2009 deserves to be welcomed with the discovery of brand new talent in the world of designer purses. Zara Terez (love the name!) epitomizes the artistry that has always been a part of handbag design.

Her original silhouettes and intense attention to craftsmanship meld together in each of her well thought out and, frankly, funky designs. This artist finds inspiration everywhere around her – from her family to her Atlantic Beach, NY surroundings. Zara’s artistic sensibility is what sets her designs apart from the rest, and are getting her work noticed.

If you take time to browse her website, you’ll discover, as I did, that Zara is no wall-flower. The silhouettes of her moderately-priced collection are fun and functional. Take the Sunset Park satchel, for instance. This well-appointed design features adjustable shoulder straps as well as a slew of very practical outside pockets perfect for pack rats like me.

The Clementine orange pebbled leather exterior is a burst of sunshine, but the interior lining of each and every one of Ms. Terez’s designs are the real show stoppers. The complimentary circle tapestry of this particular design if a treat to the eyes and a welcome departure from your basic black lining. The Sunset Park measures 17 x 12 so it’s very roomy indeed, and you can’t help but be enticed by the $585 price tag.

Keep your eye out for Zara Terez and her fresh handbag designs. You’ll be hearing and seeing more about them. That I’m certain of. Besides, who can help but love a designer that classifies her bags under such fantastic categories as “clubbing”, “strolling” and “schlepping”?!?!

• Take a look at the Zara Terez website to view her entire bag collection as well as her accessories for men.
• Find Zara Terez bags on Amazon
• Search for Zara Terez Bags online

(Originally Posted By Dania P.: Spotlight On….Zara Terez Handbags)

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The woman next to me on a recent flight home from New York had a Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote stuffed under the seat in front of her, and when she fell asleep, I seriously considered snagging it. But, beyond the obvious deviousness of stealing someone’s handbag (I would have left her keys and wallet!), where exactly would I run to, trapped in a flying tin can? I suppose I could have feigned ill and stayed in the bathroom for the whole of the flight, but that would have been a)uncomfortable and b)pretty obvious. All these thoughts went through my head as I spied this lovely little treasure amid all the holiday turbulence.

But, let’s get back to the bag, shall we? Bigger than the Jet Setter Jr. and the Stud City, but smaller than the original City tote, the Mid City is, like Baby Bear’s bed, just right for me. At 17″ x 17″ x 3″ unfolded, it is big enough to carry everything a busy girl needs on a busy day, and then some, in au courant oversized style. Folded, it is 10″ x 17″ x 3″, still big enough for the essentials, but a little more reasonably sized for those mythical light packers.

The Mid City is available in a swath of colors and textures, from suede to glazed leather and peach to burgundy, but true to form, I like the elegant simplicity of this pebbled black leather. The goldtone hardware beautifully sets off the richly textured material, and I love that there is only the one simple zipper pocket on this vast expanse of black. The seam detail on the front of the tote and around the top completes the refined minimalist appeal of the Mid City.

The unique signature F+C handle looks beautiful on such a spare rectangular shape, and the tied off ends of the rolled leather handle are a quirky, bohemian detail.The Mid City can be carried flat by the handle, or folded by the removable shoulder strap, which is attached by goldtone lobster clasps.

There’s nothing I like more than a bag with a sweetly simple design and a little bit of rocker attitude, and the Mid City Tote by Foley + Corinna definitely fits the bill. And you won’t even have to steal one from the seat next to you on your next flight, like I almost did, because at under $400, the Mid City is priced reasonably for such a high-quality bag.

More Features Of The Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote

• Cotton-lined interior
• Two interior pockets with zip closure
• Two exterior pockets with zip closure
• No top closure, fold-over design

Foley + Corinna Mid City Totes On eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from the Shop Savoy Truffle store on eBay
• Click here to search Foley + Corinna bags on eBay

Motorcycle bags are just the thing if you’re looking to effortlessly add a little bad girl edge to your outfit. We’ve seen Zufi Alexander and Balenciaga take on the style, so I thought it was only fair to check out Bulga’s answer to the motorcycle bag: the De Beber satchel.

The front features a large zippered pocket and two secure pouches, while the back features another zip compartment. All those pockets might look busy on another bag, but not on a motorcycle. Zips and other shiny hardware gives the style its rock and roll look, not to mention its functional appeal. They’re toned down by the classic color range, which includes midnight blue and chocolate brown.

The top zip comes complete with a braided zipper pull to give the satchel a little flair. Use it for easy access to the De Beber’s clever interior. Spacious and made for organization, it features a zippered pocket in the back wall and multifunctional slip pouches to hold your personal technology. It’s lined with a logo print plainweave fabric to stack up to daily punishment.

It might look bulky, but the De Beber isn’t as heavy as you might expect. It’s made from lightweight Italian leather so it won’t weigh you down. Those lush double straps are also designed with your comfort in mind, although a longer drop would have helped with over-the-shoulder carrying.

With a retail value of $868 many of us will need to save our pennies before purchasing the De Beber satchel. But it seems like an excellent investment for a purse with the style and quality to last for seasons to come.

More Features of This Bulga Motorcycle Style Bag

• Dual shoulder straps with a 5.5 inch drop
• Measures 11.5 x 18.5 x 6.5 inches
• Comes with a dust bag
• Made in the United States

Bulga Satchels on eBay

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Also See

• Click here to browse this Bulga Italian leather purse at Endless
• All Bulga handbags on eBay

Don’t be fooled. The pattern on this Kate Spade might be called Classic Noel, but there is nothing about it that limits you to only carrying it during the holiday season. In fact, I’m not entirely sure what feature on it earns its somewhat specific name. The abstract pattern is, in fact, a tribute to the designer’s initials “ks.” You might have to squint your eyes and use your imagination, but it’s there.

Despite the name of this particular collection, the Kate Spade Stevie is as popular as ever for an all-season handbag. The signature Classic Noel jacquard in chocolate is lovely, albeit oddly named, for a casual look. The light brown leather trim and handles add to the everyday feel.

For an eyecatching touch, this Stevie purse has a thick red and brown stripe running down the front. The striped detail reminds me a little of a L.A.M.B. handbag, like the Morant, but the jacquard fabric lends a slightly more classic air to this Kate Spade. Drawstrings on the sides of it cinch the purse in a bit and tie into a bow, adding to the feminine look.

I love the practicality of a printed jacquard that won’t show dirt or scuffs easily. For organization, the logo-printed, lined interior has several pockets. This handbag closes with a sunken zipper, a nice touch for keeping a simple silhouette and holding everything in. Kate Spade’s style is very traditional and doesn’t fit every woman’s personal taste, but this satchel is lovely and is a great functional handbag for daily use. The Classic Noel Stevie is also available in black or navy and is priced at $385.

More Features of the Stevie Handbag

• Measures approximately 8.5 x 13 x 6 inches
• Double rolled leather handles with 7 inch drop
• Signature jacquard fabric
• Leather logo plate on front

Kate Spade Stevie Bags on eBay

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Also See

• See the tote version of the Classic Noel pattern on Amazon
• Click here to search all Kate Spade bags on eBay

What better way to start the year than admiring a sophisticated purse from an established designer bag brand. I celebrated the holidays with my family, and received a fabulous gift from hubby dearest. Yes, it was a bag of course. What else would Señora Cartera want?

Forgive me, I digress from my intent which is to sing the praises of this under $1000 bag from Tod’s. Women love Tod’s with good reason. Their handbags are stylish and expertly crafted. Designs are meant to be functional with the added benefit of longevity, not just in concept but in construction.

The Tod’s Easy Sacca Grande is a solid handbag investment. The coated canvas exterior (done in a stunning saffron color) and grained leather trim comprise the perfect union of casual style and practical materials. The adjustable leather straps as well as a detachable canvas strap add much-needed versatility.

You can use it as an everyday bag, a small shopping tote or opt for carrying it cross-body for a more youthful look. It measures 14 x 12 x 6 so no complaints about a lack of storage space can be made. The open top and snap closure offer easy access to the textile-lined interior that sports additional compartments to store smaller items.

If you did not have an opportunity to add a bag to your collection over the holidays, then the Tod’s Easy Sacca Grande is an excellent choice for your first bag of ’09.

• Tod’s Easy Sacca Grande available for $825 via eLUXURY

(First Posted By Dania P.: Tod’s Easy Sacca Grande)

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Tod Bags on eBay

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In these troubling economic times, few of us have the money to really splurge on the big name designers. But Sarah Jessica Parker believes we shouldn’t have to miss out on a little celebrity style. With her Bitten collection, the Sex & The City star has created handbags even the most cash-strapped fashion lovers can afford.

The secret is using high quality synthetic leathers. They’re not as expensive as their cowhide cousins, but they’re so soft and hard-wearing you’ll never notice the difference. The Fold Over purse features fabrics in a range of classic colors. They may be a little tame for some tastes, but the black, rich purple, and light brown handbags are so easy to coordinate with your favorite outfits.

Storage is maximized with the Fold Over’s handy organizational features. Inside you’ll find a zippered pocket for loose change and valuables, and another slip pocket for your cell. Outside there are zippered pockets on the front and back, perfect for easy access to the stuff you need on hand.

The Fold Over’s biggest attraction is its versatility. It can be carried by the handles, or folded in half and worn with the shoulder strap for a completely different look. It’s almost like two bags in one!

More Features of This Sarah Jessica Parker Purse

• Tassel zipper pulls
• Silver-tone hardware
• A single 22 inch shoulder strap
• Measures 20 x 19 inches

Get this Bitten Fold Over Purse on eBay

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• Click here to see more from the Half-a-Cup Clothes and Stuff store on eBay – A Bitten Purses Retailer
• All Bitten bags on eBay

You know times are tough when the iconic fashion labels of the world are struggling. Chanel is one designer who’s taken a real battering in the economic downturn. It was recently forced to cut short its mobile art exhibition tour, and now comes news that 200 jobs have been axed.

Ten percent of its production team, including 16 staff members from the legendary rue Chambon boutique, were given the boot last Wednesday.

“In the current context we … prefer to refocus on our strategic investments in terms of development,” confirmed a spokesman for the French fashion house.

The Chanel representative also commented on the early cancellation of the art exhibit, adding that it wasn’t wise to continue an endeavor “where we weren’t selling anything.”

At least one girl’s future at Chanel is secure. American beauty Heidi Mount was recently revealed as the face of the spring 09 Chanel advertising campaign. The designer has teased us with body shot ads for some time now, so it’s exciting to see the model responsible for that willowy form!

[Source: Hollywood Life]
[Image Source: d’n’c/Flickr]

Chanel Handbags on eBay

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New York edginess meets California bohemia in this gorgeous fringe bag by JJ Winters. Finally, a bag that is equal parts hippie and moto-chic, made of the highest quality American materials and craftsmanship. This bag is so retro that it would seem right at home at a Led Zepplin concert, circa ’79, but fits in well with today’s rocker styles. 

I love the hobo shape of the bag, and the slouchy soft black leather is just distressed enough to give it a perfectly loved-in look. The fringe side pieces give the bag a little extra bohemian charm, and the center silver O-ring and fringe tassel brings the look together perfectly. The strap closure is made safer by the full zip top.

I can’t get over the delicate contrast between the slim braided leather strap and the hard rock bag, but I do wonder how comfortable such a skinny minny strap would be if you stuffed this fringe bag to the brim. Anything more that your PDA and keys, and it might dig into your shoulder enough to make you beg for mercy.

Despite that, I love the look of the bag so much that I might be willing to overlook some of its impracticality. After all what’s going to work better with your skinny jeans and black leather jacket than, well, fringe and more black leather?

More Features Of The JJ Winters Distressed Leather Fringe Bag

• Interior pocket
• Fabric lined interior

Leather Fringe Hobos On eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from the Forever Boutique on eBay
• Click here to search JJ Winters bags on eBay

When high-end designers are being discussed, it is inevitable that the name Prada will be brought up. This designer powerhouse has been churning out the latest fashions for decades and won’t be slowing down any time soon. A Prada handbag is synonymous with luxury and status, and a woman who owns one is likely to be envied by anyone who sees it.

The Vitello Daino collection is fairly basic in design, but the quality is extraordinary. Soft, textured leather looks fantastic the closer you get to it. The unpretentious details and exquisite craftsmanship are what make this tote elegant.

Small gold-toned studs and rings decorate the large handle anchors as well as the detachable shoulder strap anchors on each side of the bag. A small id tag engraved with Prada’s name hangs from one of these handle rings, a detail to look for when spotting a fake. The signature logo and crest are also promoted in a simple display on the front of the handbag.

Unfortunately for those on a tight budget, Prada isn’t known for providing affordable options, which is why it has become such a status symbol. At nearly $2000, bags like the Vitello Daino tote might be out of reach for many. If you find yourself in that category, be sure to look at bags from Prada’s younger company Miu Miu, which offers similarly fashionable styles for a smaller price tag.

More Features of the Vitello Daino Tote

• Measures 14 x 14 x 4 inches
• Double rolled leather handles
• Detachable shoulder strap
• Gold-toned details and signature logo

Prada Vitello Daino Bags on eBay

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Also See

• More from the Julia Runway Designer Fashions store on eBay
• Click here to search all Prada handbags on eBay

There are two things a girl needs for a fabulous weekend away: their favorite gal pal and a fantastic travel bag. Alexander McQueen can’t take care of the former, but with their weekend bag they’ve got your accessory covered.

Alexander McQueen has ditched his trademark luxury leathers for a more practical canvas finish. This durable fabric will survive any punishment you dish out, and come out looking as stylish as ever. The white canvas exterior is accented by matching leather trim.

The Weekend spoils us with storage space to spare. Each side wall features a large zippered pocket which extends right across the bag. There’s also a small zip pocket on the front for the goodies you want on hand, and a few more smaller pockets besides.

The Weekend is a little tamer than the Alexander McQueen handbags we’ve seen in the past, so it could easily double as an office accessory, an up market gym bag, or a large shoulder bag for a day in the city.

More Features of This Alexander McQueen Canvas Bag

• Silver signature McQueen hardware
• Dual 24 inch shoulder straps
• Measures 20 x 13 x 9 inches

White Weekend Handbags on eBay

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Also See

• Click here to see more from the Opashome store on eBay – An Alexander McQueen Purses Retailer
• All Alexander McQueen bags on eBay