Custom Design

It’s funny how six months to get used to the idea of a handbag changes things. When I first saw the fringed bags in the Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 runway show, I was a little unsure. Given more time acquaint myself with the design, however, I sort of love the bags. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve merely become resigned to their existence or because I have actual affection for them, but I’m going to go with the latter.

The most prototypical example of this collection is the Marc Jacobs Boho Woven Hobo, and I think it’s also the strongest. I think I may have been correct when I predicted in my initial review of the bags that the fringe would be somewhat shortened for retail, and that allows the bag’s illusion of basketry to take center stage without the hanging leather creating too much of a distraction.

For me, this bag’s ability to create a luxurious leather version of a straw tote holds almost all of its draw. Straw bags from major designers can get obnoxiously expensive, and I’d rather pay a little more for a woven leather version any day of the week. The color variation in the two layers of leather is perfect – subtle enough to keep a somewhat natural color profile, but still different enough to make you want to figure out how the bag was constructed.

Then there’s the subject of the fringe. It’s the one aspect of the bag that many people complained about, but viewed in the context of impending warm weather, it looks appropriate and fun instead of somewhat silly, as it did during the September runway show (maybe, just a little bit). I’d prefer it if the bag’s strap was leather instead of nylon webbing, but it will undoubtedly feel pretty comfortable on the shoulder. So, who’s going to be the first to pick up one of these? Buy through Bergdorf Goodman for $1795.

Original post by Amanda Mull

I am really happy to see Bloomingdale’s expand their online handbag inventory. It’s something they’ve been working on and now that their inventory keeps growing we are seeing more and more great bags. And not just any handbags, but designer and highly coveted designer brands – like Marc Jacobs. So, on this dreary South Florida Friday it’s nice to look at a bag with just a hint of color and pizazz.

You know as well as I do that certain Marc Jacobs bags are completely over the top but still really nice. Then there are others that seem a bit bland and boring. Then there are others, like this Marc Jacobs The Firebird Rio Studded Leather Satchel that combine the previously mentioned elements perfectly.

The taupe leather satchel has a hint of shine and shimmer to it which really complements the studs wonderfully. While so many people are over studs, when the design and layout of the studs are different, like that on this bag, it’s hard not to give the bag a chance. The double handles (6″ drop) are adorned with gold-tone hardware which also looks really nice with the studding. Personally, I’d let the shoulder strap hang off of the bag and carry the bag primarily with the double handles. All in all this is a nice bag from Marc Jacobs with just enough sparkle to catch my eye. Buy through Bloomingdale’s for $1395.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

I’ll be blunt: Marc Jacobs is New York Fashion Week. It’s the show that everyone wants to go to and no one can stop talking about, and it may have produced more activity from the people I follow on Twitter than the Super Bowl. In a way, I suppose, it’s sort of the same thing, just for a vastly different group of people.

Marc had another right-on-time start this year, causing latecomer and heavyweight André Leon Talley to stand (the horror) to watch the show. And what a show it was – the reaction so far has been practically rhapsodic – fashion editors everywhere are panting and drooling like mere commoners! And why wouldn’t they be? It’s Marc Freakin’ Jacobs.

This collection may not have been particularly “innovative,” but it’s just like Jacobs to decide that innovation is passé and that he’ll do what he pleases, regardless of the buzzwords overtaking the rest of fashion. There were retro references to his own classics like the grunge collection for Perry Ellis and various other items from fashion gone by, like Peter Pan collars, classic trench coats and long casual skirts.

The entire collection was rendered in a palette of subdued neutrals, featuring heavily shades of beige and grey. To remind us all that this was still extremely expensive clothing, there were plenty of lush materials like sequins, fur and velvet (which seems to be the fabric of the week). I’m not salivating quite as hungrily over the collection as many of my compatriots, but it’s hard to look at these clothes and not acknowledge that Marc Jacobs is an utterly masterful designer and creative thinker. Ok, I lied. I’m totally salivating, in particular over all the sparkly gunmetal pieces. I bet I didn’t have anyone fooled for a second.

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Photos via Style.com.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Yesterday, I covered the Marc by Marc Jacobs Royale Patchwork Birdie Hobo which was nothing but a disappointment. When I see anything with that involves Marc Jacobs, I tend to expect a lot. There are certain designers out there who have raised the bar rather high for themselves. Marc Jacobs is one of these designers. So, while yesterday I was disappointed, today, Marc Jacobs has made up for the mishap.

Using a word like “classic” in the name of a handbag would have to make almost any reader believe the handbag would have to fit into that category. The mastermind behind this bag knew exactly how to create a classic bag.

I am completely enjoying every aspect to the Marc Jacobs Classic Carla Leather Tote. First of all, the leather is just fabulous. But, beyond the leather, the shape and style of the bag is, in fact, classic. The double handles have a 4″ drop while the adjustable shoulder strap has an 11.5″ drop. Either way you decide to carry the bag, it will be comfortable.

Open the top-zip closure and you will see an interior zip pocket. Yet, before you even open the bag, you will see front flap-pockets with pushlock closures. These pushlock closures offer a bit of edge, yet not too much at all. And of course, the gold-tone hardware looks fabulous against the leather. I love how this bag can go from day to night without much of a transition. Plus, this bag can be carried by a wide range of ages without looking too old or too young for the woman carrying the bag. Buy through Bloomingdale’s for $995.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Valentine’s Day has always been one of those days I’ve loved. While I’ve not always had a significant other on Valentine’s Day, it is nice to sit back and remember how much love I have in my life. I have a great family, amazing friends and am constantly surrounded by love. So whether you have a Valentine this year or not, try and remember how loved you are and how many people you love!

With all of this being said, I still have a list of things I’d be more than happy to receive on Valentine’s Day. Nothing too extravagant but nonetheless lovely.

1. Two Dozen Long Stem Red Roses: I know red roses on Valentine’s Day sound rather cliche, but that doesn’t bother me at all. I love roses. I love how they look, how they smell and how they open up each day a bit more. I tend to believe that flowers can cheer up any room and I would love to come home this Valentine’s Day to gorgeous red roses. Buy through 1800Flowers.com for $139.

2. A homemade dinner: I wouldn’t necessarily turn down a night out on Valentine’s Day, but I absolutely love spending Valentine’s Day at home. It is so great to have your man cook you dinner or even cook dinner together. If I could choose the meal, I’d totally be up for Chicken Marsala or Lasagna this Valentine’s Day. Of course, a nice side salad and some wine would be the best way to round out the meal.

3. Marc Jacobs Kate Lock Hobo: I’ve been thinking about this bag for quite some time now. No, it doesn’t scream Valentine’s Day, but I like that this is the kind of bag that I can carry all year long. Megs, covered this bag a little while back (click here for her review) and I’ve been drooling over it from that point forward. Sure, a little pricey for a Valentine’s Day gift, but you never know, right! Buy through Bergdorf Goodman for $950.

4. J. Crew Deco Necklace: Since the Marc Jacobs bag might be too much, I’ve also found a great necklace from J. Crew that would be fabulous. I love this necklace because it is fun and flirty yet elegant and sophisticated. It would be a great option for dressing up or dressing down an outfit. Buy through J. Crew for $128.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Along with his continual throwback to the’60s this spring, Marc by Marc Jacobs again channels color blocking in a clever combination of hues. The “R Special Color block” collection palette reminds me of the circa 1962 Eero Saarinen designed terminal at JFK. Or at least the colors of the very chic flight attendants of that era. Very retro, in a sophisticated kind of way. It may not be for everyone, but the graphic sensibility of a color blocked handbag really appeals to me. Definitely pair these bags for a casual downtown look. Think distressed boyfriend jeans and a cozy slouchy cashmere cardigan sweater. This summer wear it with flowy puffy sleeved a-line mini dresses and gladiator sandals. I am looking forward to NYFW in February to see what MJ has up his sleeve for us in Fall 2010!

Here are three bags from the Marc by Marc Jacobs R Special Colorblock group. First the roomy
Marc by Marc Jacobs R Special Colorblock tote (top, $478 at Endless.com). The simple shopper tote’s angular design touts supple like buttah leather on its colorblocked leather body. The Marc by Marc Jacobs R Special Derby (bottom left, $168 at Endless.com) is petite, but packs a punch with a cross body strap so that you can do the cross-body look with a strap included. Peek inside and you’ll find an M by MJ logoed lining. The sophisticated Marc by Marc Jacobs Envelope leather clutch ($180 at Net-a-Porter) has a fold-over flap and M by MJ embossed logo medallion on the front and the zipped back pocket is lined in Marc by Marc Jacobs signature logo twill.

Via The Find

Original post by Guest Blogger

Help me out folks. Would you pay $1295 for this tote? I realize it is a Marc Jacobs design, but still, I really can’t get passed this price tag. This price has me shaking my head with each stroke on my keyboard.

Alright, enough of my disbelief and onto the bag itself. This Marc Jacobs Love Bird Leather Tote is a bright and cheery tote that will add quite a bit of color to just about any outfit you might want to pair it with.

Marc Jacobs has partnered fluorescent pink, fluorescent yellow and black on this hand-painted oversized leather tote. The two black leather top handles have the slightest hints of gold-tone stud detailing. I was really impressed with the gold-tone studs down each side of this large tote. It’s not often that you see bags with this kind of detailing, so I welcomed it with open arms.

This is the kind of bag I would love to use as my carry-on during travel days. I could fit everything in it, including my laptop and still look really fashionable. I have seen enough boring black carry-on bags at airports and the colors on this bag are enough to boost the spirits of those in just about any security line. The bag is finished off with a designer-stamped padlock which is a nice addition, but it doesn’t make or break the bag. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1295.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

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.

So when I attempt to ground myself and realize that it is possible that buying a super trendy bag is not the way to go, I have to find a replacement. And I found one. I found nearly the same price in a black leather bag from Marc Jacobs. The Marc Jacobs Kate Lock Hobo has a little bit of sass with the zipper and stud detail on the sides. Like the Tweed Bag, and many bags from his spring collection, there is a signature lock detail at the front of the bag. Otherwise this is a simple hobo, with a long adjustable leather strap and slouchy body.

I dig where Marc Jacobs took his spring line. It ventures from downright crazy to slightly colorful to over-detailed to just right. There has to be a bag in there somewhere for you. Buy the Kate Lock Hobo via Bergdorf Goodman for $950.

And if you are me, for some odd absurd reason, the only bag still calling my name is the Fluorescent Tweed Bag. Tomatoes in my face? If you are like me, buy the Fluorescent Tweed Bag at Net a Porter for $995.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Not only does a new year bring a fresh start, but it reveals an interest in fresher brighter hues as we inch our way towards spring. The recent trend of colorful rainbow hue handbags feels just right, like a breath of fresh air as we say au revoir to 2009. These candy colored bags are decadent treat, satisfying the handbag lover’s craving for wit and whimsy. They also have an ulterior motive, as they will coordinate with a myriad of outfits. With at least three colors shown on each bag, there are many opportunities to mix and match with most of the items in your closet. Multi colored bags also pair perfectly with black or white for an instant dash of springtime freshness.

Kicking off the color explosion trend, Diane von Furstenberg is expert at infusing pop art inspired accents into her bags with the zest and energy that she brings to all her collections. The Diane von Furstenberg “Stephanie” Woven Leather Clutch in Sunset Metallic ($395 at Net-a-Porter) is a soft sided woven leather clutch made of multicolored metallic leather adorned with a large tassel and wristlet strap. The top closure is secured by a zipper and has a mesh lining.

The Italians love color with a sophisticated edge, and the Fendi Forever Boston Satchel ($855 at Saks) is no exception. This petite satchel is swathed in a rainbow of double F Fendi logos. The coated canvas body is topped with double handles and reveals a roomy interior. Another colorful clutch from DVF is the Hayworth ($425 at Net-a-Porter). The off-white leather clutch has multicolored patent stitching at the sides and edges. On the body is a geometric hole punched design as well as pewter tone screw hardware details. From the prince of pop culture himself, Marc Jacobs’ Fluorescent Tweed Bag ($395 at Net-a-Porter) is pure ’80’s excess. Go for the bold with this cheeky tweed paneled bag embellished with gold splashed multi-colored neon stone studs. This particular MJ bag may not be for the fashionably faint at heart. But we do know that it will be definitely turn heads with the right outfit. Pair with a primarily black outfit and some sky high wedges and you’ll be the ultimate statement maker on the streets this spring.

via The Find

Original post by Guest Blogger

I can abide a lot of weird stuff from Marc Jacobs. In fact, Marc Jacobs is usually at his best when he’s at his weirdest, even if not everyone gets it.

Sadly, though, when I saw the Marc Jacobs Beaded Daisy Shoulder Bag at Saks last week, I found myself feeling like one of those haters that I usually dismiss: I just didn’t get it. Not even close.

I will admit one thing, though, even though I don’t like the bag – it made me stop and look at it. Since I look at handbags 40 hours a week, I rarely stop and examine bags closely when I’m in a store, unless it’s something I really need to touch or something that I would actually consider buying. Other than that, this job sort of takes the magic out of going to the mall. With this bag, though, I wanted to touch the beads to see what they were made out of and if they were heavy. My best guess is that they’re ceramic, and they definitely added a bit of weight to the bag.

I wouldn’t say my interest was a positive thing, though – it was merely such an odd thing to see that I couldn’t help but investigate. If you’re looking for attention at any cost, then that might be positive, but mostly I felt like I was looking at it in the same way that I would look at a tacky holiday sweater. In fact, that’s what the hanging beads reminded me of the most – the extra, unnecessary crap hanging off a glittery, ironic-but-not-on-purpose Christmas vest. Perhaps its the contrast between the beads and the relatively boring design of the bag itself that makes them seem extra weird – I’m not sure. Buy through Saks for $1995.

Original post by Amanda Mull