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 25, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Coach Soho Signature Cotton Purse Line
I swear Coach never fails to release new handbag styles and designs each season, this is something I really like about the name brand. It seems like a new line of handbags are released one day, and shortly after, another squad of newbie’s are ready to follow. Most of their items are fun and seem to conform well to the latest trend. With that said, I lean towards quickly getting tired of the “trendy” style, and seek a new bag to fulfill my modern crave (or bag obsession).

I ran upon this Coach signature cotton style line, I must say, its vibe is pretty appealing. The cotton material is perfect for spring, and with the bodies’ vintage cream colored base, its sure to hide those annoying dirt marks we all get on our handbags from time to time. Coach’s signature C’s also carry some alterations. If you are a signature lover, and tend to like the various patterns of the infamous C’s, you should consider adding this pretty to your collection. The vintage vibe is truly cool, and with those brown, cream, and gold hues, you’re sure to not have a hard time trying to match your outfit with your handbag. Another nice feature found on the Soho Signature Cotton line is thick braided flat handles, which are a plus in my book! Who doesn’t love comfy leather shoulder straps?! So what do you ladies think of this Coach line, do you like it?

Shop Coach online at Macy*s

[ The Bag Forum: Coach Soho Signature Cotton Purse Line ]

April 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

eLuxury’s ‘Allure of the White Handbag’
Spring is here and a hot new trend found in handbags right now are pretty whites! Just like a classic black bag, I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a white handbag. If you head on over to eLuxury’s website, you can find a page dedicated to the hottest designer accessories available in the neutral hue of white. Four random accessories listed above would make a perfect edition to your spring bags collection.

Marc Jacobs Collection Patchwork Ines has got to be my white bag of choice. It’s such a pretty piece with such a classic vibe. I admire the white quilted grained leather, and the gold hardware of choice compliments the handbag, finely. The chained handles are very luxurious, they are definitely capable of turning a few heads towards you.

Craving logos instead? If so, the Fendi Forever seems like a great everyday tote. Within, you can find this bag divided into three main compartments, making this tote extremely spacious. Sporting Fendi’s famous “F’s” on clean white patent leather, it’s sure to please any logo crave in style.

How about a clutch? Everyone should own a great clutch for those bag-less days and evening outings. Dior carries the pretty Vinyl Cannage ‘D’ Clutch and Juicy Couture has their elongated clutch. You can find flap top closure and decorative adornments on both of these pieces.

Whether you prefer the tote, satchel or the everyday clutch, each piece is lovely and any would make a great addition to the stylish white accessory trend.

Discover eLuxury’s complete white handbag list, here: eLUXURY

[ The Bag Forum: eLuxury’s ‘Allure of the White Handbag’ ]

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 ]

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 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Vanessa

Designer Beach Bags
It’s almost that time of year again…the sun comes out…time for bikinis, sunscreen, and sand. Every Fashionista needs to look just as good on the beach as she does on the streets and with that comes designer beach bags. Many designers have blessed us with stylish beach totes that look fabulous on the beach or a night out on the town afterwards.

Marc Jacobs has come out with this stunning yellow beach tote (also available in black & retailing at $1,095). The smooth grained leather gives you the finest way to carry around your most valuable beach necessities. With this bag, you definitely won’t go unnoticed on the beach! Dior has graced us with its ever so chicness and has come out with the St. Tropez Animal Print Beach Bag retailing at $1,300. St. Tropez is right! This bag is the perfect accessory to finish up your classy beach look on St. Tropez, the French Riveria, or why not even the Hamptons! This may not be your typical beach bag but is fully equipped for all of your beach necessities and totally glams up your beach wardrobe! Juicy Couture has also come out with a few fashionable beach bags. The first one is the Beach Surfrider Tote retailing at $225. The patent leather trimming and metal hardware really vamp up this vinyl bag from typical to funky. It’s also great because you don’t have to worry about any water damage! The second Juicy Couture bag is the Malibu Beach Tote. This cute, girly bag comes in pink and yellow…and better yet, comes with a matching beach towel!

With these designer beach bags, every Fashionista can make a splash! You can find these bags at eluxury.com..

[ The Bag Forum: Designer Beach Bags ]

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 5, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Christian Louboutin Fred Duffle Bag
Blue is definitely hot this season and the new canvas Fred Duffle Bag by Christian Louboutin is neatly trimmed with gorgeous bright blue leather. This new piece by CL is definitely not your average canvas bag as the exterior stud detail, uncommon style of zippered pockets and convertibility add an awesome twist on a known, simpler classic. And what’s also great about this duffle is the inspiration of the red lined interior from the famous underlying red trademark seen on his shoes. Since this bag reminds me of summer, especially with the vivid blue leather and classic canvas combo, I could see this as the perfect bag for upcoming boating that I’ll do.

The new duffle by CL is convertible and features two leather top handles with a 5″ drop length, and an adjustable shoulder strap with a strap drop length that elongates up to 14.5″. The handles can be used when the top is pushed down in more of a handbag style, while the strap can easily and comfortably be worn over the shoulder like a tote. The interior has red nylon lining, two zip pockets, and a special holder for your cell. And the size is 15″x12″x7″, which I think is perfect for a day bag. Though I think I might have to wait to see if this goes on sale because $1,495 is a little out of my price budget for a canvas bag.

See it here: Christian Louboutin - Fred Duffle Bag - Saks.com

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

Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Hampstead Bag
Finally, for some of us, the long awaited LV Damier Azur Hampstead is now available just in time for the Spring! I was actually looking forward to this because there weren’t any shoulder bags in the Azur line that really appealed to me. I like the fact that the shoulder straps on the Hampstead are flat and provide comfort for wearing over the shoulder in contrast to, for example, the Saleya which has rolled leather straps that tend to slip off easily. I also love the shape and availability of three sizes which are the PM, GM and MM. Although this is an uncommon LV hardware application, the gold plaque in the front adds just enough charm to the bag.

The name of this piece is inspired by the leafy suburb of London. And the main features of the bag include adjustable belt buckle shoulder straps, a golden plaque with “Louis Vuitton Inventeur” engraved on it, and gusseted sides with snap closures to increase the size of the bag. The only thing that I wasn’t really a fan of is how the top closes with a clasp as I prefer bags with a zip closure. On the interior, there is a patch pocket, cell pocket and a zippered one, allowing you to neatly organize the small essentials. Shown above is the roomy Hampstead MM which measures 13.6″ x 11.2″ x 6.7″ and retails for $1,200.

Find it here in time for Spring: Louis Vuitton - Damier Azur Hampstead MM - eLUXURY

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

Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Montorgueil Bags
Feast your eyes on the new budget-friendly piece of arm candy, the Louis Vuitton Montorgueil Bag. All I can say is that finally there is an appealing and spacious shoulder bag by LV that won’t totally deplete your bank funds. It is readily available in two sizes, the PM and GM with price tags of $735 and $805, respectively. To us passionate fans of LV, how great are those prices?! What also makes this bag wonderful and that is not featured on others in the same cost bracket is the zipper closure. And the shape is modern but still elegant and is a great alternative to the dull silhouettes of price comparable bags like the popular Neverfull and Batignolles.

Like how most names of pieces by Vuitton are inspired by people, places or things, the Montorgueil bag was named after a pedestrian street in the center of Paris. On the front, there is a small gold plaque with an engraved Old English Louis Vuitton Signature and small golden round studs can be seen throughout the exterior. On the sides there are adorable pleats that add a contemporary touch to the design of the bag. On the inside there is a patch pocket for quick access to items like your keys or phone. And last but not least, the top features a zip closure with the famous leather leaf-like zipper pull, padlock, and ket at one end. Wheather it be the PM or GM, there is plenty of room for what you need to carry. The PM measures 14″ x 8.2″ x 6.3″ while the larger GM is 16.5″ x 9.4″ x 7″.

See the new LV Montorgueil bags here: Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas: Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Handbags & Backpacks at eLUXURY

February 24, 2008

The Tumi Gemini Handbag Collection
The wonderful people over at Tumi were so kind enough to send us a bag to review from their new collection, the Tumi Gemini Flap bag.

Today I checked out the other bags in this collection when I was at the mall, and discovered the assortment of Gemini bags: bucket bags, north/south totes, shoulder bags, and handbags. Available in green, honey brown, black or (my favorite) white. Price range is very reasonable, taking into consideration quality and function.

Alicia gives her review of the green Gemini Large Flap Bag below.

post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Tumi Gemini Flap Bag
The bags in the Gemini collection by Tumi are great for everyday, comfortable and their shapes are classic. And this season’s colors are white, brown and bright green. I just got the large Gemini Flap Bag in green and although green bags usually don’t appeal to me, this one does. It is definitely a bag that will only come out of the closet for spring and summer though as it’s brightness doesn’t fit into any fall or winter color trends.

As for the bag itself, I absolutely love the shape and the two cute pockets in the front. there’s even a nice exterior back pocket for quick access to whatever. And the best part is the leather! It’s made from tumbled leather with vachetta trim and I must say that it is extremely soft and supple. What’s also great is the thick shoulder strap as it will take forever to wear. Featured inside are a nylon interior, a zippered pocket with a Tumi leather tag, a cell pocket and a key ring. Also, opening and closing the front flap and small pockets couldn’t be easier. The magnetic closure is so convenient and quick, yet secure as opposed to a buckle closure, which can be annoying to open and close constantly. With that said, the quality of the bag is definitely worth the $445 price tag!

See it here: TUMI

February 19, 2008

True Religion Spring Bags
Denim jean company True Religion recently entered the handbag market last month, January 2008. The head designer for the handbag collection is Leslie Hsu, a fourteen-year design veteran who previously designed for brands Calvin Klein and Tahari, as well as her own name-sake collection, and recently licensed and launched UGG Australia handbags.

Leslie Hsu feels “True Religion Handbags are effortlessly chic, and the collection promises that every accessory would be a conversation piece.”

The vintage bohemian True Religion collection consists of anything and everything you can think of under the Handbag umbrella: clutches, hobos, satchels, bags, totes, weekend bags, and accessories (key chains). Materials you will find mostly used throughout the collection are hand dyed cotton and Italian leathers. Colors, you will see a lot of deep cadmium, bright pineapple, turquoise, fuchsia, kelly green, royal blue and golden whiskies throughout the line. Price range is around $128 for a mini purse pouch and on up to $898 for the Stella Weekender (pictured above).

The six fabrications in the collection include:

Italian Tumbled Leather – Only the finest of hand-dyed vegetable leathers are used in this line. The colors used are whiskey, cadmium, tangerine, royal, pineapple, kelly green, turquoise and fuchsia. The pieces strike a perfect balance between chic and bold. The Leyla Day Bag and Stella Weekender are expected to be the recognized pieces of the collection’s launch.

Woven Leather - Hand woven and knotted leather form these textural delights. This style comes in brown, white and cadmium. The Serena Hobo, a triangular hobo shoulder bag, is a modern silhouette with a craft inspired design.

Italian Stamped Python – The Leyla Day Bag, Stella Weekender, Josie Clutches, and Sisi Clutch are given depth through the beautiful leather combinations. Mixing a fine Italian washed nappa with a unique stamped python in black, slate blue, and brown. Exceptionally textural and exquisite.

Patchwork Denim – The Stella Weekender is available in a special signature patchwork denim fabric. Using over-washed, vintage looking denim, the Stella Weekender pays homage to True Religion’s heritage.

Washed Vintage Nappa – The Delilah and Dylan Slings along with the Wren Messengers and Phoebe Totes are given a bohemian twist with long, hand-cut fringe, reminiscent of the seventies. The suede fringes adorn this Woodstock inspired group.

Rainbow Serape – The Phoebe Tote and Winona Satchel are made of genuine Mexican cotton serape in a festive rainbow color way. These bags are trimmed with heavy whiskey vegetable leather and vintage inspired hardware. A perfect compliment to summer’s bright palette.

Shop True Religion

Take a glance at the latest spring line below…

What do you guys think of the new True Religion bags?

February 11, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Alicia

Tory Burch Nylon T-Satchel
Remember designer Tory Burch, admirably known for the original trend of those giant emblem-embellished Reva ballet flats? Well, for this upcoming season, Burch has also created and re-created a few fresh looking handbags for her Spring 2008 collection, including the Nylon T-Satchel. Her line this year presents an upgraded version of the T-satchel with new patent croc embossed leather trim as opposed to last year’s model with plain patent leather. I’m actually glad I discovered this year’s model, as for me it was love at first sight after laying my eyes on that exotic trim.. What I also love about this bag is the obvious twist on her round signature double “T” logo.

An amplified take on the logo is clearly exhibited by the design of the shiny leather trim on the exterior. I think that this altered and enlarged version of Burch’s “T” is a nice variation of her signature emblematic design. Also, the combination of two materials (especially that hot croc trim) and color contrasting transforms an ordinary nylon bag into a stylish piece of designer purse-wear. This chic nylon handbag could easily match and be paired with any casual outfit to result in an elegant, uptown yet modish look. Pictured above is the bag in Khaki Red. It is also available in Khaki Yellow and Navy (my personal favorite). Not only does this bag look great, but it’s also very practical.

There is plenty of room for your everyday essentials with the satchel measuring 11″ w x 13″ h x 6″ d. And the 10 inch strap drop length allows it to be worn comfortably over the shoulders, which is a huge plus for me. Also featured are adjustable side buckles and a top zip closure adorned with Burch’s signature medallion-logo zipper pull.

The Nylon T-Satchel by Tory Burch comes with a price tag of $550.

Find it at Nordstroms

February 4, 2007

Longchamp Nylon Foldable Tote
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!

Plus they come in so many different colors. Right now on the saks website, they have classic beige, chocolate brown, deep-red, fig purple and gorgeous royal blue in stock.

Get creative. If you want something a little bit more unique, log onto longchamp.com and design your own by mixing up the colors, adding stripes, changing the length of the straps, selecting a hardware finish, and adding your own initials.

Discover the Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon Foldable Tote
Price: $135