Grafitti Artist Zevs Turns Handbag Logos Into Art

Posted on: Jul 14

In the 90s, Zevs was one of the top graffiti artists in Paris. Today his work is shown at international galleries around the world. What a difference a few years make!

In his latest exhibition, Liquidated Logos, Zevs has taken some of fashion’s most iconic monograms and turned them into modern art. The recognizable signature prints of Louis Vuitton and Chanel are manipulated and cast on canvas, ceramics, and even metal. In this piece the colors of the famous LV logo run down the piece, almost as if they’ve been caught in the rain.

The eye-catching artworks will be on show at the Art Statements Gallery in Hong Kong from July 16.

But there’s some concern that Zevs may not make it to the grand opening. He was arrested yesterday after painting the Chanel logo on the exterior of Chater House, an office tower in central Hong Kong. Sure it’s great advertising for the show, but some might say it’s also going a little far!

[Source: View on Fashion]

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B. Makowsky Maui Hobo | Ruched Leather Handbag with Buckle Detail

Posted on: Jul 14

B.Makowsky’s handbags have taken us all over the globe, with exotic names like the Toulousse, St Tropez, and Jakarta. The Maui has the versatility and everyday style we’d expect from a purse inspired by the US of A.

Hobos are notoriously slouchy, but this one has more structure than most. It doesn’t lack softness though, with some subtle ruching around the front pocket and base making the most of the supple genuine leather. This feminine touch is complemented by the bold buckle, which adds a little vintage charm to this relaxed handbag.

The everyday styling of this purse is complemented by a cleverly designed interior. B. Makowsky makes the most of the hobo’s generous space, with both zip and slip pouches packed into the side walls. With some sedate colors outside, it’s also refreshing to see that daring leopard print lining.

Fans of the boho chic trend may be disappointed that this Maui hobo doesn’t quite toe the line. But when that hippie fad has faded, this is the kind of purse you’ll still want to carry.

More Features of This B. Makowsky Buckle Bag

  • Zip top closure
  • A single shoulder strap with an 11 inch drop
  • Measures 8.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches
  • Made in China
  • Available in black, stone, and goldenrod yellow

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Co-Founder of Dooney & Bourke Found Guilty of Conspiracy and Other Charges

Posted on: Jul 13

The fashion world is no stranger to scandal. Though the topic usually has something to do with tax evasion or other financial mischief, every so often we get something juicier.

The difference with this particular scandal is that, while it involves a fashion executive, it has nothing to do with the inner-workings of the company. A jury recently found Dooney & Bourke co-founder Frederic Bourke guilty of “conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the travel act and making false statements to federal law-enforcement officials.” 

These interesting charges have to do with a bribery scheme involving government officials in Azerbaijan, a small country near Iran. The case goes back quite awhile, though, as the scheme that Bourke was allegedly aware of took place in the late 1990s.

Somehow I think that this controversy isn’t going to permanently scar the reputation of D&B. In fact, I’ll bet that most fans of the label won’t even blink about this since we’re not talking about a creative director or well-known figurehead.

That’s good new for Dooney & Bourke. It might not help Frederic Bourke at all, but at least the company he co-founded won’t suffer for his mistakes.

[Source: Wall Street Journal]
[Image: Dramatic/Flickr]

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Hobo International Bonnie Shoulder Bag | Slouchy Leather Handbag with Frame Closure

Posted on: Jul 13

The name Bonnie means “pretty”, which is one adjective that comes to mind when I see this Hobo International shoulder bag with the name. The brand is an excellent choice for simple, classic styles just like this one.

One aspect about the Bonnie that draws my attention is its vintage-like quality of the clasp frame closure combined with the oh-so-trendy and slightly modern relaxed body. The clasp is a detail I’m used to seeing on Hobo International products, especially their wallets. But there’s something about the way its used here, contrasting with the soft pleats, that’s intriguing.

I can’t really call the framed closure a practical aspect since it does limit the opening of the handbag. You won’t be stuffing any large magazines into this purse, but we’ve always got the back-breaking oversized totes for those days.

The Bonnie is definitely meant for fashion before function, and it surely doesn’t lack in style. The shoulder bag’s subtly textured leather is lovely in this maple brown. If the color is a tad dull for you, though, you might opt for one of the more striking options like white, pink, or black.

More Features of the Bonnie Shoulder Bag

  • Measures 14 x 8 x 6 inches
  • Long double handles with 9 inch drop
  • Frame closure with clasp
  • Multiple interior pockets

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Ashley M Cadillac Bubbles Satchel | Metallic Textured Car Bag

Posted on: Jul 13

There’s rarely anything subtle about Ashley M, but I think the novelty designer may have gone a little far with the Cadillac Bubbles Satchel.

This metallic bag features the Cadillac marque up front, but the logo tends to get lost in the bubbled texture. It’s a curious mix really. The round bubbles seem a little cutesy to me; hardly the kind of finish that would appeal to your average car lover. At least the metallics aren’t too flashy. This silver shade is thankfully muted, while the gold is deep rather than brassy.

It’s a shame the details are so distracting, because this isn’t a bad satchel at all. The traditional barrel shape ensures you can carry all those daily must-haves inside, while zip and slip pockets on the side keep your smaller items organized.

I’m still not sure who Ashley M made this bag for, but I’m sure there’s a rev head with a taste for the flamboyant out there who’d love to call this satchel her own.

More Features of This Ashley M Metallic Satchel

  • Zip top entry
  • Fabric lined interior
  • Zip pocket, slide pocket, and cell phone slip inside
  • Silver hardware
  • Dual handles with a 5 inch drop
  • Measures 15.75 x 11.5 x 5.75 inches

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Paris Hilton Does Handbags

Posted on: Jul 13

She’s a reality TV star, a pop siren, and of course a socialite. Now Paris Hilton has added handbag designer to her resume, with the release of her new accessories line.

With her taste for Linea Pelle and JJ Winters, I suppose it’s no surprise that Paris has put her name to some purses. The biggest surprise is how ordinary these are. Forget the exotics; there’s not even a hint of genuine leather here. I suppose that’s a good thing for bargain hunters, but I had hoped for a little more of the luxury that is synonymous with the Hilton name.

Perhaps this is another example of a star simply adding their moniker to the brand, without putting in any of the leg work. I’m pretty sure Paris would never tote the handbags in her Beach 2009, Dubai 2009, or My Collection ranges.

I’m convinced that you’ll be as excited as I am!” Paris exclaims on the website. I’m sorry, but we’re not.

Paris’ next project is a collection of sunglasses. Hopefully they show more style than these lackluster purses.

[Source: Examiner.com]

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Anya Hindmarch Chapman Tote | Patent Leather Tan Day Bag

Posted on: Jul 13

Anya Hindmarch’s signature style is show with the Chapman Tote. It’s all urban and contemporary, with naplak patent leather and a splash of hardware delivering just the right amount of gloss.

It might be a shiny gem, but the Chapman is no show pony. The traditional tote shape is uncluttered, allowing the tan patent leather to take center stage. By keeping the color conservative, the Chapman doesn’t appear as flashy as many other patent purses. But if you really want to stand out, it’s also available in bright red and electric blue.

The canvas handles also help to give the Chapman an everyday vibe. The straps thread from the top of the tote to the base, mimicking the racing stripes popularized by brands like L.A.M.B. I’m sure the fabric would feel wonderful in your hands, especially when the Chapman’s loaded up. But unfortunately the straps are too short for most of us to sling over our shoulders. This is such a big bag, so it’s shame to miss out on this extra functionality.

Anya Hindmarch also lets us down inside. Again, it’s the size which isn’t backed up by the features. A single zippered pocket and a slip pouch really isn’t enough to organize this generous space. A pen slot and key ring are convenient touches, but I’m sure most of us would have preferred more practical pockets.

The Chapman has its limitations, but it’s got a distinctive look and plenty of space on its side.

More Features of This Anya Hindmarch Patent Purse

  • Zip top closure
  • Metal feet on the base
  • Logo lined interior
  • Dual handles with a 5.5 inch drop
  • Measures 14 x 17 x 5.5 inches

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Australians Love Oversized Handbags

Posted on: Jul 12

Oversized handbags are much more than a fashion accessory to Australian women; they’re a necessity.

A recent survey shows that purses are no longer simply carrying a wallet and keys. They’re also home to toothpaste, shaving cream, and other items. Almost 70% of the 1000 Aussies surveyed said they were carrying more in their handbags than ever before.

And women aren’t the only ones toting their totes. Man bags are gaining popularity, with around 83% of Aussie blokes regularly carrying one.

We don’t just need the bottle of water, we need the iPod, the mobile, the toiletries, everything,” social analyst David Chalke explained, adding that Aussies are becoming “urban nomads.”

They might be practical, but we’ve all heard of the health risks our oversized bags pose. Fashion fan Jessica Atterton says she tries to alternate bags to reduce the risks of stress and strain.

I swap them depending on what I have to do so I’m not carrying around a massive one all the time,” she said.

[Source: The Advertiser]
[Image Source: Ftzdomino/Flickr]

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Company Creates Handbags from Recycled Leather Jackets and Thrift Store Finds

Posted on: Jul 12

Forget seatbelts and candy wrappers. There’s a new kid in town when it comes to creating handbags from recycled materials. Hold on, though. This one might not be as creative as you’re expecting.

The company reMade USA has mastered the art of turning old leather items into bags. Well, it’s certainly not an unexpected source for a tote, but at least it fits right in with the eco-friendly fashion movement.

reMade USA takes old leather jackets and scrap materials from thrift stores and upholstery companies and works them into one-of-a-kind purses. I believe I like these “upcycled” totes better than others I’ve seen.

Sometimes Nahui Ollin’s designs are a tad too whimsical for my taste, and occasionally the Harvey’s selection just looks like a bag made of seatbelts. The reMade options, however, are quite chic. There are a few styles whose front pockets do resemble the leather jacket from which they originated, but it looks fairly natural since pockets are, after all, a regular handbag feature.

Click on the reMade USA website to see these unique creations.

[Source: Eco Salon]

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Botkier Rio Satchel | Edgy Patent Leather Handbag with Lots of Storage

Posted on: Jul 12

If you’re in the market for an edgy designer handbag, Botkier is the way to go. It’s certainly not the only brand to offer rock-and-roll style in luxury fashion. However, it’s at the top of my list for that particular blend, right along with popular label Treesje.

The Botkier Rio satchel is a prime example of why Botkier is one of the best. All of the handbag’s details blend effortlessly to create a stylish design with a surprising amount of practicality.

In the patent black cherry version, the Rio is tinged with deep red on its pocket edges, tassels, and zippers. Just the hint of rich color is enough to catch your eye but not overwhelm the bag. 

That’s not the only element to add edginess, though. The Rio’s abundance of zippers does more for the vibe of the bag than any other detail. However, they are more than decorative. The angled zippers that continue from the front to the back actually expand the sides of the satchel for more give you more space.

If that’s not enough of an unexpected convenience, Botkier also included a side flap pocket on either side of the bag. In any other color besides patent black cherry, the pockets might cause the bag to look a bit more like a diaper bag than a rockstar satchel. It’s hardly noticeable and definitely practical in the dark color, though. This large designer satchel retails for $495.

More Features of the Rio Satchel

  • Measures 17 x 9.5 x 6 inches
  • Double handles with 7 inch drop
  • Zip top closure
  • Side pockets
  • Side zipper expansion

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