Handbag
Web Round Up: Marc’s Muses, Spring Handbag Trend Guide, Flower Accessories, Free Lotion
The Cheap Chica digs up a great coupon find: print it out for a free sample of Pink Energizing body lotion!
Marc Jacobs has this to say about his modeling muse, to Vogue UK. (Marc’s Muses)
Handbag Heaven compiles a comprehensive Handbag Trend Guide for Spring 2009.
Cheap Chic Daily is feeling inspired by the New York Fashion Week runways and chooses flower hair accessories at from $3-$38. (Flower Shopping)
Up to $100 Off Shoes, Handbags at Endless.com
The Deal: Save up to $100 on select designer shoes and handbags
Shop: Endless.com
The Lowdown: With the economy as it is, it seems big sales on designer goods are becoming the rule rather than the exception. Which is great, but only if you are lucky enough to have some dough to spend in the first place.
Assuming that you do Endless.com is offering up to 100 bucks off select designer shoes and handbags, and we have to tell you, with Spring fashion on our brains, we are zeroing in on the Betsey Johnson sandals, like this Foster slingback wedge, on sale for $70.20 (regularly $164.95), or this Mariana Wedge Sandal, on sale for $80, regularly $180.90. We know, it’s not nice enough to wear them outside just yet, but we’ll warm up just staring at them in the box on those frigid winter nights.
Coach to bag more customers with lower prices
Remember a few years ago, when Kathryn wrote about the $10,000 Coach Bag?
Well….the economy is catching up to the struggling retailer and as a result, it will “add more collection and weight to the under-$300 price in order to gain share in a changed consumer marketplace.” So, while Coach purses may never be what we’d call cheap, some will be a little more affordable.
Will you respond to designer labels that cut prices by a hundred bucks, or will it take even more drastic measures to get your attention?
Save Up to 50% Off at Piperlime’s Tag Sale
The Deal: Enjoy up to 50% off on shoes and handbags at Piperlime
The Lowdown: We don’t know about you, but the winter doldrums are already starting to set in here at TBF, and assuming it’s in our budget (we’re balancing our checkbooks as we speak) the perfect cure might just be a fab pair of shoes. Or a handbag. We’re not picky. But they must be on sale—and free shipping and free returns on all orders, now offered by Piperlime, doesn’t hurt either.
Being practical and all, we want to get the most use for our money (remember Kathryn’s cost per wear formula) so if we’re spending more than $20 (which will get us all the trend we need at Tarjay, thanks) we’ll go for a neutral everyday bag like this Chinese Laundry Ring Tote for $49.99, or a shoe we’ll want to live in, like this Kenneth Cole Reaction Spice N Easy flat, $39.99, or these Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Ready to Spike ankle boots
, also $39.99.
Shop: Piperlime.com
Felix Rey for Target: New Designer Line
Target recently announced a new partnership with Lily Band and Sulaika Zarrouk of the handbag line Felix Rey.
From Target Press Release:
Target is partnering with acclaimed accessories designers Lily Band and Sulaika Zarrouk to launch a limited-edition handbag collection, Felix Rey for Target. This collection is the seventh handbag launch in a series of limited-time-only accessories designers at Target. The Felix Rey for Target collection will be available at select Target stores nationwide and on Target.com March 29 through June 14, 2009.
$50 Off Cole Haan Handbags at Smartbargains.com
THIS SALE HAS ENDED and THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD
The Deal: Get $50 off Cole Haan handbags at Smartbargains.com for one day only!
The Lowdown: Get $50 off Cole Haan handbags—and $25 off Cole Haan boots and shoes —for one day only. Cole Haan is high quality leather, so grabbing a piece for yourself—or to give as a gift this holiday season—at a discount just makes sense. We like this Softflap Shoulder Bag for something versatile—and practically all-season—for $99.99.
Shop: SmartBargains.com
Anya Hindmarch Handbags at Target
What: Anya Hindmarch handbags now available at Target
The Lowdown: In September we gave you the heads up that Anya Hindmarch handbags were on their way to Tar-jay, and now they’ve arrived—shop online or head to your local store to check out these bags, asap. Maybe it’s the chic structured design, or maybe it’s the rich color and shine, but these are the kind of bags that just reaffirm our belief that fab fashion is totally doable on a budget . . . Our fave? It’s hard to pick, but right this second we’ve got our eye on this Anya Hindmarch for Target Tote Bag in Black/ Chocolate/Gold for $49.99. Don’t have 50 bucks to part with? No worries—this Python Clutch in black/chocolate is only $19.99.
Budget Handbags
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: Handbags updates for fall that won’t require a federal bailout for your bank account.
What We Say: Right now, the word “budget” has new meaning for many of us, in light of the current state of the economy. That doesn’t stop the fashion world, however, from dangling the season’s new handbag trends (among others) tantilizingly in front of us. A handbag, of course, is something we might normally suggest you could invest a little more in, but if your cash is limited and your wardrobe could use a quick and inexpensive boost, we’re thinking that a very budget version (under 20 bucks) of one of the season’s hot styles is just the thing to a) boost your mood, b) boost your style quotient, and c) keep you solvent for another week or two.
The Clutch
For at least a couple of seasons now, the clutch has been the handbag to have. This fall is no different, and texture and color are key. We like:
City Style Snake Clutch, in 6 colors, $16.95, New York & Company
Alexis Reptile Clutch, $18.80, Forever 21
Filond Croc Print Clutch, on sale $9.98, Aldo
Mossimo Embossed Clutch, purple, $16.99, Target
The Satchel
Satchels are kind of a happy medium between a traditional structured shoulder bag and the big roomy hobos we see everywhere. Color and shine keep the look modern, and chain detail is big for fall as well. We like:
Xhilaration Ombre Satchel, $16.99, Target
Limited Edition Satchel, on sale $19.99, Target
Belted Satchel, $19.99, Charlotte Russe
The Postal/Messenger/Crossbody Bag
Need a bag that’s both form and function? You’ll find the postal/messenger/crossbody bag (yes, it’s a broad category) to be stylish and useful, and modern, as long as you keep the color-texture-shine mantra in mind. We like:
City Style Crinkle Messenger, on sale $14.97, New York & Company
Xhilaration Crossbody Bag, $12.99, Target
City Style Crossover Logo, on sale $13.97, New York & Company
Free Shipping on Handbags at Endless.com
The Deal: Handbags ship for free overnight from Endless.com
The Lowdown: A fab new handbag is just what the fashion doctor ordered for the season, and Endless.com is one of our fave sources—and free overnight shipping? Hello—that’s what we’re talkin’ about. Need a clutch suitable for going out? We looove this Jessica Simpson Sapphire Clutch ($65.90-$78). But don’t stop there . . .
Shop: Endless.com
Fashion Trend: Cross Body Purses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
A friend of ours recently arrived to a party with a small, white leather bag with a long strap worn across her chest. Inspired by her off-the-beaten-path style, we set out to find these purses at our favorite shopping haunts. Since our friend is in love with fashion, we weren’t surprised to find that the small purse is growing in popularity; we assume it’s a reaction to the gigantic totes and hobos we’ve been carrying for a few seasons, and we’re happy to see that there are more options out there for those of us who don’t carry everything and the kitchen sink on our shoulders. The return of the clutch heralded the return of smaller purses, and the options are encouraging. But don’t worry about looking like you came from the 80’s in a time machine—this millennium’s embellishments, fabrics and details have been applied to the decades-old shapes.
Use the chain-link strap that comes with this raffia clutch from Old Navy—it’s currently $4.99.
If you want a more classic purse, try this camera purse from Urban Outfitters. We love its rich cognac color. Now $24.99
The snake trim clutch from Topshop is a bit of a splurge, but since it’s quality leather, you’ll keep it for years. 30 pounds.
This little red cross body purse was found in a thrift shop and embellished with pieces of jewelry. The quilted pattern is classy and traditional, while the bright red keeps it from looking outdated. $19.00.
The Satchel Bag: Daily Poll
Product Info:
Coach Legacy Leather Satchel in Brass/Amethyst.
What to Buy Fall 2008: Walmart
Some of you might turn your nose up (still) at shopping for clothes at Walmart, but it’s our experience that amidst some of the fashion don’ts, Walmart is also a source of some super-affordable, surprisingly decent quality style do’s. And in this economy? We are sooo not above a cute wrap dress for under $20. We’ve picked some basics that will become part of your regular wardrobe rotation well into winter . . .
George ME Women’s Flounced Tweed Skirt, $19.82
George ME Ibiza Jacket, on clearance $8
Mock-Croc Laptop Tote Bag, $25
No Boundaries High Heel Mary Jane’s, $16.74
George Women’s Jersey Sleeveless Belted Faux Wrap Dress, $19.82
Anya Hindmarch Handbags Up Next at Target
What: Anya Hindmarch signs on for the next limited edition handbag collection for Target
The Lowdown: Target is partnering with internationally-acclaimed accessories designer Anya Hindmarch to launch a limited-edition handbag collection, Anya Hindmarch for Target®. In a fall-ready palette of chocolate, gold and black, the collection features patent finishes and contrasting colors on satchels, shoulder bags and clutches. This is the sixth handbag launch in a series of limited-time-only accessories at Target, and will be available at most Target stores nationwide and at Target.com October 12 through December 26, 2008. Prices will range from $19.99 to $49.99.
What We Say: With Hindmarch’s designer handbags running anywhere from $995-$6,500, we’re thinking the under 50 bucks pricepoint is just where we want to be—and the designs for the Target line look nearly as rich and sumptuous as their high end line. Our pick? We really liked everything we’ve seen, but we’re going with this chic patent flap tote in tan/metallic gold.
Hayden-Harnett to Design Limited Edition Handbag Line for Target
What: Designers Toni Hacker and Ben Harnett will launch a limited-edition handbag collection, Hayden-Harnett for Target, due to appear in stores Dec. 28.
What We Say: There’s been a flurry of activity this week at Tar-jey; after yesterday’s announcement that Thakoon will design the next Go International line for the retailer, now we know that on the handbag front, Toni Hacker and Ben Harnett are the next up in Target’s series of limited-edition designer handbag collections. No images or samples are yet available, so we’re not sure what the collection is shaping up like, but if you take a peek at the Hayden-Harnett website, you’ll get a feel for what they do. For us, their high-end bags are beautiful but quite honestly not so much different in styling than what we already see at Target (big metallic satchels and totes, chain and fringe detail). Which could mean that either their bags will fit in perfectly with the Target shoppers’ sensibility, or they might not stand out from current offerings at all. We’ll keep you posted . . .
Pictured: Hayden-Harnett Tamasin Tote, $495
The Ombre Handbag: High Vs. Low
Ombre patent handbags are going to be hot for fall—and while we’re kind of coveting the look we’re also trying to show some self-restraint, reminding ourselves that ombre will be soooo dated before you can say “fancy French word for dip-dyed.” Still, it’s actually pretty easy to indulge in this particular short-term trend on a budget without having the piece look cheap. Testing that theory, we’re pitting a high-priced bag against an affordable version, for your consideration. So which is which?
On the left, the high-priced piece, an Elliot Lucca Portia Pocket Shopper, $398, at Hobby Fob; on the right, the budget version, a Worthington Patent Dome Satchel, $29.99 on sale at JCPenney
Pamela Pekerman on HSN: News Alert
What: Pamela Pekerman, bagtrends.com founder and VH1 fashion correspondent will appear tomorrow night, June 27, starting at midnight and throughout the day on HSN to discuss CALLA handbags. Tune into HSN or HSN.com, to purchase the Today’s Special CALLA Concord Satchel in croco-embossed black, rose, bronze, steel or camel material for $59.90. Pamela will talk about the function and fashion appeal of the bag as well as fall handbag trends.
What We Say: CALLA is a new diffusion line from Charm and Luck designer Jenny Syquia. Charm and Luck handbags have been seen on the arms of Hollywood startlets and now is your time to purchase budget versions from the same creators! This particular bag can be worn any time of the day since it has lots of room for the stuff you need to lug around during the day but it’s also really cute for night time, too.
Stylish Work Totes on a Budget: Fashion Advice
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I need some help finding a stylish tote for work! I have a great purse, but I need a tote for my lunch, a book, and some miscellany (like paperwork) that I might carry. Any suggestions?
Answer: Try the Suede Bowling Bag (shown above, $59.00 at Spiegel.com) will hold all of your items, while not weighing you down or this Multi-Buckle Canvas Tote ($21.99 at LaRedoute) is a great basic work bag. If you’re looking for something a little more “Spring”, try this Merona Tote ($14.99 at Target). For a tote that’s a little more fashion forward, try the Shiraleigh Candance tote ($40 at ebags) or this Multi-colored Nautical Tote ($47.69 at Baghaus.com).
So You Want: The Dooney Burke Giraffe Print Handbag
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
So you want the Dooney & Bourke ‘Giraffe Large’ Sac Handbag, ($395.00 at Nordstrom.com).....
Then buy this handbag ($40 at baghaus.com)
Fashion Advice: How to Buy A Purse
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I’m searching for a black handbag for daily use that will last for years. I am a stay at home mom, who does not have many handbags. I want to invest in a good black purse and make sure it is one that I will use and love for years. My question is this: What do I look for? Is there some sort list of questions I should ask myself before purchasing so that I do not have a remorse purchase?
Here’s seven quick things you should do when looking for a quality handbag:
1. Smell It. Leather has a certain, slightly gamey smell to it. If it has no smell or smells like plastic, then most likely it’s fake.
2. Do the oil test. Rub your finger on your skin or hair and then rub it on the leather of the purse. If it leaves a stain or a streak then it’s not quality leather and/or it hasn’t been treated properly. Good Leather repeals oil.
3. Check the stitching. Gently pull the bag the seams- does the stitching pull? If so, the imagine what will happen when you put all your stuff in there.
4. Do the scratch test. Gently scratch the surface of the bag. If the color of the scratch is different than the rest of the bag, than means the leather was painted on, rather than dyed through, and at some point the paint will chip. Also scratch the surface of the hardware to see if it’s true metal or painted metallic . Again, if it’s painted on, at some point it will chip.
5. Put it on your shoulder. It is comfortable or does it feel like it’s slipping off your shoulder. It doesn’t matter how cute the bag is, if it’s not comfortable
6. Do the fit test. Take everything out of your current bag and place it inside the bag under consideration. Does it fit? If not, you easier have to get rid of some of the stuff in your bag (which is probably a good idea) or move on to the next candidate.
7. Check to see if it’s lined. Lining, both in handbags and in clothing, is a sign of a higher quality garment because it costs the manufacturer extra to add it it. In the case of handbags, lining protects the leather of the bag from the wear and tear of the contents of your bag.
8. Keep the embellishments to a minimum. The one thing that can really date a bag is the use of embellishments like feathers or dated fabrics (think stonewashed denim). Make sure the bag has basic black stitching and hardware that errs on the simple side.
The $10,000 Coach Legacy Alligator Bag: Coach Has Lost It’s #$% Mind
You never forget your first….
For my 16th birthday, I received my first designer handbag, a black Coach Saddle bag. Back in the day (early 90s), Coach was like THE handbag to have, right up there with Liz Claiborne and Esprit. I loved that bag more than life itself and for a while, I was officially the coolest kid at Washburn Senior High.
Coach continues to occupy a special place in my heart, but they have lost their #$% minds with the release of the $10,000 Coach Legacy Alligator Bag. When I first read about this bag, on the lovely blog bagsnob, I seriously thought it was a joke. In my humble opinion, $10,000 for any bag is wacko, but who, in their right mind, would pay $10,000 for a Coach handbag? Especially one that resembles a a bag I recently saw at Lord & Taylor for less than $100 by budget bag designer, Kathy Van Zeeland. Could you imagine paying that much for a Coach bag and then seeing the same bag at TJ Maxx, where all Coach bags go to die, for like $200 bucks?
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