Charles L Thomas has created a cute, casual handbag in the Melanie.

In the past we’ve looked at the designer’s smooth patent leather purses like the Cynthia Bowler and  Sandy Shoulder Bag. Here though Charles L Thomas employs soft buckskin to create a relaxed, slouchy look. This lush fabric is complemented by contrasting Italian leather accents. The only let-down for me is the drawstrings at the side. They don’t seem to serve any practical purpose, and their nautical look seems at odds with the rest of the design.

While I can’t figure out those ties, the rest of the Melanie is super functional. The main compartment is generous, and lined with high quality cotton. It’s doubly secure thanks to the magnetic flap and top zip. The extra safety measures are sure to please those with precious cargo, but I can also imagine it’d be a little frustrating when your cell phone is ringing. Thankfully there’s a zippered pocket on the back for storing those goodies you need in a hurry.

I love the neutral tones of this beige bag, but if that’s a little tame for you consider the Melanie in olive or black.

More Features of This Charles L Thomas Buckskin Bag

• A zippered pocket, slip pocket, cell phone pocket, and key ring strap inside
• Dual adjustable shoulder straps with a 12.5 inch drop
• Measures 16 x 13 x 7 inches

Get this Charles L Thomas Melanie Handbag:

• Available to buy at Amazon (limited stock)
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Charles L Thomas bags on BagBunch
• The olive Melanie bag, a great alternative to this beige bag.
• The Charles L Thomas website
• Other buckskin bags on eBay:

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One of the great things about the color navy is that it can go one of two ways in an outfit. You can pair it with unexpected colors for a modern look or keep things basic and opt for classic chic.

That’s exactly what I was thinking when I saw this navy La Regale clutch handbag. There’s nothing particularly contemporary about it except that the design is simple and unfussy. Accessorize a little black dress with it, though, and you’ve got a fashion forward look.

The pretty pleating on the front does lean toward the traditional, though, which makes it ideal for switching between different outfit styles. I wouldn’t call it completely original or one-of-a-kind, but you really can’t go wrong with a clutch like this one.

This La Regale bag has an optional shoulder strap, a common feature on most clutches these days. Here it’s thin, simple, and braided. The 24704 evening bag style comes in more than navy, too. You can also get it in coral and fuchsia, which are fun but maybe a little impractical. The black and champagne options are probably more versatile, like the navy. At the extremely affordable price of $28, you can probably afford to get one in every color you might need.

More Features of the 24704 Clutch

• Measures 7 x 4 x 1.5 inches
• Optional shoulder strap with 22.5 inch drop
• Front flap closure
• Interior slip pocket

Get this La Regale Navy Clutch Bag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More La Regale handbags on BagBunch
• The Anya Hindmarch Pleated Patent clutch, a more modern pleated alternative to this clutch
• Searching for more La Regale clutches on eBay
• Other La Regale bags on eBay:

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I do love Steve Madden. His footwear is iconic, and it is delightful to see that talent transfer directly over into the world of handbags.

This delicate little clutch is a particularly nice example. Available in four shades to match all styles, this pleated snakeskin handbag is delightfully subtle, whilst still boasting big features and trend-loving additions. Personally, the folded disruption of the smooth silhouette is quite lovely; it plays around with the traditional shape and makes your bag a little more special.

Of course, with a Steve Madden wristlet you don’t just get the one attractive characteristic. The pleats are accentuated with contrasting stitching, resembling the horizontal copper colored zip pocket. By combining the obligatory pockets into a totally on trend feature, this bag has jumped sky high in the fashion stakes. As always, the addition of a subtle snakeskin raises it even higher. Unfortunately the subtlety is lost in the darker colors, but in the gray it is particularly delicate.

The Ivy wristlet is just the thing if you want to experiment with a smaller bag without compromising on practicality. It is practically overflowing with pockets both inside and out, all trimmed in the same copper coloring.

The perfect purse for a busy city dweller, this Steve Madden is a surprisingly affordable clutch. Just don’t expect to be able to use all the pockets at once!

More Features of this Snakeskin Ivy Wristlet

• Synthetic leather
• Removable handle
• Ruched effect and feature stitching

Get this Steve Madden pleated clutch:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Steve Madden bags on Bagbunch
• The Betsey Johnson Frill Clutch – a decorative alternative to this snakeskin purse
• Searching for more Steve Madden wristlets on eBay
• Other Steven Madden handbags on eBay:

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Bulgari channels 1960s style with this adorable Rita shoulder bag. It’s exactly the kind of purse I can imagine swinging from the shoulder of a style icon like Jackie Onassis or Brigitte Bardot.

The crescent shape reminds me a little of a hobo bag, but it’s much more structured and chic here. The curves of the front flap mimic the body, creating one put-together purse. The powder blue leather is the star, offset with shiny silver hardware engraved with the iconic Bulgari name.

It’s large enough to carry everyday essentials, but not oversized by any stretch of the imagination. And why would it be? This is a bag that embraces its retro roots, emulating a time when a woman would never be weighed down by their purse. A zippered pocket and slip pouch give us safe places for stashing our smaller essentials.

Like so many Bulgari bags, the kicker here is the price. At $1450, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. It looks like we’ll be saving for some time to get our hands on this pale blue beauty.

More Features of This Bulgari Rita Bag

• Magnetic snap closure
• Leather lined interior
• A single 20.5 inch shoulder strap
• Measures 11 x 7.5 x 4.5 inches

Get this Bulgari Retro Handbag:

• Check the Bunches Store for the Fashionista eBay store to see if this Bulgari Rita bag is in stock
• Searching online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Bulgari bags on BagBunch
• The Lanvin Jeanne bag, a great alternative to this Bulgari bag.
• Searching for more Bulgari bags on eBay
• Other Bulgari bags on eBay:

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The Louisiana Art & Science Museum has a real treat for bagistas with their new exhibition, Sparkle and Elegance: The Handbags of Judith Leiber. The display runs in conjunction with the museum’s larger show, The Purse and the Person: A Century of Women’s Purses.

The sparkling pieces, including minaudieres in the shape of elephants, fish, cats, and camels, are from the private collection of one very stylish local.

“They’re truly works of art,” explained the exhibition’s curator Elizabeth Weinstein. “And some here are collectors’ edition … They’re all like little sculptures.”

Highlights include the 2003 lunar-themed Sweet Dreams, the 2001 Cherry Blossoms and Violin, and the show-stopping Vermail Chrysalis.

“And we have this one in the velvet box it originally came in,” gushed Ms Weinstein. “It’s like Tiffany jewelry. You immediately recognize that Tiffany blue. Well, you immediately recognize the black velvet of the Judith Leiber box.“

The exhibition runs until September 13.

[Source: 2TheAdvocate]
[Image Source: Judith Leiber]

Judith Leiber Minaudieres on eBay

[phpbay]Judith Leiber minaudiere, 3, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Treesje give the hobo bag a sleek makeover with the Hudson.

In fact, it’s hard to recognize the Hudson as a hobo at all. The traditional crescent shape is replaced by a boxier silhouette. The slouch we expect is missing, and so is the boho vibe. Instead the exterior is structured, with sophisticated diagonal pleats. I love the texture they create, adding interest to the conservative chocolate brown or black leather.

A long zippered pocket is much more than practical, with gold hardware popping against the dark leather. The same shiny metal is used for the buckles which hold the gorgeous braided strap in place. I’m not sure how comfortable the plaited leather would feel on your shoulder, but it really is beautiful.

Inside you’ll find the Hudson just as impressive. The space is generous yet usable thanks to the convenient wall pockets. Each is trimmed in leather for extra durability season after season.

The Hudson is a timeless hobo, and one that could easily make the tradition from daytime office bag to eye-catching evening purse. But that comes at a price. It’s not the four-figures we see from some high-end designer, but $635 isn’t exactly inexpensive either. If you’re looking for a bargain though, Endless is currently selling this chocolate brown bag for around half the price!

More Features of This Treesje Pleated Purse

• Magnetic closure
• Grosgrain fabric lining
• A braided shoulder strap with a 10 inch drop
• Measures 13 x 15 x 5 inches
• Comes with a dustbag
• Made in China

Get this Treesje Hudson Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Treesje Hudson, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Treesje bags on BagBunch
• The Valentino Maison tote bag, a great alternative to this pleated bag.
• Searching for more Treesje bags on eBay

Got an extra $157,000 lying around? I’m guessing that the answer is a definite no for most people, yet so many luxury labels keep offering up ridiculously expensive products for shoppers regardless of the knowledge that the industry is struggling. 

Well, at least Mulberry has gotten the idea of producing a moderately-priced handbag for budget-conscious gals. However, Bottega Veneta seems to be targeting a very small margin of the population with one of their items. The brand now has a luggage set that retails right around that oh-so-unattainable $157k range.

Each piece is finished in a rich brown alligator skin leather, which must be like lemon juice on a paper cut for PETA. The luxe six-piece set ranges in individual pricing from $23,500 to $47,500. With metal hardware and reinforced corners, this Bottega Veneta luggage seems very vintage, as if it came straight out of an old 1950s Cary Grant film like To Catch a Thief.

That seems appropriate since jewel thief is the kind of job title you’d need in order to afford this luggage. From the sturdy looks of it, you’ll need a slew of attendants to carry the set as well. It’s certainly not the most practical of purchases, but Bottega Veneta sure does know how to make a stylish bag.

[Source: Luxist]

Bottega Veneta Bags on eBay

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There’s something about this Roxy Layer Cake satchel that calls to mind The SAK Dandelion Flap, although the two bags are unique their own styles. The graphic prints on both, however, seem to have been hand-painted or drawn straight onto the exterior, which is a specific look but definitely an appealing one.

I’m attracted to the simplicity of the print on this Roxy satchel. The black-and-white combination with a pop of color on one flower is dramatic but not showy. It’s as if we’re supposed to notice and admire it because of its stark color combo but not get distracted by the fact that it has a large print.

The back of the handbag is as surprising as the front as it is entirely devoid of pattern. I suppose on days when the bag is ideal but your outfit calls for something plain, you could just turn it around to have the back showing forward. It sort of seems to defeat the purpose of buying the bag, though, since the print is the star of the show here.

The material is synthetic, but for an oversized satchel you can usually anticipate that when the price is set at only $82. The double handles have a small knotted tie at each anchor for a little decoration. It adds some whimsy and a carefree vibe, which I like.

For days when you’ve really got a lot to lug about, you can attach the longer adjustable strap and wear the Layer Cake satchel across the body. Whether you carry it around town or just on overnight trips, this oversized Roxy handbag will serve you well for style and convenience.

More Features of the Layer Cake Satchel

• Measures 21 x 15 x 4 inches
• Handles with 9 inch drop
• Zip top closure
• Detachable strap

Get this Roxy Layer Cake Satchel:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Roxy bags on BagBunch
• The Big Buddha Groupie Satchel, a non-floral alternative to this oversized satchel
• Searching for more Roxy bags on eBay
• Other Roxy Satchels on eBay:

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Yet another cute, kitsch and spacious handbag from funky designer line, Betseyville. Betsey Johnson uses her great sense of fun and enthusiasm to create the youthful and lighthearted purses in her eponymous fashion line.

Available in grey, duck-egg blue or white quilting, this tote is made into something a little special thanks to the cute star shaped quilting. In its large baguette-style shape, youngsters and teens will be able to carry around everything they need, whilst looking trendy with it.

The bright shiny chain handles and silver trim do give this bag a more teenage vibe. Somehow the funky colours and kitsch features give this impression, rather than that of a fun and fresh bag for adults. The sizing, therefore, is perfect, as this multi-pocketed and practical bag is just the right size and shape to carry all the school books she could need.

With a funky monogrammed interior in durable fabric, this Star Lite tote is just the thing for school after the summer. It’s a great, fun investment; just don’t expect it to be taken all that seriously!

More Features of this Betseyville Star Lite Tote

• 10 inch drop handles
• Twist lock closure
• Star shaped hardware
• Multiple interior pockets

Get this Betsey Johnson quilted tote:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Betsey Johnson bags on Bagbunch
• The Roxy Sammy tote – a serious eco-friendly alternative to this spacious hold-all
• Other Betsey Johnson handbags on eBay:

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Lipstick? … Check. Cell phone? … Check. Chihuahua? … ummm Check!

Did you ever think that one day we would be considering our pets a fashion accessory? Turns out that it has become normal in some circles to take your dog for a walk and the animal does no walking at all.

You don’t have to be strolling the red carpet to purse your miniature K-9 anymore. Apparently it’s now socially acceptable to walk just about anywhere and have glazed eyes, a long tounge and a fur covered head bobbing out of your handbag.

It may seem silly, but you are clearly making a statement when something that you are wearing happens to be a living breathing animal.

But what exactly is that statement? A bit of history can clue us in…

An Historic Pastime!

Oddly enough the practice of carrying your dog in a handbag goes back to Ancient Rome. Elite women would put their tiny Maltese’s in a sleeve when walking throughout the streets. Another name for the Maltese dog in Rome was ‘the Roman Ladies’ Dog’ and the breed became a physical symbol of loyalty.

Today the Maltese (that’s the small white fluffy one pictured right for those less aquainted with dog breeds) is still a popular ‘carry dog’ with women. Now you can see a Maltese hung round a hot girl’s waist while she goes for a power walk on the beach.

Another early ‘carry-dog’ was the Pekingese lapdog, bred in ancient China to fit inside the sleeves of a man’s robe. So it hasn’t always just been women that have an obsession with carrying around small dogs.

Through recent centuries a wider variety of ‘lap dogs‘ became popular among royalty and the rich. Nowadays there is a diverse range of small pooches that have become fashionable ‘handbag dogs’.

Today a dog in a bag still screams out loud that you have a financial status that compares to few. Who else could afford to risk destroying their handbag and all it’s contents with Poodle piddle, not to mentions the high costs to buy and maintain these animals?

Who would have thought that millions of years of evolution would see certain breeds of dogs in some weird symbiotic class-status relationship with humans. The fad of carrying a bow-wow under your arm has been here for centuries and isn’t going anywhere soon!

But is lugging a turd producing mutt around town really worth it? Let’s weigh up the options…
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