April 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Fendi Plum Leather Spy Purse
When I hear the word “Spy”, I think Fendi. In the past, I’ve heard some bagista’s state that Fendi’s Spy bags and their craze towards them is over. Whether you agree or disagree with that claim, the House of Fendi is still releasing their infamous spy bags in a variety of fabrics, colors, and textures.

Take for example the Spy pictured up above. I adore it! This spy arrives off of Fendi’s Spring/Summer 08’ collection bandwagon. I like how fresh and simple its style is. In the past I have (and I know you guys have too) seen those Spy’s that come drenched in an excessive amount of tacky decors such as beads, furs, fringe, and other awkward embellishments. Adornments are nice, but they mustn’t be swimming all over the place, especially on what should be a nice couture handbag.

Fendi didn’t fail to impress me with this Spy. Even the combination of silver and gold hardware is acceptable, since I tend to like just one tone of hardware on my bags. The distressed plum leather is a perfect color for this S/S season. On this Spy, you surely won’t find any awkward decors; instead, just pretty Fendi leather dyed in a luscious hue!

Shop Fendi @: NET-A-PORTER.COM

[ Fendi Plum Leather Spy Purse in The Bag Forum ]

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 ]

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

Safari Bags
Ohhhh…take me to the jungle! One of Spring’s hottest trends is the safari look. From khaki clothing to woven wedges, wooden bangles, and animal print bags, the safari look is all over the place. Prints like zebra, cheetah, giraffe, and leopard and textures like crocodile and snakeskin leathers adorn this season’s hottest bags.

The first bag featured is the Michael Kors Large North/South Tote. This bag is made of giraffe printed canvas with grain leather trim and brush metal hardware. It retails at a fair $298 and is large enough to fit all the necessities and even good enough to take on a jungle expedition. The second bag featured is the Fendi Extra Large Fringed Zebra Baguette Tote and retails at a more hefty $5,420. The bag consists of zebra printed pony hair and leather fringe. This bag is wild and fun. The multicolor fringe gives sets it apart from the typical zebra print. The third bag featured is the Dior Runway Dior Jazzclub Zebra Flapped Bag and retails at $3,510. This may be my favorite of the bunch. It is funky and captures the trendy safari theme but still remains chic and sophisticated. This bag is very versatile and can be worn with a khaki, safari inspired outfit or with a little black dress. The final bag featured is the Loeffler Randall Snakeskin-Stamped Envelope Clutch. This bag is made of Shiny snakeskin-embossed leather and features polished gold metal hardware. It is the perfect little safari clutch and may even fit some bug spray for those humid nights in the jungle!

All of these bags can be found at eluxury.com.

March 20, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Spring Fendi Spy Bags
Ohhh thy coveted spy bag how I yearn for thee….Fendi has decided to indulge us this spring with a couple of new Spy Bags…The Metallic Spy Bag, The Beaded Spy Bag, The Island Spy Bag, and the Paillette Spy Bag. Each bag similar in shape and figure but very different in color and style. While these bags come with a very hefty price bag, they offer much for the eye.

The Metallic Spy Bag is a bright gold pebble-grained leather retailing at $2,560 at eluxury.com. The metalicness of this bag speaks for itself. It is a great bag to carry around with almost any outfit and is a little more subdued than the rest of the Spring Spy bags. The Beaded Spy Bag, may be the funkiest of them all. It comes in bright orange pebble-grained leather, ornate multicolored beading and golden fringe encircling the bag, and Zucca Print textile lining. This bag also offers the heftiest price retailing at $6,260 at eluxury.com. The Island Spy Bag comes in white textural grained leather with ornate multicolored beading and raffia fringe encircling the bag and Zucca print textile lining. This bag retails at $4,970 at eluxury.com. The Paillette Spy Bag comes in brown soft peddle-grained leather with decorative multicolored leather paillettes on the front and rear, with gathered sides, and the signature Zucca jacquard lining. This one retails at $4,890 at eluxury.com. With all of these different colors and styles, Fendi has offered a Spy Bag to appeal to all.

Find Designer Fendi Spy Bags: Net-a-porter, Saks Fifth Avenue or eluxury
On Sale: Bluefly

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

Fendi XL Fringed Zebra Baguette Tote
Here we have one of the latest designer disasters, the Fendi XL Fringed Zebra Baguette Tote. There are plenty of gorgeous bags by Fendi but the tacky clash of rainbow colored fringes and zebra makes this one look like a mess. I’ll start by saying that I’ve never been a fan of fringes on bags and never will be. Though as I’ve mentioned previously, exotic animal prints have always appealed to me and with that being said, I think this piece by Fendi would be great without the fringes. Or Fendi could have at least used matching black and white ones. And it gets worse because this is a ridiculously expensive one with a price tag of $5,420. But I’m assuming that the price is high because it’s made of pony hair.

I’m sure anyone who wears this one will get many stares. And I don’t mean that in a positive way. It measures 20″x 11″x 4″, which makes it stand out even more. But anyways, other main details on this XL bag include a suede interior, a multicolor shoulder strap that can be adjusted from a drop length of 14″ to 20″, and brushed gold metal hardware.

See it here: eLUXURY

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

Fendi’s Paint-Your-Own Baguette
Well this is a first! Fendi has come out with their very own “Paint-it-Yourself” bag. For a mere $1,300 you can practice your painting skills on a top designer bag. It is the Paint-Your-Own Baguette Tote. It is a coated canvas white bag with a removable belted shoulder strap, a polished gold metal logo-engraved appliqué on each side, double-F logo on the front, multicolored cartoon-like logo textile lining, and ten Pantone Universe markers to paint our bag with.

This bag is great if you have always yearned to get creative with your designer handbag. It allows you to make the bag unique and your own. Needless to say, you won’t find anyone carrying the same exact bag. Personally, if I am going to practice my painting skills I’d much rather do it on a cheap canvas tote from the local craft store. These top designers charge top dollar for a reason, and it is because they deliver. They are the ones who come up with the creative ideas and execute those ideas to offer us unique, quality, trendy handbags. I don’t think this is one of Fendi’s best ideas. I’ll keep my painting skills for the canvas.

Discover it: eluxury

end note: Jennifer also wrote about this bag, see what she said here: Fendi Artist Baguette Bag: The DIY Project

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

Fendi B Bowling Bag
Fendi’s famous giant B buckes are back again this season and flying solo as seen on the new patent leather Bowling Bag. I’ve always been a fan of the B bags by Fendi, and I think this season’s new model is perfectly detailed with a single centered oversized B buckle and a lovely pleated top. It is a wonderful alternative to Fendi’s other bags that commonly feature two large buckles inseatd of one. Also, the shape of the Bowler bag is another great variation as well and is spacious measuring in at 14″x9.5″x7″.

What I love about this bag, besides the buckle, are the chain link shoulder straps on each side with a leather panel placed where the straps would normally fall on your shoulder. I think this provides comfort and is practical as I could see an entire chain strap getting caught on clothing or even becoming hot after being in the sun. Also, the slight orange stitching detail adds minimal color to the bag, even though I’m not a huge fan of orange. I think the orange and white compliment each other very well. And you don’t have to worry about when you set this one down because there are protective feet at the bottom. Shown above is the white patent leather version and it is also available in black patent leather. Last but not least, the top features a zip closure and there is a pocket on the inside with a small Fendi signature plaque neatly displayed on a leather piece.

See the Fendi B Bowling Bag here: NET-A-PORTER.COM

February 29, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Fendi Multicolored Doctor B Bag
With gorgeous shades of bright colors like orange, yellow, blue and pink, the Acid Multi Fendi Doctor B Bag is perfectly fit for spring and summer, which are just around the corner. This smooth grained leather piece with a team of colors that blend to form a rainbowish look will definitely turn curious heads. And if you’re a little more on the subtle side, there is also a Pastel Ombre version which features lighter, softer tones. No matter which option you choose, wheather it be the stand-out vividly Acid Multi or the elegantly playful Pastel Ombre, you are sure to add a unique and colorful season-perfect piece to your wardrobe.

The new Multi B Bag by Fendi is slightly embellished with brushed gold metal hardware which is shaped in downsized versions of the famous buckle seen on previous B bags. These B buckles are on the shoulder strap which can be adjusted from 9″ to 7.25″, and also seen on the bands on each which allow the capacity of the bag to be adjusted. The frame top with magnetic closure is detailed with lovely pintucked pleats on both the front and back of the bag. the interior is lined with fine textile lining and conevniently has a leather trimmed zip pocket for your cell, keys, etc. This bag is the perfect size for carrying everything you need and measures 16.5″ x 10″ x 6.5″. I absolutely love everything about this new piece by Fendi, except for the price tag of $1,840.

Go over the rainbow here: Fendi - Multicolored Doctor B Bag - eLUXURY

February 21, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Designer Fendi Mini B Clutch
I was always a fan of the Fendi B Bags, particularly the shoulder bag as the buckles were more appealing on them. And when I saw the mini B Bag clutch, I thought it was adorable. Here we have the B Clutch by Fendi in shiny orange leather with black stitching. I know, sounds kind of Halloweenish, but it’s actually quite lovely. Though it wouldn’t be my first choice as I’m not a huge fan of the color orange. But anyways, it also features two fine and delicate brass straps for carrying. They look so thin that I’d be afraid of breaking them, but then again, it’s made by one of the highest quality designers so I’m sure they’re very durable.

I love this mini version of the B shoulder bag by Fendi, especially the little (giant to the clutch) buckles on the front. Another great detail is the tiny Fendi logo exhibited on what is suppose to be a representation of the metal fastener that slides through a hole on a belt. This piece would definitely add a little glamour to evening wear. Also, there is enough room to carry a few small items as it measures 8.5″x 5.5″ x 2.5″. Even the handle drop length, which is 5″, allows you to carry it comfortably. And I can’t forget to mention that it’s on sale for 30% off or $826 marked down from $1180!

See it here: Fendi Mini B clutch - NET-A-PORTER.COM

February 21, 2008

The Orange Designer Fendi Chef East West Bag
With all the fresh new additions to the halls of net-a-porter it reminds us all how spring is knocking on the other side of the door. And with that we get a bunch of brand spanking new designer handbags, ripe for the picking.

One of the delicious newbies is the Fendi Chef bag. Well, it’s the same old Fendi Chef that was released years ago, only a new dress – a tasty new tangerine orange color. I don’t know if I’m more in love with the bag or if I’m just really craving an orange right now.

I like the color on this bag. It stands out. There are so many new bags on the violet and blue side of the color spectrum, so it’s nice to have another option floating around out there.

Discover this Orange Fendi Chef at net-a-porter
$1,360

February 19, 2008

Designer Fendi Artist Baguette Bag
Feelin a little creative? Fendi has just the thing to fill your free time, the Artist Baguette.

For this DIY project you will need $1,300. For that price, you will get a box of special Fendi markers and a plain white leather ‘baguette style’ bag, minus the signature logo pattern. Although, all you friends will know it’s Fendi, with the interlocking “F” magnetic closure on the front flap.

I don’t know about this whole artistic paint it yourself project idea, for me. I guess if I was super artistic then I would take a crack at. However, I lack that special artistic trait when it comes to painting or drawing.

Also I would rather pick up the signature Fendi white Anniversary Baguette for $300-less over at Saks Fifth Avenue, then when I get sick of it a couple months later (like so many of my bags), I will pawn it off on one of my arty friends to have a go at it.

What do you guys think of this idea? Do you wish that more designers had DIY projects like this? Or should the creativity be left to the designers.

Find the Fendi Artist Baguette Bag at Neiman Marcus for $1300 (preorder)

Find the Fendi Anniversary Baguette Bag at Saks Fifth Avenue for $995

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

Celeb Style: Fendi Black Patchwork “To You” Bag
From the looks of it, celebs love their convertible Fendi “To You” bag. Pictured above is blonde beauty Cameran Diaz toting her Fendi bag in day-out-mode, and actress/socialite Byrdie Bell carrying one in dressed-up-style as an evening clutch. Two great examples of how the “To You” bag can easily transform from day wear to evening glamour. Finally there is a purse that not only expands carrying options, but can also go from one extreme to another. How innovative is that?

Featured above is the black patchwork edition with a combination of luxurious leather and soft suede. The top of the bag consists of a panel with acrylic linings and a zip closure with a snap at one end. There is even a zippered pocket on the interior for quick access to your cell, keys, etc. The straps are 6.5″ in drop length, making it comfortable for the shoulder, and converting this into a clutch is easy because you just fold over the handle. When the panel is folded over, the measurements are 18″ x 9″ x 2″.

When I first spotted these last year, I honestly wasn’t a fan. I guess the whole panel detail at the top didn’t appeal to me. As I discovered the birth of new styles and realized how practical and useable, but still fashionable these are, I became an admirer. You can use it in more ways than one, while having enough room for all of your needs and look stylish. What’s not to love about it?! So for me, it’s definitely a “yay” for the “To You” purse by Fendi.

You can tote it daily or carry it nightly for $1,595.

Find it here: Fendi - Black Convertible “To You” Bag - eLUXURY

February 12, 2008

Forever21 Bags
Why am I not surprised? In this day in age it is not a shocker when you hear about a lower label replicating or inspiring their designs after a high-end designer’s work, especially when you are talking about Forever21.

There are other companies guilty as well, but by far Forever21 is up there as one of the top (popular) chains that mass produces cheaply made items that are highly similar if not identical, minus the designers logo, to that made by a designer. Clothes, jewelry, handbags, you name it. F21 copies it all.

F21 is recognized for their huge selection of inspired-by handbags and even been hit with a few lawsuits for copyright infringement. But is that slowing them down? No. Odd isn’t it? You would think that with all the lawsuits against the forever21 chain they would resist from copying other designers works. You would think. I wonder who buys these bags anyway. Is quality over quantity not in everyones best interest anymore? The plastic F21’s just seem like a waste of money and probably wont last more than 2 weeks of wear.

Anyway, here’s the latest inspired-by versions:

F21 does the Fendi Spy Satchel
This is no big surprise.. Ever since the Fendi Spy bag was declared an “IT bag” years ago, F21 added it to their interpretation to their product stock.

The F21 faux leather (plastic) hobo retails for $29.80. Which is still a waste of money. Right now you can find a couple Fendi Spy Satchel on sale over at bluefly.

F21 does the Marni Balloon Bag
Even the Balloon bag by designer Marni isn’t safe.

The F21 plastic sack retails for $31.80, while the Marni purse carries a retail price of $1,317 over at net-a-porter.

F21 does the Botkier Bianca Bag
On the right is a tacky plastic version of Botkier’s hit piece, the Bianca satchel.

The plastic F21 purse can be found for just under $20, while the Bianca over at Shopbop retails for $595.

F21 does the Tod’s Nylon Messenger Media Bag
Nooooo. Not my beloved Tod’s Media bag! I love the fashion brand Tod’s. Classic, been around for years and have never had a problem with knockoffs, well not nearly as bad as other designers.

The satin F21 version retails for $17.80. The real deal retails for $775. Find at eluxury.