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 14, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Daniel the man bag blogger guy

Kravitz Overnighter with Free Enviro Tote by Matt & Nat
From the Matt & Nat Brazen collection comes the Kravitz Overnighter in nude vegan leather. This overnighter features vintage inspired vegan leather trims, antique silver hardware, faux suede lining, detachable shoulder strap, and two external pockets on the side. Perfect size for an overnight, this bag measures 17.75 in x 14.5 in x 6 in.

Part of the cruelty-free ideal of the Matt & Nat brand includes the use of vegan leather, which is a microfiber material that is an alternative to traditional leather.

Plus.. with the purchase of this bag you will receive a free (yah, I said free!) sweet Matt & Nat space-suit silver durable and reusable shopping bag with black nickel hardware and woven handles.

Also this bag is 100% recyclable and 100% biodegradable.

It’s the perfect enivro tote for light shopping, beach bummin’ it, etc.

This two bag combo is available through the Matt & Nat online store for $200 USD, which includes free ground shipping.

[ The Bag Forum: Kravitz Overnighter with Free Enviro Tote by Matt & Nat ]

May 13, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Dooney & Bourke Exclusive Canvas Tote
How does the All-American brand Dooney & Bourke rank with you bagistas? Some people find their handbags to be fun and unique, while others simply dislike the brand all together. For the past couple of years, Dooney & Bourke has been criticized for releasing incredibly awkward designs on their handbags and accessories. Bumblebees, Candies, Texas, and Miami are a couple of names of the not so popular designs by Dooney. For quite some time now, I was really looking forward to seeing a plain and normal looking handbag, and recently, the brand finally released one.

Meet the Exclusive Canvas Totes by Dooney & Bourke. These simple totes lack those wacky designs Dooney is known for, yet they seem great to take to the beach or on a picnic. Although they are “good” different, they are also quite boring! That boring plaided pattern just doesn’t do anything for me. Yes this tote is available in a wide variety of hues, but I just can’t imagine myself spending even the low retail price of $120 on one of these bags. What do you ladies think? Would you wear this bag, or is this line simply another Dooney & Bourke letdown?

Shop Dooney & Bourke accessories via Macy’s

[ The Bag Forum: Dooney & Bourke Exclusive Canvas Tote ]

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: Alicia

Coach Ergo Leather Convertible Tote
So recently, Coach has not only come out with a bunch of new handbags and accessories, but they have also decided to copy a design apparently. Is it just me or does their new Ergo Leather Convertible Tote resemble another designer bag? Perhaps the City Tote by F+C? That was my first thought. Here is the F+C City tote below for a comparison guideline:

So the City tote by F+C is totally innovative in the accessory world of handbags - it’s three bags in one. And inevitably, designers were going to snag this sturcture up and apply their label to it. The Ergo Tote by Coach is made of all leather, and can be worn three different ways, just like the one by F+C: on the shoulder, in the hand or as a clutch. And speaking of leather, the F+C bags’ leather seems more crinkly and soft, which is what I like. But anyways, this one is retailing for $478, while the original F+C tote is about $30 or less, and can even be less expensive if you find a deal. Coach did add a coin purse in the front of their version, which is something I’m not particularly a fan of. Also, the handles on the Ergo Convertible tote don’t look as appealing as the rounded and more comfy Foley ones. Overall, for the price and the originality factor of course, I’d opt for the Foley + Corinna City tote without hesitation.

So, which version would you pick?

See the Coach Ergo Convertible @ Macy*s

end note: Right now over at Shopbop, Foley & Corinna and other designer handbags are on sale for 20% off! Today only!!! code: MYDAY08

[ The Bag Forum: Coach Ergo Leather Convertible Tote ]

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 11, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Zac Posen Lil Zac Handbag
Nothing is more classic than a simple shape, like the crescent hobo. The clean lines, the elegant curves, the simple hardware. Yeah, its plain. But in my opinion, its plain in a good way. This bag doesn’t look too dressy or too casual. What does that mean? Well, that means that it can go both ways: dressy or casual. It just depends on what clothes you pair it with!

The Lil Zac Handbag seems to be an excellent example of a split-personality bag. Its so simple and classy. But if you happen to get it in the Canary Yellow, it can be really fun as well! I think the color gives the simple design of the bag just enough of a pop to give interest to any outfit. Mmmm… just imagine it with white trousers and a floaty black top. Or you could pair it with a casual yellow skirt and tee! Plus that rolled handle looks incredibly comfortable, doesn’t it? I am such a stickler for comfortable shoulder straps! One of my favorite bags is actually a Marc by Marc Jacobs bag with the most awesome strap I have ever worn!

The Zac Posen Lil Zac Handbag:
- Soft, pebbled leather
- Zip Closure
- Rolled Handle with an 8″ drop
- Measures 9″ x 12″ x 6.5″
- Retails for $1,195

Find the rest of Zac Posen’s Spring 08 Collection at shopbop.com

[ The Bag Forum: Zac Posen Lil Zac Handbag ]

May 11, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Coach Straw Floral Extra Large Tote
For quite some time now, I’ve realized that I’ve been craving and wanting to add a straw handbag to my collection. Before I continue, I would like to mention that “straw” is nowhere near my favorite handbag material; instead, I find it rather pleasing for the spring and summer seasons, only.

The perfect accessory to pair with pretty summer dresses and to take to the beach is a straw bag. Its light in weight, cute, and may also be somewhat durable. I believe a straw bag must be simple in design, with an exception to shiny hardware, leather linings, and maybe some adornments that won’t scream “tacky”, are ok.

Take a look at this bag by Coach. It’s called the Straw Floral Extra Large Tote. I can’t say I like it, but I do not hate it either. Overall, it’s a pretty cute straw bag but a bit too girly for my taste. Plus in my opinion, the $698 price tag is nowhere near convincing for a Coach straw bag. Maybe some of you bagistas might disagree with me when I say that somehow, I feel like you mustn’t splurge on a handbag made out of such fragile material. Now if we talk canvas or leather, then that’s a totally different story!

Shop COACH at Macy’s

[ The Bag Forum: Coach Straw Floral Extra Large Tote ]

May 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Foley + Corinna Jet Setter Jr. Tote
I have officially been converted into a Foley + Corinna handbag admirer. Thanks to the lovely members over at tBF, I have added, and soon plan on buying a piece of the All-American brand. It seems to me that Foley+Corinna’s most popular handbags have to be the city collection. Whether it’s the clutch, tote, or mid., the cities seem to be the brands best sellers. What’s not to love about the versatile cities? You have the choice of a tote, a shoulder bag, or a huge strapless clutch.

What about this handbag? What do you Bagista’s think about it? Yes, it’s a F+C bag, but it’s a bit different, well, really different. It’s called the Jet Setter Jr. Tote, and personally, I am a fan of it. It’s not as versatile as the city pieces; instead, it’s a nice size shoulder bag, (that’s if you’re a fan of big bags). With a seven-inch strap drop, I imagine it fits nicely snuggled under the arm. Turn locks and buckles are features that can be found throughout this bag. So girls, would you rather carry a popular city piece, or would you rather try the different look of the Jet Setter style?

Shop Foley + Corinna accessories, here @ shopbop.com

[ The Bag Forum: Foley + Corinna Jet Setter Jr. Tote ]

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

Fashion News: Weekly Round Up!

Time for our weekly fashion news round up.

Great reads on all the latest fashion news from other top highly rated sites.
Enjoy…

Stiletto Jungle has discovered no-slip strapless bras.

Bag Bliss’ Fantastic 14 List: Fourteen Fabulous Bags under $140!!!

Bag Snob re-visits with the Master of Elegance: Oscar de la Renta!

Beauty Snob learns how the Material Girl stays 50 and Fabulous!

Coquette finds fresh Summer looks in the color green.

Fashion Indie & Maurices announces Winner of Project Handbag, Christina Oertel

KRiSTOPHER shops the best black on sale.

My Fashion Life catches Giorgio Armani during his whirlwind tour of NYC.

Papierblog looks at the greatest fashion entrepreneurs and who is missing from the list.

Second City Style shows you how to get Spring Runway looks the vintage way.

Shrimpton Couture weighs in on the Costume Institute Gala

Dreading swimsuit season? Get your best beach bod with StyleBakery.com’s tips for finding the right swimsuit for your figure.

Celebs Spill to Stylehive at the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala!

WE LOVE BEAUTY.com wants you to VOTE for VOTE Look of the Month: April 2008Look of the Month April!

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

The SAK Glisten Patent Foldover Clutch
Ever since I won the gift card to the SAK in one of Jennifer’s fabulous giveaways (this was back before I was even a blogger), I have been receiving e-mails from the SAK. Normally when I think of this brand, I think of their signature crochet styles. I think the little mini bags are cute for a hippie-chic kind of look, but I really don’t like the big crochet ones. They sort of remind me of a fisherman’s basket or something.

Well, anyway, I received another e-mail from the SAK the other day. This one was promoting Mother’s Day specials. I was about the delete it when this image (pictured above) popped up. Hmm… what’s this? A patent leather bag that comes in pretty colors? So I went to their website to check it out. Here’s what I discovered: The bag is called the Glisten Patent Foldover Clutch. It comes in Black, Amber, Leaf, Raspberry, and White with this adorable print lining that was designed by Gilles Jourdan. And the best part? That silly braided strap is removable! Interestingly, it kind of reminds me of a Foley + Corinna bag, but at this price you can buy more than one! So if you’re looking for a simple, patent clutch then this just might be the one!

The SAK Glisten Patent Foldover Clutch:
- Removable Shoulder Strap
- Foldover Styling with Zippered Closure
- Three Interior Pockets (Two Slip and One Zippered)
- Measures 12″ x 1.5″ x 9″
- The Price? Only $109 Plus Free Shipping!

You can find it at their official website: THE SAK

[ The Bag Forum: The SAK Glisten Patent Foldover Clutch ]

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 8, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

YSL Large Muse Two Purse in Blue
When I recently visited the official Yves Saint Laurent website, I was presented with an ad of a model wearing the new Large Muse Two bag in blue. And I will say that I am totally in love with this piece by YSL. I was amazed at how gorgeous the bag looked on the model in the picture shown above. This bag is very elegant and sophisticated yet stylish from the hot exotic croc-embossed leather it is made from. Also, the shade of blue is a wonderful year-round hue to wear with anything.

The size of this bag is perfect for everyday wear. It measures 15″x7″x11″, which means there is plenty of room for carrying whatever you need. Also, another huge plus is the fact that the handle looks long enough to fit comfortably over the shoulder without a problem. The cetered golden hadrware piece located on the flap adds just enough detail to this bag. The only downfall is the price, of course. This one comes with a price tag of $1,895. But I don’t think that this would ever go out of style. Overall, I think this would be a great addition to any handbag collection.

See the Large Muse bag over at Saks

[ The Bag Forum: YSL Large Muse Two Purse in Blue ]

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

Valentino Pearlized Blue Historie Handbag
A structured frame sporting a luscious leather body and shoulder straps are features I adore and look for in relations to a hot handbag. At the moment my ultimate dream bag, (I have so many and it seems like I can never make up my mind), is the Historie handbag by Italian designer, Valentino Garavani. Ooh how I adore this bag so much! As much as I would love to own this handbag, unfortunately, my student budget gets in the way.

The Historie bag isn’t Valentino’s latest design; hence, it’s been out for quite some time. So then what’s the latest news in reference to Valentino’s Historie? It’s brand new pretty blue hue for one, and two, it’s gorgeous pearlized buffalo leather! In the past, Valentino’s Historie bags have been made out of different body patterns, including: solid soft leathers, patent leathers, straw, two-toned leathers, and metallic leather. Now, its all-new pearlized matte leather makes the list.

I bet some of you bagistas can agree with me when I say that these stock pictures don’t really justify the true beauty of the Historie bag. With that said, you must go see the Historie in real life. At the moment, I just can’t seem to get its weaved leather shoulder straps and it’s “snuggly” under-arm fit out of my mind!

Shop Valentino Garavani @ Saks.com

[ The Bag Forum: Valentino Pearlized Blue Historie Handbag ]