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

Valentino Noeud Tote
I’m a true fanatic of Valentino Garavani’s luxurious and feminine designs. I always look forward to seeing what new items Valentino presents to the World of Fashion, and just take a look at this newbie. Fresh off the runway, the Noeud Tote isn’t exactly my favorite Valentino, and with all due respect to any fans out there, I can’t decide whether this piece is inspired by a feminine bow or straightjacket design. What a great piece was emerging, until that clutter in the middle settled in. The concept of buttery Nappa leather and the tier of ruffles were fine details, but seriously, what is going on right in the center? Must its details really have been so complicating? Would a nice and identifiable bow detail have been more pleasant? Or maybe a different color would have improved this piece. Eventually, every designer will come out with something that isn’t a crowd pleaser, and I don’t know what you ladies think, but personally, I’m not in awe over this tote. Valentino handbags do cost a pretty penny, as the Noeud Tote does carry a steep price tag of $3,495! Ladies, what’s your input on this tote, and most importantly, would you wear this?

Pre-Order this Valentino over at Saks.com

Chat Now: Valentino Noeud Tote

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

Valentino Petale Tote Variente Purse
Gentlemen, if you wish to really awe a lady, I suggest you get her Valentino florals over fresh ones, instead!

For the past couple of years I’ve been a great fanatic of Valentino Garavani and his works. I find his pieces to be edgy with feminine features still present. A perfect example of this can be found in yet another one of his designs housing a giant floral detail, meet the Petale Tote Variente. Whether you like this piece or not, you must admit the detailing is stunning. To think how buttery nappa leather had to be manipulated to create a floral silhouette is pretty charming. Personally, I would dress this bag up with pencil skirts or simple dresses, yet I have no doubts that this piece can be worn with the good ‘ole reliable jeans and tee shirt. Just like all other tote bags, you’ll find the double shoulder straps and a roomy interior on this Valentino. Ladies, how do you feel towards this piece? Would you sport such a head-turning detail on your handbag, or not? If you love this piece, you can find the Petale Tote in red or black at an astonishing price tag of $2,395 over at: Saks Fifth Avenue

[ The Bag Forum: Valentino Petale Tote Variente Purse ]

July 1, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Valentino Cassis Couture Bag
Here is yet another unique handbag design by one of my favorite Italian designers. It truly is different and at the moment, I have yet to see inspired bags sporting its style. Meet the Cassis Couture Bag by Valentino. This Valentino is definitely a couture bag, so couture; I personally don’t think it would make a great everyday bag. There’s just something about its plush-suede body that seems a bit too fragile for my busy lifestyle. I imagine rain would leave watermarks all over its soft leather, and too much exposure to sunlight might fade the luscious Berry color a bit. Yet I look at its artistic woven design and the great braided leather handles, and its just so tempting. If Valentino produced this same handbag in grained leather rather than soft suede, I know I’d consider adding it to my wish list, but until now, I’ll just continue admiring the Cassis Couture bag. Other great features found on this Valentino includes; gold hardware, feet to prevent the suede from scuffing, and a lovely structured silhouette. Ladies, if you have $1895 to spend on a hot Valentino purse, definitely check this one out; just imagine what a great smelling bag you’ll own!

Shop Valentino Garavani goods at: Saks.com

[ The Bag Forum: Valentino Cassis Couture Bag ]

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

The Bow Bag Trend: Chanel vs Valentino
To some, the bow is a cutesy, feminine little twist while to others, it’s one of those tacky adornments that’s often referred to as a bride’s maid’s nightmare. But lately, we’ve seen designers such as Valentino add a stylish bow to some of their handbags and smaller purses or clutches. And honestly, I use to be on the other side, in total fear of my future bride’s maid dress having one of those gigantic bows on the lower back. Ok, so how does that relate to handbags? Well now, after seeing the latest bow trend emerge from high end handbag designers like Valentino and Chanel, I’ve completely changed my view. They’ve taken this trend to a totally different level by minimizing the tackyness and turning a giant sized bow into a purse. So let’s now talk about the Valentino Bow Clutch vs the Chanel Satin Bow bag.

We’ll start with the Chanel version since it came out first. When I saw this bag after it’s debut, I loved it. A huge giant sized satin black bow with detailed pleating, a touch of classic Chanel diamond shaped quilting, and new-style CC closure – it seemed like such an elegant, more formal bag with an emphasis on feminiity, obviously, from the oversized bow shape. And also, the chain strap added a true Chanel feel to this piece. The size of this one is on the bigger side, measuring 19″ by 16″ with a 9″ strap drop length. But honestly, I don’t know how I’d feel carrying this one all dressed up for an event or special occasion. I pesonally think it would have been better suited as a smaller bag. And what’s the price tag on this one? Well, I’m not sure of the exact price but there is currently one on ebay going for $2,100. Now I definitely would never pay that much for this, unless of course I had the money to blow.

After every original design, those that are inspired by it are always just around the corner. With that said, it looks like perhaps Valentino loved Chanel’s idea of turning a big bow into a handbag. The second photo pictured above shows Valentino’s Bow Clutch in red, and it comes with a detachable strap. It also comes in pink and black satin. Personally, I think the red is a bit too loud and reminds me how bows can be tacky in the first place. But I think the black version is more subtle and very elegant. As for the size of this one, I’m not exactly sure but it is called a “clutch”, so I’m assuming it’s a smaller purse and more fit for an evening out. The price tag is much less than the Chanel bag, but is still hefty at $1,095. I also wouldn’t pay that much for this one.

So out of the two in the bow bag battle, I’d have to say that I like the Chanel Satin Bow Bag better than the Valentino Bow Clutch. The reason being is that the Chanel bag just looks nicer overall, whereas the Valenitno doesn’t have the nice chain strap and whose appearance is more bow-ish. But I’m definitely a fan of the new bow-shaped handbag trend.

See the Valentino Bow Clutch over at Neimans, and the Chanel Satin Bow Bag can be found at Chanel

[ The Bag Forum: The Bow Bag Trend. Chanel vs Valentino ]

June 19, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Valentino Fango Nappa Blossom Petale Handbag.
Over the last half year or so with the introduction of the Valentino Blossom Satchel Bag and the Historie Purse I have discovered a new obsession with Valentino handbags. Those bags, as well as the other new additions to the house are so stunning, and have been on the top of my want list!

Pictured above is one my favorite newbies to Valentino flower rose line, the Fango Nappa Blossom Petale. Available only in the color clay (at this time). This beauty features layers and layers of buttery leather, that spiral around to form a lush rosette pattern. I am such a sucker for rose designs. Additional noteworthy features: This bag is accessorized with golden hardware, feet to keep your bags bottom from picking up germs, a secure top zip closure, a cotton lined interior spacious tummy with a capacity of 13.5″ width x 12.5″ height x 5″depth, plus double strap options for either carrying by hand or over the shoulder action (double top handles have a 4″ drop / detachable crossbody strap, 11.5″ drop). Right now the Fango is available at saks fifth avenue for $ 2495 preorder.

I know what you vintage YSL fans are thinking. Of course this spiral rose design should look familiar.. do you guys remember the Yves Saint Laurent Nadja Rose purse? Oh yummy, that was like one of the first designer bags when I was a teen-ie that triggered my bag obsession.

Yves Saint Laurent Nadja Purse.
Above is a vintage campaign pic of the lovely Nadja purse, designed back in the early 2000’s (I’m pretty sure this bag debut spring 2003) by the fabulous one and only Tom Ford. This bag as been long sold out, however if you’re lucky you can spot one on ebay.

Side Note: In 1999, Gucci acquired the house of Yves Saint-Laurent and Parson’s educated Tom Ford was named the creative director of that label. During his time as Creative Director for YSL, he won numerous Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards. That shouldn’t be a surprise, his ready to wear designs were amazing. His departure date from the house of YSL was in April 2004.

And the bags look pretty similar don’t you think?

One common problem with the YSL Nadja was that the rose design flattens over time. I sure hope the Valentino Fango beauy doesn’t have the same problem.

So what would you guys rather have? A vintage YSL Nadja rose bag or the newer Valentino Fango Patale purse version?

Current Discussion: Valentino Fango Petale Handbag VS Yves Saint Laurent Nadja Purse

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 ]

April 21, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Gossip Girl Fashion
Gossip Girl is one of the hottest new shows on TV. It could be because it is full of young, hot, rich New York City kids. It could also be because they have one of the hottest most chic wardrobes on TV. These kids turn a normal school girl outfit into a runway hit. These aren’t your average teenagers. Instead of Wet Seal and Forever 21 these kids go to school in Chanel, Dior, and Burberry.

The first picture features Blake Lively, who plays Serena van der Woodsen, in a chic outfit and the Burberry Warrior Bag. This leather shoulder bag features a dark silver stud design. It is one of the hottest bags of the season, and as Blake Lively has proven, looks great when walking down the streets of New York City. You can find this bag on NeimanMarcus.com for $3,195.00.

In the second picture, Taylor Momsen, who plays Jenny Humphrey, is wearing her ever-so-fashionable school girl outfit, accessorized with the Valentino Maison Studded Bag. It is a soft amethyst leather with all over pleats and gold-tone studs. You can find this bag on NeimanMarcus.com for $2,495.00.

The third picture features Isabel carrying the Salvatore Ferragamo Marisa bag. It is in a yellow ostrich leather. This bag turns her school girl uniform from basic to glam.

Now, not all teens may be able to afford Burberry, Valentino, and Ferragamo, so we’ll just stick with admiring the chic bags on Gossip Girl.

[ The Bag Forum: Gossip Girl Fashion ]

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

Valentino Blossom Satchel Bag
With it’s floral detailing of scrunched, twisted and pleated leather that portrays the shape of a flower, the Blossom Satchel by Valentino is absolutely gorgeous and perfect for upcoming warm weather. It’s available in both pink and black, which are both lovely. Though since Spring and Summer are just around the block, I’d personally opt for the pink version. Lately, I’ve been scoping it out online over at Neiman’s and Saks, and I seem to love it more each time. And besides it’s main blossom depiction, the next best thing about this piece are the shiny gold snakeskin handles. I think they add an amazing touch to the satchel, especially with metallics being ‘hot’. Though that brings me to another thought I had about this purse.

The only reason why I’m hesitant on buying the Blossom Satchel is where it exactly falls on the trend meter. I’m unsure if this would become more of a classic or if it’s on it’s way down a hill carrying the weight from the term “It” on it’s back. Honestly though, I don’t see anything about it that makes it too trendy or “over in a minute”. The textured leather with a floral influence is both feminine and elegant, while metallic elements (the handles) are becoming more accepted as classic. For me, with a steep price tag of $1,895, it’s definitely one to make sure of.

So, what are your thoughts on Valentino’s Blossom Satchel and what it will eventually become?

See the pink and black versions over at Neiman’s or Saks Fifth Avenue