That's A Fabulous Handbag

It's been a while since I have been able to say anything nice about  my once favorite label Gucci. There were a few spring/summer 2009 handbags that didn't make me cringe, and one or two that I actually liked, but things are looking up for the Fall/Winter 2009 collection. I'm not sure I'm ready to carry one yet (I was severely disappointed with the bags put out in the last few years), but I can see a possible purchase on the distant horizon. All of these bags are available at Gucci.com.

This is the 'icon bit' medium boston bag with horsebit detail, metal chain, D ring detail, and studs. The chain detail and minimal studs are just the right amount of hardware to give this bag a city street chic look that I like. However I think it's a bit overpriced for a medium sized leather bag. $1,990. It also comes in off-white, and that oil spill multi color they did last season (a hideous color in my opinion).

This is the 'galaxy' large shoulder bag with metal chain and interlocking G detail. This one is my favorite from this collection. I like the metallic green color on the python, and I have always favored the simple, large shoulder bag design. This bag also has just the right amount of hardware to give it a little attitude. Fairly priced for designer python. $3,500. It also comes in black leather, $2,500, about $500 too much I believe.

This is the 'icon bit' medium shoulder bag with horsebit detail, D ring detail, and studs. BORING! It comes in many colors and various materials. Prices start at $1,390 with this bland suede version. I wouldn't pay $500 for this bag.

This is the 'new jackie' large shoulder bag with hand stitching, tassels, and bamboo detail. I really like this bag! It's a classic design, but the tassels on the one side and the minimal bamboo detail are just the right amount of embellishments to compliment this bag. I also like that she fittingly paired gold hardware with this design. This bag comes in various material and colors, so the price range is broad, starting at $2,995 for the GG monogram version and go up to $9,990 for the ostrich version.The bag shown is $5,700, a bit steep in my opinion for python, but it is a beautiful handbag.

This is the 'interlocking' medium boston bag with interlocking G ornament and studs. I abhor the boston bag. It's an inconvenient design and it's anything but flattering on your arm. However, I'm not faulting Frida Giannini for this bag, as many labels include this design in their collections, so there must be some demand. I'm actually glad she didn't waste any beautiful materials on it. It's only made with the GG monogram fabric. There's just no way to make this bag look good. It's one of the less expensive full sized bag of the collection, fittingly. $1,350.

This is the 'crystal mix' medium tote. Two words: logo overkill. $990.

Tags: gucci handbags, fall / winter 2009 handbags, designer handbags

This Alexander McQueen handbag is an awesome value right now. It's about 60% off the original price, and is selling for $1,009. If you like it you better jump, they only have one left at this price. They have a few other Alexander McQueen handbags on sale, but this is the best deal for the best looking bag in my opinion, simply because the bag is fabulous and it's a style he is still designing so the look is current.

Available here for $1,009.

Tags: alexander mcqueen handbags, designer handbags

I have always wondered what celebrities do with their old designer handbags, you know they don't keep them and reuse them. I think Fashionphile is my answer. Who else would get rid of hardly used multi - thousand dollar designer handbags?

If you live in the LA area, you probably already know about Fashionphile, they have a boutique at 9551 Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Hills (as well as online) with hundreds of preowned designer bags. This is the place to go for an unquestionably authentic pre-owned Birkin or Kelly, and most are in mint condition. They have all the top designer labels, Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Jimmy Choo - like I said, all the best. If you shop online, there are detailed pictures of every part of the bag, so you can see the exact condition of your potential buy. You will also find limited edition bags that are impossible to find anywhere else.

They also offer a consignment service for people who want to sell their bags. Last year's favorite bag can either continue to collect dust or it can help pay for your latest must have.

This Chanel Jumbo Flap Crocodile bag originally sold for $28k, but it's in pristine condition and selling for $14,950 at Fashionphile.

This is the LOUIS VUITTON Watercolor Aquarelle Speedy 30 Bag, also in mint condition. $1,495 (original price $1,850 in May '09).

This is the HERMES BIRKIN 30 Blue Jean Togo Leather handbag, again pristine condition. $7,500. (original price unsure, but over $10,000).

Tags: designer handbags

I love the opulence of these Valentino stone encrusted handbags. These bags are reflective of much of the Fall 2009 handbag collections that are all about glamour and decadence, a wonderful optimism that we can appreciate.

These aren't traditional everyday bags, but the tote, Valentino Kaleido Tote $2,995, would be a great carry all for someone that likes a sparkly bag. Personally, I would use it as an everyday bag and the frame bag, Valentino Gemme Frame $2,980, would be for evening use...that is if I had a disposable income and could drop 6k on a couple of handbags. Available at Saks.

Tags: valentino handbags, fall 2009 handbags, designer handbags, evening handbags

Here's Fergie decked out head to toe in Louis Vuitton at last week's LV Men's Spring Summer 2010 runway show. Most noticeable in my opinion, is her handbag. It's the Louis Vuitton Monogram Coquette.

co·quette Pronunciation: \kō-'ket\ : a woman who endeavors without sincere affection to gain the attention and admiration of men. This fabulous handbag definitely has the attributes of its' moniker. It's a gorgeous, highly desired bag that is well out of the price range for most. A Fall Winter 2009-2010 Runway Piece, the over sized clutch lives up to its name with its glamorous stitching, rivets and that magnificent metallic pull that is a characteristic feature of this collection. Be ready to fork out mid-2K's if you are desirous to include this in your accoutrements.

Tags: louis vuitton handbags, designer handbags

Net a Porter has FINALLY gotten the Fall 2009 handbags, but currently we are only getting a sneak peek. They haven't put them up on the site for sale yet. Honestly I don't know what's taking them so long, all the other stores have them out for sale. Anyway, of this little sample we have the Christian Louboutin Loubistuds clutch, and next to it is the Chloe Python Paraty handbag. The pink leopard print clutch is Jimmy Choo, and next to that is Alexander McQueens knuckle duster clutch. In the top left corner is Marc Jacobs, and underneath is Bottega Veneta. It looks like they will have a pretty good selection. 

Tags: designer handbags, fall 2009 handbags

I know, you have already seen these Fall 2009 LV bags, but you haven't seen a closer look at the new straps. I'm SO excited about these straps. One of the few things that irritates me about Louis Vuitton handbags are the tan leather straps. They slowly age from a light tan color to a rich caramel color - fine. It's after the caramel turns to brown when things get ugly. At that point it's time for a new bag, right? Well I take my bag to the gym and often carry it when I'm sweaty, so the color turns brown way faster than would happen naturally, so my LV handbag turnover is pretty constant. The straps on this Speedy Gold ($2,160) and the Alma Eclipse ($2,470) in black sequins, solves my problem. And I love these bags, as well. Can you image how labor intensive it is to sew sequins over every logo? Hence the price.

Tags: louis vuitton handbags, fall 2009 handbags, designer handbags

I already loved the Alexander McQueen skull clutch, but with this one is even better. It reeks with attitude! Not only is this a fabulous clutch bag, it's also a protection device. Even the skulls are aggro! Just point it at the guy who won't leave you alone and I'll bet he gets the message. But violence aside, this is a nice alternative way to carry a clutch, although it does take up the use of your hand (I like a wrist strap). Also convenient, the knuckle duster keeps your fingers from smearing the patent leather. I think I might just get it...my husband does act up every once in a while . Available at Saks, $1,595.

Tags: alexander mcqueen handbags, clutch bags, evening handbags, designer handbags

Ever heard of Blush B Lush handbags? Me either, but apparently it is big in Europe and starting to make a bigger name for itself in the online community. Judging from this bag, I can see why. I'm usually not a fan of overly fringed bags, but this one is super cool. It has an urban chic style that could perfect certain looks - like worn in ( NOT acid wash ) jeans and a simple tank top. The bag has alot going on, so I think it should be the focal point of the overall look.

It's black and gold leather with gold hardware. This is a mid sized bag, measuring 23 cm Width: 30 cm Depth: 8 cm. $898 (includes shipping and tax) at LUISAVIAROMA.COM

Tags: blush b lush handbags, designer handbags

I found this great little clutch and thought it would be perfect for a night out with the girls. It just has a fun, youthful feel. It's a beaded fold over clutch with various solid colored stars on the flap and a large multi colored star under the flap that is revealed when you go to open the bag. $153 at chickdowntown.com

Tags: clutch bag