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 7, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

LAMB goes Lux: adds Aston Black Label
Fresh designer news: Rocker turned designer, Gwen Stefani is expanding her designer L.A.M.B. bag collection, by adding an additional higher-end line. The lamb adorned signature bags, categorized under the Aston Black Label Line will feature a 30% markup from Lamb’s traditional first purse collection.

There will be eight styles available with style names such as the Lotus and Winston, the Aston bags feature special detailing such as layers of perforated and pebble-grain leather mixed with patent leather piping and suede strips, with black and gray striped lining, gunmetal hardware and matte black hangtags. The collection retails from $525 for a clutch to $1,495 for a limited edition carryall and is inspired by vintage British sports cars.

Gwen Stefani had this to say about the new Aston Black Label: “I love the designing process for the handbags. It’s always evolving and changing each season. This season I loved mixing different materials like leather and suede and then putting the L.A.M.B. twist on it….I look forward to expanding the L.A.M.B. brand even more.”

Buy L.A.M.B. Bags at these locations:
Nordstrom
Saks Fifth Avenue
eLuxury

[ The Bag Forum: LAMB goes Lux: adds Aston Black Label ]

April 7, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS
Remember the “Big City After Dark” Exhibit?

Louis Vuitton Tahitienne Purse Collection
Well, the wait has finally ended for the Tahitienne Collection! And it gets even better! These bags are available in four different colors in two sizes! Check them out:
These new Tahitienne bags are pretty cool, aren’t they? They are so versatile because of their hook closures. The opening can either be hooked together (like the way they are shown above) to give it that trapezoid shape OR they can be left unhooked with the corners pointing out (resulting in a more traditional rectangular shaped tote). I also love the print on these bags! It is so whimsical and summery looking. Yep, you guessed it! I am thinking these bags would make great beach totes (or even shopping totes). The lining is absolutely adorable as well! And where did the inspiration for this print come from? According to Louis Vuitton’s website, the print was inspired by a catalogue published back in 1924.

Now this does all sound too good to be true, doesn’t it? I mean, a really cute canvas bag created by Louis Vuitton that is absolutely perfect for Spring/Summer. So what’s the catch? You probably already know where I’m going with this, but I’m going to tell you anyway. Yep, its that darn price tag. The prices for the Tahitienne Collection range from $1,000 to $1,160. These bags are comparable in size to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull bags and yet they cost approximately $400-$500 more. Why? It seems to me that they are a bit overpriced, especially since they scream “Casual Summer Tote”. But I suppose, this has been becoming a pattern lately with Louis Vuitton.

Well, here are the specs anyway:
Hook Closure
Cell phone pocket, interior zippered pocket, and D-ring
Adjustable straps
Protective Base Studs
Two sizes: PM (6.7″ x 10.6″ x 16.5″) and GM (8.3″ x 13.8″ x 20.8″)
Four colors: Lilac, Menthe, Pink, Sandy

Available on Louis Vuitton’s official website. Check them out here: Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton is also sold at eluxury

[ The Bag Forum: Louis Vuitton Tahitienne Purse Collection ]

March 30, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Chanel Bags available at YOOX
Are you craving Chanel, but don’t want to pay full price? eBay is one website where you can score authentic Chanel via the internet, and for a limited time only check out YOOX (dot com), they just got in a piece or two of authentic (and in good condition) Chanel.

The Chanel listed above is the one that caught my attention the most. It has so many classy details I just love about Chanel. First of all, this Chanel is made out of smooth quilted chocolate brown nappa leather, (dark brown being a nice substitute for a solid black leather bag). Chanel’s signature logo closure was also applied to this bag, a detail I truly adore. Something that isn’t really appealing to me would have to be the single nappa leather strap; it seems so boring, in my opinion. I most definitely prefer Chanel’s classic metal and interwoven leather chain straps. It seems like Chanel was starting that chain and leather strap feature on this bag, but never finished! As I mentioned before, this bag is not brand new, instead YOOX’s claims it is in good condition. If you are interested in this Chanel, make sure you read up on its specific flaws before buying. Although, something in the back of my head is saying, “Who cares… its CHANEL”!

Buy this Chanel before it’s gone, here: YOOX.COM

[ The Bag Forum: Chanel Designer Bags available at YOOX ]

March 24, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Limited Edition Le Petitpas Wilm Handbag
Katherine Heigl has been spotted all over town this past month sporting a new juicy red bag. (Finally retiring her last couple months everyday-er, the Juicy Couture Patent Leather Lovely Bag). The bag, which honestly left me stumped on determining identification, is by new purse designer Le Petitpas and the bag is called the Wilm. If you go on over to the Le Petitpas website you will see that this is the only bag available (ever made??) by the designer. It’s also only available in the color red with speckled bronze plated hardware. Right now, if you fancy this purse you can discover and purchase the Wilm bag for $1270 on the Le Petitpas official website, however the stock is limited. Only 500 bags were made.

March 24, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Vintage Steamer Trunks: Louis Vuitton vs Free People
The Vintage Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk has been a hot item on ebay lately. In fact, they have been so popular that people are willing to pay as much as $8,000 for a complete trunk (e.g. the drawers and hangers are present). Certainly these people don’t intend to actually use these trunks for traveling. So what are they doing with them? Are they simply collector’s pieces or are they being showcased as antique furniture in one’s bedroom? Yep, those Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunks are pretty cool! I think it would be awesome to have one sitting in my house, just as a conversation piece!

So what do you do if you like the idea of a steamer trunk, but you don’t want to fork over the 8 grand for it? Well, Free People has recently come out with this vintage-inspired steamer trunk (pictured above on the right). Free People says that this trunk is “a more feminine interpretation of the classic early 1920’s steamer trunk”. Feminine is right! The trunk’s exterior is covered with a patchwork of floral fabrics. And it’s interior? The trunk is lined with hot pink satin. The body of the trunk is composed of heavy-duty plywood, while the trim pieces are made of Burmese teak. The trunk is large, measuring 23 1/2″ x 23 1/2″ x 46″ and it retails for $2,700.

Personally, I think the trunk is cute in its own quirky way. But the $2,700 price tag seems to be a bit of a stretch for an item that would have no practical use other than as a piece of furniture. Gee… I could get a whole bedroom set for that amount!

The Free People Vintage Steamer Trunk can be found on their website. You can check it out here: Free People Clothing Boutique

And for those of you interested in a REAL vintage steamer trunk, you can head on over to ebay! Search for a Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk here: Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Furniture, Luggage items on eBay.com

March 24, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Chanel Metallic Crackled Bag
Bling bling for sure. This bag can be spotted from a mile away. Chanel’s new metallic crackled calfskin flap bag from the Spring/Summer ‘08 line gleams of gold and with the silver accent oozes shimmer. This bag is a far cry away from Chanel’s usual basic quilted leather bag but maintains the tradition with its simple shape, chain strap, and Chanel logo buckle.

This bag is the link between classic chick and funky couture. It is the perfect bag with an evening dress, to funk up a pair of jeans, or to glam up for a night out on the town. Its funky enough to stand out on its own but simple enough to wear with any outfit. Many times, such shiny, metallic bags can look kind of cheap and be the quick trend of a season but this bag is made of the finest quality and boasts of exceptional detail. It is one of those bags that can be carried on and off for years. With this bag, Chanel has truly upheld its tradition of always offering something old with something new.

end note: Haute Couture also wrote about this bag, see what she said here: Chanel Metallic Gilt Leather Bag

March 15, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Gucci Joy Boston Bag (With Flower Detail)
Inspired by Deysa’s post about Juicy Couture’s Beach Flower Tote, I decided to do my own post on a flower-appliquéd handbag. I came across this Gucci Joy Boston Bag pictured above. This bag features the classic GG signature pattern in white with black crocodile trim. I find the black and white aspect of the bag quite appealing actually. However, for some reason, Gucci felt it would be a good idea to embellish this bag with pinwheel-like flowers and grommets. Perhaps an elegant floral pattern printed directly on the fabric would have been a better choice.

Funny Side-Note: Over at the Bag Forum the other day, we were discussing - or rather, joking - about how Gucci likes to have a zillion different bags with the same name. The Gucci Joy Boston Bag pictured above is one of several bags all named the Joy Boston Bag. Why isn’t there any distinction between them? Who knows, but it does make things rather confusing when trying to do a web search for a particular Gucci style.

For those of you that are interested, here are the specs on this bag:
Classic Boston Shape with Double Handles
Zip-Top Closure
D-Ring
Interior Multifunction Pocket
Gold Hardware
Measures 13″W X 9″H X 7″D
Retails for $1,950.00

Pre-orders for this particular Gucci Joy Boston bag can be placed at: Saks.com

March 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Limited Edition Designer Dolce & Gabbana Bags - Spring/Summer 2008
This spring season Dolce and Gabbana will be releasing 11 unique bags that will feature exotic skins of crocodile and python. Each purse will have a hand-embroidered ‘Limited Edition’ fabric label as well as a creation number, such as “1 of 10”. Also if you want to personalize your bag even more, that option is available. Plus some new shapes will be thrown in the line. For example, one of the new additions is a ‘lounge bag’, an elongated satchel that converts to a maxi clutch.

These bags will be super rare too. Only 10 of each style will be produced - hence, extremely limited edition.

View the entire collection: Limited Edition Designer Dolce & Gabbana Bags - Spring/Summer 2008

March 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Tuesday Fashion Bits
It’s Tuesday, which means it’s time for the weekly highlighted fashion bits from our sister site The Fashion Row. Gift ideas, star style, beauty products, designer news, sweet deals and so much more. So in case you missed it, here is a sample of last weeks topics…

> Diddy Cares: The Sean Combs Scarf

> Louis Vuitton Emprise Watch

> Vera Wang adds Bags

> Be & D Bag Sample Sale

> WIN: Frownies Giveaway!

> Sample Sales: Splendid, Ella Moss, more..

> Hot Picks: Shopping Online

> Free FILLED Cosmetic Terry Bag

> Canal Street Counterfeit Crackdown

> Shoe Sale: Buy 1 get 2nd half price

> Bag Designer Alessandra Gucci

> Vivre Designer Sale!

> Fendi Artist Baguette Bag: The DIY Project

> Free People 3-in-1 Paisley Petals Bikini

March 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Carrie Bradshaw: The Salvatore Ferragamo Ostrich Feather Bag
Ok, so we all know that Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw is the ultimate fashionista. She’s always sporting the latest looks by the hottest designers and starting the newest trends. Us fellow fashionista’s have been pretty lonely since the series finale of Sex and the City but have much to look forward to because of the release of the movie this spring. One of Sex and the City’s biggest appeals is the fashion. Fashionistas always anticipate Carrie Bradshaw’s latest shoes or newest funky bag. With the release of the movie creeping up on us, scenes from the movie have hit the internet leaving us all in awe over the fashion.

Miss Carrie Bradshaw was seen in a couple of scenes carrying the Salvatore Ferragamo Ostrich Feather Bag. This is definitely not your average handbag, nor would we expect Carrie Bradshaw to carry the average handbag. It boasts of soft, colorful ostrich feathers, brown leather lining and an ornate gold buckle. Its safe to say that you will not go unnoticed carrying this bad. It is funky, vibrant, and in your face. It is nothing but unique. It can look fantastic with the right outfit but can easily turn into a disaster if accessorized with an already lively outfit. It screams Carrie Bradshaw but does it scream you?

March 2, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

GAP (PRODUCT)RED CANVAS TOTE
Don’t you love the feeling of purchasing something and knowing that a certain amount of your money will be contributed to a good cause? Two years ago, (PRODUCT) RED was licensed to operate with large companies such as American Express, Apple Inc., and Emporio Armani. What is the purpose of (PRODUCT) RED? It is a global fund whose main goal is to raise money for the struggle against illnesses such as Aids, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, (especially targeting third world countries). This is succeeded with the help of its partner companies, in which each company customizes a product of theirs with the (PRODUCT) RED brand on it. A certain percentage of their product sold is then contributed to this global fund.

Gap Inc. is one of the many companies that takes part in the (PRODUCT) RED operation. A recent item released by Gap is the GAP (PRODUCT) RED Canvas Tote. This bag is made of premium cotton canvas and details RED-inspired writings on its lining, interior pockets, a hook clasp and an o-ring closure. Measuring in at 17”x 15.5” x 7.5”, I can already think of many ways to make use of this bag; beach tote, laundry bag, an overnight, travel tote, etc. For $58 (remember, half of the proceeds aids the (PRODUCT) RED campaign), discover this white and grey canvas tote, here:

Shop clothes for women, men, maternity, baby, and kids at gap.com. | Gap

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

The Birkin Bag
“Birkin Bag” …two little words that send every fashionista into a frenzy. The coveted Birkin bag comes with the longest waitlist for any luxury item - up to six years long. It also comes with a hefty price tag. The regular going rate for a Birkin is about $6,000. Even the most elite have trouble getting their hands on a Birkin Bag.

Many unenlightened people may ask “why a waitlist?”…“why so much money?” But only those who have been up close and personal with the Hermes Birkin bag can really begin to understand what all the hype is about. This bag radiates quality with its fine leather, precise lines, handmade details, and immaculate interior. Every detail of this bag, down to the stitching, is perfect. So much handwork, detail, and fine quality are put into these bags. They can’t help but stand apart from the other masses of factory created bags. With the perfect size and style the Birken can accompany you anywhere with anything…if only you are so lucky to have one.

Birkin Bags are not simply fashion accessories but coveted collector items. It is a fashion time-piece carried for years and passed down to daughters and granddaughters. It is an item that exudes elegance, style, and affluence. Men have antique stop watches and women have the Birkin Bag. Simply put, the Birkin bag is a classic time-piece that only very few are blessed with the honors of owning.

[image: Monte Carlos Club]

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