
• Other suede Chanel bags on eBay:

[phpbay]Chanel suede, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

I don’t know about everyone else, but all the resort wear I’m seeing on  the shelves is making me hungry for a vacation. I don’t exactly live in the frozen tundra, but 78 degrees and sunny sounds pretty amazing right now. And this Scarlet shopper is just begging for a day on the beach.

The colors and textures of this tote are exuberant and exciting. The leather has been snakeskin-embossed and zebra-printed, and on top of that, it’s been patch-worked into one of the most fanciful designs I’ve seen all season. It’s got a jeweled rainbow aesthetic that is really innovative.

The shape of the shopper is pretty standard, which is good, because the print and texture are both so busy that if the bag was more complicated the whole endeavor would just be overkill. I don’t absolutely love the tan piping, but it’s probably a sensible neutral element.

At $895, the Scarlet isn’t the most practical or versatile bag, but it’s really eye-catching and exciting.

More Features Of The Jimmy Choo Scarlet Large Printed Shopper

• 16″ x 13″ x 7″ size
• 9″ strap drop
• Fully lined in brown twill

Get this Jimmy Choo Scarlet Shopper:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Jimmy Choo bags on BagBunch
• The Jimmy Choo Simone hobo, a stylish alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Jimmy Choo bags on eBay
• Other snakeskin shoppers on eBay:
• [phpbay]snakeskin shopper, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

I have never been a fan of Michael Kors, but his last few seasons have really been impressing me. Until I see bags like this one, that is, and then I’m reminded all over again why I don’t like his designs in the first place. This Crescent fringed bag is a boho nightmare.

The tan leather is a nice, easy to wear shade, and the shine on it is reminiscent of something you might find in Western wear. The fringe is also a bit Western-inspired, although it takes things to a totally absurd level. I’m not anti-fringe or anything, but let’s be serious; there’s more fringe on this bag than you’d need for a whole line of bags. Bohemian is one thing, but this, I’m afraid, is just something trying to pass itself off as bohemian.

The shape of the bag isn’t spectacular, either. Even though it’s called the Crescent, it’s not actually crescent-shaped. It’s more like a half moon, and a pretty awkward one at that. This is exactly the kind of bag that it’s impossible to find something inside.

Basically, I don’t like anything about the Crescent, including the price. $995 is just too much to pay for an eyesore, even a designer one.

More Features Of The Michael Kors Crescent Fringed Leather Hobo Bag

• 20″ x 15″ x 2″ size
• 15″ handle drop
• Fully lined in beige canvas

Get this Michael Kors Crescent Fringed Hobo:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Micahel Kors bags on BagBunch
• The Marc by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Hobo Bag, a very cool alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Michael Kors handbags on eBay
• Other fringed hobos on eBay:

[phpbay]fringe hobo,2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]