Kate Spade gets all glitzy with this sequined El Morocco clutch.

My first thought when I saw this glamorous handbag was just how different this is from the rest of the handbags Kate Spade designs. She usually opts for classic styling and retro design, with strong influence from the 50s and 60s. This purse, however, is more like a modern evening bag or an 80s sequined creation, instantly setting this clutch in a new arena.

As a bag by itself, I like this. The layered black sequins create that popular mottled reflection, and the actual shape (with a divided interior) is uber-practical. However, as a Kate Spade purse I am somewhat disappointed. Where is that tongue-in-cheek trend following? What has happened to the smooth leather lines? For a designer purse costing $495 you really want a distinctive identifiable look, not a similar design to many other sequined purses on the market.

Whilst the detachable handle and spacious interior try hard to convince me of the Paolo clutch’s merits, I have to admit that this lacks the refinement I so love in the Kate Spade brand.

More Features of this Kate Spade El Morocco Paolo Purse

• Removable chain handle
• Divided compartmentalized interior
• Sophisticated cream lining
• Sequined exterior

Get this Sequined Evening Clutch:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Kate Spade bags on BagBunch
• The KC Malhan Leopard clutch, a great alternative to this sequined bag.
• Searching for more sequined bags on eBay
• Other Kate Spade bags on eBay:

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Have you ever seen a handbag that you love, but not known how to style it? If so, then you could probably use a few styling ideas to set you off on the right foot. These ‘How to Wear‘ posts will aim to do just that: to give you a few fashion ideas to inspire you with the bags you love. Each post will be on a handbag that we have featured on BagBunch, ranging from the weird to the wonderful.

Looking at this season’s trend, we thought it would be fun to create some outfits for the H2W Domino Bowler. This studded duffel bag could be hard to wear in the summer sun, but we believe it is more than possible! Read on for how to look feminine and feisty with the same bag!

Feisty – Nighttime

Nighttime | The H2W Domino Bowler

It is easy to turn a studded leather bag into something nighttime appropriate and full of attitude. However, you probably want to appear sexy and feminine as well, and to achieve this I propose a classic leather-led look. Team studs and black leather all around with shapes that accentuate your womanly curves. High heels extend your legs and make your bottom pert, whilst a structured leather jacket nips you in at the waist. I have thrown some red throughout the look to make you utterly sultry and sexy, creating a vibe that is dark and dangerous yet at the same time quite accessible.

• Jane Norman frilled leather jacket
• Yoana Baraschi Petal blouse
• Helmut Lang leather pants
• Givenchy studded wedges
• Topshop rose ring
• Miss Selfridge heart bubble ring
• Angie Gooderham rose earrings
• Handbag: H2W Domino bowler – (read our review)

Feminine – Daytime

Daytime | The H2W Domino Bowler

Looking feminine and girlie whist wearing studs at the same time is actually a match made in heaven. This season’s obsession with chiffons, silks and layered ruffles gives you a great base to work with. Team a beautiful soft dress with this studded bag, and maybe thrown in some studded accessories for good measure. The important thing to remember is to let the neutral pinks and ruffles dominate, and have the studded pieces as a marked contrast.

• Topshop chiffon RaRa dress
• AX Paris chiffon tunic
• L.A.M.B Vogul wedges
• Leopoldo Giordano Rosa platforms
• Wendy Mink Vermeil bangles
• Studded bib necklace
• Handbag: H2W Domino bowler – (read our review)

You may also be interested in:

• More Clothing & Handbag Fashion Tips
• The Matt & Nat Laroux clutch, a great alternative to this studded bag.
• Searching for more studded bags on eBay
• Other bowler bags on eBay:

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[Image Source: Polyvore]

J. Tiras was clearly inspired by Ms Hepburn when it designed the Audrey clutch. Just like its Hollywood namesake, this is a purse that combines elegant style and trendsetting design.

It’s a hard balance to achieve, but one that J. Tiras makes look easy, as Hepburn herself did. Just like any Hepburn ensemble, J. Tiras pairs clean lines with a quirky detail. The traditional frame clutch is a classic match for the less than traditional bow. This modern reinterpretation is something new, but not so outlandish as to alienate an audience. It pushes the envelope just far enough.

The interior is small, but serviceable. It’s longer than the average, so you might be able to squeeze a few items inside that you usually leave at home. Having said that, don’t push the Audrey beyond its limits. The kiss lock closure will simply pop open if it’s overstuffed.

I have a love/hate relationship with chain straps. They’re par for the course on clutch bags; delicate enough to work with an evening ensemble but never comfortable on bare shoulders. But I’m a little more enthusiastic about this one than usual. Rather than a traditional chain, J. Tiras has used a more intricate design to add a little more style.

Thankfully we’re not paying through the nose for those lovely looks though. The J. Tiras Audrey is available for just $90.

More Features of This J. Tiras Bow Clutch

• An interior slip pocket
• Fully lined interior
• A shoulder length chain strap
• Measures 4.2 x 2.7 x 10.5 inches
• Available in brown and gray

Get this J. Tiras Audrey Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More J. Tiras bags on BagBunch
• The Yves Saint Laurent Grand Sac Y Bow bag, a great alternative to this unusual bow bag.
• Searching for more J. Tiras bags on eBay
• Other bow clutch bags on eBay:

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Los Angeles label Parabellum has launched its premiere collection of men’s accessories. The range uses military-grade ceramics, 15-year-old American bison skin, DuPont Kevlar, and soft lambskin for the “the perfect union between luxury and utilitarianism.”

Parabellum shows great respect for the buffalo, which it sources from reservation style ranches. Here the animals are free to live out their days roaming free in the comfort of the ranches.

The label continues to show the same respect when treating the skins. The bison hides are tanned in small batches using the same methods perfected by America’s first artisans. Natural vegetable-tanned lambskins complement the more rugged beauty of the bison, while laser-edged military-grade ceramic hardware adds style and strength. The Parabellum accessories get added durability with a tough Kevlar lining.

The Parabellum collection includes practical wallets, cases, pouches, and belts. It will be available next month at Maxfield in Los Angeles before being rolled out to other retailers.

[Source: Luxist]
[Image Source: Parabellum]

Bison Bags on eBay

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As you look around the modern world, it’s often hard to remember that it’s 2010. After all, Spandau Ballet, Tears for Fears, and Huey Lewis and the News are touring the world, big shoulder pads are back in vogue, and purses like the Brandi from Helena de Natalio are all the rage!

This purse channels the 80s with its vibrant geometric patchwork flap. This flap really is the star of the show, with its contrasting colors and textures. On a different bag the pairing of suede, embossed snake, and cowhide might look confused but its flamboyance is perfect for this retro look. The 1980s were all about decadence and excess after all!

But Helena de Natalio generally knows when enough is enough. She keeps the shape simple, and the rest of the body unadorned so nothing competes with this colorful patchwork display.

Well, nothing except for the Brandi’s interior. I rarely mind which lining a designer chooses, but this 70s paisley print is all wrong for this bag. My criticism is about more than clashing decades. The colors just don’t work together, and neither do the patterns. A plain black fabric may not have been as exciting, but it would have been a much more soothing choice.

The detachable handle is a more inspired choice. This easily takes the Brandi from a shoulder bag to a clutch. The purse’s dimensions help it function just as well as both; I’d wear it to the mall during the day, then clutch it old-school when hitting the clubs.

I’d hesitate to spend $400 on this purse as I’m not sure how long the 80s revival will last, but if you think you can rock it once the fad has passed then be my guest!

More Features of This Helena de Natalio Patchwork Clutch

• Made of leather
• An interior zip pocket
• Measures 13 x 16 x 7 inches

Get this Helena de Natalio Brandi Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Helena de Natalio bags on BagBunch
• The abstract patchwork neon tote bag, a great alternative to this 80s bag.
• Searching for more Helena de Natalio bags on eBay
• Other retro patchwork bags on eBay:

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Former Microsoft employee Susanne Park has stepped away from the computers to launch her eco-friendly office handbag line Plaid Doctrine.

Plaid Doctrine bags are crafted from an innovative water and stain-resistant fabric made from recycled bottles. This material is then accented with authentic vegetable-tanned leathers. Vegans might turn their noses up at the use of genuine leather rather than a synthetic alternative, but the label reminds us that this vegetable-tanned skin creates less air pollution than manufactured plastic. The fabrics are patterned with traditional prints including plaid, stripes, and houndstooth checks.

Plaid Doctrine attempts to minimize its carbon footprint by sourcing as many domestic materials as possible and manufacturing its handbags entirely in the United States.

Susanne Park is starting small, releasing just four pieces: a briefcase, a laptop tote, an iPad sleeve, and a purse organizer. The Plaid Doctrine bags are available from $79 to $479 through the label’s online store.

[Source: Pursed Lips]
[Image Source: Plaid Doctrine]

Plaid Work Bags on eBay

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Jesselli Couture offers us a classic croc purse for less with this Croc-Embossed clutch.

That’s right, this Jesselli Couture purse isn’t authentic crocodile at all, but a rather convincing imitation. Personally I feel when the embossing is this good, a stamped leather purse is just as eye-catching, although exotic lovers may disagree.

Jesselli Couture allows the textured skin to shine by keeping the design simple. This box shape with its foldover flap is one I’ve seen many times before, but there’s a reason why it’s remained popular. Fads come and go, but this is easily paired with any outfit at any time of year.

Like so many clutches, this is a purse all about looks. The narrow design makes the purse easy to carry and stylish to boot, but it compromises storage space. There’s also no shoulder strap, so it may become tiresome as your evening wears on.

If you can make a few concessions you’ll enjoy this clutch for $120. It’s not exactly cheap, but it’s a fraction of the price you’d pay for a genuine crocodile purse. If you want the look for less, this is a great alternative.

More Features of This Jesselli Couture Exotic Leather Clutch

• Magnetic snap closure
• Fabric lined interior
• Measures 6 x 12 x 1 inches
• Made in China

Get this Jesselli Couture Croc-Embossed Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Jesselli Couture croc clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Jesselli Couture bags on BagBunch
• The Jesselli Couture croc-embossed envelope clutch bag, a great alternative to this flap bag.
• Searching for more Jesselli Couture bags on eBay

Tory Burch is a designer that I had almost completely written off until recently. Honestly, most of her designs looked the same to me, but lately she’s been putting an urban spin on her traditionalism, and I absolutely love it. This Linden shoulder bag is exactly in that vein.

The classic satchel style looks fabulous in this soft but rich tan leather, and the flap over front is not only attractive, but also functional. Having that flap front adds an extra layer of security to your belongings.

The studs on the front flap are really what make this bag unique. Without them, the Linden would be almost boring, but they give the bag a hip edgy look that contrasts with the overall traditional style.  Well, let me rephrase that. The studs do contrast, stylistically, but colorwise, the bronze metal is really cohesive with the soft brown leather.

The medium size of this bag makes it perfect as a take everywhere accessory, and the thick shoulder straps mean you can fill it to capacity without worrying about comfort. This bag strikes a beautiful balance between fashion and function, and for $395, it’s sure to find fans in and out of the usual Tory Burch loving circles.

More Features Of The Tory Burch Linden Studded Leather Bag:

• 11″ x 8″ x 2″  size
• Beige canvas lining
• Interior pouch and zipper pockets

Get this Tory Burch Linden Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Tory Burch bags on BagBunch
• The Tory Burch studded leather bag, an edgier alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Tory Burch bags  on eBay
• Other brown leather studded bags on eBay:
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Tusk dresses up the traditional hobo bag with this elegant Orissa purse.

The soft leather slouches as any hobo might, but the tiny vertical seams ensure it doesn’t look too slovenly. The structured body is matched by a shape which is more bucket than crescent. It all helps to create an image which is classic and elegant, one which would suit a silk blouse and pencil skirt rather than flowing sundress and ankle boots.

The colors are conservative, but their slight pearlized sheen saves them from being boring. The finish is glamorous without being gaudy, the perfect match for the metallic handle trim and polished hardware.

Tusk doesn’t skimp on space or functional features inside. The enormous space is lined with practical canvas in a complementary shade to match its exterior. Leather trimmed pockets and a magnetic clasp complete the usable interior.

With its blend of timeless style and substance, the Orissa represents great value at $228.

More Features of This Tusk Leather Hobo

• A single shoulder strap with a 9 inch drop
• Measures 12 x 16 x 4 inches
• Made in China
• Available in black, pear, and ivory

Get this Tusk Orissa Handbag:

• Available to buy at Endless (limited stock)
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Tusk bags on BagBunch
• The Tusk Orissa shopper bag, a great alternative to this hobo bag.
• Searching for more Tusk bags on eBay
• Other leather hobo bags on eBay:

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Marc Jacobs accessories have been such a disappointment to me lately that I hesitate to review another one for fear of repeating myself. But while I don’t have entirely negative things to say about this tasseled clutch, I do have mixed feelings about it.

There’s something really quirky and appealing about preppy eyelet-punched leather being covered with tassels. The simple rectangular shape lends itself well to these details, and the soft sides make the tassels stand out further, which further enhances the style of the bag.

The problem is that, while I think the style is pretty cute, I’m not sure it’s entirely successful. There’s just a few too many tassels, I think, and that overload in combination with the eyelet is a little distracting. Plus, on a practical level, I’m not sure it would be entirely comfortable to hold this bag with all those little bits of leather pressing into your palm.

Overall, I think this bag has a sweet fresh vibe that lends itself well to summer styles. But for $995, I want a little more than this small overdecorated clutch.

More Features Of The Marc Jacobs Tasseled Leather Clutch:

• 9″ x 6″ x 4″ size
• Peach satin lining
• Three interior pockets
• Interior pouch pocket

Get this Marc Jacobs Tasseled Leather Clutch:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Marc Jacobs bags on BagBunch
• The Marc by Marc Jacobs Moto Proto Hobo Bag, an edgy alternative to this bag.
• Searching for more Marc Jacobs handbags on eBay
• Other white leather clutches on eBay:
  [phpbay]white leather clutch, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]Marc