Luxury handbag label Coach has filed a lawsuit against Target, alleging that the retail giant has infringed upon its intellectual copyright.

In a lawsuit lodged at the United States District Court in Manhattan last Thursday, Coach claims Target is selling handbags “confusingly similar” to its Ergo and Signature Patchwork collections.

“Target is not authorized by Coach to manufacture, distribute, advertise, offer for sale and/or sell merchandise bearing the Ergo designs or the Signature Patchwork designs,” the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit includes claims of trademark infringement and unfair competition.

Target is pleading ignorance on this one, with a spokeswoman claiming “We are currently looking into this situation and working with our vendor partner.

“It always has been – and continues to be – Target’s policy to respect the intellectual property rights of others.”

It’ll be interesting to see how this case goes. We’ve seen the luxury labels take down many small brands creating obvious counterfeits, but a firm with the might of Target may be another story.

[Source: Wall Street Journal]
[Image Source: Shoshanah/Wikipedia Commons]

Coach Ergo Bags on eBay

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The Lady Dior line may grab all the headlines, but for something a little different I’d opt for this Karenina Tote.

The lush aged lambskin falls in intricate pleats down the length of the bag. The leather is lovely, but that super-ruched appearance is sure to divide fashion fans. I suppose no one gets noticed without taking risks, right? At least Christian Dior keeps the branding to a minimum, with “CD” letter charms providing the only bit of bling. They still make the bag look a little cluttered for my tastes, so thankfully they’re removable.

The head-turning design combines with the large interior to create a bag ready to transition from day to night. If only all that space was utilized. There’s a large zippered envelope in the center, but I worry about the security of the open compartments either side. There are slip pockets for gadgets but, without clasps or closures to keep them safe, would you trust them with your cell? The natural impulse is to stuff everything inside the zippered pouch, which is a great shame. There’s no point offering extra storage space if no one feels comfortable using it.

The handles are another practical drawback. Those short, rolled handles are very cute, but their appeal is sure to wear off when you’ve been lugging a full Karenina around the city for hours. A longer shoulder strap may have undermined the looks, but I’d be willing to sacrifice that style for comfort.

This framed tote has already become a favourite with style pioneers like Christina Aguilera, Denise Richards, and Sienna Miller. And at $2,450, they might be the only ones that can afford it!

More Features of This Christian Dior Ruched Tote Bag

• Silver-toned hardware
• Protective feet on the base
• Dual top handles with a 3.5 inch drop
• Measures 14.5 x 13 x 7 inches
• Made in Italy
• Also available in ruby

Get this Christian Dior Karenina Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Christian Dior Karenina, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the RC FIFTH AVENUE eBay store to see if this Christian Dior bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Christian Dior bags on BagBunch
• The Botkier Stevie bag, a great alternative to this ruched bag.
• Searching for more Christian Dior bags on eBay

Budget-conscious brand Aldo has been working with YouthAIDS for the past several years for an education initiative which aims to educate young people and prevent them from becoming infected with HIV. That close partnership is continuing with a new project.

The initiative, called Aldo Fights Aids, has released a trio of limited edition reusable tote bags for its 2009 campaign. The bags were designed by the Aldo team and “inspired by the notion of unity and the desire to help.” The drawings on the totes were inspired by the three chapters of Vivian Ralickas’ short story Our Last Adventure: In Memory of Martha. The chapters and the totes are named “Getting Lost,” “In the City,” and “Jukebox.”

These three bags each have a price tag of $10 and are for sale on Aldo’s website and in stores. All of the proceeds from the sales will go to YouthAIDS.

“For every tote bag sold, Aldo and YouthAIDS will be able to provide one young person with the information and tools they need to protect themselves from HIV for up to six months,” said YouthAIDS Founder Kate Roberts.

[Source: Style List]

Aldo Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]aldo, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Sometimes I think that Matt & Nat handbags are more impressive when you them in person rather than in photos, but this is one case where the purse stands out nicely in a photograph as well.

The Werner Japanese Paper Tote features Matt & Nat’s signature crinkled manmade leather texture. Although some people might say that the brown is basic, it really brings out the nuances of the handbag’s texture where it might otherwise be lost with a bolder or brighter color. Plus, the cognac color is not exactly what I’d call a run-of-the-mill brown. It’s a rich, vibrant hue that catches the eye but wouldn’t clash with much.

The tote has a nice a-line silhouette that typically provides a decent amount of storage space inside. The Werner is no exception to that. Its slightly flared sides and significant depth allow for tons of the kinds of things that women tend to stuff in their handbags. The size and shape of the bag isn’t exactly user-friendly for the petite, but it’s just fine for the average fashionista.

With its spacious interior, I would’ve liked to see a tad more organizational pockets inside or outside, but there’s an acceptable amount present with one large zippered pocket on the outside and one on the inside. The interior is lined in Matt & Nat’s famous faux suede made from recycled plastic bottles. The craftsmanship and attention to detail on the Werner is impeccable and what I’d expect from the brand. This is definitely one case where a faux leather tote is worth its price of $225.

More Features of the Werner Japanese Paper Tote

• Measures 18 x 13.5 x 6 inches
• Double straps with 8 inch drop
• Magnetic snap closure
• Signature logo plate

Get this Matt & Nat Werner Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Matt & Nat bags on BagBunch
• The Zed Tote, a great alternative to this vegan-friendly Japanese Paper tote.
• Searching for more Matt & Nat Japanese Paper bags on eBay
• Other Matt & Nat bags on eBay:

[phpbay]matt nat, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Sister act Leona and Hasna Erziak are generating some major buzz with their Lena Erziak handbags. The purses have already found their way into the pages of Lucky, Life and Style, and People magazines.

The secret to the label’s rapid rise is an old fashioned formula of handcrafted Italian accessories made from high quality materials. Lena Erziak bags are available in python, ostrich, buffalo, lambskin, and traditional leather.

Of course, those exotic skins never come cheaply, but Lena Erziak bags are surprisingly affordable. Purses from the summer 2010 collection start at $455 for the elegant Jepetto evening bag, and range up to $1115 for this large Alessandro tote bag in python. That’s not exactly chump change, but it seems a steal for a handcrafted exotic purse.

Of course, there’s always a catch. Right now Lena Erziak bags are only available at Stella Filante at 156 Ludlow Street, New York City. Next time you’re in the Big Apple it might be worth bypassing the big name designer handbags on Madison Avenue for these lesser known beauties!

[Source: Lena Erziak]

Authentic Python Tote Bags on eBay

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Some say that chocolate is a girl’s best friend, so it’s no surprise that the accessories brand which shares the name of the sweet treat has made a bag so girly! The Sophia Shoulder Bag is fun, feminine, and frilly!

A traditional shoulder bag shape is dressed up with a ruffled appliqué across the top. The twirls and curls of synthetic fabric looks a little like flowers, which only ups the girly appeal. This pale pink bag is the logical choice for feminine fillies. But the white bag downplays the obvious girlish nature of the Sophia, creating a look that’s a little more modern and versatile.

Whichever you pick, you’ll be impressed with all the carrying space inside. There’s plenty of room for daily essentials, and a few luxuries besides. The zippered pocket and two multifunctional slips work to keep the clutter at bay.

While the design is impressive, the quality is less so. Some may argue that you get what you pay for, and that $93 doesn’t buy much. But I’ve seen synthetics which imitate leather much better, and linings less stiff, for this kind of money.

More Features of This Chocolate Ruffled Shoulder Bag

• Zip top closure
• Dual shoulder straps with a 6.5 inch drop
• Measures 9.5 x 16 x 5.5 inches
• Made in China

Get this Chocolate Sophia Handbag:

• Available to buy at Endless (limited stock in pink)
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chocolate bags on BagBunch
• The Whiting & Davis Leather Flowers bag, a great alternative to this shoulder bag.
• The Chocolate website
• Other ruffled bags on eBay:

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No one expects genuine exotics for under $100. But if you hope to enjoy the look at a budget friendly price, this python-like hobo from Chinese Laundry is a decent option.

The traditional slouchy hobo shape is jazzed up by the snakeskin print, which is embossed on the polyurethane body. This blue shade is a lovely evergreen option, ideal for pairing with denims at any time of the year. It’s interesting that there are none of the blacks, whites, and browns we’ve come to expect, but gray and mustard should be tame enough to please conservative tastes.

This generously-sized purse is fitted out with a zippered pocket and a couple of multifunctional slips. One can take care of your cell phone, while another is large enough to suit an MP3 player or small digital camera.

The handle is quite long, so I’m not sure why we’d need the removable shoulder strap. It’s especially confusing since the fabric finish clashes with the snakeskin body. I’d simply unclip it for a more unified look.

More Features of This Chinese Laundry Snake Embossed Hobo

• Zip top closure
• Fabric lined interior
• A single shoulder strap with an 11 inch drop
• Measures 20 x 12 x 6 inches
• Retails for $83

Get this Chinese Laundry Python-Like Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon
• Check The Bag Shop eBay store to see if this Chinese Laundry bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Chinese Laundry bags on BagBunch
• The Rampage Modern Drawstring bag, a great alternative to this snake embossed bag.
• Searching for more Chinese Laundry bags on eBay
• Other snakeskin hobos on eBay:

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Canvas handbags might be on their way out for the new season, but tribal details aren’t going anywhere. This Steven by Steve Madden Uptown Tribal Bucket Hobo has both features, which might not be the best option for the fall but is still a cute option for a wardrobe.

There’s nothing overtly summery about this bucket hobo expect perhaps the material. Although canvas isn’t exclusively a spring and summer fabric, it does tend to make its way into the fashion of those seasons more than fall and winter. This Steven by Steve Madden use of the fabric is sort of in between, in my opinion, and not distinctly appropriate for merely one time of year.

The ethnic-themed print on the canvas is definitely on trend with its abstract tribal influence. The leather trim adds to the effect with whipstitched details along the edges and a braided detail on the handle.

I’m not sure that the purple magenta version or the black-and-white option have the same tribal vibe as this olive and brown combination. The earthy colors are, by far, the best choice for this type of style.

As a bucket hobo, the Uptown Tribal has plenty of room for every woman’s purse essentials with an interior zippered pocket for small things. The magnetic closure isn’t as secure as a zip top, but it does make for easy access into the purse.

More Features of the Uptown Tribal Bucket Hobo

• Measures 19 x 14.5 x 6 inches
• Single strap with 8 inch drop
• Magnetic closure
• Whipstitch detail

Get this Steven by Steve Madden Bucket Hobo:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Steve Madden bags on BagBunch
• The L.A.M.B. Love Candela Soft Bucket Bag, a great alternative to this bucket hobo.
• Searching for more Steve Madden hobos on eBay
• Other Steve Madden bags on eBay:

[phpbay]steve madden, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

The Hills star Stephanie Pratt, the younger sister of Spencer, has become one of Hollywood’s most popular style icons. But have you ever wondered what’s inside her lustworthy accessories? Us Magazine recently lifted the lid, asking Stephanie what five items she always keeps inside her favourite Miu Miu studded leather purse.

Stephanie’s love of designer labels is as evident inside her purse as it is out. She carries a Balenciaga wallet, which is always stuffed full of cards and cash. Then there are the Marc by Marc Jacobs sunglasses for beating the Los Angeles glare. Then there are dozens of lip glosses and miniature scents from Jacobs and Stella McCartney because “you never know what boy you’re going to meet” and you “have to smell good.” I guess it pays to be prepared! Stephanie’s final must-have item is her Blackberry for Tweeting on the go.

Stephanie loves her handbags so much, she’s begun to design her own. Three of the purses she carries in the current season of The Hills are Stephanie Pratt originals. Tune in to The Hills on MTV on Tuesday nights to see them for yourself!

[Source: Us Magazine]
[Image Source: 2009 MTV Networks]

Miu Miu Bags on eBay

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

While recently flipping through my fresh-from-the-mailbox edition of Lucky magazine, I was excited to find a section about a new fashion collaboration between the brains behind the magazine and the budget-conscious folks at HSN.

Lucky enlisted the help of seven fabulous designers to create exclusive but affordable pieces for a special capsule collection. From jewelry to clothing and handbags, this group of fashion geniuses put together several great outfits.

The list of designers includes Rebecca Taylor, Shoshanna, Tracy Reese, Helen Ficalora, Gerard Yosca, and familiar bag names Rebecca Minkoff and Abbe Held from Kooba. The handbags from Minkoff and Kooba are all stylish, unique, and exactly what I’d expect from the two brands with a mix of croco-embossed leather, studs, and patent material.

The items will be available only through HSN and at Lucky’s signature shopping party Lucky Shops in New York City on November 6 and 7. The Lucky Shops: Designer Event is scheduled to air on HSN on October 16 from 8-10 pm (ET) and on October 17 from 8-10 am (ET).

All of the designers will be at the HSN airing along with Lucky’s senior editor discussing their items, inspiration, and styling tips.

[Source: HSN]

Rebecca Minkoff Handbags on eBay

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