Who doesn’t love options? I was approached by a sales associate at my local Saks outlet and was asked if I had seen their latest arrival, the two-in-one handbag (she must have barely spotted them). I was familiar with the style since a couple of tBFers proudly own the famous City Tote by Foley + Corinna, but I hadn’t experienced what a great style it was in person.

Our friends at ShopBop and their wonderful sales have both the City Tote by Foley + Corinna and the Post Q Tote by Un Apres-Midi de Chien marked down in the sales section (only selected colors on the City Tote). This is just one of the many examples of designer inspirations and competition.

Foley + Corinna with its original design features a zipper up front when expanded and nice pebbled leather, while Apres-Midi’s version consists of bubbly nylon and faux patent leather trim. From pure description it’s quick to note that one style definitely differs in price wise than the other. Both feature double rolled handles, multiple pockets and the handy detachable shoulder straps. Since I’m not the greatest fan of nylon handbags, my vote goes to the original City Tote. Which is your pick?

Regardless, don’t deny the great sales going on right now over at: Shopbop

The Chat: compare!

Target was just slapped with a new lawsuit by Coach Inc., accusing them of selling unauthorized reproductions of their handbags. This is the second time within three years that Coach has taken Target to court over the same intellectual property issue.

The bags mentioned in the lawsuit are Coach’s famous Ergo and Signature Patchwork purse collection.

news via: justicenewsflash

In the world of retail and fashion, I imagine there’s nothing more annoying than having your hard-set ideas and work get snubbed by a poor excuse of a replica. This not only affects the person behind the work, but the consumer who willingly spends on the factual item, expecting to carry a one of a kind piece. I was picking up some beauty items at my local mall yesterday and I spotted this handbag resting on the arm of a mannequin at a nearby store. I was in awe and quick to note the strong comparisons to a couture designer I am much familiar with.

Bebe calls this handbag the Perforated Trimmed Satchel; Bagista’s know this style as Balenciaga’s Covered Giant City.

The most obvious comparisons by far is the identical satchel shape with the top handle design, the leather covered studs, and the detachable flat shoulder strap. Also note the overall presentation of details such as the zipper pocket up front, reinforced stitching, and if you pay close attention, this satchel is perforated throughout its edges as well. We expected a poor inspiration from Forever 21, not you Bebe!

Besides the fact that you can’t ever compare the leathers of Balenciaga and Bebe, another major difference is definitely the price tag. You can splurge on Balenciaga for $1,795 or get Bebe’s reproduction of the Covered Giant City for $98 at bebe

For some great deals, shop Balenciaga at Authentic Balenciaga on eBay

The Chat: BEBE vs Balenciaga!

Some handbags just compliment each other nicely. Although these two designer pieces aren’t exactly replicas of each other, if you pay close attention to the number of similarities they have in common, it’s enough to have these two pieces battle it out against each other.

First up is the famous Nikki hobo with a twist of bohemian chic in it. It’s the Supernova Stud Nikki by Rebecca Minkoff. Pebbled leather, studded banding throughout the sides, and a comfy flat shoulder strap all found on this famous hobo bag. It’s a favorite among many Minkette’s and one of the latest pieces to the Rebecca Minkoff collection.

Now for its match, to the left is the Efram Hobo bag by Tory Burch. Distressed leather, studs running at the sides, a single flat shoulder strap and of course, the familiar hobo silhouette. They’re both newbie’s within their line, except that the Studded Nikki made its debut a couple of months earlier than the Efram hobo. The Nikki measures in at 14” x 19” x 4” while Tory’s hobos dimensions are 14” x 18” x 4”. Price wise, the Efram hobo costs $550, while the Studded Nikki retails for $650.

Ladies, whats your input on these hobos and most importantly, which one is your favorite? You can find these hobo bags online through: shopbop

The Chat: Rebecca Minkoff vs Tory Burch!