Kate Moss Models for Mango | Supermodel Fronts Spring/Summer 2012 Advertisements

Posted on: Feb 24

Kate Moss for MangoAgeless supermodel Kate Moss is the face of Mango’s spring/summer 2012 advertising campaign.

We generally associate Moss with more luxurious labels than the Spanish brand, but the British beauty looks lovely here. Perhaps she was persuaded to take the gig as acclaimed photographer Terry Richardson was behind the lens.

He certainly brought out the best in Miss Moss, but I’m not sure he’s done justice to the casual messenger bag she’s carrying. The monochromatic effect disguises the handbag’s finer features, making it appear like a great big black blob. The shoes and shift dress come off looking good, but as an exercise in selling a handbag it fails.

Mango said it looked to Kate Moss “because she is a world-famous fashion icon, making her one of the most sought-after models in the fashion world.

It’s a bit disappointing that it seems she was hired for her status rather than her appropriateness for the brand, but there’s no denying she’ll draw eyeballs to the campaign.

Kate Moss follows in the footsteps of other notable Mango models including Penelope Cruz, Olivia Palermo, Claudia Schiffer, and the most recent face, Scarlett Johansson. Do you think she’s a good fit for the Spanish fashion label?

[Source: Fashionista]

Mango Bags on eBay

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Alexander Wang Rocco Satchel | Bone Leather Handbag with Studded Base

Posted on: Feb 24

Alexander Wang Rocco SatchelAlexander Wang marries style and substance with this Rocco satchel.

It’s unusual to find a bag whose image comes from a feature so functional. The etched studs which cover the base are really striking, but they also work for us. The bone colored leather base would be prone to stains if they weren’t protecting it.

The base might stay pristine, but I worry about the rest of this satchel. Its bone colored leather looks so striking now, but such a pale skin is bound to get grubby after some wear. Some stains are inevitable, but you can hold them at bay by keeping your hands clean and being careful about where you set the Rocco down.

It’s strange that Alexander Wang calls the Rocco a mini satchel, because by modern standards it’s very roomy. You should have space inside for carrying everything you need and a few things you don’t! The array of interior pockets ensures all that room doesn’t overwhelm us.

It might not look this good for long, but at least it’s relatively affordable by designer standards. At $875 I suggest enjoying this purse while you can!

More Features of This Alexander Wang Studded Satchel

  • Rhodium hardware
  • Fully lined interior
  • Zip top closure
  • A detachable and adjustable shoulder strap
  • Measures 10 x 13 x 10 inches

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Raf Simons Quits Jil Sander | Is He Christian Dior Bound?

Posted on: Feb 24

Jil Sander Store Scooters

Raf Simons has stepped down as creative director of Jil Sander following six years of service to the brand. Tomorrow’s fall 2012 fashion show in London will be his last for the label.

In a statement Jil Sander said she’ll announce Simons’ replacement in the coming days, but Germany’s Gala Magazine has speculated she’ll return to the business she founded in 1968. It wouldn’t be the first time she’s returned to the fold. She resigned in 2000 after tension with Patrizio Bertelli, the chief executive officer of Prada, one of Jil Sander’s major stakeholders at the time. She returned in 2003, designed two critically acclaimed lines, but then took off again after disputes with Bertelli continued. Prada sold its stake in Jil Sander to Change Capital Partners in 2006, so with Bertelli gone perhaps the time is right for Jil Sander to assume control of her nakesake label once again.

Just as uncertain is what will become of Raf Simons. His name was one of the many suggested to fill John Galliano’s shoes, so some fashion forecasters have predicted appointment at Christian Dior is inevitable.

It would make sense, but I think we’re at the point now that anyone who leaves their fashion post could become a candidate to defer to Christian Dior. Some twelve months after Galliano’s fall from grace, isn’t it about time the fashion house filled the position and put us out of our misery?

[Source: Fashionista]
[Image Source: JohnnieXu/Flickr]

Jil Sander Bags on eBay

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Brahmin Debi Clutch | Blue Crocodile Embossed Leather Wristlet Purse

Posted on: Feb 24

Brahmin Debi WristletAn exotic finish helps make this simple Debi Clutch from Brahmin something special.

Brahmin’s created one of the most convincing crocodile embossed skins I’ve seen. The rich scaly texture would probably fool even the biggest exotic fans, at least until they saw the Debi’s price tag. A purse made from real crocodile skin would cost us several hundred dollars, but this one is just $95.

Brahmin lets the skin be the star by keeping the Debi’s shape very simple. The reptilian leather is available in six different colors, from mellow pearl to this pretty bluebell hue. Traditionalists and more daring fashionistas alike should be satisfied by the variety of shades on offer.

Inside the Debi feels more like a wallet than a clutch. There are six slots for cards, another six slip pockets, and a zippered pouch for loose change. But unlike many wallet-style clutches, we actually have space for holding more than money. While it’s not large, you should be able to sneak your cell phone and keys inside it.

The Debi could definitely work as a wallet, but it’d be a shame to hide this exotic purse away. Use the short strap and carry it as a wristlet during the day, or detach the loop and use it as a clutch in the evening. Either way, you’ll get your money’s worth from this petite Brahmin purse!

More Features of This Brahmin Crocodile Embossed Wristlet

  • Bi-fold style with snap closure
  • Measures 3.5 x 6 x 1 inches

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Tory Burch Channing Tote | Overpriced Striped Canvas Handbag

Posted on: Feb 23

Tory Burch Channing ToteTory Burch gets us ready for summer with this striped Channing Tote.

Tory Burch doesn’t reinvent the wheel here, but she’s got all the classic elements needed to make a great summer tote. She’s opted for canvas rather than her usual leather, which makes it very hardy and lightweight. Brown leather accents help dress up the striped fabric body.

I wish Tory Burch had used more of that leather on the handles, rather than the thick rope she’s employed though. The natural fiber enhances the Channing’s nautical vibe, but it feels harsh on bare hands. And as the handles are so short, holding them in our palms is really our only option. That’s disappointing for a bag so large, as it could get weighty if we take advantage of all that space.

At least Tory Burch has equipped the Channing with a few functional features. All too often canvas totes are minimalist to the point of being unmanageable, but not this one. With a pair of slip pockets and a zippered pouch, we should be able to keep our items in order whether we’re on the beach or pounding the pavement.

Practical features aren’t enough to justify the Channing’s ridiculous price though. Designers really have no business charging any more than $100 for canvas purses. At $250, it seems we’re paying for Tory Burch’s name rather than her tote.

More Features of This Tory Burch Striped Tote

  • Magnetic snap closure
  • Chain links at the base of straps
  • Khaki fabric lining
  • Measures 15 x 13 x 6 inches

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Banana Republic’s New Mad Men Collection | Janie Bryant Designs More Retro Bags & Apparel

Posted on: Feb 23

Banana Republic Mad Men ClutchAs the premiere of Mad Men season five looms, the advertising agency drama’s costume designer Janie Bryant is getting us into the spirit early with another line for Banana Republic.

David Gandy and Shalom Harlow do their best Don and Betty Draper in Banana Republic’s Mad Men advertisements. The models show off the range’s retro styled capri pants, tailored blazers, shrunken cardigans, feminine dresses, and chic handbags. The last line launched in August 2011, so it had a suitably wintery feel. This time around the apparel and accessories reflect the warmer weather ahead with a brighter color palette of hot pinks, creams, and contrasting navy blues.

Janie Bryant has done really well to make these apparel and accessory items so wearable. They pay tribute to the sixties but they don’t look like fashion throwbacks. So many vintage inspired garments take things a step too far and don’t appear relevant in the 21st century, but not these fashion goodies.

Banana Republic’s latest Mad Men range hits its website and boutiques on March 1, ahead of the long awaited premiere of Mad Men season five on March 25.

Are you excited that Janie Bryant is on board for another Mad Men inspired Banana Republic collection?

[Source: Fashionista]

Banana Republic Mad Men Bags on eBay

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Melie Bianco Edith Shoulder Bag | Small Top Handled Framed Purse

Posted on: Feb 23

Melie Bianco Edith Shoulder BagIf you took a classic top-handled satchel and shrunk it down, you might have something like this Edith bag from Melie Bianco.

This purse is very petite but it’s made a big impression on style bibles like The Rachel Zoe Report and People Style Watch take note. They were wowed by its attention to detail, and its low cost.

Melie Bianco keeps the price down by using its favorite faux leatherette rather than genuine calf or lamb skin. The material is too thin to really fool us, but its pebbled grain makes it an excellent mimic from a distance.

A purse so small is easy to carry using the top handle, but Melie Bianco knows modern misses love a hands-free option. We’d never see it on an authentic vintage handbag, but we’re happy for the convenience of the detachable cross-body strap.

With Mad Men set to make its television return next month, vintage styled bags like this are hotter than ever. At $70 carrying the Edith is a great way to stay on trend without spending a lot of money.

More Features of This Melie Bianco Top Handled Shoulder Bag

  • Top zip closure
  • Champagne colored polka dot lining
  • An interior cell phone and slip pocket
  • A detachable 50-inch shoulder strap
  • Measures 8.5 x 6 x 2.5 inches

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Yippydada Diaper Bags Make American Debut | British Baby Totes in USA

Posted on: Feb 23

Yippydada Lynx BagAfter making a splash at last year’s The Baby Show in London, Yippydada’s diaper bags have finally hit the United States.

Yippydada, established in 2011, looks to create stylish and fashion forward diaper bags that don’t skimp on all the details new moms expect. The leopard print, floral, and edgy camouflage prints are a refreshing and modern alternative to the cutesy patterns diaper bags are typically covered with! Many of these contemporary designs could easily slot into your wardrobe long after your ankle biters have grown.

All Yippydada bags feature a host of practical extras including an insulated bottle holder, a padded mat for emergency diaper changes, a key ring attachment, a pouch for soiled clothes or extra outfits, and easy access pockets. There’s even a masculine male model for stay-at-home dads or lads giving their loved ones a day off.

The practical Yippydada diaper bags are already available through several retailers including Mothercare and Amazon. American shoppers embraced the designs, and many styles actually sold out. We can expect a similar reaction when Yippydada’s best-selling Lynx bag, pictured, hits JoJo Maman Bebe boutiques later this month.

It sounds like it’s only a matter of time before these British baby bags sweep the United States. Are you impressed by their blend of fashion and functionality?

[Source: PR Web]

Yippydada Bags on eBay

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Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson St. Jean Satchel | Sophisticated Beige Everyday Handbag

Posted on: Feb 23

Olivia Harris St. Jean SatchelJoy Gryson takes us from the nine to five grind through to the weekend with this versatile St. Jean satchel from her Olivia Harris label.

The St. Jean gets its flexibility from its classic color palette, refined design, and functional features. It’s not really a head turner, but its warm beige lambskin body is lovely. I’m not so sure about the chestnut calfskin Joy Gryson’s chosen to accentuate it, but the contrast isn’t too jarring.

The St. Jean’s generous dimensions never feel unworkable thanks to its unique triple compartment design. Each section is spacious enough to hold essential items, but not so big that they become lost. Extra pockets in the side walls are perfect for stashing keys, cell phones, and other items we need to find in a hurry. The pair of long buckled handles are perfect for grabbing as you’re heading out the door, no matter what your destination.

As it’s part of Joy Gryson’s diffusion line the St. Jean satchel is priced affordably at $495. While that’s not chump change, it’s very reasonable for such a versatile leather accessory.

More Features of This Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson Satchel

  • Tonal topstitching
  • Brassy hardware
  • Nylon lined interior
  • Dual shoulder straps with a 9 inch drop
  • Measures 13.5 x 6.5 x 10 inches
  • Made in China

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Dooney & Bourke Flower Basket Bag | Medium Aqua Bucket Shaped Purse

Posted on: Feb 22

Dooney & Bourke Flower Basket BagHold the posies of peonies when you’re carrying this Flower Basket from Dooney & Bourke.

This purse isn’t meant for real blooms, even though it does resemble a flower planter. This inspiration is fresh and fun, which makes it perfect for Dooney & Bourke’s young fans. Happily though, the Flower Basket doesn’t look as childish as many of the label’s designs. It avoids looking juvenile by using matte colors and clean lines. The hues are youthful without being childish, and while they’re all very different they somehow complement the Flower Basket’s tan trim beautifully.

The Flower Basket is a relatively small bag, so Dooney & Bourke gets away with only including a cell phone pocket and a zippered one. I’d ordinarily say that isn’t enough to keep us organized, but a petite purse like this is already pretty user friendly. Its adjustable strap makes it even easier to manage, as it takes this bucket from a shoulder bag to a cross-body.

At $335 this isn’t Dooney & Bourke’s cheapest purse, but it is one of the label’s better designs.

More Features of This Dooney & Bourke Aqua Bucket Bag

  • Zebra print fabric drawstring closure
  • A single strap with a 19 inch drop
  • Measures 7.5 x 8 x 10.25 inches

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