I'm in love with python. Some people don't like the scaly feel of snake skin but python is just so luxurious to me, but pricey. So anytime I can get my hands on an affordable python piece, I grab it! LuxCouture has one of the best selections of luxury bags (thus the name LuxCouture!) and they have an enviable selection of python bags. This one in particular caught my eye. I was surprised to discover it actually isn't python but looks so much like it I love it anyway! The Ultra in Printed Leather is by Minority and it's a brilliant bronze-y oversized clutch with scalloped, snakeskin-like leather detailing. $725 is a price typically reserved for authentic python skin but this bag is so gorgeous it might just get a pass! And for those of you who don't like snakes, this one's for you!
Kara Ross Ring Lizard and Seafoam Ostrich Clutches
February 22, 2008
When Kara Ross first debuted her line of clutches, I have to admit, I wasn't a fan. But her Spring 2008 clutch collection caught my eye. These are some of the most gorgeous Spring clutches I've seen! The bags are made of
Ring Lizard and Seafoam Ostrich with resin and small stone details. The main part of the bag has an interesting effect with off-white on the edges and grey in the center, and the flap closure comes in multiple colors of ostrich skin. With the skins and stones, it may sound like a lot's going on with the bag but the result is absolutely stunning.
If you can't get enough of Christian Louboutin shoes, then you will definitely love his handbags! Most designers excel at either shoe design or handbag design, (usually not both), but Louboutin's handbags do not disappoint. Just as luxurious as his signature footwear, Christian Louboutin's Metallic 'Kangaroo' Bag (which is such a weird name for such a lustworthy bag!) is a black and gold treated pony hair hobo with black and gold metallic trim. The pony hair is so smooth it almost looks like lambskin! The bag is an edgy hobo shape gets with its zippered side pockets, leather-covered chain strap and middle drop, which is so practical since it fits perfectly underneath your arm. There's also a removable logo charm and simple tab snap closure. The price is steep at $2,027 but it's a great holiday splurge for the true bagaholic.
Want more? Buy Christian Louboutin at NET-A-PORTER
HAMPTONS ALLIGATOR LARGE CARRYON, $30,000
A good friend of mine is totally addicted to Coach - bags, shoes, accessories - you name it. We were perusing the website today and discovered that Coach has two new bags priced at $30,000 and $20,000. Now I'm a firm believer in buying a good quality bag and I own two leather Coach bags that have stood the test of time, but I can't imagine paying that much for a Coach. I never associated the Coach name with luxury, so it's hard to justify a purchase like that (if I even had the money to spend). When I think of overpriced bags, I first think of the Hermes Birkin, which almost might be worth the high price simply because it's a status symbol, and then think of some of the top luxury designer's bags (Prada, Fendi, Gucci, Louis Vuitton) that release limited edition bags that are highly coveted, AND lustworthy. The Coach, however, is neither. It's not bad for an alligator bag, but just not spectacular enough to justify that price. I've seen much more creative and more beautiful alligator bags from designers like Nancy Gonzalez and B. Romanek that are at most, a few thousand dollars. So I don't see the worth here. Do you?
HAMPTONS ALLIGATOR SATCHEL, $20,000
Coco Chanel once said something like "put everything on and then take one thing off."
Luxury jewelry designer Kara Ross creates elegantly beautiful pieces full of precious gems, wood, gold and diamonds. I think her jewels are the perfect pieces to accompany you on an haute night out, that is, if you can afford them. Her recently launched line of handbags however, needs to heed Coco's advice.
The Lucis Clutch is a particularly overdone bag. Three different types of animal skin make up this clutch! I mean, it is only a clutch. If it were a larger bag, maybe it would look less 'busy', but the three skins are definitely a 'crowd'. The body is constructed of leopard pony skin, trimmed in red ostrich skin, and finished off with a front pocket made of brown caiman skin. I can't imagine where or why you might carry this bag, though the upside is with all of the colors, its bound to match something in your closet.
If you're a fan of aesthetic excess, visit Kara Ross' website. Prices range from $1,600-$7,800.
Is Halle pregnant? Her big, flowy dresses seem to be suspiciously hiding a baby bump. We'll find out soon enough, but if she is preggers, she's got a great new bag to tote Baby Berry's stuff in. One of the hottest new bags for Fall 2007 is the Yves St. Laurent Patent Tribute Medium Flat Tote. This double-handle tote's quilted patent leather resembles a luxe crocodile skin, and has a top-snap closure and side zippers for additional interior access. It may not be a traditional diaper bag, but it's large, packs flat, and is chic enough for any celebrity baby's belongings!
Get Halle's haute style for $1,195 at Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue.
Photo source: YBF
I've been obsessed with handbags for as long as I can remember but I never thought an opportunity like this would come along, for me to share my handbag obsession with the world!
Bag Borrow or Steal is searching for "America's Ultimate Bagaholic" and will hold the job of Chief Bag Officer. (Am I dreaming?) If selected, you'll win a bagaholic's dream - you'll get to carry six of the hautest handbags for Fall 2007, get a year's worth of luxury handbag borrowing privileges, for free!
Here's what you need to do to enter:
• Submit a photo + up to 100 words describing why
you love handbags. Share a shot of your favorite bag,
your collections of bags, you and your bag, etc.
• Submit a video-nothing fancy is required, you can
use the video feature on a digital camera!
Entries must be submitted by September 4, 2007.
The Grand Prize winner will be announced September 18th.
Check out this sample video:
And just for entering the contest you'll get 20% off any handbag you'd like to borrow. Check out Bag Borrow or Steal for more information on this contest and to shop for haute bags!
Christian Dior bags have, in the past few years, transitioned from cute and trendy (saddle bags), to young and ubiquitous (girly bags), and now back to classic style. The new Fall collection boasts some striking pieces that reflect Dior's return to sophistication. The Dior Samourai 1947 Knot Frame Bag is simply haute, and if you can afford it, so worth the $3,600 price tag. This is the type of bag that can stop traffic, or at the very least, will make people stop and ask you where you got it.
Elaborate Japanese hair knots adorn the outside of this lambskin bag, while the knotted shoulder strap hangs from serpent detailed-hooks. A top snap closure hides an interior zip pocket and Japanese fabric lining. And because it's a limited edition (and so ridiculously expensive), you know you'll be one of the few toting this luxurious piece of arm candy.
Another addition to Dior's new sophisticated handbag line is the Jeanne Ziptop Shoulder Bag. If you dig the simplicity and lavishness and large size of the YSL Muse, you'll love this bag. Rich and smooth prune leather is trimmed with plum suede, basic brass hardware and sleek top handles. It's the bag for Fall. ($1990)
The Dior Samourai 1947 Woven Frame Bag ($3900) draws inspiration from Japanese basket weaving, with its intricate hand-woven layers throughout the body and strap. The serpent detail and hardware conjure up images of ancient samurai fighters and period art.
Dior has really stepped up its designs quite a few notches this season.
Who says black is boring? Although summer is a great time to spice up your wardrobe with lots of juicy colors, every now and then there's a black accessory that's a must-have. This clutch by Malini Murjani is one of those must-haves.
The Resin Billyette Clutch is a modern 'mod' clutch - think modern art meets 60's style. The bag is expandable, lined in leather, and is utterly cool. It's meant to be an evening bag but I think it's great for day too. It works well with a conservative look for all you corporate types (myself included), and it's chic enough to wear with jeans and a tank too. And it's a steal at $275. I love the versatility of this piece and can imagine carrying it for years. It's one of those modern vintage bags that you'll be clamoring for in a few years. Get yours now. (Also available in red, white and yellow at malinim.com).
While the celebrity favored 'Le Dix' has arguably been the most popular in the Balenciaga family, the Balenciaga Tron is the undiscovered gem. It is the ultimate in classy bags for the mature woman. In my opinion it is the more sensible and sophisticated bag with its very contemporary and sleek calf leather, front gold 'winged' clasp and swivel top handles. I simply adore this bag. And it is an absolute steal at $520! These days, designers like Botkier and Goldenbleu are charging upwards of $700 for bags in their collections so why not get a luxury brand like Balenciaga for less than that?
I have discovered the perfect super bag. Anyone who knows me knows I carry extra-large bags with excess amounts of stuff. I'm talking phone, wallet, comb, brush, lipgloss, bronzer, bills, magazines, work papers, water, gum, glasses, jewelry, lotion,...you can stop me anytime now. The point is, I carry it all. But I can't ever find what I'm looking for. Many bags boast compartmentalization but this bag really does it. The Convertible Bag by Antrobus actually has TWO DRAWERS that pop out on the side! It's like carrying your jewelry box around all day, but in a chic way. Also, the bottom of the bag zips out to become a clutch! The overall bag is absolutely gorgeous, and the fact that it has a built-in jewelry box and clutch makes it even more appealing. So you can spend over $1,000 on an 'It' bag that everyone else has, or you can spend $1,250 wisely on this super multi-bag.
Available at Vivre
Came straight to this page? Visit What's Haute for more haute bags!
Though his overall style may be questionable, his handbag is to die for. After my Gucci letdown, and my recent disappointments in Fendi, I've been checking out Louis Vuitton to fulfill some of my luxury needs.
I have wanted to buy the Monogram Canvas 'Speedy' for several years now but it seems like EVERYONE and their mother owns one, and if I'm going to pay over $600 for one, I want some sort of exclusivity. The Damier Canvas 'Speedy' is a slightly less ubiquitous LV purse, and the checkerboard pattern is a nice switch from the usual LV logos. I think it has a bit more class than the Monogram version, and is knocked off less. What do you think? Should I buy the Damier Speedy?
On another note, who in their right mind would pay $255 for a 'Speedy' key ring???
Celeb Spotting - Jennifer Lopez with a Katherine Kwei 'Stella' Tote
April 08, 2007
Who else but La Lopez could show up for jury duty looking uberly fabulous? Jennifer Lopez was spotted rockin' casual chic as only she knows how. She manages to make an extra-long cardigan, oversized sunglasses, and baggy jeans look haute, but the best part of her look of course, is the bag.
J. Lo, always a fashion trendsetter, is toting one of Katherine Kwei's luxury knotted handbags. The 'Stella' Tote (in Putty) is made of 'pricked' goat and lambskin, lined in goat suede, and has Kwei's signature eternity knots across the bottom. Available for $1600 - visit KatherineKwei.com for more details.
Burberry is one brand that, in my opinion, hasn't been completely tainted by Canal Street knockoffs. The Burberry check pattern seems to be difficult to duplicate, and I'm glad that at least one luxury brand can maintain its uniqueness. The Buckled Leather Hobo is a classy and versatile hobo. The color scheme is neutral but not boring, and the plaid print is surprisingly anti-trendy so you can carry it for years. And the price is another surprise - only $425?! You can't even purchase a mainstream designer bag for that price these days! Koobas and Botkiers are priced around $650! I'm thinking of snatching up both the black and the white trimmed bags - white for Spring/Summer, black for Fall/Winter. With its timeless beauty, I don't think Burberry will ever go out of style.
I hate matchy matchy. Have you ever seen those couples at an amusement park wearing matching tee shirts with their picture on it, or a woman walking the streets in head to toe Louis Vuitton - jacket, pants, bag, shoes, etc.? Both instances are totally tacky. But Yves St. Laurent makes matchy matchy very pretty.
Picture this - a basic black tunic top and black pants. Simple, yes, boring, maybe. But add the YSL Downtown Vichy handbag, ($1995), cinch your waist with the Vichy belt, ($555), and step out with the Vichy Holly Ballerina flat, ($450) and you've got the perfect Spring/Summer Fall/Winter outfit. The bag is an investment piece - the shape isn't too trendy, plus black and white never goes out of style so it can be worn in any season. It's a great size for toting to work, and it works for going out at night too.
Get your match on at ShopVogue.com
Since my love affair with Gucci has come to a screeching halt, I decided to turn to Fendi for my luxury needs. But then I realized that I now have a love/hate relationship with Fendi, that is, I love to hate their bags. I used to be a huge fan of Fendi growing up - I owned several double F logo bags - a cute black drawstring version, a thin strap shoulder bag, and others. But lately I've been growing weary of Fendi's new creations. I don't blame them for trying new things but they always seem to miss the mark.
This bag is a mishmash of colors and styles, and there's nothing 'luxurious' about it. It's meant to be 80's retro color-block but it looks more like the designer was color blind. In fat, it hurts my eyes to look at it. I wonder how much this ambitious creation is going to cost? Or even better, what poor sucker will shell out the cash to cop it?
Do you love it or hate it?
(Photos via Style.com)
Haute or not? Maybe I don't even have to ask - this is just hideous. I'm not a huge fan of Bottega Veneta's woven bags but at least they're somewhat classy. This 'Limited Edition Snakeskin Bag' looks like the leftover confetti scraped up from the streets in Times Square on New Year's Eve regurgitated in the form of a purse.
Every now and then it seems that luxury designers lose focus and attempt to venture into new design territory. My advice to them is: Stop it! Stick with what you know best. This bag is a prime example of when good design goes horribly wrong. Even if you typically don't like snakeskin, you have to admit it can be done right. This, however, takes snakeskin to a whole new ugly level. Red, blue, green and yellow snakeskin strips are stitched together then topped off with gray (???) braided leather, a ruched top, clasp closure, and lined in blue suede! Ewww!! There's way too many colors, textures, and trends in one, and an equally revolting price tag of £2,850.00. And isn't 'limited edition' supposed to mean exclusive? I think in this case it translates to "probably won't sell so let's not make too many."
I'm not big on promoting handbags that cost as much as a small car, a down payment on a mortgage, or even a small country. But I will share the details of what I believe to be truly exquisite handbags, in case you have a huge chunk of change lying around.
I was recently introduced to the Rene Lautrec for EKSO collection and was instantly impressed. Designer Rene Lautrec combines art, fashion, architecture and lifestyle to create wearable luxury handbags. 200 styles are made from every exotic animal known to man, like stingray, ostrich, croc and alligator.
These bags are accessories within accessories! Each handbag comes with interchangeable straps, a miniature perfume bottle inside (refillable only by the company), detachable cell phone cases, a white-faced diamond and cabochon-studded pocket clock, make-up bags, mirrors, and matching lipstick cases. My goodness!!! Talk about getting your money's worth! (Does it come with a Corvette and a dream house too?)
To up the snobbish factor, all the hardware is handcrafted and made of fade- and tarnish resistant sterling-silver, bronze, 24 karat gold, white gold, diamonds, and other precious and semi-precious stones. And once a year Lautrec produces custom, one-of-a-kind handbags, and to top it all off, he personally inspects each finished bag to ensure perfection.
Are you hooked yet?
Rene Lautrec for EKSO, is available exclusively at Alexandros, 5 East 59th Street, in NYC or by calling 212.868.1043.
Pictured, at top: The Renegade in genuine stingray ($8,500)
Pictured, at bottom: The Aristocrat in cognac ($12,500)
Came straight to this page? Visit What's Haute for more haute bags!
To up the snobbish factor, all the hardware is handcrafted and made of fade- and tarnish resistant sterling-silver, bronze, 24 karat gold, white gold, diamonds, and other precious and semi-precious stones. And once a year Lautrec produces custom, one-of-a-kind handbags, and to top it all off, he personally inspects each finished bag to ensure perfection.
Are you hooked yet?
Rene Lautrec for EKSO, is available exclusively at Alexandros, 5 East 59th Street, in NYC or by calling 212.868.1043.
Pictured, at top: The Renegade in genuine stingray ($8,500)
Pictured, at bottom: The Aristocrat in cognac ($12,500)
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