Musings about form, function and handbag fashion for the stylishly off-kilter : BagExchange.com

Do You See Trees or the Forest?

Ugh, while I love clutches because they can be so utilitarian (cast as wallets) or as embellishment (double as accessories), they kind of look the same after awhile. Thanks to the powers that be that Roberto Cavalli is here to bestow some unique and conceptual versions of the clutch. I feel like I should be part of the ensemble in a Peter Jackson epic. Roberto Cavalli’s Runway Suede Leaves Clutch in Lavender reminds me of the vintage YSL bags of the Tom Ford era, but more significantly it does evoke a sense of those walking and talking trees in film version of Lord of the Rings. As for the Runway Suede Fringe Clutch in Beige, also by Mr. Cavalli, I like it as it reminds me of the overgrown woods of the Pacific Northwest, and it would also bode well at a Tiki-esque luau. Both are available from eLUXURY. Each measuring 13.5″x 6″x 1″, and run between $1,475 and $1,525.

2008 04 23 ellen Clutches Comments (0) Permalink

Clutches Worthy for Bali Ha’i

Mythical beaches where the wind sings and the water laps in time. Imagine walking along the shoreline, lost in thought, dressed exquisitely in white, and carrying a complex, overly designed clutch.

Starting from left–

Kotur, Lind Clutch in Natural/Jade, glossed straw woven in a geometric pattern throughout, while semi-precious stones in organic shapes grace the top, unique hard box clutch captures summer’s essence with its light wood tones and a clasp of jade and tiger’s eye, fully lined in brocade with a hidden goldtone strap, 9″ x 2″ x 4″, $285, @ Vivre.
Daniele Cornaggia, Snake Clutch with Obsidian and Horn Buttons in Natural/Multi, clutch is covered in Hardwick snakeskin from Southeast Asia in pale grey and white tones, large horn and obsidian buttons are hand-sewn onto the front, closure features an ebony clasp with four magnets for a secure fit, fully lined in calf leather, 7″ x 1¾” x 5 ¼”, $1,275, @ Vivre.
Lotus Arts de Vivre, Bamboo Shell Clutches in Black or Gold, hard-box styling with a removable top and shell and pearl pattern, cotton and bamboo body, fully lined, 7 ¼” x 1 ¾” x 5 ½”, $850, @ Vivre.
Anya Hindmarch, Raffia Clutch in Natural, raffia clutch studded with faceted tiger’s eye, gold diamante snap clasp, lined in natural suede with interior pocket, 9″ x 5″, $385, @ Vivre.
Kotur, Bright Wicker Clutches in Orange, Black, Turquoise, Purple or Green, woven wicker in hard box version featuring a brass plated closure modeled after ancient Ming Dynasty chests, fully lined in brocade, 9½” x 2½” x 5″, $245, @ Vivre.

2008 04 17 ellen Clutches Comments (0) Permalink

Wedding Guest

I’m thinking of what to wear for an upcoming wedding in Sag Harbor, but this ensemble would be appropriate anywhere with Spring-like conditions, near water or not.

Starting from left–

J.Crew, Silk Jacquard Daisy Dress in Spring Daisy, floral jacquard arranged in windowpane checks, midweight cotton/silk, sleeveless, fitted bodice, A-line skirt, inset waistband at natural waist, on-seam pockets, ties at back neck, open keyhole back, back zip, fully lined, falls just above knee; 23″ from natural waist, $268.
Giambattisa Valli, Brocade Trench Coat in White, sumptuous boucle fabric in 90% cotton and 10% silk, princess collar dress style coat, concealed popper fastenings, belted at waist with ribbon tie, volume created in coat with inverted pleats, $3,102.36, @ Matches Fashion.
J.Crew, Cristobal Mettalic Heels in Silver, Italian leather upper, antiqued-buckle detail at ankle strap, leather lining, man-made sole, 2 3/4″ stacked heel. Recommend to order a half-size up from your regular size for the best fit. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $195.
Marni, Silk Clutch in Bronze, silk, silvertone hardware, art deco style clasp, $495, @ Mona Moore.

Deal of the Week: GAP’s New Design Edition on Sale Now

Available now at Gap Online, the designs of Philip Lim, Michael Bastian, Philip Crangi, ThreeAsFour, and Band of Outsiders. High fashion at Gap prices! Hee hee!!!!!

edited 4/15: I realize this post has nothing to do with handbags, but forgive me for this one trespass.

2008 04 15 ellen Auctions and Sales Comments (0) Permalink

Handicraft

In third grade, I watched with envy as some of the girls in my class joined Brownie scouts, and I imagined them learning how to tie sailor knots or weave a rug or something. In fourth grade, as an extracurricular activity, my teacher taught some of my friends and me how to crochet and knit. Moving onto high school, as one of my electives, I decided to take an “easy” class, so I registered in sewing. I think I had my fill of ric-rac, hemming, and overlock stitches. To my dismay, I think I got a ‘C’ in that class for sewing the crotch of a pair of pants wrong. I had inadvertently sewn the left rear panel to the right front panel 3 times in a row. Now, as an adult, I like to spend my free time reading novels of centuries past, where the activities appreciated were embroidery, drawing, and taking up a musical instrument. Ahhhh, I wish I were more gifted in those areas, and this outfit gives me hope that I can wear hand-crafted items or that has the look of handicraft. The ruffles on the top and the pencil skirt remind me of the sundresses and a basic skirt we made in sewing. The weaved wedges takes me back to that time I wished so dearly to be a Girl Scout. I am lusting for this Mombasa with its hand-embroidered blooms that reminds me of like fireplace screenings that would descriptively pop up once in a while in a Jane Austen novel.

Starting from left–

Alisha Levine, Ruffled Back Silk Top in Purple, jewel neckline, ruffled at hem, open back, pure silk, made in the USA, $180, @ Neiman Marcus.
Odille, Timeless Twill Skirt in Navy, versatile cotton and spadex pencil-skirt, triangular pocket, dainty kick pleats, side zip, machine wash, 22.75″L, made in the USA, $98, @ anthropologie.
Henna Leaf Wedges in Carmine, perforated leather and laminated linen jute with leather trim, cutout linen peep-toes, adjustable buckle, linen, leather insole and sole, 3″ wedge, $178, @ anthropologie.
Yves Saint Laurent, Mombasa Collector in Beige/Multicolor, canvas shoulder bag with hand-embroidered flowers and deer horn handle, 10” H x 12” W x 1.5” D, made in Italy, $1,795.
Dsquared2, Leather Bow Bracelet in Natural, logo-embossed grained leather band, small logo-embossed leather bow, golden metal tips, secure spring ring clasp; logo-embossed leather tab on adjustable chain, total length measures approximately 11.75″, made in Italy, $125, @ eLUXURY.

2008 04 13 ellen Accessories & Jewelry
Ensembles
Small Purses Comments (0) Permalink

Stocking Up and Taking Stock

Sorry for the lack of posting. I haven’t really found anything lately to titillate. This lull in finding something scrumptious actually had me thinking about my thought process. Collecting handbags is pretty much like stocking a kitchen pantry. You need a little bit on the sweet side, a little on the spicy side and of course, the basics like flour, beans, rice and cereal that take up the bulk in the food closet as well as in your tummy. Same with handbags. Substitute sweet for classic/conservative styled ones, spicy with rocker and studded items, and the basic items would be, I guess, the totes we all need in our lives for babies, travel, school, backpacking. The ultimate goal is to have a well-stocked pantry to take you through anything kind of natural, or fashion, emergency.

In So. Cal., we live constantly with earthquakes that it’s considered ‘everday’ or ‘normal’ just like others, like our compatriots in the central states must contend with tornadoes, thunderstorms, snowfall. So, the well-stocked pantry is certainly important for “just in case”. Well, my attitude seeps into the way I view a handbag collection. I have been caught so many times invited to some wedding, shower, or some semi-formal to formal event and I would realize that I don’t have anything to wear. Finding an outfit at the 11th hour is not as hard as making sure that you have the right handbag to go with the occasion. Like my pantry, I want to make sure I’m well prepared for, not so much for being sequestered, but for showing off plumage.

I started off picking up the right totes, and I have one for almost each occasion. I have two leather totes for schlepping on the weekend in tan and black, and a third, nicer, dressier tote for those invites I was telling you about when the whole family is invited (it acts as a incognito kid bag). Then, I have my daily satchels, two in lighter weight and with more vibrant color for Spring and two heavier, more subdued ones for Winter and Fall. The two for Spring can alternate depending on my mood. Both are larger size so I can throw in a scarf if I get caught in a light rain shower or wind, and they both can be hand-carried because I love the look of that, but have shoulder straps for those requisite shopping trips. The two for Winter and Fall are suede or patent leather. They both have longer straps to fit over heavy parkas and coats. The patent is a fantastic solution for rainy weather—I can look fabulous but I won’t have to worry about water spots on my bag. Finally, for the long, all-day shopping trips to the outlets or when traveling, I have two smaller bags, which are a Balenciaga Purse and a Botkier bronze hobo, that seem to fit any event while away from home. They both hold everything you need plus, it works day and night.

Now, while it may seem that I may have enough work-horse bags, I lack in the department of dress-up. I do not have any evening bags to speak of. I have a vintage bakelite and velvet number but at 9″ x 6″, it’s too small for me. I don’t want a clutch like I am supposed to. I want a nice big purse to fit wallet and my huge makeup bag and not look frumpy like I didn’t have any other bag to wear but to bring along my day bag. So, the search continues. One caveat to this already challenging challenge: my checking balance is low. I think it will be a while until I find that holy grail, but I’m on the look-out. Do you have a similar problem? Let’s kvetch over some coffee and oh, I think I have some biscuits in my pantry to share.

2008 04 11 ellen Articles, Books & Essays Comments (0) Permalink

The Ultimate Bag for Moi: Gucci Hysteria Python

Frick. I think I might pee in my pants. Oh, that is so un-p.c., but hey, it’s my blog, and my tolerance is high. Oh, man, it this thing goooooor-geous, or what?! Worth its weight in gold. This indescribably beautiful thing is a bargain, given that it can be a day bag as it’s big enough, an evening bag as it’s luxe enough, feminine enough as it’s wrought is all curves and curvaceous faces versus angles and planes, and masculine enough to counteract prissiness by the pennyweight medallion structured hardware. Then, you’ve got the flexibility to hold by in hand or on the shoulder with the two different types of strap. Oh my, it’s perfection if ever. The Gucci Hysteria Python Medium Satchel is available @ Saks Fifth Avenue for $3,990. 17″W X 14″H X 3″D. Gucci crest detail. Inside zip, cell phone and PDA pockets. Black python with double handles, detachable shoulder strap, and magnet snap closure.

2008 04 08 ellen Daily Carryalls
Utilitarian Totes Comments (0) Permalink

Joy Gryson Designs A Plethora of Handbags for Target

I had a chance to see these in person at my local Target, and they are certainly available online for purchase. As you might guess, the material is the polyurethane version of patent or naplak , which unfortunately is being overused by Target. That being said, since the material is of no relevation, it is interesting to see Joy Gryson take this humble material to new heights– a time-intensive weave blending thin and broad strips. It actually looks quite cultivated and as far as I can see, Ms. Gryson’s capsule collection is thus far the most successful of all of Target’s limited edition designers in staying true in vision AND oeuvre and her reputation. See for yourself…..

Starting from left–

Gryson for Target, Woven Tote in Black, chic and casual tote, polyurethane, zip closure, double shoulder handles, 16″x6″x15″, $49.99.
Gryson for Target, Patent Woven Satchels with Cut-Out Handles in Black, White or Green, polyurethane, shoulder bag with zip closure, removable strap, cut-out handles, 18″x6″x13″, $44.99 each.
Gryson for Target, Oversized Patent Tote in Blue, polyurethane, open top with no closure, double handles, 14″x6″x15″, $34.99.

2008 04 04 ellen Daily Carryalls
Small Purses
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Goldenbleu: Mistress of Naplak

I just love that crinkled texture! A cousin of the traditional patent, naplak is of a similar method by which a plastic coating is heated to adhere onto a fabric surface. The effect looks less uniform as if the process was done by hand versus a machine. The “distressed” look of naplak has been wholly embraced by high-end designers as it miraculously transforms any form of accessories into something modern and street-smart. Goldenbleu was on the bandwagon a loooooong time ago, and I am a big fan of Rene Huber’s designs. Her bags ring very Old World classic without being stodgy or stuck in a time-warp. It’s still a relatively new brand. If you are unfamiliar with this brand, you may think the prices are a little bit on the high side for such a green label. BUT, if you have ever seen or even own one, you will understand that these bags are made to last beyond this season. They are well-crafted and heavy, as the hardware and the heft of the thick suede inside can load you down even with just a wallet and pen inside. In fact, that suede lining can be very well used as an exterior of a handbag (it’s that substantial). Even with the weight, do consider. Hey, many have heavier bags (ummmm…Chloe?), and the love is still there.

Starting from left–

Goldenbleu, Carson Shoulder Bag in Water, naplak patent leather, contrast stitching throughout, tassels and magnetic-snap closure at front flap, rolled shoulder strap, suede-lined interior, 12″ x 18″ x 5″, 6″ strap drop, $725, @ shopbop.
Goldenbleu, Parker Patent Leather Tote in Black, naplak patent leather with geometric topstitching, polished gold metal hardware, rolled patent handles with oversized clasp attachments; 8″ drop, decorative D-rings on the front and back, gusseted sides, double zip top; zips all the way down both sides, fine textile lining, flat patent base with protective metal feet, 13″x 11″x 5″, $815, @ eLuxury.
Goldenbleu, Charley Fold Over Clutch in Sunshine, naplak patent leather clutch with tonal banding, 11″ zipper closure, and magnetic closure at front flap, contrast stitching at seams and zipper pocket under flap, suede-lined interior features 7″ zipper pocket and key ring, 7.5″h x 13″, $500, @ shopbop.
Goldenbleu, Lillian Bag in Black, naplak patent leather handbag with tassel detail at front and raised seam detail throughout, gold hardware, buckled shoulder strap wraps around top, double magnetic-snap main compartment closure, suede-lined interior features 8″ zipper pocket, 14″ x 17″ x 7″, 8″ strap drop, $695, @ shopbop.

2008 04 03 ellen Clutches
Daily Carryalls
Utilitarian Totes Comments (0) Permalink

Summer Blacks

Instead of wearing ethereal layers of white of the bohemian variety, take it formal with an asymmetrical dramatic cocktail dress. Eschew roman sandals for roman-like diva booties in winter suede. Forget the straw bag, and take out a lambskin beauty that begs to be touched. This ensemble is just a testament of how you are the coolest femme to heat up further those hot evenings.

Starting from left–

Pegah Anvarian, Astride Dress in Black w/Black, SALE $495, @ Funky La-La.
Bliss Lau, Bijoux Clutch in Black (also available in Scarlet), inspired by organic shapes of Hawaii: palm trees, lambskin French seams, detachable chain wrist strap, solid brass Italian hardware, secure zipper closure, 10” x 5.5” x 1″, SALE $140, @ Funky La-La.
Tashkent by Cheyenne, J Collette Suede Booties in Black, gathered suede, peep toe, $563, @ Funky La-La.

2008 04 01 ellen Clutches
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The Most Popular Shape and Color on Sale @ Aloharag

Black on black and an east-west orientation is simply iconic. Never can go wrong. Fits essentials and then some yet the appearance doesn’t reflect the heft and bulk lay secreted away between its buttery folds. Silhouette is the same but treatment can go from rockster fab from De Couture to Parisian chic based on master style arbiter, Pierre Hardy. One can always count on aloharag.com to be masterful to provide some handsome choices. And, right now, they are two that are sooooooooo affordable, it’s criminal.

Starting from left–

De Couture, Enamel Boston in Black, 100% leather, made in Italy, double strap (detachable), strap length: 30.5″, 12.5″ w x 7.5″ h x 7″ d, WAS $995, SALE $398.
Pierre Hardy, Bag 2 Pony Satchel in Black, 100% pony skin, leather and patent leather, made in Italy, handle length: 18″, 15″ w x 7″ h x 6″ d, WAS $1,300, SALE $520.

2008 03 30 ellen Daily Carryalls Comments (0) Permalink

Basking

There is an inverse relationship between the number of warmer days and the need to wear multiple layers. Like water giving away as the last visage of morning frost to morning dew, our skin yearns to be warmed by the same source. So, we break out the sun-dresses and plant our feet firmly onto the ground. It feels like pure freedom. Pair them with a classic handbag with twist (i.e., the Speedy slimmed down), and it makes a fabulous ensemble to meet summer.

Starting from left–

Narciso Rodriguez, Runway Ring Dress in White/Purple, 100% cotton, round neckline, sleeveless, hidden front snap placket, contoured seams down bodice, ring pattern encircles full skirt, rear shoulder yoke, $1,980, @ eLuxury.
Louis Vuitton, Monogram Canvas Montorgueil PM, monogram canvas with natural cowhide trim, name inspired by a lively pedestrian street in the center of Paris, shiny golden brass hardware, flat leather shoulder straps with ring attachments, engraved nameplate on the front with Old English Louis Vuitton signature, pleats on sides, 14″x 8.2″x 6.3″, $735, @ eLuxury.
Maison Martin Margiela, Tabi Flat in Brown (also available in Black), iridescent coated leather with woven canvas trim, round separated toe, woven tie on vamp, subtle pintucked gathers throughout, grained leather lining and padded insole, leather sole, 0.25″ heel, made in Italy, $775, @ eLuxury.