Ora Recycled Leather Bags Makes Reclaimed Cowhide Into Green Accessories

Posted on: Jul 2

Many people feel leather handbags can’t possibly be green, but when I see designers like Randi Obenauer creating cute fashion accessories from reclaimed leather I wonder whether even the most ardent eco warriors might change their tune.

Through her label Ora Recycled Leather Bags, Obenauer creates the eco-friendly accessories we want from the luxury fabrics we crave. Her bags are made from reclaimed leather obtained from furniture makers, old sample books, and pre-loved leather garments. Many of these leather fashions are sourced from thrift stores, so they help people in need as well as the planet.

Ora Recycled Leather Bags are green inside and out, with organic twill linings protecting the interiors. Designs like the Bike Bags and Billy Backpacks are made for active girls, while the crystal pouches should suit the most spiritual fashionistas.

Ora Recycled Leather Bags are available in selected Canadian outlets and from the brand’s online store. While they’re made in Vancouver, British Columbia, the designer will ship them anywhere in the world.

[Source: Magnifeco]
[Image Source: Ora Bags]

Recycled Leather Bags on eBay

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Ananas Nadia Hobo | Classic Black Lambskin Crescent Purse

Posted on: Jul 2

Ananas tends to be a bit of a fashion rule breaker, so I was surprised to see the label release something as traditional as the Nadia. But as we all know, traditional doesn’t have to mean tired.

In fact, with so many designers trying to reinvent the hobo bag one which follows the rules actually seems fresh. The classic crescent shape, soft slouchy leather, and clean lines are exactly what we expect. But it’s the execution that really sets the Nadia apart.

That sumptuous lambskin in classic black gives the Nadia polish and poise. It removes this hobo from the boho world and makes it seem much more upper crust. Even the wooden accents can’t bring it back to Woodstock. These wooden bits aren’t just for show; they help the handle convert from shoulder strap to cross-body with style.

The Nadia is sophisticated but not unapproachable, the kind of purse that would work for any situation and sparkle. The good news is that the design suits its versatility. There’s enough space to help us make the nine to five transition, and the leather trimmed pockets will withstand everyday use.

Some may feel that such a simple design isn’t worth the $425 that Ananas charges, but the luxury materials and classic good looks are tempting me.

More Features of This Ananas Lambskin Hobo

  • Printed plainweave lining
  • Zip top closure
  • An adjustable shoulder strap with a maximum 18 inch drop
  • Measures 6.5 x 14 x 3.25 inches
  • Made in the United States of America

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Marc Jacobs Releases Limited Edition Veronica for Paris Galeries Lafayette Store Opening

Posted on: Jul 2

This September Marc Jacobs will open a boutique showcasing his adored accessories inside Paris’ Galeries Lafayette. When it opens it will offer more of the American designer’s goods than any other store in Europe.

Shoppers will get a sneak peek of what’s to come when a Marc Jacobs pop-up boutique opens on the Parisian store’s first floor from July 5 to August 7.

And one of those things to come will be an ultra luxe version of Marc Jacobs’ famous Veronica bag designed to commemorate the store opening. This is a real stunner in magnificent taupe colored crocodile. We can breathe easy knowing our precious cargo will stay safe inside thanks to the built-in metal lock.

I assume that anyone who can afford the exorbitant $14,800 price tag has some very precious cargo indeed. Of course, that lock isn’t likely to ward off any bag snatchers! I might have to hire a bodyguard if I was going to step out with this opulent accessory on my arm.

This limited edition Veronica bag will be available exclusive at Galeries Lafayette in Paris.

[Source: Bag Snob]

Marc Jacobs Limited Edition Bags on eBay

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Yak Pak Catrina Hobo | Practical Slouchy Rabbit Camouflage Handbag

Posted on: Jul 2

Yak Pak are masters at taking popular handbags styles and stamping them as its own. This Catrina Hobo is no exception; from just one look you know it’s a Yak Pak.

The secret is that print, which is cute and whimsical with just a hint of bad girl edge. I love the unique camouflage interpretation of this bunny print, but it’s not our only option. While these rabbits look almost dangerous as they go into combat, the traditionally scary skulls seem much sweeter in purple, orange, and teal.

The playful prints are paired with practical design. This is a generously sized bag, perfect for college students who need to schlep their books to class. But its array of built in pockets make sure we never feel overwhelmed. I also appreciate the fold-over closure which works with the zip top to make the Catrina doubly safe.

At just $27.99, this Yak Pak hobo is well priced for students and recessionistas alike.

More Features of This Yak Pak Printed Hobo

  • A single shoulder strap
  • Measures 15 x 8.5 inches

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Judith Leiber Slender Curve Fine Crystal-Embellished Clutch | Elegant Sparkling Black Crystal Evening Bag

Posted on: Jul 1

I’ve been through a lot of revolutions in my attitude towards Judith Leiber. Sometimes I think her bags are tongue-in-cheek and super fun, and sometimes I think they’re tacky and overpriced. This sophisticated clutch falls partly in the former category and partly in the latter.

The design of this hard-cased evening bag is sophisticated and timeless. The surface is entirely covered with hand-placed black and silver crystals and the effect is luxurious and opulent. This is definitely a clutch thats elegant appeal makes it perfect for special occasions.

The secret to Leiber’s designs is in the details. The faceted clasp at the top propels its decadence to another level, and the delicate chain strap is embellished with gorgeous clear crystals. The only problem is the price. At $1,995, the price is in line with the rest of Leiber’s bags, but it’s a little too expensive to be reasonable for most of us.

More Features Of This Judith Leiber Slender Curve Crystal-Embellished Clutch

  • 6″ x 3″ x 1″ size
  • 5″ handle drop
  • Fully lined in silver leather

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Marc by Marc Jacobs Lil Missy R Special Shoulder Bag | Fabulous Hipster Chic Electric Blue Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Jul 1

Marc Jacobs’ last few accessories lines have really left me cold. I’ve been a fan of his since the Perry Ellis grunge days, so it’s been a major disappointment. But bags like this Lil Missy make me think that the line is on the upswing.

The soft buttery blue leather of the Lil Missy is really amazing. It’s supple, the color is vibrant, and the smooth texture of the material perfectly accentuates the bag’s subtle pleating. I’m crazy for the angular hobo shape and the origami-esque folded pattern.

The thick shoulder strap is made for carrying, and the length ensures that it will rest against your body comfortably. The interior of the bag is an organizational wonderland, with three patch pockets to keep all your things in place. These utilitarian details combined with the bag’s indubitable hipness make it basically perfect. Despite its rich hue, this is a bag that you could carry almost anywhere with almost every outfit, so long as you don’t mind turning a few heads.

More Features Of The Marc by Marc Jacobs Lil Missy R Special Shoulder Bag

  • 16″ x 9″ x 6″ size
  • 4″ handle drop
  • Fully lined in signature twill

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Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal-Embellished Suede Clutch | Fun And Funky Disco-Inspired Evening Bag

Posted on: Jul 1

Giuseppe Zanotti is known for bringing high fashion to a wider audience. His interpretations of the trends are more affordable, and sometimes more wearable, than his haute couture counterparts. This crystal-embellished suede clutch is a low key, but still fabulous, take on disco styles.

The simple pouch shape is elegant and understated, the perfect canvas for a sparkly, eye-catching design. The combination of soft, nubbly suede and sparkly sequins is texturally interesting, and the electric blue really pops against the black background.

The asymmetrical placement of the geometric design gives the bag an abstract trompe l’oeil look. The black zipper integrates the design by tying together the colors and textures. I’m not totally sure about the practicality of the zipper’s placement, though. It seems a little awkward to be functional. Luckily, this detail is on the front flap, and the interior pouch is totally usable.

At $930, this clutch isn’t exactly affordable for every woman, and I’m not sure that this trend-driven design warrants such a high price tag. Wait for a sale and it might be worth it.

More Features Of The Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal-Embellished Suede Clutch

  • 11″ x 6″ x 2″  size
  • Lined in designer stamped satin
  • Magnetic fastening on flap front
  • Magnetic fastening foldover flap

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Jimmy Choo Ally Medium Tote Bag | Conservative And Practical Brown Leather Everyday Bag

Posted on: Jul 1

Jimmy Choo’s past few seasons of bags have been among my favorite on the market. He’s taken an edgier, more downtown approach to design, and it really suits the line. Unfortunately, this Ally tote is a little regressive in terms of his aesthetic.

There’s nothing particularly wrong with the Ally. It’s just a little boring compared with some of his more bohemian designs. It has a very traditional rectangular shape and size. The pull through straps are the most interesting design element, but on such a conservative bag they just look a little awkward.

The rich brown leather has a luxurious pebbled texture that is versatile and durable. This is the kind of bag that you buy because it will go with anything and last forever, not because it is particularly stylish. I guess they call bags like this “timeless”, but in this case it’s only because the Ally hasn’t integrated trends from any era, not because it’s particularly classic.

Overall, I just find this bag boring. And for $1,995, the last thing I want is boring.

More Features Of The Jimmy Choo Ally Medium Tote Bag

  • 16″ x 10″ x 7″ size
  • 18″ strap drop
  • Fully lined in beige suede
  • Internal pouch and zipper pockets

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Santi Pleated Floral Clutch | Cute Satin Purse Perfect for Weddings

Posted on: Jul 1

With wedding season still in full flow, this Santi floral clutch is a great option for pairing with soft satin fabrics and floaty chiffon dresses.

If you are wanting a cheap and cheerful purse, this probably isn’t it. It costs $148, and whilst that isn’t cheap by any means, I do feel the need to point out that many bags cost far more than this. And for a wedding outfit this could be more than justified! The justification continues when we inspect the soft satin fabric folded over the exterior, and the classic shape.

Whilst the construction is nice, the design is even more so. I love floral fabrics at the best of times, but the combination of bold color printed flowers and the subtler mint green shaded background makes it both at once classy, and fun. The pleating adds another layer to this, although if forced to admit it I am not sure if the bag actually needs it.

This satin purse from Santi is the perfect accompaniment to a warm summer wedding, but I doubt you need any persuading to know that.

More Features of this Santi Folded Clutch

  • Optional drop in chain handle
  • Satin exterior and interior
  • Single interior slip pocket

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Ruth Shiroma Foster Supports Honolulu Symphony with Reclaimed Hawaiian Shirt Handbags

Posted on: Jul 1

In her efforts to support the Honolulu Symphony, handbag designer Ruth Shiroma Foster literally took the shirts from the musicians’ backs. Her eco-friendly Pop Series purses are crafted from Hawaiian shirts once worn by the classical orchestra.

As each purse is crafted from reclaimed shirt fabric, every bag in the Pop Series line is an individual. They are lined with sturdy canvas sourced from upholstery remnants. The bags are simply designed, but there is a pocket inside each one for a cell phone or keys. Rhinestones or buttons complete the look.

Opus numbers printed on the purses reflect the order they were created. They cost $60, and all profits directly benefit the Future Symphony Vision Fund established by the Honolulu Symphony’s musicians.

Mrs Shiroma Foster has a special personal connection to the symphony as she’s married to the group’s clarinet player Norman Foster. The duo writes songs together which they perform around their local area.

These cute summery Pop Series purses are available online through Ruth Shiroma Foster’s website.

[Source: Honolulu Weekly]
[Image Source: Ruth Shiroma Foster]

Hawaiian Handbags on eBay

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