Custom Design

This past Sunday, I attended the Moncler Grenoble FW 2010 presentation, and being a bag person, I was immediately drawn towards the use of fanny packs. Let’s just say it was rather extensive. Models stood motionless on four levels of scaffolding spotlights shone on different groups of them to the tune of classical and opera music. I daresay it was all very dramatic and lovely, since I’m a personal fan of Moncler, but I couldn’t help but wonder about the fanny packs. They were rather large and round, and I couldn’t help but wonder if the models had little heaters tucked inside them. Not that they would need heaters if there’s anything Moncler is known for, it’s the warmth that their signature shiny puffers provide.

There’s no denying the chic of Moncler. Carine Roitfeld was at the presentation, looking every bit her insanely glamorous self; if that doesn’t indicate a serious spike in chicness, then I don’t know what does. You may remember the Fendi & Moncler Spy Handbag, that wonderfully bulbous incarnation of the coveted Spy. Is that any indication of the possible success of these fanny packs?

    

Though I loved the Moncler Spy and adore my own Moncler coat, I just can’t fathom the fanny pack being put to practical use in “a city atmosphere,” as Moncler Grenoble claims to be. Maybe it’s cute to hit the slopes, but the streets? Not so much. Perhaps I’m being a bit closed-minded, but the packs are just to big and too round to be taken seriously while firmly attached to someone’s waist. Keep in mind that this is coming from a girl who seriously considered purchasing a pair of Moncler booties. A Moncler belt with a small pouch I’d love. I’d rave after a Moncler crossbody, or even a ridiculously puffy tote. But I’m afraid I’m not a fan of the fanny.

Check out the full range of Moncler coats, shoes, and bags at Moncler.it

Original post by Anna Cooperberg Gonzalez

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. I am a fan of the day of romance, in spite of the overblown commercialism. A true romantic at heart I adore all things pink, girly, and sweet – but all in good taste of course. And even better if there is an edge to the sweetness! Can you say Lanvin? Well I’ve scouted out some heart inspired handbags and accessories to get in the mood for Valentine’s Day. I’d much rather receive a handbag than perfume or candy, wouldn’t you?

Tory Burch Nylon Ella tote, (top left, $195 at Net-a-Porter) is perfect for weekend getaways or even as a gym tote. It is made of nylon which makes it light and travel friendly. Embellished with a turquoise and plum leopard-print heart appliqué on the front, this over-sized tote features two patent top handles and base corners. Inside you’ll find two zipped pockets and a stone canvas lining.

The petite and sweet Mulberry Heart Zip Purse (top right, $125 at Mulberry) makes a noteworthy gift for your sister or BFF. It is lined with a grosgrain fabric. From Marc by Marc Jacobs is a nylon printed heart tote, (middle right,$150 at Shopbop). The multicolored ditzy print shopper tote folds into a compact pocket inside the applique heart.

From Burberry a patent leather heart keyring (bottom, $85 at Net-a-Porter). The keyring has pewter-tone hardware and a heart charm. It would make a perfectly charm-ing Valentine’s for a loved one as well.

Another heart-inspired design from Marc by Marc Jacobs is the ‘Party Girl’ Heart Appliqué Clutch, (bottom left, $248 at Nordstrom). A scattering of fringe-edge hearts add a whimsical touch to a satiny clutch handbag embellished with MJ embossed studs. Any picks of these would make a special Valentine’s gift indeed.

What is on your wishlist for Valentine’s Day?

via The Find

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. I am a fan of the day of romance, in spite of the overblown commercialism. A true romantic at heart I adore all things pink, girly, and sweet – but all in good taste of course. And even better if there is an edge to the sweetness! Can you say Lanvin? Well I’ve scouted out some heart inspired handbags and accessories to get in the mood for Valentine’s Day. I’d much rather receive a handbag than perfume or candy, wouldn’t you?

Tory Burch Nylon Ella tote, (top left, $195 at Net-a-Porter) is perfect for weekend getaways or even as a gym tote. It is made of nylon which makes it light and travel friendly. Embellished with a turquoise and plum leopard-print heart appliqué on the front, this over-sized tote features two patent top handles and base corners. Inside you’ll find two zipped pockets and a stone canvas lining.

The petite and sweet Mulberry Heart Zip Purse (top right, $125 at Mulberry) makes a noteworthy gift for your sister or BFF. It is lined with a grosgrain fabric. From Marc by Marc Jacobs is a nylon printed heart tote, (middle right,$150 at Shopbop). The multicolored ditzy print shopper tote folds into a compact pocket inside the applique heart.

From Burberry a patent leather heart keyring (bottom, $85 at Net-a-Porter). The keyring has pewter-tone hardware and a heart charm. It would make a perfectly charm-ing Valentine’s for a loved one as well.

Another heart-inspired design from Marc by Marc Jacobs is the ‘Party Girl’ Heart Appliqué Clutch, (bottom left, $248 at Nordstrom). A scattering of fringe-edge hearts add a whimsical touch to a satiny clutch handbag embellished with MJ embossed studs. Any picks of these would make a special Valentine’s gift indeed.

What is on your wishlist for Valentine’s Day?

via The Find

Original post by Guest Blogger

Add this to the list of Things I Didn’t Know Science Cared About, I suppose.

According to UK retailer Debenhams, the weight of the average woman’s handbag, including its contents, has fallen from 7.69 pounds in 2007 to 3.31 pounds in 2009. I don’t know about anyone else, but my shoulders and back are certainly thankful for the dramatic change.

Everyone knows that no trend lasts forever, so when tiny actresses were seen with handbags bigger than some New York studio apartments in the middle of the last decade, we all knew that it was a matter of time until the Olsen look was so five minutes ago. Well, if handbag weight is any indication, that time is now. But are there possible explanations other than just the normal ebb and flow of fashion trends?

UK rag Daily Mail thinks that there might be. They want to tie all of this into our gadgets – iPhones weigh less than the combination of an old school iPod and that Motorola flip phone that you had back in 2007, so I suppose that you might save a few ounces there, but I’m just not buying it as an overall explanation. It’s not like we were all carrying enormous Zack Morris phones back in ‘07, it was only two years ago.

And not only are traditional phones still more popular than smartphones, despite the fact that it seems like everyone you know has a Blackberry or iPhone, but the rest of the stuff that a woman usually carries is pretty static. As far as I know, no one has figured out a digital makeup app yet. Apple, get on that. The article also mentions laptops, but I don’t know many women that carry a computer in their everyday bag. And even if they did, I would imagine that any decrease in average laptop size between 2007 and 2009 would be offset by the likely increased number of women that now carry these ever lighter, slimmer devices that didn’t carry them at all two years ago.

So, as they say on one of my favorite shows, myth: busted. I’m not buying the explanation that the Daily Mail is selling. There’s an important one that they may have overlooked, however, and that’s the weight of the materials used. Maybe, just maybe, the manufacturers are listening to the practical complaints of their customers. That’s not common in fashion, but it might have happened with our handbags.

Yesterday, I walked into Neiman Marcus in Atlanta, picked up a Chloe hobo and for the first time, didn’t feel myself begin to tip over under the sheer weight of the empty bag. The size itself was still big – maybe even “oversized” would be the correct word – but it wasn’t heavy. It wasn’t even close. And when we live in a world where we can’t count on CHLOE, of all brands, to put out bags that are all so heavy that they make my arms fall asleep, what can we count on?

Handbag weight is one of the most common complaints that I hear from bag lovers, even to the point where some designers have changed their materials in very obvious ways. For instance, the first few iterations of the famous Marc Jacobs Stam were lined in suede. People complained, and every season since then has had a cotton or linen lining. When I pick up a Stam in a store now, it’s noticeably lighter than the early version that I bought back in 2006.

Those things considered, it’s likely that a combination of size trends, material changes and maybe a few technological advances have lead to such a precipitous drop in bag weight. Whatever it is, it’s better for bag lovers, any way you slice it.

Article via The Daily Mail

Original post by Amanda Mull

The trend toward chain link totes seems like an obvious choice this season. Although totes are somewhat on the practical side of the handbag spectrum, the addition of chains to ordinary totes makes them into something special. These totes featured are far from your generic 9-to-5 envelope tote and are just as adept at toting around loads of stuff during your busy weekdays. Or they would also serve a practical purpose on weekend getaways.

Chain straps do add a few extra ounces of weight to a handbag, so they are not for everyone. I know that when I overpack a tote I feel the strain on my shoulders at the end of the day. If you are looking for just a touch of chain link on your bag for added glam then there are also styles such as the Burberry Barbed wire that feature just a touch of chain as an accent.

Stella McCartney’s Falabella Tote (upper left, $1,145.00 at Neiman Marcus) is surrounded on four corners with chains that merge at the top into a set of double straps. I do think the price is a bit outrageous for black coated cotton. This bag is also a bit floppy and sloppy and I’m no so keen on this style.

From Dior is the Le 30 Medium Tote (upper right, $2600 at Saks) which is made of a handstitched cannage lambskin leather and accented with silvertone hardware and double chain-link shoulder straps. A Dior logo tag is attached and inside you’ll find one zippered and two open pockets. The Dior chain link tote chain straps are secured by a leather strap which offsets the chain digging into your shoulder.

If you are a Burberry fan but are looking for an edge, the Burberry Barbed Wire Check Tote (bottom right, $1695 at Neiman Marcus) is for you. If you look closely you’ll find barbed wire (yes barbed wire!) accenting this otherwise ordinary Burberry signature plaid top handled tote.

Be&D gets its links on with the Ludlow Studded Leather Tote (bottom left, $795.00 at Bloomingdales). This studded leather and obviously moto trend inspired tote has a detachable chainlink strap to lend a glam-rock edge. Wear it as either a shoulder bag or carry it as a top handled tote. Inside you’ll find interior zip, cell phone and additional pockets and key ring enclosed by a top magnetic closure to keep your essentials organized.

via The Find

Original post by Guest Blogger

The trend toward chain link totes seems like an obvious choice this season. Although totes are somewhat on the practical side of the handbag spectrum, the addition of chains to ordinary totes makes them into something special. These totes featured are far from your generic 9-to-5 envelope tote and are just as adept at toting around loads of stuff during your busy weekdays. Or they would also serve a practical purpose on weekend getaways.

Chain straps do add a few extra ounces of weight to a handbag, so they are not for everyone. I know that when I overpack a tote I feel the strain on my shoulders at the end of the day. If you are looking for just a touch of chain link on your bag for added glam then there are also styles such as the Burberry Barbed wire that feature just a touch of chain as an accent.

Stella McCartney’s Falabella Tote (upper left, $1,145.00 at Neiman Marcus) is surrounded on four corners with chains that merge at the top into a set of double straps. I do think the price is a bit outrageous for black coated cotton. This bag is also a bit floppy and sloppy and I’m no so keen on this style.

From Dior is the Le 30 Medium Tote (upper right, $2600 at Saks) which is made of a handstitched cannage lambskin leather and accented with silvertone hardware and double chain-link shoulder straps. A Dior logo tag is attached and inside you’ll find one zippered and two open pockets. The Dior chain link tote chain straps are secured by a leather strap which offsets the chain digging into your shoulder.

If you are a Burberry fan but are looking for an edge, the Burberry Barbed Wire Check Tote (bottom right, $1695 at Neiman Marcus) is for you. If you look closely you’ll find barbed wire (yes barbed wire!) accenting this otherwise ordinary Burberry signature plaid top handled tote.

Be&D gets its links on with the Ludlow Studded Leather Tote (bottom left, $795.00 at Bloomingdales). This studded leather and obviously moto trend inspired tote has a detachable chainlink strap to lend a glam-rock edge. Wear it as either a shoulder bag or carry it as a top handled tote. Inside you’ll find interior zip, cell phone and additional pockets and key ring enclosed by a top magnetic closure to keep your essentials organized.

via The Find

Original post by Guest Blogger

In the interest of full disclosure, it’s important for you all to know that I’m an unapologetic Balenciaga fangirl. I can’t be unbiased on the brand’s classic Motorcycle Bags because I love them too much – I’ve owned four myself, in three different shapes, which puts the brand at the top of my all-time ownership list (I like to spread the money around, usually).

As such, I feel as though I must vociferously make the case for the brand at any chance I get, and for anyone that has been considering one of Balenciaga’s bags as a future purchase, I have but one piece of advice: take the plunge. And also, I have a few reasons why…

5. The colors! The colors! We’re talking about Balenciaga, after all. They make everything from blacks, browns, and beiges to the brightest (and best) brights in the business. Jewel tones, neons, anything you want. They’ve made it all, and they give us a half dozen or so new colors twice a year, every year. Sometimes they’re throwbacks to past favorites that are no longer available, but usually they’re a fresh crop of hues to build new outfits around. Everyone has their favorite – mine’s 2007 Violet.

4. A shape for everyone and everyone in their shape Balenciaga makes their classic motorcycle bag in almost as many sizes and shapes as they do colors. From coin purses to clutches to overnight bags, no matter what you need to carry and how you prefer to carry it, there’s something for you. Hobos and satchels make up most of the line, but even then, there are a variety of sizes to pick from.

3. Light as a feather, but not stiff as a board Even in the iterations that have giant hardware, Balenciaga bags are still the lightest that I’ve ever carried. The leather is cut thin instead of the clunky, thick material that many brands prefer, and it makes them easier to carry for long periods of time than most other bags. Even with the thin leather, I’ve never had a ripping or durability problem, and I carry my bags to death and do them no favors. For my purposes, they’re the perfect combination.

2. Even when they’re girly, they’re still edgy Balenciaga is the only brand that has legitimately forced me to contemplate spending money on a bag that’s neon green or bubblegum pink (and I hate pink), and that’s because that in any color, they still manage to look modern and a bit tough. But not too tough! They’re not entirely covered in studs or buckles, just a few, and it’s just enough to balance out any color choice (or to make something like black even better).

1. Not everyone owns one, and they never will I’ve heard people say that the motorcycle bags are played out, or that everyone has one, or whatever. It’s simply not true. The brand is harder to find both online and in stores than almost all of the other major brands that we cover, and the much-sought-after colors are made in relatively low numbers. Past favorites sell for over (sometimes well over) retail on eBay, and unless you live in one of the world’s most fashionable cities, it’s likely that you almost never come across another woman carrying one. I’d wager that the percentage of Americans that are even aware of their existence doesn’t come close to double digits. When you compare that to signature looks from other brands, they’re still relatively exclusive bags.

Still unconvinced? Fair enough, but maybe one day you’ll see that magic color that you feel like Balenciaga chose just for you, and things will all become clear. Trust me.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Welcome to the new year and new decade. Thanks to all of our loyal readers and members, 2009 was a great year for PurseBlog and PurseForum. For 2010 we have many more big things planned and truly look forward to sharing with you over the next twelve months!

We want to ask you: What handbag designers do you want to see us cover more in 2010? If there are specific bags, stories, or designers you want to see featured on PurseBlog, let us know in the comments below and we promise to pay close attention to your requests.

Looking forward to sharing 2010 with you all!

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

When it comes to Christmas I typically have a few things I’d love to have, but I rarely consider myself one to have a wish list. However, this year, there are a few things that I would absolutely love to have. So, whether any of these things are given to me or I end up getting them for myself, I am pretty sure I am going to make everything on my list mine!

1. Christian Louboutin Hyper Prive 120 Pumps: I have been dying to get a pair of Louboutins for a few years now. Since I need to start my collection, I want a pair like these: classic, timeless, and sexy! Buy through Net-a-Porter for $835.

2. Apple iPod nano: Every morning, before I start my day, I go for a run or a walk. I’ve had several iPods before, but it is totally time for an upgrade. In fact, I don’t just need an upgrade, I need an iPod. I lost the last one I had and now I run without one. Furthermore, a cool new iPod would be great for traveling. Buy through Apple for $149.

3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Classic Q Shoulder Bag: Earlier this month I was checking out my handbag collection and saw a few areas I would like to beef up a bit. I need a bit more color in my collection and I want something that is as versatile and durable. I can always count on Marc Jacobs and that is why I would love to call this bag mine. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $330.

4. J. Crew Cashmere Ribbed Shawl Popover: It doesn’t matter what kind of climate I live in, I love sweaters and I can find a use for them throughout the year. I love this J. Crew Cashmere sweater. Why? Well, hello, it is cashmere. Yet, more than that, pink is a color I like to add to my wardrobe. It is the kind of color that can soften an outfit or add just the right touch of color. Buy through J. Crew for $218.

5. Ohio State T-Shirt: Like Megs and Vlad, I too went to Ohio State. And for any of you who are die hard devotees to your Alma Mater you know that you can never have too many items that broadcast your school. In case there are other fellow Buckeyes out there, you can get this t-shirt through Buckeye Corner for $29.95.

6. Dior Limited Edition Vernis – Black Sequins: I am all about the dark nail polish craze right now. With New Year’s Even quickly approaching, I would totally paint my nails with this limited edition black nail polish. Well, not just black, it actually has sparkle in it. Obviously you can’t go wrong! Buy through Sephora for $20.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU ALL!!!!

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

When it comes to Christmas I typically have a few things I’d love to have, but I rarely consider myself one to have a wish list. However, this year, there are a few things that I would absolutely love to have. So, whether any of these things are given to me or I end up getting them for myself, I am pretty sure I am going to make everything on my list mine!

1. Christian Louboutin Hyper Prive 120 Pumps: I have been dying to get a pair of Louboutins for a few years now. Since I need to start my collection, I want a pair like these: classic, timeless, and sexy! Buy through Net-a-Porter for $835.

2. Apple iPod nano: Every morning, before I start my day, I go for a run or a walk. I’ve had several iPods before, but it is totally time for an upgrade. In fact, I don’t just need an upgrade, I need an iPod. I lost the last one I had and now I run without one. Furthermore, a cool new iPod would be great for traveling. Buy through Apple for $149.

3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Classic Q Shoulder Bag: Earlier this month I was checking out my handbag collection and saw a few areas I would like to beef up a bit. I need a bit more color in my collection and I want something that is as versatile and durable. I can always count on Marc Jacobs and that is why I would love to call this bag mine. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $330.

4. J. Crew Cashmere Ribbed Shawl Popover: It doesn’t matter what kind of climate I live in, I love sweaters and I can find a use for them throughout the year. I love this J. Crew Cashmere sweater. Why? Well, hello, it is cashmere. Yet, more than that, pink is a color I like to add to my wardrobe. It is the kind of color that can soften an outfit or add just the right touch of color. Buy through J. Crew for $218.

5. Ohio State T-Shirt: Like Megs and Vlad, I too went to Ohio State. And for any of you who are die hard devotees to your Alma Mater you know that you can never have too many items that broadcast your school. In case there are other fellow Buckeyes out there, you can get this t-shirt through Buckeye Corner for $29.95.

6. Dior Limited Edition Vernis – Black Sequins: I am all about the dark nail polish craze right now. With New Year’s Even quickly approaching, I would totally paint my nails with this limited edition black nail polish. Well, not just black, it actually has sparkle in it. Obviously you can’t go wrong! Buy through Sephora for $20.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU ALL!!!!

Original post by Shannon Mahoney