May 14, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Coach Ostrich Accordion Zip Around Wallet
As mentioned previously, Coach has been increasing their prices to compete with higher end designers like Louis vuitton, for example. And it seems like they are trying to make their accessories more exclusive. I mean, there are plenty of Coach goods that appeal to me and I own a few bags by them. But honestly, $1,500 for an Ostrich Wallet with the Coach label on it is a joke, in my opinion. And aren’t their products made over in China?

The new Ostrich Accordion Zip Around Wallet by Coach comes in light blue and tan, and I would pick the blue or “pool” if I were to purchase one (which would be never). The wallet is very functional, allowing one to carry many credit cards, money, papers, change, ect. But so what? To me, and besides the exotic skin, this Coach wallet is nothing spectacular and is just like any other wallet of theirs. Why would I spend $1500 on a wallet when I could buy a bag or two? I think Coach is taking their pricing a little too far. But hey, if you’re a fan of the wallet, there is also a matching handbag that retails for $4,800!

See it here at Coach

[ The Bag Forum: Coach Ostrich Accordion Zip Around Wallet ]

May 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

YSL Y-Mail Black Patent Coin Purse
The Y-Mail Collection by Yves Saint Laurent presents a creative way to put a signature on a bag. I think this collection is adorable and fun yet still classy like most of their bags. Here we have the Y-Mail Patent Coin Purse in black, which looks just like a little piece of mail ready to be sent out. It is even has the traditional envelope closure on the back. I wonder if this one exists in white?! Though I will say that I love the black with gold writing combo since those two colors compliment each other so well. The address even looks authentic and not computerized. I’m really liking the details on this black cutie.

The Y-Mail Coin Purse comes with a price tag of $175, which I don’t think is too bad from something by YSL. So, considering its label and the fact that it’s not your average coin purse, I think it’s worth the price. I’d personally love to pull this one out each time I had to pay for something! I could see how some might think its a bit too much, but I just really love the Mail theme going on. Overall, I think this coin purse would make an awesome addition to an accessory collection.

See it at YSL

[ The Bag Forum: YSL Y-Mail Black Patent Coin Purse ]

May 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Free People Chubby Change Keychains
Does anyone remember when Jennifer posted about the adorable Chubby Change Purses that Free People had to offer? Here’s a link to the post so you all can refresh your memories: Free People Chubby Change Purses. Well, it just so happens that I was the first one to post about those cute little guys over at TBF. Jennifer liked them so much, that she did a blog post on them. They must have done very well over at the Free People website because they are sold out of every color now except for the black.

Well, anyway, I was over at the Free People website today and I saw a new product that they have out. This one is called the Chubby Change Keychain. Instead of a kisslock, these little guys have a big zipper going down their bellies. And the key clip lets you attach your keys to the pouch or the pouch to something else (like the model’s belt loop). These guys aren’t as cute as the Chubby Change Purses, but they do have some charm. Plus they are available in 7 different colors/patterns! Perfect if you need something to just stuff some cash into and go!

These guys are a steal at only $24! They are available exclusively in Free People Boutiques and online at Free People’s official website. Check them out here: Free People Clothing Boutique

[ The Bag Forum: Free People Chubby Change Keychains ]

May 7, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Goldenbleu 3-In-1 Audra Oversized Clutch
Do you want a shoulder bag? A quick-errand bag? A teeny clutch? How about all three… in the same bag! While browsing around over at eluxury, I stumbled across this interesting looking bag from Goldenbleu. It’s patent leather, has a chain strap, and a kiss-lock closure. The catch? That little extra pouch on the side snaps right off!

This bag probably isn’t the most attractive bag I have ever seen in my entire life, but I’ll admit that its a pretty interesting one. I mean, how cool is that? Having a bag that snaps apart so you can wear it three different ways. It’s kind of like one of those magic scarves that you can supposedly wear 10 different ways, only not nearly as complicated! LOL!

So my thought is that this bag would be really good for someone that has a really full schedule. Think about it. You’re at work and you need all your daily take-alongs in your bag. Then you head off to the mall to do some quick shopping. But now you don’t need to take as much with you since this is going to be a quick trip. Then its off to dinner at a nice restaurant… you only need the bare essentials there. Now instead of have three different bags all in one day, you could use this 3-In-1 instead. The whole thing for work, just the bag for shopping, and just the pouch for dinner out!

The Goldenbleu 3-In-1 Clutch:
- Quilted crinkled patent leather
- Link chain shoulder strap; 10.5″ drop
- Strap can be tucked inside for clutch carry
- Exterior pouch to front; can be removed and carried as a clutch
- Frame top with kiss-lock closure
- Measures 13.5″ (at base)x 8.75″x 3″ (including pouch)
- Removable pouch measures 9″ (at base)x 6″x 1″
- Retails for $650

Find it here: at eLUXURY

** update: this clutch is actually on sale over at shopbop! Available in blue or black — $455

[ The Bag Forum: Goldenbleu 3-In-1 Audra Oversized Clutch ]

May 5, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Accessories by JoAnn: The Transfer Bag
While working the other day, a woman asked me where she could purchase a liner for her bag that would help keep her organized. Huh? You mean there is such a thing? Never in my life had I heard of a handbag liner, let alone one that keeps you organized. Perhaps I’m just living in a small world, I’m really not sure.

So after I heard about this handbag liner thingie, I decided to go check it out for myself. I looked high, I looked low, and I looked in every store. And do you know what? I couldn’t find a single one! Hmm, no wonder this lady was asking me where she could buy one! So finally, I decided to search the internet for this elusive item. Here’s what I found: The Transfer Bag from Accessories by JoAnn.

Now at first glance, I thought these things were kind of weird. Yep, this bag is actually meant to be placed inside your handbag to keep you organized. It also makes it super quick and easy to switch handbags. I’m not too impressed by their overall appearance (the one pictured above was the most stylish looking one), but I guess as long as they stay hidden inside your handbag then they would be alright. I know a friend of mine would probably like one since she complains constantly about how her bag doesn’t provide any organization at all.

The Transfer Bag from Accessories by JoAnn:
- Available in 3 sizes (The Classic, The Big Timer, and The Teenie)
- Each style features multiple interior and exterior pockets/compartments and a built-in makeup pouch
- Comes in a variety of fabrics, prints, and colors (including metallic leather!)
- Prices range between $30 and $100

You can find The Transfer Bag at the Accessories… by JoAnn official website: Accessories… By JoAnn Online Boutique!

[ The Bag Forum: Accessories by JoAnn: The Transfer Bag ]

April 29, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Crocodile Card Cases: Nancy Gonzalez vs Saks Fifth Avenue
Crocodile (or alligator) handbags are so hot right now. Practically every designer has come out with a crocodile bag for Spring 2008 — and if not crocodile, its python or ostrich! But these are not boring brown or black bags, they are all in vibrant colors just right for the season. My favorite? I love the bright shades of orange!

So let’s say you have yourself a brand new croco bag from spring. How about some matching accessories to go with that bag? Wallets are okay, but lately I have really been in to credit card cases. So sleek, simple, and easy to switch from one bag to another. Plus I love how you can easily find the card you’re looking for while you’re checking out at your favorite store.

Pictured above, we have the brightly colored Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Card Cases and the Saks Fifth Avenue Alligator Card Case. Both cases are made of genuine crocodile/alligator. The difference? The price tag! While the Saks Fifth Avenue cases retail for a mere $150, the Nancy Gonzalez ones go for a whopping $390! The benefit of the Nancy Gonzalez version is the delicious colors that are available. But if you’re not willing to fork over the dough, then the Saks Fifth Avenue cases may be the better choice. Just be forwarned, they only come in the so-so colors of black or brown.

The Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Card Cases are available at Vivre.

The Saks Fifth Avenue Alligator Card Cases are available, of course, at Saks.

[ Crocodile Card Cases: Nancy Gonzalez vs Saks Fifth Avenue in The Bag Forum ]

April 14, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Julia Cocco ‘Degrade’ Patent Eco-leather Clutch
Everyone seems to have Green Fever lately. Going Green has been becoming more and more popular over just the last couple of years. And now, designers have been jumping on the bandwagon as well. Gee, I feel like I’m in the early 90’s all over again… but in a good way! I remember how saving the planet was a huge deal back then. Reduce, reuse, recycle and giving a “hoot”. But after just a few short years, the hype died down. Nobody cared about helping the environment anymore.

So what happened that caused this renewal of interest? Is it all the celebrities that have been photographed shopping with reusable shopping totes? Or, for that matter, all of the celebrities that have been photographed naked for PETA’s anti-fur campaign? I can’t really say for sure. And although I don’t agree with everything when it comes to the new Green Movement, I can definitely say that this is something good. It’s all those flashbacks I keep having about the poor polar bear in Al Gore’s movie, makes me feel like I need to make the effort to be more environmentally conscious.

So what does all of this have to do with the Degrade Patent Eco-Leather Clutch by Julia Cocco pictured above? Well, it has to do with the “eco-leather” part. When I first saw this bag, I thought it was gorgeous. But, I admit, I didn’t know exactly what eco-leather was. So I looked it up on the Green Consumer Guide website and here’s what they had to say:

Quote:
This material is made from 80% cotton and 20% synthetic micro-fibre. Eco-leather shares the same characteristics as ordinary leather, yet has many benefits. Colouring for instance is a much simpler process, and the material does not wear or flake over time.

Hmm… a material that looks, feels, and behaves like leather but isn’t really leather. I have yet to see how well this material actually wears, but I think sounds pretty cool. I hate that yucky PVC plastic stuff that they make cheap-o handbags out of, but this material sounds different. My hope would be that it would last just as long as real leather and not fall apart.

Julia Cocco Degrade Patent Eco-Leather Clutch:
Chain Strap
Turnlock Closure
Interior Slip Pocket
Measures 8 2/3″ x 4 1/3″ x 2 1/3″
Available in Violet or Smoky Brown
Retails for $145
Made in Italy

Now you can live Green and own a beautiful designer clutch! The color is just perfect for Spring! This is definitely a win-win situation here! Check it out here: FORZIERI

[ The Bag Forum: Julia Cocco ‘Degrade’ Patent Eco-leather Clutch ]

April 13, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Juicy Couture Leather Cell Phone Holder
Okay, imagine yourself in this senerio:
You’re at work and your boss just kept giving you things to do because she wanted everything finished before the end of the day. And, of course, all you wanted to do was hurry up, get done, and get out of there. Why? You have a hot date tonight (or perhaps a long looked forward to night out with the girls)! So finally you get to a stopping point and race out of there before anything else falls on your lap. You get home and you are quite anxious because you are running late. So you quickly throw on your favorite dress and make a grab for that cute little clutch you have. But wait… you still have to gather all of the things you need out of that gigantic work tote and put them in your bag before you can walk out that door. Dang it! Where are your keys? Where is your cell phone? And your credit cards? If only you didn’t have to fumble around looking for all those things. Now you’re really going to be late!

So has this ever happened to you? To tell you the truth, this happens to me ALL the time. I am chronically late for where ever I might be going. Believe me, its not easy having to run on a tight schedule every day. Going from school to home to work. Ugh! So if I actually have plans to go out somewhere, I don’t want to be stuck looking endlessly for all the things I need to take with me.

Well the other day, I came across what might be an excellent solution. It’s this Juicy Couture Leather Cell Phone Holder. Not only is it a cell phone holder, but it holds your credit cards, ID, and keys as well! Wow, everything you need in one little package. You can just grab and go!

Juicy Couture Leather Cell Phone Holder features:
See-Through ID Window
Four Credit Card Slots (secured with a snap closure)
Zip-Around Cell Phone Compartment
Key Ring
Measures 5 1/2″ x 1/2″ x 3″
Retails for $75

Get it here: FashionChateau.com

[ The Bag Forum: Juicy Couture Leather Cell Phone Holder ]

April 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Envelope Style Clutches for ALL budgets
The envelope clutch is classic piece that’s destined to never go out of style. There are so many different versions floating around out there, all varying in price by different designers, but when it all comes down to it — they all share the envelope style.

After combing through the galactic space of the world wide web, I narrowed it down to 8 fantastic pieced for all budgets, that range from $14.99 for a super high glossy plastic envelope clutch and on up to $1,660 for an alarming red patent purse. Of course there are other fabulous pieces that can be found in the middle range, my picks are detailed below.

Xhilaration Envelope Clutch – It’s exhilarating to know that you don’t have to dish out major cash on a clutch that you’ll probably wear only once or twice a month. This super cheap Xhilaration clutch isn’t the prettiest of the bunch, but hey, it gets the job done.
-> Find it for $14.99 @ Target (black or red)

Daisy Fuentes Turn-Lock Flap Clutch - Since when does Daisy Fuentes have a handbag line at Kohl’s? I’ve never really shopped at this deparment store, heck I never even heard of them until Simply Vera, Vera Wang line moved in on the shelves. Anyway, I think this is a great find for $25. Forever21 you can’t beat that!
-> Find it for $21.99 @ Kohl’s (black, purple, white or yellow)

Vivre Leather Envelopes - These Vivre pieces are my far my favorite of the bunch. Available is juicy bold attention grabbing colors, plus they are made of embossed leather, giving it the crocodile exotic look, without the steep exotic price tag.
-> Find it for $156 @ Vivre (pink, green, turquoise or orange)

Loeffler Randall Katia Envelope Clutch - A simple envelope style clutch with a touch of attitude. Loeffler Randall could have just popped out the traditional same old envelope purse, but no, this designer threw some studs into the mix. I love it. It gives it a day-to-night sort of look to it.
-> Find it for $345 @ ShopBop (light grey)

Luella Heart envelope clutch - Mirror mirror on the clutch, who’s the fairest envelope clutch of them all? If you love metallics –who doesn’t?– then you will love Luella’s heart ornamented envelope purse.
-> Find it for $595 @ net-a-porter (metallic silver)

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Envelope Clutch - Okay, do you remember those beautiful croc-print Vivre clutches I mentioned like 2 seconds ago, well check out this beauty. If you are looking for the real deal — genuine crocodile — then this is the clutch for you. It runs about $1k+ more than the Vivre leather version, but still this is an investment piece.
-> Find it for $1300 @ Saks Fifth Avenue (caramel of rose)

Versace Couture Clutch - Dressed in woven quilted Greek key logo pattern throughout in metallic grained leather. This piece will flow with any spring - summer outfit from day to night. This piece is also a little bit bigger than the average clutch (11″x 6.5″x 1.25″), so it also comes with a shoulder strap, to transform it into a envelope style bag.
-> Find it for $1305 @ eluxury (champagne)

Brian Atwood Mattie Patent Clutch- And finally we have arrived to the last of fab envelope style clutches, the patent Mattie by Brian Atwood. This vintage-inspired patent purse features a longer triangular flap-cut then the other pieces, that combined with the high patent gloss make this piece look extra sleek and stylish.
-> Find it for $1660 @ Saks Fifth Avenue (red or black)

Happy Envelope Clutch Hunting!

[ The Bag Forum: Envelope Style Clutches for ALL budgets ]

April 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Leiber Limited-Edition Strawberry Cupcake Clutch
Feast your eyes on the new one of a kind strawberry cupcake that will last a lifetime! Freshly baked right out of this seasons’ oven from designer Lieber (meets Strawberry Shortcake) is this sweet, savory and sparkly mini-cake clutch with yummy looking pink frosting on top. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I came across this little baked good because I’ve personally never seen anything like it before. And if I had $4,295 to blow just like that, I’d definitely eat this one up!

The Strawberry Clutch by Lieber is coverd in beautiful Australian crystals in rose and light pink. I absolutely love how this clutch sparkles and shines from all of the tiny stones. And what I also love is how life-like it is. The frosting is shaped unevenly and swirly, just how it looks in real life when used as a topping on real cupcakes. And it even features a little cupcake holder, detalied and all. I must say that I am totally captivated by this piece. It’s completely different, yet feminine and elegant from the all-over pink crystals. And as for where this one falls on the trend meter, it’s not like strawberry cupcakes will ever be tasteless!

See it at Neimans

[ The Bag Forum: Leiber Limited-Edition Strawberry Cupcake Clutch ]

March 27, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Michael Kors Beverly Gator Watch Clutch
Everyone says that the watch is one of the first things that you notice when you go into a meeting (along with shoes). When you reach over to shake the others hand, you can’t help but look down and spot that solid piece of expensive wrist candy. This may be mostly true for males than females. Sure I check out the watch, but I also have to take a glance at the whole package before me: shoes, attire, jewelry and of course the handbag.

But what about a wristwatch clutch? Coming at you fresh, from the spring line up from designer Micheal Kors –who have you noticed has been focusing a lot more on handbags– it’s a clutch with a new unique twist. How many other designer’s out there traded in the norm materials for something different? I appreciate that.

It combines the masculinity of the wristwatch band and femininity of the classic alligator-embossed leather clutch in a refreshing lime green shade.

You can find the Michael Kors Beverly Gator Watch Clutch at Neiman Marcus

End Note: Want to see more wristwatch band bag trend? Check out Zac Posen’s Daisy Bag.

[ The Bag Forum: Michael Kors Beverly Gator Watch Clutch ]

March 25, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Lauren Merkin Clutches
If you’re looking for a few hot goodies to add to your clutch collection, here are a few great additions for you by designer Lauren Merkin. This season, bright colors are making an appearance everywhere including vibrant shades of blue, pink, and metallics. And a clutch in any of these colors definitely adds a great touch to your outfit.

The Lauren Merkin Diana Text Lamb Clutch in cobalt blue is both colorful and practical. As I have mentioned before, electric blue hues are hot for Spring and Summer. Also, it can easly match with anything you wear. This supple blue lambskin clutch features a 22″ long strap to be worn over the shoulder and measures 9.5″x 2″x 2″, allowing you to comfortably carry your necessities. Price: $250

Next we have the Louise Glittered Linen Clutch. This clutch features shimmering linen with a classic framed top and an adorable pleated front. There is plenty of room for what you need to carry since it measures 7″x 14″x .5″. This is also available in hot pink and natural tan. Price: $180

Pretty in fuchsia, the Sequined Clutch by LM is a great purse for parties, events or a night on the town. It will definitely add a little glittery glam to your attire. It features a gathered front and allover sequins. The measurements on this pink hottie are 4.5″x 9.5″x .5″ which would carry enough to last you through your night out. Price: $225

Lastly, we have the Char Embossed Suede Clutch in a slightly metallic platinum. This elegant piece is perfect for a more formal evening out. There is also an exotic twist as the leather is embossed with lizard print. Exotic prints and materials are also another hot trend. This clutch, which measures 6″x 11.5″, features a front flap with magnetic snap closure, a gathered body and even a little patch pocket on the inside. Price: $220

Any of these clutches by Lauren Merkin would make a great addition to your collection. Check out more colors and styles by this designer over at Neiman Marcus.

A huge selection of Lauren Merkin clutches and handbags can also be found over at ShopBop.

March 23, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Anya Hindmarch Loose Pocket Cases and Key Pouches
Anya Hindmarch — a gal that likes to put labels on her bags. She’s famous for the I’m Not A Plastic Bag canvas shopping tote, but did you know she has produced other bags with writing on them? Above, you’ll find a Loose Pocket Case and a Key Pouch from her collection. Hmm, if you ask me, they are coin purses. But leave it to designers to give sophisticated names to ordinary objects!

The Loose Pocket Case (left) is constructed of metallic leather. It features this adorable scalloped edge and is embossed with a saying. This particular one is pink and says “Fun Money”, but it is also available in a “Cruise Fund” (gold) and an “Odds & Sods” (blue) version. The case measures 7″ x 4 1/2″ x 1/2″ and retails for $145. Now if only she would have designed one that said “Handbag Fund”!

The Key Pouch (right) is constructed of pebbled leather. It features a tasseled zipper pull and a spring-clasp keyring. The one shown is a chestnut brown and is gold embossed with the word “Work”. This key pouch is also available in a “Home” (blue) and a “Car” (tan) version. The pouch measures 5″ x 3″ and retails for $135. Now you can have your keys organized and ready for a quick “grab and go”!

Most amusing about these coin purses, I thought, was how they have this “Martha Stewart” aura about them. Is it just me, or does this seem like something she would create with her trusty sewing machine and glue gun?

The Loose Pocket Cases are available here: Saks Fifth Avenue
And you’ll find the Key Pouches here: Vivre Online Store and Catalog

March 23, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Hollywood Purse Hooks
How annoying is it when you go to a restaurant and you have no other option but to place your handbag on your lap or on the floor because there are no available seats next to you? It’s even more aggravating when you know that the floors are dirty, or when dining out, you jeopardize spilling food on your little one. I’m pretty sure it’s a problem that most of us bagnistas have experienced. Well guess what I recently discovered? Meet Hollywood Purse Hooks, the answer to this common dilemma!

Hollywood Purse Hooks is an As Seen On TV product, (oh how those infomercials talk the consumer into buying their product). As I watched their presentation on TV, (and as a person with this constant problem), I knew I had to purchase this item, and oh now handy it has come! This product comes with two purse hooks (a silver plated hook and a gold plated hook) adorned with a large gemstone for decorative purposes. A navy blue velvet carrying case is also included. Each hook is capable of holding up to 35lbs. of weight, and can also be used to hold clothes, umbrellas, belts and more. If you’re interested in the Hollywood Purse Hooks, you can BIN or Bid on them here: eBay