Bag Snob

Top 5 Wild Wallets: Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

2012-02-24T01:58:05Z

We give our plight for the right bag so much attention, the search for an equally stunning wallet often goes by the wayside. Think of your wallet as the wild little sister to your tote or top-handle: it may be completely different, but it should still be complimentary. And perhaps more outgoing. When you carry a muted bag, toss in a noteworthy wallet to spice things up; these wallets are all long and roomy, ideal for jazzing up a day bag. Even if your wallet is empty, it can still lift your spirits!

1) Nina Ricci Liane Continental Wallet: Four words: rose gold, metallic, snakeskin. Need I say more? Nothing will set off the lining of your bag like a flash of this spectacular shimmer. At Barneys New York for $635.

2) Marc Jacobs Cobra Deluxe Zip-Around Wallet: Bright coral and highly decorative, this is so stimulating, I almost want to carry it as a clutch. Loads of compartments and exotic cobra-skin make it a must. At Barneys New York for $750.

3) Mulberry Travel Continental Lizard-Effect Leather Wallet: Mean and green, this highly textural wallet does lizard-embossed leather with to subtle camouflage effects. Bold hardware drives the impact home. On Net-a-Porter for $500.

4) Marni Peptite Zip-Around Wallet: If Marni’s wildly geometric new bags are too much for you, consider this peppy touch. Just a tad tribal, in wallet form, you won’t risk committing to a trend. At Barneys New York for $495.

5) Yves Saint Laurent Charms Patent Wallet: Simply charming! Textured, poppy-red patent leather is optimistic. With “love” and “YSL” logo charms, it’s flirty and sweet. At Neiman Marcus for $475.

London Fashion Week Roundup: Burberry Prorsum vs. Mulberry

2012-02-23T22:35:38Z

London Fashion Week Roundup: Burberry Prorsum vs. Mulberry

London Fashion Week was a mixed bag (no pun intended), especially when it came to the two most indelibly British brands around: Burberry Prorsum, representing the old guard reinvented, and Mulberry, the fresh, young house aiming to cement its role as classic luxury label. Some from each was really solid and stimulating; other bags left much to be desired. Here, my roundup of the fierce and the frumpy:

The Good:

Burberry Prorsum: Their slim portfolio bag introduced an interesting use of patchwork. Pared down yet colorful, there was a surprising lack of the hardware the brand is known for, and an unexpected kaleidoscope vibe.

Mulberry: They upgraded their trademarks, like the Alexa, with a fun zig-zag motif, bold color on the trompe l’oeil (love!) and showed a vivacious use of white and an invigorating way with color. Python-embossed leather and satiny pony-hair invite you to spice up your fall wardrobe with a bold pumpkin-hued bag.

The Bland:

Burberry Prorsum: It’s not that this tote is necessarily bad – it’s just completely boring. Brown-on-brown suede stripes don’t exactly spark a fire. I’m waiting for this bag to grow on me, but I might just lose interest and forget all about it.

As for this crazy, quilted number, I have no idea what is going on here. It looks like a whole lot: Chanel meets Marc meets the English countryside meets a doorknocker…all gone awry.

Mulberry: The much-hyped Del Rey bag is a complete snooze-fest. Sure the clean duffel makes for a timeless shape, but it lacks personality. Especially for a bag named after such a controversial young star. They need to jazz it up and then get back to me.

Gucci Fall 2012 Collection: The New Black

2012-02-23T14:06:28Z

It’s time to enter the darkness. What does it take to put a stop to the colorblocking addiction? (I’ll admit, lately I’m the worst culprit of all .) Nothing more than Frida Ginnani’s regal, elegant, dramatic touch. “Let’s go back to black,” she is saying with an emphatic hand and brilliant vision. I have always been a big fan of “black on black on black,” bags included, and I can’t remember the last time pitch-dark satchels have looked more appealing!

Set against Gucci’s delicate yet strong mélange of tinted velvets (ebony was imbued with hints of midnight green and shimmering bronze), mink-inlaid chiffon, deep lips, and pale skin, were roomy top-handles, structured hobos, and pert clutches in shiny crocodile, semi-distressed leathers, and three-dimensional brocades to match many of the jodhpur pants and smoking jackets. The genius here is the way Frida has laid on the texture and maintained an attention to detail that is almost unparalleled. These luxe bags do their job: they finish off an indulgent yet tasteful collection, enhancing the sense of mystery with finesse.

Maiyet Ceres Clutch: Truth in Harmony

2012-02-23T14:06:57Z

Maiyet’s new collection is as strong as the company’s incredible story, and that is saying a lot. Founded by Paul van Zyl and Daniel Lubetzky, two human-rights and peace pioneers, they have the right motives for going into the fashion business. Their dream of creating peace in the world by offering economic opportunity to the impoverished may sound like just that – a dream – but with a collection that’s making my world spin, I can see it becoming a reality. It’s wonderful to have great intensions, but without proper execution, the end goal can’t be realized.

As true visionaries when it comes to both ideals and design, the duo has come up with the ultra-appealing Ceres clutch. A simple flap clutch with an ingenious closure (a pull-tab that looks anything but perfunctory) and smartly branded logo on the bar under the flap: minimal but in no way subtle. With simplistic lines, it’s clean and understated while it also sparks lightning when you look at it! This clutch has the It-factor – this kind of design requires real talent.

It’s no surprise that the word “maiyet” is Egyptian for truth and harmony. We all want to feel good and look good. In this case, you don’t even compromise for altruism. Buy it for vanity! At Barneys New York for $1,250.

Pair with: Hop on the asymmetrical-hem trend with Maiyet’s circle skirt. Partially pleated with a baby train, this silk mini can go anywhere, from brunch to parties. At Barneys New York for $495.

Rochas Ponyhair Karina Tote: Daily Decadence

2012-02-23T05:30:24Z

I can very safely say animal print is not going anywhere. For Fall 2012, we saw animal treatments all over, on everything from metallic trousers to a parade of ocelot bags. The good times are definitely back and we are going to relish in the decadence, guilt-free.

But Rochas’ Karina tote isn’t actual pony-hair – it’s got the look, but it’s just printed on leather. Which is not quite so decadent, but a it’s whole lot more comfortable when it comes to a functional tote. With no itching or worrying about accidental distressing of the hair, this flat and slender bag is all yours for daily use. The design: simple but not too simple. The light drawstring effect breaks up that long north-to-south shape, and the outside zipper pocket takes the frustration out of shuffling around for things, at the bottom of a lengthy tote.

Enter the decadence: so it’s a bit on the pricy side, but that doesn’t detract from my love of this bag that will take you from now into the new fall season in style. At Barneys New York for $2,010.

Pair with: Keep it cool and practical with J. Brand’s Zooey blazer, out of their new ready-to-wear collection. A linen-cotton blend that’s trimmed in leather means multiple-season wear. On Net-a-Porter for $925.

Mulberry Fall 2012 Collection: Monster’s Ball

2012-02-22T19:11:53Z

For Fall 2012, Mulberry would like to take you where the wild things are. Literally – the latest collection was inspired by the children’s book and movie of the same name. The idea: “mysterious expeditions through faraway lands.” The venue: Claridge’s Ballroom, which was set up to resemble a monster’s den, completely with supremely furry chairs for all.

Tiger prints and zigzags and fur galore! Not only did Mulberry take us on a kooky journey that’s high on fun (no somberness here!), they also introduced us to their newest bag: the Del Rey, named after Mulberry’s fresh-faced muse, Lana, the buzzed-about new singer whose style is a mix of old Hollywood glamour and hip-hop fabulous. The leather bag is surprisingly streamlined and practical, though it comes in wild exotic-effects: metallic python, fur-print, sparkly crocodile. The classic padlock has been reinvented into a miniature gold turtle.

Even more playful the trompe l’oeil Maisie – Mulberry used heat-molded technology to pay a nod to the brand’s traditional features, while the quintessential Alexa got a (sometimes colorful) zigzag makeover.

Shimmering leathers turn up the allure – I love how their shade of green python-embossed leather resembles mermaid fins – but Mulberry is also big on white this season. Or as they call it, “snowball.” Heavy suedes and saddle leather rounded the collection. It’s perky and classic, it’s lighthearted and substantial: Mulberry is proving themselves to work well with contradictions.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Werdie Color-Block Leather Shoulder Bag: It’s a Snap

2012-02-22T05:02:29Z

The perfect vacation bag is a carefree yet practical pick-me-up that carries your essentials and goes with everything in your suitcase. Marc by Marc Jacobs nailed it with the Werdie. Taupe and dark navy are neutral enough, but the bright pop of blue will coordinate with your summertime wardrobe.

And something about the shape says “world-traveler.” A crossbody option is essential for globe-trotting, and Jacobs’ loose camera-case inspiration is actually – shocking! – great for cameras. The front pockets will allow you to slip your little digital in and out with ease, so you won’t miss a shot. Whether you’re exploring the streets of Barcelona or tackling a theme park with the kids, this bag will be ready. It’s super-cute and easy on the wallet, too – so feel free to stash a few new souvenirs inside. On Net-a-Porter for $330.

Pair with: Bring along T by Alexander Wang’s hooded sweater, perfect for brisk airplanes and breezy evenings. The perky lemon color will be an energetic contrast against the aqua strap. On ShopBop for $170.

Versace Two-Tone Eyelet-Studded Leather Shoulder Bag: Happily Never After

2012-02-22T05:00:08Z

Picture this twisted fairy tale: if Little Bo Peep ditched her sheep and became a porn star, this would be her bag. There’s something at once vulgar and childish about this pink purse.

Considering how streamlined and polished Versace’s ready-to-wear has been at Donatella’s helm, it just doesn’t make sense to keep making bags like this. The clothes are so right (the right mix of shock and allure), but everything is wrong about this two-tone eyelet bag. The shape and color scheme: not so different from those of Disney princess costumes. The grommets look oddly out of place on such a sweet confection, and let’s not even get into the Medusa-like tassel.

I’d keep my mouth shut if it cost $40 (as in a Disney gift-shop price), but at almost two grand I must point out the obvious. Sleeping Beauty might approve, but call me the evil queen – I just can’t condone this one. On Net-a-Porter for $1,895.

Christian Louboutin Loubis Angel Clutches: Angels and Demons

2012-02-20T03:15:08Z

Inspired by a web series Christian Louboutin created for his website, entitled Le Carrosse Noir (meaning the black carriage) about a group of showgirls who kick butt, enter the wild shape of the Angel clutch. It looks like it could almost take off into flight.

But I’m torn between matte python and embroidered suede ($2,095): I love the detailing of the suede; the embroidery has spirited Indian inspiration. But the color isn’t thrilling me the way it should – it’s so bright, it almost cheapens the effect. Is it sensory overload? The color could be surprisingly versatile, but lets not mince words: this is a eye-catcher that should not – and does not want – blend in.

And then there’s the stunning, sleek matte python variation ($2,195) – so elegant. Louboutin’s angular rouching of lush snakeskin makes the exotic skin take on a velvety look. Either way, the winged edges add to the fascinating show for the senses, one that you won’t want to take your eyes off of.

CHLOÉ Sally Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag: Color Pop Into Spring

2012-02-20T01:57:51Z

I’m a big fan of bags I can wear during the day with a casual outfit but still can translate easy to night to save me from running like a lunatic around my apartment right before I go out the door stuffing money, cards and lipstick into a bag last minute. This pop of color by Chloé has gold metal trim making it glam yet is simple and sophisticated making it wearable for daytime. For a day date, I would pair this with a pair of A.L.C. soft blue pants and a Miu Miu ruffled top with a pair of Chloé ballet flats. For nighttime, I would put on this adorable Elizabeth and James dress and some YSL wedges and have a perfect springy outfit for a night on the town. This bag is fun yet dignified and can be worn with jeans or a gown. Sounds like a smart buy to me!

Net-a-Porter for $1,695

Top 5 Glossies: Patent (Not) Pending

2012-02-20T01:57:37Z

After a long winter, bring on the shine! Not sunshine, silly. I’m talking about patent-leather shine, the gleaming texture that will look lovely in April showers. Whether you opt for a cheerful bright or classic neutral, squeaky-clean high gloss will bring brilliant texture to any outfit.

1) Chloé Madeleine Patent-Leather Duffle Bag: Seafoam is popping up everywhere this season. It’s no surprise – the color makes for an early spring pick-me-up with a quirky twist, especially in the form of a casual duffle. On Net-a-Porter for $2,395.

2) Fendi Patent-Leather Pouchette: Something suddenly looks so brand-new about their trademark double-F. The artistic, brushed gold-and-silver spin certainly doesn’t hurt. At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,030.

3) 3.1 Phillip Patent Pashli Satchel: Lim’s bags made a big showing outside the tents of New York Fashion Week, and it’s easy to see why. Accessibly priced high shine goes practical with smart city edge. At Barneys New York for $895.

4) Burberry Prorsum Patent-Leather Shoulder Bag: A burst of lime looks smooth in minimalist patent leather. Toss it over monochrome day looks of black, tan, or white or contrast it against fuchsia, aqua, or lilac. On My Theresa for $815 (from $1,345).

5) Madame Lanvin Shoulder Bag: Architectural lines, hints of geometric hardware, and a boxy shape look just right in burnished leather. Ladylike meets edgy with real finesse. At Neiman Marcus for $2,485.

REMINDER! FEBRUARY Giveaway: TWO “Meant to B” Ostrich Messenger Bags!

2012-02-20T17:33:51Z

In honor of the second month of the year, we are so excited to give not one, but two fabulous ostrich messenger bags to TWO winners! Meant to B is an obsession-worthy line offering gorgeous bags in every shade of ostrich-skin under the sun. A big thank you to designer and founder Bernice Angelique Oehl for generously offering up two of her luscious bags! Growing up in South Africa, she garnered a deep appreciation for ostrich – where her designs are handcrafted by artisans. And now two snobs have the chance to make Meant to B their own!
International readers are welcome. Remember: to enter, you must sign up for the newsletter again.

CLICK HERE to enter.

Jérôme Dreyfuss Carlos Expandable Leather-Trimmed Canvas Tote: Week In, Week Out

2012-02-20T01:56:38Z

It looks like wife Isabel Marant’s sense of unfussy Paris cool is rubbing off on Jérôme Dreyfuss. Not that he didn’t have it to begin with – this bag is just a much more laid-back take than many of his colorful leopard and python shake-ups. But Jérôme is a designer who always keeps us on our toes.

This season, it feels like he is saying, “It’s time to chill out.” This linen-canvas blend comes in a cool, funky shape that’s a great casual piece for relaxed summer. Golden hardware fancies it up, while the trademark red, white, and blue zipper-pulls are in keeping with Dreyfuss’ sense of eclecticism. And you can expect this bag to have an eclectic life – this top-handle-to-shoulder style is also expandable, which is great for travel. From city to country (Isabel and Jérôme divide their time between Paris and a cabin in the woods), this dark linen is as cool as can be. Perhaps the most awesome touch: it comes with a mini-flashlight so you’ll never be fishing around for your belongings in the dark! On Net-a-Porter for $620.

Pair with: Show your styling prowess by taking Étoile Isabel Marant’s contrast-denim Guan shirt from the week (wear it with something unexpectedly polished) to Saturday afternoon (mix it up with super-dark indigo jeans). At Barneys New York for $435.

J. Mendel Fall 2012 Collection: No Introduction Necessary

2012-02-16T22:46:46Z

J. Mendel furs? Yes. J. Mendel dresses? Oh, yes. J. Mendel Bags?! Oh my god, YES, YES, YES. In case you couldn’t tell, I am very excited about J. Mendel’s first handbag collection.

What to wear with Fall 2012’s paneled alligator jackets, creamy winter whites, and chiffon miniskirts mounted with dégradé alpaca, Mongolian lamb, and long-hair goat? These bags are the perfect finishing touches for a full-on luxe look, from head-to-toe. Think of everything you love about their ready-to-wear, especially their latest collection – luscious fur, timelessly femme silhouettes, unforced glamour, nonchalant luxury – and picture it in the form of bags. Gilles Mendel has translated his sensibility flawlessly. Everything as chic and streamlined as you would expect.

Molded crocodile totes have been lined in butter soft alpaca and mink – there is something so decadent about fur on the inside of a bag. It turns it into a treasure chest of sorts, cementing the fact that your other belongs are as precious as the bag itself. I adore the way the alpaca fur barely peeks over the top of the bag, daring you to further investigate what lies beneath. For a more understated affair, they also introduced simple leather totes with little more than a subtle “M” logo detail as the trim on outer pocket. But how can you resist crocodile? Especially when it’s of this caliber; Mendel’s matte-black croc-skin quality is unbelievable (and this is from a girl addicted to Hermès croc). It’s safe to say Fall 2012 welcomes a game-changer on the bag scene.

Proenza Schouler Fall 2012 Collection: This Means War!

2012-02-16T20:09:14Z

With the concept of “protection” in mind, Jack and Lazaro sent a glorious fleet of Samurai warrior-girls down their cool, bare runway. Their weapons? A selection of bags, the likes of which we have never before seen from Proenza Schouler’s prolific accessories line. Bags that will make you say, “PS what?”

They were going for a look that is “Asian but in a New York way” – and they nailed it. What would be the perfect complement to crisp, oversized jackets of white cotton, full of angular lines to keep your eye stimulated; obi-sashed skirts and innovatively waxed woven leather; silk embroidery depicting traditional Japanese scenes of exotic birds; hard riding boots and mussed-up hair? Fur! But not fur in the plushy, fuzzy, snuggly sense.

This fur is hardcore – it looks like these warrior girls almost hunted their catch themselves. Deer and antelope skins right off the battlefield bring new meaning to terms like “clutch,” “duffel,” and “gym bag” – it was a brilliant move to keep the shapes classic and easy. Some with mohawks, others spotted, their naturalistic state is the perfect antidote to clothing, whether clean or embellished, so purposeful in its craftsmanship, so thoughtful in its treatment.

To counter the fur: beautifully devised bags of black leather, much of it piped with contrasting shades of maroon and royal blue, the best of it woven in a magnified fashion. Proenza classicists will take delight in these more minimalist creations, while those looking for something new and statement-making will obsess over the fur. But most of us will want it all!

Akira Bag, $4,595, and Large Chieko Bag, $1,295, available for pre-order at Proenza Schouler.

Ralph Lauren Fall 2012 Collection: The Legend Continues…

2012-02-16T21:39:06Z

I have been a Ralph Lauren girl since I was a teenager. From classic preppy polo shirts and cashmere sweaters to immaculate velvet smoking jackets and sequined leggings (yes, Ralph makes the best skintight sequined leggings on the planet – I bet you didn’t know this!) to bed linens, picture frames, and sick shearling boots, I am loyally addicted to it all.

But it’s only been in recent years that I have gotten into Ralph Lauren’s bags. (Aside from the Ricky, of course. I have several, including a rare white crocodile version.) I have been watching Ralph’s ever-expanding foray into day bags closely: they’ve been known primarily for their exquisitely crafted clutches, but each season, the bag collection just gets better and more versatile. Now for Fall 2012, bag lovers are in for a real treat!

1. Gold Leather-Covered Frame Bag: This shimmering beauty is the standout of the new collection. Distressed and crackled gold pony-hair skin is unexpected in the form of a modernized doctor-style bag. There is also a smaller messenger style- my fave from Ralph this season.

2. Fold-Over Clutch with Serpent Detail: Rustic and rugged yet deeply sexy, as only Ralph can achieve.

3. Large Ocelot Printed Goatskin Clutch: Ocelot is rapidly cementing its place as the must-have animal print of the season. This elongated take on the pattern is so luxe!

1. Square Chain Bag in Tomato Suede: Like Chanel’s classic chain-strap bag, this is an instant must for luncheons, cocktails, and dinner parties.

2. Small Hobo with Metal: Slouchy chic at its best. I love the addition of the chain detail; it’s the perfect way to spice up a laid-back hobo style.

3. Herringbone Etched Metal Top-Handle Clutch: Not only is this bag fascinating to the eyes, the craftsmanship is meticulous. This is my version of high art.

4. Beaded Frame Clutch in Black Velvet: Ornate details like this bring a strong sense of whimsy to the evening clutch – perfect for a winter’s night.

WebSnob February 17th, 2012

2012-02-19T15:42:48Z

With precision-perfect craftsmanship, innovation of fur, evening dresses with endless sexy-louche appeal, J. Mendel presented one of the most beautiful collections of the week! At CoutureSnob.

Coquette says go bold with color this spring with a colorblock mix of pink and reds.

What makes you feel more protected – and more tough and powerful – than a great pair of boots? Proenza Schouler at ShoeSnob toyed with the concept of “protection” for Fall 2012.

Lots of new exciting beauty looks have been making their way down the runway. Check-out some of the recent standouts at BeautySnob!

The Jet Set Girls love the Jimmy Choo Cruise 2012 Collection.

This Alexander McQueen gold skull bangle bracelet is the perfect addition to Shopping and Info’s must haves for a spring 2012 Arm Party..

Theyskens’ Theory Fall 2012 Collection: The Medium is the Messenger

2012-02-15T00:24:55Z

When it comes to darkly urban cool, Olivier Theyskens and his revamp of Theory have got a monopoly on the aesthetic. It all started with a surprising first collection, followed by the flared corduroys that launched countless fans. And then his criss-crossy messenger bag came on the scene last year, solidifying the label as a lower-priced line high on casual luxury.

Leather jumpsuits and wool coats, autumn shorts and sheer mullet-maxis: much of it paired with bags high on shine and low on color. It’s not the polished, peppy kind of shine we usually see. Fall 2012’s gleam is roughed up and gritty. This glossy leather and sheen-filled pony-hair are creased; they’ve been through something, giving the clutches a relaxed, daytime-appropriate vibe.

Theyskens also mixed up the lean, leggy, youthful looks with a lightly structured top-handle style – more toned down, more grown up than anything we’ve seen so far from the brand. But the best of the bunch was a super-textural crocodile-effect crossbody bag, trimmed in crackly patent leather – that somehow doesn’t look at all cheesy. It drove the point home: the messenger is Theyskens’ Theory’s jam.

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2012 Collection: Dual Action Star

2012-02-14T22:44:35Z

Good and bad, negative and positive, illusion and reality, hard and soft: however you talk about it, opposites attract. This season, nobody has seemed to embrace the notion of smooth contradictions more than Phillip Lim. With a palette centered on black and white, graphic patterns against mesh sheerness, he delivered his interpretation of the “modern-day superhero” who walks among us. She’s strong, powerful, and definitely not in any silly costume.

The oversized clutches and mini-crossbody satchels delivered a similar kind of duality. Appearing from the haze (courtesy of a fog machine at full blast), the bags appeared in panels of clear PVC (a nice compliment to the slip-knot belts in the same material) and textural leathers. Some slouchy and zipped-up, some softened by shearling, others in the thin silhouette of portfolios. Even the friskier bags had a business-like feel – and that’s no accident. Phillip Lim has grown up for fall, and his heroine means business.

Marc Jacobs Fall 2012 Collection: Trip the Light Fantastic

2012-02-14T19:10:21Z

It was virtually impossible not to love the sense of fantasy Marc Jacobs brought to NYFW. With sparkle and whimsy to spare, he created an alternate universe (along with the help of friend, artist, and set designer, Rachel Feinstein who created his “broken castle”) that could only exist in some people’s wildest dreams.

It shouldn’t have added up – gigantic fur hats right out of Dr. Seuss, unabashed mixed media, skirts with deliberately awkward hemlines – but just as bothThe Cat in the Hat and fashion eccentric Anna Piaggi were cited as inspirations, Marc’s acid-tripping pilgrims were absolutely irresistible. It was sparkle and dowdiness compounded into over 50 fascinating looks. This cocktail of slouchy suits, padded hips, rhinestone-buckled shoes, purposefully awkward hemlines, fur, and flash was so full of life it felt like it came out of the most astute child’s imagination – or one of today’s most prolific and gutsy designer.

The oversized top-handle bags, in offbeat shades of mustard and olive green, lacquered leather and gleaming ostrich (we are seeing so much high-shine skin this season!) were just the pairing to ground these wild looks and complete Marc’s character. This irreverent woman is something of a traveler and small-scale satchels would have completely thrown off the great proportions of the clothing. Sometimes bags steal the show and others they complement it. This is definitely a case of the latter, where all the elements came together in a most magical manner.