Radley Bags - Mary Frances Handbags - Designer Handbags - Burberry

Ten Most Expensive Handbags

2011-12-03T14:11:00.000-08:00

Most Expensive Handbags and Purses in the World

Which are the Most Expensive Bags and Purses in the World ?

Louis Vuitton was the first manufacturer of "designer bags" and he created a fashion that has been with us ever since. I consider anything over $1,000 to be expensive for a handbag but some people are willing to pay tens of thousands or millions. So just in case you have a few thousand dollars to spare here are the top ten most expensive handbags ever sold.

Top 10 Most Expensive Women's Handbags

1. The Mouawad's 1001 Nights Diamond Purse - $3.8 million

The new and official most expensive handbag in the world - the Mouawad 1001 Nights Diamond Purse. The purse is handcrafted from 18kt gold with 4,517 diamonds (4,356 colorless, 105 yellow, 56 pink) with a total weight of 381.92 carats. Made by 10 artisans who worked on it for a total of 8,800 hours.

2. The Hermes Birkin bag created by Japanese designer Ginza Tanaka - $1.9 million

This bag was sold in 2008 for around $1.9 million made of platinum with over 2,000 diamonds. In addition to being a handbag you can also use the diamond strap as a necklace or bracelet. The bag has an 8-carat pear shaped diamond that can also be used separately

3. The Chanel "Diamond Forever" Classic Handbag - $261,000

The "Diamond Forever" handbag has 334 diamonds for a total of 3.56 carats, in 18-carat white gold. The shoulder straps are also made from white gold. There are only 13 available worldwide.

4. Lana Marks Cleopatra Bag - $250,000

Lana Marks produces one Cleopatra clutch for retail each year. The one in the picture is made of metallic silver alligator skin and a clasp with 1,500 black and white diamonds in 18-carat white gold. Lana only allows one star each year to carry her handmade diamond studded designs down the red carpet.

5. Urban Satchel Louie Vuitton Bag - $150,000

The Louie Vuitton Urban Satchel Bag is created from all sorts of urban junk but it doesn't actually exist, it was put together as a spoof by an artist called 14 ?

6. Hermes Matte Crocodile Birkin Bag - $120,000

Named after British singer/actress Jane Birkin. The clasp of this tote boasts 10 carats of white diamonds. The bag itself is made of crocodile. You can get cheaper versions sarting at around $5000

7. Leiber Precious Rose Bag - $92,000

The Precious Rose is in the shape of a perfect flower, - 1,016 diamonds totaling 42.56 carats, 1,169 pink sapphires and 800 tourmalines.
8. LV Tribute Patchwork Bag - $42,000

20 are available in Louis Vuitton stores in Europe and Asia but the 4 in the USA have already been sold.
9. Gadino Bag by Hilde Palladino - $38,470

This crocodile Gadino Bag from designer Hilde Palladino has 39 white diamonds in clasps of white gold.
10. Marc Jacobs Carolyn Crocodile Handbag - $38,000

One of Marc Jacobs' most popular bags. Purple crocodile skin, quilted with interior pockets and separators.

Spot Fake Coach Handbags

2011-08-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

Designer Handbags - Video on How to Spot a Fake Coach Bag?

Coach bags are high quality and very popular but how to make sure you are not buying a fake or knock-off? In this video Pam explains how to spot the difference between a genuine Coach bag and a fake - in her charming southern accent.

Why buy a genuine Coach bag? Two reasons - they are high quality bags that will last a lifetime and they are not as expensive other designer bags such as Louis Vuitton or Gucci.

What to look out for when buying a Coach handbag?

Zipper should be high quality - they are designed to last a lifetime
Stitching must be perfectly straight everywhere
All letters must be perfectly symmetrical
There should be 2 rows of Cs
If there are signature prints they must be on the inside OR on the outside but not both
The hardware must be good quality nickel or brass and heavy
Any leather tag inside a Coach bag must have a serial number with letters and numbers
There should be no paper or plastic wrapping round the metal parts
Buckles must be tight-fitting
Dustbags are high quality and plain (no letters)
The leather used in Coach bags is very thick and long-lasting - Coach handbags are made to last a lifetime

For information on Vuitton bags see - How to Spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag
See also How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag

Mulberry Alexa and Tillie Handbags

2011-05-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

Designer Bags - Mulberry Alexa and Tillie with 20% Discount!

Mulberry is one of the great success stories in UK retailing, despite the economic hard times the world is going through.

Mulberry Alexa

It would appear that luxury goods and designer handbags are immune to the general woes. One of Mulberry's greatest successes is the Alexa (named after Alexa Chung) handbag and despite being just over 1 year old it is still very much sought after by handbag junkies.

The Alexa costs around £785 or $1200 if you are in the

USA and a lot of Mulberry's success is due to the popularity of this bag, which was launched in January 2010. Sometimes selling over 350 a week. You can however get 20% reductions on Mulberry bags at certain specific stores if you buy 500 shares in the company. You need a special shareholder discount card which you can get from Mulberry's after you've bought your shares.

According to Mulberry's creative director, the recession actually helped in the Alexa's success in the UK at least, as British people turned to buying British. Also apparently women will spend money buying handbags and shoes rather than pay the rent!

There is also the argument that quality designer handbags are actually more of an investment than an expense as you can always sell them on, perhaps for more than you paid for them!

Mulberry Tillie

Also according to Emma Hill, the next big thing after the Alexa is the Tillie a mid-sized, soft leather bag which capitalizes on being both utilitarian and luxury.

Further information on Mulberry handbags

Hermes Bags Prices

2011-04-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

Hermes Bags - Prices are High but so is the Quality of the Bags

Hermès (pronounced airrr-mess in French) is a French fashion house established in 1837, now famous for their bags and other fashion goods. They specialize in leather, lifestyle accessories, perfumery, ready-to-wear, and luxury goods. Its famous logo is of what is known as a "Duc carriage" with horse.

Thierry Hermes - Founder of Hermes

The Hermès family were originally Protestant Germans, who moved to France in 1828. In 1837, Thierry Hermès established Hermès as a harness workshop, in the "Grands Boulevards" district of Paris, with the aim of supplying goods to European noblemen. He set about creating the finest wrought harnesses and bridles available to the carriage trade. The company gained fame in 1855, when it won the first prize in its class at the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris and the company has never looked back since.

Hermes' son Charles-Émile Hermès took over control from his father and in 1880 moved the shop to 24 Rue Faubourg Saint-Honoré, near the Palais de l'Elysée. The Hermès shop is still at this location today. The company catered to the elite of Europe, Russia, Asia, and the Americas.

Hermès now has 14 different product divisions which include leather, ties, scarves, women's fashion, menswear, watches, perfume, footwear, gloves, stationery, enamel, tableware, decorative arts, and jewelry.

Given that Hermes only use very high-quality materials and the best hand-craftsmanship the prices of Hermès goods are very high. For example a Hermès scarf may cost US$375, a tie may cost US$180, and a Kelly bag is in the region of US$6,900. Hermès is considered by some to be "the height of luxury with a nod to the house's equestrian heritage."

Hermès only employ one craftsperson on one handbag at a time, who hand-stitches each individual piece. Hermès production methods are therefore very labor-intensive and can take 18 to 24 hours to make. Each Kelly bag, for example, requires 18 hours of work by a single craftsman. Hermès' leathers include alligator, buffalo, crocodile, shark, lizard, oxen, calf, deer, goat, and ostrich.

Hermes Evelyne Bag

If a Hermès bag requires repair, owners are encouraged to bring the item back to their nearest Hermès store where it can be shipped to France for reconditioning or repair.

Popular bags include the Birkin bag, made famous by English actress Jane Birkin, the "Kelly bag", made popular by actress and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, the Constance shoulder bag preferred by Jacqueline Onassis. Kelly and Constance bags are still in high demand, and there used to be a one-year waiting list although since economic crisis in 2007 waiting lists have been eliminated, or reduced.

Some current Hermes handbags with prices :-

Evelyne Bag, silver and palladium hardware, café taurillon clemence leather, outside pocket, adjustable strap,leather tab closure, perforated leather plaque, 11 1/4" x 12" x 2 1/2"

$2,625.00

Hermes Bag Victoria Fourre Tout

Victoria Fourre-Tout
Tote Bag, dark brown grizzly calfskin, ebony calfskin details. Canvas lining. Padlock, key holder and luggage tag. Measures 9"h x 13.8"w x 6.7"d. With handles, height is 17".

$5,400.00

Due to their popularity Hermes bags have given rise to numerous fakes and replicas - to see how to spot a fake Hermes bag click here - Hermes replica handbags

Home : Hermes Bags

Radley Bags Valentines Day Bags

2011-01-15T09:59:00.000-08:00

Radley Bags Sale - Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

With Valentine's day just around the corner you may be scratching your head wondering what sort fo Valentine's day gift would be appropriate for your significant other. Radley Bags are currently offering significant savings in their designer handbag sale ! Their USA store is offering up to 40% off selected Radley bags and their UK store is offering up to 60% off !

It is worth point out that Radley bags are the best-selling UK designer handbags so they have a good reputation and are also of high quality - just make sure you get the genuine article not a fake or replica bag. For how to spot the difference see here - how to spot a fake Radley Bag

Radley Stella

Radley Stella Bag Sale

Soft textured suede in a structured scooped shape with contrasting leather trim. 2 large zip pockets - decorated with a liner and zig-zag stitch.

Buckles at the ends of the leather shoulder strap, with stitch pattern.
Dimension : W32 x H18 x D8.5 cm
Was £135 - on sale at 60% off - now £54

The Radley USA store is offering (amongst many other Radley bags) the
Radley Grosvenor Harris Tweed Large Flapover Shoulder Bag

Radley Grosvenor Harris Tweed Flapover Shoulder Bag

To celebrate British craftsmanship and heritage, Radley has joined forces with Harris Tweed to design this original textured tweed - hand woven in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.

The beautiful leather in three rich colors, is combined with Radley's tweed to create the best-selling Grosvenor satchel style. Each Radley Harris Tweed bag has the iconic Harris Tweed label to highlight authenticity.
Dimension : W13.8“ x H9.8 “ x D3.9 “
Was $398 now $199

Home : Radley Bags

Radley Bags Special Christmas Offer

2010-11-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

Radley Bags Special Christmas Gift Offer

With Christmas approaching fast you may be looking around for Christmas gift ideas. Radley Bags are running a special buy 2 get 1 more free offer for their wide range of designer handbags and goods. So if you are looking for a designer handbag or two as Christmasn presents then check out their site in the links. Prices range from under £25 to £300 so there is something for all budgets and nothing too horrendously expensive.

Radley handbags are very well-made designer bags so as long as you buy the genuine article you (or she) should have no complaints. Beware of fakes however as Radley bags are very popular they are also very popular for those who like making cheap fakes and replicas -seee how to spot a fake Radley Bag

According to Radley, one of their best-selling bags is the Grosvenor satchel which they have re-vamped in new seasonal colours. The Grosvenor bag from Radley is "crafted from the most beautiful textured leather, with antique brass fittings, a sculpted flapover top and leather strap detail."

It is also exclusive to Radley's website and own stores, and has featured in Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire magazines.

Radley Grosvenor
Beautiful textured leather
Padded adjustable shoulder strap rest for comfort
Stylish buckle
41 cm strap from top of the bag to the apex
Flapover top with strap detail
2 flapover pockets on the front
Zip pocket underneath the flapover top
2 internal zip pockets
Floral pattern on dust bag and interior lining, inspired by a wood block carving from Jaipur, India

Price - £275

Radley Grosvenor Harris Tweed
Radley bags has collaborated with Harris Tweed to design an exclusive original textured tweed, hand woven in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.

Beautiful leather in 3 rich colours, combined with this special Radley tweed to create a new holdall in Radley's best-selling Grosvenor collection. Each bag features the Harris Tweed label to stress authenticity.
Dimensions : W45 x H30 x D18 cm

Zip top
Straps from the top of bag to apex are 30cm
2 pockets on the front
Leather flapover top and strap detail
2 interal zip pockets
2 slip pockets

Price - £300

Home : Radley Bags

Mulberry Handbags and Bags

2010-10-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

Designer Handbags - Mulberry Handbags

In 1971 Roger Saul created the Mulberry handbag company in the UK with his mother. Mulberry started life as a British lifestyle brand, but it now sells luxury designer handbags, bags, purses, menswear, womenswear, and women's shoes. It has also gained recognition worldwide for their fine leather goods, a success which has been emulated by another UK designer handbags manufacturer Radley handbags. They must be doing something right as they recently announced a surge in sales of over 78%.

Mulberry Daria Leather

Mulberry's strength resides is their luxury designer bags - like the Roxanne and the Bayswater and - which have become fashion classics. Mulberry hired British designer Emma Hill as creative designer in 2008 and she has since started to building a loyal following of discerning clients for her refined and innovative styles.

Mulberry bags are not particularly cheap but they are not outrageously expensive either, ranging in price from a few hundred dollars or pounds to a few thousand. In addition, if you buy a few shares in the Mulberry Group you are entitled to a 20% discount on their bags and handbags etc... in some of their stores.

Just make sure you they send you a shareholder discount card as you will need it to claim your discount.

Mulberry makes its designer leather bags in the UK at its factory in Somerset and has plans to increase the size of the factory and make even more bags, which is good for the local workforce. Mulberry also trains apprentices so that local youngsters can learn a useful skill.

Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich $5000

Mulberry Bayswater Ostrich Leather Handbag ($5000)
A sophisticated stone ostrich-leather bag with gold-tone designer-embossed turn-lock front fastening. This Mulberry handbag has 2 handles, gold-tone hardware, feet, gray suede lining, concealed buckles to expand the bag, internal zipped and pouch pockets and a padlock and keys tag attached.

However, the success of Mulberry bags, handbags and shoes has of course led to the proliferation of fakes and replicas. In fact if you look for Mulberry handbags on the Internet the vast majority of sites you find are sites offering fake Mulberry bags.

If you are looking for genuine Mulberry handbags then you would be well-advised to visit the official Mulberry site Mulberry.com - see the links or visit a genuine Mulberry store. There are plenty of Mulberry stores around the world including one at 605 Madison Avenue in New York.

How to Care for Mulberry Bags

Mulberry Bayswater Leopard Print approx. $2250

Mulberry state that you should use Collonil Waterstop spray to treat their antique leather products, in order to reduce dirt, water and preserve the natural look of the leather. If it gets wet, remove any residual water with a paper towel, pack the handbag loosely with paper and allow it to dry naturally. Do not dry it in sunlight or direct heat for prolonged periods. Avoid rubbing the leather against fragile or light colored clothing. Avoid scratching and do not place your bag on rough or sharp surfaces.

Mulberry Bayswater Leopard Print (approx. $2250)
Multicolored leopard-effect calf hair bag, gold-tone designer-embossed turn-lock front fastening. Two handles, gold-tone hardware, feet, concealed buckles to expand the bag, stitched trim, internal zipped and pouch pockets and a padlock and keys tag attached.

Home : Radley Handbags

B Makowsky Bags on TV

2010-04-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Designer Bags - B Makowsky Handbags on QVC

We've been fans of B Makowsky bags for a long time and we've just seen some great Makowsky bags being advertised on TV shopping channel QVC - I've never watched the channel before but it is a great way of getting a close look at designer handbags - right now they are showing B Makowksy Bags which is cool!

Here are some of our favorite Makowsky bags they have been showing.

B Makowsky Glove Leather Double Handle
This leather shopper bag from B Makowsky is both stylish and practical. It's crafted from soft glove leather and is sold in a range of fashionable colors - Black, Lipstick Red, Sage Grape, or Vachetta Tan. Multiple zip pockets for organisation and is very roomy, so it's perfect for housing all your daily essentials. Animal-print lining, silver-look hardware and a hidden magnetic clasp complete the designer look. Body: 100% leather; lining: 100% polyester

B Makowsky Glove Leather Tote

Chic style with this B Makowsky leather bag. From soft glove leather for a designer look, a trendy twist with silver-tone hardware and eyelet and whipstitch details. Lots of space to organise your hectic life with 3 compartments inside, a flap pocket on the front and a zip pocket on the back. The main compartment secures with a zip and the flap pocket with a magnetic popper. Choose from 4 colors with a contrast trim - Lake Blue, Lipstick Red, Midnight Blue, and Butterscotch or block colour Brandy.

B Makowsky Victoria Leather Hobo Bag

For your everyday essentials get this classic leather hobo-style bag from B Makowsky. The block colour bag has a pocket on the front, metal hardware and contrast stitch details. Inside, it's lined with leopard print fabric and opens via a zip to reveal one main compartment with an internal zip pocket plus two patch pockets, to keep all your bits and pieces tidy. The handbag measures about 20cm x 33cm x 8.8cm (8" x 13" x 3.5") and has a handle length of 17cm (7"). 100% leather

Home : Designer Handbags

Radley Bags USA New Arrivals

2010-03-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

Radley Bags USA Cool New Handbag Designs

Radley bags are the most popular British designer handbags and have steadily increased in popularity since their launch in 1998. They aim for originality and surprise, preferring to "fail in originality than suceed in imitation".

They produce high quality handbags without being extravagant. Radley handbags tend to be brightly colored with distinctive details and use richly colored leathers and a variety of materials. As a quality manufacturer of designer bags they pay great attention to detail throughout.

As they are so popular they have of course atracted fake replicas, so to be sure of getting a genuine Radley bag in the USA I recommend you visit their USA site - http://www.radleylondon.com - at the moment they are showing a number of "new arrivals" from which I have picked my favorites - prices range from around $125 - $290. For information on how to spot replica Radley bags see - How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag - They also have a free competition to win a bike and Radley accessories!

Radley Handbags New Arrivals - USA
Mayfair - price $288 - a Large Shoulder Bag by Radley

Made from butter-soft leather formed into a scooped hobo tote. Distinctive plait and tassel detailing on handles and sides, great for the summer - which is not far away ! Available in a variety of colors.

Beautiful premium leather
Shoulder strap from the top of the bag to the apex is 13.8"
Zip top
2 zip pockets, 2 slip pockets and a key holder fob
Lined with a floral print cotton

Glastonbury - price $175 - Medium Across Body

Soft, crinkled leather in a slouchy barrel shape. Beautiful sweet pea print features on sides, piping and ruched leather around the seams.

Shoulder strap attached to large leather hoops and 2 cotton bracelets, colorful strips of leather, beads and shells on one side with the Radley dog tag.

W9.8“ x H8.3 “ x D2.8
Soft crinkled leather
Zip top
2 zip pockets inside
Sweet pea print on the sides and also on interior lining

Shaftesbury - price $198 - Small Barrel Grab

An interesting Radley bag made from a combination of materials. The main body is thick ribbed cotton. The top collar and slim handles are from very soft leather. Main zip top compartment and two slim side compartments which close with magnetic poppers. Colorful Radley design plume of leather tassels from the handle plus Radley dog tag.

W13.4“ x H8.7 “ x D2.4 “
Ribbed cotton with leather trim
3 compartments, main has a zip top, 2 with magnetic poppers
Two grab handles - 12cm
2 zip pockets and 2 slip pockets
Lined with daisy floral cotton print

Home : Radley Bags
Dooney and Bourke Handbags

B Makowsky Bags Sale Valentine's Gifts

2010-01-30T08:25:00.000-08:00

Ladies Handbags - Valentine's Day Gifts B Makowsky Bags Sale

Valentine's Day Ideas
B. Makowsky Handbags Sale
Valentine's day has gone but Easter is fast approaching! So whether you are looking for ideas for handbag presents for yourself or a gift for someone special then take a look at these B Makowsky handbags on sale at Macy's. Both of these Makowsky bags are on sale with reductions of over $100 ! B Makowsky makes high-quailty designer handbags so take advantage of Macy's generosity to grab a bargain.
The B Makowsky Madison Hobo is described as supple "Madison" hobo with striking hardware accents and a diamond stitched leather body.
Price reduced at Macy's from $268 to $149.99
Description
Leather
Top zip closure
Shoulder strap with 13-1/2" drop
Stitched leather body
Shiny silver hardware;
2 side pockets - flap closure
Interior satin lining
Back zip pocket
Open slip pocket
14-3/4" x 10-1/4" x 5-1/2"

The B Makowsky Lites Handbag Greenwich Tote marries textured leather and vibrant color.
Price reduced at Macy's from $268 to $149.99
DescriptionLeather
Magnetic snap closure
Double handles with 11" drop
Shiny silver hardware
2 side slip pockets
Twisted leather handles
Removable B. Makowsky luggage tag
Interior satin lining
Center divider zip compartment
Back zip pocket
2 open slip pockets
13-1/4" x 14" x 5"

Nordstrom's B. Makowsky Handbag Sale

At the moment Nordstrom's are offering a B. Makowsky handbag at a reduced sale price of $212 instead of the usual $328. The handbag is a "buttery-soft, pebble-grain leather tote" with metal-tipped belts and is framed by large slip pockets with concealed magnetic closure, outside cell phone pocket, inside center zip divider; zip and wall pockets, and leopard-print lining. Made of leather.

Home : Designer Handbags
Other Easter gift ideas - Radley bags on sale
Spot Dooney and Bourke Fakes

Radley Bags and Handbags Sale

2010-01-27T08:55:00.000-08:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - Radley Bags and Handbags Sale and Spring Collection

Radley Bags for Valentine's Day Ideas ?

The popularity of the Radley name has grown steadily amongst customers who value quality at a reasonable price ever since Radley bags was established in 1998. A bag from Radley would make a great Valentine's day gift idea - especially as there are a number of them that are on sale ! Take a look at some of the bargain quality Radley bags on offer.

Radley Brompton £59 reduced from £125

Their credo is to make beautiful designer handbags, bags purses and other leather goods that "women can fall in love with". Radley designer bags are known for their creativity, original design, extraordinary colors and unusual textures.

Radley Kingly Street £34 reduced from £50

For Radley a handbag must be a work of art, but they also like their bags to "display an emotion. To give off attitude or make a statement."

Radley Ledbury Road £139 reduced from £200
They aim to ensure that their handbags offer "Creativity without extravagance".

The good news if you are looking for a handbag, for a Valentine's day git for example ? is that Radley have reduced the prices on some of their bags - some of which are being offered with quite significant reductions in prices.

Radley Incognito - £39 reduced from £70

Home : Designer Handbags

Mary Frances Handbags

Radley Bags

Dooney Bourke Founder Prison Sentence

2009-12-08T10:49:00.000-08:00

Dooney and Bourke Designer Handbags Founder Frederic Bourke Prison Sentence

Dooney and Bourke handbags are excellent designer bags but founder Frederic Bourke (who hasn't been associated with te company for a long time) was given a one year and one day prison sentence yesterday for "foreign bribery". Last July he was convicted for investing $8 M with Czech Entreprenuer, Victor Kozeny, in the early 1990’s to bribe the Azerbaijan government in order to get in on the state’s private oil company. Burke will also have to serve 3 years probation after his release, and is also facing a fine of $1 million.
Bourke claims he is a victim of Kozeny, and that he didn’t know he was paying cash and jewelry to foreign government officials. He will appeal against the conviction and his lawyer feels Bourke has every chance of winning the appeal.

Dooney and Burke fell out a long time ago and Peter Dooney now runs the company. Back in May Bourke said that he believed Dooney was secretly injecting him with a “harmful substance.” Mr Dooney laughed off the accusation saying “I haven’t seen the guy in years and years. No secret injections. Categorically denied.”

On a more festive note Dooney and Bourke handbags are offering a number of special offers this month such as this excellent Calf Letter Carrier - Price $115 reduced from $165

Outside zip pocket
Inside zip pocket
Cell phone pocket
Strap drop length: 22.5"
Lined
Zipper closure

Home : Radley Bags
Related Posts : Dooney and Bourke Bags - Spot Dooney and Bourke Fakes

Radley Bags Sale One Third Off

2009-11-20T20:07:00.001-08:00

Designer Handbags - Radley Bags Sale 30% Reductions !

Christmas is fast approaching and we all know that designer handbags make very good presents. Fortunately you don't have to break the bank to find a very good quality designer bags for that 'special other'. Ra dley bags are very high quaility designer handbags and what is even more interesting is that they have some of their bags on sale at the moment with a reduction of 30%. Here are one or two examples of what Radley is offering - see link on this page.

Radley Bags Petticoat Lane

Soft, natural leather with a detachable 59cm strap.
Zip top
2 zip pockets inside and 2 slip pockets
Polka dot pattern on the lining

Price : £77 - reduced from £110

Radley Bags - Camden

Incredibly soft leather
63cm Across body strap
Flapover top secured by concealed magnet
Handy zip pocket on the reverse and inside
Floral print on lining inspired by a woodblock carving from Jaipur

Price :£59 - reduced from £75

Radley Tavistock Bag

Soft natural leather
Adjustable strap, maximum length 59cm
Flapover top secured by concealed magnet
Handy slip pocket on reverse and underneath flapover top
2 zip pockets inside and a lightly striped, cotton lining
Small leather Radley dog on tear-shaped contrast coloured leather tag

Price £99 - reduced from £150
Home : Womens Handbags
If you prefer your handbags slightly more quirky and whimsical take a look at some Mary Frances handbags

Spot Dooney and Bourke fakes

Radley Bags Christmas Gift Ideas

2009-11-13T04:42:00.000-08:00

Radley Bags for Christmas !

Womens handbag gift ideas for Christmas

Christmas is fast approaching so it's time to start thinking of Christmas handbag gifts and presents, don't leave it till Christmas Eve get it done early for once! Radley bags of London is doing a special free delivery for the UK, if you want to buy Radley bags in the USA, Lord and Taylor are offering free delivey on orders over $150.

At the Radley.co.uk site they are also offering special Christmas gift packs ranging from 50 GBP to 175 GBP, which include a bag, wallet/purse and umbrella or scarf, ideal if you are looking for a high quality bag as a gift, but do not want to break the bank.

Alternatively you can choose from their new arrivals such as the Radley Medium Shoulder Lambeth which is a shoulder bag, made from smooth leather with subtle stitch detail and contrast single stitch pattern along the top of the bag, on the strap and corners. Dimensions : W26 x H17.5 x D6.5 cm - Price £115

In the USA you could pick up a beautiful Radley Cavendish Place Tote for $275. The Cavendish Place is described as beautiful and full of color, and designed to grab attention! Made from the softest leather, it is a large tote with a gathered top and curved base. Hand-stiched criss-cross pattern on the leather shoulder straps and a brightly colored chunky resin bead charm with leather discs and the Radley dog tag. Someone will love it for Christmas !

Dimensions:16"w x 12"h x 4"d - Available in black, brown and red.

So do your Christmas shopping for your Radley bags now from the comfort and secret of your own bathroom !

Home : Womens Leather Handbags

Mary Frances Bags 20th Anniversary

2009-11-12T06:23:00.000-08:00

Womens Handbags - Mary Frances Special Edition 20th Anniversary Bag

The first Mary Frances bags were created 20 years ago and to mark the occasion Mary Frances has designed a special handbag which is a whimsical mix of precious crystals, soft leather and metallics, plus one of Mary Frances' unique signature flowers and the Mary Frances 20th Anniversary logo. The bag is being retailed at $299 by Mary Frances Accessories - see the link on the side of the page.

Mary Frances 20th Anniversary Special Edition Handbag

W x D x H: 10 X 1.5 X 3.5"
STRAPS: 1
HANDLE LENGTH: 40.5"
WEIGHT: 1.25 LBS
STRAP DROP: 19.5"

Mary Frances handbags describes this bag as a fusion of whimsy and elegance, femininity and functionality. It is embellished with opulent natural stones and trims from around the world, each piece being handcrafted with intricate details. Mary Francas bags have been described as "wearable art" and they have been seen on the arms of Oprah Winfrey, Eva Longoria, Teri Hatcher, Kate Hudson and Jessica Simpson, to name but a few.

As a special edition Mary Frances bag this could well become a collector's item so it might be worth tucking away as an alternative investment !

Home : Mary Frances Bags

Radley Bags Autumn Collection

2009-10-04T13:11:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Radley Bags Autumn Collection

For Mary Frances Bags click here - Mary Frances Handbags
The UK company Radley bags was founded in 1998 by Lowell Harder the current Creative Director of the company, who started by selling her designer bags at Camden Market in London. Initially retailers didn't appreciate Radley bags' colourful designs, but the company has progressed and Radley bags are now the best-selling UK designer handbags and are much appreciated by many celebrities including Natasha Bedingfield, Myleene Klass, and Cameron Diaz.
Radley Bag Mornington Crescent Large Multi-Way Grab
Radley makes beautiful colourful designer handbags and accessories with a distinctive design, and slightly eccentric as befits an English company. Radley bags explores the various cultures of the world to find inspiration.
Radley loves surprises and they love to surprise. They therefore approach their task of designing beautiful womens handbags with a completely open mind and their results are always surprising.

Radley has launched its Autumn Winter 2009 handbag collection to celebrate London. For the designers at Radley Bags, London tells stories of people with the same sense of adventure and fun as the peolpe at Radley bags. Stories of hidden places, discoveries. and inspiration
Radley Bag Knightsbridge Large Bowling Tote
The collection is based around different streets and areas of London in particular the Columbia Road Flower Market in East End of London.

Radley bags state that they express a "playful confidence and quirky British sense of humour", and that they enjoy a sense of freedom in design.

They see their handbags as works of art, but design their bags so that they are both practical and beautiful.

For Radley bags womens handbags are extensions of their bodies and an expression of each woman's individual style.
Radley Bag Grosvenor

Radley handbags are made with exceptional attention to detail and only the finest leathers are used. They have also developed over time in response to the ways in which women use their handbags.

Radley Bag Without A Paddle

See also How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag

Home : Radley Bags

Carlos Falchi Designer Bag Sale

2009-09-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

Womens Leather Handbags - Carlos Falchi Designer Handbag Sale

Carlos Falchi was born in Brazil in 1944. He moved to New York in 1964 and soon started to work at Max's Kansas City where his design talent brought him into contact with the most celebrated rock and roll and pop stars of the day. He soon began designing stage costumes for artists such as Elvis Presely, Miles Davis, Tina Turner and Mick Jagger.
(Carlos Falchi Python Hobo)
He showed his work to Geraldine Stutz, the buyer for Henri Bendel and in one of those strange turns of fate she showed more interest in the bag in which he was carrying his samples. She placed an order there and then for a number of Carlos Falchi's bags and thus was born the Carlos Falchi accessories collection.

Carlos Falchi is famous for his innovative designs of handbags and accessories. He insists on using only the best craftsmen for his designs, and the finest leathers.

(Carlos Falchi Pleated Pouch Clutch)
He has many clients from the world of show business and rock adn roll such as Tina Turner, Susan Sarandon, Madonna, Cher and Melanie Griffith. His designs have also been used in numerous films and TV shows including The Way We Were, Convoy, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and “Sex in the City.”

The number of his celebrity admirers has increased to include stars such as Eva Longoria, Sienna Miller, and Jessica Simpson.

Although best known for his designer handbags Carlos Falchi also designs jewelry, belts, and ready-to-wear.

His designs combine unusual textures, vivid colors, and unusual patterns, combind with his unique method for treating leather. “For me there is something magical about the creative process… I blend art and design to produce a dramatic and fresh take on the leather product” he says.

(Carlos Falchi Large Crocodile Bag)
His designs are available online at Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Eluxury.

At the moment there is also a sale with a 50% reduction at ebags.com - see link elsewhere.
Carlos Falchi strives to protect species and ensure environmental controls by developing farm-bred, exotic skins. These programs have led to the increased availability of high quality exotic skins.

Target has commissioned Carlos Falchi to design its next collection of handbags. Normally Mr Falchi's snakeskin bags sell for $400 but in October his bags will be offered by Target for around $100.

For other designer bags see
Mary Frances Handbags
Radley Bags
How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton
How to Spot Dooney and Bourke Fakes
Home : Radley Bags

Burberry Handbags Better than Gucci

2009-09-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Burberry Handbags for the Rich and Famous

Burberry Handbags

Radley bags may be the best-selling UK designer handbags but long before Radley came along, Burberry's was already a British institution. Burberry's is a UK company that was founded in 1856 in Basingstoke by Thomas Burberry a draper's apprentice. Before Burberry handbags became desirable designer items, Burberry's accessories and clothing were bought by well-to-do British families with a taste that was quite peculiarly British.

Burberry is also known for having invented the gabardine, a fabric that is hard-wearing, and water-resistant but breathes. In 1911, they provided the clothes for Roald Amundsen, the first person to travel to the South Pole, and Shackleton, for his 1914 expedition across Antarctica. In 1914 Burberry's officer's coat was adapted to suit the conditions in the trenches of the First World War, thus creating the "trench coat".

Burberry is famous throughout the world for its checked pattern of course, which was created in the 1920s as a lining for its trench coats.

Burberry also created clothing for aviators and sponsored Mrs. Betsy Kirby Green amd A. E. Clouston on their flight which broke the record for London to South Africa in 1937.

The Haymarket check or "Burberry classic check" - black, tan, and red was not widely used on umbrellas, scarves, and luggage until 1967. The Novacheck was launched to appeal to the younger market, and was then "exploded" i.e. made bigger and changed into a diamond pattern.

Burberry has had some image problems in the UK as a result of being adopted by British football supporters and hooligans and assorted chavs but the brand has now succesfully thrown off this image and is in the process of reasserting itself as a high-quality British luxury brand with Royal Warrants from the Queen.

Burberry handbags are now a major part of its product range along with exclusive fragrances. The new Creative Director for Burberry is Christopher Bailey who has transformed the company and made it a competitor of such luxury brands as Gucci, Dior and Prada.

Burberry has achieved a number of major coups recently such as getting Glenda Bailey of US Harper's Bazaar and Carine Roitfeld from French Vogue were to attend there recent event in London along with Anna Wintour editor of American Vogue, the biggest name in the fashion business and persuading Sarah Jessica Parker to sport a Burberry coat during Sex and the City the movie.

Christopher Bailey has transformed Burberry into a competitor for the likes of Dior and Gucci. So you can now buy Burberry again without running the risk of people thinking you are common.

So if you want something snooty, expensive and British check out the Burberry checks they specialize in handbags, but also do boots and I confidently expect them to be worn by numerous fashion icons over the next few months as Burberry completes its rebranding campaign.
See also
How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton
Mary Frances Bags

Burberry handbags
Burberry designer bags
Burberry check
Radley Handbags

Dooney and Bourke Summer Catalogue

2009-09-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

Dooney and Bourke Handbags - Summer Catalogue

The handbag company Dooney and Bourke was created in South Norwalk, Connecticut in 1975 by Peter Dooney and Frederic Bourke, but now is run exclusively by Peter Dooney who hasn't seen Frederic Bourke in years.

Here are some of the handbags from the recent Dooney and Burke summer catalogue.

Luna - $245.00

Size 14.25" x 1" x 9"

One internal zip pocket
Cell phone pocket
Zipper closure
Inside key hook
Lower zipper expands width of bag to 3.75"
Adjustable strap

Medium Chiara Bag - $345.00
Size 15.5" x 7" x 11"

Internal zip pocket
Center zip divider pocket
Internal key hook
Cell phone pocket
Strap drop length: 7.5"
Lined
Magnetic closure

Small Chiara Bag - $245.00

Size 11.5" x 5.75" x 9"

Internal zip pocket
Internal key hook
Handle drop length: 6.75"
Cell phone pocket
Lined
Magnetic closure

How to Spot Dooney and Bourke Fakes

dooney and bourke
dooney & bourke designer bags
dooney and burke
Home : Radley Bags

Mary Frances Handbags on Sale

2009-08-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Mary Frances Handbags Sale

Mary Frances handbags are certainly highly original. For nearly 18 years Mary Frances has, in her own words, "blended elegance with whimsy to create a unique style".

She designs five collections each year and her popularity continues to grow. Mary Frances handbags are have a unique bold look that means that many of her designs are collected just for the fun of collecting, by numerous Hollywood celebrities. Mary Frances accessories and purses are an additional means of investing in Mary Frances designer products in addition to the bags themselves.

Her handbags also have the added attraction of being affordable !

Mary Frances Handbag Sale

At the moment some Mary Frances bags are being offered on sale at ArtfulSoul who have reduced some of their prices - see the link elsewhere on this page.
Mary Frances Berry Beautiful for example is being sold at $122.40 instead of the normal price of $204 and the Mary Frances Artifact is on sale for $135 instead of $180.

Mary Frances Berry Beautiful

The bag has a hard shell inner construction and a hinged bottom. Flap over top and magnetic snap to close. Size 7 x 6-1/2 x 3 inches. Covered in orchid purple fabric embroidered with silver threads and purple/green iris beads along with clusters of pink sequin flowers. The front has a large flower with gilt petals, large plum color stone petals and purple crystals with blue crystal center. Shaped handle without shoulder strap. The interior of the bag is lined with rose fabric print

Mary Frances Bombshell

l - currently $152 from ArtfulSoul
Comfortable Wrist strap.
Size 7 x 5 x 8"
Details of seed beads, rhinestones and dangling beads.
A beautiful and extremely comfortable bag.

Mary Frances Twilight - currently $225 from ArtfulSoul
Stylish evening bag.
Size 8-1/4 x 3 x 2-1/2 inches.
Hard shell inner construction, hinged bottom, crystal-studded clasp on top.
Padded soft black leather covering, borderline anthracite black.
Tiny glass and crystal beads
The front has wonderful sculpted flowers with more clear and black crystals.
Lined in black.
Detachable shoulder chain.

Home : Radley Bags

Hermes Crocodile Birkin Bag

2009-06-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - the Crocodile Birkin Bag

The Crocodile Birkin Bag (named after British singer/actress Jane Birkin) is one of the most expensive handbags in the world. The good people on CNBC have just been talking about the incresae in production of such bags as being a sign that the economy may be recovering. Erin Burnett said on CNCB that the bag cost around $6000. Well it appears that they start at around $5000 ,
(Hermes Matte Crocodile Birkin Bag)
but the one in this picture is encrusted with diamonds and according to Forbes, costs in the region of $120,000 ! Someone at Hermes must have winced when she was implying they only cost $6000.

The clasp of this 30-centimeter tote bag has 10 carats of white diamonds and the bag itself is made of crocodile.

Personally I think it looked better as a crocodile.
If you think you might like to buy one then check out the recomended links.

Famous people who own Birkin bags :

Jane Birkin,
Victoria Beckham
Sandra Bullock
Naomi Campbell
Mariah Carey
janet Jackson
Lindsay Lohan
and many more ... I hope they all paid for them.
There are of course handbags that are a lot more expensive - see the top ten most expensive handbags in the world
See also Mary Frances Handbags - Radley Handbags
Home : Radley Bags

Radley Bags Special Offer

2009-06-09T05:38:00.000-07:00

Radley Bags - Radley's Three for Two Offer

Radley Bags at the moment are offering three items for the price of two on a number of ranges. Radley make excellent handbags and purses so their special offer is well worth a look. I don't get a commission from Radley so consider this a free plug for their bags and purses. Get yourself a genuine Radley bag !

There are some nice handbags in the Radley offer - here are two I spotted :-

Radley Canford Medium Shoulder Bag

A high quality soft bag with leather fringing and wooden beads. The leather of the tassel fringe extends up and forms the shoulder strap which if fitted with a comfortable leather shoulder pad.

Handy pocket on reverse.
Bag securely closed with a zip.
Shoulder strap is 10 inches long.
Patterned lining, two zip pockets, two slip pockets.

Price: £125.00 (+/- $195)

Radley Solent Across Body Bag

The Radley Solent collection full of energy and creativity. Panels of leather are decorated with appliqué pattern in contrasting leather. Round with small top flap and magnetic closure. Colorful tassels from the handle with a small enamel Radley Scottie dog. Three colors - spicy red with highlights in orange and green, ivory with turquoise and dark grey.

Adjustable strap - longest length 23 inches. Grosgrain fabric for lining. Two zip pockets. Two slip pockets

Price £145.00 (+/-$225)

Remember you get a third item free from Radley Bags' three for two offer.
For information on how to spot a fake Radley bag see - How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag radley bags radley handbags Radley bags special offer
Home : Radley Bags

Spot Fake Dooney Bourke Handbags

2009-05-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

How to Spot a Fake or Replica Dooney and Bourke Handbag

Dooney and Bourke handbags , aka Dooney and Burke on some sites, have joined the ranks of womens handbags that are "knocked off" or copied. So how can you tell if a Dooney and Bourke is a fake or replica or is in fact genuine? Unfortunately it is not too easy. The best way to be sure of getting a genuine Dooney & Bourke handbag is to use their recommended outlets or their website - there should be a link somewhere on this blog.

(A Genuine Dooney and Bourke Python Medium Nikki Bag - $465)

Here are a few tips however to help you check out your Dooney and Bourke.

The stitching on the leather logo tag should be the same color as the thread on the seams.
Some people say that "British tan trim" is on all Dooney and Bourke handbags. Unfortunately not everyone agrees on this point e.g. when Dooney and Burke first started making handbags you could order your own trim color so a lot of 'vintage' Dooneys do NOT have the British tan trim.
Old Dooney handbags in the Drawstring style, do not necessarily have the tan trim or the tan strap. And not all of them have the duck stitching inside.
The hardware on a Dooney and Bourke bag will be solid brass. This applies to the protective feet, strap knobs or studs. Brass plated steel is not genuine.
There should be a leather duck logo with visible stitching inside plus a red, white and blue registration number sewn beneath a leather seam.
(A Genuine Dooney and Bourke Large Toggle Bag - $285)
On the tag inside the bag it will say, "Dooney and Bourke", and it will have an SKU number printed on the other side. This number reveals the make and color of the bag. All Dooney Bourke handbags come with a registration card and a unique registration number.
Online you would be advised to stick to commercial sites such as Macys, Nordstrom, or the Dooney site itself.
If there is no registration card with the bag, look at the SKU and see if it matches the bag's SKU on the website.

If you don't fancy doing all that and you want to be absolutely sure that the Dooney and Bourke bag object of your desire is genuine, then we recommend you stick to the bona fide Dooney & Bourke outlets. dooney and bourke dooney burke handbags how to spot a fake dooney and bourke bag

Home : Radley Bags

Mary Frances Handbags

2009-05-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Mary Frances Handbags

In 1990 Mary Frances Schaffer started making handbags as a hobby in her apartment in the San Francisco Bay area, from these humble beginnings her handbags have spread and are considered highly desirable and are extremely popular with Hollywood celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Eva Longoria, Shania Twain, Kate Hudson Sheryl Crow and others. Mary Frances handbags are vibrant creations which reveal the designer's passion for life and her colorful personality. They are also considered by many to be more works of art than fashion items and as a result people collect them as investments.

The uniqueness of their design ensures that they will turn heads wherever you go ! They will also increase in value over time, so they really are a wise investment. Some people even go so far as to display them in their homes as works of art.

Each Mary Frances handbag is handmade, so each one is truly unique. Mary Frances handbags are made using only the finest quality materials and with almost obsessive attention to detail.
(Mary Frances Handbags - Lily Pond)
Mary Frances has received numerous accolades from the fashion industry, including "Accessory Designer of the Year at the 2004 Dallas Fashion Awards".

Mary Frances bags are a unique mixture of style, elegance, excitement and joie de vivre, they are also sold at reasonable prices.

(Mary Frances Handbags - Lemon Drop)
Mary Frances Accessories creates 5 collections each year of richly ornamented handbags that are genuinely 'one of a kind'. Each piece is created by hand by skilled craftsmen who pay close attention to each and every detail of the fabrics, stones, beads, and trimmings.
Home : Mary Frances Bags
Other handbag brands : Radley Handbags
B. Makowsky

Womens Handbag Theft Doubles

2009-05-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Handbag Theft on the Increase

Take care with your designer handbags and the stuff you put in them ! Recent research has revealed that the size of women's handbags has on average doubled over the last 10 years.

As a result more women carry documents such as passports, bank statements etc... with them.

The survey also revealed that one in ten men now have a "man bag" and over 60% of men carry their personal documents in them.

However, Kerry D'Souza,
card fraud expert for CPP, said: "It's easy to forget that your identity is as valuable to a thief as your wallet or car keys."

"As handbags get bigger and man-bags become more popular, people need to be aware of the risks attached to carrying around personal documentation and avoid doing so if at all possible."

"Ideally your passport, bank statements, passwords and payslips should be locked away at home in a secure place."

"If you lose your payments cards inform your bank as soon as possible."

The survey revealed that 83% of women have at least one document in their handbag showing their name, address or date of birth.

In the UK over 1.25 million women carry their passports around, and 1 million keep bank statements in their handbags.

Over 3 million women keep their payslips in their bags.

The latest figures show that bag theft is on the increase. There were over 700,000 thefts last year.

Most of these thefts take place on public transport and in pubs, with 10% being in a nightclub or shopping centre.

10% of women said their bag was wide open at the time.

So take care, although you may know that your Louis Vuitton designer bag is worth £2000, a thief is probably more interested in your passport and credit cards .
Home : Radley Bags

Dooney and Bourke Handbags

2009-05-09T08:02:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Dooney and Bourke Handbags Care and Gifts

Dooney and Bourke, aka Dooney & Bourke or even Dooney and Burke, for people who think two 'o's are quite enough for one name, make beautiful ladies handbags.

Dooney and Bourke handbags make great gifts.

Dooney and Bourke did in fact very thoughtfully create a special Mother's Day womens handbags gift section on their website where you could find for example the very colorful

Dooney Bourke Calf Large Luna for $275.00

Details
One inside zip pocket
Cell phone pocket
Zipper closure
Inside key hook
Adjustable strap
Bottom zipper expands width of bag to 3.75"
Strap drop length: 8"

Cleaning and Care of Dooney Bourke Handbags
Dooney & Bourke's Calf material is described as being water repellent and scratch resistant. Cleaning and care of D&B calf bags is easy. Just gently rub with a soft white cotton cloth which has been slightly dampened with water and a mild bar soap.

Your Mom might prefer the quality of the imposing

Florentine Vacchetta Shopper at $465.00

Details

Two outside snap pockets
Center zip divider pocket
Inside zip pocket
Inside key ring
Detachable coin purse
Cell phone pocket
Handle drop length: 8"
Lined
Feet
Snap closure

Care and Cleaning of Dooney and Bourke Handbags
Florentine vacchetta leather will get darker over time and with exposure to light. When wet it will darken briefly but when it dries the original color will return. Do not use creams, polishes, cleansing or conditional agents on this leather.

Dooney and Bourke's Florentine Vachetta Handbags are 100% cowhide leather. The waxed finish makes the surface water repellent and will help to stave off some soil.

Some grime can however be alleviated by gently rubbing with a slightly water dampened white cotton cloth. The waxed finish also helps in the removal of mild scratches. Just use an extra soft smooth cloth to remove most scratches.
Dooney and Bourke Dooney and Burke Dooney & Bourke dooney and bourke handbags womens handbags Designer Handbags

For information on How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton see Fake Louis Vuitton Bags

Radley Bags Special Offer

2009-05-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Radley Bags Spring Offer

Radley Bags Great Purses and Wallets

Radley Bags are very popular designer bags in the UK and are growing in popularity every year. They are in fact the biggest selling UK designed handbag mark. They are also expanding into the USA via their trulyradleydeeply site.

If you are looking for some great designer handbags to brighten up your collection then Radley is certainly worth a close look. They are relatively new but already have a solid reputation for quality and colourful innovation.

Radley Bags has a number of websites - radley.co.uk for the UK - radleylondon.com for the USA radleyandco.com and trulyradleydeeply.com - in addition to the Radley brand they also own the Tula and HiDesign brands - all of which you can see here - radleyandco.com/_explore/default.asp

Tula bags and handbag designs are described as "fresh and fashionable, combining great attention to detail with exceptional functionality"

HiDesign has been manufacturing leather bags and holdalls that are "handcrafted superior quality products" for over 30 years.

As summer is fast approaching Radley Bags have decided to promote their designer goods via a 3 for 2 offer, so this post is a shameless plug for their site as you may be able to pick yourself up a bargain. I don't get paid for advertising Radley Bags by the way, but you never know they might decide to make me an offer I can't refuse !

Radley handbags are always very colourful and original and of course high quality so check them out at radley.co.uk

Radley Bags - Small Flapover Coin Purse

A small purse with a flapover top with Radley playing with a butterfly. The pouch has a slip pocket on the reverse for a credit card.

Price: £20.00

Radley Bags - Medium Flapover Wallet

A classic expandable wallet for coins, credit card holders and a separate compartment for notes. Detailing shows Radley playfully leaping through a field of hay.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 10cm

Price: £40.00

Radley also have a very interesting leather bag for laptops in pink ! Got to be better than the normal plain old black offerings from other designers but then Radley Bags have always been known for their colourful designs.

Home : Radley Bags

B Makowsky Handbags

2009-04-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - B. Makowsky Handbags

B. Makowsky handbags are fast becoming very popular among women who are looking for elegant stylish and affordable handbags. The philosophy behind the handbags is in some way similar to Coach handbags - they offer a combination of fine leathers, elegant hardware and beautiful designs with the aim of creating affordable leather handbags. Makowsky bags are known for their quality and attention to detail, and a timeless look. At the same time they are not excessively expensive costing hundreds of dollars instead of thousands.
(B Makowsky Soft Piped Shopper)
The Soft Piped Shopper is made from supersoft and supple leather. Exterior pockets are concealed within the pleats. Concealed magnetic closure. The shoulder strap is removable.
The brand bears the name of Bruce Makowsky, who created the brand along with Kathy Van Zeeland in 2006. B Makowsky bags are really a new phenomenon, in just two years they have experienced extraordinary success in developing the brand.

Where can you buy B. Makowksy handbags ?
The brand is expanding throughout the USA and can be found in major department stores and specialty stores such as :

Macy's, Dillards, Nordstrom, Von Maur and are sold by a number of online outlets.

(B Makowsky Studded Soft Pleated Hobo)
Studded Soft Pleated Hobo The studs follow the contoured lines of this supple leather hobo. Concealed magnetic closure. Interior zip. Wall pockets. Leather.

Home : Designer Handbags

Classic Chanel Handbags

2009-04-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Chanel Designer Handbags

The Parisian fashion house Chanel was created by Coco Chanel in the early part of the 20th century. The first handbag designed by Coco Chanel was the classic chain and quilted leather handbag in 1955.

Coco Chanel continued to work until her death in the 1970’s. The current head designer is Karl Lagerfeld.

Chanel handbags are well-known for their diamond pattern and the signature interlocking double-C.

A number of celebrities are known for their collections of Chanel handbags including Lindsay Lohan, Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz, Jessica Simpson, Paris Hilton, Victoria Beckham, and many more.

Coco Chanel was not only a fashion designer, she is widely recognized as being the very first fashion icon.

Her famous jersey-and-tweed suits brought men's and women's clothing closing together and her designs provided both comfort and style to women. In a time of rampant inequality, Chanel did away with rigid corsets and tight waists, preferring trousers and jackets for women - revealing herself to be a pioneer for women's rights as well as women's fashion.

(Chanel Classic Flap bag)

Coco Chanel was born in 1883 and raised in an orphanage in France. In 1912, she opened her first hat shop which was backed by wealthy aristocrat Arthur Capel. The fame of Chanel's designs slowly grew thanks to word of mouth, even during the Great Depression. Despite the economic problems of the time there were still enough people with enough money to pay $700 for a Chanel designer suit, from one of her stores in Paris or Biarritz.

After the invention of Chanel No. 5 perfume, Chanel became a household name and she started dressing the Hollywood stars of the fifties and sixties such as Katherine Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly.

(Chanel Accordion Flap Designer Handbag)

During the war Chanel became romantically involved with a Nazi officer and fled to Switzerland, and was thereafter exiled from France for fifteen years, returning to fashion in the 1950s.

Coco Chanel died in 1971, leaving her brand in the hands of Karl Lagerfeld, who continues the Chanel style philosophy today.

Chanel are the third most popular of the designer handbags - after Louis Vuitton and Coach, and if they were not so expensive they would probably be even more popular.

For the single most expensive handbag in the world see - Hermes Birking

Home : Designer Handbags

Top Five Designer Handbags

2009-04-09T05:24:00.001-07:00

Designer Handbags - The Most Popular Designer Handbags

Which are the most popular designer handbags ?

Designer handbags are one of the most popular women's fashion accessories. But where did this notion of designer handbags come from? Basically a designer handbag is just a handbag that somebody designed. And given that handbags don't design themselves then every handbag is a designer handbag.

What people mean by designer handbags of course is something totally different. In this status obsessed culture a handbag designed by somebody with a famous name becomes an object of desire, which is far more exciting than a handbag.

(Louis Vuitton Suhali Le Fabuleux Designer Handbag - $4360)

In addition to the famous name, however, a designer handbag also needs to be a high quality handbag and to be fair most of them are. They are of course generally either expensive, very expensive or extremely expensive, which just adds to their mystique and status of course. If you can't afford it, it must be good ! Even if it is rubbish.

So which are the top five designer handbags? If we ignore the subjective matter of taste and personal preference and look just at the figures, then Louis Vuitton is the clear winner.

(Coach Horse and Carriage Designer Handbag -$658)

In handbag and purse forums Louis Vuitton is the most talked about designer brand and in Google it is the most searched for designer handbag manufacturer. The reasons are fairly obvious. First, Louis Vuitton was the first. He started his luggage company in Paris in 1854 amd after his death in 1892 his son Georges developed the company into the first designer handbag manufacturer in the world.

The second most popular designer handbag manufacturer is the US company Coach, in terms of actual sales there may well be more Coach handbags sold than Louis Vuitton, it is difficult to know for certain. For one reason Louis Vuitton handbags are generally far more expensive than Coach handbags. Coach handbags are well-known for their style, their high qualty but also their affordability.

(<....Balenciaga Covered Giant Work $1925)

(Gucci New Jackie $3250.........>)
After Coach, in terms of popularity in the forums it is Chanel , Balenciaga, and Hermes but in terms of searches on Google it is Gucci, Balenciaga and Chanel. It is strange that Gucci handbags should not be in the first five in the forums.
Home : Designer Handbags

Marc Jacobs Designer Handbags

2009-04-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

Designer Handbags - Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton

Marc Jacobs Womens Handbags

Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs are two of the most important names in the world of womens handbags and designer handbags.

Marc Jacobs was born on April 9th, 1963 in New York City, which makes him an Aries. He is currently head designer for Marc Jacobs, and also the Creative Director of the French designer handbag manufacturer Louis Vuitton.

(Louis Vuitton
Monogramouflage Speedy 35
$1,580.00 )

Marc Jacobs is well-known for his own distinctive style and the Monogramouflage was created by collaboration between Marc Jacobs and Japanese artist Takashi Murakami. It was inspired by Murakami's "Magic Ball."
The Monogramouflage is made of coated canvas with leather trim
Rolled leather handles with link attachments
Bright golden hardware
Removable luggage tag; embossed logo reads: "Monogramouflage Édition Limitée Takashi Murakami Louis Vuitton"
Contrasting canvas bands around the bag
Top closure by zip with padlock
Interior pocket
14"x 9"x 7.2"

Jacobs is a well-known celebrity in New York City. His fashion shows attract numerous celebrities and his collections generally make references to the styles of past decades from the '40s to the '80s.

Louis Vuitton

In 1997, Marc Jacobs was appointed Creative Director of luxury designer handbags and accessories manufacturer, Louis Vuitton, for whom he created the company's first ready-to-wear line.

Marc Jacobs likes to collaborate with popular artists for his Louis Vuitton collections and designer handbags and has worked with Steven Sprouse, Takashi Murakami and American artist Richard Prince.

(Louis Vuitton
Monogram Canvas Manhattan GM
$2,180.00)

Inspired by his own leather goods collection, Marc Jacobs' Manhattan GM has chunky gold metal hardware.
Monogram canvas - natural cowhide trim
Chunky Louis Vuitton rivets
Two exterior pockets - push-lock closures
Rounded cowhide straps - square gold metal links
Zipper closure
Buckled leather strap
Storage spaces for mobile phone, wallet, etc...
Taupe alcantara lining
15" x 10.2" x 5.5"

For Dooney and Bourke Handbags see - Dooney and Bourke
Home : Designer Bags

Designer Handbags Privacy Policy

2009-04-07T10:51:00.000-07:00

Designer Handbags - Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

At this site the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by this site and how it is used.

Log Files
Like many other Web sites, this blog makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons
This blog does not use cookies.

DoubleClick DART Cookie

.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on your site.

.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to your users based on their visit to your sites and other sites on the Internet.

.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include .......
Google Adsense

These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on this site send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

This site has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. this site's privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites
Home : Radley Bags

Dooney Bourke Womens Handbags

2009-04-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Dooney and Bourke Handbags

Dooney & Bourke Handbags

Dooney & Bourke - NB spelling it is not Dooney and Burke - specializes in fashion accessories not just handbags, these accessories include iPod cases, bracelets, watches, luggage, and briefcases, plus sweaters, jackets, shoes, and scarves.

Dooney and Bourke handbags and most Dooney and Bourke products are made for women, but there are a few - e.g. sweaters, wallets, belts, briefcases, and someshoes made for men.

(... Dooney & Bourke Small Ashley bag - $385)

Dooney & Bourke was founded in 1975 and sells products which range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Dooney and Bourke handbags are perhaps not as well-known as Coach handbags or Louis Vuitton bags but they nevertheless sell very well and are high quality mid-level products priced so as to be affordable for budget conscious consumers.

The Dooney & Bourke company was launched in 1975 by Peter Dooney and Frederic Bourke in South Norwalk, Connecticut. At present, however, Peter Dooney is reponsible for the day to day running of the company. Frederic Bourke is no longer involved in daily operations, he is on the other hand involved in a court case in which he faces charges of "international bribery".

In another bizarre twist it was reported on May 8 that Frederic Bourke believed that Peter Dooney was secretly injecting him with a “harmful substance.”

When told of the allegations Mr Dooney laughed.

“I haven’t seen the guy in years and years. No secret injections. Categorically denied.”

A curious relationship !

In 1981, Dooney & Bourke decided to make handbags and launched the Tack Case and Equestrian Bag, manufactured from bridle leather. There products are sold throughout the USA and in particular in Brooks Brothers, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue, they also opened The Dooney and Bourke Company Store in Norwalk, Connecticut.

1983 saw the creation of the famous All-Weather Leather (AWL) bag, the first of which featured a duck logo with a russet leather trim.

2006 and 2007 saw the creation of the "Emma Bag," a small bag named after Emma Roberts.

The All-Weather Leather bag is made from cowhide and is waterproof, water just rolls off it. The AWL needs only minimal care. Difficult stains are removed using water and a bar of mild, e.g. Ivory or saddle soap. Take care if using creams to clean or condition the bags as the oils in the creams risk softening the leather and opening the pores, which would negate the effects of the special shrinking process adopted which renders the leather waterproof.

(... Dooney and Bourke Medium Zipper Pocket Sac - $235)

For information on the UK designer bag manufacturer Radley Bags see - Radley Bags

Dooney and Bourke Retail Outlets

Flagship Store
20 E. 60th St. between
Madison & Park Aves.
New York, NY 10022
212 223-7444

White Plains, NY 10601

Dallas, TX 75225

Tokyo
Japan

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Honolulu, HI 96814

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Old San Juan, PR 00091

Macau
China

Las Vegas, NV 89109

Dooney and Bourke Dooney and Burke Dooney & Bourke dooney and bourke handbags womens handbags Designer Handbags

For How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton see Fake Louis Vuitton Bags

Popular Designer Handbags

2009-03-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Coach Handbags, Radley Bags or Louis Vuitton

Womens Leather Handbags

Which are the most popular womens handbags? When it comes to designer handbags it is clear that women have very different ideas about which are the best bags. For sheer volume it appears that Louis Vuitton wins hands down. Louis Vuitton bags are the most searched for on the Internet and the LV name is probably the most famous and respected designer handbag brand in the world. One reason for this is that Louis Vuitton was the first maker of designer handbags and all the rest merely followed Louis Vuitton's example. This has led to a major problem with fake and replica Louis Vuitton handbags - see - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton.

Of all the Louis Vuitton bags available it is probably the classic Louis Vuitton Speedy that most people think of when they think Louis Vuitton.

The LV Monogramouflage was created as a result of collaboration between Japanese artist Takashi Murakami and Louis Vuitton Artistic Director Marc Jacobs and costs $1580.

Louis Vuitton handbags are of course extremely well made and high quality, but they are also very expensive.

On handbag and purse forums the most widely discussed designer handbags tend to be, in the following order

Louis Vuitton
Coach
Chanel
Balenciaga
Hermes
Marc Jacobs
Chloé
Gucci
Rebecca Minkoff
Mulberry
With Louis Vuitton actually being talked about twice as much as Coach and ten times more than Mulberry
Coach Legacy Horse and Carriage Large $658
I'm not surprised to see Coach handbags so high up on the list - Coach leather handbags are extremely well made and last for years but are nowhere near as expensive as Louis Vuitton leather bags. As a result they tend to be seen more on the streets than Louis Vuitton bags, so they may not be so select but if it is quality and a really nice looking leather handbag then Coach is an extremely wise choice.

Another high quality designer handbag maker that is becoming increasingly popular, especially in the UK, although they now also have stores in the US is Radley - see Radley Bags Radley Handbags. Sales of Radley bags are rising all the time. Radley bags tend to be very colourful and their quality is also very high something like Coach leather handbags. So they are well worth looking out for as something in the USA as a designer handbag which is not quite so well-known as the big names such as Louis Vuitton, Coach, Chanel Gucci etc...

Radley Nightingale approx. $450

However as a result of the great success of Radley bags - there are now fakes and replica bags on the market -Radley have taken innovative steps to combat the market in replica Radley bags - see How to Spot Fake Radley Bags

louis vuitton handbags radley bags coach handbags fake designer handbags

Home : Radley Bags

Hermes Handbags Fake Birkin Kelly

2009-03-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - How to Spot a Fake Hermes Bag

Fake or Genuine Hermes Handbags

How to spot a fake Hermes bag or fake designer bags in general ? Designer bags are expensive and sometimes even fake or replica bags are expensive too ! But designer bags are expensive for a reason, they use high quality materials and require a lot of work to make them. So you want to make sure that the designer handbag you are buying is genuine and not a fake. For information on how to spot a fake LV bag see - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag - for how to spot a fake Radley bag see - How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag

(...Hermes Birkin Bag Crocodile with Diamonds)

This post deals with how to spot fake Hermes bags.

First and foremost pay very close attention to details. If you can, go to a Hermes store and check out their bags. In addition here are some pointers that may help :

The stitching must be high quality and even (Hermes bags take time to make)

There should be "Hermès Paris, Made in France" gilt or blind stamped on the front face

There should be craftsman's marks and a letter for the year of manufacture stamped beneath the right belt in a square. The condition and history of bag should ne appropriate for year of manufacture.

(...Hermes Kelly Bag made famous by actress grace Kelly in the 1950s)

The interior leather zipper tag must be parallel to the zip, not at right angles to it.

If a buyer has lots of Hermes Birkins they will be fakes, Birkins are very rare.

Hermes uses only the finest quality leather so take a very good look at the leather, if it looks cheap then it isn't authentic.

Hermes bags are never sold with a paper hangtag.

A genuine Hermes Kelly or Birkin comes with an engraved lock and key set. The lock has "Hermes" on the bottom and the keys have a number which matches the lock number. It also has Hermes on the reverse.

Hermes does not use a metal nameplate inside the bag.

Hermes dustbags are now heavy orange cotton flannel, older bags sometimes have a tan velour dustbag with a design that is slightly different.

Older well-used Birkins will cost $4,000 - 6,000 depending on the condition of the leather, hardware and stitching.

Newer Birkins will probably cost close $7,000 - 13,000 or even more.

So happy hunting! I would recommend visiting the Hermes site, but it is awful so I really can't recommend you waste your time looking round there, so check out the competition instead ! womens handbags how to spot a fake hermes bag genuine hermes handbags

Home : Radley Bags

Popular Womens Handbags Classics

2009-03-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Designer Handbags To Stand the Test of Time

Sales of womens handbags remain strong even in difficult economic times. Sales of clothes may suffer but sales of handbags, particularly designer handbags actually increase!

Last year Burberry reported sales of accessories up 32%. Armani saw unprecedented sales growth of over 30% and recently Louis Vuitton reported strong sales of its designer handbags.
Womens handbags also stand the test of time - according to Forbes magazine eight designer handbags that will stand the test of time and therefore represent good investments are :

The Chanel 2.5 Quilted Bag - price around $3,495

Designed by Coco Chanel herself, the 2.5 bag is available in seasonal colors or black. Brand new or handd down over generations it will complement any outfit, especially the classic little black dress.

Louis Vuitton Speedy Cube Bag - price around $2,000

An innovation of the classic best-selling Louis Vuitton Speedy bag. The latest version is a mixture of tradition and trend. A useful and gorgeous timeless designer handbag.

The Lowry Bag by Burberry - price around $2,995 This could well become a timeless classic like the Trench - and if you can afford it then you may like to exchange $23,000 for the corrugated alligator bag.

Mulberry Roxanne Bag - retail price: $695

The Roxanne by Mulberry is very popular and exists in a wide range of models including patent leather and snakeskin.

Giorgio Armani Clutch - retail Price: $8,195

Small and perfectly formed. The Armani clutch is anothe rtimeless classic.

Fendi Baguette Retail price: $3,790 The Baguette, which was first introduced in 1997, is said to have given rise to a whole new generation of bag fanatics. Models of the Baguette include versions in printed canvas and mink.

Prada Bag - retail price $2,500

Launched in Fall/Winter of 2008 it will no doubt prove to be one of Prada's best-sellers.

Ralph Lauren Ricky Bag - retail price $3,495The Ricky bag is the very epitome of American elegance and class. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes including alligator.

For information on Radley designer handbags see - How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag
Bear in mind also that the current economic climate means that there are lots of sales on at the moment - so keep an eye open for bargains ! Sometimes you can get as much as 50% off designer handbags !

Home : Designer Handbags

Spot a Fake Radley Bag

2009-03-15T14:21:00.001-07:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag

Radley bags are apparently the best-sellng UK designer handbags. Unfortunately their popularity has meant that they have become a target for counterfeiters. So if you are looking for genuine Radley bag then you need to look out for the following.

(.... Radley Handbag Camber Sands)

Radley introduced a new authentication label on all Radley bags in Autumn/Winter 2008. The label takes the form of an LCD printed label that contains a form of Mirage technology. The colour of the Radley dog logo changes from light to dark when it is lifted to the light. Radley are the first designer handbag brand to introduce this type of advanced security.

(...Radley Handbag Marsden)

All Radley handbags also have an aluminium Radley dog logo inside, embossed with the name ‘RADLEY’. The word 'Radley' should also be embossed onto the leather square underneath.
The Scottie dog tag on a genuine Radley bag is attached so that you can easily remove it. On fake Radley handbags the tag is often difficult or impossible to remove.
Radley bags and purses are sold with a glossy, cardboard label on the outside, with no dog on it.
Radley handbags only have the word 'Radley' embossed on the dog hanging on the outside of the bag on the tag.
Radley handbags also usually are sold with a kit of leather care products.
Radley bags come in a dustbag with drawstring.

Marc Jacobs Handbag Sale

2009-03-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - Marc Jacobs Handbag Sale

If you are looking for a bargain Marc Jacobs designer handbag but are not interested in buying a fake handbag - for information on fake designer bags see - Fake Louis Vuitton Designer Handbags then you may be interested in the sale of Marc Jacobs designer handbags currently under way at eluxury.com

Eluxury are recogized supplies of genuine designer handbags by big name handbag manufacturers such as Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs

There are great Marc Jacobs handbag bargains to be had - see list below

Carter Jr Rose $699 instead of $1195
Carter Jr Gray $699 instead of $1195
Sethi Stripes Suivi Bag $629 instead of $1250
Daydream Diamond Bag $649 instead of $1295
Mercer East/West Tote $909 instead of $1295
Patchwork Amanda $999 instead of $1699
Rolls-Royce fold over clutch $749 instead of $1495

Suede Flower Handbag $749 instead of $1495
Home : Radley Bags

Radley Bags and Handbags

2009-03-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Radley Bags and Handbags

Radley Handbags

The Radley name and its Scottie dog logo may not be well as known as the more famous designer handbag manufacturers such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Coach etc... but their popularity has grown consistently amongst discerning customers since their launch in 1998 and Radley bags are now the biggest selling British handbag brand.

(..... Radley Handbag Durdle Door - $390)

Their head office is in London but you can now buy Radley bags in selected Bloomingdales and Lord & Taylor stores in the USA or you can visit their USA website at trulyradleydeeply.com

As they explain on their UK website radley.co.uk - they are devoted to "making beautiful things that women can fall in love with". Radley bags and handbags are known for their individual creativity. Radley's designers seek to ensure "original design, exceptional hand-crafting, distinctive pattern work, extraordinary colour schemes and unusual textures"

How do Radley define creativity ? As "lighting fires of inspiration and doing our job with passion and .... being stimulated by the world outside the window as well as the world inside our head."

At Radley they consider their handbags to be "works of art and ourselves as artists, because having a vision is our biggest asset."

They also state that colour is "the essence of Radley" and that they use colour to "capture humour, or display an emotion. To give off attitude or make a statement. To add character and enrich. To bring fun into our lives and onto our products."

Radley bags aim for originality and an element of surprise as they consider it is "better to fail in originality than suceed in imitation".

(.... Radley Handbag Blyth $295)

They don't cut corners but they are not extravagant their watchword being "Creativity without extravagance", as a result their handbags are high quality products at an affordable price.

Radley handbags tend to be bright with distinctive details and new shapes, using richly coloured leathers and a variety of materials. Great attention is paid to detail throughout.

Radley Bags Spring collection this year is a collection of soft textured leather bags and creative hand-crafted detail with an emphasis on light Summer shades of ivory, yellow and pale pink, with "vibrant apple green highlights".

The collection has proved itself a great hit with the fashion press and has already been featured in Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire and Elle Accessories.

(.... Radley Handbag Pocket Bag $175)

The bags featured include the gorgeous Nightingale tote that is luxuriously soft and slouchy, the curvaceous Belgrave tote and the best-selling Grosvenor satchel, which is back this season in a striking pillar-box red and light tan.

The popularity of the Radley brand means however that there are fakes on the market. So how can you spot a fake Radley bag ? First, if the Scottie dog logo has the Radley name on it then the bag is a fake. Radley do not put their name on the dog, except on the cardboard tag hanging outside the bag.

Another indicator is that Radley includes a leather care package with every Radley Bag sold.

Prices for Radley bags in the US range from $145 up to $390

For information on fake Louis Vuitton bags see - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton
ladies leather handbags radley bags radley handbags

Home : Designer Handbags
Home : Radley Bags

What are Vintage Handbags?

2009-03-05T12:57:00.000-08:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - Vintage Handbags

What is a Vintage Handbag?

The present day handbag first saw light of day in the nineteenth century when women found it fashionable to own a choice of bags to match their dresses - for the story of the first Louis Vuitton bags see - Louis Vuitton bags.

In the early 20th century handbags became more complicated and by the 1920s the majority of women were carying purses with them but not many had one for each dress. In the 1950s and 60s designers like Dior, Vuitton, Chanel and Coach made handbags and purses an essential fashion item.

Vintage handbags therefore refer to any time before the 1980s and are often collected in the same way as people collect jewelry or books.

Other people however buy vintage handbags to use them. Designer handbags are exceptionally well made and bags like Patricia's Legacy have become timeless classics
For some people, to be a true vintage bag a handbag has to be designer handbag.

One of the most famous vintage handbags is the Hermes Kelly Bag.

The Kelly bag had been manufactured since 1935 under the name "Sac à dépêches" but it became famous in 1956 when Hollywood actress and Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly used her Hermes bag to hide her pregnant stomach from the paparazzi.

Photographs were circulated throughout the world and made it to the cover of Life magazine.

Grace Kelly was such an influential figure at the time that the handbag became known as the “Kelly” bag.

According to the Miller’s Handbags Collector’s Guide a vintage Hermes Kelly bag can fetch anything from $3,000 - $6,000.

There are 5 different sizes of Kelly bags, which can be made from alligator, crocodile, plain leather or ostrich-skin. Miller’s guide states that they can be identified by their trademark metal-tipped clasp, and tiny padlock. The clasp's concealed key is often covered in leather and hangs from the handle.

Each individual Kelly bag is manufactured by a single craftsman and required 18 hours work.

The Hermès Kelly bag is but one of a long line of collectable vintage handbags.
Home : Radley Bags

Fake Louis Vuitton Designer Handbags

2009-03-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag

How to Spot a Replica Handbag?

A question I am often asked by people looking for ladies leather handbags is how can I spot a fake handbag ? Or how can I spot a replica handbag ? Or how can I tell if my handbag is genuine or a fake ? Or for specific brands how can I spot a replica or fake Louis Vuitton or even Louis Viton or a fake Marc Jacobs ?

This is understandable as genuine designer handbags cost a lot of money so people are naturally worried.

Firstly you need to apply some good old common sense. If it is too cheap it is a fake. It's as simple as that.

(..... Louis Vuitton Suhali Le Fabuleux $4360 )

Secondly some designers have had enough of combating fake bags or replica purses, so they now only sell their handbags in their own stores or online at their own Internet site. This is the case with Louis Vuitton for example.

Online the only place you can be absolutely sure of getting a genuine Louis Vuitton handbag is at the Louis Vuitton website - eluxury.

There are some traders on the famous online auction site whose name I shall not mention, who claim to sell genuine Louis Vuitton bags and it is possible that some of them are indeed selling genuine bags and purses, but how can you be absolutely sure?

Thirdly, when trying to decide if the bag you are about to buy is a genuine designer handbag or a replica then, in addition to the price, you need to pay careful attention to the quality.

Genuine designer handbags are expensive for a reason, they are made with great attention to detail.

First, beware of any bag wrapped in plastic or bubble wrap, this is not the material of choice for wrapping expensive designer bags and purses. Second, designer handbags are works of art, there should be no wrinkles, creases, poor quality stitching, asymmetrical logos etc... everything needs to be perfect. Imperfect designer handbags are not tolerated.

For Louis Vuitton bags if there is a cheap looking circular tag made of plastic then steer clear, and most genuine dust bags only have the Louis Vuitton or LV logo. They do not have cheap tan, plastic or suede interiors and the patterns on Louis Vuitton bags are always lined up correctly.

The Louis Vuitton website explains that LV products are only available at Louis Vuitton stores - or from their offical website. Louis Vuitton leather handbags and other leather goods such as purses etc... are made in France, the USA or Spain, not the Far East, by experienced craftsmen who pay extreme attention to detail and use only the finest materials. That is why they are so expensive - but they also last a long time.

(......... Louis Vuitton Mahina XXL $ 4210)

Also if somebody has a large stock of Louis Vuitton handbags then they are probably fakes, Louis Vuitton do not make vast amounts of their bags and certainly do not allow uncertified traders to have large stocks of them.

I hope this information has been of help

You can of course always buy something that looks like a genuine designer handbag but isn't if that is what you want, just don't pay too much money for it!

For further information see - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Handbag

For tips on How to Spot a Fake Radley Bag see - Radley Bags and Handbags
louis vuitton fake handbags lv replica bags fake designer handbags

Coach's Patricia's Legacy Leather Handbag

2009-02-28T08:59:00.000-08:00

LADIES LEATHER HANDBAGS - COACH PATRICIA'S LEGACY BAG

Patricia's Legacy - Coach Ladies Leather Handbags

This leather handbag was designed over four decades ago and women still consider it to be “the original Coach bag”. It has become a classic and an essential part of a lot of women's Coach collection.
PATRICIA'S LEGACY BAG

Inside back open compartment
Front pocket under flap
Zip-top closure under flap
Inside pocket
Glove tanned leather
50" adjustable strap
11 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 4 3/8

Also available in black

Price: $298

Janice's Legacy is similar in style to Patricia's Legacy

JANICE'S LEGACY

Inside open pocket
Glove tanned leather
Zip-top closure
48” adjustable strap detaches
10 3/4 x 10 x 4 1/2
Also available in black
Price: $248

Home : Designer Handbags

Spot Fake Louis Vuitton Bags

2009-02-28T07:56:00.001-08:00

Womens Handbags - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag Part 2

Genuine and Replica Louis Vuitton Bags and Purses

There are lots of fake Louis Vuitton bags around - around 99% of LV goods are fakes they say - the only place you can be absolutely sure of getting a genuine Louis Vuitton bag or purse is in a Louis Vuitton store on their official Louis Vuitton website. Ordinary ladies leather handbags are often masqueraded as genuine designer handbags so make sure you know what to look out for.

For all the details on how to spot a fake LV check out this post - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag - for a quick and easy solution to recognizing a genuine Louis Vuitton ladies handbag have a look at this excellent video

Courtesy VideoJug

For information on how to take care of a Louis Vuitton bag see Louis Vuitton Handbag Care
For information on how to repair a Louis Vuitton bag see How to Repair a Louis Vuitton bag

Home : Designer Handbags

Makowsky Fine Womens Leather Handbags

2009-02-26T19:54:00.000-08:00

Womens Leather Handbags - B. Makowsky Fine Leather Handbags

Luxury Womens Leather Handbags

If you are looking for a fine quality leather handbag that won't cost you the earth then take a look at Bruce Makowsky's womens leather handbags. Bruce Makowsky launched his range of affordable, luxurious leather handbags, with his wife Kathy Van Zeeland in 2006 and his bags are proving increasingly popular.

The majority of B. Makowsky bags sell for below $200 and comprise elegant and timeless leather handbags made from the finest Japanese "drum dyed leathers" with hardware that is designed by hand.

The characteristic feature of Bruce Makowsky womens leather handbags is their soft, supple leather, combined with chunky hardware and signature lining.

Colors include a mixture of simple blacks, browns and ivory with fresh colors such as denim, freesia, saffron, and coral.

The aim is to create luxury leather handbags that will still look good three years after their purchase.

The B. Makowsky Lisbon Shopper

For leather handbags by Coach click here - Coach womens leather handbags

Home : Designer Handbags

Leather Luggage Reviews

2009-02-25T18:17:00.000-08:00

Leather Luggage and Womens Leather Handbags

Which is the best leather luggage?

If you are looking for stylish leather luggage the question of which manufacturer provides the best is a subjective matter. We each have our own opinions. Personally I feel that Coach in addition to making excellent womens leather handbags also make excellent leather luggage as well as all their other leather products.

One of Coach's latest pieces of leather luggage is the new HARRISON LEATHER MEDIUM CARRYALL

It is a carryall made of weather resistant leather with an inside zip pocket, a zip top closure, fabric lining and a 43" detachable shouder strap with 6.5" handles.

Dimensions are 22 x 12 x 9 .

Coach designer leather goods are excellent and if you can afford them then clearly an excellent choice for leather luggage with a note of distinction. Price is around $798.

If you are looking for quality leather luggage at a more affordable price without the well-known designer name then take a look at the David King Leather Luggage Deluxe Weekend Duffel. This is handcrafted from Vacquetta leather and is rich and elegant.

It has a leather top and handles with leather wrap and removable adjustable leather strap. Two zippered end pockets. Hardware fittings in matte silver. Large U zippered opening, with zippered interior pocket.

Dimensions 15.5" x 22.5" x 11" - Price around $125.

Click here for information about Coach womens leather handbags

coach handbags coach luggage leather luggage

High Quality Coach Leather Handbags

2009-02-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

Womens Handbags - Coach Leather Handbags Fake or Genuine

How to Spot a Fake Coach Ladies Leather Handbag

Coach leather handbags are some of the most popular handbags in the world. And often if you are interested in womens leather handbags once you have bought a Coach handbag you are often reluctant to buy any other. The problem is, however, that there are lots of fake Coach handbags and purses on sale so if you are in the market for genuine Coach bags - take care.

The important thing to look for, as with any designer handbag is the quality of the materials used and the quality of the workmanship. Coach use only the best quality leather bags which get softer and more pliable with age.

It is also worth remembering that although Coach produce quality ladies leather handbags it is company policy that they shall produce them at an affordable price.

If you are trying to distinguish whether a Coach ladies handbag is a fake or the genuine article check out the following points. Coach bags and purses always have high quality stitching and the patterns usually start from the middle of the bag.

(...Coach Madison Metallic Leather Handbag - $458)

If you see crooked patterns or slipshod stitching then it is not a genuine Coach handbag.

Coach purses and ladies handbags have a very unique feel so you need to look at a lot of Coach bags that you are know are genuine to know what to expect.

Fakes are generally made of low quality cheaper leather.

(... Coach Madison Metallic Leather Slim Envelope Wallet - $248)

Coach always use high quality zips and they always pay attention to even the smallest details.

There is also the question of price Coach handbags and purses are not outrageously expensive, but they are also not cheap, so if you see one for a really low price, then common sense tells you that it is obviously not a genuine Coach bag.

Click here for further information on Coach ladies leather handbags for information on other designer handbags click here to see How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton

Womens Leather Hobo Handbags

2009-02-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - Leather Hobo Handbags

What is a hobo bag ?

A hobo bag or hobo handbag is generally a large and unstructured bag that is shaped like a half circle or a curve or crescent and has a long shoulder strap

(.... Coach Penelope Leather Hobo Handbag - $398))

Hobo handbags are very popular with celebrities and the glitterati who like the bohemian chic or boho chic style.

Hobo bags are large bags that are made of soft materials. They generally have a zip top and a shoulder strap and as they are soft they collapse when laid down. Ladies leather hobo handbags are probably the most popular in the same way as womens leather handbags are the most popular type of designer bag,

Practically all the designer handbag manufacturers make leather hobo handbags such as Louis Vuitton Mahina, Coach Penelope, Burberry and the Gucci Jockey.

(.... Gucci Jockey Leather Hobo Handbag - $3550)

Large leather hobo bags are ideal for carrying large amounts of personal items, combining fashion and glamour with practicality. Hobo bags tend to have a single compartment but it is sometimes better to find one that has two compartments.

Hobo bags are made from a variety of different fabrics. Ladies leather hobo bags can be made in different colours and leather bags are always popular as they are pliable and hard wearing. Other fabrics such as canvas are used but leather hobo handbags tend to be the most popular, there are also bags made from imitation leather for people who think that leather handbags are cruel to animals.

(... Louis Vuitton Mahina Leather Hobo Handbag - $4210)

Prices for hobo bags vary widely - from a few dollars to several thousand dollars for designer hobo handbags from the top names such as Gucci, Burberry and Louis Vuitton.

(... Burberry Leather Hobo Bag $2,395.00)

For leather handbag stores check out the links.

Home : Designer Handbags

Aspinals New Womens Leather Handbags

2009-02-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

Ladies Leather Handbags - Aspinals Leather Handbags

Womens Leather Handbags by Aspinals of London

Aspinals have launched their new range of designer ladies leather handbags.

(.... Aspinal's Mariya Leather Handbag - £650)

They are adding five new leather handbags to their Designer Leather Handbag range...
The Aspinal Swarovski Clutch - with hand set Swarovski crystals.
The Brit Tote - a beautiful tote that will certainly turn heads.
The Aspinal Eaton Bag - classic timeless appeal, luxury and style.
The Mariya Bag - pure luxury - the most sophisticated bag ever.
And the Eaton Evening Clutch as special as a piece of jewellery.

The Paris Handbag is large and roomy.

The Manhattan Clutch bag is worn on red carpets worldwide.
The Mayfair is a 50s inspired elegant statement.

The Milan handbag has long shoulder straps or a heavy chain and can also be an evening clutch.

The Tassel Tote Bag is absolutely beautiful.

(... Aspinal's Barbarella Leather Handbag £375)

All Aspinal's ladies leather handbags are handmade. Only the finest leather is used. All our zips and fittings are solid Brass or Nickel and the hidden pockets are silk-lined. Aspinals women's leather handbags are uncompromising in their quality and style and represent stunning womens leather handbags for all occasions at affordable prices. Starting at £235.

Home : Designer Handbags

Bargain Leather Handbags

2009-02-04T18:59:00.000-08:00

Women's Leather Handbags - Bargain Women's Leather Handbags

Leather Handbags for Women With Taste

While wandering around the Internet looking for leather bag bargains, I came across this excellent site - New Territory Leathers - they claim on their site that their "women's leather handbags, leather purses, leather shoulderbags" are handmade.

They only buy from the best, sich as Ellington Leather and Hobo International, plus their newest suppliers Paige Wallace Designs for Marushka.

All their bags are supplied with solid brass hardware (and some even have nickle plate over the brass). Their women's leather handbags have adjustable shoulder straps, multiple interior/exterior pockets.

The leather they use is chosen from the best tanneries, and is scratch resistant. The leather is also permanently dyed to last, whilst at the same time being supple and sturdy.

All their leather items are supplied with a one year warranty against defects in materials or craftsmanship.
Home : Designer Handbags

Repairing Louis Vuitton Handbags

2009-02-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

Women's Leather Handbags - Louis Vuitton Repairs

How to Repair a Louis Vuitton Bag

If you have a Louis Vuitton bag, whether it's a womens leather handbag or something else, you may after a while, need to get something repaired, such as the strap or a buckle or a zip. This shouldn't happen very often, as genuine Louis Vuitton leather bags are extremely high quality, if it is a fake of course that is a different matter. For information on how to know if your LV bag is real or a fake see - How to Spot a Fake LV Bag

So how to repair a Louis Vuitton ?

You must absolutely take it or send it to a Louis Vuitton retail outlet, if you have the repairs carried out at a local non Louis Vuitton shop, Louis Vuitton will either refuse to carry out further repairs or will insist on re-repairing the repairs, as they will consider that the item has been altered. To retain the value of the bag all repairs must be carried out by LV, even for tiny jobs such as repairing loose stitching.

(............ Louis Vuitton Surya XL $3360.00)

You should also know that Louis Vuitton repairs are expensive and slow e.g. a lining for a pocket in a purse will cost at least $100. Zips cost at least $50.

A complicated repair can take as long as 2 or 3 months. So while your Louis Vuitton bag is away being cared for you will probably need to buy another one at least.
Home : Designer Handbags

Women's Leather Handbags

2009-01-30T17:05:00.000-08:00

Designer Handbags - Ladies Leather Handbags - Quality and Luxury

High quality ladies leather handbags are alway popular as gifts. They appeal to women as both a thing of beauty and practicality and of course as a fashion statement. The best designer handbags from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Coach, etc... are made from specially treated high quality leather.

Designers are endlessly seeking new forms and style and instigating new fashions in leather handbags, as a result ladies handbags are made in a wide variety of styles - clutches, totes, hobo. The dyes used can create leather handbags of almost any colour.

Quality ladies leather handbags offer style and durability. They can also be a good investment as if they are well-made they can even be re-sold years later and the cost recovered.

Quality leather requires appropriate care and treatment - leather handbag care - if a leather bag is not cared for correctly it can deteriorate over time.

The first thing to do when looking after a leather bag is to remove any moisture and dirt with a soft cloth, following which a leather cleaner can be used. .

If you are looking for a designer leather handbag then bear in mind that lots of designer handbags on sale are fakes. To be absolutely sure of buying a genuine designer handbag from Louis Vuitton it is better to visit their official site, as they do not make their bags available on the Internet.

It is also important to know how to spot a fake Louis Vuitton handbag . Fakes often look convincing but the devil is in the details, the quality of the stitching etc... and the price, if the price is too good to be true then it probably is and the bag is likely to be fake.

Home : Designer Handbags

Totes and Tote bags

2009-01-30T08:41:00.000-08:00

Womens Handbags - Totes and Tote Bags

What is a tote bag?

A tote bag is basically a capacious bag or carry-all, which can be carried over the shoulder if the handles are long enough.

Nowadays tote bags are produced from a large variety of different materials, cotton, canvas, nylon and leather, and in different shapes and sizes. Some new totes are made of vinyl or vylon (nylon nacked with vinyl).

One of the major manufacturers of high quality totes is Coach.

Coach totes or tote bags are high quality durable women's handbags inspired by the American baseball glove, that gets softer with use. Coach has a reputation for making high quality totes and designer bags at an affordable price.

Coach also makes designer handbags, belts, shoes, jewelry, wallets, scarves, hats, sunglasses, key rings, gloves, men's accessories, planners, travel bags, and much more.

Coach Totes

Totes are highly popular and versatile and Coach totes have everything you would expect from a tote bag, including:-

Reinforced high quality leather handles.
Reinforced corners.
Stylish trims
Luxury linings.
Lightweight and sturdy.
Exterior and interior pockets.
Dual or single handles
Zips or clasps to close the tote
Very roomy

Materials
Coach uses only the hghest quality materials to make its totes and handbags. The leather used to make Coach totes comes from the top 10% of leather made for manufacturing. It is tanned in drums with natural treatments which procude the specil Coach look.

The modern style SoHo Tote has braided or dual leather handles amd large side pockets. The Kathy Travel Tote is an elegant striped tote with elegant gold leather detailing. The Gallery Tote is a tote bag with thin straps, ring accents, buckle detailing and slim external pockets with closures.

Further information on Coach women's handbags

coach handbags
designer bags
Women's Handbags

coach totes
coach tote bags
Home : Designer Handbags

Coach New Leather Handbags Spring

2009-01-15T16:44:00.000-08:00

Womens Handbags - New Coach Spring Leather Handbags

Women's Handbags by Coach

The design of Coach handbags is based on the baseball glove design, which becomes more supple over time as it is used.

Coach Penelope Spectator Large Shopper $698

Coach women's designer handbags are very high quality and are beautiful to look at while remaining functional - seams and handles are double-stitched, and only the finest leathers are used.

Coach Penelope Leather Shopper $398

The manufacturing process for Coach leather handbags involves rotating the leather in large drums for days to soften it whilst at the same time enriching it with fats, clear aniline dyes and natural plant extracts,

Coach has just created its spring catalogue of handbags and totes. Some of these bags are illustrated here. For further information on Coach designer handbags and their history see - Coach Affordable Designer Handbags

Coach Penelope Leather Satchel $448
How To Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag
Coach handbags Coach totes Designer Handbags

Fake Louis Vuitton Bags

2009-01-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

Designer Bags and Handbags - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton - Video

Spotting Fake Louis Vuitton Designer Bags

Louis Vuitton designer bags are among the most expensive in the world but it is estimated that around 99% of Louis Vuitton products that people buy are fakes.

So how can you spot a fake Louis Vuitton designer bag? You can read my previous post here - How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag -

or you can have a look at this video (or you can do both of course).

How To Spot A Fake Louis Vuitton Bag

Home : Designer Handbags

Eva Longoria and Gerard Darel

2008-06-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

Womens Leather Handbags - Eva Longoria and Gerard Darel

Eva Longoria, full name Eva Jacqueline Longoria Parker who plays Gabrielle Solis in Desperate Housewives appears to like Gerard Darel bags (which is no doubt good news for Gerard) - so here are a few pics snapped of Eva Longoria sporting the designer bags in question - some people apparently get jealous or envious or obsessive about bags, if you are that type of person please look away now.

Home : Designer Handbags

Other designer handbag brands : Radley Handbags

Yves Saint Laurent Dies

2008-06-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Yves Saint Laurent Dies

Yves Saint Laurent, one of the major designers of the 20th century, who liberated women by creating a contemporary wardrobe died Sunday night at the age of 71 after a long illness.

He was born Yves-Mathieu Saint-Laurent on August 1 1936 in Oran, Algeria, became famous very early on in his career.

He arrived in Paris at the age of 17, where he became an assistant to Christian Dior in 1954, then his successor, after Christian Dior’s untimely death in 1957.

YSL’s very first fashion show in 1958 was a resounding success with his "Trapèze" line which broke with the ‘wasp’ shape that was fashionable at the time.

In 1961, he created his own fashion house in partnership with Pierre Bergé. Together, one the creator the other the manager, they built an empire with a logo of three black letters on a cream-coloured background which was to travel round the world.

He retired from the world of fashion in 2002 after 40 years of success and emblematic models such as the trouser suit.

Home : Designer Handbags

Louis Vuitton Limited Edition Bag

2008-06-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

Radley Handbags - 50 Exclusive Limited Edition Louis Vuitton Bags on Sale

From 26 June - 7 September Louis Vuitton on Sloane Street in London, England will be selling 50 Limited Edition ostrich and canvas Jamais handbags, designed by Marc Jacobs and Richard Prince to celebrate Richard Prince's first major UK solo exhibition. The designer bags will be priced at approx. $17,800 so start saving, but as there are only 50 being made it will undoubtedly be a rare collector's item

There will also be an exhibition of Richard Prince’s latest work at the Serpentine Gallery in Hyde Park in Central London. This is not the first time that art collector/designer Marc Jacobs has worked with an artist for Louis Vuitton. He worked with Takashi Murkami to transform a classic LV monogram into a bag with candy colours and cartoon eyes

Profits from the sale of the Limited Edition Jamais bags will be donated to the Serpentine Gallery.

Home : Radley Handbags

Most Expensive Handbag in the World

2008-05-27T12:14:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Which is the Most Expensive Designer Handbag in the World?

Ever wondered which is the most expensive designer handbag in the world which you could actually buy? I would have thought a Louis Vuitton but there are two contenders apparently and neither of them is a Louis Vuitton. According to Forbes magazine, which has a list of the top 10 most expensive bags the most expensive bag is the Chanel 'Diamond Forever at $261,000 '
(Chanel Diamond Forever - +/- $261,000)

but it would appear that Forbes may have forgotten about the Hermes Birkin created by Japanese designer Ginza Tanaka at a price of $1.63 million to make, it has 2,182 diamonds totaling 208 carats.

(Hermes Birkin by Ginza Tanaka - $1.63M)

Click here to see all ten of the top ten most expensive handbags in the world
Home : Radley Handbags

Louis Vuitton Handbag Care

2007-11-12T18:45:00.000-08:00

Womens Leather Handbags - How To Look After Louis Vuitton Leather Goods and Designer Bags

To preserve the beauty of your leather handbags, totes, purses and designer bags Louis Vuitton recommend the following care instructions

- avoid contact with abrasive surfaces and protect from shocks of any kind
- protect from moisture and avoid direct exposure to sunlight and heat
- to clean, wipe the leather with a soft dry cloth
- never use soap or solvent

in the event of an incident contact any Louis Vuitton store

How long does it take to repair Louis Vuitton designer bags ?

Instore service and repairs are generally completed within 3 days. Standard repairs may take one month. Exceptional repair to items may take up to 3 months

CAN LEATHER GOODS BE REPAIRED INDEFINITELY ?

Louis Vuitton will service or repair leather goods as long as spare parts are available. For discontinued items spare parts will remain available within the following time frames –
- hard sided luggage : no limit
- soft luggage and briefcases : 15 years
- small leather goods and bags : 10 years
- Louis Vuitton cup leather goods : 5 years
- seasonal bags : 3 years

WILL LOUIS VUITTON EVER BE UNABLE TO REPAIR LEATHER HANDBAGS ?

Louis Vuitton say that they cannot offer service or repair in the following cases :-

- the item was previously serviced or repaired by a non-Louis Vuitton agent
- spare parts are no longer available
- the customer requests a change of style that would alter the original design of the item
- the item is in poor condition, or repair is not expected to last more than one year

Click here for information on How To Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag
louis vuitton care look after louis vuitton bag leather+goods+care

Kodak's New Fake Buster TRACELESS Technology

2007-08-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Kodak's New Fake Buster TRACELESS Technology

The business of fakes in general and fake designer handbags in particular is big business. It is estimated that 90% of all Louis Vuitton designer handbags sold, for example, are fakes. There is also the far more serious problem of fake medicines and toothpaste made in China which may contain the poisonous chemical diethylene glycol.

Now Kodak has come up with a way of beating the counterfeiters and manufacturers of fakes, that may put them out of business altogether. Their system is based on the premiss that counterfeiters can’t copy what they can’t find. The Kodak TRACELESS System is a "forensically invisible authentication technology" that uses a combination of proprietary markers and handheld readers to enable customers to easily check, in the field, to see if an item is authentic.

The System creates items that are equipped with unique material properties that can only be detected using Kodak’s reading technologies.

In case you were cynically thinking that this is all Kodak marketing hype then think again. The anticounterfeiting solution has just received the prestigious InterTech Technology Award from the PIA/GATF, the world’s largest graphic arts trade organization.

Jeffrey Hayzlett, Chief Marketing Officer, Kodak’s Graphic Communications Group said “Our customers and the InterTech judges recognize that the TRACELESS System is an easy to implement yet highly effective way to fight back against the threat of counterfeiting to brands and consumers.”

The marker materials used by the TRACELESS System can be mixed with inks, toners, varnishes, paper pulp, plastics, powders, pigments, liquids and textiles and other items for analog and KODAK digital printing applications. Users have secure control of the markers, the readers and associated software. Counterfeiters are therefore prevented from duplicating the products or their packaging.

Kodak’s technology can help reduce counterfeiting in virtually every industry sector from currency to product safety labels.

According to Steve Powell from Kodak. “The KODAK TRACELESS System is easy to implement, virtually impossible to reverse engineer, and affordable for mass implementation.”

KODAK Markers

Can be integrated into numerous host materials without impacting their material characteristics

Can only be detected using TRACELESS Readers — they are undetectable by standard optical, forensic, or chemical analysis

TRACELESS Readers are precision built and extremely reliable, durable, and accurate

The system makes reverse engineering virtually impossible

The same marker and reader offer multiple levels of security —basic pass/fail or additional levels (confidential disclosure only)

The system can be customized to meet individual requirements

The TRACELESS System is already being used by customers for a wide variety of applications including:

Fashion apparel and accessories

Pharmaceuticals

Premium wines and spirits

Cosmetics

Documents and identification

So there may finally be a solution on the horizon to the widespread problem of fakes in all areas. In the meantime, while we are waiting for the readers to become widely available you may wish to check out How To Spot Fake Louis Vuitton Bags
kodak traceless system fake detection counterfeit vuitton intertech award

Home : Designer Handbags

Coach - Affordable American Luxury Handbags

2007-08-06T15:27:00.001-07:00

Women's Leather Handbags - Coach - Affordable American Luxury Handbags

Patricia's Legacy Bag $298

Coach Inc. is an American leather goods company, which started out as a family-owned business in a loft in Manhattan, New York in 1941. It is most well-known for its ladies' leather handbags, but it also produces other items for both men and women, such as luggage, briefcases, wallets, and accessories (belts, shoes, silk scarves, umbrellas, sunglasses, key chains, etc.), watches, shoes, and even office furniture

Coach designer bags and leather products are expensive, but extremely well-made, using a high-quality leather and sturdy metal rivets and hardware (often solid brass – solid gold would be nice (Ed.)).

Carly Leather Bag $498

The Coach website states “Our glove-tanned pieces are crafted from natural leather which burnishes over time, acquiring a rich, lustrous patina … each style features signature details such as distinctive hardware, double-needle stitching and bound edges. The shapes soften gradually to the touch, taking on the individual imprint of the wearer.

Coach leather goods will often last 15 years or more with proper care, and some of the original Coach bags from the 1970s are still intact and in regular use. One of the outstanding features of the Coach company is that they will repair any Coach product all you have to do is to ship it back to the home office for a nominal fee, with a letter describing the problem.

The original designer for Coach was the American designer, Bonnie Cashin. In 1960, Miles and Lillian Cahn, the owners of a wholesale handbag manufacturing business, decided to create a retail collection.

Chelsea Hair Calf Satchel $898

They invited Cashin to become their designer. She declined the project, as at the time she was too busy. In an unusual move the Cahns said they would not start the business without her. They ended up waiting two years for her to be free. In 1962, Cashin became the designer for their new label of leather accessories, Coach.

Cashin revolutionized the handbag industry. Her designs were more like modern sculpture and were dyed to match her favourite candy colours of pink, orange, yellow and green, and lined with exquisite Belgian linens, Mexican cottons, or tweeds from designer Dorothy Liebes. After many years of black and brown, clients were enthralled by the new variety of shapes, colours and textures available, all with convenient wide openings or exterior coin purses and pockets.

Cashin pioneered the use of hardware on her clothes and accessories, in particular the brass toggle that was to become the Coach hallmark.
Rambler Legacy Satchel $298

Coach has unusually long production runs for a luxury bag designer and is therefore able to take advantage of economies of scale which ensures higher profit margins. Coach also utilizes lower-cost production facilities in developing countries such as China and the Dominican Republic.

Coach is also successful due to the fact that it has a reputation for 'affordable luxury,' i.e. it is recognized as a luxury product yet is priced to be accessible to those for whom price is a consideration.
Overseas sales are strong, especially in Japan. Its main competition in Asia is Louis Vuitton, which remains the top seller of women's luxury handbags –see Louis Vuitton Bags and Gucci Designer Handbags.

In 1985 Coach was acquired by the Sara Lee Corporation. In October 2000, Coach became a public traded company listed on the NYSE. Since this purchase the company has expanded to include "fashion" items
coach handbags designer bags american designer

Where to Find Gucci Quality Designer Bags

2007-07-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Gucci - Luxury, Quality and Tradition

Aviatrix Medium Boston Bag - Retail Price $1990

Guccio Gucci (1881 – 1953) the son of an Italian merchant, started the House of Gucci in Florence in 1906 as a small, family-owned saddlery shop. Guccio was an exceptional craftsman and as a young man he quickly established a reputation for quality. In 1938, he opened a store in Rome. Guccio designed many of the company's most notable products himself, in 1947 Gucci introduced the iconic bamboo handle handbag, which is still one of the company’s most popular products.

After Guccio Gucci's death in 1953, his son Aldo Gucci helped to ensure that the company became a leading international brand. The first Gucci boutiques abroad were opened in London, Paris and New York. Gucci expanded into the Far East in the late 1960s, opening stores in Hong Kong, Tokyo and Korea. Gucci benefited from its association with stars such a Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly in the 1960s and it is also around this time that the company developed its famous GG logo, the Flora silk scarf and the Jackie O shoulder bag, made famous by Jackie Onassis.

Peggy Top Handle Bag - Retail Price $1655

In the late 1970s a series of disastrous business decisions and family quarrels almost bankrupted the company. In the 1980s Maurizio Gucci was left in complete control of the company, it was the first time in years that only one person had been in charge.

Indy Large Top Handle Bag - $3890

In the 1990’s, Tom Ford restored Gucci's reputation for chic, making it once again one of the most prestigious and easily recognizable fashion brands in the world. Current Gucci CEO Mark Lee, in an interview with Women's Wear Daily in 2006 said that the company “had the best year in the history of the company, so we are quite proud and happy about that”.

Britt Medium Boston Bag $1150

In 2006 Gucci generated over US$7 billion in revenue and was ranked 46th in the Business Week annual "Top 100 Brands". Gucci is the second biggest selling fashion brand after LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy). Gucci is, however, the biggest selling Italian brand in the world. The House of Gucci belongs to a French conglomerate Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR). It operates 425 stores worldwide and distributes its products wholesale through franchisees and upscale department stores.

Gucci Group is now one of the world’s leading multi-brand luxury goods companies, with a wide range of products and an extensive geographical presence.

Royal Large Tote Retail Price $1990

Its brands include Gucci, Bottega, Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Sergio Rossi. The group sells high-quality luxury goods, including handbags, luggage, shoes, timepieces, jewellery, perfumes and cosmetics, belt clasps (the one with the Guccio Gucci initials, was introduced in 1964), and eyeglasses.

The group currently has 454 stores worldwide and also wholesales products through franchisees, duty-free stores and leading departments stores.

Gucci manufactures all its products in Italy and has 219 directly operated stores.

Blason Evening Bag - Retail Price $1190

There are two main websites guccigroup.com and gucci.com and they are both considerably better than Louis Vuitton’s website, even though they still tend to be rather slow due to the excessive graphics! At gucci.com you can shop online for a wide range of products. They even have a form where you can ‘consult a personal shopper’ although I didn’t try it to see how fast the consultation was.
You can also rotate the bags displayed through 360° so you can see them from all angles! But not inside unfortunately.

The only thing lacking is a search bar. For info. on how to spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag see here How to Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton
gucci guccio designer handbags bags balenciaga bottega
mccartney
Home : Designer Handbags
Other designer handbag brands : Radley Handbags

NET-A-PORTER THE WORLD'S PREMIER LUXURY E-TAILER

2007-07-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

DESIGNER HANDBAGS - NET-A-PORTER LUXURY E-TAILER

If you are looking for womens handbags designer handbags, designer purses, luxury bags, shoes, accessories or clothing then you may be tempted to visit the NET-A-PORTER website. Net-a-Porter describes itself as "the world’s premier luxury fashion e-tailer" and certainly first impressions of the site are excellent.

Their site is easy to use, fast, interesting and effective, by which I mean you can find what you are looking for with a minimum of effort ! A blessing in this day and age where some web designers seem to believe that making things more complicated actually makes people stay at their website, it doesn't ! On the contrary it drives them away.

The Net-a-porter website is refreshingly simple to use. Just click on 'Bags' type Chloe Edith or Louis Vuitton in the search box and in less than a second you have a range of Edith bags to choose from, some of them at a discount of 30% ! What more could you want ? For more detailed information just click on the pictures.

In their own words NET-A-PORTER, is "presented in the style of a fashion magazine, and offers you unprecedented access to the world’s cutting edge fashion designers."

The site was launched in June 2000 to sell authentic current season clothing, shoes, and accessories, selected by their editors for fashion consumers worldwide.

They offer the latest collections from Miu Miu, Chloé, Jimmy Choo, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Mulberry, Alexander McQueen and Marc Jacobs. All of which are available for purchase on the site.

NET-A-PORTER prides itself on offering you a "superior level of service and customer care. .....and is the "first and only luxury fashion website to target a global market. "

Deliveries are made with taxes and duties pre-paid, so no matter where you live in the world, NET-A-PORTER can claim to be your local fashion shop, as well as the world’s most successful luxury global boutique and e-commerce destination.

In addition to being an online store, NET-A-PORTER also has a magazine and what's new section, as well as an interesting 'Explore' section where if you are not sure what you are looking for you can easily discover new things by browsing everything that's on offer.
Net-a-Porter chloe fendi miu miu jimmy choo

Home : Mary Frances Handbags

Franck Muller - Master of Complications - Extreme Quality Watches

2007-06-26T13:50:00.000-07:00

Mens Watches - Franck Muller Master of Complications

Franck Muller Timepieces and Watches.

In his excellent book Richistan Robert Frank describes how the super-rich, who reside in a sort of parallel universe, don't buy Mercedes or Rolex, they are more selective and go for Maybachs and Franck Muller Watches.

Maybach Zeppelin DS 8 - as driven by the Invisible Man

A Brief History of Timepieces

Franck Muller was born in La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland in July 1958 to a Swiss father and an Italian mother, he is renowned for creating complicated, unique and revolutionary timepieces., some of which are very expensive ($600,000 if Robert Frank is to be believed). He revels in the title of "Master of Complications".

His obsessively complicated watches, which are greatly appreciated by watch connoisseurs and even other manufacturers are the preferred timepiece of a number of celebrities, including Demi Moore, Robin Williams and Elton John.

Franck Muller watches are famous for their fusion of understated style and traditional Swiss watch manufacturing excellence. The president of the company designs the mechanism of every watch personally.

Long Island Crazy Hours (list price $20,600)
Early in his career Franck Muller restored mechanical timepieces for collectors, museums and auction houses and quickly gained a reputation as a master restorer of antique timepieces. With his growing expertise he began to create his own designs.

By 1992, he had amassed four patents and twenty-one world premieres. He is renowned for his unique combinations of highly sophisticated features and the outstanding accuracy of his functions. Today he continues to challenge and expand the definitions of what a watch can be, creating ever more revolutionary and unique timepieces.

The House of Franck Muller was established in 1992 and his extremely complicated timepieces achieved an instant reputation throughout Europe and the United States. Today Franck Muller produces a limited number of watches for private clients, his collections include timepieces of various designs and different price ranges.

Aware that the design of a watch is the first thing to catch the eye he created a well-known Curvex Tonneau case, which is instantly recognizable on any wrist. Current collections include: Chronograph, Color Dreams, Tourbillon and Conquistador.

Conquistador 8002 CC (list price $17,800)

Franck Muller is also known for "World Premiers". Each year he launches at least one new line of timepieces containing something exclusive, an innovation in the watchmaking industry.

Notable timepieces include Revolution2, Revolution3, the Endurance, and the Curvex Minute Repeater Tourbillon, whose production is limited to 25 pieces.

Prices range from several thousand dollars to $600,000, which means that if you own one of these and you look at the time 40 times a day (why wouldn't you?) (inc. bank holidays and weekends) and you own the watch for 40 years, each time you look at the time it costs you $1 !

1999 Vegas 5850 (list price $23,000)

Happy hunting.

franck muller
richistan
frank
watches
timepieces
maybach
complications
Home : Designer Handbags

A RARE PICTURE OF THE FIRST GENUINE LOUIS VUITTON

2007-06-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Picture of the First Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton Biography

I suspect that few people know what the first genuine Louis Vuitton looked like so here he is. Rather striking !

He was born in Anchay in France on August 4th 1821 and died in Paris on February 27th 1892.

He left his home town and his parents, who were millers, at the age of 14, to go to Paris where he worked for a trunk maker and also as an apprentice luggage packer, to the prominent households of Paris. Louis Vuitton's reputation grew such that he was appointed by the Emperor of France, Napoleon III, as official luggage packer to his wife, the Empress Eugenie.

.................................. Monogram Canvas Neverfull ($665.00)
Vuitton thus acquired expert knowledge of the requirements of a good travelling case and started to design his own luggage. He opened his workshops in 1854 in order to provide luggage suitable for the new age in which travel was becoming more commonplace.

He created his own brand in 1854 in order to make innovative and high quality lugggage. He had three watchwords - luxury, functionality, innovation. The first shop was opened that same year in Paris. The business developed rapidly and soon acquired an international reputation and in 1885 a shop was opened in London's Oxford Street. Over years the Louis Vuitton line gained international recognition, due in part to the bronze medal it obtained at the 1867 World's Fair and the gold medal at the 1889 World's Fair in Paris. The first stores opened in the U.S. in 1897.

Louis Vuitton's designs have always been highly fashionable and the famous LV monogram was created in 1896 in response to the widespread copying of its products! (For information on fake Louis Vuitton bags click here : How To Spot a Fake Louis Vuitton Bag )After Louis Vuitton's death in 1892 his son Georges took control of the business and made the Louis Vuitton brand into what it is today. The company developed what is recognized as the first "designer label" for its products.

Epi Leather Eugenie ($680.00)

Georges Vuitton is also said to have developed Vuitton's unique 5-combination lock. He died in 1936 and his son Gaston-Louis, took control of the company. In 1987 the company merged with Moet-Hennessy to become LVMH. Megastores were opened in 1998 in Paris, London and New York, a second flagship store was opened in Hong Kong in 2000.

In the 21st century there are around 200 Louis Vuitton stores in all the major cities of Europe, the U.S., and the Far East selling prestigious leather handbags, purses and luggage and elegant accessories to its distinguished clientéle. Due to the problems of counterfeiting Louis Vuitton now only sells its handbags and other products through its own stores or via its official website.

Monogram Dentelle Speedy 30 ($1420.00)
designer handbags
Louis Vuitton
handbags

Home : Designer Handbags

HOW TO SPOT A FAKE LOUIS VUITTON BAG

2007-06-20T12:17:00.001-07:00

Womens Handbags - HOW TO SPOT A FAKE LOUIS VUITTON BAG

A genuine Monogram MiniLin Pochette (current retail price $165.00)

Given that Louis Vuitton designer handbags can cost several hundred or several thousand dollars it would be nice to know how to avoid buying a fake or replica designer bag. But, as I said in my previous post, it is estimated that 99% of Louis Vuitton goods bought are fakes! Quite an estimate.

So how do you know if a Louis Vuitton is genuine and how can you spot a fake LV bag ? Well, to be quite brutally honest, you can't! If you read other websites or blogs they will tell you there are certain telltale signs to look for and this is undoubtedly true, but you, as a non-expert, will find it very difficult to distinguish between the genuine designer handbag and a very good imitation.

When looking for genuine Louis Vuitton leather handbags there are some indications that you might like to bear in mind however : -

The seller has a lot of stock - purchases are in fact limited by Louis Vuitton to avoid re-selling, so avoid anyone with large stocks of designer bags
Study the Louis Vuitton website and get to know the genuine bags - apparently some so-called Vuitton bags such as the Cherry Blossom Speedy or a Murakami Visor were never made by Vuitton

Suhali L'Epanoui PM (current retail price $2,650.00)

Louis Vuitton do not wrap their bags in plastic or bubble wrap!
If the price seems too good to be true then it is - genuine Vuitton bags are expensive
Poor quality craftsmanship - Vuitton bags are "works of art" and should look like them - no wrinkles, creases, asymmetrical logos, poor quality seams etc...
Attention to detail in all areas
Certificate of Authenticity - these can of course be fakes too - but if there isn't one then at least that's a definite sign to steer clear
Cheap looking tags made from a circular piece of plastic
Most genuine dust bags just have the LV or Louis Vuitton logo
Cheap plastic, cheap tan or cheap suede interiors
The patterns on Vuitton designer handbags are always lined up correctly (not like some people's wallpaper)

These are some of the signs, but even so you would be hard pushed to differentiate between the genuine womens handbags and the good fakes without a lot of practice (which rather defeats the purpose - unless you intend joining the bag police).

Monogram Satin Aumoniere (current retail price $1,630.00)

So what's a girl (or guy) to do? As I said above, unless you are an expert, in my opinion the only way you can be absolutely sure of getting a genuine Louis Vuitton designer handbag is to buy it from a Louis Vuitton store or from their authorized websites. If you are willing to take the risk of being one of the 99% then, if you do your homework (by studying the upmarket magazines and above all the awful Louis Vuitton website - awful because it is so slow and clunky and difficult to navigate), you might be able to find yourself a bargain, but as they always say 'buyer beware' you are unlikely to get a refund if you discover your bag is a fake. Bear in mind too that not all fakes are cheap. What better way to convince you that a bag is genuine than by charging almost the full price? One woman stated that she paid $600 for a bag in the belief that it was genuine designer handbag, whereas in fact it was a fake that she could have got elsewhere for $50 .

On the Louis Vuitton website they state that Louis Vuitton products are only available at Louis Vuitton stores - or from their offical websites.

Monogram MiniLin Pochette Cancun (current retail price $315.00)

Louis Vuitton leather goods are made in France, Spain or the United States., where experienced craftsmen pay extreme attention to detail using only the finest materials.

Suhali LeFabuleux (current retail price $3,700.00)

For futher information see Fake Louis Vuitton Designer Handbags
For a video of how to spot fake Louis Vuitton bags see - Fake Louis Vuitton Bags
Home : Designer Handbags
Other designer handbag brands : Radley Handbags - B. Makowsky

Louis Vuitton Bags - Part I

2007-06-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Womens Handbags - Louis Vuitton Designer Bags

Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy LVMH.PA more often called Louis Vuitton, is a French company headquartered in Paris which creates luxury fashion and leather goods, notably designer handbags. Astonishingly just over 1% of the goods bearing the famous trademark monogram are authentic, i.e. 99% are fakes! The ones below are all genuine.

Sellier Dragonne (current retail price $1260.00)

Lambskin Rivets Bag (current retail price $3,300.00)

The company is named after its founder Louis Vuitton (1821 – 1892) who was a ‘malletier; who designed and manufactured luggage. He was born in the Jura, France but moved to Paris, on foot, in 1835. In 1854 he founded the company, which is now owned by LVMH.

Louis Vuitton signature leather goods are now considered a status symbol around the world.

The iconic Monogram Canvas design was the first designer label in contemporary history and was created in 1896 by Vuitton's son Georges for the express purpose of preventing counterfeiting. Louis Vuitton is however the most counterfeited brand in fashion history!

The Louis Vuitton company has made expert use of celebrities in its marketing campaigns, most recently Uma Thurman and Scarlett Johansson but also Jennifer Lopez, Chloe Sevigny, Christina Ricci, Gisele Bundchen, Kate Moss, and Naomi Campbell. Hayden Christensen has also appeared as model for the company's luggage and prêt-à-porter lines.

Neverfull GM (current retail price $665.00)

Vuitton bags and purses are often carried by a whole host of other celebrities such as Madonna, Beyonce Knowles, Lindsay Lohan, Kimora Lee Simmons, Ayumi Hamasaki, Jessica Simpson, Ashley Tisdale, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Angelina Jolie, Anna Kournikova, Pamela Anderson, Katharine McPhee, Carmen Electra, Mariah Carey, and Victoria Beckham.

Vuitton has created a cult-like following among consumers and owners often refer to their bags and accessories as my “Louis.”

In an attempt to prevent counterfeiting, the company has changed its policy regarding the distribution of its products. Vuitton products used to be widely sold in department stores, such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. But since the 1980s, they are available at specialized Louis Vuitton boutiques, with only a small number of exceptions. These boutiques are usually located in upmarket shopping districts.

Louis Vuitton's biggest stores are in New York, Beverly Hills, Waikiki, Guam, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Boston, San Francisco, Chicago, London, Kuala Lumpur, their flagship store is in Paris.

Louis Vuitton’s leather goods and women's handbags are of the highest quality, but its website is actually the worst website I have ever seen! It is a nightmare to navigate around and extremely irritating! Fortunately they don’t sell websites, they sell luxury handbags and other designer accessories.

Honfleur (current retail price $575.00)

For information on Gucci handbags see :
Gucci Bags

Home : Designer Handbags
Other brands : Radley Handbags