The last things I usually think of when I think of hobo bags are the words “sleek” or “sophisticated”. Not because the women carrying them aren’t those things, but because hobos are usually more slouchy, casual, and bohemian.

But, as usual, Christian Dior is the label that can class up any casual look, and they do a particularly great job on this Diorita Hobo. The hobo shape gets a makeover with structured, but smooth grained, black leather. The thick calfskin and sturdy seaming keep the bag looking structural, rather than mushy and deflated.

While I like the look of this elegant take on the hobo, I do wonder about its comfort. I mean the great thing about a hobo is that you sling this huge bag over your shoulder, and somehow due to the softness of its shape and material, it disappears into your curves. Dior has taken the comfortable, nook-seeking design of the usual hobo and stiffened it up a bit. So, the Diorita might not provide the level of comfort that you are accustomed to in a hobo, but on the other hand, it has a minimalist, almost avant garde charm that most hobos can’t touch.

The other thing I don’t really love about the bag is the enormous dangling “D,” but it is removable. I’m sure a lot of people wouldn’t mind showing off their Dior charm; it’s just me and my non logo loving ways. The Diorita is elegant enough that I think it is going to have a huge appeal for bohemian women looking for something a little more streamlined, and also for women with classic taste looking for something edgier.

More Features Of The Christian Dior Diorita Medium Hobo

• Zip top closure
• Fabric-lined interior
• Made in Italy

Christian Dior Hobo Bags On eBay

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• Click here to see more from the Authentic Lovers store on eBay
• Click here to search Christian Dior bags on eBay

You hear the name Jessica Simpson, and generally pink, fluffy, slightly vacuous things spring to mind! Cowgirl tassels and skimpy USA bikinis, perhaps? In the world of handbags, however, she is beginning to make quite an impact, and demonstrating her maturity and sophistication with sexy bags like this is really upping the stakes.

OK, that’s enough instant and probably unfair casting of judgments. Let’s get onto the ins and outs of this massive weekender tote. First off, it’s big enough to hold all the clothes you need for that saucy getaway to the city, and doesn’t shout weekend bag from the rooftops. Even better, you don’t have to lug this hold-all around with little pretty-looking handles, that couldn’t hold the weight of a feather. Nope, this bag has practicality and style; you can transform the straps to longer ones with a 26 inch drop length!

It’s not a colorful bag this one, and with totes everywhere showing up in bright holiday shades and retro prints it is like a breathe of fresh air. Oh, and your boyfriend will be quite happy to carry this around for you, as it shouts sensible leather beauty, not girly weekend away! If you are worried about the bag being too blokey, however, don’t worry. The cute black and white gingham lining complete with zipper pockets will suit all your girly needs.

My conclusion? Jessica Simpson has upped the celebrity designer game, with a travel bag that will last for more than one season, and through plenty of exotic trips. It’s subtle, luxurious and feminine. Delightful!

More Features of this Jessica Simpson Travel Bag

• Leather-like fabric exterior
• Double handle straps or removable shoulder straps
• Gingham interior
• Chunky buckles and metal hardware

Get This Jessica Simpson Aer Weekender on eBay

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• Click here to see this Jessica Simpson faux leather handbag on Amazon
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Chiropractors have confirmed what fashion lovers had already guessed: your favorite oversized handbag is bad for your health. The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress says these popular purses may be convenient, but carrying them creates a postural imbalance, which may have dire consequences for the spinal discs, body structures, and nervous system.

“I have had patients complain about shoulder pain and lower back pain,” explained Gerard W. Clum, D.C., president of Life Chiropractic College in West Hayward, Calif., and spokesperson for the Foundation. “When I ask the patients to show me the size and the weight of their handbags, it can be in excess of 10 to 15 lbs., which can cause serious risk to your overall health.”

So what’s a girl to do when she needs to carry her wallet, house and car keys, iPod, cell phone, PDA, and digital camera on an average outing? Well, the good news is that we don’t have to abandon our oversized purses altogether. We should just buy smarter.

Dr. Clum suggests handbags should weigh no more than one or two pounds. He also urges against taking the bag’s weight on one shoulder. Instead he encourages women to tote purses with two shoulder straps, or to pull a carry case.

“Heavy, cumbersome bags may leave you with back, neck, and shoulder pain, even headaches and can aggravate or accelerate arthritic conditions,” he cautions. “It’s important to find ways to stay healthy while staying in fashion.“

[Source: Earth Times]
[Image Source: Fasnail/Stock.xchng]

Lightweight Purses on eBay

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Prepare to party with this fun Stardust clutch from Hype.

The sexy metal mesh body comes in glitzy gold and silver, or a more sedate black version. I love the slinky appeal of the tiny metal discs, but I’m not sure they gel with the leather handles. Perhaps using patent leather or opting for a metal chain strap would have given a more unified look.

For the handles’ flaws, they do give us a versatile carrying option. I’m not sure how comfortable they’d be, but if hand-held carrying is what you’re after they do the job. Personally I’d opt for the longer shoulder strap, particularly if I’m spending my night on the dance floor.

It’s that sort of party environment where the Stardust shines. I imagine it’d be a little big and brassy for a glammed-up evening event, but for a fun night with friends I couldn’t ask for more.

More Features of This Hype Stardust Bag

• Twill lined interior
• Magnetic snap closure
• Inner zip pocket
• Measures 10 x 13.5 x 2.5 inches
• Made in China

Hype Metallic Purses on eBay

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• Click here to find this Hype metal mesh clutch at Endless
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I do love a good purse. I also love brands that aren’t afraid to keep it plain, so it isn’t surprising that this modernist yellow clutch really caught my eye. As with all great bags, the shape and lines of a good design speak for themselves, and this purse is no exception. With its gently curved corners and simple envelope style snap closure, I caught myself reaching absentmindedly for the credit card!

At this point, however, I though the bag probably begged a little more examination, and I was slightly hesitant about what I found. The color, granted, is quite beautiful. Even if you don’t personally swoon over daffodil shading, this little gem hits all the right trend buttons with bright, bold colors. This isn’t a half-hearted attempt at “yellow,” this is diving in headfirst.

When you think about it, however there isn’t much more to this bag. The handle is thin and simple (although probably strong), and the only touches of something different are with the gold colored hardware. The interior is satisfactory, with one little zip pocket, and I would say it was boring if it wasn’t lined in luxurious brown suede. We have no fancy trimming, and no special touches. It is a classic, time honored design in a new 21st century shade, and that is all there is to it.

If you want subtlety, try this patent beauty, and if you want extra features try this red number. However, it’s a great bag if you are looking for something with a designer edge, that is brave and bold, but not overpowering – for your look or your pocket!

More Features of This RG House of Florence Baguette

• Made of boar leather
• Gold colored hardware
• Brown suede leather lining
• One compartment and one zip pocket
• Snap closure

Yellow Clutches on eBay

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• Click here to see this Italian leather Purse on Amazon

Forget the impression your bag’s style or brand gives out. What do the items inside say about you? One company is giving you some answers.

This is more than describing a personality based on a purse choice. Handbag Therapy offers each customer an individualized analysis based on the contents of their own handbag.

How does it work? Send Handbag Therapy a photo of your everyday purse and everything it contains. For about $15, life coach Debbie Percy will examine what you’ve got and e-mail back her “reading” of you that includes a few positive pointers for improving your current situation.

It’s a fun and light-hearted way to get some feedback on your life. So open up that handbag, be it Christian Dior or Jessica Simpson, and find out where you’re headed.

[Source: Fashion Tribes]
[Image: Handbag Therapy]

Jessica Simpson Handbags on eBay

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It’s not hard to get accustomed to the oversized handbag trend. Whereas they were previously confined to airports and overnight trips, large satchels like this Big Buddha Groupie have quickly made their way into everyday outfits as gals tote around a monstrous amount of necessities and extras.

Although I suppose doctors are not particularly fond of the trend, or our sometimes aching shoulders for that matter, it’s easy to appreciate the space that satchels like this provide when you’ve got a long day ahead of you. Forget carrying a purse, briefcase, gym bag, and more all at once. A tote this size will hold everything plus some.

Of course, it’s not always practical to carry something so large, but you’ll greatly appreciate the Groupie when the occasion calls for it. Plus, this mustard brown version is a great, versatile color for a wardrobe, and the oversized hardware adds just a touch of feminine detail to an otherwise gender-neutral bag.

Because of the synthetic material, I’m not sure how long a satchel like this will keep if there is significant daily abuse to it. However, at only $88 a pop, you could invest in a couple of Groupie handbags to spread the carrying burden and mix it up with some different colors. Choose from mustard, black, or a funky washed-gold for this Big Buddha bag.

More Features of the Groupie Satchel

• Measures 19 x 13.5 x 7 inches
• Double handles with 8.5 inch drop
• Detachable strap
• Zip top closure

Big Buddha Groupie Bags on eBay

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• Click here to get this oversized Groupie Satchel on Amazon
• Click here to search more Big Buddha handbags on eBay

Legendary actress Catherine Deneuve recently made headlines for carrying a striking black clutch purse featuring the Arabic words “Where is my heart?” The embroidered bag is the brainchild of Sarah Beydoun, a Lebanese designer who employs her country’s female prisoners to fulfill her creative vision.

The touching story began a few years ago when Sarah was completing her thesis about vulnerable women, including prisoners. During this time she met with reformed criminals seeking a new life after jail. That chance meeting planted a seed; Sarah knew how she could make a difference.

Her business began modestly, employing five inmates from Baadba Female Prison to make bracelets. They then began to embroider cloth to create handbags. The first lot of 12 purses was eagerly received, and as demand grew Sarah’s workforce increased to 40. Former inmates looking for a fresh start also signed up, joining the company which would become known as Sarah’s Bag.

Catherine Deneuve is not the first celebrity to own a Sarah’s Bag purse. Queen Rania of Jordan carried one, sporting the Arabic proverb “Determination comes from those who are determined,” to the wedding of Crown Prince Felipe of Spain.

In the beginning, Sarah’s Bag made just a few purses each day. Today there are dozens, sold not just in Lebanon, but around the world. Who knew fashion could change lives?

[Source: Bag Snob]
[Image Source: Sarah’s Bag]

Embroidered Clutches on eBay

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• Search for Sarah’s Bag purses online

If you love Emilio Pucci’s psychedelic signature prints, but don’t feel confident enough to carry a bag as large as the Summer Shopper, this cosmetics purse could be just what you’ve been searching for.

Those colorful signature prints are what makes these cosmetics purses so appealing. But what I like most is that they can be tucked away into a more conservative tote. Emilio’s dynamic designs are striking, but they also have a tendency to overwhelm. They’re perfect for a casual beach setting or long day at the mall, but not right for work or an evening soiree. When those vibrant bags need to stay at home, this cosmetics purse can still come out and play.

It’s a real cutie, but this makeup purse lacks the practical features of many of its contemporaries. The signature lining is fun, but not entirely functional. It’s bound to soon show the scars of wayward lipsticks and delinquent powders. An easy-clean vinyl may not have had the looks, but it would maintain them for years to come. I also wish there were pouches and pockets to help my makeup stay organized.

Do those good looks alone justify the $120 retail value? Emilio Pucci fans will undoubtedly say yes, but I’m not so sure.

More Features of This Emilio Pucci Make-Up Purse

• Made of polyester fabric
• Zip top closure with signature zipper pull
• Measures 7 x 2.5 x 4.75 inches
• Comes with a dust bag
• Made in Italy

Emilio Pucci Cosmetics Bags on eBay

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This is a great, yet simple, handbag. In fashionable mustard faux suede, it is soft and flexible, perfect for carrying your treasured everyday items with maximum comfort. It’s even big enough to sling in some extra goodies: your big five-year diary, perhaps, or a folder for work. Even a little chihuahua would fit in quite well, and would be satisfied with the roominess!

Those of you who know Kathy Van Zeeland’s work will no doubt have noticed her penchant for rich yellow and mustard shades, in combination with strong materials and textures. Dependent on taste, this could be either an upside or a downside. As with Marmite, you either love this color or you hate it with a deep intense passion! Currently I am sitting on the fence, although I do worry that a color as specific as this would coordinate with very little, and might make people of a delicate constitution feel slightly ill! Luckily, the manufacturers of this bag have clearly thought ahead and you can also get it in a more generic brown or black.

Color aside, this is a very nice tote to look at. The patent trim and shiny metal work add a classy touch, as well as strengthening the bag itself. In top of this, it features a whopping four pockets on the outside of the bag, perfect for keeping us busy girls organized and calm. Whilst featuring a zip, the shiny interior is a tiny bit disappointing, with one large space and no segmentation.  If you can make do without pouch upon pouch inside your bag, however, then the drop of 10 inches should be perfect for everyday outfits, and it should flip over effortlessly into smarter formal apparel.

All in all, this is a pretty and functional bag, from a luxury brand with a great reputation.

More Features of this Kathy Van Zeeland Faux Suede Purse

• Faux suede with manmade patent leather trim
• Rolled tote straps measure 22 long and have a drop of 10
• Top zip entry to a roomy main compartment
• Four exterior pockets on front, back and sides to help keep you organized
• Fabric lining

Kathy Van Zeeland Delicious Bags on eBay

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