A leopard may not be able to change its spots, but it seems a designer may be able to alter its creative vision. After decades of producing the same old quilted patterned bags, Vera Bradley has begun to shake things up. The cheekily named Cha Cha gives us one of these more exciting new looks.

It’s an appropriate name, as this bag certainly reminds me of something a ballroom dancer may wear with its layer upon layer of ruffles. Each frill is made from an alternating swatch of material, so I guess in some ways this is like a new take on patchwork.

Whatever it is, I like it. The colors and prints clash delightfully with the bold turquoise leather shoulder straps. That might intimidate some conservative girls, but I think it only makes it more versatile. I wouldn’t wear it with a heavily patterned ensemble, but it should be able to pick up the colors of most other outfits.

Vera Bradley has never let us down on the practical front, and she’s not about to start now. This is a good mid-sized bag, not too big or too small. The inner zip compartment and pair of slip pockets are really all you need to keep your small items organized, and there’s enough space for most everyday large items.

All that new found sassiness doesn’t come with an inflated price tag either. You’ll find Vera Bradley’s Cha Cha bag for $58.

More Features of This Vera Bradley Ruffled Handbag

• Hidden magnetic closure
• Dual handles with an 8.75 inch drop
• Measures 11 x 9 x 3.25 inches

Get this Vera Bradley Cha Cha Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Vera Bradley Cha Cha, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the 23pines in Vera Land eBay store to see if this Vera Bradley bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Vera Bradley bags on BagBunch
• The Vera Bradley Cha Cha bag in Simply Violet, a purple alternative to this Call Me Coral bag.
• Searching for more Vera Bradley bags on eBay

Stella McCartney is dedicated to preserving the environment and the humane treatment of animals. That’s why all of her designs are done in faux fabrics. While I find her political point of view admirable, what I’ve found is that she often chooses materials that don’t quite work with her designs. This Falabella messenger is good example of what I mean.

The black faux suede on this version of the Falabella is a little too thin for a bag of this size. It comes off looking a little floppy and more than a little sloppy. While the designer might have been going for slouchy, it’s just a little too slouchy to be appealing. Plus, the chain trim weighs the bag down further, and pulls the bag awkwardly.

The shape of the bag is simple and elegant. It’s a pared down, elegant interpretation of the messenger style that might work really well in a sturdier fabric. The tiny chain strap is disastrous. You could put maybe a few small items in this bag before it became unbearably uncomfortable to carry.

For $1,295, I expect a lot more for my money. Save yours and skip this not so exciting messenger.

More Features Of The Stella McCartney Falabella Chain-Trimmed Messenger Bag

• 13″ x 12″ x 6″ size
• 17″ strap drop
• Fully lined in stone cotton

Get this Stella McCartney Falabella Messenger:

• 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 faux leather messengers on eBay:[phpbay]faux leather messenger handbag, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Alexander McQueen’s skull clutches are cultish favorites among cutting edge fashionistas. Their combination of high class glamour and punk rock DIY spirit is irresistible. This Byzantine Queen Skull version of the clutch is the most ornate and opulent to date.

The patent brown crocodile would have been an extraordinary touch of luxury all on its own, but Alexander McQueen didn’t stop there. The entire front surface of the bag has been encrusted with a jeweled Byzantine pattern. This look may be a little much, but that’s sort of the point. It’s so much that you just can’t help loving it.

The Queen Skull uses the same hard case as the rest of the line, and its simplicity works perfectly here to showcase the fine details, such as the studded edging and over-the-top clasp. This is one of the most elaborate closing mechanisms that I’ve ever seen. The queen’s ruby eyes and antique gold tone bring out all the sparkle of the Byzantine design.

At $9,750, the Byzantine Queen Skull clutch is the priciest in the line. But price really isn’t the point with a bag this decadent. You just can’t get this level of luxury for much less.

More Features Of The Alexander McQueen Byzantine Queen Skull Crocodile Box Clutch

• Fully lined in leather
• Swarovski crystal embellishment

Get this Alexander McQueen Byzantine Queen Skull Clutch:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Alexander McQueen bags on BagBunch
• The Alexander Wang Tina bag, a fabulous alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Alexander McQueen bags on eBay
• Other Alexander McQueen clutches on eBay:
  [phpbay]alexander mcqueen clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

What qualities does a really glamorous handbag need? A great shape? Tick! A great color? Tick! An unusual pattern? Tick! This Medigriffe tote really ticks all the boxes!

OK, so I may be a tad over-enthusiastic. However, one look at this fire engine red handbag is enough to persuade most people of its virtues. If the color wasn’t enough, many people would then be convinced by the sophisticated ostrich pattern embossed on the surface of the leather, or the traditional and timeless shape.

OK, so a red purse isn’t going to be as practical as a black or a brown one. However, it is more acceptable in the workplace than some other shades, and it has a certain powerful attitude that will complete any business outfit. Plus, it is practical inside, and that takes it into the territory of a real investment piece that you might, heaven forbid, actually use!

You may not have heard of Medigriffe before (I certainly hadn’t), but this luxury handbag has managed to make me pay attention!

More Features of this Ostrich Embossed Frame Bag

• Available in other colors
• Genuine leather exterior
• Multiple pockets and compartments
• Optional long strap

Get this Red Medigriffe Tote:

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

[phpbay]medigriffe ostrich, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More ostrich leather bags on BagBunch
• The Jalda Croc-embossed evening bag, a great alternative to this exotic bag.
• Searching for more ostrich leather bags on eBay

Being a mom is never easy, but Stone Mountain hopes to take away a little of the stress with its Jackie Diaper bag.

You might still have a few vomit stains and orange juice spills on your attire, but you’ll look a lot more stylish when you sling this bag over your shoulder. The basic black finish is a little bit boring, but it also makes a nice change from those childish diaper bag prints. It’s also very versatile, so whether you’re slumming it in sweats or dressed up for a luncheon with your gal pals it’ll work for you.

The nylon finish isn’t the most opulent, but it is practical when it’s around little ones. It’s water and stain resistant, especially in black. The leather trim dresses things up a bit without sending the cost sky high.

Looks are all well and good, but any mom wants to know how a diaper bag will work for them. The good news is that this one will, with pockets inside and out and a matching change pad.

The regular handles are long enough for moms to just grab and go, but if you’re planning a long day out you may prefer to attach the stroller straps.

At $125, this affordable Stone Mountain diaper bag is the kind of purse that will serve you well when your kids are tiny, and once they’ve grown.

More Features of This Stone Mountain Nylon Diaper Bag

• Nylon lined interior
• Zip top closure
• Dual handles with a 10 inch drop
• Measures 12.5 x 18 x 5.5 inches
• Made in China

Get this Stone Mountain Jackie Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Stone Mountain Jackie, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Buy’s Internet Superstore eBay store to see if this Stone Mountain bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Stone Mountain bags on BagBunch
• The Stone Mountain Jackie bag in the Renaissance print, a great alternative to this black bag.
• Searching for more Stone Mountain bags on eBay

Beauty.com has teamed up with New York based designer Charlotte Ronson to rewards it holiday shoppers. All customers that spend $100 or more at Beauty.com will receive a Charlotte Ronson Lolita cosmetics purse packed with beauty essentials.

The purse has a Madonna-esque 80s vibe with its peek-a-boo lace overlay and black patent piping. But it’s also quite practical, with its internal pockets for organizing tissues, lip gloss, and other small items.

“Lace is one of my favorite fabrications; it’s versatile, has texture, it’s delicate but also leaves an impact and makes an instant impression,” explained Charlotte Ronson. “It’s sleek and sexy especially when in black; this is why I really wanted to create a makeup bag incorporating lace. The lace selected is of a romantic floral motif and the great thing is it’s lined in a clear vinyl so you don’t lose the transparency of the lace and it can be easily cleaned. I think a make-up bag holds all of a girl’s secrets so it should be just as special and it’s definitely a great holiday gift idea.“

The case comes stuffed with sample-sized beauty products including eye shadow, cleansing milk, hairspray, face cream, and fragrances. That should make you feel a bit better about that initial Beauty.com splurge!

[Source: PR Newswire]

Cosmetics Bags on eBay

[phpbay]cosmetics, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

You’ll be pretty in pink carrying this cute Leoni cross-body purse from Nine West.

This is a very pink purse, although in a color called ultra pink we wouldn’t expect anything different. If you’re not a girly girl, it’s likely to be too pink for you. Personally though I think the Leoni is small enough to make the color work. On a larger canvas it could be gaudy, but here it provides a refreshing pop of color.

The pretty pink shade is given a little edge with a delicately studded belt. The taste for studs may be waning, but these tiny nail heads are so unobtrusive I’m sure no one will mind them too much. I also like the soft pleated body, which adds volume and a dash of drama.

Nine West call it a small bag, and while that’s a relative term it’s one worth heeding. I know I could manage to put everything I really need into it, but I’m also no pack rat. Note its dimensions, especially if you’re hoping to make it your next everyday handbag.

At $69.95 I think Nine West has created a cute and relatively affordable cross-body bag, but its size may prove the stumbling block for many modern fashionistas.

More Features of This Nine West Studded Cross-Body Bag

• Made of synthetic
• Nylon lined interior
• Two interior wall pockets
• An adjustable strap with a 23 inch drop
• Measures 9.2 x 10 x 5 inches
• Made in China
• Also available in black and white

Get this Nine West Leoni Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Nine West Leoni crossbody, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Trendy Tots with Lots eBay store to see if this Nine West bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Nine West bags on BagBunch
• The Nine West satchel bag, a great alternative to this cross-body bag.
• Searching for more Nine West bags on eBay

Ecoist has launched two new collections just in time for the holidays. Fans of the original candy wrapper bags can choose between the Hollywood inspired Glam Collection, and the South American styled Inca Collection.

“This holiday season Ecoist found inspiration in both the classic and the contemporary; The Glam collection is timeless and unique at the same time. The Inca Collection celebrates the past while staying innovative. People will be impressed that upcycled candy wrappers can look this refined,” enthused Ecoist co-founder Jonathan Marcoschamer.

The Glam collection recalls iconic screen legends with styles like the Audrey satchel and the Marilyn evening clutch. More modern film goddesses are also celebrated with the compact Gwyneth clutch and the larger Cameron one. I love the blend of retro influences and sophisticated contemporary fashion shown here, but if you prefer a more tribal look the Inca Collection may be more to your taste.

This range combines traditional Peruvian patterns with the signature Ecoist woven finish. Pompoms, floral motifs, and other vibrant decorations give the handbags a dose of whimsy. These accents are also eco-friendly, as they’re made from natural cotton colored with vegetable dyes. Profits from these handbags help to support local artists in Cusco, Trujillo, Ayacuho along with the other Peruvian craftsman that make Ecoist handbags.

With numbers strictly limited on both collections, I wouldn’t delay if you hope to snap one up. Shop for these purses exclusively at Ecoist.com.

[Source: Benzinga]
[Image Source: Ecoist website]

Ecoist Bags on eBay

[phpbay]Ecoist, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Tiny cosmetics purses are OK when you need to take your lipstick and powder to a club, but they’re useless if you’re planning on stepping out for more than a few hours. That’s when something like the Sant Elmo Colin bag from Kate Spade comes into its own.

While it’s too unwieldy for daily use, it’s ideal for taking on those business trips or extended holiday getaways. It’s generously sized, with another smaller case hidden away inside. The large case has two zippered pockets hidden underneath the lid and one in the side wall for holding jewelry and other small items.

The Sant Elmo Colin’s silk faille fabric may have been more luxurious without its PVC coating, but it wouldn’t have been so practical. This clear covering ensures that any lipstick smears or lotion spills simply wipe away with a damp cloth.

Practicality aside, the colored stripes that adorn this Sant Elmo Stripe are incredibly cute. And for me, that’s what really sells this Kate Spade travel set. Practical perks are well and good, but unless there’s looks to back it up it’s hard to convince anyone to spend up.

$125 is probably too much to pay for a cosmetics bag, but when we get two as we do here it’s a tempting proposition.

More Features of This Kate Spade Striped Cosmetics Bag

• Double zip around closure
• 14-karat gold plated hardware
• A wide top handle
• Large case measures 5.5 x 10 x 7 inches
• Small case measures 10 x 3 x 2.75 inches

Get this Kate Spade Sant Elmo Colin Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Kate Spade Sant Elmo Colin, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Elle’s Designer Accessories eBay store to see if this Coach Patchwork bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Kate Spade bags on BagBunch
• The yellow striped Kate Spade Sant Elmo Colin bag, a great alternative to this colorful bag.
• Searching for more Kate Spade bags on eBay

The name Belle de Jour comes from a film featuring the eternally chic Catherine Deneuve, who plays a bored housewife who decides to become a call girl in her spare time. I guess that sounds pretty low brow, but with Madame Deneuve as the lead,  it’s actually a beautiful film that showcases a lot of fabulous fashion. This Belle de Jour clutch is a sexy, sassy, but still somewhat restrained bag that looks decidedly like something the main character might carry.

The metallic tweed material is a stroke of pure genius. Since it’s tweed, it automatically seems a little conservative and subdued, but the metallic threads bring out its wilder, more glamorous side. The muted color palette helps maintain the balance.

The simple, classic shape of the Belle de Jour contributes to its split personality. The foldover pouch has always been one of my favorite styles, because its unmuddied surface area is is perfect for showcasing fabulous materials like this metallic tweed. I don’t usually go in for logos, but the YSL monogram on the front is a classy touch.

This bag is a reasonably priced designer purchase at $525, and a timelessly chic one, at that.

More Features of the Yves Saint Laurent Belle De Jour Tweed Clutch

• 11″ x 6″ x 2″ size
• Fully lined in black leather and satin

Get this Belle De Jour Clutch by Yves Saint Laurent:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Yves Saint Laurent bags on BagBunch
• The Halston Foxy Pochette, an edgy alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Yves Saint Laurent bags on eBay
• Other tweed clutches on eBay:[phpbay]tweed clutch purse, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]