August 27, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Burberry Leather Satchel Bag
I was wandering around on the Nordstroms website today when I stumbled across this handbag you see pictured above. It is a new style from Burberry for Fall 2008 and it is simply referred to as “Leather Satchel”. How does everyone feel about this bag? Personally, I find this bag rather attractive. The funny thing is, it has been a very long time since I last saw a Burberry bag that I liked. But this bag doesn’t really look like a Burberry when you look at if from a distance, so perhaps that is why I actually like it. I love the smooth, pebbled leather and the inverted pleat in the center adds just the right amount of interest. The style is both sophisticated and elegant with it’s curvy, yet simple, shape. Best of all, this bag doesn’t scream Burberry (No Burberry check here!). The only thing that gives it away is the discrete Burberry crest in the form on a metal plaque. So if you are looking for a classic style that you can wear year round, this Burberry Leather Satchel would make an excellent choice.

The Burberry Leather Satchel is constructed of soft, calfskin leather. It measures 19″ x 10″ x 10″ and the double handles have an 8″ drop. The interior features zippered, cell phone, and PDA pockets. It is currently available in Tan, but I wonder if it doesn’t come in Black as well.

Find it over at Nordstrom where it retails for $1,395.

[ The Bag Forum: Burberry Leather Satchel Bag ]

August 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Marc by Marc Jacobs Staples & Studs Large Satchel
Now isn’t this interesting? Leave it to Marc Jacobs to put staples on a handbag! Introducing the Marc by Marc Jacobs Staples & Studs Large Satchel. It is Marc’s lasted interpretation of the punk-chic look. All I can say is that it’s… well… um, different. This large black leather bag features stud detail along the top and sides and a huge tassel zipper pull. And no, that isn’t a zipper running down the front of the handbag. That is actually a row of staples that is straddling the center seam. Personally, I would never carry this bag. At best, it offers a look that one might call “unique”. But I just can’t get past those staples. The studs? Sure. But staples? What happened Marc?

The Marc by Marc Jacobs Staples & Studs Large Satchel is huge when it comes to satchel standards. It measures 15″ x 12″ x 5″. The bag features rolled double handles as well as a detachable shoulder strap. What puzzles me, however, is how one would actually use the shoulder strap. The handles don’t appear as though they fold down. They actually look like they would be in the way. This bag retails for $528.

Find it over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Marc by Marc Jacobs Staples & Studs Large Satchel ]

August 24, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Jerome Dreyfuss Joss Clutch
French designer Jerome Dreyfuss has made the Editor’s Pick list over at Shop Bop. What is this curious-looking clutch called? Meet the Joss Clutch! To be honest, when I first saw this clutch, it didn’t appeal to me at all. The crisscrossing straps on the front seemed a bit weird to me. But the more I looked at it, the more it began to grow on me. The simple shape and the buttery soft leather were calling out to me. For some reason, I see this clutch being worn as an everyday bag. Like when you’re out running errands and you don’t want to carry a lot of stuff with you. I picture this clutch paired with jeans and riding boots. Definitely not a look that is for everyone, but I think it has potential if worn with the right outfit. Plus I love the little flash light, key hook, and mirror that are tucked inside! How cool is that?

The Jerome Dreyfuss Joss Clutch is new for Fall 2008. The soft leather clutch features wrap around strap detail and a flap closure. It measures 12″ x 6.5″ and it retails for $635 (A bit high, but these bags are made in France). The Jerome Dreyfuss Joss Clutch is available in Petrol (Dark Blue) and Kaki (Brown).

Check it out over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Jerome Dreyfuss Joss Clutch ]

August 23, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

MICHAEL Michael Kors Lattington Medium Satchel
Purple handbags are everywhere! Darker shades such as eggplant and plum are supposed to be hot for Fall 2008. They are available in every shape, size, and style imaginable and they have been flooding the department stores. So here we are with, yet, another purple handbag that is new for this coming season. Meet the MICHAEL Michael Kors Lattington Medium Satchel. Now don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love the color purple — you’re talking to someone that had purple carpet in her bedroom when she was a kid! But his bag just doesn’t seem to do it for me. The overall style is alright and the studs are adorable. If fact, the little studs bring back very fond memories of the MK Astor bags. So what is it that bothers me about this bag then? It’s that contrast stitching. I’m not sure why, but for some reason they make the bag look cheap. And who wants a $400 handbag that looks like it only cost $40?

The MICHAEL Michael Kors Lattington Medium Satchel is available in Purple (shown) and Black. It offers some versatility with its rolled double handles and detachable long strap. The patch pockets on either side of the bag offer a nice place to keep cell phones and keys. It measures 13″ x 9″ x 6″ and it retails for $398.

Find it over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: MICHAEL Michael Kors Lattington Medium Satchel ]

August 21, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection - Now Available at Eluxury!
Listen up Bag Bliss readers! The Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection is now available at Eluxury! These bags have been receiving a lot of attention over at TBF. Everyone wanted to know when the bags would be available and how much they were retailing for. And do you know what the funny thing was? These were all women inquiring about these bags for themselves. It is true that they are “man bags”, but I think my fellow TBF’ers are on to something. I mean, the Damier print is just gorgeous in this color combination. Now if only Louis Vuitton would produce a Speedy in the Damier Graphite print (Psst… everyone over there at Louis Vuitton headquarters. Are you reading this?). But for now, I think everyone will just have to be satisfied with the styles that are currently available. Hmm, that Tadao would actually make a nice work bag for either a man OR a woman.

The Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection can be found within the Mens section for Louis Vuitton on Eluxury’s website. Pick one up for your man, or get one for yourself!
Pictured above (starting on the upper left and going clockwise):

Damier Graphite Grimaud - $1,840
Damier Graphite Keepall 55 - $1,270
Damier Graphite Ieoh - $1,330
Damier Graphite Tadao - $1,310

Check them out here at eLUXURY

[ The Bag Forum: Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection - Now Available at Eluxury! ]

August 19, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Anya Hindmarch Riva Clutch
IWhat do we know about Anya Hindmarch handbags? When I think of the London-based designer, I think of the mirrored leather handbags that the Anya Hindmarch name is most famous for (Okay, most famous for ASIDE from the “I’m Not A Plastic Bag” Tote). Anyone remember the Perriand Mirror Tote? Metallics are one thing, but that bag was so shiny you could see your reflection in it! But fear not Bag Bliss readers, for I have good news! Anya Hindmarch has a new clutch for Fall 2008. It’s called the Riva Clutch and it’s black with mirrored leather trim. The shiny stuff was used exactly how it should be — as an accent! And personally, I find the clutch to be rather charming. It’s classy and a little bit retro. And the resin turnlock? Cute!

The Anya Hindmarch Riva Clutch can be found over in the Designer Boutique section at Shop Bop. It measures 10.5″ x 6″ x 2.5″, has a suede lining, and retails for $495. In my opinion the price seems a bit steep for what you’re getting. Oh well, I guess not everything about it is good news!

Check it out here: shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Anya Hindmarch Riva Clutch ]

August 17, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Emma Pouch
Looking for a fun little coin pouch? This Emma Pouch from Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent looks to be an excellent choice. The bright and vivid colors would make such a nice pick-me-up. Is it just me? Or do you enjoy opening up your handbag, looking inside, and seeing a colorful little surprise inside? Just image how much fun it would be to have this pretty little coin pouch peeking out when you went fishing for your keys (or lip gloss, or cellphone, or whatever). Oh, the possibilities!

The Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Emma Pouch is constructed of ultra yummy-looking glazed leather. The front side is accented with delicate pleating and the contrast stitching adds some additional interest. The pouch is topped off with an extra long zipper pull tab. Best of all, the Emma Pouch is big enough to offer some versatility. It could easily double as a small makeup pouch. Or it could even be used as a small clutch, just pop in your bare necessities and you’re good to go.

The Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Emma Pouch measures 5.5″ x 4″ and it retails for a very reasonable $64. It is available in Fuchsia, Yellow, or Black (not shown).

Check it out over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Emma Pouch ]

August 17, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Goldenbleu Delilah Bag
Goldenbleu is a designer that doesn’t seem to pop up in TBF discussion very much. I’m not sure why though. Especially since Goldenbleu bags have been seen on the arms of celebs like Cameron Diaz, Lucy Lui, Rachel Bilson, and Heidi Klum. So what is it about Goldenbleu that causes it to be absent from forum discussion? My thought is maybe they are just a wee bit too glossy. Things might feel a bit awkward when your handbag is shinier than your freshly waxed car.

So with that said, let me introduce to you a new style from Goldenbleu. It’s called the Delilah bag and it is listed as an “Editor’s Pick” over at Shop Bop. The bag is made of glossy, snake-embossed leather with smooth patent leather contrasts. I like the ruching on the sides and the overall style of the bag. Heck, even the snake print is alright. My only problem is that nonfunctional zipper that cuts down the middle of the bag. Personally, I think the bag would look much better without it. What does everyone else think?

The Goldenbleu Delilah Bag measures 15″ x 11.5″ x 6″ and it retails for $695. It features double rolled handles, a magnetic snap closure, and buckle detail on the sides. It is available in both Black (shown) and Red and you can find it over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Goldenbleu Delilah Bag ]

August 14, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs
Choosing the Right Handbag for Your Body
Picking out a brand new handbag probably leaves us bag lovers with one of the best feelings in the world. When it comes to the selection process, however, many woman don’t take into consideration how the handbag might affect their overall appearance. The truth of the matter is, the wrong handbag can totally break an outfit. But if this is true, then that means the right style handbag can totally make an outfit by drawing attention away from one area and directing it toward another. Pairing the right style of handbag with your body type can be just as flattering as a pair of perfectly-cut jeans.

So which style works best with which body types?

If you are PETITE:
Smaller people can easily become overwhelmed by large handbags. Small to medium shoulder bags are your best bet. If you want to create an illusion of height, then pick a style that is taller than it is wide.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Eva

If you are TALL and SKINNY:
Don’t have a lot of curves? Try a large, unstructured hobo style. If you prefer a smaller bag, then select on that hits you right at your waist when worn over the shoulder. Both of these will help you create the illusion of a curvier figure.

Maison Martin Margiela Large Leather Sac Bag

If you are PLUS SIZED:
Go for larger, more structured handbags like totes and briefs. A bag that is wider than it is tall will help balance out your figure. Smaller bags should be avoided since they will appear out of proportion when compared to your size.

Tod’s Restyled D-Bag Media

If you are PEAR SHAPED:
Try a smaller bag that fits snugly under your arm. It will help you draw attention away from your hip area and toward your bustline. This will help balance out your figure. Messenger bags and satchels should be avoided since they will cause the eye to move downward.

Fendi Large Patent Baguette

If you are BIG BUSTED:
A large chest will only be emphasized by a handbag that hits you above the waist. Instead, choose a messenger style or handheld satchel. This will help draw the eye downward, away from your bust, and can help balance out your figure.

Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Speedy 30

Now that you know what style of handbag will flatter you the most, you will be able to make more confident decisions when it comes to purchasing a new bag. But wait, what if you absolutely fall in love with a bag that may not suit your body type? Don’t worry! Here at TBF we are all about what makes YOU happy. So as long as the bag makes you feel fabulous, then by all means, wear it with pride!

Find all of the handbags featured here over at eluxury

Source:
Hart, Gill. Choosing the Right Handbag for Your Body. Jan. 29, 2008. Suite101.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Choosing the Right Handbag for Your Body ]

August 11, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Maloles Andrea Clutch
As some of you ladies already know, I like to find unusual handbags to blog about. And as you can see, I have a rather different looking clutch picked this time. Introducing the Maloles Andrea Clutch. It has an unusual color combination — matte grey paired with champagne and black. Certainly not colors that you would expect to see together on an evening bag. But the colors are not the only thing different about this clutch. How does everyone feel about suede on an evening-only bag? Wow, now that is definitely something unexpected! Personally, I don’t think I could see myself carrying this clutch. But I think it would be really cute if you were looking for something that nobody else has. After all, things can get pretty boring when the only clutches you see floating around the room consist of black satin or sequins. So perhaps a clutch like this one could help mix things up a bit!

The Maloles Andrea Clutch features a flap closure with a resin turnlock. The clutch somewhat resembles a bow with it’s subtle pleating and metallic leather band in the middle. It measures 13″ x 6″ and it retails for only $381.

It is currently available in grey/champagne (shown) and cerise/champagne over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: Maloles Andrea Clutch ]

August 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Thomas Wylde Reservation Bag
Did you hear the news? Paula Thomas, founder and head designer of the Thomas Wylde brand, has actually come out with a handbag that retails for less than $2K. Meet the Thomas Wylde Reservation Bag. True to it’s name, this bag is somewhat reserved (for a Thomas Wylde bag, that is). It offers the perfect balance between tough girl chic and way over-the-top gaudy. What would have otherwise been a basic black leather bag, has been given just enough of a kick with it’s gunmetal studs. Plus, hidden inside, is a cool spider-print lining. It’s no Skull Bag, but overall, I think it’s pretty nice for what it is. My only gripe is that silly-looking tassel on the front. I think I would be tempted to cut it off. Hmm… or would that make it look too plain?

The Thomas Wylde Reservation Bag measures 18.5″ x 13″ x 7″, which is typical of most Thomas Wylde styles (e.g. BIG). It features a flat shoulder strap with braided leather detailing and oversized buckle attachments on each end. The flap top closure secures with a magnet and the backside features a zippered pocket. The bag retails for $1,800 — fairly inexpensive by Thomas Wylde standards.

Find it over at eLUXURY.

[ The Bag Forum: Thomas Wylde Reservation Bag ]

August 8, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

See by Chloe Patent Let’s Party Clutch
Is it a dog’s head? Or maybe a wooden shoe? Nope, it’s the See by Chloe Patent Let’s Party Clutch. And you know what? Whether it looks like a dog’s head or reminds you of a wooden shoe, this clutch is actually pretty cool. It features a unique flap closure where the flaps come down over the top in opposite directions. And the fun part is, if you just need to fish something out that is on one side, then you can simply open up the corresponding flap. Plus this clutch is both roomy and functional (check out the stuff inside!), so you may actually be able to carry some stuff along with you to that party (or hot date!). Best of all, it comes in this delicious dark purple, the most sought after color for Fall 08. So how does everyone feel about the See by Chloe Patent Let’s Party Clutch? Personally, I think it’s a little bit weird. But I also think it’s pretty nifty. I would definitely carry this clutch!

The See by Chloe Patent Let’s Party Clutch measures 10″ x 5″ x 1.5″ and it retails for $325. The interior features a dividing zippered compartment and eight credit card slots. The clutch comes complete with a kiss-lock coin purse and little mirror. It is available in dark purple and black (both patent leather).

You can find it over at shopbop.com.

[ The Bag Forum: See by Chloe Patent Let’s Party Clutch ]

August 6, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Zambos & Siega Umbrella Purse
Ingenious invention or utter catastrophe? I was browsing over at Shop Bop the other day and I came across this… um… “interesting” looking handbag. Meet the Zambos & Siega Umbrella Purse. Why do they call it the Umbrella Purse? Because this particular handbag comes complete with an umbrella caddy on it’s side (and an umbrella to go in it). One might argue that it is practical — finally a place to keep that pesky umbrella. Unfortunately, it looks absolutely ridiculous. I mean, the umbrella is mounted on the side of the bag like a sword in a sheath. Frankly, I would feel like Mary Poppins if I were toting this around.

Another problem that I see with the Zambos & Siega Umbrella Purse is the fact that this bag is constructed of wrinkled patent leather. The umbrella holder is simply a sheath of leather attached to the front of the bag. My concern is, what happens if your umbrella is wet? Everyone knows that water is a handbag’s worst enemy. You’d be sunk as soon as that sudden downpour was over, leaving you to question exactly how practical this design really is.

The Zambos & Siega Umbrella Purse measures 11″ x 16″ x 4″, meaning it could probably hold a laptop along with some other work-related materials. The main compartment opens up wide with its 37″ zipper. If it wasn’t for that umbrella on the side, it actually might have made a decent work bag.

You can find it over at shopbop.com, where it retails for $825.

[ Continue the chat in The Bag Forum: Zambos & Siega Umbrella Purse ]

August 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Baxter Dog Collar
We all love our furry friends. And for some of us, it is to a point where we cannot stand to be separated from them. In the past, I have seen several girls over at TBF mention the Louis Vuitton Sac Chien. What a great way to share your passion for Louis Vuitton with your best buddy? Plus, they get the privilege of traveling in style! But what about those of us who love our dogs, but prefer not to tote them around with us everywhere we go? Or perhaps, for those of us who have been kicked out of a few too many stores for bringing our dog inside? Well, how about a nice, pretty collar? And it’s not just any collar. Introducing the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Baxter Dog Collar.

The Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Baxter Dog Collar is different from the original version of the Baxter collar. Instead of being a plain, monogram print collar, this one is adorned with a pretty bow. This adorable collar just screams “princess”. But don’t worry, the bow is detachable for days when it might not be appropriate for your dog to wear.

The Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Baxter Dog Collar adjusts from 7.5″ to 9.5″ and is suitable for dogs weighing up to 9 lbs. It comes complete with an engravable metal tag. It retails for $280.

Check it out over at eLUXURY.

[ Continue the chat in The Bag Forum: Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Baxter Dog Collar ]