Chloe’s spring accessory line is replete with smooth leathers, slightly off-kilter neutral tones, and 70’s references. The Kathleen Shoulder Bag fits into the look of the line beautifully.

The gray tone of the leather of the bag is neutral, but not boring. It looks amazing up against the gold hardware, which really pops with its bold oversized styling. The multilayered flap closure of the bag is its best attribute, and the multiple rounded off shapes really draw attention to the purse’s soft curves.

The saddlebag shape of the handbag makes it unusual to look at, but comfortable to wear. It fits right into the nook of your torso beautifully.

The only thing I’m not sure about on the Kathleen bag is the thin shoulder strap. It looks nice, but it really isn’t that practical for a 9″x 10″ x 5″ bag. This is especially true since it would make such a nice everyday bag, but if that strap is digging into your shoulder, it just won’t be comfortable. In other words, fill with caution.

At $1,360, the Kathleen is a decent price for a great designer bag, but only for a woman who can fit this retro style into their wardrobe seamlessly and isn’t wary of that thin strap.

More Features Of The Chloe Kathleen Shoulder Bag

• 16″ handle drop
• Fabric-lined interior
• interior zipper pocket

Gray Shoulder Bags On eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from The Blue Parrot store on eBay
• Click here to search Chloe bags on eBay

The Cambridge Satchel is easily recognizable as a L.A.M.B. handbag if you’re familiar with the brand. It is similar to several other L.A.M.B. designs like the Galloway and Hopewell with a uniquely printed pattern and classic shape.

One of the signature features is the racing stripe running down the front and back of the satchel. The black and white leather strip breaks up the pattern and adds a bold statement to the bag. Other leather details on the Cambridge include the double rolled handles, handle anchors, and side panels.

The coated canvas print is fairly muted, which is a nice change from some of L.A.M.B.’s other bright options like tie-dye. If you look closely, you’ll see the brand name in cursive throughout the otherwise abstract pattern.

The brand’s logo can also be seen on the engraved gold plate that sits on the front. The formal-looking piece of shiny hardware kind of contrasts the casual air of the stripe, but L.A.M.B. is all about the unexpected details. The interior is lined with the signature striped fabric. The Signature Cambridge retails for $495.

More Features of the Cambridge Satchel

• Measures 15.5 x 13.75 x 6.25 inches
• Double handles with 5.5 inch drop
• Gold-toned hardware

L.A.M.B. Cambridge Bags on eBay

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• See more L.A.M.B. satchels on eBay
• Click here to search all L.A.M.B. handbags on eBay

So you know your Prada from your Proenza Schouler, but do you really know everything there is to know about handbags? Here are some fun purse facts that they didn’t teach you in school!

The first documented use of handbags comes from 14th century hieroglyphics. But these primitive purses were a long way from our girly fashion accessories. Back then lads tied the first “man bags” around their waist to carry flint.

By the 1400s ladies got in on the act. Purses covered in jewels and embroidery were serious status symbols. Wealthy bagistas were painted with bags fastened to their outfits with tasseled strings.

By the 17th century, handbags were out and small pouches worn under clothes were in. Then as tight-fitting clothes came into vogue in the 18th century, leather and embroidered handbags again found favor. It’s around this time that women began to carry different bags to complement different outfits. Perfume, smelling salts, and visiting cards were carried in purses known as reticules.

The word “handbag” was first used in the 1900s to describe men’s satchels and briefcases. Soon feminine versions were created with compartments for fans, gloves, and cosmetics.

But it wasn’t until after World War I that handbags became an indispensable accessory for independent women. And we haven’t looked back since!

[Source: Gisborne Herald]
[Image Source: Wikipedia Commons]

Vintage Purses on eBay

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At once edgy and casual, Furla’s Carmen Zipper Shopper can effortlessly add style to your everyday wardrobe.

The buttery soft patent leather gives the Carmen its unmistakable slouch and shine. The shoulder straps thread through grommets at the top of the purse like a drawstring, enhancing the Carmen’s casual appeal. But it’s not all relaxed. The angular zips at the front add a punk rock edge, while giving us a convenient place for stashing the stuff we need on hand.

You’ll find more pockets inside. A secure zip pocket sits on the back wall, while a cell phone slip occupies the opposite side. There’s room for a lot more though, and I wonder why that wall space wasn’t taken advantage of. On the plus side, the wide design does allow us to carry bulky goods like meaty novels and bulging wallets.

The Carmen Zipper Shopper is available in black and white cotton for the traditionalists, and geranio tomato red and blue china for something a little different.

More Features of This Furla Leather Shopper

• Made with 100% crinkled patent leather
• 100% cotton logo lining
• Magnetic snap closure
• Dual straps with a 7 inch drop
• Measures 12.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches
• Comes with a dustbag

Furla Carmen Bags on eBay

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Also See

• Click here to find this Furla casual shopping purse at Amazon
• All Furla handbags on eBay

As the spring season rapidly approaches, we’re starting to see the newest trends emerge. One of the major frontrunners of the bunch is the addition of studs to all kinds of accessories.

This rock-and-roll hardware is appearing on everything from handbags to shoes in every style. Of course, we saw a glimpse of this even before the rush of fashion weeks when Mary-Kate Olsen paraded around with one of Alexander Wang’s stud-bottomed creations before its release to the public (still waiting for that one, by the way).

Another collection to focus on this hard, edgy vibe is the newly unveiled accessories line by Christopher Kane for Versus. Even pretty bag designer Rebecca Minkoff has dabbled in the trend by creating studded versions of a few of her popular bags like the Devote, the Nikki, and the Morning After Bag (shown above).

The result is dramatic to be sure. I wouldn’t recommend wearing the trend on more than one item per outfit unless you want to look like a member of Van Halen. However, it’s a trend that’s bound to take off in the mainstream. Just remember to keep it in moderation and you’re ready to rock an outfit with a bit of Kate Moss edgy chic.

[Source: The Fashion Row]

Rebecca Minkoff Stud Handbags on eBay

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This small crossbody bag is a great hands-free solution when you need to grab a few things and head out. LeSportsac usually gets it right when it comes to practical solutions, but I always look forward to the cute, quirky patterns they add for style.

The amount of storage is definitely not the major draw with this one as it’s a mini. The variety of prints available is what makes the Sofia Crossbody worth a look, though it comes in a solid black patent as well. The fun colors as with the Lolli print shown here aren’t exactly versatile for a wardrobe but great for a sporty chic look.

Even if it’s fairly small, the Sofia is still practical in other features. The nylon material that LeSportsac favors with its bags will survive many days of wear and tear and probably a little moisture, too. This crossbody also has several compartments for stashing items. The front flap with an exterior zippered pocket opens to several more organizational spaces inside.

The long strap allows you to wear the bag as the name suggests, across the body. You can also adjust it to be shorter, if you want to wear it on your shoulder instead. This functional LeSportsac handbag in the Lolli hearts print is incredibly affordable at only $38.

More Features of the Sofia Crossbody

• Measures 7 x 6 x 1.5 inches
• Adjustable strap with 11.5 inch drop
• Nylon material

LeSportsac Sofia Bags on eBay

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• Get the Sofia Crossbody on Amazon
• Click here to search all LeSportsac bags on eBay

With a dash of retro styling and some luscious leather, Elie Tahari has created the sort of satchel I can imagine carrying for years to come. Meet the Zoe.

Named after Eli’s daughter, the Zoe is created from luxurious patent leather. Patent can tend to appear overly glossy and a little cheap, but this leather’s natural grain makes it look a lot classier. The rich tones may seem more appropriate for the colder months, but with the right confidence I can imagine wearing them in any season. This bold hollyberry has a festive appeal, but it’s also available in basic black, fiord blue, and olive green.

The classic domed shape and rolled dual straps give the Zoe its retro appeal. Polished circle embellishments underneath the handles and complementary stitching complete the chic look.

So often designers spend so much time making their purse look pretty, they forget what we need inside. Not so here; Elie Tahari has crammed a lot into this medium-sized space. We’ve got the zip, cell, and slip pockets we nearly take for granted these days, but there’s more. A leather card holder and pen pocket show the Zoe means business.

I’d expect a bag with the Zoe’s luxurious good looks and practical appeal to cost me a four-figure sum, so I’m pleasantly surprised by the $595 price tag. It’s still nothing to sneeze at, but it could be a lot worse!

More Features of This Eli Tahari Zoe Satchel

• Zip top closure
• Black fabric lining
• Four protective feet on the bag’s base
• Dual 18 inch straps attached with grommets
• Measures 9.5 x 13.75 x 7 inches

Elie Tahari Patent Leather Bags on eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from Peg’s Purses store on eBay – An Elie Tahari Purses Retailer
• All Elie Tahari bags on eBay

With warmer weather ahead, we’re all thinking about updating our wardrobe with a few extra pieces. But it can be tough to know where to start! This video, featuring madberries.com style director Donna Ladd’s recent appearance on WPIX 11 Morning News, is a great place to start.

Donna takes us through some of spring’s hottest trends, including color block, animal print, and fringe. Unlike the international catwalks and glossy fashion mags, the emphasis here is on affordable pieces to suit today’s budget-conscious fashionistas. The video also helps us achieve a stylish look that capitalizes on the current trends without overdosing on them.

But madberries.com does more than just share style secrets. This exciting new website also gives away the products it loves! Log on for a chance to win the Melie Bianco croc-embossed tri-fold clutch and JJ Winters suede fringe bag seen in this segment. Best of luck Bag Bunchers!

JJ Winters Suede Fringe Bags on eBay

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EcoBags classic organic tote bag just got better. It’s now available in a new lightweight version, perfect for those long days at the mall or weekly grocery visits.

It might not be as heavy as the average, but that doesn’t mean it’s a lightweight. This tote has been double stitched for added strength, so feel free to stuff it with soda bottles and heavy tin cans! It can expand to hold plenty, then fold away in your regular handbag when you’re done!

The smooth fabric is seven ounce certified organic cotton, an eco-friendly, machine washable material that can be used time and time again. The natural color is chic, but also a little boring. Creative types could probably jazz up this plain purse with their permanent markers. As I’m artistically challenged, I just hope to see some of EcoBags’ cute Totes with Quotes made with the lightweight cotton.

The bland exterior makes me a little hesitant to fork out the $19.99 retail price. Sure $20 is a drop in the ocean, but the less expensive Totes with Quotes bags have a lot more personality. They might be a little heavier, but they’re still not likely to weigh you down!

More Features of This EcoBags Lighweight Canvas Bag

• Dual 22 inch handles
• Measures 16 x 15.5 inches

EcoBags Cotton Totes on eBay

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Also See

• Click here to look at this EcoBags environmentally friendly grocery bag at Amazon
• All EcoBags handbags on eBay

I seems that the fashion industry recession isn’t slowing down the designing duo sensation of Hayden-Harnett. The popular brand has released some seriously stylish handbags since they established in 2005 and even joined forces with Target for an affordable special edition collection.

Now Hayden-Harnett is gearing for expansion with their opening of a second retail store. The newest boutique is nestled in the trendy Nolita neighborhood of New York City.

Though the new space is only 450 square feet (probably a luxurious amount of space for NYC), the designers have managed to pack the place with their handbags, shoes, swimwear, and jewelry. Click here to get more info about the location.

[Source: NY Mag]
[Image: Hayden-Harnett]

Hayden-Harnett Handbags on eBay

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