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June 25, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
The Bow Bag Trend: Chanel vs Valentino
To some, the bow is a cutesy, feminine little twist while to others, it’s one of those tacky adornments that’s often referred to as a bride’s maid’s nightmare. But lately, we’ve seen designers such as Valentino add a stylish bow to some of their handbags and smaller purses or clutches. And honestly, I use to be on the other side, in total fear of my future bride’s maid dress having one of those gigantic bows on the lower back. Ok, so how does that relate to handbags? Well now, after seeing the latest bow trend emerge from high end handbag designers like Valentino and Chanel, I’ve completely changed my view. They’ve taken this trend to a totally different level by minimizing the tackyness and turning a giant sized bow into a purse. So let’s now talk about the Valentino Bow Clutch vs the Chanel Satin Bow bag.
We’ll start with the Chanel version since it came out first. When I saw this bag after it’s debut, I loved it. A huge giant sized satin black bow with detailed pleating, a touch of classic Chanel diamond shaped quilting, and new-style CC closure – it seemed like such an elegant, more formal bag with an emphasis on feminiity, obviously, from the oversized bow shape. And also, the chain strap added a true Chanel feel to this piece. The size of this one is on the bigger side, measuring 19″ by 16″ with a 9″ strap drop length. But honestly, I don’t know how I’d feel carrying this one all dressed up for an event or special occasion. I pesonally think it would have been better suited as a smaller bag. And what’s the price tag on this one? Well, I’m not sure of the exact price but there is currently one on ebay going for $2,100. Now I definitely would never pay that much for this, unless of course I had the money to blow.
After every original design, those that are inspired by it are always just around the corner. With that said, it looks like perhaps Valentino loved Chanel’s idea of turning a big bow into a handbag. The second photo pictured above shows Valentino’s Bow Clutch in red, and it comes with a detachable strap. It also comes in pink and black satin. Personally, I think the red is a bit too loud and reminds me how bows can be tacky in the first place. But I think the black version is more subtle and very elegant. As for the size of this one, I’m not exactly sure but it is called a “clutch”, so I’m assuming it’s a smaller purse and more fit for an evening out. The price tag is much less than the Chanel bag, but is still hefty at $1,095. I also wouldn’t pay that much for this one.
So out of the two in the bow bag battle, I’d have to say that I like the Chanel Satin Bow Bag better than the Valentino Bow Clutch. The reason being is that the Chanel bag just looks nicer overall, whereas the Valenitno doesn’t have the nice chain strap and whose appearance is more bow-ish. But I’m definitely a fan of the new bow-shaped handbag trend.
See the Valentino Bow Clutch over at Neimans, and the Chanel Satin Bow Bag can be found at Chanel
June 19, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
Fendi To You Brown Patchwork Bag
When I first learned of the To You Bag by Fendi last year, I thought that it was such an innovative, unique, and functional purse. It can be worn as an oversized clutch or you can throw it over your shoulder for day wear. How awesome is that? And recently, bags that convert from dressy night clutch to casual shoulder bag have become the new favorite pieces of arm candy for many, including myself.
Even though I had wanted this bag for a while, I knew there was no way I would be able to afford it. So it just became another designer bag that was out of my reach, until Saks.com was having a handbag sale with big percent mark downs. And I couldn’t believe it when I saw the To You on sale from an in-your-dreams price of $1595 marked down to only $638.60. I know that $600 is still a lot for a bag, but for me it was worh it because I had wanted this particular purse for a while now. So I jumped on it and ordered the bag the next day after gathering advice on which color to get from my fellow Bag Forum members. And obviously, I opted for the brown. Below are two pictures of me wearing it in clutch style and shoulder bag style:
So was the bag all that I thought it would be? Without question! This bag was so much more gorgeous in person than on the Saks website. I couldn’t believe how wonderful this bag looked after taking it out of the black nylon dustbag that it was tucked in. And was it worth the price? Well, I think that I got such an awesome deal on this bag. So yes, it was worth the sale price that I paid and I have no complaints. However, I don’t think that I would have paid full price for it. Instead, I’d rather get a classic for that much money. But overall, I totally love my new Fendi To You bag in beautiful brown patchwork suede and nappa leather. And the panel that converts it from clutch to shoulder bag was beautifully crafted. Here is a picture of how it gets folded over and opens by the zipper pull:
So to anyone who is considering this bag, I say go for it if you can. I couldn’t be happier with mine!
June 18, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
SALE ALERT: Miu Miu Nappa Frame Bag
Have you visited Saks.com lately? They are having a great sale going on and everyday, they seem to put up new bags for much less than retail. One bag that I came across is the Nappa Frame Bag by Miu Miu in a gorgeous red shade called Rosso. I really admire the vintage-like characteristics this bag has, such as the frame top with a push-lock and buckle closure. And the color is great because it’s so vibrant, but not too bright at the same time. Also, the golden harware details elegantly compliment the red nappa leather.
Back to the sale: this bag just popped up on Saks.com and is marked down to $749.65 from $1595, which is an awesome amount of savings and is definitely worth it in my opinion. You can comfortably fit this one over your shoulder since the double strap measures 7″ in drop length. Also there is plenty of room for everything you need to carry! This one’s size is 23″W X 18″H X 8″D, which is on the bigger side. There is even an exterior pocket underneath the front flap and an interior zip pocket so you can organize the smaller things you need to carry. But anyways, this bag is a steal at it’s new mark down!
June 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
Fendi Patent Satchel Purse
Even though my handbag collection could use some vibrant hues since summer just began, I still find myself browsing through the pre-fall bags. My latest great find is the new Fendi Patent Satchel. I must say that I am loving everything about this bag. The shape is classic, the tobacco color is gorgeous, and the patent leather is a wonderful touch. Even the small details like the tarnished silver hardware make this bag so appealing. Also, I like the simple flap in the front with the turnlock closure.
I think this purse would actually be dull and would not have caught my attention if it weren’t patent leather. The shine from the leather really makes this piece stand out, but it still appears to be a classic bag. There is plenty of room in this one since it measures 14.5″ W X 8.5″ H X 5″D . The only thing I would change on this handbag is the drop length so it could fit more comfortably over the shoulder, since it is only 5 3/4 “. And what’s the price tag on this one? That would be $1300, which isn’t terribly bad, but still out of my budget currently. Anyways, what do you all think of the new Patent Satchel by Fendi?
June 10, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
CC Skye Medium Bag
After seeing “Hills” starlet Lauren Conrad sport a bag by CC Skye, I thought I’d check out what other bags they have in their collection. And after visiting their website, I totally fell in love with the Skye Medium Bag in Tobacco. The gold hardware, which is actually 18k gold plated, really compliments the smooshy brown leather. This bag is luxurious, classic, and stylish all in one. The interwoven leather chain strap detail somewhat reminds me of classic Chanel, and I could see how some might think it looks Chanel-inspired. But for me, it doesn’t matter because it’s more of using a similar style and this bag is just lovely. It’s even reasonably priced at $695.
This bag also comes in black and creme if you’re not a fan of the tobacco. Another thing that is super about this purse is the fact that you can remove the straps and wear them as chunky bracelets, which are sold seperately by CC Skye, and have been a favorite accessory of many celebs including Nicole Richie and Hillary Duff. Also what’s great about this bag is the leather shoulder strap it comes with. So if you’re carrying it by the chain straps and your arm gets tired, you can just comfortably throw it over your shoulder with the flat strap.
What do you think of this bag by cc Skye?
June 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
SALE ALERT!: Yves Saint Laurent Catwalk Flap Bag
If you hurry on over to the Saks website, you will be able to steal a bunch of designer purse deals from their online sale, including the Catwalk Large Flap Bag by Yves Saint Laurent. This bag originally retailed for $1495 and is now marked all the way down to $697.62! That’s over a savings of 50% off! I think this is such a steal for that bag. This purse by YSL looks like a comfy favorite black bag but is still so stylish from the glossy croc-embossed leather. It is definitely worth under 700 bucks because it would never go out of style, and also because, H-E-L-L-O, it’s YSL!!!
This shoulder bag measures 12″W X 10″H X 4″D, which is definitely enough room to carry your daily essentials, especially with the three large gussets for organization. Or, if your one of those girls that practically carries a store in your purse (nothing wrong with that!), you could opt to wear this one in the evening for when you need to carry less. This beauty would really go with any outfit during anytime of the day, for any occasion in my opinion. Oh, and guess what? It even comes with an attached zippered cosmetic case that’s right inside. Definitely a bang-for-your-buck purse!
Steal this one on SALE now over at Saks.
[ The Bag Forum: SALE ALERT!: Yves Saint Laurent Catwalk Flap Bag ]
June 7, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
Nordstrom Structured Silk Clutch
The search for a super-affordable and simply glamourous evening clutch has come to an end. The new Structured Silk Clutch by Nordstrom is the perfect grab-and-go accessory to carry in the evening or even sport during the day. I love everything about this little purse including the low price tag of $78. Now that is definitely a steal!
These are available in cobalt, black, champagne, and fuchsia. I think every color is great whether you want to carry one for evening wear or add a vibrant hue to your outfit for during the day. I’d say that the cobalt would have to be my favorite, but I do love them all. I could definitely see how the cobalt or fuchsia would be a great little accessory to compliment a nice summer dress, for example.
I really admire every detail on this clutch including it’s minaudiere structure, woven silk, and drop-in chain strap, which is great if you want your hands free. What’s also great about them is the kiss-lock closure, which adds a classic detail, and the interior card slot for quick, visible access to your credit cards.
June 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
Eiffel Tower Clutch by Timmy Woods
If you’re a lover of French fashion, or even historically renown architecture, you can now wear a piece of the culture’s heart in the palm of your hand. The new limited edition Eiffel Tower Clutch by Timmy Woods looks just like a mini version of the world famous tower which sits in the heart of the fashion world, Paris, France. I couldn’t believe my eyes when when I came across this clutch. I mean, I’m really not even sure which words I’d use to describe how this looks on someone. I’m sort of stuck between uinique-looking or just plain tacky…
Personally, I wouldn’t wear this limited edition piece. Though I do admire Woods’ artistic creation and how he incorporated architecture with fashion. I think this miniaturized take on Paris’ landmark clearly and cleverly ties into fashion since the city and it’s designers are a major part of the industry. And as for the clutch itself, it is made of light weight acacia wood and even comes with a silky bengaline strap so you can carry the mini-Eiffel over your shoulder. And despite it’s inconsistent shape (for a clutch, that is), it has enough room to hold credit cards, money, lipstick and even features an interior pocket for your cell. But overall, I think this limited edition piece is fit for a spot on a shelf or in a case with all of the other collector’s pieces.
See the new Eiffel Tower Clutch by Timmy Woods for $415 over at Nordstrom
May 30, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia
Marc Jacobs Oversized Clutch
So it looks like MJ has brought back the fashionable frog ornament that was first seen on the Rana Clutch. Some of us were scratching our heads since reptile ornaments weren’t a usual trend seen on pieces by Marc Jacobs, while others were excited to see something new and admired the little guy. Shown above is the new Oversized Clutch bag by the Marc Jacobs Collection. I wasn’t really a fan of the Rana Clutch, but I must say that I adore this one.
I’m really liking the cute little decorative silvertone frog with red crystal eyes on the exterior pocket of this clutch. I’m not a fan of the faux turnlock though. But, what’s great about this clutch is the fact that you can wear if over your shoulder since it comes with a strap. And the oversized feature allows you to use it like a purse, which is how I would prefer to use it anyway. This bag is made of nylon and trimmed with leather and it is available in purple or black. I would opt for the purple one if I had to pick. Lastly, I think this new clutch by MJ is cute, but I personally wouldn’t purchase it.
So is the frog embellishment a yay or nay?
The Work Bag:
The Beach Tote:
The Weekend Bag:
The Evening Clutch:
