Big Buddha Mari Hobo | Casual Fabric and Faux Leather Handbag

Posted on: Oct 21

The Mari Hobo bag is part of Big Buddha’s fall 2009 collection, but I have to admit that I’m a bit confused by its placement there. It’s not that I dislike the design. I’m just not sure it’s totally fall-worthy with its fabric body.

That being said, the style of the Mari Hobo is very appealing. With the majority of the handbag in fabric and the trim on the handles and the sides in synthetic leather-like material, there’s a nice blend of texture and a definite air of casual and contemporary chic to this Big Buddha bag.

I’m not in love with the contrasting stitching on the front of this beige version. It’s a little strange that such an eyecatching detail isn’t continued on the back of the hobo. However, that isn’t a factor if you choose the dark black color instead, which would probably be a better choice anyway as far as hiding dirt on the fabric.

Like basically any of Big Buddha’s designs, the Mari Hobo is decently priced at just $90. I wouldn’t call it an extremely versatile purse since the fabrics and slouchy look limit you to casual outfits, but it’s a great affordable option for a simple but stylish accessory.

More Features of the Mari Hobo

  • Measures 16.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches
  • Double handles with 7.5 inch drop
  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Fabric and faux leather material

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Sondra Roberts Patent Leather Shoulder Bag | Woven Spacious Dual Handled Baguette

Posted on: Oct 21

Warm dark colors are perfect for the coming winter season, designed to stay out the rain and keep your belongings cosy. This patent purse from Sondra Roberts is available in chocolaty brown and rich burgundy, to help you through the encroaching winter nights.

The patent may actually be a little too glossy for many people. but the woven textured leather design adds a third dimension that pulls this baguette back from the brink of tacky. The over-sized matching buckles and fasteners complete this rescue, producing quite a sophisticated design!

Whilst there is no long handle to make this shoulder bag all the more functional, there are actually a few added bonuses that make this so much easier to use. The reinforced base is a great addition, as is the durable gray lining.

Thought has been put into this, even if the number of pockets added is a little sparse!

More Features of this Sondra Roberts New York Woven Purse

  • Grosgrain lining
  • Single interior pocket
  • U-shaped zipper opening for easy access
  • Metal feet for durability

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Lucky Brand Stash Bag | Versatile Soft Italian Leather Carryall Handbag

Posted on: Oct 21

If a hobo handbag and a messenger had a torrid affair, the Stash Bag from Lucky Brand could easily result.

It’s got the soft slouch of a hobo, the foldover flap of a messenger, and the relaxed attitude of both! The casual slouch profile comes from the buttery Italian leather, which falls softly in a bohemian style. However the overall appearance is more rock and roll than hippie chic thanks to the antique brass hardware and sexy stitching.

The generous main compartment has enough space to hold the essentials plus a few little luxuries like a bottle of water and your favourite fashion mag. Two extra pockets up front are perfect for storing your cell phone, car keys, or anything else you need on hand. But the added bonus is the zipper you see on the front flap. Open it up to reveal the secret stash compartment that gives the bag its name. This hidden section keeps your cash and cards out of sight and reach.

The Stash Bag is the perfect companion for jeans, but in classic colors like black or vintage brown you could easily dress it up for after work drinks or that hot dinner date.

More Features of This Lucky Brand Flap Bag

  • Tan cotton lining
  • Magnetic closure
  • A single adjustable shoulder strap with a maximum 22-inch drop
  • Measures 12 x 14 x 3.5 inches

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Coach Sees Growth in Financial Crisis Thanks to Budget Poppy Collection

Posted on: Oct 21

Coach’s move into the budget handbag sector has seen the luxury label grow despite the financial crisis.

The brand’s profits fell slightly in the fiscal first-quarter, but revenue is up. This is an encouraging sign when so many luxury labels are suffering.

Consumers have embraced Coach’s budget bags priced between $200 and $300, particularly the Poppy line. Around half of Coach bags are priced under $300, compared to just 30% a year ago.

For the foreseeable future, we do not expect the consumer to spend as much as she has done in discretionary areas,” CEO Lew Frankfort told investors. He added, “We have adapted our pricing and product strategies to be successful in what will become the ‘new normal.’

While customers are spending less, Mr. Frankfort says they’re doing it with confidence.

We have seen a significant improvement in our customers’ outlook for the economy and intention to purchase over the next year.”

Coach is capitalizing on the results, with plans to introduce two new women’s accessory groups, Waverly and Gramercy. There’ll also be new Poppy items priced under the magic $100 mark. Boys won’t be forgotten either, with the brand planning to open its first men’s stand-alone store next to its Bleeker Street outlet in New York City.

[Source: Associated Press]
[Image Source: Coach Poppy website]

Coach Poppy Bags on eBay

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Lovcat Cirque du Soleil Wallet | Small Pink Sparkly Purse with Ruched Details

Posted on: Oct 21

With a name like the Cirque du Soleil, you couldn’t expect this Lovecat wallet to be shy or retiring.

The circus-inspired purse is a real performer, with its soft ruched finished embellished by thousands of tiny reflective dots. They make the Cirque du Soleil glimmer and gleam in a way that’s bound to polarize audiences. Look closely and you’ll see larger spots peeking through the sheer fabric. Yes, it’s girly and even a little childish. But as wallets spend most of their time tucked away in handbags, I think most of us can afford to be a little more daring.

Despite its playful looks, inside the Cirque du Soleil means business. It’s a petite creature, yet there are still six card slots and four side storage slots. There’s not one, but two, open sections for dollar bills and receipts, and a secure zippered coin pouch. A press-stud closure keeps everything safely inside.

It won’t suit everyone, but at just $95, this is an affordable and practical purse for those thrilled by its sparkly exterior.

More Features of This Lovcat Sparkly Wallet

  • Silver interior
  • Measures 4.2 x 1 x 3.7 inches

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Mischa Barton in Trademark Legal Battle with Australian Handbag Brand

Posted on: Oct 20

It’s not just booze binges and mediocre handbag designs threatening Mischa Barton’s efforts to take her accessories line worldwide. Her latest enemy is an Australian handbag designer.

Mischa hopes to trademark her name, signature and logo Down Under, but Queensland brand Mischa Accessories has other ideas. The Gold Coast-based handbag label has opposed Mischa’s efforts to register the trademark in Oz.

Earlier this year American singer Katy Perry was involved in a similar dispute with Sydney-based fashion designer Katie Perry. The Aussies won that case, but lawyers say the Gold Coast brand may have a tougher time with its suit.

Mischa Accessories manager Mervill Allen and Mischa Barton’s Melbourne-based lawyers have so far refused to comment on the case.

Australia has seen a dramatic rise in the number of trademark opposition cases in the last two years, with many local companies keen to protect their turf. I can understand that, but I’m not sure I follow the logic of this case. The names are similar but not identical. If anything it seems likely that fans may snap up a Mischa Accessories bag mistaking it for a Mischa Barton original. I certainly can’t see it driving customers away from the Queenslanders!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph]
[Image Source: Friskytuna/Flickr]

Mischa Barton Handbags on eBay

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Inge Christopher Margo Santorini Clutch | Soft Slouchy Folded Handbag

Posted on: Oct 20

I love the look of this Inge Christopher clutch. Visually, the creamy soft leather falls just right, and the delicate folded origami style is a mix of edgy and gently feminine.

Even better, the design is stronger than it looks, and won’t need constant rearranging into the perfect shape, thanks to the deceptively elegant shrunken leather.

Looks-wise the bag is flawless. From the sumptuous satin lining to the unique designer exterior, I don’t know what flaws to mention. Of course the ivory will stain and discolor easier than the other shades, but if you are spending $250 on a purse you should be willing to look after it!

Even better, the functionality ticks a whole load of boxes. The slouchy shape folds over, but has a zip fastening too to prevent your belongings escaping if dropped. The optional handle is chain, but at just the right length; not too long and not too short. The interior pocket is handy, and the size is spacious.

All in all, I love this bag. I don’t like it as much in gray or brown, but in the ivory it is elegant and dramatic and really designer.

More Features of this Inge Christopher Folded Clutch

  • Available in “copper”, gray or ivory
  • Italian shrunken leather
  • Optional chain strap
  • Pearlized exterior

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Burberry Sues Pet Supply Store for Selling Plaid Similar to Label’s Signature Pattern

Posted on: Oct 20

Burberry is taking a cue from fellow designer handbag maker Coach and cracking down on copyright infringement. While Coach has taken action against retailers who are selling styles similar to their own, Burberry is all about protecting its signature checkered pattern.

The British-based company is up in arms about UK pet supply store Pets at Home selling dog coats and baskets in a plaid design close to its own signature plaid. It must have been fairly identical for Burberry to feel that the retail store was violating copyright laws. The legal dispute is currently ongoing, although the items have been taken off the shelves.

It isn’t the first time that the company’s well-known (though some might call it strikingly basic and easy to imitate) plaid has been sold to consumers, and I’m guessing it won’t be the last legal action that Burberry takes regarding the subject. Hopefully this one can be settled out of court.

[Source: Style List]
[Image: Saks Fifth Avenue]

Burberry Check Handbags on eBay

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Carlos Falchi Box Clutch | Shiny Anaconda Snakeskin Handbag

Posted on: Oct 20

Carlos Falchi might be getting ready to see the release of an affordable line of faux snakeskin handbags at Target, but that doesn’t mean that the designer isn’t still churning out other designs made from the real deal.

For genuine anaconda snakeskin leather from a designer label, I’m actually not completely aghast at the Carlos Falchi Box Clutch’s price tag of $595. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been shocked to see it a bit higher. That doesn’t, however, lessen its designer quality or appeal. It is a Carlos Falchi, after all.

The exotic skin is a signature of the label, and snakeskin seems to be a particular favorite. Similar to the Flat Python Clutch, this Box Clutch has no surprising features or unexpected details besides the unique texture. It’s a typical size for a small clutch bag, has simple, clean lines, and is altogether classy.

There’s just a little something about the scaly skin that kind of makes me go ick, but that certainly wouldn’t deter me from carrying around this little luxury bag. If anaconda doesn’t do it for you, there are other options for the Box Clutch style. For about twice the price, you can get this Carlos Falchi design in ostrich or crocodile.

More Features of the Anaconda Box Clutch

  • Measures 6.5 x 4 x 1.75 inches
  • Optional chain strap with 15 inch drop
  • Front flap with magnetic closure

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Lodis Arno Runway Clutch Purse | Affordable Authentic Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag

Posted on: Oct 20

Lodis is a brand that knows its niche. It’s not one to take risks, but the label always delivers chic and sophisticated accessories.

That might make the Arno Runway seem like a bit of a misnomer. When I think catwalk I think of cutting edge styles and fashion-forward looks. There’s none of that envelope pushing here, so if you’re after a head-turner you may be disappointed.

But if you’re already a fan of Lodis, or you’re simply after an accessory that’s traditional and timeless, prepare to be impressed. Just $118 seems like a steal for this genuine leather clutch. The berry-colored calfskin is stamped with exotic crocodile scales. Keeping the scales uneven and irregular gives the purse an authentic air missing in many embossed accessories. I might just be fooled by this one if I didn’t know better!

It’s not a large purse by any means, but the long, slim design strikes the balance between space and sophistication. Inside you’ll find a zippered pocket for loose change and an ID slot for your cards. A magnetic closure beneath the flap keeps your party essentials in order.

In a world of metal-strapped clutches, the leather handle is a godsend. How refreshing to wear a strapless dress to a party and not suffer unsightly chain marks on your shoulder! Speaking of those upcoming parties, this cherry red is positively festive. The Arno Runway is also available in mint green and lilac.

More Features of This Lodis Croc Leather Clutch

  • Fully lined interior
  • A detachable shoulder strap with a 9.5 inch drop
  • Measures 10 x 3 x 4 inches

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