The resort collections have been going on for what seems like months, and we’ve been scouring the runways for the best bags and hottest trends for winter 09-10. Clutches are still big: literally and figuratively. The handheld bags that remain popular aren’t your typical cocktail party, fit-in-the-crook-of-your-arm fare. They’re a handful. The upside is that they fit handfuls of stuff like wallets and makeup bags that we once never dreamed of stuffing into a clutch.

The Sonia Rykiel Roped-Off Clutch is a great example of the silhouettes we’re seeing on runways in both clutches and shoulder bags. A sort of vintagy, squared-off shape is being shown often with large flap closures, prominent trim and oversize pockets.

The trim on the Roped-Off Clutch is, you guessed it, rope. This is actually a great trend to hop on during the summer if you don’t think “resort season” this winter is actually going to take you to sunny climes. Two front pockets add a sort of geometric aesthetic and are secured under the flap.

Other designers to feature squared-off clutches and bags for Resort ’10 include Proenza Schouler and Balenciaga.

[Source: Refinery29]

More Features Of The Sonia Rykiel Roped-Off Clutch

• Buckle closure
• Oversize silhouette
• Available for Resort ’10

Find Rope-Detail Handbags Now

• Buy the Dooney & Bourke Signature Rope Tote in Navy at Amazon
• Check out rope-detail handbags on eBay (see listings below)

[phpbay]rope handbag, 2, 63852, Paisley[/phpbay]

• Check the Bagsetc eBay store to see if rope-detail handbags are in stock
• Search online for rope-detail bags

You May Also Be Interested In

• More clutch handbags on BagBunch
• Sonia Rykiel handbags
• Search for Sonia Rykiel handbags on eBay
• Other resort collection bags on eBay

Azumi & David have combined every girl’s favorite fashion fetishes into one cute accessory with The Loop Handle Heel Bag.

The purse’s lower half resembles a sexy stiletto, with its heeled base. Yet up top it’s all handbag, with a gorgeous cowhide leather finish and distinctive flap design. I love the looped handle strap, which looks comfortable while adding character. But space is sure to be issue, with the shoe shape restricting what you can carry inside. At least there’s a zippered pocket inside for stashing your loose change and other valuables.

We know shoes look fab on your feet, but will they work as a purse? I’m not sure it’s the most practical choice, but The Loop Handle Heel Bag is sure to attract attention. If you’re after a statement bag, you could certainly do worse than this beauty. It retails for £200, and is available from the Azumi & David online store and London retail store.

[Source: InventorSpot]
[Image Source: Azumi & David website]

Shoe Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]shoe design, 3, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Mad Imports has put a twist on the traditional tote with the Bora Bora.

Gone is the traditional box shape, replaced by head-turning coils of raffia. A spiral makes up each side of the tote, and even the base! The totes are available in sedate neutral and brown shades, but the vibrant tones have a much sunnier feel. Choose from purple, yellow, pink, orange, or virtually any color you can imagine!

While the Bora Bora has a fun, distinctive look, it’s not the most practical purse around. The tote has no interior lining, so small items will easily fall out of the gaps. The open top design does offer easy access, but it’s yet another security risk.

But don’t dismiss it the Bora Bora altogether. Those vibrant colors and casual style make it the ideal tote for carrying your towel and swimsuit to the beach or pool!

More Features of This Mad Imports Raffia Bag

• Made in Madagascar
• Weighs 4 pounds

Get this Mad Imports Bora Bora Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Mad Imports Bora Bora, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Mad Imports bags on BagBunch
• The Maxx New York Bright Daisy bag, a great alternative to this raffia bag.
• Searching for more Mad Imports bags on eBay

Desperate Housewives costume designer, Cate Adair, has come up with a great and unusual funky clutch. This uniquely shaped purse is just the thing for swishing around at designer events and looking hugely fashionable!

I particularly wanted to bring your attention to the rather attention-seeking shape. Slightly nautical in design, it features elegant pointed corners and a curved line. The subtle and lovely crocodile quilting is gentle enough to keep all eyes on the shape, so the handbag doesn’t feel ignored!

Of course the shape means that you have a deceptive amount of space. With cute inner zipped pockets and a soft purple/lilac lining, this clutch is very much a classy and useful so-and-so. It’s elegant enough to wear to a sophisticated dinner or wild party, not to mention being a great little day bag for work or play.

The chain strap is, as always, bound to be slightly uncomfortable. It does look great, however, when contrasted with the padded quilting and the feature foldover clasp. Balance this little beauty on its supportive feet, and prepare to dance the night away around it!

More Features of this Cate Adair Designer Shaped Clutch

• Leather outer
• Lavender interior
• Single interior zip pocket
• Chain strap, long drop length
• Available in metallic gold or cream

Get this flirty croco clutch:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More quilted bags on Bagbunch
• The Sondra Roberts velvet box clutch – another uniquely shaped and fabulous clutch
• More quilted handbags on eBay:

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

If you’re feeling in the mood for some free-spirited fashion, you’ll love this Tolowa Shopper from The SAK. With a quirky mix of prints and a variety of details, this handbag is about as boho-chic as they get.

Just like the Dandelion Flap, the Tolowa includes a specially-made print by artist Gilles Jourdan on the front pocket. The two bags have completely different styles, though.

The Tolowa is full of hippie style with a combination of canvas and crochet. The woven band across the top of the tote is what really brings out the boho vibe, but the braided detail on the double handles definitely adds to the look as well.

Unlike many canvas bags, this one from The SAK has a bottom panel that makes it easy to set down, whenever that might be a necessity. Plus, in true bohemian spirit, the interior is lined in 100% recycled cotton. This Tolowa Shopper bag is priced at $69.

More Features of the Tolowa Shopper

• Measures 13 x 14 x 3.5 inches
• Double handles with 9 inch drop
• Top tie closure

Get this Roxy Tolowa Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More bags from The SAK on BagBunch
• The SAK Indio, an great alternative to this crochet-detailed bag
• Searching for more The SAK bags on eBay
• Other The SAK handbags on eBay:

[phpbay]the sak, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

It’s tough to find a handbag that’s stylish, affordable, and eco-friendly. But let me introduce you to this handwoven bamboo tote from Mad by Design, a purse that ticks all the boxes.

Black and natural toned bamboo is woven together to create this eye-catching purse. Thinking about it, I’m not sure why more bags don’t utilize this fantastic fiber. It’s eco-friendly, lightweight, and keeps the price down to a recession-friendly $48.95.

The bamboo body is complemented by round ebony handles. It won’t please girls who like to keep their hands free, but the smooth ebony feels like heaven when it’s held.

You wouldn’t know it at first glance, but this tote has a drawstring pouch inside. It’s a curious choice, but one that gives the purse a little originality. A snap tab offers a little extra security, while maintaining the tote’s structured shape.

Bamboo doesn’t tend to survive harsh treatment, so the metal feet on the base are a godsend. They ensure your Mad by Design tote will look pristine for years to come.

More Features of This Mad by Design Handwoven Tote

• 5-inch round handles
• Measures 13 x 9 x 4 inches

Get this Mad by Design Bamboo Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Mad by Design handwoven bamboo tote, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the eyecatchingstyles eBay store to see if this Mad by Design eco-friendly bag is in stock
• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Mad by Design bags on BagBunch
• The Mad by Design antiqued brown handwoven bamboo tote, a great alternative to this black and white bag.
• Searching for more Mad by Design bags on eBay

The Center for Environmental Health has filed a lawsuit against 16 top retailers, including H&M, Kohl’s, Macy’s, and Target. The non-profit group claims the stores sell purses and wallets containing unsafe levels of lead.

Most of the handbags in questions are crafted from vinyl and faux leather fabrics. They come from brands like Forever 21, Dana Buchman, Nine West, Aldo US, Liz & Co. and LuLu NYC. The suit claims the businesses have violated the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 by not warning shoppers of the risk of exposure.

Exposure to lead can cause cancer, reproductive damage, and birth defects.

“Lead exposures for pregnant women are of particular concern in light of evidence that even short-term lead exposures in utero may have long-term harmful effects,” the suit said.

Scientists say there is no safe exposure level for lead. I don’t know about you, but that’s enough to make me spend a little extra on those genuine leather purses!

[Source: San Francisco Chronicle]
[Image Source: Fa Snail/Stock.xchng]

Genuine Leather Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]genuine leather handbag, 3, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Add a little art deco style to your outfit with this Mystique clutch from Lovcat.

The geometric design contrasts coral pink patent with speckled silver metallic leather. The combination is feminine without being frothy. Yet if like so many girls you can’t stand to wear pink, it’s also available in a black and silver color combo.

The Mystique doesn’t try to overcomplicate things, allowing the leather to be the star of the show without other elements fighting for attention. A metal clasp up front proudly displays the Lovcat name, but it’s kept small so the design never appears cluttered.

The interior is so cleverly organized, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was a wallet. In fact, you could easily use the Mystique as just that, although it’d be a shame to hide it away in a handbag! Inside you’ll find 15 credit card slots, two storage slots in the side, two compartments for carrying your notes, and a clear window for your license or ID.

Considering its day to night versatility and high-quality design, the Mystique represents great value at $125.

More Features of Lovcat Art Deco Clutch

• Heart-shaped zipper pull
• Heart print lining
• Measures 7.5 x 1 x 4 inches
• Weighs 8 ounces

Get this Lovcat Mystique Purse:

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

[phpbay]Lovcat Mystique, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Buy’s Internet Superstore eBay store to see if this Lovcat Mystique bag is in stock
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Lovcat bags on BagBunch
• The Sharif vintage shoulder bag, a great alternative to this art deco bag.
• Searching for more Lovcat bags on eBay

Whiting & Davis have a special place in my heart. Their vintage inspired bags are so beautifully reminiscent of Victorian styles, jazzed up with contemporary touches. They are perhaps not the most well-known of vintage-type designers, but I think this duo should be near the top of any list.

This particular bag utilizes the brands expertise in metal mesh bodies. The extra something special comes from the bubble mesh, which rather than smooth flat metal consists of textured balls all connected. It’s a nice twist on a traditional theme!

Combine the stunning metalwork of the evening bag with the over-the-top clasp, and you have quite a special purse. The clasp itself is studded with light clear gems, giving the impression of gold contrasting with silver. Add in the luxury monogrammed golden satin interior, and it becomes really posh!

The perfect bag for black tie events and fancy nights out, the Whiting & Davis bubble mesh clutch is just spacious enough to be the perfect sidekick.

More Features of this Whiting & Davis Crystal Clutch

• Single interior pocket
• Gold bubble mesh exterior
• Crystal studded clasp
• Short chain handle

Get this vintage style mesh purse:

• Available to buy on Amazon
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Whiting & Davis handbags on Bagbunch
• The Hype Stardust clutch, a glam party alternative to this vintage beauty
• Searching for vintage mesh purses on eBay
• More Whiting & Davis bags on eBay:

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There’s a special place in my heart for bright yellow handbags. Something about the way they brighten up a wardrobe but somehow go with almost anything just makes me smile. It’s the perfect way to add a little pop to what you’re wearing.

This Roxy Over the Rainbow satchel isn’t the brightest of yellows, but I love the look of it anyway. Actually this more subtle version of the color probably appeals to a wider range of shoppers. It reminds me of Treesje’s modern-looking yellow on the Cypress or the Hendrix, something between sunshine and chartreuse.

One of the nice features on the Over the Rainbow handbag is the detachable strap that gives you another carrying option besides the top handles. When you attach the strap, the front folds down for a more compact style. The strap is also adjustable for even more options.

If you don’t share my appreciation for yellow handbags, you might like this Roxy satchel in one of the other colors: green, white, or royal blue. This convertible purse retails for $46.

More Features of the Over the Rainbow Satchel

• Measures 18 x 13.5 x 2 inches
• Detachable strap with 14.25 inch drop
• Vinyl and polyurethane material

Get this Roxy Over the Rainbow Bag:

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

[phpbay]roxy over the rainbow, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

You may also be interested in:

• More Roxy bags on BagBunch
• The Foley + Corinna Classic City Clutch, a designer alternative to this fold-over satchel
• Searching for more Roxy bags on eBay