Become.com has launched a comprehensive handbag guide, which serves up advice on latest bag trends, purse styles, and even handbag health.

It can be tough to stay abreast of the latest fashions, but this guide helps to break down the fads. It says shoulder bags follow the maxim that bigger is better, but warns against buying one that’s too large for your body type. It also helps us find the right hobo, encouraging us to snap up a small black slouch bag for parties and a larger colorful hobo for day-to-day toting.

The guide speaks in easy-to-understand language, which will suit beginner bagistas down to the ground. Serious fashion fans may find the articles a little too basic for their tastes, particularly the pieces discussing the benefits of clutch bags and messengers. But they do provide a more accessible alternative to a glossy fashion mag.

I also appreciate the lack of brand name references. So many style guides feel like advertorials, encouraging us to buy the latest and most expensive name brand bag to fit in. It’s refreshing to find an article which merely describes the features to look for, rather than pointing us to specific high-end items.

It may not suit every fashion fan, but if you’re trying to get a handle on your personal style Become.com’s Handbag Tip Center is worth a look.

[Source: Become.com]
[Image Source: Ben Schumin/Wikipedia Commons]

New Shoulder Bags on eBay

[phpbay]new shoulder bag, 3, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Cross-body bags tend to be big and bulky affairs. There’s convenience in that oversized approach, but not a lot of style. Elliott Lucca delivers a daintier option with the Trieste.

This is one smooth operator, with its inverted pleat design and chic braided strap. The textured leather is incredibly soft, and surprisingly considering the $98 price tag, the real deal. I guess by keeping the size down, Elliott Lucca could afford to give us the genuine article! The poppy red is a real show-stopper, while this boysenberry bag is so dark it could easily pass as a neutral.

The dimensions are closer to a small clutch than a cross-body bag, so it won’t suit everybody. There’s a long zippered pocket for change, which I’d use instead of taking my wallet. That frees up the main compartment for carrying your cell phone, keys, and a tube of gloss. A zip top keeps the essentials in place, leaving you free to get on with your day.

The Trieste refuses to follow the trend for oversized bags, which is what makes it such an intriguing option! This is an affordable and stylish purse for those who don’t want to follow the pack.

More Features of This Elliott Lucca Leather Cross-Body Bag

• Brass hardware
• Canvas lined interior
• A single shoulder strap with a 23 inch drop
• Measures 5.5 x 5.5 inches

Get this Elliott Lucca Trieste Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited quantities)
• Check the Momma’s Styles n Steals eBay store to see if this Elliott Lucca bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Elliott Lucca bags on BagBunch
• The Elliott Lucca Trieste tote bag, a great alternative to this cross-body bag.
• Searching for more Elliott Lucca bags on eBay
• Other Elliott Lucca Trieste bags on eBay (see listings below):

[phpbay]Elliott Lucca Trieste, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

We’ve all heard of the clever Avelle site (originally known as Bag Borrow or Steal) that lends out designer goods for a pretty penny, but there are plenty of other websites out there to help a budget fashionista keep to her financial goals without sacrificing style.

Now there’s a new kid in town ready to relieve shoppers of their designer items and sell them online for consignment. CovetShop.com is a rather brilliant, though not totally original, business model that guarantees 100% authenticity as well as the nearly perfect condition of the items they consign. The online shop even reminds me of Net-A-Porter with its simple look and easy-to-navigate site.

If you’ve got a few Jimmy Choos, Louis Vuitton bags, and Chloe designs lying around that you’d like to get some cash for, you might consider Covet Shop’s consign online program. It’s a basic process where you they authenticate, photograph, and post your item to sell. There are subsequent markdowns on each item after 30 and 60 days. Once sold, however, the company will pay you 60% of the final selling price.

If you’re in New York City, you can simply contact Covet Shop for an appointment to discuss your designer bags, shoes, clothing, or accessories. If not in NYC, those wishing to consign can just e-mail the company with their information. Be sure to read Covet Shop’s full description of their consignment process.

Send in those past designs just gathering dust on the shelf to get some cash to upgrade for the new season.

[Source: Covet Shop]

Designer Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]designer, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Sometimes I just have to laugh at Betsey Johnson’s quirky but fun handbag names like Party Hearty and Made In The Fade. I’ll admit that I was expecting something completely different when I ran across the name of this Whips & Studs Clutch, but the actual handbag turned out to be even better than I had imagined.

Although I’m sure I’m not the only one who can envision a bedazzled and tassel-covered creation from the designer, this Whips & Studs purse earns its name from one lone, yet rather large, tassel with a simple stud-like detail around the top which hangs from the zipper pull. Just admit that if you hadn’t already seen the image of it you’d be picturing something a little more rock-and-roll inspired.

The simple studded detail around the tassel mirrors the intricate diamond-shaped quilted pattern on the leather, or perhaps it’s the other way around. Either way, the two features, studs and quilting, complement each other beautifully.

This clutch would probably fit right in with the oversized category since it’s larger than many others, but it’s not enormous and bulky like some styles. While quilted leather might not have been what I’d expect from a purse with the name Whips & Studs, this Betsey Johnson design is effortlessly chic and would be a perfect semi-casual accessory for a wardrobe. It just begs for an outfit with subtle edginess like skinny jeans with studded heels or jewelry.

More Features of the Whips & Studs Clutch

• Measures 11 x 8 x 1.5 inches
• Zip top closure
• Large tassel zipper pull
• Interior zipper and cell phone pockets

Get this Betsey Johnson Whips & Studs Bag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (available in black or red)
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Betsey Johnson bags on BagBunch
• The Hobo International Lauren Clutch, a great alternative to this quilted leather clutch.
• Searching for more Betsey Johnson clutches on eBay
• Other Betsey Johnson handbags on eBay:

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I’ve always found Elie Tahari’s designs a little hit or miss. When the label aims to emulate trends, the bags are often overdone and overworked. But when Elie Tahari takes a back-to-basics approach, as with this Neve satchel, the purses ooze quality and style.

There’s nothing particularly revolutionary about the Neve, but that’s what makes it so appealing. A classic black bag is the kind of wardrobe staple which suits any occasion, and any season. The butter-soft leather falls in a soft slouch, creating a contemporary, relaxed silhouette. Gold-toned hardware adds a touch of class, contrasting with the dark calfskin.

Three zips on top open to reveal three entirely separate compartments. These generous sections feature plenty of pockets, including handy zippered pouches and a cell phone slip. The satiny pink lining adds a touch of femininity to this fairly conservative bag.

The snake-embossed handles are too short to be practical, but they do bring an exotic touch to this minimalist satchel. If only Elie Tahari had added just a few inches. Something tells me we won’t care about the look after a day lugging the Neve about!

More Features of This Elie Tahari Black Leather Satchel

• Protective metal feet on base
• Dual handles with a 5 inch drop
• Measures 12.5 x 9.75 x 7 inches
• Comes with a dustbag

Get this Elie Tahari Neve Handbag:

• Available to buy at Bloomingdale’s
• Check the Tika’s Coach Collection eBay store to see if this Elie Tahari bag in cognac or purple is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Elie Tahari bags on BagBunch
• The Givenchy Military bag, a great alternative to this black bag.
• Searching for more Elie Tahari bags on eBay
• Other Elie Tahari satchels on eBay (see listings below):

[phpbay]Elie Tahari satchel, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Master jeweler Tom Binns has announced he’s broadening his horizons and turning his attentions to handbag design.

Tom’s luxury leather accessories line will debut in spring. While many of the details are being kept under wraps, apparently one white leather handbag will feature on-trend metal studs. We’ll also be able to grab Tom Binns’ purses in three sizes, so perhaps we can expect a mix of small evening and larger day bags. The prices aren’t so bad either, with the handbags retailing between $650 and $1850.

But that’s not all that’s on Tom’s plate. He’ll also release a soccer-themed collection with Puma. The release of the sporty jewelry and bags will coincide with the World Cup. He’s also teamed up with Corto Moltedo to create a limited-edition crucifix-embellished “Sunday” handbag. Yet he still found time to create a collection of wearable sculptures, which we’ll see at the Art Basel Miami in December.

They say that there’s no rest for the wicked, so Tom Binns must be a very naughty boy!

[Source: FabSugar]
[Image Source: Fangleman/Flickr]

Tom Binns Jewelry on eBay

[phpbay]Tom Binns, 3, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Devi Kroell is the undisputed queen of the exotic. Her designs may not please PETA, but they’re a favorite amongst fashion fans. It’s not very politically correct, but it’s hard to resist the charms of this Roman handbag.

The slouchy shape and casual styling is fairly traditional and tame. That allows the shiny snakeskin to take center stage. Each bag is painted by hand to ensure the colors are vibrant and long lasting. I love the rich, royal appearance of purple python, but it’s not for everyone. Thankfully the Roman is available in a range of colors in both python and eelskin.

We’ve also got some choices with the sizing. This large purse is on-trend, and ideal for making the transition from day to night. But if you’re looking for something smaller, or less expensive, the Roman is also available in medium.

Girls downsizing don’t miss out on the practical perks. Both sizes feature python leather cell pockets and iPod pouches. I’d appreciate a few more compartments, but when a bag looks so lovely I’m willing to forgive its shortcomings.

The bottom line is the price. Given that it’s genuine hand-painted python leather, I know you’re not expecting it to be cheap. $2,790 will never be considered small change, but it’s not as daunting as I’d imagined!

More Features of This Devi Kroell Python Purse

• A hidden magnetic closure
• Dual shoulder straps
• Measures 23 x 13 inches
• Made in Italy

Get this Devi Kroell Roman Handbag:

• Available to buy at Devi Kroell
• Check The Designer Insider eBay store to see if this Devi Kroell bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Devi Kroell bags on BagBunch
• The Jimmy Choo Ayse bag, a great alternative to this python bag.
• Searching for more Devi Kroell bags on eBay
• Other Devi Kroell python bags on eBay:

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I’m guessing that most of us handbag-loving gals are fans of Rebecca Minkoff’s easy, stylish fashion and uber-desirable handbag collection. It’s just the minor detail of the designer price tags that keep some of us from owning one of our very own.

Well, the fashion lovers over at Fashionista.com are granting one lucky winner’s wish of owning a Minkoff original. For their “Fall Fresh Contest,” the website is giving away an adorable Beloved Mini handbag in black courtesy of the industry insiders at DesignerSocial.com, an exclusive shopping community with amazing deals.

To nab this cute Rebecca Minkoff design, all you have to do is send your friends a link about Fashionista’s weekly “Off the Cuff” newsletter via the website’s handy form. You chances of winning the prize are increased with each friend who responds by signing up. Be sure to read the fine print first, though, at the official sweepstakes rules page. The contest will run until October 31 and is open to residents of the U.S.

[Source: Fashionista]

Rebecca Minkoff Handbags on eBay

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I’m a little thrown off by the name of this Melie Bianco handbag. In a list of other style choices like the Franny, Ramona, and the descriptive Croco Envelope Bag, this technical sounding S9-96 Shoulder Bag seems a little out of place. However, the design is synonymous with the brand’s classic and often designer-inspired look.

There aren’t many frills on this shoulder bag, but the simple details make it something worth considering. Pretty contrast stitching around the entire handbag accentuates the shape and adds a little visual interest. I’m not always a fan of light stitching against a darker background or vice versa, but it’s a nice touch on the S9-96.

The classic tote shape has been ramped up a bit with panels of gathered fabric on the front and bag of the purse. It’s no shock that the material is not real leather since this shoulder bag only retails for $90, but the trendy lilac purple is enough of a stand-out to make up for the faux fabric. The fun satin polka dot lining, a signature twist from Melie Bianco, adds a little extra personality to the S9-96.

More Features of the S9-96 Shoulder Bag

• Measures 14.5 x 10.5 x 5 inches
• Double straps with 7.5 inch drop
• Sunken zipper closure
• Faux leather

Get this Melie Bianco S9-96 Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Melie Bianco bags on BagBunch
• The Jessica Simpson Downtown Tote, a great alternative to this faux leather tote.
• Searching for more Melie Bianco shoulder bags on eBay
• Other Melie Bianco bags on eBay:

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Cole Haan tends to serve up reserved, work-ready accessories in traditional neutrals like black, brown, or beige. But with the Biscayne Tote, the brand shows us it knows how to have fun.

From a distance the tote looks like woven wicker, but the effect is actually embroidered. Red, orange, pink, and purple rectangles come together to create a mosaic-like design. It could easily become busy with all those different hues, but by keeping the palette complementary the combination is cheerful and fun.

You’ll buy the Biscayne for the look, but love it for the features. A zippered envelope separates the interior into three convenient sections. The same patent leather which forms the base trims the pockets inside. This gives them extra strength, and extra style. I only wish Cole Haan had thought to include a magnetic closure. The open top style may be convenient, but it’s not very safe.

All those colors might put off Cole Haan’s conservative fans, but the Biscayne just might win over some new ones. If these pretty warm tones don’t suit you, consider the marine toned blue and green tote.

More Features of This Cole Haan Embroidered Tote

• Made of canvas trimmed with patent leather
• Gold-toned hardware
• Jaquard lining
• A zippered pocket and two slip pockets inside
• Dual rolled cotton webbing shoulder straps with an 8 inch drop
• Measures 11 x 18 x 6 inches
• Made in China
• Comes with a dust bag

Get this Cole Haan Biscayne Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Cole Haan Biscayne tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Designersnewcollection eBay store to see if this Cole Haan bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Cole Haan bags on BagBunch
• The Biscayne hobo bag, a great alternative to this tote bag.
• Searching for more Cole Haan bags on eBay