Weekly Fashion Roundup!

Let's dive right in to a Tyra Banks update. As of yesterday, her talk show is OVAH! Unfortunately America's Next Top Model hasn't been cancelled yet, but there are some major things happening next season. First and foremost, André Leon Talley will be returning as a the judge. More importantly, the winner will be on the COVER of Vogue Italia! Is that enough to make you tune in? I know you're probably wondering what any of this news has to do with the picture and the answer is...absolutely nothing. I just thought it was hilarious! Supposedly, this shoot was a tribute to Alexander McQueen, but obviously it was just an excuse for ALT to play dress up exactly how he dresses everyday. Oh...I almost forgot the most comical Tyra Inc. update. Apparently she has a new book series coming out next summer, tentatively refered to as Modelland, which will help young girls to celebrate their dreams everyday in real life. Modelland? Sounds more like Dullsville! BREAKING NEWS: Since writing this post 21 minutes ago, I also found out that Tyra has signed with IMG, but not as a model. She stated on her website that "IMG is such a huge company, there are many things I will be doing with them. Some fashion-related, but don’t expect to see me at any go-sees!" Tyra is so desperate to prove that she is still relevant without the talk show...it's kind of embarrassing!  

Huggies created limited edition denim diapers and the commercial is adorable, albeit a little creepy! 

    

Patricia Field breaks down the outfits from the karaoke scene in Sex and the City 2 and even I was in shock by the sheer fabulosity. Carrie's ensemble alone was $50,000, thanks mostly to the Swarovski encrusted denim jeans.

 

What's wrong with this Louis Vuitton ad? Go ahead...I'll give you a minute. Yeah...I couldn't figure it out either. According to NY Mag, it has been banned by British Authorities for misleading customers. "The images show people who are supposedly Vuitton's craftsmen doing what looks like hand-stitching to their leather goods. However, Vuitton's bags and wallets and things are made primarily by machine, not by hand." Do you think this shocking revelation normal ad practice will stop anyone from coveting LV bags?

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Santi Clutches

Michael and I just returned from seeing Sex and the City 2! I don't want to spoil it for you, but I will say that the wardrobe was impeccable and the script was more comedic than the first movie. However, nothing happened...like, their lives didn't change at all. See it for yourself and tell us what you think. Between the film and these Santi clutches, I'm ready for a lavish vacation to Abu Dhabi! The elegant and affordable bags are known for their flirty aesthetics that make every woman feel like a princess. I love the pearl embellished clutch. The classic pearls juxtaposed with a modern silver chain give it a unique texture and couture vibe. The Santi flower puff clutch is the epitome of femininity. Completely enveloped with multicolored three-dimensional flowers, this bag is bold yet offers a soft fabric exterior that is bound to be a conversation piece. Best of all, you can really splurge on the dress, because Santi clutches are affordable, ranging between $198 and $288 at Joan Shepp.

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Jimmy Choo Chandra Clutch

       

I just returned from the Diana Ross concert and it was AMAZING! She is definitely the best performer that ever lived and the costumes were glamorous and undeniably feminine, but I digress. Jimmy Choo's Pre-Fall bags just hit the web and I already picked my favorite piece in the collection! The Chandra clutch is simple, chic, timeless, effortless...I could bore you with about ten more adjectives, but let's just dive right in to the details. The sumptuous "wetlook" suede has a beautiful iridescent sheen for just the right amount of glamour and I'm obsessed with the braided leather clasp. With the oversized trend rapidly becoming "so 2008," you'll love this clutch's measurements of 12" x 6" x 1". That's just enough room for your nightly essentials without being bogged down by a cumbersome, ginormous bag. For a more extravagant look, check out the karung snakeskin adaptation with metallic gold closure! You can't go wrong either way. Purchase the black version for $1495 $897 and preorder the karung variation for $1595 from Net-a-Porter.       

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New Designer Alert: Williams British Handmade!

Sarah Jane Williams recently completed a Masters in Fashion Artifact at the London College of Fashion, and she's already making a name for herself with the "Crafted Fashion" luggage collection. Her ability to use age-old techniques in creating completely original, modern pieces, has challenged an industry that typically considers tradition to be dated. I'm obsessed with the angular teal briefcase! The juxtaposition of traditional detailing with such a modern shape is quite extraordinary, but what I still can't fathom, is how she does it. Take my favorite piece in the collection for example, a curvilinear beige trunk. How on earth did she create such an extreme shape by hand? All of her pieces are made-to-order through her website, Williams British Handmade. I'd like to thank Sarah Jane Williams for the images and background information as well as Lee Mattocks for introducing me to her work. Both of these talented young designers are finalists in this year's Independent Handbag Designer Awards and we wish them the best of luck in their respective categories!

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BAGPOOR Exclusive: Chanel Fall 2010 Preview

Pudong Strass, $2508

Sequin, $6000

2.55 Icon, $4100

Icons, $4000

Quilted Fan, $3195

Coco Rain, $3100

Ultra Stitch, $3200

Karl Cabas, $4035

Call Hirshleifer's at 1-800-401-9313 for purchasing information.

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Kooba Hadley Bag

Before we get into today's post, I would like to ask that all of you take a second (literally) to vote Lee Mattocks for the In Style Fan Favorite IHDA. Please and Thank you! After quite a few disappointing collections from Kooba, I'm thrilled to introduce you to this season's ultimate affordable luxury, the Hadley Bag. A great deal of designers have unsuccessfully attempted the horizontal zipper trend, usually resulting in a bag that isn't particularly functional. On the Hadley Bag, however, the horizontal zipper serves as merely a decorative detail, while the top zipper provides easy access. The gorgeous goatskin leather has a beautiful sheen and it comes in a show-stopping turquoise as well as the perfect neutral for summer, ivory. This handbag is the perfect size at 6.5" x 12.25" x 5". That's just enough room for your daily essentials without being massive. Personally, I would remove the shoulder strap immediately, because it's too long for a bag of this shape and size. Purchase at Stefani Bags for only $475 $403.75. Get 15% off with code 15Off and shipping is free! 

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Prada Wristlet Pouch

After Nina featured that overpriced fugly Proenza Schouler pouchette, I figured that a few of you would be interested in an enticing alternative. This Prada wristlet pouch is the epitome of a grab-and-go bag for both day and evening. I just can't get enough of the supple Italian nappa leather, minimal pleated detailing, and understated gold-tone logo. This isn't one of those wristlets that can't actually store anything. On the contrary, it has quite a roomy interior, measuring 5" x 8.5" x 2.5". The adjustable strap will certainly come in handy when you've had one too many glasses of champagne at your summer garden parties. Pair the red version with a white summer dress and wedges for a flawless Fourth of July ensemble. This pouch also comes in black and cream, both of which are lovely neutrals for any season. Purchase at Barneys for a very reasonable $530.

              

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Alexander McQueen Faithful Satchel

After a month of careful consideration, I'm finally ready to give my opinion on the Alexander McQueen Faithful Satchel. I'm in love! Let's face it. Spring 2010 is all about cross-body bags and this satchel is top notch. The rocker chic detailing that Alexander McQueen is known for, paired with the functionality of a satchel that can be carried by hand or slung over your shoulder, practically screams "must-have." Additionally, the multitude of exterior pockets will certainly come in handy for quick grab-and-go storage.

My only complaint regarding this bag is the quality of the leather. Maybe, in order to maintain the structured shape, a sturdier leather was used. It's not terrible, by any means, but it's certainly not sumptuous. For those of you that are often turned off by the added bulk that comes along with messenger bags, give this one a try. It's the perfect size for petite women. The yellow eel variation is gorgeous, but the leather adaptations are timeless and slightly more affordable. Purchase at Zappos for $2074 and $1454 respectively. 

 

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Proenza Schouler Mini Sac Pouchette

Ohhh emm geee! What the fug? I'm usually giddy with delight when I see Proenza Schouler bags, but this pouchette is incredibly disappointing. Nothing about it is working for me! Let's start with the cheap materials. The tacky prints look as if they escaped from a gay mental asylum. The only genuine leather utilized for these bags is the so-last-year patent detailing and the ostentatious logo plaque, which is too large and pretentious for such a small bag. The ubiquitous chain straps are completely unnecessary and only succeed in making the bag appear more dated. To add insult to injury, these pouchettes are extremely overpriced and I can't rationalize a reason why. Purchase at your own risk of being mocked and humiliated, from Kirna Zabete for $985 to $1145. If you like the idea of an ornately printed fabric clutch, we've got a significantly prettier, not to mention much more affordable, option for you from Alexander McQueen!

Marc Jacobs Gilda and Castoro Fur Bags

Fall bags are trickling in online and I think it's time for us to have our annual discussion about fur. Between his namesake label and Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs had two of the best collections this season. However, these bags are absolutely ridiculous! The ladies who lunch styling has been completely ruined by unnecessary fur detailing. As if the sparkling sequins weren't enough drama, the Gilda flap bag is decked out in dyed fox and raccoon fur. Not to be outdone, the Castoro is completely enveloped in beaver fur. To add insult to injury, these fluffy monstrosities retail for $1995 and $2250 respectively. Preorder from Saks Fifth Avenue at your own risk. So what's your opinion on this topic? Is it ever okay to wear a fur bag? 

Bags that give back!

The Feed Bag has been a favorite of celebrities and society women for over a year. I always supported the worthy cause, but to be frank, the original bag was really boring and kinda fugly. For its online debut at Bergdorf Goodman, the Feed Bag has been completely revamped and I'm loving the makeover. I can't explain it, but I have a major problem with canvas handles, so I'm most excited to see the addition of leather straps. You'll also notice that "FEED" has been decked out in a myriad of colored beads. The interior is lined in brightly hued Kenyan Masai fabric. With these few minor changes, the natural burlap feels organic and stylish, as opposed to cheap and dated. This tote would be a perfect gift for graduating college seniors. Purchase the Feed Bag for $195 and not only will you feed two Kenyan school children for a year, but you'll also help to employ the women of their community, who handcraft each bag using traditional techniques.  

Gucci has been collaborating with UNICEF for a couple of years now, and I can finally give my stamp of approval this season, because the bag isn't gimmicky or ostentatious. The Sukey Tote in a gorgeous putty grey is about as timeless and sophisticated as it gets. Guccissima is my favorite monogram because it's monochromatic and understated. The detachable charm has all the makings of an adorable keychain. This bag may be elegant, but it's not pretentious, so feel free to pair it with a crisp white shirt and dark denim. Purchase the Sukey Tote directly from Gucci for $1295 and 25% of the retail price will go towards funding programs in Malawi and Mozambique, where nearly one million children have been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Devi Kroell Krstyle Clutch

Sorry for the three day hiatus...again...lol. There's just not that much to talk about in the handbag world, but I did manage to discover a scrumptious daytime clutch from Devi Kroell. This is one of those bags that you have to see in person to truly appreciate its understated charm. At first, this may seem like your standard fold-over clutch, but it's all about the details. The supple Italian leather features three neutral hues that complement each other and don't even slightly resemble a patchwork bag...thank God. It's hard to miss the super chic braided zipper pulls, but did you notice the textured leather used for the corners? If you're the type of woman that likes to cram her clutch, I think you'll be surprised by the sizeable silk interior. Pair this bag with a white dress and you're out the door in effortless summer style. Purchase the camel Krstyle clutch directly from Devi Kroell for $990. I would avoid the other two color options.   

ASK BAGPOOR: Attractive Gym Bag!?!

I have been searching tirelessly for an attractive gym bag. I'm sick of carrying the same old Longchamp as everyone else in America. Any suggestions Michael? My only requirements are that it be nylon and large. 

Thanks, Nicky

This was a tough one for me Nicky. Honestly, I always recommend Longchamp
or Dooney & Bourke nylon handbags, because I don't believe in spending Prada prices for a gym bag. But I never forgot about your question, and when I came across the Adidas by Stella McCartney Sersa hobo, I instantly knew that it would be perfect for you. It's nylon and ginormous so it meets your prerequisites. I'm obsessed with the shape! I don't recall ever seeing a nylon hobo. If you need a little extra space, simply unsnap the buttons and you've got a sizeable tote! Purchase the Sersa hobo from Zappos for only $79 and workout in style. Hope this helps Nicky and sorry it took me so long to respond! If you have any questions for the Bagpoor team or just want to gab about handbags, feel free to contact us.

Versace 'Giselle Lock' Hobo

My mom has been going on and on about pre-ordering a new red Versace bag for over a week now. I finally got around to checking out the 'Giselle Lock' hobo yesterday and I'm obsessed with it. Versace never ceases to amaze me. They're consistently inconsistent. One drool-worthy bag followed by a few fugly bags...and repeat. However, the Italian craftsmanship and high-quality leather is incomparable.

I'm at a complete loss for words on how to describe the exterior detailing, except to say that it looks fashion forward and original. I love the fact that Versace doesn't follow trends...no chains, no fringe, and no tassels in sight! Personally, I prefer a zip closure, but a lot of women like the ease of a magnetic snap. The exterior zip pocket will certainly come in handy for grab-and-go storage and the strap is adjustable so larger and taller women shouldn't have any concerns about shoulder clearance. The red version is my favorite, but this hobo also comes in blue, which takes on a nautical feel, and a very rocker chic black variation. I know most people wouldn't even notice, but I can't get enough of the brightly hued suede lining! Purchase the Versace 'Giselle Lock' Hobo for $1350 to $1775. Shop Versace bags at Net-a-Porter.com.

 

Christian Louboutin Pre-Fall Bags Are In!

Unfortunately, they're all overdesigned. What's that famous quote from Coco Chanel? "When accessorizing, always take off the last thing you put on." Well, it applies to designing accessories too! I absolutely love the twisted pleated detailing that envelops the Tinzita bags and the beads add an interesting tribal aspect to the shoulder straps. However, the ubiquitous tassels were completely unnecessary. I am so tired of tassels and fringe! They're becoming an easy alternative to actually having to design a handbag and come up with something original. Let's move on the Marianana hobos. Not only do they feature super long fringe, but three chains straps as well. Did I mention that chain straps are next on my list of the most overused details in handbag design? The leopard printed pony-hair version is quite lovely, but the taupe leather variation is boring and eerily similar to the Stella McCartney Falabella hobo. These bags range in price from $1795-$2595 and they're available for pre-order at Neiman Marcus.  

Oh how I love the Met Gala!

First and foremost, Anna Wintour and André Leon Talley are there, so celebs vamp up their designer duds. More importantly, since it's an actual event and not merely an awards show, everyone is a gazillion times more likely to have a clutch. Sure I could review the gowns, but who cares when there were so many fabulous bags on the red carpet? Here's my top 5! First up is Satsuki Mitchell rocking a Spring 2010 Burberry Prorsum knotted clutch.  

Eva Longoria-Parker is wearing the most audacious clutch from Marchesa's Fall 2010 collection, while a very preggers, Ingrid Vandebosch, sported the Fall 2009 Judith Leiber Sunburst Moderne box minaudière.

 

Tina Fey carried the unforgettable Spring 2008 YSL Muse clutch that single handedly put zipper detailing on the map. And the winner is...Diane Kruger! She wore a simple and chic Spring 2010 Calvin Klein box clutch that flawlessly complimented her understated gown.

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Do you still covet the Hermés Birkin?!?

I'm baaaaack! Sorry for the hiatus. I know 3 days is like 3 years in the blogosphere, but I've been really busy at work lately. Let's dive right in to a heated topic that's been circulating in the handbag world. A couple of weeks ago, Senora Cartera rightfully reprimanded Lady Gaga for writing "I Love Little Monsters" in Japanese on her white Hermés Birkin bag. Then I spotted the recently released from prison rapper, T.I.'s fiancé Tiny, rocking a Birkin with Kool-aid red hair and distressed destroyed denim jeans. Don't get me wrong. I love Gaga and The Tiny and Toya Show is one of my weekly obsessions, but do we really want them wearing Birkins? The Birkin used to be a bag that only truly bag poor individuals were even aware of. Do these nouveau riche young women even understand and appreciate the hours of handmade craftsmanship that goes into each and every Hermés bag? In this economy, I'm sure that Hermés is thrilled with the fact that they can still sell handbags that range in price from $6500 to $120,000, but have they considered the future ramifications? Will average people like myself and the majority of my readers still want to save for years and join waiting lists, just to get their hands on the same red crocodile Birkin that Paris Hilton can pick up from Portero.com today for 65K? I know my answer to that question, but I want to hear yours. Do you still covet the Hermés Birkin, now that it's less exclusive?