Chanel Creates Limited Edition 2.55 Handbag for Boutique Opening in Melbourne

Posted on: Nov 19

Among its architectural masterpieces and other urban attractions, Melbourne, Australia also boasts the largest shopping center in the Southern Hemisphere. Chadstone, or rather “Chaddy” as it is sometimes referred to by locals, is home to a collection of shops that ranges from Target to Tiffany’s.

The luxury fashion precinct of Chadstone is actually a new addition, though. The elegant boutique section includes Burberry, Gucci, Coach, Chanel, and more with other major labels rumored to move in soon.

Chanel celebrated the opening by releasing an exclusive 2.55 quilted lambskin bag, which contains a special plaque inside to commemorate the launch.

It was created by Karl Lagerfeld exclusively for the launch of our new boutique at Chadstone, which opened on Wednesday,” Susie Stenmark from Chanel Australia tells us.

You’ll have to be in Australia to get your hands on one, though. This limited edition handbag is only available at the label’s store at Chadstone.

[Source: Sassy Bella]

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Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tate | Sturdy Tote Bag with Logo Stitching

Posted on: Nov 19

I’m fairly certain that the words “pretty” and “nylon” don’t go together all that often when it comes to high fashion, but evidently Marc Jacobs is attempting to change that with the Pretty Nylon Tate collection from his trendy designer line Marc by Marc Jacobs.

It’s by no means the first time a designer brand has utilized nylon for a handbag. Even Kate Spade has gotten in on the action with her Coney Island Stevie Satchel. This use of the sturdy material on the Tate, however, is not particularly compelling to me despite its popular label.

The Pretty Nylon Tate is indeed made from durable, easy-to-take-care of nylon and could be called cute, in my opinion; but I’m just not completely sold on the pretty part. It’s certainly not unattractive, but it’s no Loopy Bow Pouchette.

On the other hand, I like the unique logo topstitching that covers the tote but doesn’t stand out too much. It’s just enough to add a little something to the simple design. The knotted handle rings are a nice touch as well. In addition to the practical material, the Pretty Nylon Tate has convenient double side pockets on the exterior as well as a very roomy lined interior for carrying around tons of stuff.

More Features of the Pretty Nylon Tate

  • Measures 21.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches
  • Magnetic closure
  • Signature logo topstitching

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Blake Lively Won’t Front Victoria Beckham Ad Campaign

Posted on: Nov 19

They might be bosom buddies, but Blake Lively won’t model for Victoria Beckham’s new fashion line. Victoria’s spokesperson told Vogue.com he’s unsure what prompted the rumor, but that it’s definitely not true.

I don’t know where this one has come from – other than from Blake being a fan of the Victoria Beckham collection,” he said. “She is not Victoria’s ‘muse’ and there is no ‘face of’ the advertising campaign.”

The Gossip Girl starlet met the former Spice Girl during New York Fashion Week. She’s been spotted wearing pieces from Victoria’s collections both on and off screen, while Victoria just landed herself a plum role on Blake’s drama series. The whispers of Blake’s starring turn in the marketing campaign seemed such a natural fit considering how much their paths have crossed lately, but I guess some things aren’t meant to be. Perhaps Victoria’s people should reconsider though. Surely having Blake’s endorsement would help boost the sales of Mrs. Beckham’s brand!

[Source: Style By Me]
[Image Source: Kristin dos Santos/Wikipedia Commons]

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Liz Claiborne Crocodile Wristlet | Traditional Vintage-Style Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

This Liz Claiborne wristlet brings posh and sophisticated class to an unusual shape.

Crocodile print, with its spacious pattern, is generally saved for bigger purses and vintage bags. To see it being used surprisingly effectively for a little clutch is a great change.

The styling of this wristlet is very vintage. Whilst wrist straps weren’t common back then, everything else is so retro: the big gold buckle, the glossy patent leather. It is both evening wear and smart office wear, and brilliantly versatile.

I have to say that personally I am not convinced by the alternate bag color, branded “matte gold”. Rather than being glamorous and mature, this color actually looks more murky dull brown. Not nice! In black it looks great though!

Whilst the looks of this bag are expensive, the materials aren’t. And understandably so; you are only paying $40 for this, after all. With this in mind, however, and especially considering the thinness of the handle, I wouldn’t hold out for this vintage clutch to last for many seasons. It is even less likely to last with all the wear it may just get!

More Features of this Liz Claiborne Traditional Wristlet

  • Available in gold or black
  • Patent leather exterior
  • Gray interior
  • Convertible strap

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Moschino Vernice Luce Tote | Luxury Designer Patent Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Nov 19

When you can get $4k off a bag in a sale, and it can still cost over $3k, you know that you have a really expensive bag. No surprise then that this sophisticated, yet understated, patent purse is from handbag icon, Moschino.

If you are a designer handbag addict who loves having a good name and reputation on her arm, then Moschino may well be the most dreamworthy name on your lips. Owning a bag like this is narrowed to only a few people with limited production lines, so you know that you have that exclusivity and are unlikely to bump into anyone wearing the same one.

The Vernice Luce shoulder bag is a great and smart day-to-day bag, perfect for office work as well as carrying folders and business plans. Equally, the patent leather dresses it up for nightfall, as does the cute heart clasp. You also pay for luxury, and this unusual shade will allow you to stand out from the crowd with the rich glossy color.

Of course, all these upsides are very well and good, but nothing other than the name is going to make a bag this expensive. Sure the leather is gorgeous and the satchel-esque doctors bag shape divine, but you could find this in another cheaper designer brand. This is a status symbol, even if the handles are a little too short, and as such should be treated accordingly!

More Features of this Luxury Moschino Shoulder Bag

  • Duel handles with gathered attachment
  • Heart twist lock clasp
  • Patent leather
  • Compartment in the interior

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Burberry Lizzie Handbag | Nappa Leather Convertible Studded Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

Burberry is one of those labels I love to hate. I get tired of the brand’s iconic plaid purses, but when it steps out of the box the designs tend to fall flat. But Burberry seems to have gotten it right with the Lizzie. And there’s not a hint of tartan in sight!

Instead the Lizzie features those on trend studs we’re seeing so much of lately. The purse is virtually covered in them, but by keeping the metal small Burberry ensures the hardware doesn’t get overwhelming. Plain diagonal leather strips break up the design, and are mirrored in the V-shaped pleats in the center of the purse.

The studs may be modern, but the size isn’t. The Lizzie bucks the contemporary taste for oversized bags, and I think it works. Those studs may have overwhelmed on a larger canvas after all. Instead we get a purse which is large enough for carrying everyday essentials but doesn’t weigh us down.

With the strap, the Lizzie is a cute daytime bag. But remove it and you’ve got one sexy little clutch for your next cocktail party. That day to night versatility makes the epic $2150 price a little easier to swallow.

More Features of This Burberry Studded Shoulder Purse

  • A zip top closure
  • Fabric lined interior
  • A zippered pocket and slip pocket inside
  • A removable 18 inch handle with an 8 inch drop
  • Measures 11 x 1 x 5 inches
  • Made in Italy

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Bulgari Dalia Shoulder Bag | Elegant Hobo Style Calf Leather Purse

Posted on: Nov 19

Bulgari’s Dalia bag has been spotted on the arms of Jessica Alba, Eva Mendes, and Frieda Pinto. But it’s not hard to see why. The relaxed hobo-like slouch of buttery soft leather combines with the simple, sophisticated design makes this Bulgari purse the ideal day-to-night accessory.

This is one bag that gives us options, although none of them are exactly cheap. This ebony calf leather Dalia is one of the most affordable at $2100. If your budget can stretch further you may consider the Dalia in buffalo leather or even python. Our alternatives aren’t limited to fabrics either, with Bulgari releasing many different colors of this celebrity favorite.

I love the Dalia’s sexy curves and soft, sensual pleats. The hardware is kept to a minimum; small buckles on the side and the logo embossed double ring in the center give a flash of metallic gleam while keeping the bag’s classic looks intact.

This is an enormous bag, make no mistake, but as it doesn’t dwarf the frame of its celebrity fans us mere mortals should be able to handle it. I’d have appreciated more than a the tiny zippered pocket and cell phone slip to keep such a large space organized, but I think carrying such a delicious piece of arm candy would be worth the extra effort!

More Features of This Bulgari’s Leather Shoulder Bag

  • Magnetic closure
  • Measures 22.8 x 19.3 x 9.8 inches

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Christie’s Auction House to Launch “Gucci Collector” Website for Vintage Item Appraisals

Posted on: Nov 18

Gucci has always been vigilant to crack down on counterfeiting and trademark infringement, but now they’re taking a new angle on brand protection. This time, however, they aren’t fighting the fight alone.

Legendary auction house Christie’s is teaming up with the luxury brand to provide a “trusted venue for transactions of vintage Gucci items,” according to Gucci’s chief executive Patrizio di Marco who was quoted in a recent New York Times article. By the end of this year, Christie’s will have a section on their website solely dedicated to helping appraisals of vintage Gucci goods.

The “Gucci Collector” section of the site will allow users to upload images of their items, which will then be evaluated and appraised by a bonafide Gucci archivist.

I feel it is a noble, appropriate and modern way to provide access to original Gucci vintage products to a relevant and well-targeted audience,” said Mr. di Marco.

[Source: NY Times]
[Image: Qiao-Da-Ye/Flickr]

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Jessica Jensen Origami Tote | Sophisticated Structural Leather Hold-all

Posted on: Nov 18

It is lovely to see an origami style bag that isn’t just a tiny clutch. Here that beautiful structural design style is expanded to fit within a tote sized purse, and the result is fun to look at.

I feel that this tote is somewhat disproportionate. The long body and relatively short handles make it look rather unbalanced, and that origami texture is somewhat drowned by the sheer amount of dark brown leather. This could have been improved by a contrasting trim, stitching or some nice metal; the straight singular shade alone is simply too much.

When we look a little closer there are a number of lovely features about this bag. The soft pink lining is a great and eternally stylish color combination, and the folding is both casual and smart at the same time. The shape too is elegant, structured and sophisticated, even if the handles mean you won’t want to pack it to the brim.

All in all this is a functional and feminine purse with some lovely touches and features. What it lacks in variety it makes up for in versatility.

More Features of this Jessica Jensen Hold-all

  • Folded seamed origami styling
  • Duel shoulder straps
  • Spacious size
  • Pink fabric lining

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B. Makowsky Brasilia E/W Satchel | Croc-Embossed Leather Handbag with Front Pocket

Posted on: Nov 18

Embossed leather is the way to go when you want the look of exotic material without the price tag. Whether using the technique on real leather or manmade material, brands have caught on to the popular trend, and embossed bags of crocodile, ostrich, snakeskin, and more are flooding in.

There are two things about this croc-embossed Brasilia satchel from B. Makowsky that set it apart from some other embossed bag candidates. First, the leather is real and soft, which is a signature of the label but not always the case with other brands. Second, the crocodile texture is somewhat subtle and spread out instead of compact and busy like some embossing.

These two factors, when combined with the Brasilia’s other attractive qualities, make for a very decent handbag style. I wouldn’t call it a simple design due to the other design features, such as the top corner panels, buckled details, and half-moon front zippered pocket. However, the details together somehow don’t overwhelm the style but rather come together in a very appealing way.

The Brasilia is available in this E/W satchel shape as well as a smaller satchel and N/S shopper. This light “vachetta” brown is a nice, neutral choice as are the dark brown and black options, but the deep blue “pacific” color is both pretty and unexpected. This B. Makowsky satchel retails for $278.

More Features of the Brasilia E/W Satchel

  • Measures 16.5 x 10 x 4.5 inches
  • Double handles with 10 inch drop
  • Zip top closure
  • Coin pocket on back
  • Signature leopard-print lining

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