The Baggage Claim

Reed Krakoff l Boxer Tote

2011-10-17T23:03:00.002-07:00

I've never been one to pick a structured bag over a slouchy one. From a Martine Sitbon to a Lanvin Kansas, I tend to pick bags that can live, breathe, and mold to the way I carry them. That's why I'm surprised to find myself gravitating towards Reed Krakoff's signature Boxer Tote. There's just something about the clean and elegant, lady-like look of this structured tote.

This is one boxy tote that truly thinks outside of the box. First, there are many combinations of colors, fabric, and texture you can choose from. This particular one is composed of white canvas, with light grey and tan leather accents, a combination exclusive to Net-A-Porter.com. I'm not brave enough to spend nearly $1,000 on a white canvas bag, but if you're the type who manages to look effortlessly chic on an early Saturday AM, you could probably keep this one looking pristine somehow. I love the idea of the subtle and neutral color combination (I say "idea" here because that's what it will remain for my purposes). Secondly, the versatility of the hidden pockets in this boxer is something every bag should aspire to. See the belted front right there? That's a front pocket with a hidden magnetic closure. That means not having to fiddle with the belted loops, ever (How do people carry and get stuff in and out of the Hermes Kelly on the go, for instance? It's a problem beyond my wallet so I'll never know.) On the back, there's another outside pocket, again with a magnetic closure. Inside, you will find not one but two zipper pockets, along with two open pockets to hold a sunglasses and in my case, the Apple Magic Mouse.

I'm once again surprising myself by recommending the smaller size over a larger boxer (am I just getting old or what). The smaller boxer, which measures at 14"W x 12"H x 4"D, holds a 13" MacBook Pro or MacBook Air perfectly, and will stand in as a solid, everyday work bag. You can find other variations of the boxer (starting around $990) and Reed Krakoff's beautifully understated creations at ReedKrakoff.com, Net-A-Porter.com, or Saks.com.

(Image: Courtesy of Net-A-Porter.com)

Marc by Marc Jacobs l Petal to the Metal Flap Pouchette

2010-10-11T00:06:00.006-07:00

I know I said The Baggage Claim isn't going to turn into a parenting blog but let me just get this one out of the way: one of the challenges I'm facing as a new mom is that some people will only know me as Baby O's mom. That's how they will meet me, and that's how they will define me. Yes, I know that sounds like a pretty minor and selfish concern, but it gets even weirder when you're dealing with a bunch of other new moms, just in passing - like a music class for babies, for instance. What holds us together for 45 minutes once a week is the adorable bunch of drooling offsprings, and since the babies are not yet capable of articulating themselves in full, the moms have to do this delicate song and dance of baby talks that are actually addressed to the other moms. For instance, if Baby O was all up in another baby's business - though hardly controllable at this stage - I need to apologize to the baby (and more importantly, his or her mom) but also address Baby O to "remind" her it's not okay to pull another baby's hair.

No one communicates like that in real life. But I talk like that all the time now. Kind of have to. I sound like a crazy person and I hate it.

But if this is the social norm - and I've got quite a few more years of awkward encounters with other moms ahead of me - I'm not going to let the diaper bag define me, too. Yes, my diaper bag has become pretty much the most important bag in my life (can never have too many spare diapers) but I insist on using a proper wallet or a crossbody bag that's separate from it, rather than shoving some cash and credit card into my pocket. This Marc by Marc Jacobs "Petal to the Metal" bag in cement - though I do not own one - could be a great candidate for moms chasing after their munchkins. It's compact (7"W x 6"H x 1"D), stylish, neutral in tone (goes with pretty much everything), and leaves you hands-free (so that you can grab your daughter before she pulls that other baby's hair).

I wear a crossbody bag similar to this one pretty much wherever I go now, even during the 45 minutes of Baby O's music class. Most of the other moms seem to leave their wallets in diaper bags - or maybe they have a small one in their back pockets - but I just prefer to have everything on me at all times (hello paranoia). I guess that sets me apart as that weird mom who insists on wearing her bag at all times. At least it's not a fanny pack.

(Image: Courtesy of Nordstrom.com)

Where in the World is The Baggage Claimer?

2010-10-03T23:05:00.007-07:00

I honestly didn't think it would take me a whole year and then some to return to The Baggage Claim. It's quite embarrassing, actually. A lot has happened since the last time I wrote something up here. People really weren't joking when they said your whole life changes when you have a baby. Yep, that happened. My baby girl (who will be referred to as "Baby O" from here on) is almost a year old now, and it is with some pride (and perhaps trepidation) that I report she is showing pronounced interest in bags. If I win the lottery someday, I may have to ask folks at Valentino to make me a mini Histoire like the one Zahara Jolie-Pitt has.

Anyway, long story short, Baby O is a healthy and happy baby, with an amazing personality. She also keeps me very busy. I barely have time to shower, or eat, or sleep, since I work from home, too. And when you don't have time to do the basic things in life, priorities definitely change. It doesn't mean I stopped looking at bags, but I couldn't linger and babble online about why I love certain bags when there were bags growing under my eyes. I've also been buying bags that are quite different in style and function, with the Skip Hop Dash Deluxe bag in Uptown Stripe having become a staple (all those pockets!).

Don't worry. I'm not turning The Baggage Claim into a diaper bag blog anytime soon. It just means I may giving crossbody bags way more attention a top handle bag. Pockets will be scoring many more bonus points, whereas metal hardware will have to be used sparingly, given weight issues, and so on. So hang in there, dear readers. I'm surprised many of you - despite the lack of updates - have been visiting my old posts. I appreciate your patience as I try to get The Baggage Claim up and running again. Most importantly, I'll still be talking about indulgent things, however impractical. I may not have time to do it, but I haven't forgotten how to have fun, or at least dream about having fun.

Image: Courtesy of Skip Hop.

Mulberry l Bayswater Crackled Metallic Tote

2009-07-28T14:38:00.004-07:00

Can someone please get this bag while the sale lasts on ShopBop??! Currently $696.50, 30% off from the original price of $995 (should have snatched it up when ShopBop had the additional 20% off code this past weekend!). I saw it in person at the Mulberry boutique in New York and a lucky girl came in with her mom who bought it for her (at full price). Le sigh.

Image: Courtesy of ShopBop.

Louis Vuitton l Malle Mars Apollo 11 Commemoration Trunk

2009-07-13T06:30:00.011-07:00

As some of you may know already, Monday, July 20 is the 40th anniversary of Apollo 11's first lunar landing. I would like to think that I haven't lost most of the curiosity for scientific wonders that I used to possess as a child and that's why I am aware of this important date. Well, the curiosity certainly remains but the time and effort for its pursuit, perhaps, have suffered because of various responsibilities and distractions (such as...handbags?!). In fact, in the interest of full disclosure, I must admit that my work as a digital PR consultant for National Geographic Channel is how I am keeping abreast of the latest news about how America is celebrating July 20, 2009.

What does the moon landing have to do with handbags, you ask? As space exploration continues and moon landing, one day, becomes something people like you and I can aspire to, we'll need some heavy duty luggage to keep us stylish even in zero gravity. Being a man ahead of his time, Marc Jacobs already thought of that and took a stab at it. Behold, Louis Vuitton's Malle Mars Trunk created in celebration and commemoration of the 40th anniversary of Apollo 11's moon landing. Um, yeah, check out the world famous LV logos engraved on the surface of the pod, in case someone might mistake it for just another pod. Once open, the pod reveals - or at least the sample pod - handy compartments for books, dishes (um, can you really use glass plates in zero gravity...but I guess this pod isn't about practicality), and even a folding chair that appears Murphy bed style. I'm slightly disappointed there aren't more LV logos plastered inside the pod. Might as well go all out, no?

If you want to check out your future travel pod in person, the Malle Mars Trunk will be on display at NYC's American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Do let me know if you see a price tag on this baby haha. If you're nowhere near NYC, well, join me and tune in to National Geographic Channel this Sunday, July 19 at 10PM ET/PT and watch Naked Science: Living on the Moon to see what it might be like to live on the moon! End of PSA. ;)

Images: Courtesy of WWD.com via ILVOELV and HypeBeast.

Fendi l Peekaboo Medium Satchel and Chef Rainbow Tote

2009-07-09T19:11:00.007-07:00

Amidst the last leg of summer markdowns (danger, danger...up to 70% off!) I decided to give myself a break from the temptation of sale purchases and look ahead to sources of future obsessions (i.e. when will these go on sale?). It seems that I'll be obsessing over some Fendi bags for the next few months, based on the couple of bags that caught my eye.

The first is the Peekaboo Medium Satchel in Grey/Tobacco, which is currently available at Saks Fifth Avenue for pre-order for $1,980. I've seen other versions of the Peekaboo with different fabric and lining, and I must admit that I find the logo lining the most fitting and classic of the Peekaboos. Neiman Marcus, for instance, has a black/raspberry version, and while I appreciate the flash of color, I kind of like the logos peeking out from inside and playing off the name of the bag. I saw pictures of Sarah Jessica Parker carrying a version of this bag on a random Polish (?) fashion site and wonder if this is the same size (Saks website says it's 16"W X 12½"H X 6"D). If so, it looks super cute on her arm and I wish I could afford this arm candy myself.

The second Fendi that I like is the Chef Rainbow Tote. I'm usually not a fan of these funky colors (the Louis Vuitton watercolors come to mind) because they seem a tad bit too trendy to last a while among my wardrobe. Plus, the thought of paying $1,100 for a nylon bag, even with the snake-embossed trim, doesn't sit very well. But when was this blog ever about things I could actually afford? So let's dream on. Unlike the aforementioned LV watercolors, I think this version pulls off the look subtly enough and for some weird reason, it reminds me the type of color combination my dad -- an architect turned watercolor painter -- would use in his paintings. It borders on being almost too precious or ethereal but I would still like to have one to use as a casual day bag (11"H x 18"W x 5"D) to go with a white T-shirt and a pair of jeans...

Images: Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.

Jimmy Choo l Riki Patent Leather Shopper

2009-07-01T15:07:00.003-07:00

I know, I know...where in the world have I been??! I've been here all along, just lazy. I really have no good excuse. Just because I haven't written about bags in a while, however, does not mean that my obsession with handbags ceased. Believe me, I've been doing plenty of window shopping (a.k.a. research trips) and checking out other lovely fashion blogs to keep up to date. I do thank all of you for hanging in there while I went MIA - I'm always surprised how many friends and readers say they still check out the archives of The Baggage Claim even when yours truly is being super lazy. Not to offer this as an excuse for the absence, I have one big news to share, which is that I am now expecting a little girl this fall, which has been an exciting adventure! I'm not sure if we'll be dressed in matching clothes, but I do wish I were Angelina so I could give my little girl (and myself) matching Valentino's. Sigh. A girl can dream.

Being pregnant also made me not only reevaluate my wardrobe (good-bye skinny Earnest Sewn jeans, hello stretchy pants), but also my handbag collection. I have always been a big fan of large bags, as you may know, which allow me to take my mobile office with me anywhere I go. My laptop is pretty light but it's no netbook, so by the time you add the weight of the laptop to that of the thick leather of my Marc by Marc Jacobs Turnlock Faridah, I'm walking around lopsided though extremely proud of my fuchsia MJ. While contemplating diaper bag choices over at Babies 'R Us, I realized this is no longer a viable option for me. This mama is getting heavier, and there's no way she's going to lug around a bag that's going to weigh her down even more.

So in the aforementioned research trips (to Saks, Barneys, Nordstrom, etc...I know, I like to do my homework thoroughly), I began seeking out lightweight bags. I'm still a sucker for leather bags, as well as bold ornaments like metal studs, so it became quite a challenge to find something that didn't already weight 5 lbs without the contribution of my coin purse. One of the bags that somehow managed to meet all of the criteria (leather, metal studs, and lightweight) was Jimmy Choo's Riki Patent Leather Shopper (see above). The version I saw at Saks and at Jimmy Choos Boutique actually had pyramid metal studs (see left), which was eye-catching without being vulgar. I especially loved the mauve and stone (more like light beige) colors, which are both subtle and neutral enough to be pulled off with a whole range of colors. And since I was being all thorough with my research, I even took out all of the stuffed papers and put my own belongings in one, and was surprised to find the bag was still light enough. The straps are built well so that they stay on your shoulders, even if you had slightly slopping ones like mine. I know most people prefer the Ramona, a larger version of this, but for everyday use (and to resist temptation to stuff the bag with everything that will make it heavy), I think Riki is just perfect. The patent leather, of course, is much easier to take care of (except for color transfer issues with lighter colors like stone - looking at you, Jas M.B. Wings Traveler) and ideal for the rainy season we've been having on the East Coast this spring/summer.

The Riki measures at 14" W x 9" H x 6" D and typically retails for $1,850, but I saw the pyramid versions at Saks and Jimmy Choo Boutiques for 50% or more off. If you still have funds that survived this sale season, I'd give Riki a look.

Images: Courtesy of Nordstrom and Jimmy Choo.

Hayden-Harnett's New SoHo Store Opens Tomorrow!

2009-03-06T20:18:00.004-08:00

After the brief snowstorm we had earlier this week, now we're supposed to get a 70 degree weather all weekend long! Am I excited? You betcha! I'll probably walk around Old Town Alexandria or maybe Georgetown, soaking in the sun and enjoying a hint of the spring.

If I were in New York, I would probably end up in SoHo or LES to pop into my favorite shops. The thing about going shopping in a city like New York is that you can actually enjoy the weather AND get your walking and shopping done, as opposed to driving yourself to a suburban mega mall only to stay inside on a nice day. So if you're a New Yorker or simply visiting for the weekend, please do me a favor and stop by the opening of the Hayden-Harnett store in SoHo! They'll be giving away gifts all day long, and maybe you'll even find your new bag for the spring. I'm super jealous.

Image: Courtesy of Hayden-Harnett.

O Indie Designers, Where Art Thou?

2009-02-27T04:35:00.003-08:00

I'm not an expert on merchandising or anything like that, but given my obsessive online window shopping habits, I think I'm noticing a trend enough to state here and not be too embarrassed by it (you are, of course, more than welcome to correct or educate me as needed :). While looking for new inspirations or objects or obsession, I'm finding it more and more difficult to locate indie handbag labels on shopping sites. Even at places like ShopBop or FunkyLala, where they used to carry a ton of great, lesser known designers like Juliana Jabour, Orla Kiely, Martine Sitbon, GS Lillian (who stopped making bags and is solely focused on jewelry) and Elisa Atheniense it's becoming a challenge to find new faces.

Am I looking at the wrong places or am I seeing the effects of this economy on indie handbag designers? No longer is there room to take a chance on smaller labels, and such void has been filled with bags from Rebecca Minkoff, Gryson, Foley + Corinna, and Botkier, all of whom were - and to a certain extent, still are - indie designers but have become mainstream enough to make the cut. I guess I would do the same thing if I were a buyer, with only a limited budget and decreasing sales figures. The disappearing act continues with some of the beloved online and brick and mortar shops, as well as designers, closing their doors in the past couple of years, including JC Madison, Active Endeavors, Goldenbleu, and The Purse Store (which is now a part of Luna Boston).

There are, of course, resources consumers like myself can still turn to when in search of new talent, such as Etsy, ShopFlick (thanks to my friend Ahmad for introducing me), and Handbag Designers 101. But how are these designers doing? Are they finding it even more difficult to get picked up? I'm certainly having a harder time finding them, and calling for a search party. If you are a buyer or designer, or simply love bags like I do and have further insights, please leave me a comment!

Hayden-Harnett l Pamela Dowel Ladybag

2009-02-26T18:51:00.000-08:00

Today, for some reason, felt like a day to catch a matinee movie or stroll the halls of the Hirshhorn. It wasn't quite warm enough to linger at an outdoor cafe and though no rain in sight (yet), the overcast sky made me want to indulge in a full afternoon of some indoor fun and escape work. As you know, museums are free for the most part here in DC, and I just don't take advantage of it as much as I should. I suppose there's always the weekend, but nothing really beats parking myself on one of those plushy seats in a quiet gallery, listening to the floor squeak under the feet of an occasional fellow slacker or two. I was good girl and stuck to my schedule, but if I were to play hooky while getting some culture in, this Hayden-Harnett Pamela Dowel Ladybag would be a perfect compainion on that excursion.

Based in Brooklyn, Hayden-Harnett is the brain child of a husband-and-wife-team consisting of Toni Hacker, who's been designing accessories since 1999, and Ben Harnett. You can see where the "Harnett" came from. As for the "Hayden," well, it's just a name Toni always liked (me too). It does have a nice ring to it, doesn't it? Since starting the company with a line of handbags, Hayden-Harnett has expanded to shoes, apparel, accessories, and travel gear. While I had previously heard of the brand on e-commerce sites like Luna Boston, it wasn't until I virtually met and started getting to know the Hayden-Harnett team on Twitter and then Jessica, who reps Hayden-Harnett, that I realized the fun spirit of the creative team really comes through their products. If you haven't seen one of their behind-the-scenes videos, you're missing out.

Imagine admiring a Rothko or a Jackson Pollack in the East Wing of the National Gallery of Art, with your own work of art slung over the shoulder. This bag definitely looks like something you'd find at a museum gift shop (one of my favorite places to find unique gifts for self and others). There are three internal compartments to keep all of the brochures you pick up along the way, as well as a sketchbook and some pencils should you feel inspired. Measuring at 15.5" L x 10.5" H x 5" W, the Pamela Dowel bag is available for pre-order ($318) at Hayden-Harnett's website. For more information about Hayden-Harnett in Tony and Ben's own words, here are a couple of excellent interviews on StyleHive and The Purse Blog.

Image: Courtesy of Hayden-Harnett.

Carlos Falchi l Baby Satchel

2009-02-25T18:35:00.000-08:00

I never thought I'd say this.

I am getting sick of big bags.

Yes, pause.

Let's pause and ponder this. My favorite bags of all time include the Givenchy Nightingale, Anya Hindmarch Elrod, and Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Faridah, all of which I would consider, well, big bags. And to say that I am now...sick of them? Could it be possible? It's as though I just declared that I stopped loving one of my children (okay I don't have any kids yet, so all the parents out there, please forgive me for equating handbags to children).

Actually, that's not true. I still love these bags and would never dream of letting my cranberry MJ Faridah out of my sight (unlike the other "children" that I have...sold...to buy newer and better ones). I'm just not sure if they are the bags I will be taking out on my outings this spring/summer. It's as though I want to shed some winter weight but instead of losing it around my midsection, I'd like to take the easy way out and taking it off of my bags. While the Faridah's leather is gorgeous to touch, but it can make the bag heavy even before I add my wallet, make-up bag, sunglasses, planner, DVDs (I always seem to have something to watch for work), etc.

Not unlike the See by Chloe bag I just talked about, this may be the reason the Carlos Falchi Baby Satchel caught my attention while browsing through Neiman Marcus's website. Go to NM.com and see how the model is ever so fabulously swinging this compact beauty (8" H x 8 1/2" W x 4" D). It makes me want to snatch the bag right out of her hand and run away, with not a care in the world. The shoulder strap will allow me to be completely hands-free, so that I can hold on to an ice cream cone in one hand and my husband's hand in the other (awwwww...or barf hehe). Made of microfiber rather than exotic skin like most of Carlos Falchi's bags, it should be easier to maintain and puts a little less dent on your bank account ($255...still not cheap, but it does take a "0" off of Carlos Falchi's typical prices). If you decide to call your local Neiman Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman to find one near you, make sure the sales associate knows "Baby Satchel" is the name of the bag. When I called, I was told they don't carry "diaper bags." FAIL.

(Update: Carlos Falchi just annonuced he will be putting the 37 years of bagmaking skills to creating man bags.)

Image: Courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

See by Chloe l Patent Cutout Shoulder Bag

2009-02-11T18:07:00.004-08:00

We've been enjoying an unusually warm weather here in DC this week, and knowing this is something that will quickly fade away into memory (snow predicted by...Saturday), I've been trying to take advantage of it as much as I can. I definitely made myself take a walk during lunch break, though what I really wanted to do was to take the day off and go play outside. You know, lunch al fresco and then maybe a gallery or two, with some window shopping thrown in for good measure.

Let's say I had the liberty to do so (Confession: Quite frankly, I do. I have a pretty flexible schedule but I'm afraid once I fall off the wagon, I will never recover and one day you'll find me aimless wandering aisle 13 at the Target in Columbia Heights). On a day like this, I would like to take with me this cute and spring-like shoulder bag from See by Chloe. As you may know already, it's a more casual brand from Chloe, launched in 2001 to offer more affordable and everyday options for the fans of the venerable brand first created by Gaby Aghion. Since then, Chloe has been led by a number of iconic designers with strong vision, including Martine Sitbon (whose bags, as you know, I LOVE), Karl Lagerfeld, Phoebe Philo, Paulo Melim Andersson, and most recently, Hannah MacGibbon.

Quite frankly, the Paddington is not even close to being on my list of "It" bags (padlocks = not so much my favorite accessories), but some of the See by Chloe bags have been catching my eye here and there. Sure, this shoulder bag doesn't necessarily fall in the most refined or classic of categories, but certainly packs enough character to put a spring in your steps. I'm thinking a pair of skinny jeans with a buttery soft cotton T-shirt, and a pair of candy-colored Ray-Bans would compliment the bag perfectly (yes, you read that correctly - for me, the rest of the outfit compliments the bag, not the other way around). If you're in the mood for spring like I am, get one of these at Net-A-Porter for $400 and pick out something from your closet that will bring out one of many colors that peek out from the cutout pattern. And don't forget to call in sick! ;)

Photo Credit: Net-A-Porter.com.

Violet May London l Blackberry Purse and Lloyd Laptop Bag

2008-12-05T10:06:00.004-08:00

Upon receiving yet another fun email from the UK today, I think my secret Anglophila is rearing its head. When it comes to designer handbags, you bet my love knows no boundaries... I must confess that I'd never heard of Violet May until today, and am sorry that I've been missing out on their fabulous bags! Violet May was founded by Claire Collins, a British businesswoman who saw the lack of stylish handbags that would also accommodate today's lifestyle filled with all kinds of technology and gadgets. Yours truly is Exhibit A when it comes to not being able to leave the BlackBerry behind. Even if I were to attend an event wearing a dress literally stitched on me, I'd still somehow manage to sneak it in.

All of the Violet May products are handcrafted in Spain, and though I haven't seen one in person, I can already tell the painstaking efforts that go into the making of their bags and accessories. It's truly a perfect marriage of style and functionality. Take their signature BlackBerry purses, for example. At 17cm W x 12 cm H x 3.5cm D (Oh hello metrics, haven't seen you in a while - that's approximately 7" W x 5" H x 2" D), this is the perfect size for a clutch. Plus, it also features an inside pocket designated for, you guessed it, BlackBerry. The stunning colors to the right are called Anthracite, Pearl, and Cobalt Blue and is part of the Spring/Summer 2009 collection. At $390 it's not inexpensive, but if this clutch can carry my life (and it seems it can) from day to evening, it's a worthwhile investment. Can I has one now, puhleeeeze?!

Another gem from the Violet May collection is the Lloyd Laptop Bag. At first, the flamboyant silk taffeta decoration kind of threw me off. Laptop bags are supposed to be rugged and sturdy, and robin's egg blue silk is the farthest thing from it, no? Well, the shell of the case is indeed made to withstand an accidental bump here and there, but also incorporates an incredibly feminine and beautiful pink satin lining inside, as well as the said silk handle that moulds to the shoulder distributing the weight. I love, love, love. At 40cm W x 30cm H x 11cm D (16" W x 12" H x 4" D), it fits up to 16" laptops.

Check out Violet May London's brand new blog, and shop their fabulous collection online. Me thinks Wired or Lucky Magazine needs to feature some of these bags ASAP!

P.S. Here's an excellent interview with Claire Collins of Violet May London. Thanks to Pamela Pekerman, the BagTrends Bag Guru!

Images: Courtesy of Violet May London.

Harvey Nichols l 12 days of Christmas Shopping Sale!

2008-12-05T09:36:00.009-08:00

States side, I have been seeing so many amazing sales pop up at places like eLuxury, Bloomingdales, Saks, and Barneys, I think my eyeballs are going into a near spin. Self-discipline has been a mantra now I'm about to tattoo into the inside of my arms, if only to distract self from drool-worthy deals by inflicting pain (ew, did I really just write that?!).

Strong self-discipline is required of our friends over in the UK as well. For instance, try to resist the weekend sale that lovely folks from Harvey Nichols just alerted me about. Until this Sunday, December 7, Harvey Nichols is offering 25% off of Men and Women's fashion and accessories across all stores in the UK, as well as online. If I were to let myself go and indulge in this sale, here are my top picks:

Anya Hindmarch's Slade Shoulder Bag (regular price £660/$964 vs. sale price: £495/$723). You know how much I love Anya Hindmarch.
Lanvin's Small Frame Bag (regular price £1,040/$1,519 vs. sale price £780/$1,139). Well, it's a Lanvin. Need I say more? I mean, just look at the divine combination of navy satin + black velvet!
Mulberry's Maxi Mabel (regular price £995/$1,453 vs. sale price £746/$1,089). I've had my eyes on this one for a while now. Apparently the bright primary colors are making a comeback next spring/summer season, so this would be a perfect addition to anyone's closet.
Alexander McQueen's Pebble Elvie bag (regular price £1,085/$1,584 vs. sale price £813/$1,188). This is a little more hardcore than I'd usually like my bags, but it's as tame as Alexander McQueen can get for someone vanilla like moi.
Must...look...away... Can some of my UK readers go buy these so that I can live through you vicariously? Kthnxbi!!

Images: Courtesy of Harvey Nichols.

Guess Who Online? T.J. Maxx on Twitter and Blogger Meet-and-Greet

2008-12-05T08:51:00.003-08:00

For the inaugural post of "Guess Who's Online?" The Baggage Claim will be looking at what T.J. Maxx has been up to online, using social media to engage influential fashion bloggers and customers alike. I was pleasantly surprised upon first noticing TJ Maxx's presence on Twitter, when a fellow fashion blogger on that site gave a shoutout to @TJMaxx for the daily and hourly deals announced through the account. As you know, the type of handbags I usually talk about on The Baggage Claim are, shall we say, guaranteed to break most of our bank accounts. By looking at the type of bags I pick, you'd think I'm a millionaire with a closet filled with designers handbags. I do give in and splurge once in a while, but like many ladies out there, I wasn't born rich and don't really see myself getting there anytime soon (still buying those lottery tickets though). That's why this blog is a type of online therapy for me. I can browse, click, and scroll to fulfill my bag fantasies, and it doesn't cost me a dime. And when I do spend my money, I spend it well and wisely, by almost never paying full price (even at Saks or Barneys, thanks to wonderful resources like Grechen's Closet). Now you understand my undying love for places like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls.

The other thing about discount stores like T.J. Maxx that I love is the pure, inexplicable thrill of the treasure hunt appeal of the shopping experience. As @TJMaxx said a couple of days ago, every T.J. Maxx store receives over 10,000 different merchandise every single week. This statistic will most likely induce massive headaches among many of my friends, whose faces turn green at the mere sight of unruly racks where XS pair of Juicy Couture hoodie is shamelessly rubbing fabric, side by side, with last season's Large MaxStudio wrap dress. Moi, on the other hand, I can feel my blood rushing at the thought of discovering hidden treasure, buried deeply beneath the piles. How else could I have scored a gorgeous Michael Kors studded satchel in powder blue back in 2003 (60% off the original price) on a graduate student's negative salary? I sometimes go "window" shopping just to find that treasure du jour, only to put it back on the rack, just for the rush. Who says all women are gatherers??

Yeah, I know. Some may consider this a problem but since this is all very entertaining for you (right?), I think my crazy shopping habit serves a certain purpose. In fact, every compliment I get on my shoes or clothes is a testament to the hidden potentials of bargain hunting, as I haven't paid full price on anything in a long time.

If the thought of having to plow through the merchandise still gives you a headache, don't just take my words. Hear it straight from fifteen influential bloggers who got to spend a day at the T.J. Maxx and Marshalls headquarters in Boston and find all kinds of goodies at deeply discounted prices:

Nichelle Gainer from 55 Secret Street
Stephanie Rahlfs from Adventures in the Stiletto Jungle
Lindsay Ginn from Broke and Beautiful
Angela Shultis from Budget Fashionista
Diana Baros from The Budget Babe
Adriana Nova from The Fashion Bomb
Aly Walansky from iVillage/SheKnows
Stacy DeBroff from Mom Central
Ike Onyewuenyi from My Fashion Life
Wendy Lam from Nitrolicious
Lauren Dimet Waters from Second City Style
Anna Basham from Shoe Smitten
Katja Burnett from Style Hive
Angie and Greg Cox from You Look Fab

When I first heard about the event through @ShoeSmitten, a Twitter friend of mine who participated (yeah I have Twitter friends - call me a nerd), I couldn't wait to hear more as I secretly nursed pangs of jealousy. During the day-long tour, these lucky bloggers met with Karen Coppola, Senior VP of Marketing; Laura McDowell, Manager of Media Relations; as well as Michale Macmillan, President of T.J.Maxx and Marshalls. They offered the bloggers a look at the behind-the-scenes operations and shared how discount stores often get mired in a misconception that the quality of their products are lower than department stores. The meeting also consisted of a themed game titled the “The Price Is Right” where the bloggers had to guess the price of merchandise from T.J. Maxx in order to win it, as well as a "Splurge vs. Steal" fashion show. The bloggers got a fabulous trip and some great clothes out of it. What about T.J. Maxx? Well, they have gained some strong voices online who are talking about their own experiences of the brand and its stores, and even holding post-visit contests to amplify awareness among other consumers. Through reader participation in these contests, T.J. Maxx also got some valuable feedback on how T.J. Maxx can improve their shopping experience.

T.J. Maxx also has a social shopping community on their website, in which members can create their "Fashion Finds" and have it scored by other members of the community. There's also a handful of bloggers who talk about store-specific deals and finds, and according to the website, these are "Inventory Hunters" who are either "paid or unpaid T.J. Maxx advocates who have been specifically selected to post brand alerts for stores in specific areas." It's an intriguing idea to have these online advocates report on products they find from all over the country. Having drastically different inventory week-to-week, or store-to-store, is certainly an advantage for brick-and-mortar shoppers, but also a challenge when it comes to trying to attract those who tend to shop online. If the T.J. Maxx bloggers can keep this up, the collection of resulting "finds" could be an interesting mosaic of people's shopping needs and wants, something similar to the photos some Amazon.com customers upload along with their product reviews. I do hope that the offline appeal of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls can successfully translate online, with the help of strong advocates like the fifteen bloggers who were invited to the Boston event. For more detailed accounts of the day, click on the respective links to the blogs above.

Image: Courtesy of T.J. Maxx.

Introducing Baggage Carousel 9 l Guess Who's Online?

2008-12-02T20:12:00.013-08:00

It's not everyday that a sudden inspiration brings me out of my slumber and puts me back in front of my computer. And we're talking about me, who loves and cherishes sleep more than anything, perhaps even more than (gasp) bags. So you know I'd have to love the idea - at least for the time being - if I actually got myself out of bed from the warm comfort of my bed, in case it might have been a dream and disappears into thin air by the time morning rolls around. Lucky for you and me, tonight's inspiration is about The Baggage Claim.

As you know, I've worked in social media marketing and PR in the past, and continue to do some consulting (which, I constantly misspell as "consluting") in this area. I am, by no means, an expert, but still very much intrigued and fascinated by ways people communicate with each other through new online tools and communities (hence this blog, too). For instance, as mentioned previously, I love Twitter as a place brimming with personal and professional networking opportunities. I've met all kinds of independent handbag designers on Etsy, as well as online editors and PR/marketing professionals in the fashion industry through Twitter. I've also joined up a handful of fashion- and style-oriented social networks such as Lookbook.nu, Style Hive, and Polyvore, as well as a bunch of social shopping sites like Gilt, ideeli, and Rue La La. I'm in those places mostly for my personal interests, to check out what other people are wearing/buying and how much cheaper I can get the same looks. That said, I do find that my personal and professional interests sometimes converge, and I remain curious about how people in the fashion industry - as brands, independent designers, stores, or consumers - are engaging in social media spaces.

While I have previously addressed some of these topics in the "Baggage Carousel 2 - Handbag 2.0" series, I'm going to start a new series, "Baggage Carousel 9 - Guess Who's Online?" This series will be dedicated to analyzing a specific brand/designer/retailer's participation in social media, highlighting a specific marketing/PR campaign or ongoing presence/participation. I've had many inspirations after which to model this series. Virginia Miracle, my former boss at Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, coined the "Brands Worthy of a Weekend" series on her blog, Marketing Environmentalism, inspired by the amazing community she put together for Fiskars while at Brains on Fire. Chris Thilk writes impressively thorough and insightful case studies of online movie marketing campaigns on his must-read blog, Movie Marketing Madness. And last but not least, Imran Amed, my blogger crush and role model, runs the "Fashion 2.0" series on his blog, The Business of Fashion, highlighting the most notable developments at the intersection of fashion and the Internet. In citing these inspirations - rather, aspirational examples - I hope to be able to contribute a fraction of the insights Virginia, Chris, and Imran bring to the table to each of their respective industries/interest areas. Well, if the whole "for the greater good" part doesn't work out, at least I'll have some fun with it.

I've got a couple of specific case studies brewing in my mind, but I think it's definitely my bedtime now. Stay tuned!

Image: Courtesy of Modern Mechanix blog.

Salvatore Ferragamo l Manhattan 1 Briefcase

2008-12-02T15:58:00.002-08:00

At at time when the economy is so volatile and retirement seems like a fantasy-like state one would only hope to find in Never-Never-Land, it seems almost wrong for me to be drooling over a bag that costs $1,900. No bailout package would ever take pity on me so I can buy a bag. Well, a man bag, that is. When I started with the man bag posts, I didn't think I would actually find anything I'd absolutely love. After all, they are man bags, and they're really not for me so it doesn't matter, right?

Wrong. I do want my man to look good and when I first laid my eyes upon this Salvatore Ferragamo Manhattan 1 briefcase, I could totally see Mr. Baggage Claim swinging this beauty on his way to work. Being a lawyer isn't necessarily the most glamorous work, I tell ya, but at least he can look good doing it. What do I love about this briefcase? Through many inspections of briefcases, I realized that top zips are much more convenient and practical than the flap tops. While the flap tops tend to look classier and more formal, I just can't imagine carrying a briefcase around by its top handle (which is typically attahed to the said flap top) and then awkwardly cradling the briefcase to fish for something inside should the need arise. I also like the abundance of side zipped pockets for documents and folders lawyers are known to carry around.

The only remaining question (other than the fact that I don't have that much cash just lying around under my bank of mattress) is whether or not it comes with a shoulder strap. The Manhattan 1 briefcase comes in hickory (fancy people's word for brown) or nero (Italian people's word for black) and is available at Neiman Marcus for $1,900. Honey, I love you, but not that much. Unless I win the lottery.

Image: Courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

Stuff Your Bag, Save A Life

2008-11-12T16:12:00.005-08:00

As though I needed any more excuses to buy big handbags, then stuff it with everything I own, it turns out they can also double as a bulletproof shield and save your life, too. No joke.

When a gunman fired a shot at Elizabeth Pittenger during a robbery attempt, it was her over-sized, overstuffed handbag that saved her life.

Seriously. Watch.

Take a look at her bag with the bullet hole:

MSNBC further reports, "Pittenger had to get a new handbag, as the one she was carrying has been kept as evidence, along with the destroyed calculator, the umbrella with a shattered handle and the sunglasses case with a bullet impression in it."

Ummm...Marc Jacobs, I think maybe you should send this girl a new handbag. She deserves one, don't you think? ;) If I were Dolce and Gabbana, I would also throw in a new pair of sunglasses, too! Sure, fighting an armed robber may not have been the best idea, but she's got a second chance in life, all thanks to her bag.

Photo Credit: MSNBC.com. Thanks to my friend Arif for alerting me of this groundbreaking news.

Martine Sitbon l Patchwork Leather Tote

2008-11-11T05:35:00.002-08:00

It looks like the sale season is in full gear everywhere, and I'm not sure how long I can resist the temptation. There are bags calling my name out everywhere. I might as well be ignoring a basket full of hungry and whimpering puppies. At least that's how I feel right now - yes, call me shallow for comparing some overpriced, inanimate objects to genuinely vulnerable creatures. I know it and will own up to it.

The one "pup" that especially stands out among its peers is Martine Sitbon's patchwork leather handbag at ShopBop. You all know already how much I love her bags. I still don't own one, however. When I laid my eyes on this latest find, what caught my attention immediately was the amazing contrast between the strong, patent black handles and the delicate, beige patchwork leather. I can see myself rocking that bag with a pleated wool skirt and vibrantly colored tights that seem to be the rage this season. My only concern about this bag, as has been with other Martine Sitbon bags, is that the leather looks almost too delicate. Having already dirtied up my patent beige Jas M.B. traveller's tote, I'm feeling a little bit nervous about getting another light-colored bag only to love it to death (read: ruin it) after a few uses. But at just $243.60 (marked down from the original price of $348), it is one pitiful puppy that seems desperate in its quest for a home (mine?).

The patchwork leather tote measures in at 9"H x 16"L x 6"D with a 5" strap drop, and is currently on sale at ShopBop.com.

Photo credit: ShopBop.com

Saks Fifth Avenue Begins Online Sale

2008-11-10T12:04:00.009-08:00

Saks Fifth Avenue began their online only private sale, with lots and lots of amazing handbags and shoes slashed as much as 40% off of their original prices. I can't believe my eyes as to the caliber of bags I'm seeing. In my experience, Saks online selection is typically much less robust than in stores, but this sale is making eat my own words.

I want ALL of the following:

Lambertson Treux's Medium Christie Monte Carlo Bag:

Salvatore Ferragamo's Sartoria Pebble Calfskin Clutch:

Valentino's purple patent Histoire bag, which I've previously talked about here and there:

Yves Saint Laurent's Large Tribute Flat Tote:

Yves Saint Laurent's Majorelle Medium Bag:

Zac Posen's Greenzluxe Puala Clutch:

The same sale begins in Saks stores nationwide tomorrow. If I had an assistant, I would tell him/her right about now to clear my schedule.

Image: Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Chloe l Large Joan Bucket Bag

2008-10-28T19:46:00.003-07:00

When I first spotted the Joan Bucket Bag from Chloe on Saks.com, it made me think of the HBO Sports special I just watched over the weekend, which was in anticipation of Joe Calzaghe vs. Roy Jones, Jr. fight. "Boxing??!" you ask? Well, I have no intention of watching that fight, nor do I enjoy watching any boxing matches, but HBO sure did a clever job of drawing out the human interest stories out of the two athletes. So I watched it. Don't judge. The point is, doesn't this bucket bag look like something a boxer would sling around? I guess one could say, it's nothing but a gym bag. At over $1,500, you'd better not put any smelly socks in this one.

Despite its initial "gym bag" vibe, I am strangely drawn to this non-chalantly slouchy bag. First point of attraction is the combination of muted gray, green, and black, which accomplishes a rather elegant look for such a shapeless bag. I can see myself going a little bit Gossip Girl with this one and wear with a fitted blazer + mini skirt ensemble, though I'm a few years beyond being able to pull off a private school girl look. The second point of attraction, of course, is the soft calf skin out of which the bag is made. You already know I'm a sucker for all things soft, so let's skip that one. Last but not least point of attraction is the big hardware, appropriately matched by a huge tassle on the outside zipper. My only concern is how much that big lobster claw closure weighs. Knowing Chloe's pentchant for heavy, oversized hardware, I'm afraid the bag's going to knock me out (ha ha I'm soooo clever) before I even put anything in it. Give me a shoutout if you've tried this bag out in person and feel that a) the hardware does not weigh as much as the Paddingtons or b) the hardware does add the weight of a small animal to the bag but you're fine with it and would like to call me out for being a wuss. ;) With a 15" shoulder strap and measuring in at 16½"W X 19"H X 4"D, the Joan Bucket Bag is available at Saks.com for $1,670.

Image: Courtesy of Saks.com.

Jas M.B. l Wings Traveller Tote (Part II)

2008-10-03T15:58:00.002-07:00

As you may have noticed, I've been neglecting The Baggage Claim for quite sometime. Days and weeks went by since my post (hang head in shame) and yet I am surprised to receive many encouraging emails and Tweets about the blog on a daily basis from old and new readers. I have been working on a few other projects for the past few months, including a new blog, moving to a new apartment, going to Denver for the Democratic National Convention, and traveling in Eastern Europe for our postponed honeymoon/husband's bar trip (still in denial about being back). Needless to say, it's been a busy few months, but that doesn't mean my obsession over handbags has cooled down. In fact, I've been connecting with other passionate fashion lovers and forward-thinking brands on Twitter (I'm @minjae), which has been a tremendous source of networking, information-sharing, and even friendship. Touched by the wholehearted support of my Twitter friends, I return to The Baggage Claim today with a story about the Jas M.B. Wings Traveller Tote.

Some of you might recall that I have already talked about this tote among one of my earliest posts. Well, after having carried one on my shoulders across Budapest, Vienna, and Prague for nearly a month, I am happy to report that Jas M.B.'s Wings Traveller Tote is the most versatile handbag I've ever had the pleasure to take on a trip. Made out of cream patent leather (Barneys still has them available online - don't copy me! :) my Jas M.B. tote was a bit difficult to keep it clean, the neutral color went with virtually every item of clothing I took on the trip. I'm talking about anything from shorts and a tanktop in Budapest, where we were seeing record heat of 94 degrees with hardly any airconditioning anywhere, to jeans and a $15 khaki green jacket I had to purchase in Prague due to unseasonably cold weather (yeah, a total packing fail on my part).

Aside from letting me to travel in style, this tote also allowed us to go sightseeing completely prepared. The Rick Steves book on Eastern Europe was great for no gimmicks, straight-talk tips on how to see/do what you want to see/do, but not necessarily the Zagat guide. And you know we love eating good food - who doesn't? So we supplemented it with books written by ex-pats, with recommendations about local restaurants and shops. That's two books to carry on any given day, plus the phrasebook for each of the languages spoken on this three-country trip. My husband and I joked that I was the "mule" carrying all of our guidebooks, cameras (one digital, one 35mm), umbrellas, bottles of water, and whatever cash we withdrew for the day. Sounds like a backpack full of goodies, right?

Well, I just hate lugging backpacks or any "sporty" bags on my trips, because my inability to pronounce anything in Hungarian (or...simply being Asian...HA) already identified me in these countries as a tourist. I don't need to give the pickpockets another to reason to put their fishy little hands anywhere near my valuables. Since the tote came with two detachable straps (Hallelujah!), I was able to use the more sturdy, canvas strap during the day excursions, and switch over to the shorter one for nights out on the town. At many of the most touristy sites - like the Treasury collection of state jewels in Vienna or the Charles Bridge in Prague - the canvas strap came in handy for another reason: I could simply turn the tote around and carry it on my side, instead of sporting a backpack on my front as though it were my first born (yeah I'm a real backpack snob).

Even though I failed to pack a proper fall jacket or a pair of boots, I have to give myself a pat on the back for picking out this tote as my main handbag on this trip. Now, the only thing I have to figure out is how to get some of the stains that came off of my clothes and transferred onto the milky white patent leather (womp womp). The first stain was the hardest to take - it was from a bright orange tank top - but as the weeks went by, the overall effect isn't so bad though it would be nice to get it cleaned up a bit. Some people say I should clean it with Windex, others offer milk (whole or skim?) as the solution. If you guys have any suggestions, please feel free to leave me a comment!

Image: Courtesy of yours truly, MKO.

Shop Treat? Yes, Please!

2008-07-06T07:26:00.002-07:00

Yes, it took me only a year. Perhaps it was best for my wallet anyway. I first read about Treat, a sample sale store in Old Town Alexandria, in Lucky Magazine earlier this year. I made a mental note in my head, but haven't had a chance to check it out until yesterday, when I stumbled upon it while strolling through the neighborhood with my brother. When I turned the doorknob to open the magical robin egg blue door, a whole new world of wardrobe and accessories opened up. One of a kind pieces picked from 3.1 Phillip Lim to Jessup and Hayden-Harnett were on sale at significantly reduced prices, leaving me speechless and shop-crazed. Impeccably edited pieces, many of them in my size, were calling my name out left and right.

The timing of my visit was pretty fortuitous, as Treat is turning one this week. To celebrate, the shop will be throwing a carnival-style party this weekend from July 11-13, complete with cotton candy, popcorn, cupcakes, Italian ices, and of course, champagne starting at 5pm each night. Everything in the store will be on sale for additional 20%, including already reduced sale items, and no party would be complete without giveaways and drawings for gift certificates. Mark your calendars and get ready to treat yourself to a few things because, clearly, you deserve it.

Image: Courtesy of Treat.

Final Sale at Gilt.com!!!

2008-07-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

One of my mom's friends has a hilarious yet poignant way of putting things into perspective. For instance, when encountering a great bargain, she informs my mom that as a shopper is it her "duty" to take this insanely marked down merchandise off of the store's hands, so that it can go on with the next season's business. This lady has not only mastered the school of "spend money to save money," but has also taken on the activity of a shopper's duty as a noble cause.

In that spirit, I'd like to be your enabler today and let you know about a Gilt.com sale on an epic scale. Starting at noon EDT today, Wednesday, July 2 and lasting for 48 hours only, any remaining items from their previous sales will be on sale for up to 90% off. I really don't mean to sound like the dude who preaches OxyClean and millions of other products for $19.99 on your cable around the clock, but I really can't help it! Just look at the list of 25 or so designers, whose clothes, shoes, handbags, and accessories will be up for grabs in less than an hour from now:

AKA
Alejandro Ingelmo
Allegra Hicks
Alvin Valley
Amrita Singh
Asprey
Badgley Mischka
Chaiken
Charles Nolan
Charlotte Ronson
Cynthia Steffe
Cynthia Vincent
Development
Dolce and Gabbana
Earnest Sewn
Edun
Elizabeth Showers
Erica Davies
Erin Snow
Gryson
Gurhan
Hollywould
John Hardy
Just Cavalli
Kaia Peterka
Kate Spade shoes
KORS
Lambertson Truex
Leigh Bantivoglio
Luca Luca
Madison Harding
Michael Kors
Mint by Jodi Arnold
Missoni
M Missoni
Natori
Notte By Marchesa
Olivia Harris
Rachel Roy
Randi Rahm
Robert Marc
Sari Gueron
Selima Optique
Shoshanna
Sur Evolution
Suzie Kondi
Syla
Temple St Clair
Tibi
Valentino
Vivienne Tam
Zac Posen

...and scene. I'm spent. Need I go on? I don't care how nice the weather is out there today - if I were you, I'd plan for an undisturbed hour-long lunch break inside, at your desk, and put your search and destroy skills to test. If you are not a member of Gilt.com, you can still join by clicking here. No more asking, what have you done for me lately?

Image: Courtesy of Gilt.com.

Givenchy l Tejus Handle Medium Nightingale

2008-07-02T02:58:00.000-07:00

I've wanted a Givenchy Nightingale ever since the style first came out a few season ago and subsequently seen on Reese Witherspoon, among other celebs. I even made it a point one winter to make a trip up to NYC just so that I can go to Barneys and spend some quality time with several versions of the Nightingale, modeling self in front of the mirror (eventually, I had to leave, empty-handed). I have not been able to bring one home yet (the hopeful "yet" is what gets me through the day, ladies), and though it seemed for a while that Givenchy was taking the style to some strange direction, I am happy to report that this latest Tejus Handle Medium Nightingale is just as beautiful as the first versions with which I fell in love.

Though I fear I would quickly dirty up a pristine white bag such as this, I can't help but wanting one, especially because of the punchy Tejus handles, a type of lizard skin. I think this bag epitomizes the type of logo-free chic many of us want to achieve nowadays, owing to its free form and simple yet elegant design. The removable shoulder strap extends long enough to tuck the bag under the shoulder, but not so long as to be able to wear it across the body (believe me, I tried it during my multi-hour visit at Barneys, to humorous and embarrassing result). Inside the bag is pretty austere too, with one zipped pocket and a couple of open pockets for cell phone, etc. Measuring in at 12.5" H x 19" W x 6" D, the Nightingale should hold a wallet, book, small water bottle, and perhaps even a make-up bag comfortably, though as I keep telling myself, one should not stuff a bag just because everything fits inside. I'm not sure when I'm going to be able to fork over $1,995 and actually own one of these babies, but I really hope Givenchy continues to produce this style and experiment with more colors and exotic leather (oops, not necessarily advocating animal cruelty or anything). For a brief history on Givenchy, travel back in time and check out my post on the Givenchy Clarabelle.

Image: Courtesy of Barneys New York.