Kenneth Cole is adding a high-end line to his fashion empire. The luxurious but not so originally titled Kenneth Cole Collection is designed with modern cosmopolitan women in mind.

“In theory, it’s more urban, the woman is on-trend, but is not trendy,” explained Cole of his target market. “She’s very confident in who she is. She’s comfortable in the city, but also outside the city.“

The range seems very comprehensive with leather biker style jackets, tailored woollen coats, and tweed miniskirts complemented by pony hair handbags, chunky metal necklaces, and chic ankle boots.

As expected the new line is more expensive than the Kenneth Cole New York collection, but with dresses costing upwards of $400 and outerwear starting at $900 I don’t think the pieces are unreasonable. The focus on timeless designs rather than trend-conscious looks will no doubt tempt fashion lovers to splurge. Consider them as investments in your fashion future and it’ll be a bit easier to hand over that credit card!

Kenneth Cole hasn’t announced a launch date for his Kenneth Cole Collection, but with Karlie Kloss already spotted in the commercials it’s probably not too far away.

Are you excited to see Kenneth Cole offering a high class alternative to his Kenneth Cole New York range?

[Source: FabSugar]

Kenneth Cole Handbags on eBay

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Joy Gryson takes bohemian style a step too far with this Columbier bag from her Olivia Harris line.

Hobos generally have a relaxed hippie charm about them, but most manage to pull off the look with more style than this. The earthiness of the woven panel sounded good in theory, but the straw doesn’t gel with the leather we see on the rest of the bag. I might not have minded the contrasting sections if they were the Columbier’s only accents, but with the lacing and oversized tassels vying for attention the design seems really overdone.

It’s a shame its exterior seems so tacky, because the Columbier is actually a smart handbag. Its main compartment is spacious and well appointed with a hardy lining and trio of interior pockets. The flat base helps the bag sit up straight once its set down, and with metal feet its leather finish shouldn’t scuff.

Its materials make the Columbier’s $475 price tag seem about right, but sadly its looks let it down.

More Features of This Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson Woven Hobo

• Top zip closure
• A whipstitched leather shoulder strap with a 9 inch drop
• Measures 15 x 5.5 x 12.5 inches

Get this Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson Columbier Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Joy Gryson bags on BagBunch
• The Olivier Harris by Joy Gryson Columbier Simple Tote bag, a great alternative to this woven bag.
• Searching for more Joy Gryson bags on eBay
• Other woven straw hobo bags on eBay:

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Mila Kunis might have fronted Christian Dior’s last advertising campaign, but that doesn’t mean the fashion house has forgotten all about its long serving Lady Dior, Marion Cotillard. The French actress is back as the face of Lady Dior handbags in Christian Dior’s latest commercials.

Peter Lindbergh captured Cotillard at the Communist Party headquarters in her Paris hometown. It seems like an unlikely spot for a fashion photo shoot, but the Oscar Niemeyer designed building is a surprising hot spot for the stylish elite. Prada held one of their famous parties there recently, and it’s also hosted Thom Browne and Dries Van Noten’s catwalk shows.

I liked Mila Kunis’ turn for Christian Dior a few months ago, but in this commercial Cotillard shows why she’s been the face of Lady Dior since 2009. The images are effortlessly sensual. Cotillard looks luminous as always, but her presence never distracts us too much from that luxurious crocodile and raffia purse she’s carrying. Who do you think makes a better Christian Dior model?

Marion Cotillard’s latest Lady Dior commercials will hit the hottest fashion magazines around the globe this May. I’m sure they’ll tempt plenty of fashionistas to make a new season purchase!

[Source: Stylelist]

Christian Dior Lady Dior Bags on eBay

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Brynn Capella takes inspiration from an unlikely source with her Cher wristlet.

The wristlet was named after the designer’s cat because just like her precious feline it’s cute, small, and always a faithful companion. Some girls will want their go-to bag to be larger, but the Cher punches well above its weight.

I love the Cher’s soft material finish. The geometric textured pattern makes the black fabric more interesting, without undermining its sophistication. It’s one of those special cloths that look so much richer than it really is. This enviable material is complemented by a leather wrist loop, which you can remove if you prefer to carry the Cher like a clutch.

The interior is petite but well organized with two small pockets for holding your essential cards. While the space probably won’t hold everything you usually step out with, it’s large enough for a slim cell phone and house keys. The zip running across the top helps keep the items you are carrying safe.

Its small stature and affordable material has helped Brynn Capella keep the Cher’s price down to a reasonable $63.

More Features of This Brynn Capella Bengaline Wristlet

• Colorful bengaline lining
• Measures 0.2 x 4.5 x 8.8 inches

Get this Brynn Capella Cher Handbag:

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

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Brynn Capella bags on BagBunch
• The leather Brynn Capella Cher wristlet bag, a great alternative to this fabric bag.
• Searching for more Brynn Capella bags on eBay

See by Chloe’s created one of the cutest wallets I’ve seen in some time with its Bryoni.

The gorgeous watermelon colored leather is just darling. It’s reminiscent of the coral we all loved last year, but just a bit sweeter for this spring. The hue is the perfect foil for the flowery leather accents which surround the engraved nameplate.

I can’t say I’m quite as enamored with the Bryoni’s interior, but it does the trick. Six card holders is barely enough to hold the cards I consider my essentials, let alone all the extras I need for a shopping spree. I suppose some of those plastic pieces could sit in the currency pocket, although that space could fill quickly with receipts and paper money. At least there’s a zippered pocket to keep coins separate.

At $240 the Bryoni costs more than I’d want to spend on a wallet, particularly one which doesn’t quite meet my financial needs. However if you’re less discerning I’m sure its sweet styling might win you over.

More Features of This See by Chloe Leather Wallet

• Zip around closure
• Measures 7.5 x 1 x 4.25 inches

Get this See by Chloe Bryoni Handbag:

• Available to buy at Zappos Couture
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chloe bags on BagBunch
• The See by Chloe Marti wallet, a great alternative to this wallet.
• Searching for more Chloe bags on eBay
• Other See by Chloe wallets on eBay:

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Soft glazed leather helps this Paulette handbag from Hobo International turn heads.

I’ve seen the Paulette in various skins, including glossy patents and exotic impersonators, but this buttery leather is the pick of them. We’ve seen it in Hobo International’s other Vintage purses, but it’s used to great effect here. The softness of the material makes the hobo’s distinctive slouchy profile seem even more luxurious.

The Paulette takes its cues from traditional hobos, but its squat design makes it a bit more unusual. It should also make it a bit sturdier. The flattened base should stand up much easier than the usual crescent shape. The oversized zipper pulls add the right amount of bohemian style to the design.

The Paulette’s compact style makes this hobo more versatile than many bags of its ilk. A slender purse like this always looks sophisticated if paired with the right outfit. I wouldn’t take it on the red carpet, but it should suit dinner dates and even client meetings if you choose the right color.

I’m partial to this blue hue called Celeste, but I’m not sure it’s the most practical pick of the bunch. Black and mocha brown are more versatile choices, but they’re not quite as interesting as the blue, or the other shades including caramel and pearly stone. Which one’s your favorite?

More Features of This Hobo International Leather Hobo

• Zip top closure
• Printed plainweave lining
• A single handle with a 6 inch drop
• Measures 3.5 x 18.5 x 9 inches

Get this Hobo International Paulette Handbag:

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

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• Check the BayStateOutfitters eBay store to see if this Hobo International bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Hobo International bags on BagBunch
• The patent Hobo International Paulette bag, a great alternative to this vintage leather bag.
• Searching for more Hobo International bags on eBay

Alexander Wang has spoken out against allegations of sweatshop-like conditions in his New York City production house.

The court case, spearheaded by former employee Wenyu Lu, claims workers toiled for long hours in subpar conditions. It also alleges employment was terminated when workers requested compensation. However Wang says the claims are “completely untrue.”

“In reality, this case was filed by an individual who was let go by the company as a result of serious harassment issues,” he clarified. “We stand by our decision to promote a safe workplace environment for all employees regardless of false claims that may be waged against us in retaliation.“

However that account still doesn’t explain why 30 other Wang employees were named in the initial lawsuit, and why another former employee added her name to the list after it was filed.

Last week the case was transferred to New York Federal Court. This change has encouraged plaintiffs to ask the presiding judge to consider it a class-action suit. While Wang’s had words to say, he has less than three week to make an official statement regarding the lawsuit.

And so the saga continues. These are some strong allegations, and whether they’re proven or disproven the bad publicity is likely to tarnish Alexander Wang’s name. How do you expect this case to pan out?

[Source: Huffington Post]
[Image Source: Ed Kavishe/Wikipedia Commons]

Alexander Wang Bags on eBay

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Tod’s owner Dorina Della Valle passed away yesterday at the age of 87.

Della Valle was the grandson of Tod’s founder Filippo Della Valle. When his grandfather passed away he gave Della Valle and his brother Andrea the accessories giant and its other notable interests including Hogan, Fay, Roger Vivier, the RCS Media Group, and ACF Fiorentina. The soccer team has suspended its training regime and will observe two days of silence to pay its respects until Della Valle is laid to rest on Thursday March 29.

Della Valle died peacefully in the small Italian town of Cassette d’Ete, where he’d lived for much of his life. Tod’s was founded in the basement of his family home in the 1920s, and its head office still resides there.

Tod’s has not issued a statement regarding the death, but no doubt its feeling the loss at a tumultuous time. After all, its creative director Derek Lam stepped down earlier in the month and its yet to announce a replacement. Current Tod’s chairman Diego Della Valle, Dorina Della Valle’s son, clearly has a lot to think about as the company moves forward. We wish him and the rest of the Della Valle family all the best in this difficult time.

[Source: Marquis of Fashion]
[Image Source: Rob Bouwman/Stock.xchng]

Tod’s Handbags on eBay

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Longchamp tweaks its famous Le Pliage tote for jetsetters with this expandable model.

This tote has the distinctive looks of the Le Pliage with some handy features. Most expandable bags simply get bigger by releasing a few zips. They remain essentially the same bags, just a bit bigger. However the central portion of this Le Pliage unzips completely, so you can put it back together as a brand new, smaller purse. You’ll want its full strength while you’re in transit, but its smaller mode is ideal for sightseeing and regular days back at home.

This Le Pliage’s functional features don’t stop there. It’s not just a great travel bag; it’s a decent everyday option. Its tubular handles will be too short for easy carrying if the generous main compartment is full, but there’s a grosgrain cross-body strap to help us out. I only wish Longchamp had added more pockets to the roomy interior. The single pouch has a lot of work to do.

I can overlook at that for the price though. I’d hardly call a nylon bag costing $235 a bargain, but the designer pedigree and convertible design of this one makes it worth the money.

More Features of This Longchamp Travel Tote

• Contrast leather accents
• Silver-toned hardware
• Dual top handles with a 4 inch drop
• Zip top with leather flap at center and logo snap-button closure
• Measures 21 x 24 x 9 inches at maximum size

Get this Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Handbag:

• Available to buy at Neiman Marcus
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Longchamp bags on BagBunch
• The Longchamp Le Pliage Folding bag, a great alternative to this expandable bag.
• Searching for more Longchamp bags on eBay
• Other Longchamp Le Pliage bags on eBay:

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Balenciaga embraces its feminine side with this Floral Papier Leather Tote.

It’s very unusual to see Balenciaga releasing a bag so girly. Ordinarily the label celebrates biker chic with dark leathers and chunky hardware. Its favorite leather is still there, but with all those pink roses covering it’s barely recognizable! There’s a little hardware too, but it’s pared back to create a delicate, feminine finish.

The Floral Papier Leather Tote is roomy, but it’s lacking the functional features such a large space really needs. There’s only one interior pocket and another on the outside. It’s a start, but not enough to keep such a large space organized. And without a closure on the top, the pockets are the only secure places for our precious cargo. The base isn’t flat either, so items are likely to spill once it’s set down. The straps are also disappointing. While they’re long enough for easy carrying, such skinny handles will dig into our skin when the tote is full.

Frankly I think we deserve better for our $1725. That’s a lot to spend on a bag whose beauty is only skin deep.

More Features of This Balenciaga Rose Tote

• Aged brass hardware
• Removable handing leather-frame hand mirror
• Measures 12.5 x 15.5 x 6 inches
• Made in Italy

Get this Balenciaga Floral Papier Leather Handbag:

• Available to buy at Neiman Marcus
• Check the Joi Moi Foi eBay store to see if this Balenciaga bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Balenciaga bags on BagBunch
• The Balenciaga Papier A5 Tote bag, a great alternative to this tote bag.
• Searching for more Balenciaga bags on eBay
• Other Balenciaga Papier Leather bags on eBay:

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