This studded Miu Miu tote shows that when done well, it is indeed possible to combine practicality with edgy good looks.

Brown leather may not be as popular as black is at the moment, but it never truly goes out of fashion. Instead, you can work the rock chick look without conforming to all the stereotypes. Go gold and brown rather than black and silver, and break down the barriers!

The studded pattern on the exterior is the main feature of what is actually a simple square tote, perfect for work and play. That elegant hardware exterior leads to a basic black lining and functional pocket. The shape and design is typical, but the metallic looks do give it that little something extra.

On top of the looks, I do admire the fact that you get an optional detachable shoulder-strap as well as the simple dual handles, making this handbag all the more useful. Add to that the reasonably exotic deer leather, and you can understand that this is a luxury handbag. Of course, whether that means it is worth an astronomical $1815 is up to you!

More Features of this Luxury Deer Leather Purse

• Only available in brown
• Alternating stud and grommet exterior
• Deer leather exterior
• Single interior pocket
• Optional shoulder-strap

Get this Studded Miu Miu Tote:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Miu Miu bags on BagBunch
• The Rafe Joss tote, a great alternative to this studded bag.
• Searching for more studded bags on eBay
• Other Miu Miu bags on eBay:

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If you’re a fan of Betsey Johnson’s style when it’s at its flashiest, you probably love her Betseyville sister line to the main label. This line of designs is typically even bolder than regular Betsey Johnson bags to suit even the most retro-loving dramatic taste.

The Starring Betsey collection from Betseyville is a prime example of the brand’s signature glitzy look. With its glittery synthetic material to its metallic trim, this group of bags is all about catching your eye.

The glam doesn’t stop with that, though. This collection’s common theme throughout the bag options, including this three-piece cosmetic set, is the logo and star embossing on the material. It’s probably the most subtle aspect of it, but an interesting addition nonetheless.

As you might guess from the name, this cosmetic set comes with a few different components including a small zippered pouch, mirror charm, and the double-handled case shown above. The case itself isn’t very large, but it’s plenty big for toting around cosmetics and a few toiletry items when traveling. This practical but fun set retails for $48.

More Features of the Starring Betsey Cosmetic Set

• Largest bag measures 10 x 7.25 x 5 inches
• Double handles with 4 inch drop
• Zip closure
• Additional zippered pouch and mirror charm
• Logo and star embossing

Get this Betseyville Starring Betsey Set:

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

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• Check the Shop Savoy Truffle store on eBay to see if this bag is still in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Betsey Johnson bags on BagBunch
• The Harajuku Lovers Cupcake Cosmetic Bag, a great alternative to this cute cosmetic case.
• Searching for more Starring Betsey bags on eBay

Laurel and Sunset helps you enjoy the studded handbag trend for less with the Samira tote. While high-end designers can often charge more than a thousand dollars for a luxury studded purse, this one costs less than $40.

The secret is using synthetic imitation lambskin rather than the real deal. It doesn’t feel as soft, and it probably won’t last as long, but if you’re on a budget you won’t mind the sacrifices too much. At least it looks good in either metallic bronze or this regal purple shade.

The faux lambskin is offset by those modern brass studs. What I like most here is the restraint shown. While studs are in demand right now, who knows what the next season holds? By using the metal as an accent rather than the feature, the look is a lot more timeless.

The interior is better appointed than you might expect for the money. The lining, made of a cotton nylon blend, will probably hold up for a few seasons. There’s a large zippered pocket in one wall and a couple of open pouches in the other. Your belongings will stay safe inside thanks to the zip closure.

Finding a quality bag under $50 is rare. Spotting one that look as good as the Samira is rarer still. It might fail after a few seasons, but at least it’ll serve you well while it stays in one piece.

More Features of This Laurel and Sunset Studded Tote

• Dual shoulder straps with a 7 inch drop
• Measures 13.5 x 17 x 4 inches

Get this Laurel and Sunset Samira Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Laurel and Sunset bags on BagBunch
• The B. Makowsky Taipei hobo bag, a great alternative to this studded bag.
• Searching for more Laurel and Sunset bags on eBay
• Other studded tote bags on eBay:

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The first peek at Mulberry’s upcoming spring/summer 2010 advertising campaign is out, and I spy the new Alexa bag.

This upcoming addition to Mulberry’s classic collection of handbags, which is named after quirky model-turned-television-personality and famous Brit style icon Alexa Chung, is on full display in this preview of the campaign. Models Sasha Pivovarova and Viktoriya Sasonkina sport short, wind-blown hairstyles and the two sizes of the Alexa bag, regular and oversized, amidst what appears to be a whimsical carousel.   

Although Sasha and Viktoriya are shown here carrying classic brown versions of the briefcase-style satchel, don’t expect that to be the only color option for this bag. You’ll also be able to get one of these new styles in bright yellow, cobalt blue, and brown or pink leopard print. Just check out Mulberry’s website to see the different versions and styles.

The Alexa might not yet be available to buy at the fashion label’s online shop, but you can expect it to hit the web fairly soon and can even sign up on the Mulberry website to be notified when it does.

[Source: Stylecaster]

Mulberry Handbags on eBay

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The B. Makowsky Classics line is somewhat of a departure from the label’s often urban contemporary look, but I’m a fan of the totally traditional and versatile look that it offers with bags like the Classics Rockefeller.

Similar to the Astor Hobo from the same collection, the Rockefeller is all about sophistication and elegance. It’s not edgy or particularly modern, which might keep some women from choosing it, but the Rockefeller has the sort of style that goes with almost anything and won’t quickly go out of fashion.

Thankfully, however, you don’t have to share the same name as this leather satchel to afford it. Although the Rockefeller shares the same soft, textured leather as other B. Makowsky handbags, it retails for a relatively reasonable $278. That might be a steep price for some budgets, but it seems like a great deal when you consider the quality of materials and enduring stylishness of the purse.

For the most classic look, I’d opt for either this cognac brown or the black leather versions. The stone white is a little more unexpected, though, and a great choice for any season.

More Features of the Rockefeller Large Satchel

• Measures 16 x 12.75 x 6 inches
• Rolled handles with 7.25 inch drop
• Exterior slip pockets on the back
• Zippered flap entry

Get this B. Makowsky Classics Rockefeller Bag:

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

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• Check the eBags store on eBay to see if the stone version of this bag is still available
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More B. Makowsky bags on BagBunch
• The Latico Vyntage Buckle Tote Bag, a great alternative to this classic satchel.
• Searching for more B. Makowsky handbags on eBay

Wow, do I love this bag or what? I love the bright, in-your-face color. I love the clean unadulterated patent leather surface. I love the contrasting textured ribbon. It only happens occasionally, but this Kate Spade tote has sent me head over heels.

OK, so a single block color may not be to everyone’s tastes. Many people prefer exterior pockets on their totes, and I can understand the preference for leather rather than chain and leather straps. But all this aside, this vibrant gem jumps way outside the conservative box, and takes all seriousness with it.

The outside speaks for itself, whilst the inside of this Kate Spade leaves a little more to the imagination. The gently sixties signature lining is in a much more restrained cream, and whilst I would worry about ink spillages I still find this a refreshing change. If nothing else, it stops this handbag going over the top in terms of color.

A functional and beautiful handbag, I am surprised that the Lilia tote doesn’t have anything other than a single interior pocket. That said, this is useful, gorgeous, and a purse I would love to own!

More Features of the Watch Hill Lilia Bag

• Available in cream, navy stripes and tangerine
• Cream/ivory signature lining
• Patent leather exterior
• Chain and leather dual handles

Get this Kate Spade Patent Tote:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Kate Spade bags on BagBunch
• The Kate Spade Quilted Lilia, a great alternative to this smooth patent bag.
• Searching for more orange bags on eBay
• Other Kate Spade bags on eBay:

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Louis Vuitton’s store in South Coast Plaza, California just became a lot more luxurious. The boutique now has a brand new area made exclusively for VIPs.

The 950-square-foot space, located above the Nordstrom wing, is only accessible via a wood-paneled instore elevator. Those lucky enough to receive an invite can lounge about on a Madame Recamier-style sofa, watch the flat-screen TV, and of course, shop for Louis Vuitton goodies. Some of Louis Vuitton’s most famous fans through history – Lauren Bacall, Katherine Hepburn, Catherine Deneuve, and Gregory Peck – are featured in black and white photographs on the walls. There’s a fitting room, a butler’s pantry, a restroom, and catering by local French bistro March Moderne.

While other Louis Vuitton stores in America have VIP spaces, the South Coast Plaza one if the first built to resemble a salon or maison.

While the elite room is the cornerstone of the South Coast Plaza renovations, ordinary Louis Vuitton fans don’t miss out entirely. The boutique has also recently updated its handbag counter and converted its luggage display to house even more purses. You’ll still be able to find an LV suitcase though; the travel bags have simply been moved to another part of the store.

[Source: The Orange County Register]
[Image Source: Geishaboy500/Flickr]

Louis Vuitton Handbags on eBay

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Proud American label Laura Matthews Designs gets all patriotic with the White Eagle satchel.

The white leather carryall is adorned with a proud pewter eagle. The majestic bird, with its wings outstretched, is given a little extra shine with nickel plating. It’s quite kitsch, but that’s half the fun. Red and blue accents could have looked a little too obvious, so Laura Matthews Designs has opted for unexpected black and yellow racing stripes. Round studs along the edges of the stripes complement the metal eagle and add a hint of rock attitude.

Inside, the White Eagle satchel is luxuriously large with a simple, if slightly boring, beige lining. One wall has a roomy leather trimmed zip pocket, while the other has a handful of open pouches for a cell phone and iPod.

The white color of this Laura Matthews Designs satchel may deter some fashion fans, but at least the label has added metal feet to protect the delicate fabric. I won’t pretend it’ll look pristine after a season or two, but at least the bottom won’t become scuffed!

More Features of This Laura Matthews Designs Satchel

• Zip top closure
• Measures 15 x 5.5 x 10 inches
• Weighs 2 pounds

Get this Laura Matthews White Eagle Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon
• Check the Buy’s Internet Superstore eBay store to see if this Laura Matthews Designs bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Laura Matthews Designs bags on BagBunch
• The Victorian Heart Co. Patriotic Flag Bag bag, a great alternative to this American bag.
• Searching for more Laura Matthews Designs bags on eBay
• Other Laura Matthews Designs satchels on eBay:

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The Danny Roberts for Harajuku Lovers collaboration has been out for some time now, but his designs for the label are as interesting as ever. Bags like the Harajuku Lovers Magic Overnighter showcase this artists’ unique talent for producing exquisite fashion illustrations.

The folks over at Purse Blog had the honor of chatting with Roberts about being approached for the collaboration as well as his long-time interest in fashion. He described his inspiration this way:

Fashion is kind of a door into a dream world for me, and I like entering that dream world. I guess, to me, seeing a fashion collection is like picking the wardrobe for the story that is constantly being written in my head … if that makes sense? Fashion inspires just about every part of my art.

When asked about his reaction to being approached for a collaboration with Gwen Stefani’s whimsical collection, Danny responded:

My eyes went wide as I read the email, and then I started laughing in excitement and disbelief, and then a massive smile formed on my face. That smile stayed on my face for the whole week I think.

While I’m secretly jealous of Purse Blog for getting to pick the brain of this fascinating artist, I’m glad to hear that he’s receiving more well-deserved attention. See more of Danny Roberts’ work on his blog Igor + André and Etsy store.

[Source: Purse Blog]

Harajuku Lovers Bags on eBay

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This Latico Doubletake purse lives up to name. While the neutral color scheme isn’t very eye-catching, the unique creel style definitely turned my head.

The tubular creel design isn’t one we see a lot of, which is why it works so well here. The shape turns a traditional purse into one that’s something special. Unlike many usual styles though, it’s one which is incredibly practical.

The Doubletake isn’t a very big bag, but Latico makes the most of the space on offer with its clever design. The back organizational section folds out, giving us a handy place to stash credit cards, a passport, receipts, and other bits and pieces. The fully lined interior also has a change purse, so you could easily leave your wallet at home and use the medium-sized space for more important things.

The strap is full adjustable, so you can wear the Doubletake as shoulder bag or a cross-body purse. We rarely find a genuine leather purse under the magic $100 mark, but Latico has priced the Doubletake at an affordable $78 retail. That makes it excellent value for girls after a purse that’s just a little bit different.

More Features of This Latico Creel Handbag

• Zip top closure
• Accented with double stitching
• Measures 7 x 4 x 9 inches

Get this Latico Doubletake Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon
• Check the VillageShop Shearling & Leather eBay store to see if this Latico bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Latico bags on BagBunch
• The Bottega Veneta Baby Creel bag, a great alternative to this creel bag.
• Searching for more Latico bags on eBay
• Other creel bags on eBay:

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