The Christian Dior men’s line, Dior Homme, has released their newest accessories for the spring. Included in the bunch is a new batch of man bags … or murses, as they’re often called.

Whether you call it a murse or European bag, this accessory is definitely for the fashion-conscious guy, or at least the man who has everything. They’re all black leather, but I can’t say they scream masculine to me, especially one particularly shiny patent version.

However, I’m sure that won’t bother most guys. For men in the market for one of these types of bags, the function and sleek style of them will far outweigh any hesitations.

Most technology-savvy guys will appreciate the front slit that enables you to slip your iPod cord through. These “murses” are distinctly contemporary in look, too, with vertical totes and asymmetrical messengers.

These luxury men’s bags are sure to please any fashion forward male who prefers the finer things in life like designer accessories. See more from the collection here.

[Source: Bag Bliss]

Dior Homme Bags on eBay

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I’ll go ahead and admit straight off that this bag is not my style. I like edgy bizarre bags with quirky details. This bag has none of those things, and yet, I still appreciate it for its sleek, sophisticated styling and classic good looks.

The pouch shape of the purse is fabulously well thought out. It pinches in at the top for a tailored look, and I love the huge rectangular silver grommets that the straps thread through. The crinkly patent leather is the perfect backdrop for the silver details, and the contrast with the nude leather strap is fabulous.

The straps are my favorite part of the bag. The rectangular chain-links threaded with black leather are an edgy detail against the nude handles. I also usually can’t stand large logo plates, but the enamel bow detail on this one is just too adorable.

I can see this bag really working as an every daybag for a girl with an office job and a secret wild side. The sleek shape will take you through the day, but the chunky silver details make it work for night as well.

More Features Of The Anya Hindmarch Patent Tote

• 16″ x 12″ x 10″ size
• Suede-lined interior
• Interior organizational pockets
• Protective feet on base

Black Patent Totes On eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from the Bagaholics Anonymous store on eBay
• Click here to search Anya Hindmarch bags on eBay

The Jessica Simpson Smarties Soft Clutch is somewhat of a rare bird when it comes to clutches nowadays. In contrast to most others of this style today, the Smarties only functions as a small clutch instead of holding as much as a regular purse with oversized dimensions or converting to a shoulder bag with a detachable strap.

However, this clutch does work a lot like a wallet. I’d even go as far to say that it probably should have been classified as such because of its wallet-like features.

The kiss-lock clasp that you see peeking out from the top of the bag is only one closure on the Smarties. This Jessica Simpson clutch actually stays shut with a hidden snap. Once the Smarties handbag is open, you realize that the kiss-lock really closes an interior coin pocket.

That’s only one storage compartment, though. There’s also a zippered pocket for cash and several slip pockets including some perfect for an ID or credit cards. If that’s not a wallet, I don’t know what is.

Whether or not you agree that the Smarties bag should be called a wallet instead of a clutch, it’s still a cute and functional accessory. The bright blue is perfect for this season, but it’s also available in yellow, black, orange, and multi-colored.

More Features of the Smarties Soft Clutch

• Measures 7.2 x 1 x 3.7 inches
• Interior coin pocket
• Retails for $65

Jessica Simpson Smarties Bags on eBay

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• Get one of these colorful Smarties clutches on Amazon
• Click here to search all Jessica Simpson handbags on eBay

Botkier generally offers a variety of styles, but their handbags always incorporate current trends. The Marcel bag is no exception with its woven leather strips and metallic sheen.

Although it has a structured shape, this Botkier bag’s texture and loosely folded sides soften its appearance. The frame and kiss-lock clasp add extra shine and keep it from looking slouchy.

This is the perfect bag to add some pop to an outfit. Woven leather can often look classic like the Genevieve, but the metallic strips on the Marcel give it a dash of contemporary instead.

If you don’t want to lug it around in your hands, you can simply slip out the Marcel’s ultra long strap. Twenty-two inches of chain might be a little bulky to store inside the bag when not in use, though, and would be better if it were removable. However, overall the Botkier Marcel is a great clutch with more style and edge than most.

More Features of the Marcel Clutch

• Measures 7.5 x 4.75 x 2.5 inches
• Chain strap with 22 inch drop
• Lined interior with engraved logo plate

Botkier Clutches on eBay

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Also See

• Get the Marcel Clutch in champagne or black on Amazon
• Click here to search all Botkier bags on eBay

Bag lovers in Hong Kong are beating the financial crisis by snapping up second-hand luxury purses.

Pre-loved Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel handbags bring massive crowds to Milan Station in Causeway Bay. Yu Chan is a regular visitor who began to look for second-hand purses in response to the recession.

“Because, if for the same price you can get, I mean if for a more attractive price, you can get the same quality, why not?” said Yu. One of her favorite buys is a moss green Lindy bag. Ordinarily the Hermes purse would cost more than $6000, but Yu found hers for just $4000.

But Yu isn’t alone. Tony Chan, the chief marketing officer of Milan Station, says his ten stores have seen a five to seven percent increase in business since last year. He claims shoppers are still attracted to the iconic Louis Vuitton and Gucci bags, even if they can no longer afford the latest lines.

“They like the LV and Gucci most because they want to show it off,” he explained. “When you buy the handbag, it shows you it’s a high-end brand. It’s easy for your sight. That’s why.“

It sounds like they might be onto something in Hong Kong! None of us want to support the knock-off designers, but buying a pre-loved luxury purse is another matter entirely. Until similar market stores open near us, there’s always eBay!

[Source: VOA News]
[Image Source: Ronnieliew/Flickr]

Gucci Bags on eBay

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Over the years Ugg has earned a reputation for being as Australian as meat pies and kangaroos, embraced by the world for their feel-good sheepskin accessories. This barrel bag plays things cool, keeping the snuggly wool inside to create to a look that’s appropriate all year round.

My major problem with this handbag is that it takes few risks. The cylindrical shape is typical of barrel bags, and there’s little here to dress it up. The front slip pocket gives a little extra storage space, but it does nothing to enhance its looks. The choice of baby blue, pale pink, and sand colors is also a little snoozeworthy.

The purse’s greatest drawcard is that soft wooly sheepskin lining. There are no bells and whistles, no organizational features to speak of. But reaching inside to grab your keys or cell phone is akin to receiving a warm hug.

Is all that worth paying $140 retail? Probably not. For me this purse plays things a little safe, despite its obvious quality. Yet Ugg bags tend to walk off the shelves quicker than boutiques can stock them, so maybe value doesn’t matter so much!

More Features of This Ugg Australia Sheepskin Purse

• Sewn Ugg Australian label on front
• A single shoulder strap
• Measures 11 x 5 x 5 inches
• Comes with a dustbag

Get This Ugg Australia Barrel Bag on eBay

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• Click here to find this Ugg Australia baby blue purse at Amazon
• All Ugg Australia handbags on eBay

It’s fairly often that a gal requires a bag that combines convenience and style. In fact, I’d even say that it’s probably a daily occurrence for most women.

Of course, there are always those times that we’re willing to sacrifice comfort or practicality for something fabulous (hello, stilettos). However, it’s nice to know that many designers understand the need for truly practical yet chic handbags.

This Cole Haan Kyle Tote jumped out at me as one of those accessories that gets that combo right. With it’s nylon material and plethora of pockets, the Kyle easily fits the bill for the convenience factor, but it really doesn’t forego much style either.

The leather trim and handles are just enough to give it some contrast without looking overdone. Although this large tote also comes in black trim, the spicy orange color is great for this season and a fun twist for a slightly unconventional bag.

Instead of a traditional square tote shape, the Kyle has a slight triangular silhouette that I think adds to its appeal. This oversized handbag also has an expansion belt inside to customize the look. In addition to the exterior zip and flap pockets, the interior contains a couple of pockets and a key clip. The Cole Haan Kyle Large Tote retails for $295.

More Features of the Kyle Large Tote

• Measures 18 x 11.5 x 8 inches
• Double straps with 8.5 inch drop
• Nylon with leather trim

Cole Haan Kyle Bags on eBay

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• Get this spicy orange Kyle Tote on Amazon
• Click here to search all Cole Haan handbags on eBay

Being the CEO of a fashion label probably isn’t the most desired or secure job right now, even when that label is fully established. In fact, it might be that some of the up-and-coming designers are surprisingly a little better off than the seasoned ones.

Perhaps this was what prompted Elie Tahari’s CEO Susan Kellog to resign from her post. It wouldn’t surprise me to see more of the same throughout the struggling fashion industry, although that’s just speculation for now.

The New York-based design company doesn’t plan to go anywhere soon, though. With plans for expansion and celebrity fans like Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Garner, we’ll probably continue to see Elie Tahari designs in stores for a long time … just with a new CEO in charge.

[Source: WWD]
[Image: coutorture/Flickr]

Elie Tahari Handbags on eBay

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Timmy Woods creates handbags that are one part fashion accessory, one part work of art. While they’re often a little kooky for my tastes, the Zanara manages to look stylish and original.

The African-inspired bag is carved from fallen acacia trees. For every tree she uses, the eco-conscious Timmy Woods plants another two in their place. The smooth wood is embellished with black and white zebra stripes and accented with beautiful black beads. The beaded tassel offers a little tribal flair without looking too rustic.

The wooden handle might be stunning to look at it, but I can’t imagine it’s the most comfortable thing to carry. It does come with a longer shoulder strap, but that doesn’t quite gel with the Zanara’s unique look. The interior’s also on the basic side, with just a zippered pocket to keep things in order, but the silky bengaline lining does add a touch of luxury.

It might not be the most practical choice, but the Zanara is excellent value for a signature piece. The $285 retail value seems so affordable for a bag which took one month to handcraft. Reserve it for those special occasions and you won’t mind those niggling flaws.

More Features of This Timmy Woods Zanara Handbag

• Measures 6.5 x 7 x 2 inches
• Signed by Timmy Woods
• Comes with a dust bag

Timmy Woods Acacia Wood Purses on eBay

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• All Timmy Woods bags on eBay

British handbag house Radley has come up with a guilt-free way to indulge in the new season’s purses.

Until April 30, customers are encouraged to donate their pre-loved handbags to one of the label’s stores across the United Kingdom. This generosity will be rewarded with a £40 discount on any new Radley handbag priced £120 or more. It’s always hard to give away an old friend, but that should help sweeten the deal!

Radley is working with The British Heart Foundation on the handbag drive. All purses collected by the fashion label will go to British Heart Foundation stores around the UK. These second-hand bags will help to raise funds for medical research, patient care, and education about heart and circulatory disease.

So The British Heart Foundation gets much needed funds, and we get to clear some clutter out of our closet and save on one of the hot new spring/summer accessories. It sounds like everybody wins!

[Source: Girlie Gossip]
[Image Source: piX1966/Flickr]

Radley Bags on eBay

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