Artist Damien Hirst Designs Creepy Trunks for Louis Vuitton

Posted on: Dec 31

Louis Vuitton has commissioned modern British artist Damien Hirst to create an exclusive piece to celebrate the label’s 150th anniversary. The result is this rather sinister twin trunk set designed to carry surgical equipment.

The macabre approach isn’t so surprising though considering Hirst was inspired by David Cronenberg’s film Dead Ringers. The assignment was to design a piece to reflect Hirst’s art, rather than the luxury of Louis Vuitton, so I suppose this creepy creation fits the bill!

Hirst oversaw the development of his trunks in Louis Vuitton’s Asnieres workshops. Each is made from black nomade leather covered in blue microfiber fabric. The interiors are decorated with an odd combination of butterflies and silvery skulls.

No prices or launch dates have been announced as yet, although we can apparently expect a global release. For now though, we’ll just have to be content looking at the photos!

[Source: View on Fashion]

Louis Vuitton Trunks on eBay

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La Regale Magnifique Clutch | Affordable Satin Evening Purse with Rhinestone Buckle

Posted on: Dec 31

Called the Magnifique, this evening purse from La Regale has a lot to live up to.

While I’m not sure it’s deserving of such a grand title, this clutch is still a real crowd pleaser. Its traditional fold-over design and classic satin finish are dressed up with a dazzling rhinestone encrusted buckle. Glittering gems can often look tacky, but by keeping the rest of the purse plain La Regale ensures these crystals add just the right amount of sparkle.

The fairly simple design is continued inside. The satiny lining is lovely, but this isn’t a space to impress. There’s a little more room than we might expect, but the single slide pocket and tucked-away strap are pretty stock standard. Of course, that doesn’t mean we won’t love the chain once the evening wears on!

I think this wine-colored Magnifique is perfect for the season, but if you want to score one for a quarter of the price consider the gold purse. It’s currently on sale at Amazon for a mere $10!

More Features of This La Regale Satin Purse

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Measures 9.5 x 1.5 x 3.75 inches

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Luba J Bella Clutch | Pleated and Folded Patent Purse

Posted on: Dec 30

Have a little bit of punk delicacy on your arm with this cute patent Luba J clutch.

I do love a good contrast between patent and matte fabrics on a handbag; it instantly looks mature and sophisticated! The fabrics, thankfully, actually live up to this impression. Of course, if it costs $330, then you expect the soft leathers and patent exterior to be of the very best of quality!

The design is quite unusual for a clutch, swerving away from the traditional square or rectangular shapes. This is much prettier to look at, especially with the combination of the sloping front and classic folded pleats.

From the individual purple suede lining (with a handy pocket) and the studded patent exterior, this is actually a bit of an eighties throwback.The wristlet chain isn’t as useful as perhaps the brand wishes it was, and I would prefer a shoulder strap for ease of use. I can’t actually complain much beyond this and the uncomfortable chain, this is a classy unique looking purse!

More Features of this Luba J Bella Purse

  • Leather and patent exterior
  • Purple suede interior
  • Contrasting features
  • Chain wrist strap

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Bulga Panache Hobo | Leather Fold-Over Style Convertible Handbag

Posted on: Dec 30

The Bulga Panache hobo has a somewhat complicated design when you really take a look at it. There’s quite a lot to take in when considering this designer handbag.

At first glance, it appears to be a classic hobo-shaped purse with interesting tiers of leather flaps adorning the exterior of the bag. Alas, it’s not nearly that simple.

In what I can only assume was an attempt by Bulga to be cutting edge for design as well as convenience, the Panache is actually a fold-over handbag that converts from the slouchy hobo we see here to a tall, vertical tote. The conversion isn’t as uncomplicated as it might sound, though.

In order to make the switch from hobo to tote, one has to unbuckle the leather strap and remove it from its holders before unfolding the purse and grabbing the optional but unfortunately not detachable ruched leather strap from the interior. To me, that just sounds like a lot of work to get two bags out of one. Not to mention the interesting situation you’d find yourself in trying to quickly get something out of your bag when its folded down with flaps galore surrounding it.

I’m not sold on this Bulga design, but I do like the punchy orange color shown here. Equally pretty is the deep purple version that has a slight patent sheen to it, making it perfect for this current season. For $795, the Panache hobo/tote is probably only worth it if you crave slightly out of the ordinary design and can afford top-notch quality.

More Features of the Panache Hobo

  • Measures 13 x 8 x 8 inches
  • Strap with 6 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Convertible fold-over style

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Lindsay Lohan’s 6126 Collection of Leggings Expands to Clothing with Future Plans to Add Handbags, Shoes, and More

Posted on: Dec 30

You’ve got to give the girl some credit. Lindsay Lohan continues to avidly pursue a career in the design industry despite being rather mercilessly derided and criticized for her past attempts. The starlet certainly has guts when it comes to her efforts to find a solid standing in fashion.

While many of us snickered at Lindsay’s line of stripper pole-ready leggings, the sales numbers spoke for themselves. Shockingly, there appears to be a market for such items, and the slight success of the 6126 line has prompted news of an expansion.

Lindsay, along with the help of her creative team and manufacturing company DNAM Apparel, has plans to further develop the 6126 Collection to include clothing with the average price of $100 to $150. Think tight minis and corset tops paired with those pervasive leggings.

This isn’t as far as the expansion will go, however. LiLo is also planning to add handbags, shoes, jewelry, and even cosmetics to the line in 2011. Part of me wonders if all clothing and accessories will center around what goes best with leggings (since that seems to be her forte). Either way it’s going to be interesting to see what comes next. I’m not holding my breath for groundbreaking handbags, but I’m certainly curious.

[Source: NY Mag]
[Image: Nitrolicious]

Lindsay Lohan Handbags on eBay

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Big Buddha Paris Tote | Large Faux Leather Handbag with Buckle Detail

Posted on: Dec 30

Big Buddha has a knack for hitting on current trends in an everyday, accessible way, but this Paris tote in my opinion is one of its best affordable, yet stylish, designs.

Although there isn’t anything particularly stunning about the tote, the casual chic vibe about the bag and the way that the details come together so effortlessly, but uniquely, is quite appealing. This is one faux leather handbag that might be just as good in synthetic as it would in real leather simply because of the great style.

The Paris is available in a charcoal black, silver, and a pretty cranberry red color, but it’s this rich brown tone seems to suit the look best. The synthetic material has a slight worn-in texture to it, which perfectly complements the equestrian look of the thick criss-crossed straps and brass-toned buckled details.

One of the best aspects of this Big Buddha bag is the fact that the cool features on the front are repeated on the back, unlike some designs that concentrate only on the front for affordability reasons. Thick, sturdy straps complete the look of this somewhat abstract tote.

More Features of the Paris Tote

  • Measures 18 x 13.5 x 6 inches
  • Double straps with 10 inch drop
  • Retail price of $90
  • Textured faux leather

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L.A.M.B. Baron Mini Shoulder Bag | Small Colorful 80s Retro Print Purse

Posted on: Dec 30

It seems the current taste for 80s fashion isn’t fading, at least if L.A.M.B. has any say in it. Gwen Stefani’s fashion brand has just released the Baron Mini Shoulder Bag, a pint sized purse which proudly harks back to this bygone era.

There’s nothing subtle about this retro number. The black fabric body is the ideal backdrop for the colorful fluorescent splatter-paint design. Pinks, yellows, blues, and greens partially obscure the L.A.M.B. logo, which is thankfully rendered in a more sedate white outline.

It should come as no surprise that this bag isn’t big on storage space. They don’t call it a mini for nothing. Zippered pockets and a couple of slips will help keep the clutter at bay, a blessing in a purse so small.

L.A.M.B.’s used this same print, which it calls Spectral, in many larger bags. So many colors on a big canvas could easily overwhelm an outfit, but the mini bag is a different story. Just make sure to pair it with dark denims or other neutrals; the last thing you need is more color when carrying the Baron!

More Features of This L.A.M.B 80s Mini Shoulder Bag

  • Plainweave logo lining
  • Zipper closure
  • A single shoulder strap with a 6.5 inch drop
  • Measures 6 x 8.5 x 2 inches
  • Made in China

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Prix-prix Recycles Neckties and Suits for Eco-Friendly Wallets

Posted on: Dec 30

Laura Skelton’s Prix-prix fashion label is the latest to come to my attention for its eco-friendly practices. Her wallets are handcrafted from recycled silk neck ties, and lined with reclaimed men’s suits.

Pennsylvania-based Laura collects her materials from thrift stores and the backs of closets, and becomes inspired by their prints and histories. Rather than trying to completely transform her materials as many green designers do, she respects the character of the each piece of fabric she uses. The same approach is used in Prix-prix’s necktie necklaces and notepads.

Each Prix-prix wallet is both stylish, and completely unique. They’re also on the small side, with only a handful of card slots and a pocket for bills. But if you’re looking for something beautiful and environmentally friendly, it might be worth traveling light.

While the green tag can make prices soar, that’s not the case here. You can order a Prix-prix wallet from Uncommon Goods and selected boutiques for just $28.

[Source: Ecoteurre]
[Image Source: Uncommon Goods]

Recycled Wallets on eBay

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Kotur Wallace Satchel | Large Luxury Gold Leaf Haircalf Handbag

Posted on: Dec 30

Kotur has quickly established a reputation as an affordable luxury label with its exotic clutches all priced under the magic $1000 mark. While there’s a time and place for frugality, sometimes it’s fun to forget about penny pinching. If you agree, let me introduce you to the Wallace.

This large Kotur bag screams luxury. It was modeled after a classic satchel spotted in Paris’ vintage Clignancourt market, but something tells me the original wasn’t quite so opulent. The haircalf finish is very of-the-moment, but I’ve never seen it quite like this. The gold leaf dusting is utterly lavish and incredibly stylish. While it catches the light, glittering and gleaming, it’s not as tacky as crystals or even golden hardware might be. This is bling for grown-ups.

But the looks of the Wallace only tell half the story. A host of practical features all work together to make this large handbag manageable. There’s a large zippered pocket for change and open compartments for your cell phone and MP3 player. If it’s security you’re after, the Wallace can be locked or double-locked with the hidden key.

Kotur’s used to making a statement, and with the Wallace is makes one of its most definitive. Is it any wonder that Blake Lively’s Serena van der Woodsen has already been spotted carrying one on Gossip Girl?

More Features of This Kotur Haircalf Satchel

  • A detachable strap
  • Suede lined interior
  • Measures 17.7 x 15.7 x 7.5 inches

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Christy Turlington Back Again for Bally Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign | Bally Returns to Swiss Roots

Posted on: Dec 29

Bally decided to revisit quite a few things for its most recent advertising campaign. Not only does the spring/summer 2010 photo shoot reunite the label’s fashion with ubiquitous American supermodel Christy Turlington, but Bally also took things back to its Swiss origins.

Instead of using Mario Sorrenti, the brand’s chosen photographer from the last three campaigns and whose talent we recently saw with Max Mara’s spring ads, Bally opted for talented Swiss-born photographer Raymond Meier.

Meier isn’t the only piece of Switzerland to be a part of the photo shoot, however. In an interesting twist for a spring and summer-centered campaign, the Swiss Alps provide the backdrop for Turlington and her Bally fashion.

Sure, she’s tanned and glowing and wearing warm weather appropriate clothing and accessories, but it seems like a bit of a contradiction considering the ice and snow behind her. No wonder she’s slightly hunched over. She’s probably bracing herself against a brisk wind.

The slouchy python hobo, however, is absolute perfection for the upcoming season. I love how it takes front stage in the ad. You can’t help but notice it, and it’s totally worth the look.

[Source: Models.com]

Bally Handbags on eBay

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