It seems that all anyone ever talks about is IT bags. So what exactly makes an IT bag and IT bag? After doing a bit of research, it appears as though the term was coined in the 1990s. During this time, the handbag market was experiencing explosive growth. Designers needed to come up with a design that would allow them to stand out in this seemingly never-ending sea of handbags. Producing a design that would become an IT bag was like the holy grail of the handbag world. But oddly enough, we still don’t really know what makes an IT bag an IT bag. Sure an IT bag is something that everyone must own, but why is that exactly? There are a lot of different possibilities, but I don’t think we can place our finger on just one.

And exactly what does all of this have to do with this handbag I have pictured here? Hopefully it is obvious! Meet the Longchamp ‘It Bag’ Horizontal Tote. A playful spin on the whole IT bag phenomenon, this otherwise plain looking tote has “Ceci est un IT BAG” written right across the front. Well, it technically may not be an IT bag per se. However, I think it would make a nice tote for all those casual summer activities. You can pick one up at Nordstrom, where it is currently available in orange and retails for $340.

The Chat: Longchamp ‘It Bag’

What type of luggage do you Bagista’s carry? Unfortunately, the most attractive feature found on my carry-on is the fact that it comes in my favorite color of black. I’ve always wanted to give into designer luggage, but I’m not your typical traveler, with that said, spending big bucks on an everyday handbag seems much more reasonable for me. The All-American brand Coach introduces a new good featured within their new Penelope line; meet the OP Art Suitcase. I don’t recall Coach doing suitcases in the past, briefcases for men, yes, but not luggage. So here’s something really new to Coach; OP art canvas lines the exterior of the case as black leather trim decors it as well. Some of my favorite details includes a lock closure consisting of a numerical combination and the bold hot pink interior which adds that perfect finishing touch to this travel piece. Luggage prices can run pretty high and this Coach leaves no exceptions. You can find the medium version for $1,200 or for $300 more, you can get the largest case which measures in at 27’’ x 18” x 8.5”! Ladies, what’s your input toward Coach’s new Suitcase, Do you like this?

Shop COACH leather goods at Macy’s

The Chat: Coach Penelope OP Art Suitcase

December 9, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Marissa

Dolce & Gabbana Miss Biz Dome Bag
I have never been one into Dolce & Gabbana handbags but lately the bags have looked quite fabulous. My favorite Dolce & Gabbana handbag at the moment is the Miss Biz Dome Satchel and it is lovely from handle to base. I absolutely love the shape of the satchel, especially because it reminds me of the Louis Vuitton Alma only a less structured version. The Dolce & Gabbana Miss Bizz Dome Satchel has a zip top closure and also features two ways the handbag can be carried. Since this handbag is for the most part called a satchel, it can be carried by the two handles located on the top of the handbag or a optional shoulder strap is included with the purchase of this satchel. The Dolce & Gabbana Miss Bizz Dome Satchel is made from calfskin leather and is accented with a logo-embossed plague right on the front of the bag. Being that the Miss Bizz Dome Satchel is part of the Dolce & Gabbana 2009 Resort collection, it is currently being pre-ordered and will ship as soon as the handbag becomes available.

The Dolce & Gabbana Miss Bizz Dome Satchel is currently for sale through pre-order at the Nordstrom for $2,195. To me that’s a bit much for an all white bag, being that you would have to deal with cleaning this handbag probably almost everyday. But if you are one of those bagista’s that can keep her handbag clean 24/7, I would say the Dolce & Gabbana Miss Bizz Satchel is a great handbag to add to any collection.

See the Dolce & Gabbana Miss Bizz Satchel at Nordstrom

Chat Now: Dolce & Gabbana Miss Biz Dome Bag

November 17, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Want Malpensa 24 HR Travel Bag
Do you want a nice travel bag? Say for quick, overnight trips? I came across this Malpensa 24HR Travel Bag by Want and all I can say is “wow”. So who is Want? The company’s full name is Want les Essentiels de la Vie. They are all about timeless, classic, and 100% functional designs. Their specialty? Luggage. However, they also make briefcases and a variety of small accessories. Personally, I think this bag is absolutely lovely. And you know what? You wouldn’t necessarily have to use it as a travel bag. It could easily double as an awesome work bag. Just think of all the stuff you could fit in there – folders, binders, laptop, you name it. As for the color, I actually love the green a lot. The color is refreshing and unexpected, especially in the workplace. However, I think this bag would be even more stunning in black. After all, black is always right when it comes to work. How does everyone else feel?

The Want Malpensa 24HR Travel Bag is available in Dark Green. It measures 14″ x 11″ x 5.5″ and has a 9″ handle drop. Also keep your items secure with its adorable little zipper lock. Unfortunately, this bag retails for $1,395.

Check it out at shopjake.com.!

Chat Now: Want Malpensa 24 HR Travel Bag

October 13, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Gucci GG Plus Rolling Suitcase
Doing some holiday traveling this year? Unfortunately, traveling over the holidays is not in the cards for me this year. But for some reason, I never seem to pass up the opportunity to look at new suitcases. I like the idea of having a suitcase that is stylish, yet not overwhelmingly feminine. The reason for this, do you ask? As childish as this may seem, it is mostly because of my husband. If I don’t want to get stuck lugging around all the bags, then they better not be covered it a cute little print! Granted, I can understand him being embarrassed if a suitcase he is holding was covered in, say, a Hello Kitty print. But anything even remotely feminine seems to send him running for the hills… or at least our gate at the airport.

So I spotted this suitcase over at Bluefly and I think it has many of the qualities I am looking for in a unisex carry-on. Meet the Gucci GG Plus Rolling Suitcase. It is sleek, stylish, and in a neutral color (dark gray). Plus is has some great features such as a file pocket, retractable handle, and wheels. Unfortunately, this suitcase is not perfect. What I dislike most about it is its price tag. Even on sale, the Gucci GG Plus Rolling Suitcase costs about as much as the slightly larger Louis Vuitton Pegase 50. And if given the choice, I would pick a Louis Vuitton over a Gucci any day. Sorry Gucci!

The Gucci GG Plus Rolling Suitcase measures 13″ x 15″ x 6″ and has a 16″ retractable handle. Find it at Bluefly where it is currently priced at $1,912.

Chat Now: Gucci GG Plus Rolling Suitcase

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

Vintage Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Steamer Trunk
So everyday I walk past this boutique called Polite Society, never really stop in, more of just stare out of the corner of my eye as I walk by. They usually have really amazing window displays set up. I remember last winter they had this Louis Vuitton Trunk on display in their window, which I thought was just a display item and not for sale. Well, turns out it is, and it’s still available.

So anyway, finally about 2 weeks ago I finally stepped foot in the Polite Society. I’m not just saying this, but this is my newest favorite store. (and being one block away from the BB office is dangerously close.) They have gorgeous clothes and amazing one-of-a-kind home décor items. When I was there, I picked up a Helmut Lang little black dress, which at first I was hesitant on the fit, but then the lovely lady working there convinced me, “that’s the fit of the dress” so then I purchased it.. yeah, I’m an easy shopper. Also while there, I spotted the authentic LV trunk (Appraisal papers and authentication papers from the Louis Vuitton company included), still there, in excellent condition, neatly on display in the back corner of the store by the changing rooms.

Priced at $9850. And guess what ladies and guys, you don’t have travel all the way to Emerald City to get this rare piece (however if you do want to, I of course recommend it), visit shoppolitesociety.com.

Ps. If you are in the Downtown Belltown Seattle area, this is the newest boutiques to carry Rebecca Minkoff! Not many other downtown shops carry this designer. Oh and they also got tons of cute new fall clothes in for both men and women!

[ The Bag Forum: Vintage Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Steamer Trunk ]

August 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Yves Saint Laurent Woven Maia Satchel
Who doesn’t like finding designer goods at incredibly markdown prices? In case you gals aren’t aware, BagBorroworSteal has a members-only outlet, where you can find a nice selection of designer goods at great discount prices. I love the idea, as I tend to browse their outlet occasionally; you just never know what sorts of goods you’ll find. One of my favorite outlet finds would have to be Yves Saint Laurent’s Woven Maia Satchel. It’s no newbie, but I can’t help but love its overall design. I adore its structured silhouette and how its dark accents compliment finely to its neutral body. Ok maybe this bag isn’t exactly the best find for the coming season, but if you reside in an area where it scorchers year-round, such as I do, this YSL would make a great companion. Have I mentioned the best part of this YSL? It currently carries an amazing 50% off retail price tag? From $2,400 to $1,195, still a bit steep but definitely reduced. What do you ladies think about this bag? Is it too trendy for your taste or do you find this piece to be simply stunning instead?

Borrow or shop great Outlet finds over at: Bag Borrow or Steal

[ The Bag Forum: Yves Saint Laurent Woven Maia Satchel ]

August 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Jennifer

Yves Saint Laurent Man Bags
Just received an email from the lovely people over at YSL: New men’s bags are now in stock over at ysl.com

I love the men’s line of bags. So simple and classic, a bag that you could truly wear for years without going out of fashion.

Here are the guys pictured above:
Mombasa Messenger Bag.

Tumbled leather messenger bag with deer horn handle, adjustable strap and magnetic snap closure. 11” H x 10” W x 2.5” D. $895

What do you guys think of the horn detail?

Rivoli Tote Bag.

Quilted vinyl tote bag with attached zip wallet and inside cell phone pocket. $645

I don’t know the exact measurements of this one, but it looks like the perfect size for a day tote.

Muse Overnight Bag.

Tumbled leather overnight bag with brass hardware, detachable shoulder strap and luggage tag, double zipper, functional brass lock and key, and protective brass feet at base. 15” H x 24” W x 8.5” D. $2,195

I know this might sound odd, but I’m not that in love with the ladies Muse (museTwo is another story :wub2: ), but the men’s overnighter is just plain awesome. I like it.

Tanger Tote.

Tumbled leather bag with canvas and leather handle, detachable luggage tag, inside-zip pocket and protective brass feet at base. 17” H x 19” W x 4.5” D. $795

This sporty bag is perfect for all seasons – summer white or winter white.

Muse Briefcase.

Tumbled leather briefcase with brass hardware, functional brass lock and key, double zipper, inside-zip and cell phone pockets. 12” H x 15.5” W x 3” D. $1,195

The perfect guys work tote. I really love the box-ey shape, and of course the brass lock is a great addition.

Continue the chat: Yves Saint Laurent Man Bags now online

August 21, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: BrS

Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection – Now Available at Eluxury!
Listen up Bag Bliss readers! The Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection is now available at Eluxury! These bags have been receiving a lot of attention over at TBF. Everyone wanted to know when the bags would be available and how much they were retailing for. And do you know what the funny thing was? These were all women inquiring about these bags for themselves. It is true that they are “man bags”, but I think my fellow TBF’ers are on to something. I mean, the Damier print is just gorgeous in this color combination. Now if only Louis Vuitton would produce a Speedy in the Damier Graphite print (Psst… everyone over there at Louis Vuitton headquarters. Are you reading this?). But for now, I think everyone will just have to be satisfied with the styles that are currently available. Hmm, that Tadao would actually make a nice work bag for either a man OR a woman.

The Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Collection can be found within the Mens section for Louis Vuitton on Eluxury’s website. Pick one up for your man, or get one for yourself!
Pictured above (starting on the upper left and going clockwise):

Damier Graphite Grimaud – $1,840
Damier Graphite Keepall 55 – $1,270
Damier Graphite Ieoh – $1,330
Damier Graphite Tadao – $1,310

update: eluxury no longer exists

Shop the Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite on eBay!