I generally believe grown women should steer clear of handbags that pay homage to cartoon characters. However this Hello Kitty satchel from Loungefly has encouraged me to change my tune.

I still believe my rule holds true the majority of the time, but this satchel is much subtler than most featuring animated heroes. The Sanrio cat’s face is subtly embossed onto the black synthetic, while her signature bows create a pattern resembling traditional diamond quilting. It’s such a clever design which pays tribute to fashion’s traditions in a really playful way. The oversized pink bow hangtag is overkill, but it’s easily removed.

The black color is low-key and sophisticated, and personally my pick of these satchels. It just appears a bit more grown-up than the purple version.

This is a mid-sized satchel, with enough space for everything you need and the pockets to match it. The rolled handles are too short to be truly practical, but they suit this satchel’s retro feel.

My inner fashion snob wishes Loungefly employed authentic leather rather than PVC. The manmade material is a bit thin and too shiny to really impress. However for just $62.50 bargain hunters will probably feel the compromise is worthwhile.

More Features of This Loungefly Embossed City Bag

• Zip closure
• Fully lined interior
• Measures 13.5 x 9.5 x 8 inches
• Comes with a dust bag

Get this Loungefly Hello Kitty Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Loungefly Hello Kitty City Bag, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Brandnameshoes13 eBay store to see if this Loungefly bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Hello Kitty bags on BagBunch
• The Hello Kitty Embossed Bowler bag, a great alternative to this Hello Kitty bag.
• Searching for more Loungefly on eBay

I’ve always considered Jessica Simpson a fashion follower rather than a design innovator. Her handbags are nice enough, but they generally seem like affordable alternatives for recessionistas rather than serious fashion contenders. However the pop star’s Fontana Satchel has forced me to change my tune.

It’s not the prettiest satchel on the block, but its unique design is still likely to turn a few heads. Its unusual gathered body is paired with vintage style wooden handles. These might be a bit awkward to use if the Fontana is packed full, but as they’re polished smooth they should feel good in our hands. And if the satchel is packed to capacity, we can always attach the cross-body strap.

While Jessica Simpson has taken an uncharacteristically daring approach to the Fonatana’s exterior, inside this satchel is pretty standard stuff. While its lining it a bit thin, as the ones in Jessica Simpson bags tend to be, its array of pockets are just what we need to keep this space in order.

Any bag costing less than $100 represents value, but that goes double when it makes a style statement as strong as this Jessica Simpson satchel.

More Features of This Jessica Simpson Wooden Handle Satchel

• Magnetic closure
• An exterior rear zip pocket
• Measures 5 x 15 x 9 inches

Get this Jessica Simpson Fonatana Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Jessica Simpson Fonatana, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the eBags eBay store to see if this Jessica Simpson bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Jessica Simpson bags on BagBunch
• The orange Jessica Simpson Fonatana bag, a great alternative to this black bag.
• Searching for more Jessica Simpson bags on eBay

Ecogear have added new Dually backpacks, especially created for kids, to its sustainable accessories line.

All Dually backpacks are crafted entirely from natural, water-resistant cotton. The fabric is then colored with non-toxic dyes. The material is complemented by recycled plastic components. Its straps are padded to protect young shoulders, and they’re perfectly proportioned for tiny bodies. I also really like the insulated cooler compartment built into the front pocket, which should keep snacks and drinks cool at school or the playground.

The colors and prints are very clearly designed to appeal to common gender lines, which may disappoint more liberal parents. That old pink is for girls and blue is for boys notion is a bit tired, yet here we see solid pink and blue, and patterns with pink bears and blue dinosaurs. At least the blue and pink aren’t those sickly sweet shades that adorn baby clothes. Even so, some more colors that aren’t so gender divisive would really widen the Dually backpacks appeal.

If you’ve fallen for the Dually backpacks I’d snap one up quickly. They’re currently priced at just $19 for an introductory period. I’m not sure how expensive they’ll be once that time’s lapsed, but I wouldn’t wait around to find out! They’re available now from the Ecogear website.

[Source: Inhabitots]

Kids Backpacks on eBay

[phpbay]kids backpack, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

I’ve got a confession to make. I’ve finally found a Guess purse I really like. Meet the label’s Confession Envelope Clutch.

The Confession works because Guess hasn’t tried to reinvent the wheel. At its heart this is a very traditional envelope purse, with a large angled flap and rectangular shape. But Guess has shaken things up a bit with some youthful colors and textures.

I remember the old adage that blue and green should never be seen unless there’s something in between. However when I look at the Confession, I wonder why so many designers stick to that silly rule. By taking the path less traveled Guess has ensured the Confession’s colors pop. I love the way the blue trim emphasizes the clutch’s envelope design, and even the way it contrasts with that pretty sea green.

The python embossing isn’t merely an aesthetic tool here; it’s actually a clever design ploy. While matte synthetics tend to look shiny and cheap, this textured one appears much richer. It’ll never pass for the real thing, but for a mere $68 we’d hardly expect it to!

The Confession is the kind of purse that would look great with jeans or the right evening ensemble, which makes its bargain price seem even more affordable!

More Features of This Guess Python Embossed Clutch

• Magnetic snap closure
• Gold-toned hardware
• Zippered pocket inside
• Printed fabric lining
• A wrist loop
• Measures 13.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches

Get this Guess Confession Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Guess Confession envelope clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Brands Castle 1 eBay store to see if this Guess bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More Guess bags on BagBunch
• The pink Guess Confession envelope clutch bag, a great alternative to this green bag.
• Searching for more Guess bags on eBay

Brian Burkhardt didn’t just win the Lifetime TV reality series Project Accessory; he also took out the all important Kenneth Cole challenge in episode six. As a result Burkhardt’s capsule collection is currently available in selected Kenneth Cole stores.

Burkhardt, a jewelry designer by trade, was inspired by the mythical unicorn. He crafted the creature’s twisted horn from resin, and used the feature to decorate his clutch purse and lariat style necklace. The pendant costs $48 while the clutch is a bit pricier at $300. While they weren’t shown on the reality program, Burkhardt also created a belt and twisted cuff for the small capsule collection.

The line isn’t merely about showcasing the talents of this promising new designer. It’s also an altruistic endeavor. All net profits from the line’s sales will benefit AWEARNESS, The Kenneth Cole Foundation’s fundraising efforts for amfAR. This organization is dedicated to AIDS research, HIV prevention, and educating the community about these diseases.

The Brian Burkhardt for Kenneth Cole items are available in Kenneth Cole stores in New York and Miami, the hometowns of both designers. If you don’t live near any of these cities don’t worry; you can also find them at Kenneth Cole’s website.

[Source: Accessories Magazine]
[Image Source: Canadieren]

Kenneth Cole Clutches on eBay

[phpbay]Kenneth Cole clutch, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Get high class looks for less with this Mia Shoulder Bag from Danielle Nicole.

The Mia seems to be inspired by a classic envelope purse, but it’s much more modern than this traditional style tends to be. Its soft gray body is offset beautifully by bold navy piping and trim. That material is polyurethane rather than real leather, but its delicate grain makes it a convincing mimic. The manmade skin also sees the Mia priced at an affordable $91.45, which makes the compromise seem worthwhile.

The Mia’s structured body reminds me a bit of a briefcase, and just like this office staple I don’t think it’d look out of place in a boardroom or at an important business luncheon. However, its retro flair gives it the right personality for after-work cocktails or a dinner date after quitting time.

The briefcase style top handle looks the part, but it’s not very practical. Happily though, Danielle Nicole also provides a cross-body strap. This doesn’t seem quite as authentic, but you’ll be glad for it when you’re out and about.

At less than $100, the Mia is a great buy for bargain hunters attracted to style and substance.

More Features of This Danielle Nicole Conservative Shoulder Bag

• Flap lock closure
• Gold-toned hardware
• An exterior slit pocket in the back
• A zippered pocket and two patch pockets inside
• A top handle with a 1.25 inch drop
• A cross-body strap with a 16-inch drop
• Measures 12 x 8.5 x 3 inches

Get this Danielle Nicole Mia Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Danielle Nicole Mia shoulder, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Trend Essentials Inc. eBay store to see if this Danielle Nicole bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More shoulder bags on BagBunch
• The Fendi Chameleon shoulder bag bag, a great alternative to this retro bag.
• Searching for more Danielle Nicole bags on eBay

Any girl who loves jewelry can tell you the impact that well crafted gold makes. Diane von Furstenberg uses the gleaming metal to brilliant effect with this Tonda clutch.

Small holes are laser-cut into the Tonda’s etched golden shell. These perforations allow the pale cowhide underneath to peek through. The layered effect is dramatic and daring, although with its classic structured shape it shouldn’t dominate an outfit. Instead it should complement a gorgeous evening gown without detracting from it.

The Tonda doesn’t have a lot of features, but it has everything we can hope to expect in an evening purse. Its rectangular closure doesn’t just look smart; it also keeps our evening essentials safe. The golden chain gives us a hands-free carrying option, and its detachable too so it needn’t clutter the interior when it’s not in use.

I was already smitten, but the Tonda’s price only increases my ardor. At $425 it’s not exactly cheap, but it costs a lot less than I’d expect to pay for such a striking designer purse.

More Features of This Diane von Furstenberg Laser-Cut Clutch

• Fully lined interior
• An interior patch pocket
• A chain strap with a 20 inch drop
• Measures 3.5 x 8 x 2.5 inches

Get this Diane von Furstenberg Tonda Handbag:

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

You may also be interested in:

• More Diane von Furstenberg bags on BagBunch
• The Whiting & Davis Paris minaudiere bag, a great alternative to this gold metal bag.
• Searching for more Diane von Furstenberg bags on eBay
• Other Diane von Furstenberg Tonda bags on eBay:

[phpbay]Diane von Furstenberg Tonda, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

Stefano Pilati’s fall/winter 2012-2013 collection will be his last for Yves Saint Laurent. The creative director is stepping down from his post after eight years with the company.

Pilati has been integral in rebuilding and repositioning the fashion house as a luxury force to be reckoned with. Under his guidance the firm has become a leading high end label and influencer of global trends.

He will show his final Yves Saint Laurent womenswear collection, the fall/winter line, on March 5 as part of Paris Fashion Week. It seems like he’s split amicably, with many key YSL figures thanking Pilati for his years of service and wishing him well in his future endeavors.

Yves Saint Laurent says it will name his successor in the coming weeks, so hopefully that will mean we’ll avoid the drawn out goings on of Christian Dior. The rumor mill suggests Hedi Slimane, who led Yves Saint Laurent’s design team during the mid-90s, may return to the fold. However Yves Saint Laurent and its parent company PPR are refusing to comment, and are unlikely to do so until the Paris show is over.

Who would you like to see succeeding Stefano Pilati as Yves Saint Laurent’s creative director?

[Source: Fashionista]
[Image Source: Infratec/Wikipedia Commons]

Yves Saint Laurent Handbags on eBay

[phpbay]Yves Saint Laurent, 2, 63852, “”[/phpbay]

The Modena sounds good on paper, but sadly this is just another lacklustre hobo from Lola Bernard.

I’m not entirely sure where Lola Bernard went wrong here. She’s used real leather rather than that cheap synthetic stuff. She’s also added some crocodile-esque embossing to make the skin feel even more luxurious. But it still doesn’t manage to inspire any handbag envy.

The coffee color doesn’t really help its cause. This brown hue is easy to incorporate into any wardrobe, no matter what the season, but it’s also really uninspired. The black handle also doesn’t look quite right, almost as if Lola Bernard ran out of the coffee leather and had to use whatever was left around her studio!

And while I appreciate the sentiment, the crocodile embossing doesn’t rev me. Its scales are so big and unsightly, not at all like the ones we see on the real reptiles. I don’t expect a carbon copy of the genuine article, but embossed leather should mimic its inspiration better than this.

At $325 the Modena is affordable, especially considering its versatile styling. But its flaws make me hesitate, no matter what its price.

More Features of This Lola Bernard Crocodile Embossed Hobo

• Made of cowhide
• Measures 18 x 15 x 7 inches
• Comes with a dustbag

Get this Lola Bernard Modena Handbag:

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

[phpbay]Lola Bernard Modena, 2, “”, “”[/phpbay]

• Check the Lulus Dragonfly’s Designs eBay store to see if this Lola Bernard bag is in stock
• Search online for this bag

You may also be interested in:

• More hobo bags on BagBunch
• The Jessica Simpson Naomi hobo bag, a great alternative to this croc-embossed bag.
• Searching for more Lola Bernard bags on eBay

Homewares king Jonathan Adler is adding clutch purses and handbags to his stylish collection.

The accessories are designed to complement Adler’s home décor range. How appealing to own a handbag that looks good in your bedroom or lounge room once you walk in the door at the end of a hard day!

The accessories range, which features totes and clutches decorated with Adler’s whimsical prints, will hit stores in spring. He promises “a more substantial style” will join these purses in the fall.

The spring Jonathan Adler bags are affordably priced between $38 and $250. We’ll have to wait and see whether the “more substantial style” promised for fall will also come with a more substantial price tag.

Adler was inspired to expand his line after several customer comments that his pillows or vases could make great accessories. I’m sure these handbags will be make more practical carry bags than the decorative items!

I’ve only seen a few images but they’ve been a bit hit and miss for me. I love the vibrant geometric print on this simply shaped black tote, but I’m less enthused by the snake pattern I spotted on one of the clutches.

Are you excited to see Jonathan Adler making the move into accessories design?

[Source: Styleite]