B. Makowsky Sydney Satchel | Aqua Synthetic Pyramid Studded Handbag

Posted on: Oct 30

B. Makowsky Sydney SatchelIf you’re not quite prepared to let go of studs yet, this Sydney Satchel from B. Makowsky could be your bag.

The designer shows uncharacteristic restraint, using rows of pyramid studs along the tops of the front slip pockets to add edge without overwhelming the satchel. B. Makowsky has never been a designer to embrace white space, but perhaps when the space is a bright aqua blue he feels a bit differently!

The modern exterior is matched by a really cleverly designed interior. The zippered center divider makes the generously sized interior seem quite manageable. The side walls are packed with more pockets, so the hardest thing is remembering where you put that ringing cell phone!

The dual handles are another lovely perk. They’re a bit longer than the average, perfect for those girls who just want to grab their bag without any fuss as they head out the door.

This Sydney bag has many great qualities, but they stop at its cost. The $278 price tag seems a bit high for a bag that’s made from synthetic, but if you can get it on sale it’s certainly worth considering.

More Features of This B. Makowsky Studded Synthetic Satchel

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Leopard print lined interior
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 9.5 inch drop
  • Measures 17.5 x 9 x 6.5 inches
  • Comes with a dust bag
  • Also available in citrine, iris, ocean blue, and white

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Jimmy Choo Blythe Large Perforated Handbag | Edgy Black Biker Chic Satchel

Posted on: Oct 29

Jimmy Choo Blythe Large Perforated Leather ToteJimmy Choo has been a little bit inconsistent, lately, sometimes putting out timeless classics with a little edgy charm, but sometimes putting out flashy over-the-top bags that are barely wearable. This Blythe bag, fortunately, is one of the better Choo bags I’ve seen, lately.

There’s something about perforated black leather that automatically calls to mind motorcycles. This is no exception, although it’s definitely on the chic-er side of biker chic. The prevalence of silver hardware adds to the edgy, tough appearance, but is kept to a minimum.

The shape of this bag is a little bit lacking, as far as I’m concerned. It’s just a little too big to be so squarish, and it comes out looking a bit bulky. The straps on the sides are purely decorative, and their slimness keeps them elegant rather than adding to the biker look.

At $1,895, the Blythe is pretty reasonably priced for Choo’s designs, but it’s a little more awkward than I’d like for the price.

More Features Of The Jimmy Choo Blythe Large Perforated Handbag

  • 15″ x 11″ x 8″ size
  • 8″ handle drop
  • Fully lined in camel suede
  • Interior pouch pocket

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MICHAEL Michael Kors Beverley Stamped Leather Clutch | Affordably Chic Snakeskin Embossed Foldover Bag

Posted on: Oct 29

Michael Michael Kors Beverley Stamped Leather ClutchMichael Kors is not one of my favorite designers, but every now and again he makes something fabulous that reminds me why he’s one of the most prominent American designers today. This Beverley clutch is a simple, elegant bag with a little bit of edge that will easily become a wardrobe staple.

I am notoriously dubious about faux snakeskin. Even the most expensive reproductions are often lackluster. But this python-embossed patent leather is amazingly realistic. Not to mention the fact that using leather instead of a more exotic skin keeps the price down to a tenth of what it could be.

The double flap closure on this envelope has an elegant, streamlined look. The flatness of the bag isn’t the most convenient, in terms of what you will be able to carry in it, but it does look amazing. And isn’t that what counts at only $170?

More Features Of The MICHAEL Michael Kors Beverley Stamped Leather Clutch

  • 10″ x 7″ size
  • Concealed snap closures
  • Fully lined in designer-embossed twill

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Proenza Schouler PS 11 Small Leather Satchel | Long-Awaited Gorgeous Minimal Messenger

Posted on: Oct 29

Proenza Schouler PS11 Small Leather SatchelWhen Proenza Schouler finally released its accessories line in 2008, the minimal, unisex bags flew off the shelves. Since then, everyone has been waiting for an encore. This much anticipated new satchel retains Proenza Schouler’s pared down design sensibility, but adds a few new flourishes.

This clean cut black leather messenger design is anything but simple once you look closely at it. The flap closure conceals a convenient front compartment. The shortness of the flap and its rounded edges give the satchel a slightly more feminine and slightly less tailored look. Personally, I prefer the previous line’s more rugged minimalism, but I think a lot of women will like this ever-so-slightly softer style.

The front strap is a quirky detail that seems somewhat out of keeping with Proenza Schouler’s usual aesthetic. The press-stud fastening is simple and geometric, but the grill detail is a little more decorative than I’d like. Also, the way the front pocket converges with the three straps looks a little messy, which just isn’t the PS way.

Despite the slight divergence from its usual look, I think Proenza Schouler will find a lot of takers on this $1,850 bag.

More Features Of The Proenza Schouler PS 11 Small Leather Satchel

  • 11″ x 8″ x 4″ size
  • 21″ handle drop
  • Detachable shoulder strap

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Coach Madison Hippie Shoulder Bag | Convertible Pleated Apricot Leather Purse

Posted on: Oct 29

Coach Madison HippieThere’s not a hint of tie dye to be seen in this unusually conservative Madison Hippie shoulder bag from Coach.

I’m not quite sure what inspired the name, as this bag doesn’t appear to be rebelling against the man in the slightest. But I do like the quiet, classic looks of this pale apricot purse. There are just a few gentle pleats along the top and a shiny Coach nameplate to interrupt the light pebble leather. Some folks may find it boring, but it’d be ideal for lunches at the country club and business meetings with new clients.

Its style is reserved, but it’ll work harder than you might expect. The interior is spacious and packed with pockets. Most days the regular handle should suffice, but if you’ve got some errands planned I’d attach the longer cross-body strap.

The pastel apricot color is what’s drawn me to this bag, but I’m not sure how it’ll stack up to everyday use. Make sure you handle it with care to avoid it aging prematurely. So long as you can keep it clean, the $249 price tag seems very reasonable.

More Features of This Coach Convertible Shoulder Bag

  • Brass-toned hardware
  • Top magnetic closure
  • Fabric lined interior
  • A zip pocket and two slip pockets inside
  • A single shoulder strap with a 6 inch drop
  • A 37.5 inch detachable strap with an 18 inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 11 x 4 inches

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Christian Siriano Expands Affordable Line for Payless | Project Runway Designer Signs Multi-Year Deal

Posted on: Oct 29

Christian SirianoChristian Siriano is one of my favorite Project Runway discoveries, and his affordable shoes and handbags for Payless have been fabulous and fierce. So I’m thrilled to see there’s much more where they came from.

Siriano has just signed a new multi-year deal with Payless Shoesource, which will see his accessories line expanded over the coming years. Currently there are four to six shoe styles and two coordinating handbags, but the new range will feature up to 20 different accessories each season, with new designs to be introduced every six months.

This expanded Payless collection, for me, is an opportunity to branch out even more and reach more women with my designs,” Siriano said. “I’ll draw inspiration from lots more everyday elements to create amazing looks including a range of boots, casuals, flats, sandals and handbags in addition to dress styles.

I’m amazed at the handbags Siriano has made for the line; they always look like they’re worth much more than their $25 to $60 price tags. Are you excited to see what will come next?

[Source: Just Style]
[Image Source: Kerosene Photography/Wikipedia Commons]

Christian Siriano Bags on eBay

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Vanessa Bruno Athe Porte Monnaie Wallet | Simple Purple Pebbled Leather Tassel Zips Purse

Posted on: Oct 29

Vanessa Bruno Athe Porte Monnaie WalletVanessa Bruno keeps things chic and simple with this Athe Porte Monnaie Wallet. That name is a bit of a mouthful, but the purse behind it is far less fancy.

This really is a stock standard wallet, with a few appealing perks. The tassels hanging from the zipper pulls give it a bit of a boho feel, which works well with the rich plummy shade of purple.

But you strip all that away and you’ve got a pretty simple wallet. The leather lined interior looks luxurious, but the features are lacking. I like the zippered pocket and bill slot, but the six card slots aren’t going to get me very far on my next trip to the mall.

There are plenty of wallets out there that offer less, but their designers don’t charge us $232 for the privilege of carrying them. This isn’t a bad wallet, but it is pretty pricey for what it is.

More Features of This Vanessa Bruno Purple Wallet

  • Embossed logo lettering
  • Silver-toned hardware
  • Two-way wraparound zip
  • Measures 4.5 x 7 x 0.5 inches

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New Caribou Trail Bike Bags from Frost River | Practical Handcrafted Canvas Handbags for Cyclists

Posted on: Oct 29

Frost River Caribou Trail Bike BagsFrost River’s new Caribou Trail Bike Bags are made for adventurers looking to discover the world on two wheels.

The handcrafted bags are designed to carry everything you might need on the trails, from your trusty repair kit to a sandwich for lunch. It might be a bit fiddly to buckle up the leather straps, but they help to keep your stuff secure even when the bag’s over stuffed.

The Caribou Trail Bike Bags have a versatile design, with multiple lashing points allowing them to hang from bike handlebars or seats. Their waxed cotton bodies might not be very luxurious, but it helps to protect your precious cargo from unexpected showers.

Frost River stands by its bags, and offers a lifetime guarantee on all materials and craftsmanship. That makes the $130 price tag seem reasonable for anyone who spends a lot of time on two wheels, from adventurers to everyday commuters. Get yours from selected American retailers and the Frost River website.

[Source: 24-7 Press Release]

Frost River Bags on eBay

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Marcela Calvet The Bacall I Bag | Original Hollywood Inspired Lizard Evening Purse

Posted on: Oct 29

Marcela Calvet BacallWhen my parents welcomed me into their family, their first born, there was only one name they could think of to give me: Lauren. They’d long admired Lauren Bacall on the big screen, and thought if their daughter could inherit a little of her beauty, strength, and grace she’d be a lucky girl indeed. Now as an adult I’m also fascinated by my namesake, and thrilled that Marcela Calvet seems every bit as enamored with her.

This beautiful bag is the label’s first Bacall, and in my opinion its best. Just like the original star, her design is classic, yet somehow her beauty is just a little bit unusual. I’ve never seen a flap bag with this half moon shape, or such an unusual fold-over design. The lizard skin too is compelling, with its striking blue undertones. It’s beauty like this that makes designers hesitate to use manmade skins; it really is lovely.

My only hesitation is with the shoulder strap. Its golden chains just seem a bit too chunky for the purse’s design. Thankfully though there is a lizard skin center, so that metal won’t rest on our shoulders.

The Bacall isn’t a very large bag, but it’s surprisingly well appointed. A discreet slash pocket is hidden behind the front flap, and there’s a zippered pocket in the back. I like this one, as our valuables will stay just that bit more secure when they’re pressed against our body. Inside the features continue, with another zippered pocket and a cell phone pouch.

The $740 asking price isn’t exactly small change, but it’s more than reasonable for a handcrafted bag made from an exotic skin.

More Features of This Marcela Calvet Lizard Skin Bag

  • Gold-gilt hardware
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Lined in Argentine calfskin
  • A single shoulder chain
  • Measures 6.25 x 9 x 2 inches

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Anya Hindmarch Miami Patent Leather Card Case | Extravagant Shiny Black Case

Posted on: Oct 28

Anya Hindmarch Miami Patent Leather Card CaseAnya Hindmarch is known for making modern, feminine accessories. Sometimes I find them a bit boring, but not this gorgeous patent leather business card case. This is the kind of luxury item that I can really get behind.

The black patent leather on this case is so shiny that you can see your reflection in it. As a look, I love it, but if you’re really giving out your business cards often enough to warrant a $200 case to carry them in, you might also want to invest in a polishing cloth. The effect of patent leather this glossy can be ruined with a single sticky finger print.

The shape of this case is sleekly rounded at the corners, which gives it a slightly more feminine look than your average simple rectangle. The small Hindmarch bow logo helps in that department, too, without taking away from the minimal design. The case opens with a small gold clasp and the interior features sections for “cards out” and “cards in.”

I don’t even have business cards, but I’m thinking about ordering some just to have an excuse to carry this chic little number around.

More Features Of The Anya Hindmarch Miami Patent Leather Card Case

  • 5″ x 3″ x 3″ size
  • 1″ strap drop

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