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 ]

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 ]

March 31, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alica

Exotic Collections by Dooney & Bourke
During my last visit to the DB website, I was very surprised to discover some great new lines featuring exotic skins and a few new handbag styles. Usually, my stay over in Fuglyville (dooney.com) is always shortened by some new disgusting and far from appealing line of handbags. But this time, I was actually quite impressed with two new lines that I saw, which are the Ostrich and Croc Bags collections. Since I am totally in love with these exotic skins in particular, there were a couple of bags that I would actually buy from them. Also, colorful and bright exotic materials are definitely a hot trend for warmer weather.

The first collection that I saw was the Ostrich line. It includes about six different handbag styles and seven colors to choose from. My favorite one is the Cinzia Bag, shown above, in either camel, mustard or fucshia. Though, I wish there were more color choices for this line. But I love how the shape of this bag is simple yet creative with two small slanted pockets in the front. It comes in three different sizes which are small, medium and large. For me, I’d probably opt for the small size, which is actually roomy and measures 12″x 5″x 18″. And for a price of $295, I definitely think this bag is worth it.

The second and last exotic line is the embossed Croco collection. I’m such a sucker for croc handbags, whether the skin is faux or not, so my opinion is probably biased. This line is older but Dooney added about six new styles with plenty of shades to choose from. The one that caught my attention was the new Sara Bag in lilac (featured above), sky blue and red. Again, I love the two slanted pockets in the front and also the tote style of this purse. The only drawback on this one for me is the top magnetic snap closure as I prefer a zippered one. But I think I’d make an exception for this bag. The price borders $400 ($375 to be exact) and I’m not too sure if i’d spend that much on a DB bag. This is one that I’d have to see in person and decide then.

See the new Ostrich and updated Croc collections by Dooney & Bourke at any one of these online stores: Macy*s, Nordstroms, and Dooney.com

[ The Bag Forum: Exotic Collections by Dooney & Bourke ]

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

Dooney & Bourke New Quilt Handbag Collection
Could it be that Dooney is actually taking a step away from their fugly streak?!?! Well, from their presentation of the New Quilt collection, it looks like DB has created a normal and wearable new line. This new and appealing handbag collection by Dooney & Bourke is available in about 12 different styles and plenty of great colors for the upcoming warm weather. Shown above is the new Medium Elisa Bag in sand-cream-taupe, which measures 17″x 6.5″x 10″ ( a little on the big side for me). It also features two creatively slanted pockets in the front, twisted strap detailing, and comes with a price tag of $245.

I’d have to say that I like this new line by Dooney. It is definitely more subtle than other collections by them, which is why I think it’s appealing. Lately, we’ve seen a lot of Dooney disaters that are overly busy and just plain ugly. But I think the New Quilt collection is a great variation of their Quilt line. I also like how it comes in different colors such as sand, green, yellow, blue, and pink. Overall, I’m liking this design and also some of the bag styles that are offered in it.

Click here to see more DB handbags available in this collection.

Dooney & Bourke bags are also available at these locations: Macy’s and Nordstroms

March 22, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Dooney & Bourke Rainbow Hearts Bag Collection
Dooney is at it once again with their latest, and most certainly not greatest, Rainbow Hearts handbag line. The new collection for Spring and Summer just made it’s way onto the official Dooney & Bourke website and is offered in about nine different handbag styles and a few accessories. And from the looks of it, this line must be targeting and is fit for pre-teens and younger. Honestly, I can’t picture anyone older carrying a piece from this collection. Though I must say that it’s not as disastrous as others we’ve seen by DB such as the Miami, Candy and Texas lines. Dooney’s fugly streak has been pretty consistent, and this line is just another member of the Tacky Club.

Anyways, the new Rainbow Hearts line by Dooney & Bourke features…well, a bunch of orderly colored hearts that barely allow the exterior to breathe. The prices of the handbags range from about $145 to $275. And shown above is the new Nicoletta Tote, which is at the higher end of the price range with a cost of $275. The colors used are red, pink, blue, green and yellow, which definitely give off a warm weather theme. So, what do you think about the new Rainbow Hearts bags by Dooney & Bourke?

Click here to see more bags from the new DB Rainbow Hearts line.

Designer Dooney and Bourke Bags can also be found at these locations: Nordstrom and Macys

February 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Dooney & Bourke New Regatta Bag Collection
What can I say about DB? Their recent lines have caused many of us to scratch our heads and wonder who in this company would think that these horrid designs would actually appeal to handbag lovers? For example, remember the Candy line? Or how about the Texas collection? And you couldn’t have forgotten about those sausage-shaped Emma bags. But anyways, Dooney is at it again with their new Regatta line. Although I am not a fan of this collection, I must say that it definitely isn’t as dreadful as the others we’ve seen.

The Regatta bags by Dooney & Bourke come in white, red and blue. They feature a white leather trim, which is another thing that I’m not crazy about. Currently, this collection is offered in about seven different handbag styles, with one being travel size, and there are a few accessories to match. Shown above is the Large Sac w/Twisted Strap and it retails for $255. I think this collection looks a little sporty because of the bold emphasis of “DB” and “75″. It’s almost like DB is trying to dress up some bags in their own jersey or something. So which social/age group is this suppose to appeal to? The patriotic sporty chic who loves bags? What do you think of Dooney’s new Regatta line?

Shop for Dooney & Bourke at Dooney, Macys, and Nordstroms

December 29, 2007

WWD: Top 12 Designer Handbag Brands of 2007
WWD recently published their top 12 picks for 2007, and I am so disappointed. I mean who did they interview? Label whores? When I think of last years best sellers, or even memorable bags that could have been found on the lists of thousands of handbag fans, I wouldn’t pick a bag by some of the designers below. Coach number 1? How can that be. And Ralph Lauren? The only bag that comes to mind is the birkin-looking Ricky bag. I have nothing against the brands below, I’m a fan of a couple, but I don’t think this list is very accurate.

Click here to continue reading this post and view the top 12 list.

November 16, 2007

Introducing: The Dooney & Bourke Metallic Mambo Handbag Collection
Finally, new to the halls of Dooney & Bourke it’s a metallic handbag line that’s suitable for all ages. No stupid cartoon figures. Most of the bags in this line are oversized like in the overnight style with a few large purse styles mixed in. Since these bags are new to the D&B site, I’m sure there will be more sizes available within days.

This winter Metallic Mambo handbag collection is available in 12 shimmering colors - black, black/black, gold, hot pink, ivory, light blue, lime, pink, red, silver, tangerine, and yellow.

November 8, 2007

The Limited Edition Dooney & Bourke Hayden Panettiere Designer Handbag
Last season Emma Roberts was the star “handbag designer” over at Dooney & Bourke, which resulted in the ugly sausage-looking weiner bag (I’m sure you dooney fans know what bag I am talking about).

Now for the winter season handbag collection, the designer fashion brand Dooney & Bourke has a fresh new addition to their “Designed by a Celebrity” hall of fame - Hero’s super star Hayden Panettiere.

Pictured above is the juicy new addition to Dooney’s Limited Edition handbag line. It will retail for slightly more than the average Dooney and Bourke handbag since it is a Limited Edition piece. The retail of this bag is about $500. Mark your calendars, this newbie will be available early December – right before the Holiday season! How convenient.

September 19, 2007

Introducing Dooney & Bourke Plaid and Patched Plaid Collections
More plaid coming your way from the teen-targeted brand Dooney & Bourke. Within the last month or so DB added two new collections to their family, the Plaid and the Patched Plaid.

The plaid line comes in the (boring-)beige colored plaid print but is available in multiple leather trim colors to choose from (black, rouge, saddle, dark chocolate, brown, or ivy). On the other hand, there is the multicolored plaid print pieces patched together for the other new line.

Like most other DB bags, the price range falls anywhere from $45 for the Flap Wristlet and on up to $300 for the Domed Satchel.

Discover the Dooney & Bourke Plaid and Patched Plaid Collections

July 22, 2007

Harajuku Lovers VS Dooney’s Candy
Both bags named “Candy” are dressed in a suit of taste-y candy. But who does it best? Which would you wear? The eye-catching Dooney and Bourke candy tassel handbag or the Harajuku Lovers Candy (even though there isn’t really any candy - more of sweets) tote?

Personally my vote is for the Harajuku Lovers Candy tote. It’s more casual and comfortable to carry as a on-the-go day bag. I can totally see myself using it as a beach bag or in replace of my market tote which I have been using a lot lately in replace of using plastic bags. The Dooney bag is unique (not favored in the Bag Forum) but there is just too much going on. The design is cluttered. The Dooney bag is like a candy bin and the Harjuku is like a handful of your favorite sweets.

What do you guys think? Dooney or the Harajuku Lovers??

Discover the DB Candy Line (currently all on sale)
Price Range: $98 - $200

Discover the Harjuku Lovers Candy Line
Price Range: $74 - $100

June 25, 2007

Dooney’s Sausage: The New Emma Roberts Bag
So about that Emma Roberts Dooney Bag… some of you may have seen the Extra video staring Emma Roberts about her bag that “she designed” for Dooney and Bourke. How quickly we all forgot the original Emma Bag that she had a part in designing. I’m not saying that she did or didn’t help out in designing this second version, but I am saying that her first kick at it sucked, big time. And yes I’m sure the designer’s over at the D and B headquarters realized it and pushed for this newer (I guess) improved design. Do I like the new Emma Bag?? Well, it sure is a lot more nicer looking. But I’m still going to have to go with a nay on my side. It looks like a sausage wiener from the side!!

Details on the improved Emma Roberts Bag: The new and improved sausage-looking bag is made of buttery soft glove leather, with bridle leather trim and solid brass hardware. Available in two sizes – The small size measures 11″ length x 4″ width x 4.5″ height and retails for $210. The larger size measures 15″ length x 4.5″ width x 4″ height and retails for $235. And is available in eleven colors, from basic black and brown to red, white, and marine blue.

Discover the Dooney & Bourke Emma Roberts Bag
Price: $210 - $235

June 8, 2007

Designer Dooney & Bourke Canvas Carryall Handbag
Back to basics, Dooney & Bourke traded in the cartoon drawings and signature prints for the classic canvas carryall handbag line. The unstructured travel bags are dressed in canvas (either blue, red, tan, or yellow) with white handles and detachable shoulder strap.

What I love most about the Dooney & Bourke Canvas Carryall Handbag is that you are getting designer quality without the designer logo plastered all over it’s body.

Price: Up to $300
Discover the Dooney & Bourke Canvas Carryall Bag

May 8, 2007

New Purse Alert: Dooney & Bourke Donegal Handbags
The Donegal handbag line is one of the newbies from the DB giant brand house. Actually it was released around the same time as the Jumbo Collection made its debut. But unlike the Jumbo collection, this one does not rank very highly in my mind.

The saddle bag pouch motif image design is boring and the hobo style is nothing new to the brand, it’s one that they use over-and-over every season only with a new dress. I do admit though, the sac shape is pretty comfortable and rests well on the shoulder, but besides that this bag really has nothing to offer – style-wise.