BAGPOOR

They Call Me Mellow YELLOWWW

2010-03-09T12:30:00.001-05:00

There's a serious color trend going on in the handbag section of every major department store...YELLOW! I'll admit that it's not my favorite hue in the world, but it will certainly stand out in a boring handbag collection. Have you ever noticed how many compliments you receive while wearing something daring? Don't be afraid to take a risk with color. Here are a few of my favorite yellow bags for Spring! I must start with the Lanvin Happy PM Python Shoulder Bag! It pretty much incorporates every trend into one breathtaking bag. Yellow showcases the flawless python skin perfectly. I live for the chain links, which feature grosgrain ribbon wrapped straps for shoulder comfort as well as bow and coin detailing. $2550 is a small price to pay for such a classic flap front design that will never go out of style. Pick up the Lanvin Happy PM Python Shoulder Bag at Barneys. Let's move on to the gorgeous Paige Gamble Stingray Clutch. It's timeless design and subtle shade of yellow will look so chic with your summer dresses. Stingray is the perfect introduction into the wonderful world of exotic skins because it's affordable and understated. Gamble always treats her bags, so you don't have to worry about sloshed champagne or scratches. We all know how crazy those garden parties can get. Did I mention that this little beauty was featured on Luca Luca's Spring 2010 runway? It's available at Paige Gamble for $1400. Can we talk for a moment about the unabashedly yellow Bottega Veneta Yolk Shiny Calf Tote Bag? The Italian calfskin is so supple and I love the grommet detailing as well as the scalloped hem. This tote is by no means typical for Bottega Veneta, but it's a fun departure in my opinion. Purchase directly from Bottega Veneta for $1850.

Goyard's got some brand new bags...

2010-03-08T12:08:00.004-05:00

...and they're kind of boring and outrageously overpriced! Let's start with the Leather Vendome. The classic shape is quintessentially Goyard and of course the leather is buttery-soft perfection. The roomy interior is perfect for busy mom's and corporate women alike. My only complaint is the wood paneling. Yes, you read correctly! That is indeed wood paneling at the base of the handles and it appears to be shellacked. It immediately conjured up memories of those old station wagons with wood paneling that always beg the question, Was that EVER in style? Can we talk for a moment about the price? I know it's Goyard, but $6870 for a bland satchel with wood paneling. No thanks, I'd much rather have 3 LV Alma's and take my entire family out to a fabulous dinner to celebrate not buying this ridiculous bag. The Medium Saigon is certainly a better design. I love the Goyard print and the grandma chic aesthetic totally works for such a traditional brand. I'm not even offended by the wooden handle. However, the wood paneling still doesn't work for me. It's slightly more reasonably priced at $2940. For those of you that are interested, these bags are available at Barneys.

Weekly Fashion Roundup!

2010-03-06T14:44:00.001-05:00

Rihanna attended the Echo Awards in Berlin on Thursday wearing what can only be described as a Green Goblin costume. She's also rocking a new blonde bowl cut and stunning nude patent leather Loubou's! Thoughts?

Chanel launched its first ever online brochure entitled 'Latin Lover.' The photographs by Karl Lagerfeld feature pieces from the Spring Summer 2010 collection and Baptiste Giabiconi of course.

Carine Roitfeld has pissed off Nicolas Ghesquière for the last time! French Vogue has officially been banned from Balenciaga shows and the label no longer lends them clothes or advertises in the magazine. Yikes...wonder what she did?!?

Here's the preview of Christian Siriano's long awaited documentary, which will air on Bravo, April 5. The program will follow Siriano as he prepares for Fashion Week, does Emmy fittings, and balances his personal and work lives.

Dries Van Noten Python Clutch

2010-03-05T12:47:00.001-05:00

How fun is this Dries Van Noten clutch? It will instantly update your humdrum Winter wardrobe with Studio 54 glitz and glamour. The metallic green python skin is breathtaking and so original. A concealed magnetic closure will save you countless hours of struggling to snap your clutch closed. Don't you hate that? The interior is refreshingly organized with two compartments separated by a zippered pocket. Not to mention the fact that the lining is silk. Now that's what I call luxe! Honestly, I'm thrilled that the embellished grosgrain wrist-tie is removable, because it's a bit over the top for a daytime look and almost cheapens the overall design. With that being said, I'm impressed with the direction that Dries took with this bag and I'm actually excited to see what's next from a design house whose handbags have never warranted a second glance. Purchase at Browns Fashion for £720.00 ($1,087.20).

Carlos Falchi Tie-Side Bag

2010-03-04T12:51:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love a ginormous tote? You can throw everything in them without any concern for space. Sure, they can get a bit heavy, but they're well worth it when you don't have to answer the age old question that has plagued fashionistas since the beginning of time...Vogue or my laptop? I actually had the pleasure of feeling up this gorgeous Carlos Falchi tote yesterday and let me tell you...it is the softest, squishiest, supplest leather in the world. It was designed to resemble the bags that artists use to carry around their supplies. The tie-detailing not only looks really cool, but it allows the bag to expand, so you have the option of using it as a weekender. Like all Carlos Falchi bags, the lining is a fun colorful printed nylon. Purchase the taupe leather version at Bergdorf Goodman for a very reasonable $895. If your heart desires the chocolate ostrich variation with black crocodile trim, it's merely $4100, also at Bergdorf Goodman. We can dream...can't we? Please avoid the fugly white adaptation.

Valentino Floral Flap Clutch

2010-03-03T11:46:00.002-05:00

Flower detailing is certainly not new for Valentino, which is why this floral flap bag is so beautifully made. Clearly this piece is not your everyday clutch. The textured flowers that cover the front flap are strategically positioned in a way that is not overwhelming or overdesigned. It's so difficult to find a bag with creative dimensional features that work, but Valentino makes it appear effortless. Although the clutch may look like a fabric bag, it's actually made entirely of leather. The gray wrinkled leather flowers lay flawlessly on the bag like a piece of art. The Valentino Floral Flap Clutch is only available in limited quantities by pre-order HERE for $1,795.

FYI - Nordstrom is having an AMAZING sale on shoes right NOW!

Burberry Fringed Calfskin Handbag

2010-03-02T11:30:00.041-05:00

I adore the Burberry Prorsum Spring collection and this bag really stands out as a season lust-have. The gorgeous metallic calfskin is so supple and I love the frayed detailing, because it incorporates the fringe trend without being over the top. It's quite large at 16 1/2"W x 11"H x 5"D so super petite or thin women may want to reconsider because your bag should always be proportional to your body. My favorite design aspect is the ginormous knot detail! It gives the bag such a sophisticated and elegant touch. Purchase the Burberry Fringed Calfskin Leather Handbag HERE for $1695.

Can you name that bag?!?

2010-03-01T12:21:00.001-05:00

HINT: She's the designer and this clutch is new for Spring!

UPDATE: Dania is the queen of "Name that Bag" challenges, so of course she got it immediately! This is indeed Tamara Mellon and she's carrying the hottest clutch from her Spring collection. Who else would pair neon leather with leopard printed pony hair? The Daphne clutch will be available soon on Jimmy Choo's website for $1495.

Weekly Fashion Roundup!

2010-02-28T00:21:00.010-05:00

Italian Vogue launches Vogue Black and Vogue Curvy! With minorities and average-sized women continuing to break down so many barriers in fashion magazines, on the runway, and in ad campaigns I wonder if these sites are even necessary. Is this a step in the right direction or a gazillion steps back?

Anja Rubik plays with a snake in the February Issue of French Vogue and makes it look HOT!

Zac Posen wants women to be really warm and cozy in the Fall with fluffy fur enveloped shoes! Would you wear them?

My favorite model of all time, Naomi Campbell has been rocking the hell out of Alexander McQueen, who was put to rest earlier this week. In case you're wondering what she wore to the funeral, check out my new Facebook pic. Go ahead and send me a friend request...you know you want to!

D&G Crayola Quilted Bag

2010-02-26T13:03:00.002-05:00

Doesn't this bag seem like it's poking fun at a Chanel 2.55? It borrowed the quilted pattern and leather entwined chain strap, but decided to spruce things up with a Crayola color palette as well as zipper detailing and a decorative tassel. I think it's a great idea because there are so many women who just want to have fun with fashion, and couldn't care less about buying classic pieces that will stand the test of time. Cross-body bags were one of the biggest handbag trends in the Spring collections and for good reason if you ask me. They're compact, effortlessly chic, and super easy to wear! Pick up this little beauty at Stylebop for $705.

Vanessa Bruno Fringe Sack

2010-02-25T09:28:00.014-05:00

Vanessa Bruno bags are made with stylish and confident, yet fun women in mind. Bruno's pieces are always intriguing and are guaranteed to stand out in any bag collection. The new Fringe Sak is bold and daring. Not to mention that fact that it incorporates one of the hottest trends for Fall, fringe detailing. I haven't seen woven leather done this well in a long time. The weaving also features knotted segments that create a beautiful mosaic pattern that envelops the bag. Fringed leather strips add movement and texture to an otherwise classic design. It's quite sizeable at 14"H x 18"L and will undoubtedly hold all of your daytime essentials. The 7" strap drop coupled with an overall slouchy shape will accommodate most women. If you are ready to make a statement with an eye-catching and unique bag, snatch up the Vanessa Bruno Fringe Sak HERE for $1,494.

ASK BAGPOOR: Bag Bling!

2010-02-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

Dear Mr. Bag Poor,

You're not going to believe this, but I love Judith Leiber clutches. Can you find me the same look for SIGNIFICANTLY less? Thanks in advance!

Mrs. Cathy Rice from Dallas, TX

I'm actually quite fond of the exotic skinned Judith Leiber bags, but I have a sneaking suspicion that you're referring to the crystal embellished minaudières, which for the most part are elegant and luxurious. It's the $5000 bedazzled cheeseburgers that I have a problem with. But I digress. A lot of people still aren't aware that Swarovski has launched a handbag collection and I think that their 'Power' Evening Bag is perfect for you. It's decked out in crystals, but unlike Judith Leiber bags, it features a classic roll shape, which is more appropriate for actually carrying your "night out on the town" essentials. My pick for you would be the swan version pictured above, but it also comes in black and silver if you're in the market for a more classic design. Purchase the 'Power' Evening Bag directly from Swarovski for $850. Bring on the bling Mrs. Cathy and don't hurt 'em too much down there in Dallas! ;-)

Versace 'Scream' Shopper

2010-02-23T09:38:00.001-05:00

Patterns are one of the hottest trends for Spring and what better way to incorporate a new style into your wardrobe than with the latest "it" bag from Versace, right? WRONG! While I absolutely adore the overall design of the Scream tote, this pattern is so overwhelming, verging on jarring. This bag is a show-stopper and not in a good way. It would steal the attention away from anything else that you're wearing. I couldn't even hold a serious conversation with someone if they were wearing this monstrosity. I wouldn't be able to stop staring at her bag, and trying to figure out why it's so overdesigned. As if the contrasting patterns weren't enough, the Scream tote features bright yellow stitching and braided handles as well as studs and ruching. There's just way too much going on here. I actually spotted this bag a couple of weeks ago, but I didn't even notice how rocker chic it was until I saw the understated black version. The buttery-soft black Italian leather provides a perfect backdrop for all of the aforementioned detailing. Now the studs and ruching actually give this tote a stylish edge. Can we talk for a moment about the flip-lock closure? It resembles a light switch and essentially works the same way. Not only does it look cool and fresh, but it's quite simple to use. The patterned version is available for the audacious price of $3350, while the black variation is slightly more affordable at $1995. Preorder both adaptations HERE!

Alexander McQueen Flap Clutch

2010-02-22T11:35:00.010-05:00

Alexander McQueen may no longer be with us, but at least we still have his ingenious and exquisite creations to admire. This oversized flap clutch is another beautiful McQueen piece that is sleek, edgy, and refined. The Klein blue color of the eel-embossed leather is just stunning. I love the silver-tone trim around the flap - a detail that further highlights the gorgeous blue color. As you can see (below), this clutch is pretty big so you can plan on stuffing more than just your phone and make-up in it. Pair this bag with a great pair of jeans or even a cute cocktail dress and you are good to go! The chic and lovely simplicity of this clutch shows McQueen's immense talent. Pick up this gorgeous bag for $1299 at Zappos.com!

Carlos Falchi Painted Graffiti Clutch

2010-02-19T00:12:00.001-05:00

Carlos Falchi managed to fit a whole lot of fabulosity into one little clutch. At first glance this bag might look like an ordinary clutch with random graffiti that we have all seen before, but this piece is a little more special - it's made of natural python. Yes, I said it, python! I was pleasantly surprised to see such a beautiful exotic skin used on an unconventional clutch. Even though the hand-painted graffiti completely envelops the bag, the python skin does not get lost in the shuffle. In fact, the flawless scales provide a perfect backdrop for the graffiti print. After carrying around simple hobos and satchels during the day, I like to have fun with my clutches and this Carlos Falchi bag fits the bill. I must say that this clutch is definitely not for everyone, but the python skin paired with a graffiti print is an admirable feature for any bag lover. Snatch up this bag from Neiman Marcus for $515 and hit the streets in style!

Ralph Lauren 'The Point' Messenger

2010-02-18T12:18:00.003-05:00

If I learned one thing from the Spring 2010 collections, it's the fact that military madness isn't going anywhere. There were enough epaulet's, badges, and puke green jackets on the runway to inspire even an anti-war activist to enlist. The trendiest of all designers, Balmain, had an entire militia on the catwalk, including this crocodile leather jacket that caused quite a stir in the blogosphere, mostly due to it's outrageous $70,000 price tag. I love the look! As a child, I used to take my parents' old military uniforms and incorporate them into my wardrobe. I distinctly remember pairing my Mom's camouflage jacket with cowboy boots and a fire engine red Coach messenger bag. Yes, I was quite the eccentric. Now that I'm older, I prefer a more subtle approach to style, especially when it comes to trends. That's why I can't get enough of this Ralph Lauren 'The Point' Military Messenger. The army inspired color palette and minimal canvas detailing are certainly influenced by the military, but not so much so that you can't continue to wear this bag for seasons to come. The hand-selected python skin and Italian craftsmanship epitomize Ralph Lauren's simple, chic, and luxurious design aesthetic. Purchase directly from Ralph Lauren for $3295.

"A" is for "Akris" and "Accessories"

2010-02-17T15:22:00.003-05:00

I discovered Akris apparel at Saks Fifth Avenue many years ago and immediately fell in love with the quiet sophistication of the brand. You can imagine my excitement when I found out they were launching a new accessories collection for Spring 2010, and it did not disappoint. All of the bags are stunning and the ad campaign starring Daphne Guinness is genius! My favorite design is the trapezoid-shaped bag, which is actually an "A" for Akris. The rich horsehair fabric in a variety of beautiful colors and leather trim detailing is so modern and effortlessly chic. Lastly, and perhaps most notably, the minimalistic design has not been interrupted with a single logo! According to Harper's Bazaar, the gray version pictured above, which is the most appropriate size in my opinion, is $1990 at Akris boutiques. Call 212-717-1170 for additional purchasing information. I'm seriously considering picking up the messenger version of this bag in black and I have a feeling that we're going to see the clutch variation on quite a few "must-have" lists.

Anya Hindmarch Gracie Shoulder Bag

2010-02-17T07:59:00.016-05:00

Anya Hindmarch bags are quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Her designs are always so simple and chic. This isn't an easy task to accomplish. Think about it. How many contemporary designers are creating timeless, classic pieces that don't completely bore you to tears? The Gracie bag epitomizes Hindmarch's design aesthetic. I immediately fell in love with the sophisticated pleat detailing. It's unapologetically feminine and irresistibly façonnable. Both the pink and cream options are perfect for any Spring wardrobe. Did I mention that Anya Hindmarch leather is the real deal? It's so buttery-soft and sumptuous. All for under $1000 at Matches Fashion. What a steal!

Stuart Weitzman Zippo Bag

2010-02-16T14:06:00.004-05:00

How about a round of applause for Stuart Weitzman! I appreciate the classic and refined pieces that Weitzman is known for, but let's face it...they're relatively boring. This Zippo Bag is quite a refreshing departure for him. The exposed zipper trend, which is very popular right now is done tastefully on this bag. The fact that you can detach the shoulder strap and instantly have a clutch is great. I actually like this bag more as a clutch than a shoulder bag, but that's a matter of personal style. The rich leather is stunning. It comes in several colors - lilac (pictured above), black, camel, pink, and sea plonge nappa (pictured below). The lilac option is definitely my favorite, but they're all gorgeous. Did I mention that the Zippo Bag is reasonably priced? Purchase HERE for only $495.00. Now, that's what I call cheap and chic!

Sang A F/W 2010 Presentation

2010-02-16T01:20:00.005-05:00

Fashionistas, champagne, breathtaking handbags suspended from the ceiling, AND an auction raising money for a good cause? Sang A certainly knows how to have a presentation in style. Let's start with limited edition Flash clutches, the proceeds of which benefited Free Arts NYC.

I live for this white patent leather version with buttons. Don't they resemble colored contact lenses?

The geometric design on this clutch is so fresh! Okay, enough with the chit chat. Let's get down to business.

The Flash clutch has been updated for Fall with an iridescent palette that practically screams Studio 54. I can't decide which color is my favorite.

If I had this grouping of bags, I could die happy! The Ritz finally comes in neutral colors and I for one am really excited. There's just something so glamorous about a black or gray fox fur clutch. The metallic gold python cross-body bag with linear detailing is fierce. And the pièce de résistance is the Pop bag. It's a soft tote in stunning blue python skin.

Editor's Note: Thank you Shannan J. and Jay H. for attending the show on behalf of Bagpoor.com!

Dolce & Gabbana Miss Martini Bag

2010-02-15T15:38:00.001-05:00

"Florals...for Spring. Groundbreaking." Preorder HERE for $1095. "That's all."

Derek Lam Amelie Mini Duffel

2010-02-15T07:49:00.012-05:00

Mini duffels are so cute, but I think you have to be petite to werq them right. As a 5' lady, I fit into that category, but if I saw Michael's 6'3" ass with this Derek Lam Amelie mini duffel in his hand, I would die laughing. Honestly, mini bags like this one just look ridiculous if you are not tiny. With that said, I absolutely love this bag. It embodies everything that Derek Lam is known for - modern design and simple yet beautiful sophistication. The oversized tassel and the asymmetric flap pocket on the front are details that set this bag apart from your ordinary duffel. Oh and did I mention that the shoulder strap is detachable? Talk about versatility! You have the option of wearing it as either a cross body or shoulder bag as well as tote it around with the double handles. If you are feeling this duffel as much as I am, you can pick it up at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,250.00.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T12:03:00.000-05:00

Tod's D-Styling Bauletto Medio

Givenchy Pepe Sacca

Trussardi 1911 Fringe Bag

Fendi Pochette

Judith Leiber Heart Minaudière

Guest blogger: RW(Michael's Mom)

Harper's Designer Double Take

2010-02-13T14:12:00.003-05:00

When we take a departure from bags...it must be good! In the March issue of Harper's Bazaar, "model Irus Strubegger transforms into some of the most iconic fashion talents of our day." With Karl Lagerfeld as photographer, this spread is genius...a must see.

Karl Lagerfeld

Donatella Versace

John Galliano

Carolina Herrera

Vivienne Westwood

RIP Alexander McQueen

2010-02-12T15:19:00.002-05:00