Preview Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2009 Collection of Handbags | Exotics and Tweeds Galore

Posted on: Sep 16

When you think luxury handbags, Chanel is bound to be one of the brands that pops into mind. The fashion label is synonymous with timeless, must-have purses.

Although there are a few signature chain link straps to be seen here, a few of the detail might surprise Chanel lovers. Overall, though, the theme of cooler weather and winter fashion is fairly obvious with the styles from the colors to the choice of fabrics.

The most overtly fall fashion fabric in the bunch is tweed, and there seems to be a bit of it with this collection. The heavy material might be seasonally appropriate, but I’m not sure that the addition of a leather strap was the best choice. If I didn’t expect gold chain link from the brand, the leather detail probably wouldn’t be an issue. However, it just doesn’t shine as much as I’d like.

Of course, it’s not luxury designer fashion without some exotic materials. The fall/winter 09 bag collection also includes metallic lizard, quilted python, and pastel galuchat handbags. I’m impressed but not overwhelmed by the designs. However, Chanel is Chanel, after all, and nearly impossible to go wrong with.

[Source: That’s a Fabulous Handbag]

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Botkier Uma Satchel | Soft Leather Handbag with Ruching Detail

Posted on: Sep 16

I’m all about handbags with interesting details, and Botkier sure loves to produce them. This brand seems to enjoy including as many buckles, zippers, studs, and other features as possible without taking its styles to a tacky, overdesigned place.

Some might consider this Uma satchel a little overdone, but I happen to like what Botkier’s done with this one. Sure, the ruching detail is quite abundant on the Uma, but it certainly has a slouchy style all its own.

In addition to the ruched leather all around the bottom half of the handbag, there are also double buckled details on each handle anchor. Though they appear to be simply decorative, the buckles add a certain sense of structure to an otherwise completely relaxed silhouette.

Don’t think that Botkier would leave it at just buckles and ruching though. There’s also a zippered pocket on the exterior of the bag. It’s not completely obvious due to the folds on the leather, but it’s nonetheless practical for its existence. A detachable strap gives you a second carrying option along with the standard rolled leather handles.

More Features of the Uma Satchel

  • Measures 16 x 13 x 6 inches
  • Double handles with 4.5 inch drop
  • Zip closure
  • Detachable shoulder strap
  • Available in black or brown

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Marc by Marc Jacobs Magazine Clutch | Sleek Foldover Leather Clutch With Embossed Logos

Posted on: Sep 16

Marc by Marc Jacobs has a way of bringing style-setting trends into relative affordability. Sometimes, though, he simply brings his past successes back into the forefront, by reinvigorating them for new seasons. This clutch, for example, looks a whole lot like the iconic Dr. Q Magazine Clutch that fashionistas across the globe went crazy for just a few seasons ago.

Instead of the smooth leather of the Dr. Q, this Magazine clutch features the stamped Marc by Marc Jacobs imprint. To be truthful, I’m not sure whether this is an improvement. I like the texture of the bag, but I’m not really big on obvious logos. The color of the leather, however, makes up for it. The rich burnt orange is fabulous for fall.

The 15″ x 10″ size is great for day or night, and in this color, it will go with just about everything. The foldover style is modern and sleek but the details give it a distressed, almost bohemian edge. The goldtone logo plate is secured with a dark brown placket, and the combination brings interest to the center of the bag.

This Magazine clutch is sure to find as many followers as the last, and for good reason.

More Features Of The Marc by Marc Jacobs Magazine Clutch

  • Paisley print lining
  • Pleated pouch compartment under flap
  • Internal zipped and pouch compartments

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Harajuku Lovers Magic Overnighter Bag | Fun Large Sketched Travel Handbag

Posted on: Sep 16

Is Gwen Stefani’s line Harajuku Lovers growing up? While it may not say high-end fashion just yet, its new Magic Overnighter bag looks more mature than the designs we’ve seen in the past.

Cartoon pandas
and cutesy Harajuku girls are passed over for this edgy sketched design. The attitude-filled print shows Gwen and her crew in a modern anime style. The contemporary design is complemented by plaid patches and pinstriped trim. These accents bring a naughty schoolgirl vibe to this overnighter.

As it’s an overnighter, this isn’t the bag to rely on for an extended getaway. It might work as a weekender if you can travel light, but any vacations beyond that may be pushing it. If you can’t bear to leave it behind, consider using this overnighter as your carry-on baggage!

The handles are much shorter than I’d like, but the longer strap is ideal for running across an airport. It’s just the right length for carrying cross-body style, but as it’s adjustable it’s just as appropriate for over-the-shoulder toting.

This bold bag is a fun alternative to those boring suitcases we’ve carried for years. No matter what your destination, this Harajuku Lovers Overnighter is one cute travel companion.

More Features of This Harajuku Lovers Travel Bag

  • Washed canvas upper
  • Argyle print lining
  • Zipper closure
  • An interior zip pocket
  • Dual handles with a 4.5 inch drop
  • Measures 11.5 x 16 x 6 inches
  • Made in China

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Icelandic Label Unnurwear Makes Handbags from Fishy Sea Leather

Posted on: Sep 16

If you’re searching for a handbag that’s a little out of the ordinary, consider the chic purses from Icelandic label Unnurwear. The styling shows European sophistication, but the finish is something a little different.

Unnur means “the waves of the ocean” in Icelandic, so it’s not surprising to hear the brand’s accessories are crafted from sea-leather. That’s a delicate way of saying that the bags are made from fish.

But you don’t need to worry about suspicious fishy odors. Sea leather smells and wears just like traditional calfskin. The brand refuses to deplete the ocean’s natural resources with their creations, instead opting for farmed Icelandic salmon and African perch to craft its latest collection.

Unnurwear bags aren’t cheap, with most costing more than $1000. Yet compared to other big name designer brands, this doesn’t seem completely unreasonable for such unique luxury accessories.

Don’t worry if a trip to Iceland isn’t on your agenda. All purses are available online through the brand’s website.

[Source: InStyle]
[Image Source: Unnurwear]

Sea Leather Bags on eBay

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Halston Nightscatter XL City Tote | Large Urban Print Leather Purse

Posted on: Sep 16

Halston rarely puts a foot wrong, but this Nightscatter City Tote may have been a fashion misstep.

The patterns are simply too much. The black and white urban print clashes with the colored tie-dye accents, but not in a good way. Both patterns are loud and obnoxious, and pairing them amplifies the effect of both. You’d definitely need a neutral wardrobe when carrying this bag, and even then it won’t be appropriate for many occasions.

I might be able to overlook that garish exterior if this tote offered real practicality, but it lets us down there too. It’s an ample size, but not the largest tote I’ve seen. Yet the lone zippered pocket is still insufficient to organize this much room.

The best thing I can say about this bag is that I love the strap. With a drop of 15 inches, it’s much longer than most and bound to be more comfortable on your shoulder. But with a price tag of $2810.50, that’s not enough to convince me to lay my money down.

More Features of This Halston Urban Tote

  • Leather stitch trim
  • Measures 10 x 11.5 x 15 inches

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Jimmy Choo Prepares to Release Affordable H&M Men’s Line

Posted on: Sep 15


Tamara Mellon hasn’t forgotten about fashion conscious men when creating Jimmy Choo’s new collection for H&M.

The men’s collection features a great selection of man bags, including suede duffel bags, leather travel bags, and stamped leather wallets. There are also t-shirts and blazers, and additional accessories such as boots and studded belts.

We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too,” founder and president of Jimmy Choo, Tamara Mellon said. “Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection – the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!

While the designs are coolly masculine, they’d definitely work for no-nonsense girls looking for an androgynous look.

The collection will hit 200 H&M stores worldwide on November 14.

[Source: The Glamazon Diaries]

Man Bags on eBay

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Be&D Cosette Handbag Seen on “Gossip Girl” Episode | Joanna Garcia and Blake Lively Sport Pricey Hobo

Posted on: Sep 15

I’m no longer surprised to hear designer label spottings on the CW’s fashionable and racy teen drama Gossip Girl. The show is practically one big runway of designer handbags, clothes, and shoes. I’m not complaining one bit, though, and I can’t imagine any of the labels having something negative to say about it either.

Although I’m not a huge fan of the show or even a regular watcher, I do enjoy seeing stills of the filming and behind the scenes shots of the gals (and guys) in their designer duds. Who can help but envy the actors for their luxurious wardrobes?

One of the latest designer handbags to be spotted on the show is Be&D’s Cosette satchel. We actually saw a glimpse of this revitalized bag in a recent review of the brand’s fall 2009 collection. The fresh take on the bag is young, hip, and totally up Gossip Girl’s alley.

The Cosette has been seen on the television show’s set on the arms of both Blakey Lively (a.k.a. Serena van der Woodsen) and Joanna Garcia, a recent addition to the cast and rumored love interest of character Nate Archibald. Serena’s Cosette will be in green python, but I much prefer Joanna Garcia’s navy blue version.

[Source: California Style]
[Image: Purse Blog]

Be&D Handbags on eBay

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Whiting & Davis Art Nouveau Hobo | Colorful Floral Printed Brass Mesh Bag

Posted on: Sep 15

I usually think of Whiting & Davis as a go-to brand for classy formal clutches and minaudieres, and it certainly has its fair share of shimmery bags that fit those categories. However, this long-standing fashion brand also has a wonderful selection of hobo bags that simply refuse to be overlooked.

Just like their other clutches, wristlets, and various handbags, the Art Nouveau Hobo is made from Whiting & Davis’ signature brass mesh material. It’s not the kind of bag material I’d be content to carry around on a rainy day, but it certainly has personality in spades.

This hobo gets fashionable vintage appeal in a double dose. Not only does the mesh practically scream antique, but the floral screenprint hearkens to another era as well. It’s definitely not your stereotypical floral print but rather one in the style of art nouveau, as the name obviously suggests. The look is very unique and completely unexpected.

The Art Nouveau’s strap is a chunky gold-toned chain link, which isn’t terribly practical but does fit in well with the overall style of the hobo. Since this isn’t the type of purse you’d carry on a regular basis, however, I don’t see that as being much of an issue. Save this one for special occasions with outfits that call for spectacular accessories.

More Features of the Art Nouveau Hobo

  • Measures 14 x 8.5 x 4 inches
  • Chain strap with 8.5 inch drop
  • Zip top closure
  • Printed brass mesh material

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Valentino Leopard Print Goat Hair Bag | Fierce And Luxurious Animal Print Hobo

Posted on: Sep 15

When Valentino himself retired from designing his eponymous line, I was a little concerned. Who, after all, can replace an icon? The current designers, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, however worked under the man himself designing accessories, and their designs haven’t disrupted the continuity of his legacy, at least in terms of accessories.

This Leopard Print Goat Hair bag is pure Valentino: strong, feminine, luxurious, and totally timeless. Let’s be honest, if you’re the kind of woman who’s going to carry a leopard print goat skin bag, you always wil, trends be damned. Well congratulations, you’re probably a style icon too.

This hobo is completely to die for. Except the giant leather bow detail, which, frankly, I think detracts from the pure animal magnetism of the bag itself. But the bow’s only on one side, so you can just flip it around or have it removed. It isn’t a dealbreaker, as far as I’m concerned.

The slim taupe leather handles give the bag great asymmetry, and their color goes well with the overall print. The generous size ensures that it will make a great everyday bag, but I seriously doubt that you’ll be abandoning it for evening. Another bonus is the use of goat skin, which has all the luxurious texture of other stiff furs, without the over-the-top price tag.

Not that this bag is cheap. It’s a designer bag at a designer price ($2,695), but well worth it for the amount of attention that it will draw.

More Features Of The Valentino Leopard Print Goat Hair Bag

  • Magnetic fold over tab closure
  • Interior pouch and zipper pockets
  • Designer embossed plaque at back
  • Fully lined

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