May 8, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer
Fantastic 14: Fourteen Fabulous Bags under $140
Finding a fabulous handbag under the $140 make can be a difficult mission, especially if you’re not a fan of browsing the web for hours on end or if you try to spend limited time on the computer as is. Some sites, like for example yoox, you can spend hours getting through all of their pages of designer handbags. Sites like those have up to thousands of bags in their inventory. After a while, it could get a bit tedious.

So I combed through the galactic web-space with the mission to find fourteen stunning bags that retail for under $140.

My list is pictured below, but remember, if you guys have any that you want to add to the list feel free to post them here, in our fabulous sister site, The Bag Forum.

Forever21 Wooden Medallion Clutch on left
Yah-yah forever21 isn’t the number one place for designer handbag shoppers — their shelves are filled with inspired-by, some may say replica’s. However, this little soft colored medallion clutch looks nothing like the “wannabe designer bags” over at forever21. I think this is beyond super adorable. Also it retails for as much as a starbucks coffee + a blueberry scone. That’s a sweet deal.
- Find it for $12.80 @ Forever21

Julie K Handbags Envie Python Clutch on right
Love letter to you from Julie K. The envelope clutch is classic piece that’s destined to never go out of style. This delicious berry colored Envie envelope clutch is made with genuine python embossed leather, giving it the exotic look, without the steep price tag.
- Find it for $99 @ CoutureCandy

Top Shop Bow Clutch on left
The first image that ran through my head was the Yves Saint Laurent suede bow bag (lookie, there’s a bronze one on ebay), which is what initially reeled me in to read over the details. It’s just a simple soft clutch topped off with an elementary oversized bow. Effortlessly chic.
- Find it for $79 @ Top Shop

Jigsaw Leather Clutch on right
I am craving ruffles! This clutch is so adorable. It’s dressed in rows of leather ruffles — in a cupcake liner style. A perfect way to add a touch of femininity to any outfit. I just have so many outfits running through my head that can match with this clutch.. I’m thinking bold brightly colored attire. I’m so ready for spring!
- Find it for $140 @ call 020.8392.5600

Deux Lux Pintuck Satchel on left
UrbanOutfitters is a hot store for anyone on a budget (period). I don’t have any bags from this store, but I do have quite a collection of fabulous scarves and basic tees. The prices are just amazing. Another great find is the Scrunch Hobo (for under $40), there’s a decent handful of TBF’ers who own that style and haven’t had any negative comments towards the brand.
- Find it for $68 @ UrbanOutfitters

Monsoon Turnlock & Buckle Bag on right
I know what you’re thinking — seriously, enough buckle loops? Yeah, how many buckle straps do you need for a simple shoulder bag? This bag needs 8. It gives it some life though. I mean without the additional hardware, it would just be a plain old every day’er.
- Find it for $70 @ monsoon

Gustto Doma Clutch on left
Here’s a sweet deal that can’t be procrastinated on! From 4:30 AM PST on May 7th until 11:59 PM PST on May 9th, shopbop will be offering 25% off their 70% merchandise. This means a total savings of 77.5% off the original retail price. Which means, this Gustto clutch which usually retails for $535, is only $120.37!! Totally sweet. But you must hurry.
- Find it for $120.37 @ ShopBop –> use code EXTRA25

Melie Bianco Diagonal Purse on right
Meet the Melie Bianco Diagonal stitch tote. A stylish bag for whatever mood your in. Carry it as a handbag by day — no need to go home and purse-change — simply fold it up into a clutch and whahala you have a new accessory look. This purse also comes with a chain shoulderstrap for over the shoulder action.. it’s the urban 3 way bag!
- Find it for $90 @ Piperlime

Dereon Volume Satchel on left
Even House of Dereon made it on my list! I’ve been craving bold attention grabbing colors, and this intense pink purse would definitely liven up even the deadest looking outfit.
- Find it for $99 @ Dereon

VI VI VEE Leather Tote on right
Vi-vi-who? Never heard of this designer, but I’m really liking the simplicity, plus the reasonable price tag is equally pleasing. The color above is okay, but this bag is also available in like a dusty rose and textured sky blue.. you’ll have to check them out.
- Find it for $135 @ YOOX

Gryson for Target Drawstring Tote Bag on left
Of course I had to add a bag from the super reasonably priced Gryson for Tarjay line. My pick from the Gryson stock is this drawstring tote, perfect for beach life. It’s almost beach bum season! What will you be carrying?
- Find it for $49.99 @ Target

Banana Republic Graphic-print tote on right
This bag is so spring-summer chic. Plus it’s super spacious, ideal for carrying anything & everything you need for your daily mission.
- Find it for $118 @ Banana Republic

Longchamp ‘Le Pliage’ Tote Bag on left
These bags are popular among all crowds (men & women, children & adults) for their lightweight and durability since the birth of the Le Pliage line back in 1993. They’re great not only for everyday use, but are fabulous for traveling, roaming the beach, shopping excursions, and so on. It’s a great alternative for that heavy purse. What’s so awesome about it, is you seriously wont even know that you are carrying this bag. It weighs like 1 pound!
- Find it for $135 @ Nordstrom

Nordstrom Reusable Tote on right
Chic reusable tote is cast in shimmering metallic brushed linen and features original artwork by Ruben Toledo. The unstructured style folds into its own silvery faux leather bottom with a zip closure for easy storage and portability.

I’ve already seen so many people around seattle with this tote.. but I still want one!
- Find it for $21.95 @ Nordstrom

[ The Bag Forum: Fantastic 14: Fourteen Fabulous Bags under $140 ]

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

Great Gifts for Mom
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, why not get mom something really special this year? What about a nice handbag? Whether she’s a bag fanatic just like you, or you simply want to share one of your many interests with her, no gift is more personal that a great bag that you know she’ll love! What a wonderful way to let mom know how much you care!

Now that you’ve decided to get mom a new bag for Mother’s Day, you’re going to need to pick one that suits her tastes. Oh dear, that could be a bit tricky. Maybe you don’t like the same things. Or worse yet, you do like the same things and you might end up wanting to keep the bag you pick out for her! LOL! Well don’t worry girls, I have picked out some mom-worthy gift ideas and I’ve included a little something for everyone (different mom’s have different tastes). And, since I know you girls would rather be putting your money towards handbags for yourselves, all of the bags I have here are less than $400!

For the casual mom:
1. Coach Signature Carly with Patent Trim - $348
New for Spring, Coach has put a patent-spin on their very popular Carly bag. It looks great with jeans and its big enough to hold everyday essentials.
2. Eric Javits Shop Hop Satchel - $380
This light and airy bag would be great for summer. This satchel gives the look of straw, but its very durable at the same time.

For the funky mom:
3. Elaine Turner Medium Gabby Shopper in Tahitian Dream - $345
Have a funky mom? Well check out this giraffe print! This little shopper puts a fresh spin on the animal print trend.
4. Kate Spade Fisher Island Small Devon Bag - $295
Zebra print… need I say more? Wait, why is it called “Fisher Island”?

For the mom that carries everything with her:
5. Longchamp Roseau Embossed Tote - $370
Great everyday tote that’s appropriate for both work and play. This baby will hold a lot too, thanks to its expandable gusset sides.
6. Juicy Couture Premier Carry-On Tote - $225
Huge size and durable PVC fabric, plus it comes with its own little zippered pouch to hold the little stuff.

For the workaholic mom:
7. Steven by Steve Madden High Society Large Tote - $185
This croco-embossed leather tote features a divided interior. It would be great for organizing folders and files.
8. Monsac Iris Gloss Tote - $398
Large enough to fit a laptop computer, this patent tote is sleek and sophisticated.

All of these bags can be found over at Nordstroms. And don’t forget that they offer free shipping everyday on all orders over $200. So hurry now, Mother’s Day is just a short week away!

[ The Bag Forum: Great Gifts for Mom ]

April 30, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Summer Necessity: The White Handbag
White handbags are an absolute necessity for the summer. They go with so many summer outfitsYear after year I find myself in search of a white handbag for the summer. I often have a hard time finding a white handbag I like. There are many things to keep in mind and look for when shopping for white bags. A big problem with white bags is that they can easily look cheap. You really can’t go the cheap route when buying a white bag or else you’ll get what you paid for. You have to find something of top quality but also of a material that won’t pick up every grain of dust that falls on it. The extremely soft white leathers tend to pick up dirt very easily. You want a classic style that will last you beyond one season. After shopping around for a little, these are the top 2 white handbags that I found:

1. The Bottega Veneta White Woven Leather Large Tote: This is one of Bottega Veneta’s signature woven bags. It is truly a classic, and one that will remain in your closet for years of wear. The fine leather and construction makes this bag a quality, sturdy handbag with luxury and style to boot. The minor touches of gold hardware give this bag an added touch of individuality. This bag is the perfect white handbag because it can be worn with anything, for any occasion and will never go out of style. This is my favorite white handbag. And at 20% off you can now get this bag for $1,904.00.

2. Prade White Nylon Bow Pleated Tote Bag: This bag’s simplicity gives it a timeless look. It’s basic structure and nylon exterior give create a look that you can’t really go wrong with. The bag is contrasted with a silver leather strap and handles that contrast this bag’s basic style. This bag is also 20% off and a steal at $476.00.

Both of these bags can be found at Bluefly.com.

** end note: Also check out Deysa’s post on eLuxury’s ‘Allure of the White Handbag’

[ The Bag Forum: Summer Necessity The White Handbag ]

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

Sneak Peak: Marc Jacobs Fall 2008 Purse Collection
I’m not really sure what compelled me to visit the official Marc Jacobs website the other day. Perhaps I was bored or perhaps I was looking for something — I honestly can’t remember the reason for my visit. But you know what? I’m really glad I went! Why? Well, it just so happens that the new collection for Fall 2008 has already been posted! Well… at least the images have been posted. It looks like things are still under construction since there are no names or descriptions to go with these bags. I guess this is to be expected. I mean, it is April after all. Fall isn’t exactly right around the corner at the moment. Actually, I’m curious as to why they have these bags posted on the website so early. Oh well!

So what we have pictured above is simply a sampling of the new bags that will soon be available (The number of bags pictured on the website for Fall 2008 is staggering. The ones I have pictured above is just scratching the surface). Some are gorgeous, of course. I mean, what else would you expect from good ol’ Marc? However, there are also a few… um… interesting looking bags that have also wormed their way into the world of Marc Jacobs. Here’s what we have:

1. A black and tan leather satchel that can be worn either on the arm or the shoulder. It has a flap closure and a push-lock. Not really sure what is up with that chain though.

2. A dark, eggplant colored tote. It is a mix of quilted and plain leather. It also appears to have an exterior zip-around pocket and a double shoulder strap. Love the yummy color!

3. A Stam-style bag in purple ostrich. Not sure whether it is embossed or genuine. Can be carried on the arm or on the shoulder with the chain strap. Isn’t this one gorgeous?

4. A smaller shoulder bag in brown and tan leather. It has a flap closure and what appears to be a metal flower decoration. It also looks like the strap might be adjustable. Cute!

5. A brown leather tote with a tone-on-tone strip on the front. It looks like it has a zippered top and a pocket on the outside. Looks like it would be great for work!

6. A bubblegum pink ostrich shoulder bag… with a car on it? It has a flap closure and what appears to be an adjustable strap. Hmmm…

Sorry girls! These bags are so new that there are no measurements or prices available yet, otherwise I would definitely let you know!

You can view the entire collection over at the official Marc Jacobs website: marc jacobs

And watch for these bags to appear over at eluxury or SAKS. I’m sure that once these bags become available, you will be able to score one of them there!

[ The Bag Forum: Sneak Peak: Marc Jacobs Fall 2008 Purse Collection ]

April 23, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Designer Purse Looks for Less!
While we all desire designer handbags, we can’t always afford their hefty price tag. In those occasions, we must put our couture yearnings on hold and find a more realistic solution to our handbag cravings. Lucky enough, many mall stores and brands offer cute and trendy bags at prices that anyone can afford. Many of the bags are even designer inspired.

The first picture on the upper left features cute, colorful, and mod-inspired bags from Newport-news.com. They are the framed contrast bag and feature a patent trim and decorative buckle. This bag retails at a low $69 and gives you a great designer look.

The second picture on the upper right features the Uniquely Yours Croc Tote from Ninewest.com. This croc embossed patent tote retails at a very fair $89 and gives you the chic look of other designer crocodile print bags.

The third picture on the bottom left features the Studded Polkadot Tote from Forever21.com. It contains a faux leather trim and polished metal studs and retails at a low $26.80. This bag is so trendy and cute and really embraces the season’s biggest trends.

The last picture features the Xhilaration Quilted Satchel bag in yellow. Yellow bags are one of the biggest trends of the summer and you can get your very own for only $19.99 at Target.com. This bag has a quilted texture similar to the quilted look of many of our favorite designer handbags.

While these bags may not last you a lifetime, their low price tags make you feel no remorse after tossing them out at the end of the season. They are stylish bags that get you the designer look you want without the designer price tag.

[ The Bag Forum: Designer Looks for Less! ]

April 22, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer
Celebrate Earth Day with these Eco-Friendly Bags!
Happy Earth Day everyone. In celebration of this day, of course I thought it would be suiting to put up a post of a couple stylish earth friendly bags.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hippy Miss Marc & Penguin
I just spotted these on the Marc Jacobs official website. There the latest Fall 2008 bags from the designer’s second, less-expensive (than his main line) Marc by Marc Jacobs line. Look like Miss Marc has transformed once again to an eco-loving hippy. Very cool. Plus look at that penguin tote, how cute is that? None of the proceeds from these bags go to any organization, but it sure gets the message out – in a fashionable and adorable way.

Find it @ MarcJacobs.com

Juicy Couture California “Go Green” Bag
BagBliss blogger Deysa said this about the this Juicy Couture tote: Do you want a bag that literally makes a statement? If so, look what I discovered via Saks Fifth Avenue’s website, a new design to the California canvas totes by Juicy Couture. This California Go Green Canvas Bag is a roomy tote that displays the words “GO GREEN” throughout the front of the bag. Arrows forming a “recycle” heart can be found on the tote’s opposite end. The tote’s message is self-explanatory, basically this bags significance is to make a change and to do it in style! Now I’m not going to ramble on and on about the advantages of going green, but I do feel that the whole recycling and reduction of daily materials concept, does have an importance when it comes to changing simple habits for the good will of Mother Earth.

On this tote, you can find a full canvas body made of recycled organic compounds. It’s printed (green) interior reads “Juicy Couture” and the brands Yorkie pups can also be found on the totes front end corner. If you’re in search of a grocery shopping bag, a travel or book bag that isn’t going to hurt your pockets, why not this one? It’s durable, cute and only 75 bucks!

Find it @ Saks Fifth Avenue for $75

Beau Soleil Reduce, Recycle & Renew Bag
Three words: Reduce, Recycle & Renew. The eco-conscious newbie from designer Beau Soleil wants you and everyone around you, well anyone you walk past, to have mother earth on their conscience 24-7 and remember to Reduce, Recycle & Renew. A fashionable way to encourage environmental friendliness..

How much will this RR&R tote set you back? Not much. Each organic raw-cotton canvas tote retails for $44. It features a couple easy access, snap-patch pockets on all sides, spacious interior ideal for a market sack or beach tote, and a couple snap closure pockets in the interior.

Find it @ Saks Fifth Avenue for $44

Leftover Bags Realfashion Tote & Thankyoulady Tote
Plastic Bag Facts:
- Each year, an estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide. That comes out to over one million per minute. Billions end up as litter each year.

- According to the EPA, over 380 billion plastic bags, sacks and wraps are consumed in the U.S. each year.

- Hundreds of thousands of sea turtles, whales and other marine mammals die every year from eating discarded plastic bags mistaken for food.

- Plastic bags don’t biodegrade, they photodegrade—breaking down into smaller and smaller toxic bits contaminating soil and waterways and entering the food web when animals accidentally ingest.

John Baker & Robin Lee, the anti-plastic tote designer’s behind the brand Leftover Bags, created these two bags. At this moment Leftover’s is sold exclusively at ShopBop, where you will spot only 4 designs by these designers. Pictured above are my two favorites from their current line: Realfashion Tote made of organic-cotton canvas and decorated with a recycle symbol fashion show graphic at front and logo graphic at back. Thankyoulady Tote which is also made with organic-cotton canvas and detailed with girl graciously picking up a plastic bag graphic.

These bags would make a great shopping tote in replace of those plastic bags. Plus they only retail for only $38 a pop.

Find it @ ShopBop for $38

[ The Bag Forum: Celebrate Earth Day with these Eco-Friendly Bags! ]

April 21, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Gossip Girl Fashion
Gossip Girl is one of the hottest new shows on TV. It could be because it is full of young, hot, rich New York City kids. It could also be because they have one of the hottest most chic wardrobes on TV. These kids turn a normal school girl outfit into a runway hit. These aren’t your average teenagers. Instead of Wet Seal and Forever 21 these kids go to school in Chanel, Dior, and Burberry.

The first picture features Blake Lively, who plays Serena van der Woodsen, in a chic outfit and the Burberry Warrior Bag. This leather shoulder bag features a dark silver stud design. It is one of the hottest bags of the season, and as Blake Lively has proven, looks great when walking down the streets of New York City. You can find this bag on NeimanMarcus.com for $3,195.00.

In the second picture, Taylor Momsen, who plays Jenny Humphrey, is wearing her ever-so-fashionable school girl outfit, accessorized with the Valentino Maison Studded Bag. It is a soft amethyst leather with all over pleats and gold-tone studs. You can find this bag on NeimanMarcus.com for $2,495.00.

The third picture features Isabel carrying the Salvatore Ferragamo Marisa bag. It is in a yellow ostrich leather. This bag turns her school girl uniform from basic to glam.

Now, not all teens may be able to afford Burberry, Valentino, and Ferragamo, so we’ll just stick with admiring the chic bags on Gossip Girl.

[ The Bag Forum: Gossip Girl Fashion ]

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

Fashion on Film: Bride Wars
Every once in a while, Hollywood graces us with a movie that provides us fashionistas with stunning fashion and enviable style to drool over. The characters are like walking advertisements for the most famous designers. The last movie that I can remember of this stature was “The Devil Wears Prada.” I watched it again recently, and a couple of years later I still love the haute fashion worn in the movie. The next movie for us to look forward to with fabulous fashion is Bride Wars. This movie isn’t based on anything fashion related…but more like brides and weddings, but it features to of Hollywood’s hottest and trendiest actresses, Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson. I have seen some on the scene shots from this movie and the outfits and accessories are tres chic.
The above picture features a shot from the movie featuring Anne and Kate. They are both carrying two extremely cute bags. Anne’s bag is the Coach Gigi Leather Tote. I found it on Coach.com for $658. Anne’s bag is in the walnut color and also comes in camel and black. It features turnlock details and vintage leather. This bag is roomy and chic and is the perfect everyday bag. It also comes in great colors that can go with almost any outfit.

Kate’s bag is the Tod’s T Bag tote. It features black patent leather and large front pockets that give it a funky appeal. It’s large and roomy and gives your outfit that extra spunk. I found it on saks.com for $1,500. This bag definitely makes Kate’s character look like a stylish diva.

I can’t wait until Bride Wars comes out, not just because I love these actresses but because they give us high expectations of what type of fashion we can look forward to. This should definitely be a fashionista film.

Coach Gigi Available: Coach, Nordstrom
Tod’s T Bag Available: eluxury, Saks Fifth Avenue

[ The Bag Forum: Fashion on Film: Bride Wars ]

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 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

eLuxury’s ‘Allure of the White Handbag’
Spring is here and a hot new trend found in handbags right now are pretty whites! Just like a classic black bag, I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a white handbag. If you head on over to eLuxury’s website, you can find a page dedicated to the hottest designer accessories available in the neutral hue of white. Four random accessories listed above would make a perfect edition to your spring bags collection.

Marc Jacobs Collection Patchwork Ines has got to be my white bag of choice. It’s such a pretty piece with such a classic vibe. I admire the white quilted grained leather, and the gold hardware of choice compliments the handbag, finely. The chained handles are very luxurious, they are definitely capable of turning a few heads towards you.

Craving logos instead? If so, the Fendi Forever seems like a great everyday tote. Within, you can find this bag divided into three main compartments, making this tote extremely spacious. Sporting Fendi’s famous “F’s” on clean white patent leather, it’s sure to please any logo crave in style.

How about a clutch? Everyone should own a great clutch for those bag-less days and evening outings. Dior carries the pretty Vinyl Cannage ‘D’ Clutch and Juicy Couture has their elongated clutch. You can find flap top closure and decorative adornments on both of these pieces.

Whether you prefer the tote, satchel or the everyday clutch, each piece is lovely and any would make a great addition to the stylish white accessory trend.

Discover eLuxury’s complete white handbag list, here: eLUXURY

[ The Bag Forum: eLuxury’s ‘Allure of the White Handbag’ ]

April 10, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Patents: Pick Your Style, Pick Your Price
Patents! It’s the so-called “new” fashion trend for spring 2008. So what does that mean? Be on the look out for patent coats, shoes, accessories, and (of course) handbags. Most likely, every store in the mall and every boutique downtown is going to be littered with patents.

Do I like patents? Sure, I do! Who doesn’t like patents? Somehow patents just make every color look more delicious. Red patent reminds you of a shining red apple and blue patent reminds you of the deepest, blue ocean. Just simply being patent can make all the difference in what would otherwise be a “boring” bag. I can’t imagine I’m the only one that feels this way, otherwise patents would cease to exist. But nope, they have been holding on strong season after season. Why not just say that patents are a classic now and call it good?

So what do I have pictured above? Well, I thought it would be fun to show patent bags from two different price ranges. I swear I was trying to find bags that were comparable in size and appearance, so please forgive me if something looks a little off! So whether you’re in the mood for a tiny clutch or a super-sized tote, you are sure to find one that’s just perfect for you in patent!

Clutches
1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Posh Turnlock Convertible Patent Clutch (left)
Retails for $298
Find it here: shopbop.
2. Fendi Large Patent Baguette (right)
Retails for $1,680
Find it here: eLUXURY

Satchels
3. Dooney and Bourke Large Patent Flat Tote
Retails for $185
Find it here: Dooney
4. D&G Dolce & Gabbana Karen Patent Satchel
Retails for $1,295
Find it here: Nordstrom

Totes
5. Tory Burch T Contrast Patent Tote
Retails for $325
Find it here: Nordstrom
6. Tod’s Restyled D-Bag Tote
Retails for $1,550
Find it here: Saks Fifth Avenue

[ The Bag Forum: Patents: Pick Your Style, Pick Your Price ]

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 ]