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 our 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 ]

April 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Marc by Marc Jacobs Wheely Luggage
Summer 08’ vacation anyone? If so, then right about now, you should already have a guideline of where to and when, right? I’m pretty sure you’ve also planned out the hotel reservations, travel tickets, gasoline expenses, an appointment at your local vet to animal-sit, a home onlooker, and so on.

What type of luggage do you use? Do you travel in style with your couture designer baggage? Or are you a victim of the simple black duffle bag? If so, why not invest in luggage?

Over at shopbop (dot com), I ran into two luggage pieces designed by (one of my favorite designers), Mr. Marc Jacobs. These two pieces were selectively made for the Marc by Marc Jacobs line. On the left side of the screen, you have the Patent leather Wheely in juicy red. With luggage sporting an in-your-face hue such as this one, it seems like your guaranteed to never lose your bag, ever! If that piece is a little too busy for your taste, then check out the Standard Supply Canvas Wheely. It’s simple, yet different, and its uni-sex too! Careful, the boy-toy just might keep it for themselves.

Like all other wheely luggage, you can find roller wheels, a push-button trolley handle, zippers, compartments, and hidden pockets on these two pieces. Now I never claimed that these are the prettiest designer luggage out in the market, I’m just stating that these are great Marc by Marc Jacobs travel pieces!

Shop Marc by Marc Jacobs at Shopbop!

[ The Bag Forum: Marc by Marc Jacobs Wheely Luggage ]

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 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 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Designer Bags for $250 or less
You know that you really have a problem when you find yourself smuggling purchases in to the house when your husband isn’t home. I sure have one! Here is my typical post-shopping routine:

I usually put stuff in the trunk of my car and wait until the next day when he goes to work. I’ll go out, gather up my loot, hurry it all in to the house, and fit a place to hide it. If its a handbag, I usually take it out of the sack and place it among my other bags in the closet. Yep, it will blend in there. Right? Oh, and I must not forget to hide the receipts and intercept any bills that could be coming to the house. Now I just have to wait a little while so that when I do use the new bag, I can truthfully say that its not “brand new”.

I think my problem is that I just buy too much stuff in general. I love shopping and its especially fun when I track down a bag I have been craving. Lately though, I thought maybe I need to find a cheaper way to satisfy my urges. Okay, okay, I could just stop buying stuff. But what fun would be in that? So I came up with another solution! Pictured above are some designer handbags that won’t break the bank! That’s right, they are all $250 or less. Best of all, I tried to cover a wide variety of tastes. That means that there should be something for everybody!
So here they are (from left to right):

1. B. Makowsky Splendid Hobo
This leather hobo is made of soft, supple leather and it measures 14 1/2″ x 12″ x 5 1/2″. It retails for $250 and is available at: Nordstrom: Designer Collections and Top Apparel, Shoe and Beauty Brands

2. Juicy Couture Dogtooth Premier Tote
This roomy tote comes complete with a little zippered pouch inside. It measures 15″ x 15″ x 6″ and retails for $250. It is also available at: Nordstrom: Designer Collections and Top Apparel, Shoe and Beauty Brands

3. Francesco Biasia Perfect Harmony Handbag
A canvas and leather handbag that would look great on the beach. It measures 13″ x 12″ x 7″ and retails for $238. It is available at: Citizens of Humanity, T-Bags, YA-YA and More at Pink Mascara

4. Sloane & Alex Snakealicious Self Handled Clutch
Odd name, but a nice little snake print clutch that is available in either gold or pewter. This little guy measures 12″ x 7″ x 4 1/2″ and retails for $245. You can find it here: True Religion Jeans, Juicy Couture, Seven Jeans, Citizens of Humanity at Revolve Clothing

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Luxe Laminated Swifty
Well, at least you won’t have to worry about this one out in the rain. This little satchel measures 10″ x 12″ x 7″ and it retails for $248. It is also available in orange and is available at: Juicy Couture, Seven Jeans, and More - FREE SHIPPING - shopbop.com

This is also a perfect solution for college students and stay-at-home moms that might be on a tight budget. It is pretty difficult finding designer bags for $250 or less, but as you can see, it was possible!

[ The Bag Forum: Designer Bags for $250 or less ]

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

Marc by Marc Jacobs Lady L Satchel Purse
With so many vibrant shades of blue to choose from this season, I think I’ve found the perfect blue hue that suits my taste. The new Totally Turnlock Lady L Satchel from MbMJ comes in a deep blue color called midnight. I’m really loving this darker blue because not only is it great for a summery nautical theme, but it can also be worn year round. I’ve seen a ton of electric blues and turquoise colors that are strictly for Spring and Summer. But the Lady L Satchel in midnight would be great for any season. And for a price tag of $448, I think that for those on a budget, like myself, this is a great investment alternative to blowing accessory allowances on a handbag that will only be worn for a few months out of the year.

Not only do I love the deep midnight blue colored leather, but I also like the minimal gold hardware details, including the turnlock closure on the front. I think the gold metal and darker blue leather really compliment each other. Another huge plus is that the straps are long enough to allow comfortable wear over the shoulder. And this bag would definitely be able to hold everything I need to carry since it measures 11 1/4″H x 15 3/4″W x 5 1/2″D. It is also available in earth and grass.

See the MbMJ Lady L Satchel at any one of these designer shops: Neiman Marcus, eLUXURY, Shopbop

[ The Bag Forum: Marc by Marc Jacobs Lady L Satchel Purse ]

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

December 18, 2007

Designer Handbag Sale: extra 20% off sale items @ eluxury
[pictured above: Dior Saddle, Marc Jacobs Quilted Ryder, B. Fendi Lamé Pleated Medium Bag]
That’s right everybody, right now over at our affiliate site eluxury they’re slashing prices once again in hopes off clearing out their handbags in the sale section. Before most of the bags were marked down up to 40% off, but now for today (Tuesday the 18th) only you get to take an additional 20% off (automatic at checkout). These bags are going for a steal.

Right now in the sale section you can find designer bags from Zac Posen, Gryson, Tod’s, Michael Kors, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture, Derek Lam, Lamb, Fendi, Dior and more.. go enjoy the savings!

Side note: Not only do you get an extra 20% off for today only (Tuesday 18th), but you also get free shipping and a guarantee that your package will be delivered before the 24th.

Go Discover the Sale!

December 7, 2007

Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turn-Lock Teri Tote
Marc Jacobs Totally Turn-lock Terry is totally a bag worth looking into. Like I have said before, Marc by Marc Jacobs bags are known for being incredibly light, functional, and of course, those thick padded shoulder straps are such a plus. Also this bag is very spacious with three large separated compartments with two large easy access front pockets. What is this like the perfect day bag? Like most Marc by Marc Jacobs designer bags, this one rings in at a little bit over $400. Worthy of every penny.

Discover the Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turn-Lock Teri Tote
Price: $428

November 21, 2007

Miss Marc is well rested for Spring 2008!
Have you seen Marc Jacobs little Miss lately?

I don’t know about you guys, but I am a huge fan of Marc-ey Marc little Miss Marc, so every time Mr. Marc Jacobs comes out with a newbie, you can guarantee I will be obsessing over it.

The newborn Miss Marc bag that has caught my eye is the latest for spring 2008, the wide alert totally rested new Miss Marc.

In the past she has appeared like a grumpy sleep deprived little girl (see the images below).

What do you guys and gals think of the well-rested version?

November 14, 2007

Marc Jacobs the Reality T.V. Star!
“I’m really into my life right now. Everything, all aspects of my life. All the drama, the intrigue, the sex, the romance, the work. I’m a shameless human being… The whole thing’s sort of egotistical, I suppose, but I do find myself entertaining.” – Marc Jacobs

We here at Bag Bliss can’t help our obsession with designer Marc Jacobs. The man is a fashion genius. So naturally when new news rolls our way we must report it. The latest fresh news in the world of Marc Jacobs comes via female first, where it is reported that Marc Jacobs has revealed he wants to star in his own reality TV show. That’s right ladies and gentlemen, Marc Jacobs the reality star.

The designer was spouting off about his TV show idea at the Accessories Council ACE Awards, telling friends how he would love to show off all aspects of his life.

We here at Bag Bliss will be watching. Will you?

November 13, 2007

Designer Handbags for Under $300
The mission seems so impossible these days to find a quality designer handbag that retails for under $300, but luckily for those of us who don’t have a tree that grows money in our back yard there are a few “affordable” handbag lines that cater to us at an affordable rate. The most popular handbag brands that retail in this entry-level range are Juicy Couture, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and a few others that aren’t as well known but can also be found in this range, such as Acne Jeans handbags and Y-3 purses.

Or you can always stalk ebay or the mark down section for a “luxury” designer purse (Gryson Elissa handbag anyone?).

Here are my top picks…

Juicy Couture Baby Fluffy Designer Handbag
Dressed in patent leather with suede trim, accessorized with polished gold metal hardware. Also features rolled patent handles with link and decorative buckle attachments gathering along the top to add fullness, flapped side pockets with hidden magnetic closure, patent-trimmed suede bands that encircle the sides, golden clasp and signature Juicy ornament. The mouth of this bag is kept closed with the hidden magnetic top closure and buckled band and the interior is lined with the logo fabric and features two interior iridescent leather patch pockets and a leather strap with mirrored heart patch and clasp.

Discover the Juicy Couture Baby Fluffy Designer Handbag
Price: $295

Marc by Marc Jacobs Laminated Logo Swifty Designer Handbag
The handbag is created out of a vinyl-coated logo canvas with scrambled “MARC JACOBS” letters. Also features patent leather trim, aged brass hardware, rolled patent handles, and an engraved brass plaque on the front that reads: “Marc by Marc Jacobs, Standard Supply, Model #, Type: Workwear”. The mouth of the bag is kep closed with a zip top closure that slides open to reveal a striped textile lining and an interior cell phone pocket, patch pocket, and leather-trimmed zip pocket. The base of this bag has metal protective feet to prevent scuffing.

Discover the Marc by Marc Jacobs Laminated Logo Swifty Designer Handbag
Price: $248

Michael Kors Astor Large Designer Purse
Dressed in an eye-catching glossy metallic (gunmetal) grained leather and accessorized with brushed silver metal hardware studs. Also features double flat leather handles that are just the right length to rest on your arm. The top of the bag is kept closed with double zippers. The interior of this bag features a single interior leather-trimmed zip pocket, three patch pockets, cell phone pocket, and a leather strap with key clasp inside.

Discover the Michael Kors Astor Large Designer Purse
Price: $298

Y-3 Runway Canvas Tall Designer Bag
Dressed in simple black woven canvas with fine topstitching, and nylon handles. Features the signature white “Y-3″ logo applique on front, elasticized drawstring cord on each side, and a polished silver metal D-ring. The double zipper top keeps your items in place. The interior of the bag features a nylon and woven canvas lining, a single interior zipped pocket and flat smooth leather bottom (no feet)

side note: Don’t forget about your free gift with purchase! A pink lanyard. Portion of the sale will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Discover the Y-3 Runway Canvas Tall Designer Bag
Price: $230

Acne Jeans Parachute Nylon Designer Purse
Created out of a smooth quilted nylon with fine topstitching and features two sets of rolled nylon handles and an extra rolled nylon shoulder strap. The mouth of the purse is kept closed with a silver snap closure (no zipper). The interior of the bag is lined in nylon with a single interior zipped pocket with logo-embossed nameplate and pull tab.

side note: Don’t forget about your free gift with purchase! Acne Paper with any Acne Jeans purchase.

Discover the Acne Jeans Parachute Nylon Designer Purse
Price: $299