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

Lodis Offers Yanks a European Finish

Lodis was established approximately 35 years ago with a first collection in the U.S. retail market using the time-tested skills and quality of Spanish leather crafting. A quick scan of its website confirms a classic, tailored aesthetic with the exception of the Lucca Collection of which some are pictured here. Ironically, it’s the more contemporary fare that colours the Lucca collection that I find appealing. They seem to hold their own; I doubt that they will get lost in the background of any casual ensemble. Actually, the glazed calf leather elevates the slightly Prada inspired shapes that they can be worn with business wear.

Starting from left–

Lodis, Lucca Large Satchel in Red (also available in Black, Dark Brown), glazed calfskin, nickel hardware, full zip closure, removable shoulder strap and ID tag, full zip closure interior pocket, interior cell phone and blackberry slots, 18×14x3″, $325.
Lodis, Small Shoulder Bag in Dark Brown (also available in Red, Black), glazed calfskin, nickel hardware, full zip closure, full zip closure interior pocket, interior cell phone and blackberry slots, removable ID tag, 15.5×8.5×1″, $250.
Lodis, Small Satchel in Black (also available in Dark Brown, Red), full zip closure, removable shoulder strap and ID tag, full zip closure interior pocket, interior cell phone and blackberry slots, 14.5×12.5×3″, $285.

Stardusted Beauties from YSL @ Bluefly

It’s hard for me to resist these. Really hard. And, only a few days ago, I told myself that I wouldn’t be checking out Bluefly. So, call me a hypocrite. These gorgeous Downtown totes by Yves Saint Laurent scream St. Tropez. Apparently, while they look big, they are lighter than the Tribute and even the Rive Gauche. How amazing is that? If I were to go vacationing, and could only bring one handbag, this would be it. It can be a carry-on, a day tote, and without effort at all, become a glittering evening companion. Metallics are the new neutrals and these carryalls will cast a flattering light over anything they touch in meteoric proportions. Note: I find that items on Bluefly, for the most part, sell quickly, but the site also replenishes usually. This means that one must check often!

Starting from left–

Yves Saint Laurent, Large Calfskin Downtown in Gold, grained calfskin with polished goldtone hardware, double snap-close pocket with dual zip-closures for expandability at front, two buckle straps along front side, two partial top zip closures on either side, double handles measure 17½” with 8” drop; fits on shoulder, canvas lining with zip pocket and suede trim along interior top, two snap tops function as feet on base, 19” at widest x 13.5” x 9.5”, BLUEFLY SALE: $1,196.
Yves Saint Larent, Large Textured Downtown in Gold/Black, textured leather with metallic finish and brass hardware, double snap-close pocket with dual zip-closures for expandability at front, dual buckle strap along front side, dual partial top zip closures, double handles measure 17½” with 8” drop; fits on shoulder, satin lining with zip pocket and leather trim along interior top, dual metal feet at base with logo stitching, 19” at widest x 13.5″ x 9.5”, BLUEFLY SALE: $1,436.
Yves Saint Laurent, Large Textured Downtown in Silver/Black, textured leather with metallic finish and brass hardware, double snap-close pocket with dual zip-closures for expandability at front, dual buckle strap along front side, dual partial top zip closures, double handles measure 17½” with 8” drop; fits on shoulder, satin lining with zip pocket and leather trim along interior top, dual metal feet at base with logo stitching, 19” at widest x 13.5″ x 9.5”, BLUEFLY SALE: $1,436.
Yves Saint Laurent, Large Calfskin Tall Downtown in Silver, grained calfskin with polished goldtone hardware, double snap-close pocket with dual zip-closures for expandability at front, two buckle straps along front side, two partial top zip closures on either side, double handles measure 18” with 6” drop; fits on shoulder, canvas lining with zip pocket and suede trim along interior top, two snap tops function as feet on base, 18” at widest x 16” x 8″, BLUEFLY SALE: $1,436.

2008 03 24 ellen Utilitarian Totes Comments (0) Permalink

Parentesi: Inspired by Good Design

Parentesi is not so well known on this side of the Atlantic, but it appears that this brand has some clout on the other side that is somewhat akin to our respect for Banana Republic. I have purchased bags from YOOX and I can attest that the leather is very nice, supple and lightweight. While none of these designs will surprise you as you have seen them in the magazines with Marni, Mulberry and LV attached to them, I think these are refreshing in their own right, and perfect for those brunches as the weather warms up nicely.

Starting from left–

Parentesi, LargeLeather Bag in Black (also available in 7 other colors),textured leather, snap button closure, internal zip pocket, double handle, contrasting applications, 14.4″ x 10.5″ x 3.9″, $173, @ YOOX.COM.
Parentesi, Medium Patent Leather Handbag in Green (also available in 7 other colors), patent leather, framed closure, dual straps,s houlder bag strap length: 17.6″, 13.5″ x 10.5″ x 4.3″, $93, @ YOOX.COM.
Parentesi, Medium Patent Leather Satchel in Black (also available in 7 other colors), patent leather, zip closure, double handle, 10.7″ x 7.8″ x 3.1″, $71, @ YOOX.COM.

2008 03 22 ellen Daily Carryalls
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Big Looks, Small Price…First Step to Counteract Emotional Spending

The world of blogging has been fun for me, and it provides a quick resource to pamper myself amongst care-giving and cleaning (remember, I’m a stay-at-home-mom). However, sitting in front of the computer screen for the purpose of finding content has its down-side: too much eBay-ing, too much time spent reading other shopping blogs, too much time looking at sale items. In fact, I have been blogging less, because I’ve whittled so much time looking for things to buy. Now, while due to this side-line surfing, I have become more educated as to the finer details of high-end items, I have also become a rabid consumer of such. I was never into designer items where I felt the need to own them. For the longest while, admiring them was enough. Things changed recently. I think the fact that I have time on my hands and no discernible stable schedule have made me feel edgy, discontent and lost. I would look for the quickest way to smooth the nerves and that would be done simply by jumping onto the internet.

My mantra,”Okay, just one nice Yves Saint Laurent….just one Muse” conveniently got silenced as the id of my sub-conscious took over as I browsed the YSL site. Soon, I had rationalized that I needed another Muse, and then to be sure that neither Muse would get overused, I so convinced myself that I needed a Tribute to alternate with. Only a year later from that first spark of desire, I now have 3 YSLs and…gulp, 3 Balenciagas, 1 Botkier, a few more Kate Spades added into the mix. And, I still want more. While our household finances are not so bad, and we have retirement and the kids’ college funds set up, I feel my spending ways could get us into trouble if I don’t do something about it soon. We worked so hard to get out of debt when we first got married. I had over $40K in student loans on top of that. So, why do I want to mess myself up? Am I a self-hater?!

Looking into the cause of my discontent will take time, but to act now, I need to figure some quick solutions. I think to curb my impulses, I should not look at those high-end items I’m so drawn to, but that’s unrealistic given that my blog is about all things beautiful in a handbag, regardless of price. However, I am good at not buying handbags at full price so I hope that will continue to be my saving grace. I already have steered clear of department stores, so I wouldn’t even be tempted. The problem remains that the internet is too convenient and too accessible. I can ban myself of anything that smacks of deals, steals and sales which means good-bye to eBay and Bluefly. I think that I should look at alternatives to the $1200 handbag.

I intuitively know that a great looking item is not synonymous with a designer name or high pricetag. So, why do I deny it at (most) times? More moderate taste will be reflected in future postings, and I hope you will join me in this ride. Oh, I’ll keeping oohing and aahing on gorgeous expensive handbags, but I will also look into lower cost ones too. Great taste comes in all scales and prices.

By the way, here’s a no-nonsense advice and solace for people who shop to feel good.

2008 03 21 ellen Articles, Books & Essays Comments (2) Permalink

Arboretum Visit

Rununcula colors up your handbag. Daffodil yellow hovers over your toes. Vivid orange daylily swaths your physique. Finally, just a touch of raffia signals playfulness. Let’s walk!

Lola, Scrolled Stitched Raffia Fedora Hat, natural raffia with frayed edges and orange top stitching, one size, $130, @ Vivre.
J.Crew, Ruffle Piqué Shift Dress in Rhubarb, washed cotton piqué washed, shift silhouette, fitted, crewneck. Piqué ruffle collar and placket, rib trim at armholes, falls to midthigh; 18″ from natural waist. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $88.
J.Crew, Jeweled Posey Patent Leather Flats in Sour Lemon, Italian patent-leather with enameled-paillette posies hand-sewn in India, antiqued-buckle detail at ankle strap, man-made lining and sole, made in Italy. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $225.
Coach, Leigh Leather Flap Pocket Satchel in Brass/Rose, vintage leather, turnlock closure, outside back zip pocket, two outside front pockets with turnlock closure, Legacy stripr lining, 6 3/4” handle with laced details, 7″ drop, 14″L x 8 1/2″h x 4 1/2″w, $658.

2008 03 18 ellen Daily Carryalls
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A Gothic Spring as Envisioned by Prada

Looks like someone has been staring at Van Gogh’s The Starry Night a little too long. The hues and tonality of Prada’s runway collection is remarkably similar to those of Van Gogh’s magnum opus versus the animated bacchanal extravaganza that’s currently on view on the Prada website. Nevertheless, each interpretation plays into the design’s roiling curves, writhing lines, and violent eruption of florals from the comparatively constructed and quiet background.

Starting from left–

Prada, Rosette Tote in Black, nappa leather, top handle; buckled shoulder strap, tonal leather rosette detail on front, 9″H x 8″W x 5″D, $1,150, @ Bergdorf Goodman.
Prada, Floral Tote in Cipria, beige leather, buckled shoulder straps. floral appliqué detail, 8.3″L x 12.6″W x 4.3″D, $1,750, @ Bergdorf Goodman.
Prada, Striped Satchel in Violet, nappa leather, wavy striped stitching, top handle, 13 1/4″L x 16″W x 5 1/2″D, $2,050, @ Neiman Marcus.
Prada, Flower-Heel Mary Jane in Multi, purple/green velvet, dark green patent leather trim, bow detail on upper, buckled ankle strap, flower-detail on heel, $750, @ Neiman Marcus.

2008 03 16 ellen Daily Carryalls
Ensembles
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L.A.M.B. Flaunts

I wonder what it’s like to be her…the fashionista. Wait, correction–I wonder how does it FEEL like to be the fashionista. Whether you do or don’t agree with their style, there are women out there who have the bravado to pull off a runway look. I may look at it and automatically say, “Oh, gawd, that looks hideous, uncomfortable. Too flashy!” However, if I take egocentricity out of the equation and look again, I can see that beyond my level of comfort, that woman, may have got something that I wish I had: flair fits her like a second skin. So, secretly, in my meek everyday suburban way, when I go window-shopping, I find myself at a store browsing the section of clothes that are either too editorial, too small or too young for me, and just imagine what it would look like on me (and in my mind, I’m always two sizes smaller than real life). Or, even more insidious, putting on some skyscraper stilettos just to feel what it may be like in her shoes. It’s like that secret fantasy of wanting to be a cheerleader, a professional ballerina, or Olympic gymnast or ice-skater. Hey, I know that I have the academic chops and the necessary logged hours at the library to know that I shouldn’t want this but, why the hell not? Know the old saying, “Work hard. Play Hard”? Well, why not “Achieve Boldly. Dress Boldly”? Mmmmm, maybe not as clever, but hopefully, you get the idea.

Clothes and accessories from much hullabalooed fashionista, Gwen Stefani, cranks up that much excitement. It’s got that appeal of the progressive that you might remember from school, the one who first wore a lipstain, the one who dressed in Givenchy while the rest of us were in Izod and Levi’s, the one you thought didn’t care much about anything but clothes but ended up an ivy-leaguer in journalism.

Starting from left–

L.A.M.B., Edie Dress in Deep Navy , 85% viscose, 11% nylon, 4% lycra, xcoop neck with standing banded collar, short sleeves, contrast panel down front with double-knit checkered pattern and decorative button placket, wide patent leather belt threads through dress at waist, slim skirt, $425, @ eLuxury.
L.A.M.B., Margate High Waist Stretch Jeans in Black, high-waist, skinny-leg stretch denim styled with logo-detailed buttons at the ankles and a logo-embroidered back pocket, zip fly, two front zip-closure slant pockets; two back pockets, approx. inseam: 34″, approx. rise: front 10 3/4″; back 16″, cotton/polyurethane; machine wash, $185, @ Nordstrom.
L.A.M.B., Dominic Platform Sandal in Black, knotted upper with double-high platform, cone-shaped heel, and little drape that can be worn up or down, leather upper, leather sole, heel measures approximately 4.5″, platform measures approximately 1.25″, $319.95, @ Endless.
L.A.M.B., Glazed Love Pavia Bag in Black, lazed leather with quilted banding at front and back, 11″ zipper pocket at back, leather tassel and lock at side and chain detail at quilted shoulder strap, ‘L’ detail and magnetic-snap closure at front flap, 8″H x 14″L x 4″D, 9″ strap drop, SALE $450 (originally $675), @ shopbop.
Harajuku Lovers, Juku Card Watch in Grey/Yellow, rectangle dial with three hand movement, stainless steel case and leather strap, adjustable buckle closure, signature Harajuku Lovers charm, $95, @ Zappos.

2008 03 14 ellen Ensembles
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The Bigger Picture of Marc Jacobs’ Colorblock Fever

Like many of you, I read other handbag blogs too. We all have different slants or point of views, even when it comes to critiquing the same bag, and, there seems to be an equal number of those who do not like the recurring colorblocking theme that Marc Jacobs has employed of late to his own Collection, the MbMJ line and even in his capacity as the designer for Louis Vuitton. Subjectively (but, of course), I agree with this conjecture when it is about those all too haphazard patchy-worky handbags from the Marc Jacobs Collection, but they are working for me when it comes to the moderately priced Marc by Marc Jacobs and high-end Louis Vuitton. So, why is that?

Well, to me, it appears that Marc is more successful when visual treatments are paired in opposition. This comes from the sand-washed quality of the LV monograms and the deliberately raised weave, thus playing into the idea of rawer working. And this rawer working contrasted with overly precise linear stripes of geometrical perfection instigates a balance. In the case of MbMJ, the vastness of tinted leather in an unstructured format lets us perceive things of a natural order. The leather appears uncorseted, compared to the binding by a quilted format in the Marc Jacobs Collection. It is this ‘looseness’ that beckons the viewer to come poke, while the colorblock acts as a partition to keep the oozing in check. Quite ironically, opposition equals visual harmony.

Lest this rambling post won’t end, I give you the colorblock in extended version, i.e., as an ensemble. And, surprisingly, it all goes together without being caricatured. All available at eLuxury.

Starting from left–

Louis Vuitton, Monogram Tissé Sac Rayure PM, linen and cotton monogram canvas with grained leather trim, polished golden brass hardware, flat leather handles with contrasting leather trim and link attachments, adjustable buckled band encircles the top, multicolored stripes on the front, golden round studs throughout, open top, protective metal feet, 11.6″x 9.4″x 5.9″, Limited Edition, $2,090.
Louis Vuitton, Monogram Tissé Rayure Clutch, linen and cotton monogram canvas with grained leather trim, polished golden brass hardware, detachable belted shoulder strap with clasp attachments, golden round studs throughout, flap top with buckled band closure, 12.8″x 7.9″x 3.7, Limited Edition, $1,780.
Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Colorblock Hillier Hobo in Midnight Multi, crinkled patent leather, polished gold metal hardware, rolled patent handle with logo-engraved ring attachments; 8″ drop, removable flat patent shoulder strap with links and clasp attachments; 16″ drop, pintucked pleats on the front and back, plaque on front reads: “Marc by Marc Jacobs, Standard Supply, Model #, Type: Workwear”, open top with hidden magnetic closure, multicolored textile lining, 15.5″ (at widest point)x 16″x 4.5″, $498.
Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jacobs Meredith Sweater Dress in Puce Multi,100% pima cotton, contrast banded trim, round neckline, short sleeves, button down henley placket, ribbed knit bodice, banded waist with skinny canvas belt, full pleated skirt, $358.
Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jacobs Patent Leather Loafer in Navy/Red, patent leather, contrasting patent trim, squared toe, polished gold metal links over vamp, smooth grained leather lining, metallic leather padded insole, leather sole with rubber heel pad, 1.75″ patent-covered heel with golden trim at the top, $465.

2008 03 09 ellen Clutches
Daily Carryalls
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Fendi Beaded Spy Bag

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! UUUUUUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! Oh, my eyes, my eyes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No further comment.

Fendi, Fendi Beaded Spy Bag in Orange, pebble-grained leather, braided leather piping, logo-engraved polished gold metal hardware, braided two-tone leather shoulder straps with thorn-like knots; 5.5″ drop, ornate multicolored beading and golden fringe encircles bag, braided leather handle on front flap with looped metallic leather strap, secret compartment with mirrored end hidden in loop of flap closure, Zucca jacquard coin purse with push-lock closure inside flap, Zucca print textile lining, 16″x 9.75″x 6″, made in Italy, $6,260 (yes, that’s right), eLuxury.

2008 03 08 ellen Daily Carryalls Comments (0) Permalink

Kate Spade Beckons Warm Weather with Wicker, Cotton, & Colorblocking

Although a throwback of a few decades, these still never go out of style for they are the ambassadors of a certain panache/look thus becoming a key player by just being present. Even without the wearer, these breathe all by themselves, exhaling confidence and inhaling esteem. They trot, aware that, but not self-consciously, attention will come as assuredly as the sun rises in the east.

Starting from left–

Bridgehampton Stevie in Black/Emerald, heavyweight cotton canvas with boarskin embossed cowhide trim, shoulder satchel with 7.1″ drop length, zipper closure, interior zip pocket and double slide pockets with leather detail, 14 karat light gold plated hardware, custom printed ticking stripe on 100% cotton twill lining, 8.6″h x 13.1″w x 6.2″d, $325.
Little Compton Sossity Basket in Toast/Black, wicker trimmed with smooth, soft patent calfskin, handheld basket, tab closure, 14 karat light gold plated hardware, custom printed bikini dot lining, 3.9” handle drop length, 7.2″h x 9″w x 4.5″d, $395.
Tisbury Venice Basket in Toast/Gold, handheld basket, tab closure, interior slide pocket, 14 karat gold plated hardware, cotton abbeville rose print lining, 7.7” handle drop length, 7.2″h x 10.7″w x 4.7″d, $325.
Melrose Noel Jaydn in Pink, Italian cotton linen blend with boarskin embossed cowhide trim, noel mark embossed, playful handle design and custom 14 karat white gold hardware, open top, interior double slide pockets and zip pocket, seersucker stripe on 100% cotton twill lining, 3.5″ handle drop length, 9.4″h x 12.5″w x 4.7″d, $375.

2008 03 07 ellen Daily Carryalls Comments (0) Permalink

Must Mention the Project Runway Finale: Congratulations, Mr. Fierce

At first, I didn’t get into Season 4 of Project Runway. I had gotten used to, and actually started to enjoy, the catfights and what-not (ah, reality telly at its best). Perhaps, it was because I became too much of a “couch potato’ and sort of let the TV images seep into my system. So, early into the season, since there weren’t any significant distractions as all the designer seemed to like one another, I worked on waking up my brain and concentrated on the actual designs and workmanship. Boy, am I glad I did, because in the end, I found myself thinking that this was the best ever–it was the best FASHION ever presented on Project Runway.

At the finale, while I was torn between all three of the official finalists (Rami, Jillian, Christian), and to be honest, I would wear anything Jillian makes, my heart instinctively pounded when Christian’s collection came down the runway. Raw talent is what people describes of his gift. Yes, but to inject such a visceral element in American design is needed. We are used to the elegant and the subtle abstracted qualities of Donna Karan, Michael Kors, and Diane von Furstenberg, it’s practically exhilarating to feel fashion as well as see it. Christian Siriano already has a website up for perusing and contact. And, if you are a big geek fan like me, here’s his audition video for the show. Bravo.

2008 03 06 ellen TiVO It Comments (3) Permalink

Jovovich-Hawk Showcases 1970’s Élan with Art Nouveau Oeuvre for Target

I’ve been waiting for this. I’m not sure if they are in stores yet, but clothes and accessories by Milla Jovovich and Carmen Hawk are ‘live’ and ready to rock on Target.com. Here are some items that I plan to buy asap. Unassuming flirty girlish style is synonymous with the advent of Spring and the anticipation of Summer. Markedly mid-century in look, they garner influences from way past to produce delicate china-like pattern florals and graphics.

Starting from left–

Jovovich-Hawk for Target, Eyelet Jacket in Wave Ecru, short-sleeved cropped shirt jacket, 100% cotton, single button closure, rounded collar, machine wash cold, $34.99.
Jovovich-Hawk for Target, Dot Wrap Cover-Up in Ebony & Waffle Cone, bat-sleeve sheer wrap, 100% polyester, tie closure, machine washable cole, $29.99.
Jovovich-Hawk for Target, Gilded Treasure Jumper Dress, shirtdress pinstriped with subtle gold, short sleeve, v-neck front and back edged in lace, polyester, machine wash cold, mid-thigh length, $32.99.
Jovovich-Hawk for Target, Cross-Dye Linen Tote Bag in Navy, linen, interior zip pockets, magnetic strap closure, double handles, 10″ x 7″ x 2″, $29.99.