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 6, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Tory Burch Floral Print Totes
Lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of floral appliqué on clothing, shoes and on my favorite accessory, handbags! It’s really no surprise since; floral designs are totally hot for the summer. Floral appliqués, if done right, add a nice feminine touch to any accessory. One of the many artists who put some type of blossoms on their pieces is American designer, Tory Burch.

One of Tory Burch’s best selling items would have to be her popular tote bags. They tend to come in various hues, different patterns, and sport the brands well-known reflective “T” logo. The latest “do” in reference to Tory Burch’s tote bags would have to be bright florals. Are you all feeling the florals? Whether you like the bright orange blossoms or if you prefer a bright pink and yellow palm print, either design is currently only available for fall 08’ pre-order format, only.

Personally, I do find Burch’s totes to be sort of cute (well… some of them), and although they are no “couture” handbag, I think they’re pretty enough to wear on casual outings or shopping trips. How do you Bagista’s feel towards Burch’s floral totes? Would you wear them? If so, preorder yours today via Nordstroms (dot com).

[ The Bag Forum: Tory Burch Floral Print Totes ]

April 25, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Coach Soho Signature Cotton Purse Line
I swear Coach never fails to release new handbag styles and designs each season, this is something I really like about the name brand. It seems like a new line of handbags are released one day, and shortly after, another squad of newbie’s are ready to follow. Most of their items are fun and seem to conform well to the latest trend. With that said, I lean towards quickly getting tired of the “trendy” style, and seek a new bag to fulfill my modern crave (or bag obsession).

I ran upon this Coach signature cotton style line, I must say, its vibe is pretty appealing. The cotton material is perfect for spring, and with the bodies’ vintage cream colored base, its sure to hide those annoying dirt marks we all get on our handbags from time to time. Coach’s signature C’s also carry some alterations. If you are a signature lover, and tend to like the various patterns of the infamous C’s, you should consider adding this pretty to your collection. The vintage vibe is truly cool, and with those brown, cream, and gold hues, you’re sure to not have a hard time trying to match your outfit with your handbag. Another nice feature found on the Soho Signature Cotton line is thick braided flat handles, which are a plus in my book! Who doesn’t love comfy leather shoulder straps?! So what do you ladies think of this Coach line, do you like it?

Shop Coach online at Macy*s

[ The Bag Forum: Coach Soho Signature Cotton Purse Line ]

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 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Juicy Couture California “Go Green” Bag
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!

Get your Green Tote, here: Saks.com

[ The Bag Forum: Juicy Couture California “Go Green” Bag ]

March 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Designer Beach Bags
It’s almost that time of year again…the sun comes out…time for bikinis, sunscreen, and sand. Every Fashionista needs to look just as good on the beach as she does on the streets and with that comes designer beach bags. Many designers have blessed us with stylish beach totes that look fabulous on the beach or a night out on the town afterwards.

Marc Jacobs has come out with this stunning yellow beach tote (also available in black & retailing at $1,095). The smooth grained leather gives you the finest way to carry around your most valuable beach necessities. With this bag, you definitely won’t go unnoticed on the beach! Dior has graced us with its ever so chicness and has come out with the St. Tropez Animal Print Beach Bag retailing at $1,300. St. Tropez is right! This bag is the perfect accessory to finish up your classy beach look on St. Tropez, the French Riveria, or why not even the Hamptons! This may not be your typical beach bag but is fully equipped for all of your beach necessities and totally glams up your beach wardrobe! Juicy Couture has also come out with a few fashionable beach bags. The first one is the Beach Surfrider Tote retailing at $225. The patent leather trimming and metal hardware really vamp up this vinyl bag from typical to funky. It’s also great because you don’t have to worry about any water damage! The second Juicy Couture bag is the Malibu Beach Tote. This cute, girly bag comes in pink and yellow…and better yet, comes with a matching beach towel!

With these designer beach bags, every Fashionista can make a splash! You can find these bags at eluxury.com..

[ The Bag Forum: Designer Beach Bags ]

March 16, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Juicy Couture Daisy Daydreamer Tote
Head on over to Nordstrom (dot com) now and check out what I recently discovered, meet the Daisy Daydreamer Tote by Juicy Couture. I have got to admit, this bag totally brings out the inner girly-girl in me! I’ve always been a fan of the daydreamer tote, with measurements of 14” x 9.5” x 6, it’s such an everyday bag, plus, Juicy Couture never fails to release a new design each season. White crinkly patent leather can be found on top of this tote, including on its adjustable eight inch shoulder straps. The gold plated brass hardware compliments well with the white leather, giving the bag that vintage feeling. Decorative trinkets and beads hang freely off the bag, and of course, the logoed scarf tie is still found in its usual place. The most noticeable detail found on this daydreamer would have to be the pretty plaided pattern of pinks and greens that give off that fun spring vibe. I can totally picture myself carrying this daydreamer all (spring) season long, I also feel that the $195 price tag is truly reasonable. So what do you bag fanatics think? Would you wear this bag? Or would you definitely pass? One thing for sure is, I can’t wait for spring to come!!!

Find Juicy Couture here: Nordstrom

March 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Juicy Couture Beach Flower Tote Bag
Who’s ready for spring? I know I am, and apparently, Juicy Couture is too! One of the brands latest items is the Juicy Couture Beach Flower Tote Bag. Most girls like flowers; (I know I fall into that category), but I can’t imagine myself carrying around a fake floral arrangement on my shoulder! This floral bag is definitely a bit too much for my taste. Juicy Couture’s Beach Flower Tote contains dozens of three-dimensional blossoms covering the body of the bag, an open top for instant access, the brands name etched on its shoulder straps, and measures 13” x 13” x 9”. I will also mention that this tote is completely made out of PVC! No hardware, no leather, no canvas, just pure PVC! The Beach Flower Tote can be found in four different hues, crystal (pink), white, green, and yellow; and is available now for low price of $95 through Nordstrom (dot com). So what do you bag-fanatics think of this beach tote, yay or nay? Would you sport this bag at the beach? Or would you rather carry something a bit less noticeable, such as a nice canvas bag? One thing for sure is that, this Juicy Couture beach tote is definitely water proof!

Get this beach tote, here: Nordstrom

March 6, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Eco Fashion: The Beau Soleil Reduce, Recycle & Renew Tote
One of the biggest issues facing the world today is global warming and the environment. It remains to be one of the most discussed topics at the presidential debates and has sparked a lot of public interest. Many public and private groups have been formed in order to battle this serious issue. As of recently, the environment is becoming a main issue in the fashion world as well. Many eco-friendly clothing lines have been formed and are becoming a big hit with fashion-goers.

Beau Soleil has introduced a new eco-friendly bag made of recycled raw cotton canvas and rope emblazoned with the words “Reduce, Recycle, Renew.” It can be found at Saks 5th Avenue at a very fair and reasonable price of $45. While this bag does not consist of ornate metals and leathers, it is charming and cute. It’s simple and jeansworthy – a great every day bag to carry on a shopping trip or to school. It also promotes an important message. It may not scream FASHION, but it does scream ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY, a very important and admirable statement to make.

Find it here: ShopBop or Saks Fifth Avenue

February 27, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Tory Burch Tote vs. Steve Madden Bag
As I stumbled upon Steve Maddens’ Perforated Patent Tote, the name Tory Burch jumped into my head. Why, you might ask? Well, take a look for yourself. Both bags share obvious similarities, such as, the same bag shape, both bags also measure in at 17”W x 16” H. You can find long straps attached to the body of the totes by a round gold rivet insertion. You can also find a magnetic snap closure inside both bags for security purposes. Both bear perforated embellishment on its front side; Burch’s tote sports its recognizable reflecting T’s (Burch’s signature logo), while Maddens tote is perforated with some type of symbol I can’t really make out. Of course the most obvious comparison between Burch’s and Madden’s creations would have to be the high-shine patent leather body. So what differences do these two totes have? Burch’s tote comes in a variety of hues, including new color combinations, such as Turquoise on Yellow or Tangerine on White, which will be available soon as they are part of the Burch’s Spring 2008 collection. While, Madden’s tote is adorned with a detachable charm piece. You can obtain Madden’s BJENN bag for $38 through Steve Madden (dot com) or get the original Tory Burch tote via Nordstrom (dot com) for $325.

Find it: Tory Burch Designer - Handbags - Nordstrom

February 25, 2008

Free Marc by Marc Jacobs Sailboat Tote
Lately the weather has been turning for the better, and I couldn’t be any more excited. Time to box up those heavy winter jackets and bring out the fabulous spring / summer clothes. And if you are hunting for the latest cute spring styles, like by MJ for instance, shop at Saks Fifth Avenue and get matching free MJ sailboat bag with a $300 Marc by Marc Jacobs apparel purchase.

The free tote, looks like your average cotton bag, but you can’t complain – it’s free with $300+ purchase. The Marc by Marc Jacobs tote is simply made of cotton with dual shoulder straps, a summery sailboat print and measures a spacious 16″ width x 14″ height x 4″ depth - use it as a day tote, as a shopping sack, or beach bag.

One per customer

One per order

All you have to do is enter promotion code MARC8B at checkout after stuffing your (online) shopping bag with $300 worth of Marc by Marc Jacobs contemporary women’s apparel.

Wont last for ever. The offer is valid at saks.com through Sunday, March 9, 2008 at 11:59pm(ET) or while supplies last. While supplies lasts, and since the average M by MJ item retails for around $300, that means almost everybody who shops MJ will receive this Sailboat Tote.. which means it may cut a little short of the march 9th deadline.

Shop Saks Fifth Avenue

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

Martin Margiela MM6 Convertible Terry Beach Bag
Seriously, who ever would have thought to create a beach bag that transforms into a comfortable mat? That would be innovative designer Martin Margiela for MM6. And if you ask me, I think this is a wonderful idea for the upcoming summer. Now you can conveniently tote around your mat and carry all of your beach necessities without struggling to lug everything around. I think this is especially great for mothers because they could easily carry a load of beach toys for their kids and still be hands free. And if it get’s dirty, you can just throw it in the wash. I think this combo is a great alternative to carrying a separate tote and a mat.

The Convertible Terry Beach Bag by Margiela’s MM6 is made of soft plush terry cloth. There are two handles made of canvas for carrying or toting. There are zip closures on each side of the bag and when unzipped, it is elongated to create the perfect, comfy mat for basking in the sun. What’s also great are the two button tabs at the bottom which allow the bag to be adjusted when rolled up. So if you happen to be carrying less, you can make a little change to the size of the bag. As for the color, I’m not really a fan of yellow but I love this shade. You can get it for this summer for $235.

See it here: Maison Martin Margiela MM6 - Convertible Terry Beach Bag - eLUXURY

February 17, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Coach Signature Stripe Patchwork Bag Collection
Once again, here’s another newly added member to Coach’s famous family of patchwork creations. The new Signature Stripe Patchwork collection for the spring has just recently made its debut online and in stores. This season’s collaged handbags feature pieced together multi-colored and multi-textured patches with none other than Coach’s signature logo. In this line, shades of pink, purple, white and blue are combined with metallics and one of Coach’s older signature styles called Khaki Brown. The variety of materials seen include Nappa leather, suede, signature jacquard fabric, crinkle patent leather and metallic cowhide. Although these traits are nothing new, basically another jazzed up version with multi-everything and a huge emphasis on the Coach brand is pretty evident. The Signature Stripe collection includes a few bags, a swingpack, and some accessories such as wristlets, wallets and a cosmetic pouch. Shown above is the tote.

Back when Coach came out with what I believe was called the Hamptons Patchwork collection, I had purchased a hobo. It was great for that spring and summer as its variety of bright colors and patterns were appropriate for the season. Though, I never used the purse again and I should have known better that its trendiness would sooner than later cause my investment to be wasted. The new collection is somewhat appealing but I couldn’t see myself wearing one of the bags after they retire. However, I think a small item such as a wristlet or cosmetic pouch would be an adorable addition to any accessory collection and could be used over again. The prices for this collection by Coach range from $48 to $398.

See it here:
Coach Official Site
Macys
Nordstroms

February 4, 2007

Longchamp Nylon Foldable Tote
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!

Plus they come in so ma