Kathy Van Zeeland fans are sure to feel their heart race when they clamp eyes on the Heartbeat satchel. But for the rest of us, it probably won’t be love at first sight.

Kathy Van Zeeland knows her market, and she gives them what they want. The shiny synthetic looks a little tacky, but it does see the satchel priced under the magic $100 mark. When you can’t afford patent, it’s an affordable head turner. The angular zips are a little chunky for my tastes, but they work with the studs and heart-shaped logo plate to add the obligatory KVZ edge.

You certainly can’t fault the purse on a practical front. While it may not be made of durable material, the Heartbeat has everything you need while it lasts. The zippered pockets on the front aren’t just for show; they offer storage space for the small essentials you need at your fingers. The slide pockets at each end aren’t so obvious, but they also offer some accessible storage space. The satchel is a decent sized space for everyday use. You’ll find enough space for everything you need, but it’s not big enough to overwhelm you.

The combination of silver hardware and glossy black synthetic on this Heartbeat satchel reminds me of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and rock and roll. If it’s a little too predictable for your tastes, don’t worry. The Heartbeat is also available in seven other shades.

More Features of This Kathy Van Zeeland Synthetic Satchel

• Top zip entry
• Nylon lined interior
• A zippered pocket, cell phone slip, and two slide pockets inside
• Dual shoulder straps with a 6.5 inch drop
• Measures 9.5 x 15.5 x 4 inches

Get this Kathy Van Zeeland Heartbeat Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Kathy Van Zeeland Heartbeat satchel, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check The Review Shoppe eBay store to see if this Kathy Van Zeeland bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Kathy Van Zeeland bags on BagBunch
• The Kathy Van Zeeland Heartbeat belt shopper bag, a great alternative to this satchel bag.
• Searching for more Kathy Van Zeeland bags on eBay

Katherine Fleming is a rising star in the world of accessories thanks to some celebrity fans and new faithful followers. This American designer, who was until recently Design Director of Accessories for Tory Burch, officially launched her own handbag line in the fall of 2008.

With celebrities like Naomi Watts and Agyness Deyn seen toting around her styles, I’m guessing that Katherine Fleming will only get bigger in the fashion world. Her classic and feminine designs aren’t particularly edgy, but they are unique takes on traditional bags.

The designer’s interesting use of colors, textures, and sheen is showcased in her spring collection, which was inspired by the ocean. This pictured pinkish-colored metallic material, called Goldfish Python, and matte python Ocean Batik are just two examples of the sea-like inspiration of the collection. There’s even an iridescent shoulder bag that calls to mind fish scales.

Fleming’s new collection will be available in the spring at Opening Ceremony, Barneys New York, and Liberty of London. Check out more from this up-and-coming designer on her official website.

[Source: Style.com]

Python Handbags on eBay

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Although I am rather fond of Hobo International’s simple, clean lines, the brand does tend to be a tad safe sometimes. Unlike other labels who are constantly pushing the envelope with handbag fashion, Hobo International sticks with the basics plus a few modern details. However, they generally do it beautifully with only a few predictable exceptions.

This Rocklin Flapover Clutch kind of caught me by surprise since it seems a little out of the brand’s typical style, but the look is quite unique and stunning. The company is going in a good direction with this look as with the recent and similarly detailed Solano Tote.

On the Rocklin, the carefully smocked leather gives the illusion of a relaxed silhouette but also adds a degree of visual appeal. It’s a great blend of texture and a basic shape that keeps things simple and uncluttered yet interesting. 

Contrary to how it might look to some, the front flap is not the closure to this clutch. There is actually a zippered closure just inside the end of the flap-over that is accessed when the bag is extended. It makes it just a wee bit complicated to get in and out of the purse but could be a positive if your concern is pickpockets. The entry doesn’t bother me, but there might be some who find it annoying.

There are some great autumn color options available for the Rocklin Flapover including this lovely shade of sage green. This leather clutch retails for $198.

More Features of the Rocklin Flapover Clutch

• Measures 13.25 x 7 x 2 inches
• Zippered top
• Smocked front detail

Get this Hobo International Rocklin Flapover Bag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited quantities)
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Hobo International bags on BagBunch
• The Juicy Couture Crown Madge, a great alternative to this smocked detail clutch.
• Searching for more Hobo International clutches on eBay
• Other leather foldover clutches on eBay:

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Kathrine Baumann has gone all out to celebrate Barbie’s 50th anniversary with the release of this three-dimensional minaudiere.

Kathrine Baumann’s trademark Swarovski crystals help to recreate everyone’s favorite plastic doll. Golden sparkling gems make up her iconic blonde mane, while blue stones give her eyes just the right sparkle.

This is a tiny purse, and storage space is compromised by that head shape. Think bare basics ladies. You’ll be able to carry your cash and cards, but you may need to ask your boyfriend to hold the rest of your essentials!

But practicality isn’t entirely abandoned, with Kathrine Baumann providing a convenient golden chain strap. There are also additional Swarovski crystals, so you can easily fix any bald spots that develop in time.

This is a very faithful tribute, but I think it’d be a little creepy to carry a severed doll’s head about. And that’s before I even know the bottom line. The Kathrine Baumann website says the price is on application, so I’m not expecting it to come cheaply. I think this one might be for die-hard Barbie fans only!

More Features of This Kathrine Baumann Doll Minaudiere

• Fully lined interior
• Comes with a certificate of authenticity
• Measures 5.5 x 3.63 x 4.25 inches

Get this Kathrine Baumann Barbie Handbag:

• Available to buy at Kathrine Baumann website
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Kathrine Baumann bags on BagBunch
• The Kathrine Baumann bag with black hair, a great alternative to this blonde-haired doll bag.
• Searching for more Kathrine Baumann bags on eBay
• Other Kathrine Baumann Barbie bags on eBay:

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British luxury brand Burberry has followed up its successful showing at London Fashion Week with improved sales figures.

The group’s shares are up by more than 3%, thanks to the enthusiasm for Burberry’s fall and winter collections. Handbags and casual outerwear proved particularly popular with shoppers preparing for cold weather.

Like-for-like sales in Burberry outlets rose by 5% in the quarter to the end of September, compared to the flat performance seen in the year’s first quarter.

The luxury brand sold best in the United Kingdom, buoyed by tourists taking advantage of the weak pound.

“Today’s statement confirms our view that the Burberry brand is likely to continue to outperform the rest of the luxury sector in the current difficult environment,” said Dennis Weber, analyst for Evolution Securities.

It’s great to see iconic brands like Burberry continuing to thrive despite the economic downturn. With some analysts predicting the worst is over, it seems the only way is up for this revamped British label.

[Source: Press Association]
[Image Source: Soul2Love/Flickr]

Burberry Bags on eBay

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It sounds like a frothy concoction, but the Bubbles minaudiere from Inge Christopher is actually a sleek and chic clutch.

The misleading moniker comes from the champagne toned lambskin finish, which is every bit as luxurious as it sounds. The slightly shimmery skin is complemented by gleaming gold-toned hardware. With its structured frame and push button clasp, the Bubbles has a timeless vintage air.

The interior is predictably small, but not without luxury. The satiny lining makes the inside a little bit special. The golden chain is a convenient touch, but I really wish it was removable. Such a small clutch doesn’t need any extra clutter!

With its neutral tone and simple design, the Bubbles minaudiere can easily be incorporated into any evening outfit. If you’re looking for something with a little more pizzazz, this pretty purse is also available with crystals.

More Features of This Inge Christopher Champagne Minaudiere

• An interior slip pocket
• A drop-in chain with a 7 inch drop
• Measures 3.5 x 2.2 x 6.2 inches

Get this Inge Christopher Bubbles Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Inge Christopher Bubbles, 2, “”, “”l[/phpbay]

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Inge Christopher bags on BagBunch
• The crystal Bubbles bag, a great alternative to this plain bag.
• Searching for more Inge Christopher bags on eBay

It’s simply fabulous when luxury labels collaborate with budget fashionista favorite Target. A few months ago, we heard about the upcoming diffusion line for the retail store from exotic skin-loving designer Carlos Falchi.

Well, Falchi followers, we now have a tiny peek into what we can expect from the limited time collection. No surprise that the line will feature faux snakeskin in gorgeous jewel tones and other dark colors. There’s even some faux snakeskin patchwork and collage technique in the mix.

This Carlos Falchi for Target ad featuring a green shoulder bag from the collection was in my recent issue of Lucky magazine. You can also see a gray cross-body style from the line at InStyle’s giveaway page for the purse where you can find out about submitting an e-mail request to win one of a hundred of the bags being awarded to readers.

The affordable luxury limited edition collection is expected to hit Target’s stores and website on November 1 and run through December 24.

[Source: nitrolicious]

Carlos Falchi Handbags on eBay

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LeSportsac is not exactly a trendsetting brand, at least as far as the majority of the fashion world goes. However, this company offers nothing less than the most practical bags imaginable without inducing boredom.

This Kasey Crossbody is a testament to the brand’s marriage of convenience and cuteness. The nylon material that covers the inside and outside of the Kasey is fairly standard for LeSportsac’s designs and one of the things that attracts many shoppers. There’s something very comforting about knowing that you don’t need any special stain-cleaning talent when something is spilled on this purse.

Although you can get the Kasey, and most LeSportsac bags, in a solid color like black, I’m not sure who would want to when there are a plethora of fun, whimsical prints from which to choose. My personal favorite is this retro-looking, colorful owl pattern. It’s certainly not professional office appropriate or something to take on a dressy night out, but the cute print is perfect for day trips and running errands.

The variety of prints isn’t the only appeal of the Kasey, though. This crossbody offers much more space than you’d imagine from a relatively flat handbag. The deep interior is great for filling with a few big items, and the two exterior zippered pocket are just right for smaller things like cash, cell phone, lip gloss, and more, eliminating the necessity of a wallet. The adjustable strap is practical but also detachable if you’d prefer to stow this organizing handbag into a larger tote for the day.

More Features of the Kasey Crossbody

• Measures 7.5 x 9.5 x 0.5 inches
• Adjustable crossbody strap with 14 inch drop
• Two exterior pockets
• Retail price of $38

Get this LeSportsac Kasey Bag:

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

[phpbay]lesportsac kasey, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More LeSportsac bags on BagBunch
• The Nine West Sidney Cross Body, a great alternative to this nylon crossbody bag.
• Searching for more LeSportsac handbags on eBay

Forzieri has produced a cool little handbag with this monochromatic Capaf wicker purse.

The shape, first off, is exciting. Square and chunky, this purse is reminiscent of vintage styling and 60s fashion, all interspersed with memories of picnic baskets and childhood days out. If the nostalgia hasn’t sold it to you already, Forzieri brings it up-to-date with the glossy patent leather and oversized square clasp.

Trendy good looks aside, we all know the flaws of wicker handbags. Easily broken, they require looking after. If you care enough, however, then the retro looks can last for a good amount of time. Simply make sure that you don’t overstuff them, as the inflexible wicker doesn’t take kindly to being battered and abused!

In an unusual design and color combination that is always on trend, Forzieri has really gone all out to make a wicker handbag that stands out from the crowd, even if it only stands out a little! Would you pay over $400 for it though?

More Features of this Forzieri Wicker Basket Bag

• Straw/wicker Exterior
• Fabric lined
• Patent handles and clasp

Get this Retro Straw Clutch:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More wicker bags on Bagbunch
• The Straw Clutch by Sondra Roberts, a great alternative to this funky bag
• Searching for wicker bags on eBay
• Other retro bags on eBay:

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It’s got a little name, but the Mia tote from Hype is big, bright, and bold!

This larger than life handbag has enough space inside to hold everything you need, and enough style to impress. The finish is billed as crocodile-embossed leather, but nobody is going to believe this is a genuine exotic. The tiny irregular squares appear more like a mosaic than crocodile scales, but perhaps that’s okay. This surface may not be a convincing croc, but it’s got its own charm that goes beyond mere imitation.

The drawstring adds a casual air, but it’s not a very effective closure. It’s fiddly to use, and contorts the bag into an overly puckered shape. With a zippered closure providing security back-up, I wonder why the drawstring was included at all!

Zippered pockets in the front add aesthetic and practical appeal. They’re deep enough for stashing everything you need at your fingertips. Another slip pocket in the rear provides even more storage space.

And that’s before we even get inside. The deep north-south shape is large enough to carry the things we need to survive the day, while a zippered pocket and three multifunctional slips help keep the clutter at bay.

The rolled shoulder straps are probably long enough for most girls to sling over their shoulder, but the removable longer strap provides a little extra versatility. It converts the tote to a cross-body bag, perfect for your daily commute.

With 11 different colors available, there’s literally one to suit everybody. Conservative tastes may gravitate towards black or smoke gray, while more daring divas may prefer tango orange or this Aztec blue.

More Features of This Hype Croc Embossed Tote

• Fully lined interior
• Dual shoulder straps with a 7 inch drop
• Measures 15 x 14 x 4 inches

Get this Hype Mia Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Hype Mia n/s tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Davis Jewelry and Gifts eBay store to see if this Hype bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Hype bags on BagBunch
• The Hype Mia ruffled clutch, a great alternative to this tote bag.
• Searching for more Hype bags on eBay