Custom Design

It might be a bit early to declare box bags as a trend, but the sight of Victoria Beckham carrying one a little while back and now the appearance of fall’s Alexander Wang Tai Dopp Kit Bag make it seem as though more such bags will come out of the woodwork in the near future. Boxes certainly fit with the emerging trend of petite, streamlined, slightly retro handbags, and if you want to hop on this look before all of your friends know about it, we’ve got a few suggestions – one that plays up the bag’s grey tone, another that accents the creams and beiges.

The Bag

Alexander Wang Tai Dopp Kitt Bag – It comes in both embossed natural python and black leather, but since mixing patterns is also a fall trend, this seems like a perfect time to wade into those waters a bit and see how things go. The black version, of course, could be mixed into a wardrobe in a similar way to a large black clutch.

The closure and structure of this bag make it easily more interesting than any clutch in my closet, though, and I’m betting the same is true for you. That the short handle must be held by hand will make it unwieldy in some daytime situations, but it’s such a cool, different bag that it would be worth the tradeoff. Buy through ShopBop for $795.

Daytime – Edgy

Helmut Lang Raven Top – This silk and jersey asymmetrical top is full of color inspiration for any number of different outfits, but pairing it with neutrals in different textures allows the subtle pattern and draping to shine. The traces of cream and beige tie in with the bag, and combining the two gives you a relatively safe way to mix prints without looking like a crazy person. Buy through ShopBop for $320.

Vince Oversized Pocket Sweater – In a temperate climate or during the part of winter before it’s gotten truly cold up north, a sweater like this is absolutely key. It can go with boyfriend jeans and casual shoes or be sexed up a bit with silk and leggings, and the charcoal grey color gives the knit a bit more dimension and versatility than black would. Buy through ShopBop for $345.

Plush Liquid Faux Leather Leggings – I’m not much of a fan of fake leather in general, but in some situations, it just makes sense. Leather leggings cost hundreds of dollars and don’t have much season-to-season staying power, and this faux version is priced perfectly and isn’t too shiny to be worn during the day with a casual outfit as an interesting, textured alternative to basic black leggings. Buy through ShopBop for $70.

Elizabeth and James Coli Suede Flats – Winter is all about mixing textures, and choosing suede flats for daytime is just another way to do it. The medium grey color pulls from the greys in both the bag and shirt, and it provides some softness at the end of the leather leggings. Buy through ShopBop for $285.

Dannijo Coco Ring – For an ensemble with this many textures, jewelry can be kept to a piece or two. When wearing sweaters, I stay away from bracelets because of snagging, and earrings would compete with the huge collar. A statement ring is therefore the perfect option, and this one adds just the right amount of shine while still keeping with the mood of the clothes. Buy through ShopBop for $216.

Nighttime – Feminine

Foley + Corinna Asymmetrical Party Dress – Nude and cream tones dotted the runways for the past two seasons, and this frilly dress gives a girly look to a trend that can become boring quickly. I’d be a bit afraid to crush the frills if I sat for too long, but this is the ideal dress for standing at a bar or dancing at a club while still looking flirty and pretty. Buy through ShopBop for $390.

Anna Sui Faux Fur Cropped Jacket – Fur is noticeably huge for fall, and the always-reliable Anna Sui has created the perfect (faux!) night-out topper. It’s cropped to show off as much of your dress as possible, and the plush, glossy black fur will keep you warm and dressy-looking simultaneously. To go tough instead of glam, layer a cropped, draped leather jacket over your party frock instead of fur. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $350.

Jeffrey Campbell Clara Mesh Platform Pumps – These shoes ride the fence between pump and booty admirably, and the black suede with mesh insets will mirror the dress well once a foot is inside. The design anchors a floaty ensemble without being too heavy, and they would be a versatile nighttime option to have in your closet in case of random fabulous parties. Buy through ShopBop for $136.

Rachel Leigh Zelda Cluster Drop Earrings – Nothing accents an asymmetrical neckline like a pair of good dangly earrings, and since most necklaces don’t work with this type of dress, go for big and sparkly. This pair provides a little color variation for a very neutral outfit. Buy through ShopBop for $188.

Original post by Amanda Mull

I am not a backpack person. I never really was. When it came to school, I was a messenger bag kind of girl. But right now I am all about the backpack and of course that is because of designer extraordinaire Alexander Wang. Alexander Wang is the designer for me, so much so that if I was told I could only buy from one designer right now I would live very happily with my choice.

The typical schoolbag has been made super cool in the Alexander Wang Sydney Backpack. In fact, it has been made so cool that I feel like enrolling in a class just to buy this bag. Of course you don’t need to be in school to carry a backpack, but I just about love this bag so much that I would consider going back to school for a new backpack. See, I find ways to get around my bag ban right now!

Goodbye boring and typical, hello downtown cool. The Sydney Backpack comes in two versions, black velvet and pinstriped. I am all about the pinstriped fabric. I want to put this bag on and walk around like I have somewhere to go with it. Hello back-to-school cool. The buttoned strap closures at the front flap are very Alexander Wang. Then there is an extra-long drawstring at the top (it’s the part of the bag that looks kind of like a scarf hanging from the bag). I know this bag is not for everyone, and typically it is not for me, but every part of my body wants this bag. Dimensions are 20″H x 12″L x 9″D. Buy via ShopBop for $775.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Chanel (and more recently, Marc Jacobs) has made an empire out of diamond quilting, but even for the most ardent fan of the Classic Flap bags, it can get a little repetitive. Still, quilting is one of the best and most versatile ways to add texture and detail to a handbag, and it shouldn’t be discounted just because so many others have done it in the past.

Alexander Wang has the right idea about how to make quilting unique with the Alexander Wang Isis Frame Clutch. The classic motif reminds me a bit of what another famous Alexander (McQueen) has done for Fall, but Wang keeps the colors dark and the details industrial in order to tie the look back into his brand’s style.

The results of Wang’s foray into quilted texture are great, if a bit expensive for his bags’ usual prices. The clutch is big enough to serve as a suitable shoulder bag with the included chain strap or go without as a hand-held, and either way would be great. The more ways a woman can work a textural, visually intriguing bag like this into her wardrobe, the better. Buy through ShopBop for $1050.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Dear Alexander Wang,

I apologize. While I did say that the color of your new mustard bags on ShopBop may not represent your bags well, I did not realize how off the color could be. A reader kindly pointed us in the direction of your website and if the mustard hue you used on your bags looks like it does on your website, then job well-done.

Sincerely, A website full of fans!

It is shocking what a difference lighting can make. I know this from buying items and being surprised and from having Vlad photographing bags often. Getting the color right is an art, and it is art not easy to perfect. But it is so integral to online shopping and browsing. Earlier today I was totally turned off by the new color Alexander Wang released and this afternoon I am digging it. The Alexander Wang mustard color is more of a Dijon, pairing deep yellow and brown. Shop via Alexander Wang online.

What do you think of the color now that you see it differently?

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

If it didn’t look absolutely ridiculous, I would have titled this thread, “Alexander Wang welcomes a new color that is similar to a color you welcome when changing the diaper of a new baby”. Let me preface this by saying that I actually love hues of yellow and even a mustard color when done right. But mustard is really really tricky to perfect, and if you are one hue too dark it starts to look like… well, you know what I mean.

There needs to be a big neon sign that lets you all know that I have not seen this color in person. Stars, red lights, flashes, I have not. And it could very well be the case that when I saw this color in person, I would realize it is the perfect mustard hue. So I don’t mean to knock it, I’m just rather hesitant and iffy with the color.

Alexander Wang welcomed the color Mustard in two of his iconic bags and one newer design: the Rocco Duffel, the Diego Bucket Bag, and the Darcy Slouchy Hobo.

What do you think of the new color? Shop Alexander Wang Bags at ShopBop.

*Great minds think alike, Amanda covered this color as well on PurseBlog Savvy*

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Alexander Wang is sticking with the bags that are working for him for his fall 2010 line. While there may be some new additions, the classics from Alexander Wang will remain staples. These include the Rocco, Brenda, and Diego.

For Fall 2010, expect more of the same in different colors and materials. Lately I have been digging the Diego Bucket Bag for its long strap and sack shaped body. Shop Alexander Wang at ShopBop.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

I’m speaking for all of us here at PurseBlog when I say that we are all thrilled that new Alexander Wang handbags are available. While new handbags seem to pop up all the time at some of our favorite retail stores, there are some days where I feel like I’ve already seen everything. I guess that’s what I get for basically scouring the internet for the best (and sometimes worst) handbags available. So, needless to say, I welcome these new Alexander Wang bags with open arms.

The thing about Alexander Wang handbags is that they are unique – very unique. Yes, you need to have a bit of an open mind to fully appreciate these bags, but when you are able to open your mind, you might find yourself lusting after a bag that makes quite a statement.

In fact, this Alexander Wang Willow Top-Frame Messenger is just what I am talking about. I’ve always envisioned a messenger bag to have a particular shape and style. Sure, there are slight variations, but all in all, you know what I am saying. However, this messenger is quite different. First of all, it seems to be taller than it is wide. Not what you would normally expect, right? The black pebble leather bag is opened with a hinged metal frame and is closed and secured with a leather-and-loop strap. There is a single top handle (2″ drop) as well as detachable leather and chain shoulder strap (20½” drop). This is the kind of bag that will bring an entire new look and feel to almost any outfit. I appreciate the direction Mr. Wang has gone with this bag, do you? Buy through Saks for $925.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Against perhaps my better judgment, I really like the Alexander Wang Jena Laser-Cut Leather Clutch. And I mean, I like, REALLY like it. The shape is a bit odd and I typically stay away from oddly shaped bags. Don’t ask me why, it’s just what I do. Yet, this clutch, this adorable, edgy and versatile clutch has captured my attention and I’ve not been able to get out of its hold since.

The envelope clutch is brown laser-cut ridged leather. While I’ve been a fan of envelope clutches for a while now, this one is unique and stands out in comparison to others. I always give points to uniqueness. As you can see, there is two silver-tone zip fastenings at the front, a fold-over flap with a magnetic and zip fastening under the flap. I think the thing I like the most about this clutch is that it can be paired with a casual outfit just as well as slightly more fancy outfit. And there’s always something appealing about a handbag that you most likely won’t see the person next to you carrying. But, what do you think – what are the pros/cons to this clutch? Buy through Net-a-Porter for $525.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Lately, I have been adoring all things Alexander Wang. You see, when Alexander Wang sent his Spring 2010 collection down the runway, I fell in love. The design aesthetic paired sportswear with preppy cool. And while the collection was far too tomboy for many, I found so many elements that I loved.

My Want It Wednesday this week is much more attainable (well not the entire collage). Here is the better thing, half the items above are marked down. I bought two of them: the Jersey Dress with Slinky Combo and the Brady Clutch. The amount of you that truly disliked this clutch was quite high compared to those that like it, but I loved it then and love it now. I am a major college football fan. And while a football clutch seems cliche, I think it is the coolest thing ever. I will wear it proud next year!

The entire Alexander Wang Spring collection is the epitome of downtown cool. I want to buy the entire collection, live in it, and wear it around the hip areas of NYC. If you are digging the Alexander Wang collection shop it now at ShopBop.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

I know what you are all thinking: “Megs, you already bought this bag, didn’t like it, and returned it”. You will be right in thinking that. Call me crazy but this exact Alexander Wang Rocco Bag has been haunting me since the day I wanted it, the day I got it, and the day I returned it. It still is not the bag for me, but if you don’t mind the weight and the lack of shape of the bag, you may need to buy this Rocco before it sells out. Part of the Net-A-Porter end of season sale, the Alexander Wang Rocco with wavy stitch detailing is marked 30% down.

Alexander Wang hit big with his Rocco line of handbags and this was my favorite version I ever saw. It has a sporty feel while still retaining the allure of the original. Like I said earlier and in my original review, the lack of shape combined with the weight was not for me. But when I saw this bag hit the sale, I almost got this weird yearning. Alexander Wang, you have found a way to make a bag truly haunt me (and that is hard to do). So if you love the Rocco, this is a great version which is now marked down from $875 to $612 at NAP.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil