Authentic Designer Handbag Reviews - Bagdonna

Alexander McQueen's Passing A Hugest Loss To the Fashion World

2010-02-12T11:54:00.002+08:00

It's been a while since I last did a post on my blog. I was shocked and saddened when news of Alexander McQueen's death broke out this morning. I immediately feel compelled to do this little tribute to him. Undeniably a fashion genius, it's such a pity that his life ended so prematurely. "He leaves the fashion world with an unfillable void", Dolce & Gabbana said. His death got me thinking--why do people with extraordinary fame and talent often die young? Now one can only hope that his legacy will be continued forever.

Image: Internet

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Shiny Goatskin Card Case

2010-01-07T18:45:00.008+08:00

When I saw this Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Card Case on sale, I knew I had to get it. The gorgeous shade of brown together with the shiny goatskin is a refreshing change from all the usual matte leather stuffs I have from BV. If you look closely, there are actually two leathers of different textures interwovened together to create a mildly contrasting pattern. I've been wanting to get a Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Card Case to hold my Sony digicam for the longest time. And guess what. It fits perfectly. Now I have one more reason to carry my Sony Digicam everywhere with me.

At just about $300 after the discount, the price is really not bad at all.

Image: Bagdonna

Top 5 Most Popular Designer Handbag

2009-12-28T17:44:00.014+08:00

Here are the top 5 designer bags which score highest on the mass-appeal index:

Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvass Neverfull

An extremely wearable and flexible bag. Its large opening and roomy interior make it an ideal bag for work, travel and everyday use.

Available in PM, MM ang GM, it is now also available in Damier Canvass. Louis Vuitton has since launched a few limited editions of this hugely popular bag such as the Murakami and Graffiti versions.

Louis Vuitton Speedy

An interpretation of Louis Vuitton's famous Keepall, the Speedy wins for its simple, classic style with a roomy interior. Its appeal transcends all demographics. Need I say more?

Gucci Original GG Tote

Available in an array of shapes and sizes, it is an instant hit with the OL (Office Lady).

Pictured here is the Sukey Large Tote bag, one of the most popular Gucci Original GG totes. A well-designed bag, it has both form and function, making it a great everyday bag. The cream leather combines beautifully with the signature fabric.

Long Champ Le Pliage

The ultimate everyday versatile bag, it has garnered a strong following with its signature embossed leather, water-resistant nylon and roomy interior. This super light tote can be folded into a compact shape for storage. Available in a variety of styles, sizes and colors.

Coach Signature Tote

Coach Signature handbags have become so universally appealing that its outlet stores have launched a line of its Signature tote that is very affordable to the common consumer.

Images: Internet

Chloe Paddington

2009-12-22T14:50:00.004+08:00

Of all the Chloe Paddingtons, the Paddington Pocket is my favorite. Besides the signature buttery-soft albeit the thick, heavy leather, I also like the good size. It is just right; not too big or small and it is proportionate to the gigantic lock. And as the name suggests, it comes with a pocket on the outside which is always a bonus for me. You can reach for essentials like keys, lip gloss, mints without rummaging furiously through your bag.

The Chloe Paddington Pocket remains one of my much loved bag despite feeling victimized each time I carry it due to its sheer weight. To minimize the weight, I've removed the signature lock from the bag. It's a pity as it adds a nice touch to the bag but well...unless I have 'vertebraes made of steel' as Bagsnob Tina puts it.

The Chloe Paddington Pocket retails for $2610.

Image: Bagdonna

Miu Miu Taupe Qulited Shoulder Bag

2009-12-15T18:22:00.006+08:00

I've added this gorgeous Miu Miu Taupe Quilted Shoulder Bag to my wish list. I've always had a soft spot for bags with chains combined with leather to give the user comfort while carrying the bag. Aesthetically, it also gives the bag a more balanced feel as opposed to one with a full chain like the Chanel 2.55.

I like everything about this bag--the perfect leather handles with chain links, turnlock closure and studs all in gorgeous gold-tone; the buttery-soft leather in the most neutral tone; its generous size with three compartments and I like how the the buckles at the sides appear to be holding the three compartments together; finally the price. At $2580, it is considered affordable or inexpensive.

Image: Internet

Fendi Peek-A-Boo Bag

2009-12-10T20:36:00.008+08:00

If you have been a fan of Fendi Peekaboo bag but became unsure of the bag when the designer created a furore among bag aficionados by using the fur of an animal that smells like rotten egg and garbage, all is not lost. Introducing the Fendi Skunk Fur Peekaboo bag. This bag smells and who in their right frame of mind would use skunk fur for handbag you ask. But really, the bag doesn't smell at all and the fur is soft and the white strip running down the centre creates a nice contrast to an otherwise monotone bag. The price? $6175.

And I save the best for last. You can now have your very own Peekaboo bag, Made-To-Order according to your whims and fancies-- From the color to the type of leather used for the interior to the exterior of the bag, right down to the hardware used. And for all the creativity and originality, a medal will be presented to you in the form of a personal inscription on the silver plate inside the bag. After 4 months, your personalized Peekaboo bag will arrive here all the way from Rome and set you back at a cool $4800.

Image: Bagdonna

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Umbria Roma

2009-12-06T22:56:00.009+08:00

If you've been wanting to add another bag to your collection, this is the best time to do so. Queues were seen forming outside of boutiques such as Coach and Gucci over the weekends. It's that time of the year where luxury brands are having their bi-annual sale. I have been eyeing the Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Umbria Roma for some time. It was a pleasant surprise when I saw the camel color reduced by 30%. It is a good size bag with 3 compartments, all luxuriously lined with suede. I like the lock and key closure and the adjustable handles. But at $3780 after the discount, it's still considered expensive. Adding to the fact that it is not in my choice color, I walked out of the boutique without the bag.

Image: Internet

Dior Le 30 Bag

2009-12-02T22:44:00.007+08:00

The Dior Le 30 bag got its name from 30 Avenue Montaigne, address of Dior's boutique in Paris since 1946. This roomy yet feminine bag comes in easy-to-match colors such as black, white, brown and red. If you're more adventurous, consider the purple or the pink. The patent and smooth lambskin versions feature Dior's signature Cannage pattern--either stitched or piped. It is also available in textured python. The dangling charm adds a nice touch to the bag which can be detached and converted to a keyring. Besides the foldover ruffle, the other talking point of the Le 30 has to be its interesting handle--double chain of differing links topped off with a leather in the middle for carrying comfort.

The Large Dior Le 30 bag pictured here features the piped Cannage pattern on super soft smooth lambskin in Beige with gold hardware. Also available in silver hardware and a smaller size.

In all Dior boutiques $4800.

Image: Internet

Givenchy Nightingale

2009-11-29T21:53:00.005+08:00

I've been in love with the Givenchy Nightingale for some time but just haven't gotten myself one as yet. It is a good everyday bag to lug your 'life' around town. A bag you'd want to carry on days when you just feel like dressing down and still look effortlessly stylish at the same time. Tomorrow as I stand in front of my closet, I can see my hands reaching for my favorite white t-shirt and faded jeans and it's moment like this that I regret not getting a black Givenchy Nightingale sooner.

Available at DFS Galleria Scottswalk or On Peddar $3490.

Image: Bagdonna

News Flash- Louis Vuitton

2009-11-26T17:58:00.003+08:00

If you're a fan of Louis Vuitton, you should know by now their flagship store at ION Orchard is the first and largest global store in Southeast Asia. It is second in the world- after its Paris flagship store located along Avenue des Champs Elysees, one 0f the most famous streets in the world- to carry a full range of products which includes shoes, watches and its mass-appeal leather goods. Prices are also reportedly the cheapest in Southeast Asia.

Come next year, Louis Vuitton will once again make its presence felt by having a standalone boutique that will appear to be floating on the water off the Marina Bay Integrated Resort. The flagship store will be housed in a 'glass-and-steel Crystal Pavilion', boasting a one-of-a kind architecture.

Singapore is projecting itself as the centre for luxury shopping and with it comes a buzz about the whole retail scene here that will satisfy even the most hardcore of shopaholic. I feel lucky to be residing here.

Image: Bagdonna

Prada Resort Collection- Saffiano Fori Boston Bag

2009-11-23T20:57:00.007+08:00

Judging by the comments I've heard so far about the Prada Fori line from the Resort Collection, it is going to be a flop. Personally, the colors and all their combinations-- bright orange with pink, pink with yellow, etc -- take some getting used-to. Though they have the traffic-stopping effect, it is so 'unPrada'.

I like the shape of this bag and the perforated calf leather, but the color combination is so wrong. We've been taught never to mix warm color with cool color, right? The white will go a lot better with colors such as black, grey or navy. And I think I am right when I saw a bigger version of this bag in Bagaholicboy and like it instantly. I am going to check it out when I visit Prada the next time. Looks like a good size for an overnighter.

The Prada Saffiano Fori Boston bag retails for $2360.

Image: Bagdonna

Prada 2009 Holiday Keychain Collection

2009-11-23T17:20:00.008+08:00

I was delighted to see the Prada 2009 Holiday Keychain Collection while shopping at ION Orchard yesterday. But disappointed at the same time as I was hoping to bring home a pink teddy bear this year which I had missed out last year. As you can see, no pink one this year. On hindsight, I think these teddies are more lavishly dressed up than the 2008 offerings. Thanks to the generous use of hardware and some adorned with sparkling swarovski crystals at the same time. This should more than make up for my initial disappointment. Anyway, I don't have a brown teddy bear yet and the color is so neutral it will match easily.

These are just sample pieces not for sale yet.

In stores soon $330 each.

Image: Bagdonna

Hermes- Fringed JPG Shoulder Kelly Bag

2009-11-20T21:08:00.013+08:00

I've not started on a post proper on Hermes bag, Birkin especially, as I wanted to do more research to share more information with my readers. But I was so inspired to write about things Hermes after watching Lady First on Wednesday night - a female shopping & lifestyle program in Taiwan aired on Starhub cable channel 54, hosted by TV mogul Pauline Lan Hsin-Mei(LHM). If, like me, you've been following the program, you'd know by now that she is a big spender at Hermes and have the title VVIP bestowed upon her. Thus the priviledge of seeing the rarest just by being her viewer. That's why I always stay glued to the TV whenever the program features designer handbags. Most of the time, she likes to share with her guests and viewers on her latest acquisitions. Her bags always draw a lot of oohs and aahs from them and I am no exception. I have never been a fan of Kelly bag until I saw LHM's Fringed JPG Shoulder Kelly bag. It is a lot more youthful than the standard Kelly. According to her, it is priced about the same as a basic Birkin. But even if you have the money, you may not be able to get your hands on one as it's reserved for Hermes' VIP customers only.

For her birthday, Hermes got her this (I am holding my breath as I write this) crocodile wallet with perfectly cut diamonds set on the logo which costs a whopping S$30 000+ with her name 'Pauline Lan' stamped on the inside. Actually, I don't really understand when she said Hermes 'gave me this wallet for my birthday'. Is it 'gave me' as in she didn't pay for a single cent or 'gave me' the priviledge to buy a wallet customized to her specifications? If it is the former, then do a mental sum the amount of money she has dropped at Hermes to date.

For last year's X'mas, she treated herself to this holy grail which costs 10x the amount of the aforementioned wallet! Again, unattainable even if you have the cash, unless you're Hermes' VVIP.

Okay okay. Seems like this post is dedicated more to Lan Hsin-Mei than to Hermes bags. I hope she stumbles upon my blog one day and read this post. Not exactly my idol but must say I admire her a lot. Despite her fame and fortune, she comes across as someone very easy-going and humorous. If I ever meet her in person, I will definitely not feel intimidated by her. But by her Diamond studded Fuschia Crocodile Birkin!

Images: Internet

Louis Vuitton Judy PM

2009-11-19T16:16:00.005+08:00

I have always liked the Louis Vuitton Judy PM bag but don't see myself getting one any sooner. It's a small bag and thus an evening bag. I hardly attend evening functions and it will probably just sit in my bag closet if I get it now. I have other more practical bags in my wish list that I'd rather get first. Having said that, the Louis Vuitton Judy PM bag is babelicious- I am refering to the white one. It is a cute bag with the the pleated monogram multicolore canvas lending a youthful touch. I like the generous use of cowhide leather and how it contrasts nicely with the canvas. The hardware used should be commended too. I like the the pretty chain with the shoulder rest for carrying comfort; the oh-so elegant brass handle with four little studs on its corners with 'LOUIS VUITTON' and 'PARIS' discreetly embossed on it; bottom studs to protect the bag.

A small-sized bag packed with great detailing.

Also available in M($2880) and L($3300).

At all Louis Vuitton boutiques $2120.

Image: Internet

Chloe Sally

2009-11-16T20:44:00.007+08:00

The Chloe Sally bag, I want! It is almost love at first sight. Aesthetically, I can't find any fault with it. My only complain is its weight. But I guess that's signature of Chloe bags as they use thick leather and heavy hardware. Think Chloe Paddington. The Chloe Sally is a structured bag accented by metal frame and textured leather, set off by ultra feminine chains. It is a simple bag with clean lines. I really like that the chains come with the shoulder rest, a case of form meets function. Imagine the sensation of the chains cutting through your shoulder without it. Besides, it lends a nice touch to the chains. As the Chloe Sally has been compared with Chanel 2.55, her chains definitely win her over her Chanel counterpart. Its double flap with separate compartment is another plus.

Available in both calfskin and python leather, it comes in an array of colors. My favorite is the one featured here. The red and beige are equally gorgeous. It is a generous size bag which can take you from day to night effortlessly. And the length of the bag, ending just above the waist, is perfect.

At Chloe boutiques $3350.

Image: Internet

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Nappa Cosmetic Case

2009-11-12T12:18:00.018+08:00

I think all bag-obsessed share a common trait. Our obsession extends to wallets, purses, pouches, bag charms and even key rings. For me, I never seem to get enough of them. I have wallets of different style such as long, zip-around, snap-closure type, etc. Then there are purses and pouches that are hardly used but acquired for the purpose of collecting them. In fact, I have a containerful of them (not branded ones, unfortunately) which I collected in my early years. Sometimes I suspect I am more obsessed with purses and pouches than with bags.

The Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Nappa Cosmetic Case is in my bag constantly. It is huge for what it is. So I don't use it as a cosmetic case. I use it to store hard-to-find items in a bag. In fact, it can double up as a clutch bag. It is also available in a smaller size.

I am loving everything about it. The shape, the size and the buttery-soft leather.

Priced at $540 for S and $670 for L.

Get it at all Bottega Veneta boutiques.

Image: Bagdonna

Mulberry Mitzy Hobo

2009-11-09T20:38:00.013+08:00

When I first saw the Mulberry Mitzy Hobo, I smiled to myself as Mulberry has done it again. A slouchy shape accented by a short chunky handle with buckle detailing, giving the bag an overall well-balanced feel. Indeed, it is a good- looking bag.

But when I visited their boutique in Takashimaya yesterday, I was a bit disappointed. When I held the bag, it lacks the weight expected of a leather bag. Even the apparent chunky handle does not feel sturdy. Perhaps the handle could have used a thicker leather. Then it would be a different story altogether. I was again disappointed when I saw the cotton used to line the bag. Honestly, I think it cheapens the bag. But at only $1299 for a bag with a luxury nametag made of 100% leather crafted in England that looks gorgeous as well, one can't complain too much.

Image: Internet

Loewe Calle Bag

2009-11-07T22:31:00.019+08:00

I am so in love with the Loewe Calle bag, especially this one in the arm of korean actress Choi Ji-woo. She looks so effortlessly stylish. I think she really brings out the beauty of the bag as intended by Stuart Vevers, the brainchild behind this it-bag. Slouchy and oversized, this to-die-for bag is crafted in sumptuous ostrich leather with a distinctive giant padlock, a Loewe signature. Available in nappa leather as well, it comes in bright colors such as fushia, orange, red and yellow.

But my excitement was somehow dented when I saw the same bag carried by Victoria Beckham. My immediate reaction- is she just done with grocery shopping? Yes, this bag was inspired by plastic bags you see at the supermarket checkout but that doesn't mean it should be carried like one. I think this bag should not be stuffed and carried like a top handle-bag, but as a hobo slung casually on the shoulders like Choi Ji-woo did. Nevertheless, I am still in love with the Loewe Calle bag and it is definitely on my wish list.

Prices start from $2690 for a nappa version.

Images: Loewe, Internet

News Flash- Upcoming Malls along Orchard Road

2009-11-05T22:14:00.020+08:00

Gear up shopaholics. Two new malls along Orchard Road set to open its doors in the coming weeks.

First up, we have 313@Somerset. Due to open in the 3rd week of Nov, shoppers can expect top notch customer service from shops offering food, fashion and lifestyle treats. Tenants will be mid-range from the likes of Esprit, Mango and Lacoste just to name a few. Zara and Forever21 will have their flagship stores spread over 3 and 4 floors respectively. And the crux of it, Unqlo will open its 3rd outlet in Singapore on 3 Dec from 10am to 11pm. Covering a whopping 17,000sqf in floor space spread across a single level, it is the biggest in SEA. Shoppers can look forward to collections available exclusively in this store such as a limited edition line by famed cult designer Mr Kiminori Morishita; a Baby Collection- a first in SEA; and of course the much anticipated +J Collection by Jil Sander. With prices starting from $29.90 to $229.90, it's a steal. Start the queue at #03-27 to 34.

Next up, we have the Mandarin Gallery delivering "unprecedented street-level prominence" come December. After undergoing a $200m facelift, it will unveil a brand new facade in the form of floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Featuring 6 visually stunning duplexes, it houses high-end international labels such as Montblanc, Emporio Armani, Marc by Marc Jacobs, D&G, Bread & Butter, Vertu, Mauboussin with Y3, Just Cavalli and Terra Plana making their debut in Singapore. This mall will definitely appeal to the younger, affluent crowd.

Mandarin Gallery will be the last of new malls opening this year. In 2010, shoppers can look forward to the opening of Knightsbridge in May, another upscale shopping mall, and the upgraded Heeren Mall.

With a string of new malls boasting iconic architecture and luxury brands wafting into our shore in droves, the revitalized Orchard Road looks set to becoming the magnet for the mass affluent shoppers.

Image: Bagdonna

The Legendary Lady Dior

2009-11-04T15:01:00.013+08:00

The Lady Dior bag is, in my opinion, the most classically feminine bag. Made famous by the late Princess Diana, it was presented to her as a gift by former French First Lady when she paid her a visit in Paris. Apparently, it was love at first sight and she reportedly ordered the bag in every color and style. She was subsequently photographed carrying the bag on many significant occasions.

Launched in September 1995, Dior then gave this new model the graceful name Lady Dior, as the bag has become synonymous with the world's most photographed woman.

Available in lambskin, patent leather and exotic skins such as snake and crocodile, the Lady Dior bag features Dior's signature Cannage stitching- a geometric pattern inspired by the Napoleon III chairs once used by Christian Dior in the 1940s- and D.I.O.R charms; described as "a luxurious detail with a feminine and mischievous signature".

Honestly, the Lady Dior is not the most practical bag due to its small opening with metal zipper potentially scratching your watch or jewellery. But I really don't mind owning one just so I can admire it everyday.

If I can have my way, I would want a Lady Dior in Beige quilted patent with gold hardware; a red in quilted lambskin with gold hardware and a Large Lady Dior in black quilted lambskin with silver hardware for everyday use. And the ultimate holy grail of Lady Dior in luxurious crocodile skin with gold hardware in any pastel shade. I could go on forever with this iconic bag.

For now, I'd just have to contend with having the Lady Dior Compact which doubles up as a bag charm.

Prices start from $3330.

Image: Internet

Miu Miu Ad Campaign

2009-11-02T19:54:00.019+08:00

If you've been to Orchard Road lately, it will be hard not to notice billboards fronting the facade of malls undergoing rejuvenating works. One such big screen advertisement that caught my eye is Miu Miu. It has to be their most eye-catching advertisement to date. And they have the models to thank for, especially this one. Appearing against a plain background, the model says it all. She has this quiet, somber demeanor that exudes an aura of mystery. I never fail to take a second look at her everytime I walk past the billboard in Paragon. Just can't help feeling she'll be the next big thing. I googled it and yielded the following result- Ilda Lindquist from Sweden. In an attempt to find out more about her, I went into Miu Miu's website and voila! My attention suddenly turned to this bag, which is, well, divine.

Available in both nappa leather and lurex (a type of fabric), the Miu Miu Resort 2010 Stage bag comes with a jewelry strap. Great if it can be detached so it can be worn as a necklace and the handbag converted to a clutch bag.

Seems I can't skip a post talking about bags.

In stores soon.

Image: Miu Miu

Fabala Bag by BOSS Black

2009-10-31T14:20:00.008+08:00

The Fabala bag from the BOSS Black Women's Collection 2009 Winter Season is the must-have bag of the season.

A sturdy top handle with detachable shoulder strap and numerous practical inside compartments, the Fabala bag is made of 100% lamb leather, a mixture of suede and nappa leather. I like how the lamb suede on the leaf appliques contrasts sharply with the buttery soft nappa leather on the bag body.

What makes this bag a stunner is how the leaf appliques, with pretty decorative stitches, come together to create a flower pattern which forms the basic design of the bag. Indeed, florals brighten up the winter.

Available at Hugo Boss boutique for$2,389.

Image: Hugo Boss

Gucci Teddy Bear Bag

2009-10-30T00:37:00.004+08:00

These Gucci teddy bears are not only adorable, they are practical too. Inside each teddy bear is a foldable shopping bag. Honestly speaking, nothing great about the bag at all. It's the teddy bear I'm after. I like to think of it as a bag charm that has an added feature of a shopping bag.

Get it at all Gucci stores for $510 (tote bag) and $810 (backpack).

Image: Bagdonna

Bag Charms

2009-10-27T23:42:00.014+08:00

Much as I like to accessorize, I like to give my bag that special touch by adding a matching bag charm. Bag charms can make all the difference especially if you happen to like a bag that almost everyone is toting around. One of my all-time favorite bags, the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvass Speedy 35 , is one such example. I dress it up with the Mini Lin Bag Charm to stand out from the crowd.

The Prada Teddy Bear Keychain released in 2008 for the holiday season. Got wind that these Prada Teddy Keychain will be back again this year. I am so looking forward to a pink one.

The Lady Dior bag charm which houses a mirror, a blusher and lipstick. Seems like the next best thing to owning a Lady Dior (still on my wish list).

And finally, the Gucci LuLu (the Poodle) Bag Charm. Will definitely make a bag look like a million bucks. Unfortunately, I've yet to find a Gucci bag I like to go with it.

At all Gucci Stores $260.

Images: Bagdonna

Balenciaga Quilted Bag

2009-10-25T23:30:00.006+08:00

The fate of the Chanel Coco Cocoon line brings to mind another tragedy. This time from Balenciaga.

Spotting these Balenciaga Quilted bags sitting in the window display instantly triggered memories of me dozing off on a comfy, plush classic couch in a hotel lobby.

Even though studs are all the rage now, having them on these bags to form the quilted pattern does little to salvage the situation.

The designer probably drew insipration from deep-buttoned plush upholstery.

Image: Bagdonna

Chanel Coco Cocoon

2009-10-25T22:03:00.007+08:00

The Chanel Coco Cocoon line of bags remind me that winter is round the corner. Sometimes, I really wonder if the stuffs we put inside our bags need the same protection as our body during cold weather. Either way, I don't expect something so hideous from Chanel. I mean, these bags look more like goose-down jacket to me. And whoever displayed these bags are not doing them any justice either.

Image: Bagdonna

Bottega Veneta Maxi Veneta Intrecciato

2009-10-23T21:34:00.009+08:00

Mention Bottega Veneta and hand-woven leather springs to mind. It is most famous for its signature Intrecciato line of woven leather, And of course the lushest and most supple of leather. Almost all bags are luxuriously lined with suede leather.

The Veneta Intrecciato is one of BV's iconic bags. It is available in 4 sizes- Mini, S, L and Maxi. Maxi is not available in Singapore. It comes in BV's classic colors of Ebano(pictured above) and Nero (black). For Fall-Winter 2009/2010, it comes in shades of pink and lilac.

What draws me to this bag is its clean line and a complete lack of hardware, save the zipper. As with most of their bags, the designer probably wants their famous leather to do all the talking.

This bag would go well with almost anything you wear. Measuring 9.8x21.5x1.2inches, the Maxi Veneta Intrecciato is a huge bag. But the gravity of the stuffs you put inside will 'pull' the bag down and make it appear smaller. The result- a soft, slouchy look which is exactly what I love.

Image: Bagdonna

Stella Mccartney For Lesportsac

2009-10-23T00:20:00.009+08:00

Stella Mccartney is one of my all-time favourite designers. Her works are as famous as the well-known fact that she is the daughter of ex-beatle Sir Paul Mccartney.

In addition to her main line and a long-term partnership with adidas, she has also designed for Lesportsac and H&M which sold out worldwide in record time.

A touch of feminity with a bit of edginess are hallmarks of her designs.

This eco-friendly bag, made from 100% recycled material, was from the LeSportsac Limited Edition Travel Collection for Spring/Summer 2008.

A lifelong vegetarian, she uses no fur or leather in all her designs. As Gweneth Paltrow puts it:" Did you know your superchic Stella handbag is vegan?"(TIME)

Image: Bagdonna

Louis Vuitton Mahina L

2009-10-21T18:57:00.007+08:00

When Louis Vuitton launched its first Mahina collection, I think it made some bag aficionados sit up. Finally, something soft, slouchy and unstructured in supple calf leather. However, what really gets to me is the technology used for the perforation of the monogram motif; the same technology initially created for very high precision aeronautics and aerospace pieces. The result is a fine and very regular perforation pattern of monogram motifs. And the best part, the monogram motifs will NEVER fade, as evident in the Monogram Canvas after years of wear and tear.

This Mahina L in Cognac is available at all Louis Vuitton stores for $4190.

Image: Bagdonna

News Flash- ION Orchard

2009-10-20T23:40:00.013+08:00

With the biggest names in international fashion fronting its strong facade and a signature futuristic architecture, ION Orchard has undoubtedly given Singapore's premier shopping belt,

Orchard Road, a facelift. Set to revolutionize shopping here, it houses six duplex flagship stores, namely LV, Prada, Cartier, D&G, Giorgio Armani and Dior. Brands new to our shore or having their first stand-alone boutiques include Dsquared2, Vivienne Tam, DVF and Herve Leger just to name a few.

With its eye-catching fluid canvass covering its entire facade for showcasing its retail brands as well as for multimedia 'live' telecasts such as runway shows, it's hard to give ION Orchard a miss. Being a self-confessed shopaholic and a fashionista wannabe, I welcome it with open arms.

Image: Bagdonna

Bagging The Best Deal- Chanel Classic Flap 2.55

2009-10-19T15:33:00.012+08:00

Like me, you'd have guessed that Paris is the cheapest city to bag this Chanel classic. According to a survey done by a fashion magazine, London is the cheapest, followed by New York and then Paris. The most expensive city goes to Tokyo with Shanghai following a close behind. This is partly due to the fact that these two countries impose a tax on all its luxury goods. Do note that this information may change with the volatility of the exchange rate. So do your homework before venturing out.

Image: Bagdonna

Caring for my white leather bag- The Balenciaga Giant Part-Time

2009-10-17T23:13:00.018+08:00

For many if us, white is the color of choice most of the time, whether it's a shirt, a car, a watch and yes, a bag. There is something ethereal about this color that is so appealing to the human eye. Unfortunately, most people would bypass it due to its high maintenance.

Balenciaga bags come in a mind-goggling array of colors. But I knew instantly white would be the unanimous choice to go perfectly well with this hardware- its other hardware is the original but that will be another story another day.

I store my white Balenciaga Giant Part-Time in acid-free tissue (available from art supply store) to preserve its whiteness. I also make sure it stays away from colored bags and dark colored clothings so colors don't transfer.

Disaster struck the first time I used it when the dye from my indigo blue jeans transfered to the bag and almost ruined my holiday. As the damage wasn't very extensive, I was able to 'restore' it to its original condtion with get COLUMBUS SHOE CLEANER, something I learnt from a SA working in a luxury boutique.

Get it from the shoe department of major dapartmental stores for $6.

As with any cleaner, always test it on a small area first.

Image: Bagdonna

Gotta Have it!- Prada Fairy Bag

2009-10-16T18:13:00.028+08:00

This shot was taken off the window display of a Prada store in Milan. Yes. The country of origin for Prada.

The sky had turned dark, the shop closed and the lighting in the window display oh so dim. "The Fairy bag in pink?!" I rubbed my eyes to make sure they weren't playing tricks on me. I had seen the bag only in white on the internet, in magazines and in Paragon (a sample piece not for sale).

There was so much hype surrounding this bag that there was a waiting list for it. And here it is, in pink. Must be a rarity, I guess.

Bent on getting the bag (never mind that my card had almost reached its credit limit), I went back to the store first thing the next morning. "It's the ONLY one in Milan." The SA quipped. "Deal!" I replied.

Today, it is sitting pretty in my wardrobe. And it's pink. My favorite color.

Image: Bagdonna

My First Love - Celine Bittersweet Bag

2009-10-15T09:24:00.013+08:00

What better way to start this blog than by introducing my first love-the Celine Bittersweet bag. It is my first 'serious' bag. I've had many bags before but most were bought for brand's sake merely for elevating my status, or so I thought. All these changed after a chanced meeting with a bag reseller and the rest as they say is history. Today, I am a proud owner of a small collection of bags, all acquired through careful consideration. Now I pay attention to details like the bag's shape and size and its hardware, right down to the uniformity of the stitching which is testament to a brand's craftmanship. I also like that the make of a bag has a rich heritage and tradition.

And no, this bag was not bought from the bag reseller.

Image: Bagdonna