Designers Handbags

You probably haven’t heard of Kathleen Dustin. I hadn’t even heard of her until a few days ago, when a friend of mine who knows that I’m always looking for interesting takes on fashion passed along her website to me.

Kathleen studied mathematics at University but realized she had missed her true calling as an artist and went back to school to get her MFA. However, believing that sculptures “just sit in the corner and gather dust”, she wanted to make art that was more interactive, so she chose purses and jewelry.

Her designs are whimsical, and strikingly beautiful (even if you wouldn’t necessarily find it wearable, per se), and I find myself drawn to the Nigella pod purse. Paired with a tailored, monochrome look and some seriously glam heels, the Nigella bag would be amazing and beyond unique (each bag is handcrafted in numbers more limited than Birkin bags).

If the organic-inspired bags aren’t for you, check out the “Contemplating Yesterday” tote– the silhouette and structure are eye-catching and the rich colours are perfect for evening events.

I’d love to see a risk-taking yet superbly elegant celeb like Nicole Kidman carry a bag like this for an evening out!

What a cute little enhanced by plastic surgery nose behind the hat!

Ashlee Simpson continues to sport her new look, which completely resembles her big sis Jessica, but I must admit her choice in handbags is impeccable. Ashlee Simpson’s style has transformed over the years and her handbag style has completely matured into classy designer bags. Take the hot and new to the scene line by Badgley Mischka. Ashlee has taken a keen liking to the Lolita, which is also being carried by her sister. The Badgley Mischka Lolita Handbag intricately intertwines buttery soft leather along with soft and shiny python. While Ashlee sports the brown version, there is also a creamy and sultry ivory version which has an inner zip pocket and tassle detailing. Fitting in perfectly with the big bag trend, the bag measures 16 1/2″ w X 12″ L X 6″ deep. I have both good news and bad news. The bad news is this bag is out of stock at the moment, but the good news is that Badgley Mischka handbags are being carried at Lux Couture. Lux Couture is an amazing e-boutique which boasts impeccable customer service and carries an amazing array of bags. Check out the bag via Lux Couture to see if it is back in stock ($1045).

Out with the old, in with the new. Vlad and I want to welcome 2007 to the Purse Blog and to all of you! We spent a low key evening together (after his 17 hour drive from Ohio to Ft Lauderdale, what a guy ). With the start of double-0-7, there is an up and coming designer on the horizon. Young, ambitious, and the son of Bottega Veneta’s owners before Gucci Group took over, Gabriellecorto Moltedo. This 26-year-old is breaking into the scene with his launch of luxury accessories named so perfectly, Corto Moltedo. Net-A-Porter carries a variety of handbags by this new designer which showcase his range; combining Italian luxury and funky detailing. At 26, this young man has already designed hit bags and we are sure to see and hear more of him in 2007. Below you can see his range from a lush leather shoulder bag, to a shiny gold and star charmed clutch, to a practical fold over shoulder bag.

Corto Moltedo Priscilla Leather Shoulder Bag, $1264.

Corto Moltedo Susan Mirrored Clutch, $704.

Corto Moltedo Priscilla Luxor Handbag, $1234.

The first time I saw the Liberty of London Frame Carriage Shoppers was when I flipped through POP magazine. I saw this ad and mesmerized by the look and design of the bags, the quality of the bags captured well there. But my knowledge about this bag or brand was very limited, so a great fellow PFer who lives in UK helps me find out about this great bag.

The design represents everything I’m looking for in a bag, vintage frame purse style, great materials (leather and velvet), and it’s BIG! These bags are available in various color and styles including:

plain leather in black or in brown

embossed leather in black (as seen on the ad)

embossed velvet in taupe (gold) and in black (as seen on the ad)

The Liberty of London Frame Carriage Shoppers’ size is 65 x 30 cm and they are available for 695 at Liberty of London flagship store in UK or by mail order at for international inquiries.

Written by guest blogger: seahorseinstripes.

On Thanksgiving Day we should all give thanks for what we have, including fresh air and a healthy environment and of course, the FEAST on our tables today . For our Eco-friendly readers, there is a special treat for you today. My mom, sister, and I are the biggest Luna Bar fans out there. These bars are wheat and dairy free (both ingredients I am allergic to) and taste amazing. Thanks to Ecoist many bags are being brought to us that are environmentally friendly, like the Ecoist Eco-Friendly Luna Bar Wrapper Bags. Ecoist explains that the ‘wrappers that are used are post-industrial waste, typically due to misprints or discontinuation of a line. They are made in Mexico and Peru by workers that are paid fair wages. Once the discarded wrappers arrive from the factories, they are cut, folded into straps, weaved, and sewn by skilled artisans. Each product is 100% handmade. Plus, for each bag that is purchased, Ecoist plants a tree through Trees for the Future.’ These bags are out of the ordinary but extraordinary in their eco-friendly design and fun wrapper appeal (especially Luna Bar due to my addiction!).

Top right we have the Luna Bar Jumbo Coin Pouch which is a mere $18 via Ecoist and is made with an array of Luna Bar wrappers sporting all the different flavors. The Coin Pouch is a perfect size for your ID, lip gloss, and cash while you are in a hurry. Next we have the Luna Bar Small Shoulder Bag which is made with blue Luna Bar wrappers and measures 9 x 4.5 inches. The shoulder bag is available through Ecoist for $58. And last, the Luna Bar Double Coiner works like a clutch and can be bought for $32 via Ecoist.

If Luna Bars are not your favorite, make sure you check out all of the other candy wrapper Ecoist handbags. Also, there is free shipping for the holidays on orders over $100. Make sure you enter freeship for the offer code during checkout at Ecoist.com.