XOXO Perfectionist Hobo Bag | Classic Colored Studded Synthetic Handbag

Posted on: Jul 1

This classic styled hobo from XOXO is ironically called the Perfectionist. It’s a funny title, as looking at it I get the feeling XOXO wasn’t trying very hard here.

All of the right elements are there. The clean crescent shape is traditional, even if its silhouette isn’t as slouchy as we’d expect. The matte colors are a welcome change of pace from XOXO’s traditional colored signature prints. Those patterns can make XOXO purses appear too juvenile for sophisticated tastes, so opting for a cleaner design seems like a good idea.

But it just doesn’t seem to work. While the use of colored panels overlaid against white synthetic could have looked modern, its execution seems a little awkward. Pyramid studs are right on trend, but the hardware appears tacked on here. It’s almost like a desperate attempt to appear fashion forward rather than a fully integrated design element.

This purse is quite practical though, with a spacious interior and secure zippered pocket. White sateen may not have been the smartest choice for a lining, as it’ll show ink stains and other marks before too long. But at least when the inevitable stains appear, we can zip up the top and forget about them.

This is a different look from XOXO, and one I’m not entirely sure works. But I have to admire the brand’s bravery, and its commitment to low prices. The Perfectionist retails for just $52.

More Features of This XOXO Studded Hobo

  • A 16 inch shoulder strap
  • Measures 12.25 x 9.75 x 3.75 inches

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Whiting & Davis Pop Art Small Hobo | Colorful Patterned Silver Mesh Purse

Posted on: Jul 1

It was once a label keen to revive classic mesh purses, but these days Whiting & Davis is more likely to push the fashion envelope. Handbags like this small Pop Art hobo are a great example of the easy marriage of vintage mesh and bold design.

This is one of those hobos that probably shouldn’t be called a hobo; there’s no slouch to speak of, and the crescent shape we expect is instead a gently curved bucket. But there is a bohemian feel to the colorful pop art print, which channels the free love era with its paisley inspired design.

What you see is really what you get here. This is a small purse which is definitely all about its looks. The interior is simple, although it is lined in satin. You’ll need to redefine your idea of essentials, as this purse hasn’t the room to hold much at all.

Personally if I’m going to spend $120 on a purse I want it to work for me more than this will, but if you love its bold look this Whiting & Davis hobo will be a fun addition to your wardrobe.

More Features of This Whiting & Davis Mesh Hobo

  • A silver mesh link shoulder strap with a 12 inch drop
  • Top zip closure
  • Measures 1 x 6 x 6 inches

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Prada Launches American Online Store for Handbags and Eyewear

Posted on: Jul 1

Prada will open its virtual doors to American customers with the launch of its US online store today.

The interactive website has a clean, user-friendly design which is sure to appeal to online shopping novices and seasoned e-customers. Sadly for now we can’t buy Prada’s apparel, but the eye wear and leather handbags and purses we love are all available at the click of a mouse.

Personally I don’t see that as a bad thing entirely. I never really feel comfortable buying clothes unless I can see them on me, but thankfully specs and handbags always fit! I also like the e-gift function which allows generous types to send Prada goodies along with a personalized card along to lucky friends and family members.

Prada seems to be reveling in new technology of late with the launch of online charity auctions and web-exclusive fashion prototypes. It’s also already making plans to expand its online empire. A Japanese Prada e-store is next on the agenda for the luxury label’s fans in the East.

[Source: Fashionista]

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Rebecca Minkoff Plans Men’s Accessories Collection for Spring 2011

Posted on: Jul 1

Rebecca Minkoff isn’t content with her modern accessories adorning the arms of the world’s most stylish women. The New York based designer will soon make a play for the men with the release of her new masculine collection, Ben Minkoff.

The line, named after her World War II veteran grandfather, will feature luxury man bags and other blokey accessories. The designs promise to deliver contemporary takes on classic bags used by the air force in the 40s. I’m looking forward to seeing more of Minkoff’s designs which put her stamp on the map, mail, and motorcycle bags of old. The Ben Minkoff collection will also feature wallets and belts, and iPad and Kindle cases for all those tech-savvy gents out there.

The Ben Minkoff collection items will be priced from $30 to $575, so there’s sure to be something to suit all lads and their bank balances. It will start to infiltrate stores in spring 2011.

[Source: Style Bistro]

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Vitalio Vera Savitha Hobo | Oversized Soft Synthetic Slouchy Handbag with Tassel Drawstring

Posted on: Jul 1

If you can’t afford the latest “it” bag or trendy designer accessory, a purse from Vitalio Vera is always a great alternative. The brand uses high quality synthetic materials to mimic the designer looks for less. This boho styled Savitha hobo is another great example of the label’s commitment to affordable fashion.

The Savitha is representative of the new breed of hobos, a bag which features all of the trademarks of bohemian style in a much classier package than we’d expect. While true boho bags are relaxed affairs with their slouchy skin and drawstring tassels, this one in deep blue wouldn’t look out of place when the sun sets. That color works well with the surprisingly soft synthetic to create a look that’s quite sophisticated.

You’d expect that the brand would cut corners to keep the price down, but I can’t see any evidence of that. We all know the material isn’t as luxurious as leather, but the attention to detail is great compensation. Such a large bag takes some effort to keep organized, but Vitalio Vera does its best to help us out. A large zippered pocket divides the interior into three user-friendly compartments. The walls are lined with zip and slip pockets, and there’s another zippered pocket on the back.

It’s rare to find a bag that looks this good for less than $50, but to find one that has substance as well as style is even more special. If you’re on a budget, the Savitha represents great value.

More Features of This Vitalio Vera Simulated Lambskin Hobo

  • Cotton/nylon blend fabric lining
  • Top zip closure
  • Brass toned hardware
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 7 inch drop
  • Measures 14.5 x 16 x 5.5 inches

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See by Chloe Cherry Large Slouchy Leather Bag | Hip And Hot Red Leather Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Jun 30

I am really enamored with the aesthetic of Chloe’s new line of Cherry bags. I thought the mini version of this one was cool, but all the fun details really come through on this larger size.

The eye-catching red leather is buttery soft and just subdued enough to be totally versatile. One of the best things about a red leather bag is that whatever stylistic direction you take it in, it still looks totally singular. The Cherry would be the prefect compliment to a preppy nautical style or you could take it in a totally downtown rocker direction with no problem.

The shape of the bag has a 70s look that is really appealing. It’s almost like a compressed hobo with a flap top or a slouchy saddlebag. Either way, it’s perfect. The drawstring top emphasizes the softness of the shape, and the hand-tied knots on the strap are a sweet touch.

The front zippers might look edgy on another bag, but here they just look quirky and cute. Perhaps because they are balanced out, design-wise, by the side tassel. The overall effect of this adorable, but not so adorable that you couldn’t glam it up. At $655, the Cherry is a bit pricey, but for dedicated fashionistas, it will seem like a great buy.

More Features Of The See by Chloé Cherry Large Slouchy Leather Bag

  • 16″ x 10″ x 4″ size
  • 11″ strap drop
  • Fully lined in cotton

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Miu Miu Leather Hobo Bag | Gorgeous Taupe Leather Hobo With Boho Rocker Fringe

Posted on: Jun 30

As a child of the 80s, there’s nothing I like more than fringe, except maybe suede fringe. It’s been everywhere this season, from jacket sleeves to hair clips. But handbags is exactly where fringe was meant to be, where it will pack a stylish punch, but not get in the way.

Miu Miu has done a masterful job of creating a 70s/80s retro handbag that still speaks in a modern voice. The shape is totally vintage, as is the ubiquitous fringe, but the taupe color is very this season. Pale, rich nudes are everywhere, and they look especially good combined with boho rocker styles like this one.

I am really digging the classic hobo shape, and the way it’s been combined with the cool flap top. Plus the giant central clasp is basically a work of art on its own, and adds a bit of architectural elegance to this edgy bag.

The fringe, of course, is what takes this bag to the next level. All you need is some tight jeans and a Led Zeppelin tee and you’re good to go. I’m not entirely sure about the drawstring top under the flap, as it seems unnecessary, but it isn’t irksome enough to really detract from the bag. My only real complaint is the $1,695 price tag, which is way above reachable for us everyday rocker chicks.

More Features Of The Miu Miu Leather Hobo Bag

  • 17″ x 15″ x 3″ size
  • 3″ handle drop
  • Internal zipper pocket
  • Fully lined

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Valentino Shining Roses Tote | Large Black Taffeta And Leather Tote With Rosette Embellishment

Posted on: Jun 30

Valentino’s eponymous line was taken over by designers from his accessories team when he retired. Which might lead you to believe that the accessories line would be the strongest in the house, but you would only be kind of right. In reality, the accessories line has been extremely touch-and-go, producing iconic bags like the Nuage, but also a lot of crap.

The Shining Roses tote sort of falls in the mid-range between the two extremes. It’s certainly not ugly, but it isn’t exactly an It bag, either. The rosette theme that we’ve seen on the Valentino bags in the past year or so is repeated here in a somewhat less interesting way than it has been in the past. I don’t really mind the taffeta rosettes, but they’re sort of kitschy and not particularly elegant.

The shape of the bag is simple enough to be embellished heavily, but the rosettes just aren’t really doing it well. The luxurious effect that I think is supposed to be achieved by combining taffeta and leather just isn’t. It looks more like a parade float than anything else. I love a parade as much as the next girl, but not on a $2,400 handbag.

Besides the taffeta, the bag is a hit practicality-wise. The leather base is sturdy and durable and the size will allow for a whole lot of errand running. But at the end of the day, you don’t really need a bag this expensive to run errands in, do you? Save yourself some cash and recycle a grocery bag.

More Features Of The Valentino Shining Roses Tote

  • 21″ x 13″ x 6″  size
  • 7″ strap drop
  • Fully lined
  • Internal zipper pocket

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Alexander McQueen Faithful De-Manta Leather Tote | Gorgeous Minimal Nude Leather Carryall

Posted on: Jun 30

Nude is the new white. In the past few seasons no other color has been as dominant, except, of course, black. But this shade of neutral is coming to us, not in the conservative styles that we might expect, but in cutting edge classics like this gorgeous Faithful De-Manta tote by Alexander McQueen.

I love the sleek, minimal styling of this tote. Its pared down elegance combines with the pale, fleshy color combine to produce a subtle, but extremely sophisticated everyday handbag. The unusual fold-down effect of the upper corners is created by magnetic discs, but they won’t get in the way if you need to fill the De-Manta to the tippy top.

All of the details on this bag are quiet and clean. The quilted corners add a small textural contrast that has a bit of a biker appeal, and the shiny gold top zipper gives the bag a little extra edginess. But while the De-Manta could go out on the town with all your best rock-n-roll wear, it’s also suitable for daytime.

At $1,665, most of us won’t be able to afford this beauty anytime soon, but the style is sure to send shockwaves around the fashion kingdom.

More Features Of The Alexander McQueen Faithful De-Manta Leather Tote

  • 19″ x 16″ x 6″ size
  • 6″ strap drop
  • Fully lined
  • Leather feet on base

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Jalda Crinkled Lamb Bucket Bag | Wrinkled Chocolate Folded Tote

Posted on: Jun 30

Are bucket bags the favorite trend from summer?

I have noticed that more and more of these convenient slouchy tote bags are coming on to the market, and as a person who loves nothing more than style and comfort it is like a dream come true. Here we have something that gives us the glorious texture and fashion kudos of a glossy creased handbag, whilst at the same time letting us store pretty much as much as we want to inside.

Jalda has made this different from the rest thanks to the sumptuously supple lamb leather fabric it has chosen for the deep and chocolatey exterior. Thanks to this incredibly luxurious fabric (which may go some way to explaining the $325 price tag …) there is no need for extra decoration, although those who like proof of a bag’s worth may find it almost too simple.

This wrinkled bucket bag with its stunning blue interior is a casual way to work designer fashion.

More Features of this Jalda Crinkled Bucket Bag

  • Textured lambskin exterior
  • Single slouchy handle
  • Contrasting blue striped interior
  • Single interior zip pocket

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