April 14, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

The Limited Louis Vuitton Fabrizio Plessi Epi Bag
Earlier this month Louis Vuitton opened up their new largest flapship store over in Hong Kong. For the new store, artist Fabrizio Plessi (a pioneer in video art in Europe), decorated Hong Kong’s new store with huge LED screens that feature molten gold cascading along side golden fixtures & walls. That’s not all for Fabrizio Plessi. The artist even collaborated with LV to create the Plessi digital bag (pictured above). Done in black epi leather, the bag has an LCD screen showing images of the same molten gold image through a cutout LV logo.

This bag is obviously a collectors item, reserved for only the rich and famous. This purse retails for (get ready,) a staggering $50,000 (us).

If your average purse budget can’t afford this limited edition style, don’t get your hopes up, Louis Vuitton has the almost identical Sac Plat tote in black Epi for only $1,290 over @ eluxury

… I really do mean almost identical. Pretty much it’s the same Louis Vuitton sac plat minus being touched by Fabrizio and featuring the LCD screen, also of course the price is hugely different.

I really like the Sac Plat style. It’s a great everyday style. It’s the orginal shopping companion. The Sac Plat was created back in 1968, it was the first bag by Louis Vuitton dedicated to shopping. The size measures in at 14.3″ x 14.9″ x 3.5″. Which is ideal for shopping. Who wants a bulgy bag getting in their way?

For more information on the video art Plessi bag contact Hong Kong’s Canton Road location @ (852)8100.1182
Or check out the similar Sac Plat Epi leather bag @ eluxury

[ The Bag Forum: The Limited Louis Vuitton Fabrizio Plessi Epi Bag ]

April 2, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Convertible Bag: The Antrobus by Alison Antrobus
I was doing some online shopping and came across a most unusual bag. It was unlike any other bag I have ever seen. On the outside it looked like a stylish, chic handbag, but the inside consisted of complex compartments and design. It combined architecture and fashion into one bag to create a stylish and practical way to carry around your most prized, everyday necessities. This bag is the Antrobus Bag created by Alison Antrobus. It is a handbag/drawer set/clutch converting bag. It was created to suit any and all of your needs. The Antrobus Bag is black leather with brushed golden accents. It begins as a geometric carryall where a two-drawer box can be pulled out and detached, making the top portion of the bag a smaller shoulder bag. The bottom portion of the bag can be zipped off and used as a clutch. The bottom portion of the bag is offered in additional colors allowing you to change the look of the bag.

This bag is amazing! Its more like 3 bags in one…a large carryall, a smaller shoulder bag, and a clutch. It retails at $1,250 at vivre.com and three bags at that price definately isn’t a bad deal. The Antrobus Bag provides style, function, practicality and organization. This certainly is a bag of all trades!

Shop @ Vivre

[ The Bag Forum: Convertible Bag: The Antrobus by Alison Antrobus ]

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

Diesel Mitchell Briefcase Guy Bag
Lately I’ve been on the lookout for a simple messenger-style, over the shoulder bag that’s spacious enough to carry around my macpro plus have tons of extra multifunctional pockets for my everyday stuff. Then on a recent trip to Diesel I spotted this bag.. the Diesel Mitchell Briefcase in black. What I like most about it, well besides the pockets and many compartments, is that it best matches the business/casual style I was looking for, without looking too young or too formal.

This bag is made from a combination of aged-looking black leather and nylon with a main zip pocket as well as two external zip pockets on the outside. To fit a laptop and any other things needed for everyday business, the measurements of the bag are 3.9in depth, 13.7in height, and 15.6 inch width. The bag also features an adjustable black leather shoulder strap. Not a fan of black? Also comes in a brown with carmel trim.

Also the price isn’t bad. The reasonable retail price falls along the line of $235. And hey, it wont dip into my girlfriends designer purse fund. hah.

The Mitchell Briefcase is available online for $235.00 USD at Diesel

March 16, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Rebecca Minkoff Steady Tote
Seen on the arms of celebrities such as Sara Jessica Parker and Lindsey Lohan, Rebecca Minkoff’s handbag collection has been becoming more and more recognized in the world of designer handbags. Her first and most famous creation, the Morning After bag, was designed for actress Jenna Elfman. But for Spring 2008, the 26 year old designer has come out with a new fresh style called the Steady Tote. The sleek design and the slit pockets on the front really give this style an updated look. The bag is constructed of the traditional glazed leather that Rebecca Minkoff is known for. Plus, the contrasting orange trim on the one pictured above makes the bag pop just enough without being too overpowering. The bag will also be available in metallics this spring!

The Steady Tote features:
Rolled Double Handles
Detachable Shoulder Strap
Magnetic Closures
Multifunction Interior Pockets (3)
Measures 9″H x 14″L x 8″D
Retails for $675

Plus, Rebecca Minkoff handbags are made in the USA!

This particular style is currently available in Stone/Tangerine (pictured above) and Dusty/Silver Spot over at Shopbop. So head on over and shop for the Steady Tote (and other great Rebecca Minkoff styles) here: shopbop.com

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

Betseyville by Betsey Johnson ‘Call Me, Betsey’ Phone Satchel
For designer Betsey Johnson’s latest Spring accessory season, she released this ‘Call Me, Betsey’ Phone Satchel. Breathing to life the infamous 1970’s Telephone novelty bag, but in a more cartoon-ish colored rendition. Sorry guys, but unlike the 70’s novelty phone which could call out from any source by plugging in to any jack, this Betsey telephone bag is just your basic novelty purse. But hey, that’s what cellphones are for.

It should be no surprise (since I broadcast it everytime I speak about BJ,) I find Betsey Johnson’s designs to be either a hit or a total miss. Her bags are definitely bold and eye-catching, but no way would I carry such a bag.

Tell me what you guys think of this Betsey Johnson ‘Call Me’ phone bag. Or Betsey Johnson designs in general.

Discover at Nordstrom
$65

March 10, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Yves Saint Laurent Majorelle Bag
My red YSL Tribute is about ready to retire for the season, and I’m ready to upgrade my YSL purse-wear to this fabulous Yves Saint Laurent Majorelle Medium Top Handle Bag, in the delicious color Bouganvill. Dressed in a bold patent with gold-tone hardware (including a lock & key). The tummy of the bag is pretty spacious, which is a total must for a day bag. Measures in at 14.5″ width x 11.5″ height x 7″ depth.

Right now the Yves Saint Laurent Majorelle Bag is only available for pre-order and if you order this item now, you will not be charged until it ships to you. Saks has the expected ship date as no later than May 30th. That’s not too distant in the future.

Discover the YSL Majorelle Bag
Price: $1,395

End Note: If craving a Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Patent Leather Bag, scroll on over to SmartBargains and spot the white patent leather with brushed gold metal hardware version as well as the reptile embossed pewter metallic leather flat tote with brushed silver metal hardware both on the sale rack, chopped down to a whopping 30% off, arriving at the final markdown of $679.99

What I love about mine – did you know you can fit an apple mac book in there?! Yeah, my YSL flat tote doubles as the occasional laptop bag.

Discover the YSL Tribute Bags
Price: $975 $679.99

March 10, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Geek Chic: The Prada Ombre Laptop Bag
Dear stylish students, professionals, and laptop lovers,

We finally have our very own chic laptop bag! Our good friends at Prada decided that it was time to indulge those of us who appreciate some geek chic. Prada has come out with the “Prada Ombre Laptop Bag.” It is grey and silver patent leather, displaying the Prada symbol in the bottom center of the bag and provides an adjustable strap and interior padding for protection. It is medium-sized and fits most laptops. Retailing at $1,116 this bag might be as expensive as your laptop but it’s a fashionable way to tote around your computer everyday.

As a law student, I need my laptop all the time…at school, my internship, the café at 2am when I’m studying…etc. If I was going to be carrying something around with me that often I wanted it to look as stylish as my clothes and shoes.

Unfortunately, the majority of laptop bags are big, black, bulky, and non-designer. While I don’t completely love the style and coloring of the Prada Ombre, it does offer a new chic and couture alternative to carrying around your laptop. It is also simple enough to match almost anything and its patent leather makes it trendy enough to keep you looking stylish. Hopefully, this will start a new trend and more designers will follow in Prada’s footsteps and make more chic laptop bags.

Find it here: Bluefly

March 3, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Pretty in Fuchsia: The Dior Ethnic Large Hobo Bag
I must admit…seeing this shade of pink made me feel all sorts of excitement inside. The little girl in me jumped out and screamed “I must have this!!” Call me a girly girl, even call me a pink lover but this bag caught my eye as it will many other fashionistas this spring.

It is the Ethnic Large Hobo Bag by Christian Dior in Fuchsia. While the color is vibrant and exciting, the bag itself is not typical Dior. It is not traditional or classic and does not have distinct chains or buckles on it. At first glance you may think it’s a Betsy Johnson or Juicy Couture bag with the color, shape, and heart details. All of the designers this spring seem to be going in this direction…fun colors and flirty styles. I think this is a great bag to brighten up your wardrobe. This spring’s fashions lines seem to be full of splashes of color and this bag will fit in perfectly.

This Dior bag brings out the girly girl in all of us. You can’t help but feel pretty and feminine when carrying a bag of this shade. Every girl looks pretty in pink.

Discover the Dior Ethnic Hobo at eluxury

January 24, 2008

Designer Lauren Merkin Abby Scallop Computer Bag
Give up the little black computer case and slip your piece of technology into something more attractive. The new Computer Bag by designer Lauren Merkin is a great example of fashion blending with function.

The exterior is made of leather with a metallic glaze finish. The color of the bag above is Pale Gold, but if you are looking for a more attention grabbing color, there is also a dark Gunmetal color available. The body is style is simple, perfect size to snuggly fit your small laptop in. Measures 10″ height x 14″ length x 2″ depth. The mouth of the bag features a scalloped edge front flap closure, which keeps your laptop in place with Velcro.

The interior is equally as lovely, lined in a padded (for protection) red velvet lining.

Discover the Designer Lauren Merkin Abby Scallop Computer Bag
Price: $225

November 5, 2007

Designer Purse Deal: Jas MB Scaled Leather Tote Handbag
Who is Jas M.B.? Back in the early 90’s Jas Sehmi established his accessories label, which was originally called IMB. Then in 2000 the handbag designer added more to the mix, by moving from not only working with nylon and canvas materials but with fine Italian leather as well – as a result, we now have his new line Jas M.B.

Pictured above is the Jas MB Scaled leather tote, which just so happens to be resting on the virtual clearance section of nap where it’s retailing for 30% off. This bag is new to mark down section, so I don’t expect it to be there for much longer. Use it as a chic oversized style tote to carry everything you need during the day or use it as a fabulous overnight carry-all.

The bag is dressed in a black scale-effect leather on the large oversized body with brass buckle detailing. The bag also features a large zip fastening pocket and a smaller zip fastening compartment on back. This designer tote also comes with double arm straps and even a removable shoulder strap. Make note, I don’t know if you guys noticed, but the straps are decorated with what appears to resemble cat puncture wounds to the leather. Or well at least that’s what it looks like to me.

Like the outfit pictured above? I know I cut part of it down the middle to make room for the oversized Jas MB tote, but you get the idea. The dress pictured above is called the sleeveless Shift by Hoss Intropia, the leggings are nothing special, you can find pair basically anywhere you shop retailing for about $30 a pop, and the shoes are the Inca suede ballet flats with swarvoski crystal details by designer Pedro Garcia. The whole look, including the bag weighs in at about $1,300.

Discover the Jas MB Designer Handbag
Price: $725 $507.50

October 12th, 2007

The Bryna Nicole Loyola Handbag
San Francisco-based handbag designer Bryna Nicole has designed the perfect handbag that “portrays the mood of the woman carrying the bag. This mood can be confident and strong, innocent or playful - it is always a little funky and somewhat functional. The woman that I design for has a strong personal style and is fashionable and worldly. She appreciates fine fabrics and detailed construction. Items are meant to last from season to season, rather than fade with the latest trends. They are classic yet expressive and can represent personal changes in style from one outfit to the next.”

The best-selling gem of her collection is the Loyola handbag pictured above. The body is made of grey goatskin material with a canvas interior. This bag features tonal suede trim, a spacious easy access front exterior pocket, and two signature braided handles with an interwoven antique brass chain. This tote also features a removable long strap, in case your arm gets a little tired from toting it around all day.

Discover the Bryna Nicole Loyola Handbag
Price: $598

September 25, 2007

Fossil Perry East-West Messenger Man Bag
Looking for a quality leather messenger bag without the big price tag of the major fashion houses? The Perry East/West Messenger Bag from Fossil lets you get a quality leather bag that will take the wear and tear of everyday use at an affordable price of $158 via Fossil with free shipping.

This bag comes in two smooth bomber leather color options, brown and black, and features an adjustable strap, double buckle flap closure, back zip pocket, and interior organizer compartment. With only one size option, 15″L x 11″H x 5″W, this bag should be the perfect size for everyday use.

View the Fossil Perry East-West Messenger Bag
Price: $158

September 22, 2007

Designer Purse Deal: Chloe Fox Square Silverado Tote
Today when I was at Nordstrom’s Café I met a fellow purse enthusiast who also shares the same passion for Lanvin bags – and my Lanvin Ludvine purse. She then informed me that my previous season bag (in a different color) was currently at Nordstorm’s sister store, the rack, where it carried a price tag of only $500! Good lord. So what did I do? I jumped in my car and sped off to the location she gave me… 2 hours of traffic later I arrived. The bag wasn’t there, but I did discover a gold mine of designer purses marked down, some over 60% off retail. One of the beauties was the Chloe Fox Square Silverado Tote that was marked down to a whopping $1,182 from $2,365 (also on sale at nap)

It’s a super light, spacious carry-all-you-need tote, perfect size for school, work, or just out. Dressed in fox square leather with brown lace-style trim and features straps running down the side.

Discover the Chloe Fox Square Silverado Tote
Price:$2,365 $1,182

September 14, 2007

Bag Bliss hearts the Fendi Love Letter Clutch
I fell in love with the Fendi Love Letter Clutch back when I first spotted Delfina Delettrez (Daughter of Fendi designer Silvia Venturini Fendi) with the silver logo on black version.

That was a while ago. So long in fact, I was beginning to get worried that it sold out before I could even get a chance to rediscover it. Well finally, while browsing the virtual halls of nap I spotted the Fendi Love oversized clutch in the wood brown leather w/ multi-color sequin logo version. Unfortunately Delfina’s black and silver one isn’t available at this time, but keep checking back, I’m sure one will pop up for this up-and-coming fall season.

side note: This newbie comes with a detachable shoulder strap in case you just feel like toting it around in hand - it looks a lot better detached. Also according to nap this clutch is big enough to hold your laptop - that would be one fancy laptop bag.

Discover the Fendi Love Letter Clutch
Price: $1,630