The Marc by Marc Jacobs line has been a little bit uneven this season. There have been a lot of logo print bags that I’m not that crazy for, but there have also been some very chic and understated offerings.

This bowling bag falls into the latter camp. It encapsulates the trends of the season with its shiny gold hardware and supple black leather, but it’s so timeless that you’ll be able to carry it right until it falls to pieces. I’m not trying to say that it will fall to pieces anytime soon, though, as it certainly seems sturdy enough!

Overall, it’s a pretty traditional design. It has the classic bowling bag shape, but without the colorblocking of most bowling bags. This gives it a less sporty look, which I prefer, and which makes it a little more reasonable for everyday use.

It also has these cute little pleats that add a little feminine twist to the structured style. And it also features a removable shoulder strap in case you get tired of carrying it by hand. Overall, this is a great, practical, versatile bag, and the price tag of $550 makes it seem more practical still.

More Features Of The Marc by Marc Jacobs Aiden Leather Bowling Bag

• 17″ x 14″ x 8″ size
• 10″ handle drop
• Zipper top
• Signature print lining

Get this Marc by Marc Jacobs Aiden Leather Bowling Bag:

• Available to buy at Net-A-Porter
  
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Marc Jacobs bags on BagBunch
  
• The Marc by Marc Jacobs Lage Salma Satchel, a great alternative to this bag
• Searching for more bags on eBay
• Other black leather bowling bags on eBay:
  [phpbay]black leather bowling bag, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

The Marina Bowler from Charles David combines chic styling with undeniable luxury.

Calf leather is all well and good, but if you want that totally touchable, buttery soft surface, it needs to be lambskin. A framed panel with contemporary diagonal pleats jazzes up this classic dome shaped bowler. What a shame we don’t see those same pleats on the bare and boring back!

You won’t notice from a distance, but the hardware is also worth another glance. Grooves are cut into the silver rings that attach the shoulder straps. I love this accent. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen before, yet it’s subtle enough to work with the sophisticated design.

Unzip the top to reveal the spacious ribbed grosgrain lined interior. The interior pockets are trimmed in leather, ensuring they stack up to everyday wear and tear. The base is also ready for everyday use. There are five metal feet ready to protect the sumptuously soft leather scuffs and scrapes.

The color palette is a little tame for my tastes, but it does make the Marina appropriate for the office. Choose yours in black, charcoal, burgundy, or this camel hue.

More Features of This Charles David Lambskin Bowler

• Dual shoulder straps with an 8 inch drop
• Measures 9 x 14 x 4 inches
• Made in China

Get this Charles David Marina Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Charles David bags on BagBunch
• The Charles David Marina clutch, a great alternative to this bowler bag.
• Searching for more Charles David bags on eBay
• Other Charles David bowlers on eBay:

[phpbay]Charles David bowler, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

I am generally a fan of Hayden-Harnett’s classic but contemporary style, but its new autumn/winter 09 handbag collection is definitely one to make you stop and take a look.

When the designer label’s e-mail newsletter popped up in my inbox with a subject regarding a brand-new bag for the fall, I knew I had to check it out. I was not disappointed either. The new Lilly shoulder bag has traditional elements, but its elongated body and very of-the-moment equestrian vibe mark it as relevant to today’s fashion.

It’s not the only standout in the fall/winter collection though. The new line, titled “Cargo Cult”, has an interesting mix of elements including tassels, as seen on the Lilly, unexpected shapes, patchwork hardware, and uniquely-placed studs.

According to Hayden-Harnett’s website, the collection can be described as “Drawing on the culture of magical thinking, religious rituals and practices of the cargo cults of remote pacific islands and the photography of Diane Arbus, the mood is dark, otherworldly, and quirky.”

To see what the brand means, check out more from the collection by peeking at Hayden-Harnett’s autumn/winter 09 lookbook.

[Source: Hayden-Harnett]

Hayden-Harnett Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]hayden-harnett, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

If you’re shopping for handbags in the under-$50 price range, chances are that you’re not expecting real leather. When we’re talking about exotic skins like python and crocodile, it’s a guarantee that the texture will be embossed or created.

That’s why it will probably be no surprise to anyone that this $42 clutch from Necessary Objects is entirely synthetic. What might be unexpected, though, is the amount of faux textures that this one little clutch contains.

I can pick out at least three separate embossed exotic skins on the Rocco Clutch. Snakeskins and croc take on individual roles each in their own color. This version of the clutch features the textures in two distinct colors of blue with dark brown trim. The blend of tones is appealing but also helps to bring together three different voices in the skins, which could otherwise be a disaster.

The handbag has an optional chain and synthetic strap that can be tucked inside when not in use. Personally, I dislike the shiny silver chain link next to the already busy surface of the clutch, but there are times when it would come in handy.

More Features of the Rocco Clutch

• Measures 12.5 x 6 x 2 inches
• Optional strap with 8 inch drop
• Front flap with magnetic closure
• Patent sheen

Get this Necessary Objects Rocco Bag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Check the Buy’s Internet Superstore to see if the pink/brown version of the bag is in stock
  
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More faux leather clutches on BagBunch
• The Prezzo Croco Wristlet, a great alternative to this synthetic exotic clutch.
• Searching for more Necessary Objects handbags on eBay
• Other snakeskin clutches on eBay:

[phpbay]snakeskin clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Marc Jacobs is known for dipping into yesteryear to find inspiration, but he always seems to make it look current.

This Cat bag has a distinctly throwback 1970s quality to it, but also resonates with the current craft-style fashion movement. The deep brown leather and patchwork-style cat applique are both crafty and cute, but not so precious that you couldn’t carry the bag and still feel like a grown up.

I love the shape of the bag. It reminds me of my childhood, and it always fits so nicely under the arm and against the body. I love the muted rich color palette; it’s perfect for fall, and a little bit refreshing in this season’s obsession with blacks and grays.

The price, at $450, isn’t bad, either. This is definitely worthwhile if you have a dedicated vintage sensibility.

More Features Of The Marc by Marc Jacobs Cat Leather Shoulder Bag

• 14″ x 9″ x 4″ size
• 7″ handle drop
• Fold-over top with zip fastening
• Paisely-lined interior

Get this Marc by Marc Jacobs Cat Leather Shoulder Bag:

• Available to buy at Net-A-Porter
  
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Marc Jacobs bags on BagBunch
  
• The Marc by Marc Jacobs Flights of Fancy Tote, a great alternative to this bag
• Searching for more bags on eBay
• Other patchwork leather purses on eBay:
  [phpbay]patchwork leather purse, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Polish brand Quazi is far from a household name, but they might just be propelled into the mainstream thanks to their recent collaboration with local beauty, Anja Rubik.

Anja isn’t only the star of the label’s sexy fall campaign, photographed by fellow countryman Artur Wesolowski. She’s also designed the collection’s bags and shoes!

If this ad is any indication, Anja’s soaked up plenty of design know-how from her years on the catwalk. This geometric cut-out clutch is very of-the-moment, and those black studded ankle boots are to die for. And let’s face it; accessories need to be sensational to draw attention away from the provocative Pole in her fishnet stockings!

The limited edition collection is currently available in Poland, but interest from major fashion centers worldwide might inspire a global release. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we’ll see these accessories, and others like it, in stores everywhere sooner rather than later.

[Source: View on Fashion]

Carlos Falchi takes a back to basics approach with this metallic leather clutch.

Fans of the brand may be a little disappointed with the traditional leather exterior. After all, Carlos Falchi is famous for working with lust-worthy skins like python, ostrich, and caiman crocodile. This calfskin has a subtle metallic sheen to add interest, but it’s never going to inspire the envy of an exotic. On the plus side, it’s not going to cost the earth either! While most Carlos Falchi bags cost thousands, this one is just $375. It’s still not small change, but it’s a lot more affordable.

The flap design is so simple. In fact, you might even call it boring. But while on-trend bags collect dust once the season ends, this is destined to become a wardrobe staple. And when you buy a brand like Carlos Falchi, you know its high-quality craftsmanship and materials are made to last.

It may be slender, but it’s a little larger than many clutches. You should find enough space inside to handle your cell phone, basic cosmetics, and other small essentials. There’s a zippered pocket too for keeping your loose change safe and secure. A delicate chain strap gives us another carrying option, and one you’ll appreciate at the end of a long night!

The creamy color may be the most versatile choice, but it’s also a little snoozeworthy. I’d dare to be different and opt for this fall-ready orange.

More Features of This Carlos Falchi Classic Clutch

• Hidden magnetic closure
• Floral print cotton lining
• A 33 inch chain strap with a 15 inch drop
• Measures 12.5 x 6 x 1 inches
• Comes with a sleeper bag
• Made in the USA

Get this Carlos Falchi Metallic Leather Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Carlos Falchi metallic leather clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Smart Bargains eBay store to see if this Carlos Falchi bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Carlos Falchi bags on BagBunch
• The Carlos Falchi clutch with contrast stitching, a great alternative to this plain bag.
• Searching for more Carlos Falchi bags on eBay

Yet another designer has made a social statement by stepping out in support of October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Tons of companies are getting in on the action and donating a portion of their profits to a charity or organization that works toward ending breast cancer or supports those who are currently battling it.

This time it is popular clutch designer Lauren Merkin showing her true colors (or rather just the color pink) by donating to the Young Survival Coalition, which works with cancer victims and survivors under 40. It’s not the first company to choose the organization either. Tarte Cosmetics is also running a promotion this month to raise financial assistance for the coalition.

Lauren Merkin’s contribution to the efforts also consists of a donation of proceeds. During October, 50% of the profits from sales of the designer’s fuchsia-colored tile embossed large wallet will go directly to YSC. The hot pink stylish, zippered wallet is for sale on Lauren Merkin’s website for $175.

[Source: Lauren Merkin]

Lauren Merkin Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]lauren merkin, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

This Jessica Simpson handbag design is a simple but interesting change of pace from a brand that can sometimes includes a few too many trends on one purse, in my opinion.

Granted, I have appreciated a few of Simpson’s recent releases, such as the Jimmy Satchel and the Runway Tote. Now this Downtown Tote can now go on my somewhat short list of Jessica Simpson successes. It isn’t the most stunning of handbag designs, but there’s a certain appeal to its shape and texture that makes it a little unique.

The tote definitely has a downtown feel with its contemporary quartet of square studs on both sides and slightly square silhouette. There’s just a hint of a slouch to the shape due to some soft pleating but not enough to give it a truly relaxed appearance. It’s a nice mix of slightly structured and a little casual.

The Downtown handbag is, of course, faux leather like most of Jessica Simspon’s purses. However, this one has a series of vertical lines or slashes that cover the material to add some visual interest and break up the synthetic look.

The double handles are rather short for the vertical shape of this tote and not exactly the most practical choice. Thankfully, the brand provided an optional longer strap for more convenience. As with other Jessica Simpson styles, I’m not entirely sure if this faux leather purse is worth its price tag, this one retailing for $118, but it does have some nice qualities that make it worth at least considering.

More Features of the Downtown Tote

• Measures 15 x 13.5 x 6 inches
• Double handles with 4.25 inch drop
• Zip closure
• Detachable strap

Get this Jessica Simpson Downtown Bag:

• Available to buy at Amazon
• Check the Buy’s Internet Superstore on eBay to see if this tote is still in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Jessica Simpson bags on BagBunch
• The Chocolate Larkspur Rose Tote, a great alternative to this synthetic pleated tote
• Searching for more Jessica Simpson totes on eBay
• Other faux leather totes on eBay:

[phpbay]faux leather tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

When most people think of Burberry, they automatically see plaid. But the Prorsum line is Burberry’s hip little sister, and this season she’s looking pretty good.

This suede and leather tote is an amazing away to carry all your stuff around. It’s so generously sized that you could fit everything from your laptop to a light jacket inside.

And you’d totally want to carry it everywhere, because boy is it a looker. The ultra soft suede with the cut outs is the perfect material for fall. I love the leather accents, especially the curved corner details. And the feet at the base will keep the fabric from getting too scuffed up from everyday wear and tear.

More Features Of The Burberry Prorsum Laser-Cut Suede Tote

• 19″ x 17″ x 8″ size
• 3″ handle drop
• Fully lined in signature check

Get this Burberry Prorsum Laser-Cut Suede Tote:

• Available to buy at Net-A-Porter
  
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Burberry bags on BagBunch
  
• The Burberry Prorsum Laser-Cut Suede Hobo, a great alternative to this bag
• Searching for more bags on eBay
• Other black suede and leather totes on eBay:
  [phpbay]black suede leather tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]