Archive for September, 2011
A handbag, after all, is a utilitarian creation
Sometimes, the little things count. A handbag, after all, is a utilitarian creation made beautiful because of its utter necessity – a bag that was difficult to carry would be useless to most women. As such, there are only so many design alteration that you can make to a bag, and I often think that making a beautiful bag with minimal design innovations is much more difficult than making a bag that’s art first and useful second. Which is why I love the Prada Cervo Lux Shoulder Bag – because, at it’s heart, it’s just a purse. It’s a tote that would hold everything you need with two straps long enough to toss it over your shoulder. Its magnetic closure is easy to fasten and unfasten, and its corners and strap attachments are reinforced for durability. It’s a bag that’s meant to be used instead of gazed upon. There’s a rivet here and a chain detail there (I love the straps), but it’s almost unnerving in it’s simplicity. Prada makes some gimmicky bags, for sure, but I think it’s probably bags like this one that earn them such devoted fans. Gucci Replica New for Spring/Summer 2008 is the Louis Vuitton Watercolor Speedy 35. This unique line is the iconic House’s newest take on the classic Speedy shape, releasing the beautiful color palette on canvas just last Thursday. More expensive exotic bags with the print had been out since mid-March, from the best of my knowledge. Meaghan had been on the waiting list for a while, thanks to the wonderful staff at Louis Vuitton Bal Harbour, FL, I was able to pick up this gorgeous bag for her while she’s out touring through Spain. I attached my trusty 60mm Micro Nikkor to the D300 body, and we had ourselves a cozy photo shoot in the back yard by the pool. The colors of the watercolor printed canvas complement the Florida weather well, today’s sunshine really made the colors stand out. I am sure my fiancee will enjoy the Speedy thoroughly after getting back from Europe! Sadly, this special edition Speedy runs for a whole lot more than the regular Monogram canvas version: $1,270.00. However, it represents a “financially responsible” alternative to LV limited editions without having to dash out many thousands for an exotic bag. If interested, inquire at your local LV boutique to have your name entered on the waiting list.
The PurseBlog team wants to wish all of you a Happy Easter and Passover! We decided to spring into the holiday with some bunny accessories, because they are the perfect addition to your Spring wardrobe. On the Savvy side, I found the Coach Mink Bunny Key Fob which I plan to put on my key ring for spring. Although it is white leather and fur and may get dirty easier, I love having something light and fluffy to hang my keys on and this Coach key fob is so cute. Price is $38 via Coach (style number is #92869). If you are looking for a bag charm, Hermes is known to entice with their circular leather animal charms like the bunny I have. Vlad got me this for Christmas and it is such a fun way to give my bag a little extra character. Seeing a smiling bunny face dangle from my bag really adds a nice touch. Buy via Hermes. Replica Hermes Handbags As they say, the devil is in the details. Well, in the world of high-end handbags, sometimes that’s where you can find the design as well. And it’s the details that bring me back to the Gucci Crest Boule Fabric Tote over and over again. We’ve all seen plenty of ho-hum (and some slightly more than ho-hum) canvas totes from this brand over the years; besides their signature horsebit details, it’s probably one of the things for which they’re best known. But none has been so precise and sleek as this beauty right here. It’s possible that the exclusion of the Gucci signature from this tote is what makes it look so clean and sophisticated, but I think it’s more than that. The thick leather trim and handles give the bag a heft and structure that few canvas totes have, and it makes it look a lot more purposeful and expensive-looking than other bags of this variety. The one thing I can’t get behind, though, is the price – even one of the nicest canvases totes I’ve ever seen still isn’t worth almost two grand. For that kind of dosh, I’m going to need leather
It had appeared to us on
We continued our excursion through Bal Harbour Shops, and obviously the Gucci store had to be one of our stops as well. It had appeared to us on several earlier occasions that employees of exclusive stores didn’t really seem to be too eager to consult a couple in the mid-20s (as opposed to the usual clientele of the older 40+ stash that usually seems to be roaming their grounds) about their newest and hottest items. We decided to give another approach a try. Megs’ mom was kind enough to let her daughter sport her horsebit hobo that she’s gotten a few weeks ago, and let me tell you — the store experience was slightly different. Let’s just say that Gucci does honor their recurring customer base. We did spend a good hour in there and we have particularly three bags in mind that require coverage today. As I mentioned last night, BH stores enjoy the presence of special limited items that others around the country just have to miss out on. One of these stores was Gucci and the item in focus was the Gucci Crocodile and Ostrich Patchwork Bag. It was showcased in its own window on the side of the store all by itself and was just glaring at us with handcrafted details and superb materials. The friendly salesman (whose name I can’t recall, I’ll dig up his biz card later) brought it out for us to inspect — in my opinion the best $22,700 spent *if* you have them to spend on a bag. The blonde crocodile and ostrich patchwork, along with the bamboo detail and the gold hardware on the strap make the bag’s bite match the bark. Fantastic! Talking about exclusivity, there are only 10 (read: ten) of these made worldwide, and we got to appreciate it in its gorgeous entirety. The picture I pulled off the Gucci page shows the right bag — however, the strap on the one that we saw was much longer than the one depited here. Hermes Replica Bag Not everyone is in a torrid love affair with Louis Vuitton‘s seemingly omnipresent monogram, but when the brand’s design minds really hit overdrive, occasionally they find a creative and appropriate use for it that I can’t help but like. Already a celebrity favorite, the Louis Vuitton Antheia Hobo is clearly one of those occasions when the monogram mania feels oh so right. It doesn’t hurt that the monogram in question is embroidered on top of luscious lambskin, the kind of leather which could make any design fantastic. The choice of tonal thread instead of a contrasting color is the detail that puts this bag over the top for me.
The fashion world was buzzing over news that Rihanna would be teaming up with Gucci. Rihanna is known for her funky style, young appeal, never ending legs, and brilliant voice. Gucci creative director Frida Giannini has said, “I wanted Rihanna on board with this project because she’s so young, so modern, and so iconic.” Rihanna adds, “I have always been a fan of the Gucci brand and the products, especially their handbags. But most of all, I’m very very intrigued by what they’re doing with UNICEF. As an artist, I feel like it’s our duty to make it a better place if we can. I’m blown away by what UNICEF has been able to accomplish in Africa with the money that Gucci has donated to them. I’m very fortunate to be part of this wonderful collaboration.” Lv Replica I am actually surprised. I have to say anytime I think Burberry, the traditional check print comes to mind. I am sure many of you think the same way. So honestly, when I saw the Burberry Metallic Leather Shoulder Bag, I was wondering if I forgot to put my contacts in this morning. I guess I am just not used to a Burberry handbag or piece of clothing without the traditional check print. Ok, I’m over it, let’s talk about the bag. The pewter metallic leather bag has silver hardware, studded plate trip, and contrast shiny leather panels. I like when I see brands branch out and try new things. I am just wondering if we are all ready for this kind of change. The bag certainly had a modern feel which is so polar opposite to the traditional pattern we are all accustom to. I have to say I appreciate the effort behind the design and the desire to appeal to a new market. However, I think the bag looks a little too modern for me. Actually, now that I think of it, the bag looks a little too Judy Jetson for my liking. Yet, at the same time, with the right outfit, you could totally make the bag work. Man, it sounds like I can’t make up my mind. I blame it on how shocked I am that this is a Burberry bag. What do you think – did Burberry take a step in the right or wrong direction?
Rendered in super-supple lambskin, the design
Back in 2006, Prada made lots of waves among handbag aficionados with their ruched Gaufré handbags. Rendered in super-supple lambskin, the design was a great example of how texture can be achieved through clever design, even within the sometimes austere Prada aesthetic. The bags were neutral but still interesting to look at, and the combination made them some of my favorites that the brand has ever produced. Gaufré’s initial production run was only a few season, but now they’re back in new colors and shapes for Fall/Winter 2010. We’ve seen several “old favorites” from the past five years make a return to production in recent months, and this line is the only one whose return brings me any sort of genuine excitement. Are you excited for the Gaufré’s return? Top Replica We have disappointed some with our lack of Man Bag Monday features, and for that I apologize. However, we are back on track now and while Vlad covered a novelty idea earlier today I have a full on leather bag to share. Right when I saw this pop up on Neiman Marcus I knew I would cover it. If you had to ask me what type of man bag I am drawn to, this Prada bag is it. I love the idea of masculine and rugged yet not overly structured bag. This bag has it all for me, does it have it for you?
Honestly, I am nothing but grateful that paparazzi do not follow me around and photograph me. Because I guarantee you that I look nothing like Victoria Beckham arriving at any airport, ever. I won’t lie, my attempt to travel in style across the ocean usually involves stretched-out-size-too-big-jeans, a nice sweater, and sneakers. And even if Victoria Beckham changes while on board into something more comfy, I still feel badly for her. Here Victoria Beckham was spotted arriving in London at Heathrow airport over the weekend sporting her beautiful Hermes Tricolor Kelly. Victoria Beckham is a huge fan of the Hermes Kelly style, as we have seen her carrying many of the versions, including: Hermes Kelly Longue, Hermes Kelly Pochette, Hermes Kelly Lizard Pochette, Black Kelly, and a white Hermes Kelly with orange piping. And while many are not huge fans of VB, I really love her coat with this tricolor Kelly and her Louboutins. Designer Wallets Prada’s Spring 2008 Handbags caught worldwide attention when the Prada Fairy Bag was placed in the spotlight. The Fairy bag was whimsical, a departure from the norm, and highly coveted. In fact it was one of the first Prada bags in the past few years that garnered so much attention people were putting themselves on waitlists to try to get it. Since the Fairy Bag, Prada has not released another bag that created even a tenth of the buzz the Fairy bag did. When I saw the new Prada Print Roll Bags it was evident that Prada is trying to find another hit. The question is do these print roll bags evoke the same response the Fairy Bag did?
This unique line is the iconic House’s
New for Spring/Summer 2008 is the Louis Vuitton Watercolor Speedy 35. This unique line is the iconic House’s newest take on the classic Speedy shape, releasing the beautiful color palette on canvas just last Thursday. More expensive exotic bags with the print had been out since mid-March, from the best of my knowledge. Meaghan had been on the waiting list for a while, thanks to the wonderful staff at Louis Vuitton Bal Harbour, FL, I was able to pick up this gorgeous bag for her while she’s out touring through Spain. I attached my trusty 60mm Micro Nikkor to the D300 body, and we had ourselves a cozy photo shoot in the back yard by the pool. The colors of the watercolor printed canvas complement the Florida weather well, today’s sunshine really made the colors stand out. I am sure my fiancee will enjoy the Speedy thoroughly after getting back from Europe! Sadly, this special edition Speedy runs for a whole lot more than the regular Monogram canvas version: $1,270.00. However, it represents a “financially responsible” alternative to LV limited editions without having to dash out many thousands for an exotic bag. If interested, inquire at your local LV boutique to have your name entered on the waiting list. Designer Replica Wallets The Gucci Tribeca Medium Shoulder Bag is a disaster. Of epic proportions. And that’s coming from someone that normally really likes Gucci, even when they get a bit wacky with their designs. I usually understand what they’re up to, but here…there just are no words. It’s a big bag with a skinny, tiny strap – bad proportions! It’s got a textured heart inset placed randomly on the front – icky! And it’s got a big ol’ tattoo design in the tradition of the geniuses (and I say that facetiously) over at Ed Hardy right smack dab in the middle. Eww. I’ve heard rumblings of unhappiness with the Cruise collection over in our Gucci section on the forum, but I figured it would still have some redeeming qualities to most of the bags. Some of them aren’t so bad, but this? This is bad. I say this out of love, Gucci. I want you to make beautiful things. So please, for Spring, try harder
We don’t often write about men’s accessories in these parts, but the manbags (and gloves and belts and sunglasses and shoes…) that just debuted in Paris for Louis Vuitton Fall 2011 are too good to pass up. I don’t personally know too many men who carry clutches, but most of the hand-held bags would make great travel accessories to carry inside the collection’s larger options. Or, if I get my way, they’d also be great to loan to a ladyfriend. Full pictures after the jump. Designer Replica Purses Marc Jacobs is doing something quirky and cool with his spring bag collection and we are loving it! Last night I posted on our Twitter and Facebook asking people what handbag they have passed up recently and regret it. While I could think of a few, I had this nagging image in the back of my mind, of a totally off-the-wall Marc Jacobs bag that somehow is speaking to me. Do you remember the Marc Jacobs Fluorescent Tweed Bag? It is completely tacky, over-done, and lovely. Yes, I said lovely. Why am I feeling so drawn to this crazy mish-mash of tweed, patent leather, and colorful baubbles? I don’t know. But I adore that bag.
The handbags mostly stayed clear of the
It has often seemed as though Jean Paul Gaultier’s favorite thing to do on the Hermes runway is riff on the classics that make the brand so iconic and successful, and Hermes Spring 2011, Gaultier’s swan song with the brand, was a horse-tastic, S&M-tinged ode to exactly those tendencies. The handbags mostly stayed clear of the psychosexual leanings of clothing, but that isn’t to say that they weren’t interesting. If I told you that the bag to the left were actually made of real, honest-to-God crocodile, would you think I was lying? I wouldn’t blame you if you did, because I’ve never before encountered crocodile skin that I could see through, but Style.com seems to indicate that it’s the genuine article. From that to picnic basket and fanny pack Kellys and tiny Birkins hanging from cuff bracelets, it seems as though Gaultier had a fine time with his last trip through the Hermes accessory archives. Top Replica My family is very health-conscious. When I was growing up, not one kid in the lunch room ever wanted to trade lunch items with me. Why? Because they had a Twinkie and I had cut up green pepper sticks. I was that kid, but I didn’t care. Except on Christmas morning, when I would run to find my stocking and open it, I’m not going to lie I was a bit disappointed. The bottom of my stocking would be an orange, I would have some organic dark chocolate, and that was it food wise. I wanted all that bad stuff. Give me Hersey’s Kisses, Butterfinger Bells, REESE’S Peanut Butter Cup Trees. What I would take at the bottom of my stocking this year in place of an organic orange is this Gucci Mouse Purse because it is all kinds of awesome. No need to take life too seriously, and this coin purse showcases exactly that: HAVE FUN.
It takes a lot for me to like a suede bag, but Gucci has gone and done just that. I’m already on the record as being a fan of their “1973″ line for fall, but I was a little bit dubious of the Gucci 1973 Medium Satchel until I saw the red suede version. Because of the tactile nature of suede, colors usually end up looking muted when the finished product arrives. I like my colors vibrant, which contributes to my usual distaste for the material. In this case, though, the orange-y hue comes through loud and clear, taking advantage of suede’s texture without sacrificing vibrancy. Gucci Replica Bags Gucci has released several high tech handbag series for Spring Summer 2010, including “Techno Horsebit” and “Techno Tag”. I guess the name “Techno” simply implies extremely craftsmanship. A real noble designer bag needs no luxury exotic animal skin or dazzling embellishment. It simply combines ultra craftsmanship and top quality materials together, just like this Gucci “Techno Tag” Medium Tote. This Gucci bag pattern exists in three styles, one is made of grey neoprene GG with grey leather trim, one is made of beige and ebony GG fabric with brown leather trim and the one I am going to present is made of snow white Guccissima leather with white leather trim. Beside sophisticated workmanship, this Gucci bag is also known for the luggage tag detail, which is not only your status statement, but also convenient for those on business. This designer bag is sized at 34 x 15 x 26 cm, offering a modest capacity for lady carrying. Opening this bag via hidden snap closure, you will see cotton linen lining and inside zip pockets for holding cell phone and PDA. What should not be omitted is that the bag has bottom feet for ultra protection.
I think this bag should
This week I found it hard to find a new IT bag because there are so many but the Gucci Belt Bag is a classic IT bag. I think this bag should be called Madonna because its re-invented itself so much. Gucci have re-invented it again for their Cruise line with bright vibrant colors blue and pink. I know that lots of tPF members favour this bag and I myself have it in denim from a few seasons back. I love just walking around not having to hold anything. It is such a popular bag that you have to have one, I bought mine after seeing Carrie from Sex and the City with hers. It can even be worn across your back like a messenger. I find it useful for everyday use and think its a steal at $395 for the smaller version. The Gucci belt bag has Front pocket with Velcro flap closure, front pocket with zip closure, rear zip pocket and adjustable waist or shoulder strap Hermes Bracelet Replica The bags of Burbery Fall 2010 are kind of a shame when you consider the brilliant collection from whence they came. Not only are they plain and boring, but they weren’t even close to being the most interesting leather pieces in the show – that honor went to the many heavily-detailed leather jackets and vests that graced the runway. For all the intricate leather work that clearly went into the jackets, the handbags were shown none of the same attention by Christopher Bailey & Co. In fact, they were arguably the lowest point of a line I really, truly loved in almost every way. I don’t mind purses being used as bright, poppy accents to a larger look, but designers should at least take the time to make the bags special as well. The latticed python seen on a few pieces was an interesting-enough technique, but the simplistic shapes don’t do anything to help the cause. Full pictures, after the jump.
At first I only saw the picture on the right, the nutmeg version of this tote. To me it was great. A simple leather tote with simplicity as its focus. I liked the shape, I liked that it was slouchy, I loved the rich nutmeg color. But then I saw the picture on the right, the black version of this bag. And the bag lost its luster for me. When stretched out the length of the bag gets long and lanky, and looks like it will just hang aimlessly from your arm. So I am torn down the middle when looking at the Burberry Drawstring Leather Tote. Do I believe it will look more like the nutmeg version on the left or will it loose its composure as the black version does on the right? My problem is that with the thin shoulder straps, it looks as if the bag could just hang from your body and dig into your shoulder. Leaving an uncomfortable feeling on your arm and a bag that begins to look more and more like a sac dangling. But I am still loving the nutmeg version. The style of this bag is very laid-back and the drawstring/snap closure would make this bag easy to get in and out of while securing tightly. Dimensions are 18½”W X 17″H X 3″D. The price is amazing for a large leather tote. I guess I am looking for you to push me one way or the other: What do you think? Top Replica Handbags It is back! Remember the infamous Gucci Baby Carrier that I covered in 2005? And if you do not remember, it is most likely because you had no idea this site existed, and that makes perfect sense since our traffic was minuscule compared to what it is now. For some reason this Designer Baby Carrier caused quite the ruckus! Some loved it, some hated it, some hated those that loved it and vice versa. In fact, I was baffled at the comments that post received. And then I revived it showing Gwen Stefani carry baby Kingston in her Gucci Baby Carrier. Gwen pulls off the Gucci baby carrier magnificently, she looks so effortlessly chic, per usual. But should we trust the Gucci Baby Carrier to be the safest mode of transport for our young ones? That question is ultimately up to you, but I do question if this carrier puts style in front of safety.
For example, Chanel, a brand that always shows
Cruise show season is kind of odd – instead of having a proper Fashion Week where all of the collections are presented together, they’re released slowly in shows around America and Europe, each with very different backdrops and moods. For example, Chanel, a brand that always shows at Paris Fashion Week, chose to present its Cruise collection this year on a Venice boardwalk. Louis Vuitton, another house that traditionally shows in Paris, didn’t have a real show at all – instead, the clothes were presented as we see them here. It’s a more understated choice for a more informal season and smaller collection, but that doesn’t mean the sailor-and-pinup-inspired clothes and accessories are any less exciting. In fact, they’re refreshingly clean and pretty, but with just enough 80s urban influence to put Louis Vuitton creative director Marc Jacobs’ signature spin on the retro looks. Replica Hermes Handbags This summer my job was less than 100 feet from the side entrance of the David Letterman Late Show. What this meant was many visits to that side door to see the celeb of the day. The stars that appear on Letterman are always dressed to impress and the ladies carry the hippest handbags. This week a certain celeb paired her little black dress with a Burberry Handbag. While I can not find an exact match for the handbag, this bag resembles the Burberry Icons Collection Manor Bag. The Manor Bag shows off quilted house check with leather trim, handles and polished brass hardware (available via Burberry for $1295). Do you know the ‘celeb’ (calling her a celeb is really just relative) seen outside of Letterman with this Burberry bag? Find out after the jump
This week comes the ‘holiday’ that women and men alike share a love hate relationship with. Vlad is certain that this ‘holiday’ is just blown out of proportion by the Hallmark’s and the candy stores to turn a profit after the holidays. Furthermore, he truly thinks if you love someone you love them everyday and show it everyday. Yes, I agree, but I also love seeing people go out of their ways to think of something sweet for their sweetheart and let’s face it, who doesn’t love to be pampered on Valentine’s Day?? So today I am making a list of great Valentine’s Day gifts from Louis Vuitton. The prices range from more affordable to super expensive. Either way, if your gal loves designer goods, nabbing something from a luxury house like Louis Vuitton is sure to make her heart pitter-patter. To give your guy a hint, just send him this list and let him choose one of the beauties below! Top Replica Handbags I’ve been writing about more Burberry bags lately than I ever have before, and I’ve been trying to figure out why. Larger collection this season? No, I remember a lot of bags from previous season. New handbag designer at the brand? I can’t find any information about that online, so I guess it’s possible that someone with a new point-of-view has come in to shake things up. But overall, I think the reason that I’ve noticed them more than I have in previous seasons is that they’re just BETTER than they have been. I’m much more impressed than I previously have been with them. So today, in our Endless Parade of Burberry Handbags That Amanda Likes, we have the Burberry Prorsum Willow Leather Clutch. Like the brand’s other recently featured bags, they’ve worked the leather in a way that gives the bag an enormous amount of texture – the little leather squares flake up like python scales, but would theoretically be much more durable than the often-delicate exotic. It’s got a little wrist strap and a cell phone pocket inside, plus it’s a great neutral color with an interesting textural concept – where do I sign up for one?
When her Monster Ball tour landed recently in Tokyo, La
If you’re a fan of the Hermes Birkin (or simply not a fan of Lady Gaga), gird your loins for this one. When her Monster Ball tour landed recently in Tokyo, La Gagita was seen in the airport carrying a white Hermes Birkin inscribed with a message that loosely translates to “I love small monster. Toyko love.” In case you’re not familiar with the Gaga vernacular, “little monsters” is the name that she uses to refer to her fans, so her Birkin message was a shout-out to those that would be attending her Japanese shows. Using accessories and the paparazzi to communicate – clever, or not so much? Regular readers of the blog will know that I’m a huge Lady Gaga fangirl, so I think it’s fairly clever. It’s not the most interesting thing she’s ever done, but playing with fashion and blurring the lines of social acceptability are two things that are integral to her public image, and not only does a Sharpie’d Birkin combine those things effectively, but it has managed set tongues wagging all over the internet. Designer Replica Handbags While her choice of outfits may be in left field, Victoria Beckham picks her style and goes all the way. She could wear a plastic bag and make it look amazing, giving off all the confidence in the world in any piece she adorns her svelte body with. She and her husband, David Beckham, spent Saturday night out for dinner at Nobu, where they were swarmed with paparazzi on their way in and out of dinner. Victoria sported a couture green mini dress while carrying a Hermes Kelly Lizard Pochette in her hand. The color of her Kelly Pochette is a stunning green hue, Vert Amande (note that colors in the lizard family are not the same name as that of ostrich or croc). We already knew she had the Hermes collection that any fashionable woman would pine for, but it is such a pleasure to have her tease us and show off a new handbag every outing.
As most of you already know, Spain won the World Cup title in overtime against Netherlands yesterday in front of a crowd of 88,000 in Johannesburg, South Africa. It marks the country’s first World Cup final win in the history of the tournament, and surely the players couldn’t be more proud to take the trophy back to Spain. They won’t be taking just the trophy, however. This year, Louis Vuitton designed a special carrying case (complete with a spot for white gloves, natch) to display the trophy and move it around South Africa. Right, because Louis Vuitton monogram is so discreet. One day, I’d like to win something so cool that it requires its own custom Vuitton case. Designer Replica Purses I’m kind of shocked, really – a Prada leather bag for less than a thousand dollars? At first I wondered if the price was correct, but it hasn’t changed in the couple of weeks that the bag has been on the Saks website, so it must be correct. I doubt this is the brand’s response to the recession – Prada doesn’t seem like the type of brand that intends to acknowledge it at all – but for whatever reason they chose to produce the reasonably priced Prada Vitello Shine Hobo, and I’m pretty pleased with it. Odds are that the gorgeous purple color is making me more enthusiastic than I would be otherwise (it reminds me of my favorite Balenciaga color of all time, 2007 violet), but color is such an important part of a bag’s personality that I’m completely okay with that. Prada always uses excellent leathers and high-quality construction, so I don’t doubt that the bag will last for quite a long time indeed. The only thing left to consider is the structure: it’s boring, I’ll admit, but it’s also highly functional, and the beautiful shade of purple makes up for the simple shape. Considering the price of this bag relative to others in Miuccia’s arsenal, I’m pretty pleased