The Bag Snob: Reviews of Designer Handbags, Authentic Designer Purses, and Leather Bags

The "Tina" Clutch by Adriana Castro

2009-07-03T16:00:19Z

The lovely Adriana Castro bestowed an incredible honor on me-- she named the hottest bag from her Spring 2010 line after me! That has got to be the highest honor for a bag snob! Anyone who has met or shopped with me knows my tendency to shout "that is so 'Tina', I must have it!". Apparently Adriana took note the last time I visited her showroom in NYC because she designed a clutch that is not only totally 'Tina', it's named the "Tina" Clutch! I love the pleated and full shape, it holds everything yet is easy to clutch due to the flat clasp. (Jump to see interior). The best part is you can custom the "Tina" (yes, I am going to use the name over and over, I am that vain!) clutch depending on your taste. You can choose any skin (crocodile, lizard, python, ostrich leg) with any trim and in any color! The "Tina" clutch is currently by special order only (Adriana tells me the boutiques have loved them!). To place an order, e-mail sales@adrianacastroonline.com or order by phone 1.866.460.4484.

The dimensions: 9.5"W x 5.5"H x 2"D (you can customize the size, too! make it larger or smaller, depending on your needs-- prices will adjust for size accordingly). Crocodile: $1,1150 -- You will be hard pressed find another crocodile clutch for this price and quality!
Lizard: $1,015 -- I love the ring lizard but think I will go for a crocodile version. Heck, it's named after me, shouldn't I get ALL colors!?!? Python: $895 -- Adriana uses high quality python skin that is supple and lush. Ostrich Leg: $700 -- Hello! This is a no brainer, ostrich leg is as sturdy as they come and the price is crazy!!!

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Kate loves her Elsa clutch from Derek Lam

2009-07-03T13:00:49Z

My favorite clutch of the moment is Derek Lam's Elsa in gray python, apparently it is Kate's as well. She has been seen clutching it on many occasions (yesterday at a London club opening) and if you owned this clutch you'd understand why. It just has that je ne sais quoi-ness to it-- you know what I mean, it's cool without trying, just like Kate.

I use it several times a week myself, it is ultra functional and edgy chic to boot. It instantly hips up any outfit I have on, even if it's a boring shift dress.

I was told the Elsa in gray python sold out mere days after it was posted here two months ago. If you missed out, try calling Wayne and see if he can find one from somewhere for you. If not, you can order it in bubblegum for resort 2010!

Call Wayne at 212-966-1616 or email him here.
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Gucci's new groove: Iconic Bag

2009-07-03T10:00:37Z

Could this be!?!? The Snobs post two glowing reviews of Gucci bags in one week!?!? Gucci has been catching our eye lately in a good way (and not the omg I'm ashamed I ever carried/wore anything with GG on it way). First the large Lucy clutch and now the Iconic bag with horsebit hardware. Very impressed with the use of the brand's iconic horsebit as the zipper pull, it makes a strong "I am Gucci" statement without compromising on design or resorting to the overkill of logos. The pleated detail softens the hobo and lends a fresh young vibe to the aging brand. I am all about the RTW this season from Gucci, too. Frida Giannini's latest efforts will soon have people saying, Tom who? Gucci Iconic Bag (15.7"w) at Saks for $1,950 (if they can drop the prices a wee bit they'd have a major hit here!)

Extra 25% off sale at Shop Bop!

2009-07-03T02:39:14Z

Enter code EXTRA25 at check out and get additional 25% off everything on sale, including the 75% off items! I love the Blake bags from Kooba in these juicy colors for summer-- Kooba Blake Handbag in white now $338!

Kooba Blake Handbag in orange also $338. Go shop for hundreds of items, jeans, summer dresses, and bags! Have fun!

Jil Sander Multi Zip Tote

2009-07-02T16:00:53Z

I am always on the prowl for interesting bags like this Jil Sander multi zip tote. At first it appeared sloppy but like everything Raf Simons does, there is a precise method to the slouch. Unlike other ruffly bags, this is actually very functional. Its softly draped folds each have a structured zipper opening allowing one to hide different treasures accordingly. This is especially useful while traveling. I am having many senior moments and often forget what and where I hide my things when I travel because I have so many little boxes and containers! Having all the secret pockets in one single bag will help me with my forgetfulness. Once again, Jil Sander delivers on style and functionality and I've come to expect nothing less from the brand. What do you think of the multi zip tote? JIL SANDER - MULTI ZIP TOTE $2,593/ 1920 euro.

Miu Miu Studded Coin Purse

2009-07-02T10:00:00Z

Like the stud trend but not enough to invest in an entire bag? The trend is continuing into Fall so it's not too late if you do want a studded bag. But if you're unsure, this cute little coin purse has just the right amount of non-committal studs you want! If you are feeling bored with your favorite bag, this is a fun way to change things up a bit by accessorizing your accessory! Remember those Prada fobs that were so addicting? I spent way too much money on way too many of them! My favorite was the flame with skull and cross bones. At least this coin purse has a function other than just as a danglie. Keep your keys and a few bucks in there and you can detach this to run out for coffee. At Net-a-Porter for $225.

Jimmy Choo Metallic Hobo

2009-07-01T16:00:48Z

There is a lot to be said for simple chic-- even more so when it's punched up in a sparkling champagne finish. I'd say most of you wouldn't even think this is a Choo bag given its subtle style and lack of logo and hardware-- kudos to the brand for keeping up with the times. And for the logo obsessed, they did leave a small dangling plate so you can show off, trimmed in leopard print no less! This is also lined in leopard print, very slouchy glam. There is also a plain black version but me, I'm a champagne and sparkle freak. Jimmy Choo Metallic Hobo $1.095 (a designer bag right at thousand bucks is few and far in between!)

Slob of the day: Borsalino Hat "top" handle bag

2009-07-01T13:00:20Z

This bag is so silly it made me chuckle but then I found out who the maker is and I became annoyed. What I thought was a whimsical idea and creative artistic expression turned out to be mere convenience on the part of the designer. You see, Borsalino is actually a hat maker-- how hard is sticking a pair of handles on an upside down hat and calling it a bag? What, if my head gets cold should I stick it on my head? Made of wool and calfskin with a grosgrain ribbon around the middle, this ridiculous bag retails for $608 / 450 euros. It's much cheaper (and wiser) to just buy one of their stupid hats for 194 euro and sew on two handles yourself. BORSALINO - BORSALINO HAT TOP HANDLE here.

What do you think?

Fashionphile: Authentic Preowned Designer Bags

2009-07-01T10:00:00Z

If you live in the LA area, you probably already know about Fashionphile, they have a boutique at 9551 Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Hills (as well as online) with hundreds of preowned designer bags. It is so much fun going through all the bags in there, especially the vintage pieces that you either reminisce about or surprised that you've never seen. It is one of my favorite things to do with a girlfriend on a shopping trip (even more fun after lunch and a cold glass of pinot grigio!). If you cannot wait, this is the place to go for an unquestionably authentic Birkin or Kelly. Most are in mint condition. The blue jean 30 togo in the picture above is $7995 - if you shop online, there are detailed pictures of every part of the bag. You will also find limited edition bags that is impossible to find anywhere else, like the Chanel Paris in NY Woman Handbag Tote ($2150) from the 2006 Fall collection that is brand new, the price tag is still on it! They also offer a consignment service for people who want to sell their bags. Last year's favorite bag can either continue to collect dust or it can help pay for your latest must have =)

Snob Worthy Links June 30 2009

2009-07-01T03:00:00Z

Beauty Snob gets flawless skin with the perfect Liquid to Powder foundation from Motives!

Couture Snob discusses MJ's influence on fashion.

Jewel Snob would consider homelessness for this Anaconda Elisa Ring!

Tot Snob found a great pair of Ballerina Slippers by Chloe.

Fab Sugar offers a sneak peak at Mango, Summer 09.

Nitrolicious is happy to have found a nice affordable pair of caged sandals with these N.Y.L.A. Isabel Caged Sandals.

She Finds Brown or Blonde for Britney? You decide.

The Find introduces the new metallic trend we've been seeing with these sequined skirts.

Ask the Snob: Is it okay to buy embossed exotic?

2009-06-30T17:00:18Z

Dear Bag Snob,
I am saving to buy the YSL lizard embossed Easy or Muse bag, do you think it is snob worthy? I love the look of exotics but can not afford to buy the 5 figure version. I am still in college and will pay for this bag with my summer job. It will be my only bag purchase this year so I don't want to make a mistake! I like the Easy a bit better but will it last like the Muse did? I am grateful for any advice!
Respectfully, Snob in training

Dear Snob in training,
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the YSL embossed lizard bags! As we always say, buy the best bag you can afford and if your budget allows you a lizard embossed suede Easy tote (17" medium is $1,195 and the 12" small is $995) and you love it, then you must get it! The suede version is so lush and rich-- I love the iconic Muse but the Easy is more youthful and will see you through the school year and beyond. YSL Bags at Saks. Good luck and enjoy your bag no matter what anyone else says, after all, you are the one working to buy it and you are the one carrying it!

Much love, Bag Snob

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Party with Poppy!

2009-06-30T15:33:56Z

What is it with 8 year olds carrying Prada bags and iPhones? What do they have to look forward to in life? I don't believe in caving in to the whims of youngsters-- they need boundaries and those who don't have boundaries often end... well you do not want to know where some of them end up!

Not that I think Coach is appropriate for little ones either but for teenagers it is acceptable if you can afford them that luxury. How cute is this kitschy little tote? Not for me but for, say, an 18 year old it'd be perfect!

If you live in Chicago-- our friends at Second City Style are hosting a Party wtih Poppy event at the Coach store on July 9th-- jump for details! RSVP is not required, but suggested at: poppy@secondcitystyle.com

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Join Coach and Second City Style to 'Party With Poppy'

Date: Thursday, July 9th, 2009

Location: Coach Michigan Avenue
625 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

About Event: To celebrate the much anticipated launch of the Poppy collection, Coach is partnering with Second City Style, the Chicago-based online magazine and blog, to co-host a celebratory fete in Coach's premiere Michigan Avenue location. Guests will be able to indulge in a slew of Poppy-perfect treats, including a Poppy candy bar, exclusive Poppy presents with purchase, and a custom Poppy playlist created by famed NYC DJ's The Misshapes. Guests can also interact with the Poppy-razzi photobooth and see their photos instantly uploaded onto www.coach.com/poppy and Facebook. Three lucky winners will also be selected for a $1,000 shopping spree.

Additional Details:
- Gift with Purchase over $198 (Poppy pencil case)
- Free Gifts with visit (Poppy pins and pencils)
- Sparkling juices, sliders, and mini-cupcakes among the treats that will be served.
- Photobooth will be in store and functioning during event hours.

About Poppy: Poppy is Coach's newest collection of vibrant and edgy handbags and accessories debuting this summer. Mixing a preppy East Coast vibe with punky sensibilities, Poppy features many of Coach's coveted trademarks, including vintage shapes, girly details, and quirky hardware and fabrications. Beginning July 1st, Poppy will available for purchase in all Coach locations and online at www.coach.com/Poppy.

Zagliani Lace Leather Bag

2009-06-30T10:00:00Z

Zagliani is known for innovation in material and skin so it is entirely appropriate for them to do a novelty bag like this one with lace detail. Look at the intricacy and precision of how the leather is folded and turned and sewn to get the perfect lace effect. I mean, as a whole, the bag is a bit too busy and frou frou for my taste but it is incredibly impressive to look at. Like a museum piece, you ohh and ahh but wouldn't exactly have the need to take home a marble statue of a naked man (but that's just me). I just can't believe the technical craftsmanship of this bag! At first I surely thought it would be actual lace! But of course it would fall apart if you got it caught on something. Even with this one though, you should probably heed extreme caution when using it. At Browns Fashion for $5,875.

Bizarre Snob Bag of the day: Alexander McQueen glove clutch

2009-06-29T18:00:14Z

This clutch is so weird it's kind of cool. McQueen must have been cold the day he designed this and thought of a stylish way for us to keep our hand warm while holding a clutch. The glove is removable (updated, the SA I called told me it was not) so you can leave it on or off depending how edgy you feel that day.

Say what you will but this is definitely a conversation piece and you'll be noticed wherever you go! What do you think?
Alexander McQueen glove clutch $895 here

The minute I saw it I thought of the uber stylish 17 year old Jane Aldridge who blogs at Sea of Shoes. I am obsessed with her blog-- it's hard to believe she is only a teen with that insane sense of style!

Slouch Snob: Costume National Bags

2009-06-29T13:00:27Z

If you're looking for a lazy slouchy bag to hang around with this weekend, grab Costume National's ruched hobo. It has that sloppy-I don't care what I look like- chic but the ruched sides give it plenty of structure as well or it'd be just a giant blob and that would not be cute at all! You won't need ripped jeand and Doc Martens with them, however, a feminine little white dress will beautifully contrast with this delightfully urban guerrilla bag. I am quite impressed with the unique design of Costume National bags-- a simple shoulder bag with folded details also caught my eye. Prices are quite reasonable-- check out Costume National Ruched Leather Hobo $1125 here and Costume National Folded Leather Shoulder Bag here.