Sunday, November 30, 2008

Thomas Wylde Henna Nailhead Stud Bag

November 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Thomas Wylde Henna Nailhead Stud Bag
Paula Thomas is at it again! This time around, however, her would be hit just might be a total miss. Introducing the Thomas Wylde Henna Nailhead Stud Bag. No skulls, no spiders, no spikes… heck, it’s not even black. This bag does [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Rue La La Sample Sale: Vera Bradley Handbags

Are you a fan of Vera Bradley handbags? If so, you are going to be pumped to hear they are having a sample sale over at ruelala tomorrow.
Expect great deals, like up to 70% off on the latest.
If you need an invite just email me at Jennifer@BagBliss and I’ll send one your way.
Other places to [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Samsonite Luggage Deals

Is it time to trade in your luggage for something new? If so, now is totally the time with all those fabulous deals floating around.
And since it’s the holiday season, I am sure many of you are going to be doing some traveling to visit family, or go on a vacation.
So naturally, here at the [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Happy Turkey Day

While you wait for Thanksgiving dinner, here is something to oogle over.....Happy Turkey day everyone!

Image Source: Net a Porter


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[Source: I am Fashion]

Coach Cares: celebrity charitable campaign

This program was designed to celebrate the spirit of giving with some of our favorite celebrity fans, including Jessica Alba, Elizabeth Banks, Halle Berry, Evangeline Lilly, Mandy Moore, and Ryan Reynolds, among others.
This fashionable and philanthropic group has selected their must-have holiday items and now through December 31st 20% of proceeds of those items will [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

ebay seller Let-Trade

If you’re a daily reader then you know Bag Bliss loves Let-Trade for many reasons: 100% feed back on over 2,444 authentic designer items, most of which are handbags. This is a seller you need to bookmark.
A couple beauties of the week:
Balenciaga magenta shoulder bag w/ GSH - $1099
Hermes soft flat kelly 35 in light [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Black Friday Luna Boston - not too late to save!

It’s not too late to save over at Luna Boston
From 2:00pm - Midnight EST Save 20% off everything in the store.
No restrictions except not valid on pre-orders.
Only valid today the 28th, and you must use the code blackfriday08.
Black Friday Luna Boston

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Kooba Natasha Soft Shopper Bag

November 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRs

Kooba Natasha Soft Shopper Bag
When it comes to handbags in my own collection, I seem to prefer smaller ones. Reading my blog posts, however, most people probably wouldn’t gather that. But just because I like bags that are of a “manageable” size for me, it doesn’t mean [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Balenciaga Convertible Bracelet Tote

November 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Balenciaga Convertible Bracelet Tote
If you�re in search of Balenciaga on sale, I suggest you Bagista�s head on over to BlueFly (dot com) A.S.A.P! For the past couple of days I�ve seen some amazing deals via BlueFly such as this pretty. Us Balenciaga fans love the motorcycle line, [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Botkier Layla Pleated Pocket Satchel

November 28, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Marissa

Botkier Layla Pleated Pocket Satchel
Ever since the Botkier sample sale on Gilt.com a couple months back or so, I’ve took more notice to Botkier handbags. Before the sample sale I had heard of Botkier handbags but never took the time to really check the handbags out. While [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

J.Crew Small Oslo bag

November 26, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

J.Crew Small Oslo bag
Residing in South Texas brings its residents scorching hot weather yearlong, so as we enter the winter seasons, an Arctic breeze in the 40�s is cold enough to make me wish for sunshine again. It�s cold, its gloomy, and black and brown handbags are [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/29

Hope everyone is having a great Thanksgiving weekend and got some great bargains yesterday! With the official start of the holiday season, the markets are also looking a bit brighter. Kind of.

On Monday, Citigroup was bailed out from its recent troubles, with a $20 billion capital injection from TARP in exchange for preferred shares and a government agreement to guarantee over $300 billion of their troubled assets. The shares went from $3.77 last Friday (as I remember, but could be a bit off) to $8.29 yesterday. It would've been an easy way to double your money quick! Citi was simply too big and international to be allowed to fail.

On Tuesday, the latest economic data were released, citing a 0.5% decline in GDP from July-September, more than the 0.3% announced a month ago. Home prices also dropped a whooping 17.4% from a year ago, a record decline. Along with this bad economic data however, the Fed also announced a new $800 billion program to support asset-backed securities including consumer loans and mortgage-backed securities:
  • $100 billion to buy up debt issued by government-sponsored mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks
  • $500 billion to buy up mortgage securities backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae
  • $200 billion facility to support consumer finance, including student, auto, and credit card loans and loans backed by the federal Small Business Administration
Designed as a life line for consumers, it is supposed to help consumers get home, car and credit card loans easier. I haven't figured out all the implications of this program is. I am still astounded by the sudden $800 billion splurge. Last time they announced a splurged $700 billion, there were long congress hearings and deliberations for at least a week. Where was the hearing and deliberation here (or have I just been unaware of the politics?)? Regardless, this has run the financial crisis tab to $7.36 trillion- double what was spent on WW2 adjusted for inflation!

Overseas, the latest headline to up the pirate fiasco last week (not that it has gone away), is the terrorist attack in Mumbai, India. I thought that Mumbai and Delhi were pretty civilized and safe these days with their strong economic growth and development. That is why I was so shocked to hear that the city was attacked by terrorists who randomly shot at people on the streets and hijacked 2 of the most luxurious hotels there, the Taj Mahal and the Oberoi, and a Jewish center, taking and killing many hostages! The latest death toll as of Saturday evening was at least 183. The terrorists, were well trained and in their 20s. They arrived in Mumbai by boat and the whole thing appeared to be very well planned. They suspect that the gunmen are from Pakistan and that this may have something to do with the dispute in Kashmir.



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[Source: I am Fashion]

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

J.Crew Small Oslo bag

November 26, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: DeysaJ.Crew Small Oslo bagResiding in South Texas brings its residents scorching hot weather yearlong, so as we enter the winter seasons, an Arctic breeze in the 40s is cold enough to make me wish for sunshine again. Its cold, its gloomy, and black and brown handbags are [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street.... Except for the Cellphone..., Milan


...this looks like it could be Rome circa 1963

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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street.... Week in the Knees, NYC & Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

DIY: paint your own Juicy Couture Canvas Bag & Washable Markers

Do you have a creative youngster on your holiday shopping list? Encourage creativity with a tote she can design herself - discover the DIY project by Juicy Couture.The Juicy Couture set comes with a chamonix (pink) canvas tote bag with “Soooo Juicy” print and eight washable markers. Set arrives in beribboned box. It’s washable too.Find [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Kooba Natasha Soft Shopper Bag

November 26, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRsKooba Natasha Soft Shopper BagWhen it comes to handbags in my own collection, I seem to prefer smaller ones. Reading my blog posts, however, most people probably wouldn’t gather that. But just because I like bags that are of a “manageable” size for me, it doesn’t mean [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

The "S Dress"

Just because HG is taking a break from blogging doesn't mean that we've stopped overanalyzing fashion in our free time (our gmail chain frequently goes above the 100 limit). Our latest topic of obsession?
I like to call it the "S dress," because when HG first showed me, it reminded me of S. And when we showed it to other friends, they also thought it looked like something S would wear. I guess we all had the same look in mind- the two toned dress S wore to the Dean's dinner party at Yale (btw, it is a totally inappropriate dress for a college recruiting event).It's form fitting, sophisticated and sexy, but youthful and modern at the same time.
S continues to favour this style later in the season for Thanksgiving. Granted the skirt is overly tight and short and not exactly the most flattering dress on her (or on anyone I should think), you can see how the concept and style is very similar. And thus, the "S dress."In particular, we are loving this two toned dress by FCUK (left). I love this yellow/black contrast, while HG is thinking of the red/gray-or silver combo. The contrast and shapes makes it cute, colorful and young, but the style and cutting lends it sophistication. It is dressy enough for a nice dinner, but not so formal that you can't drop by a club afterwards. It's really quite a clever design! Sadly for me, I must be deformed, because I tried it on the other day and the fit was way off. While everywhere else fitted tightly (so tightly in fact that I couldn't even twist to zip up!), the chest part was loose. HG is still in love though and she's thinking of getting it tailored.

We also found a very similar version of this dress over at Ted Baker, though with the white t shirt top, it is much more casual and is perfect for a day out.

Image Source: Gossip Girl, ASOS and FCUK


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[Source: I am Fashion]

Saks Girl

I think I need to convert to Saks girl, because they are officially my favourite department store this season. After having walked through Barneys and Bloomies (judging from the crowd, I assume Neiman Marcus to be the same), I can officially say that Saks is offering the BEST deals this sale season! Earlier this month (when I was pondering over my pink skirt), they had that weekend of extra 40% off already on sale items. While everyone else is currently doing that however, Saks has moved on to taking 50% off already on sale items, there are also a LOT more on sale items too! This sale began last week (privately) for Saks card holders and I heard the Saks New York was flooded with customers, literally fighting over each other for the latest stocks as they unpacked the boxes. This week it is open to everyone and it's craaaazy (I believe they are having a "black week" instead of black friday, so better get there early!).

To begin with, the traffic on their website must be phenomenal, because the website is constantly down and I'm led to a "Sorry we're experiencing technical problems" page every few clicks. And when I DO get onto the page, it appears that many sizes are already out!
Luckily for me, Saks Fifth in Chicago is not exactly the busiest department store in town (this honor belongs to Nordstroms and Bloomies) and there were still some stuff left in my size (kind of) when I visted today. So I swiped this Rebecca Taylor dress for 1/3 of the price!! I believe it was 40% off and then another 50% off. I was considering it when it was at 40% off, but when I saw it was another 50% off, it was almost a no brainer. It's not super special, but if you look at it more closely, it has mini dark purple polka dot prints on it in felt. And when you swirl, the dress swirls with you. It just feels so cute and fun! The back is also a racer back design, which I thought was very intriguing. I am super happy with this find (besides the fact that I had to get it in a 4 instead of a 2, but I figure that the dress is supposed to be a bit loose!).
What got me super psyched and smiling all the way home and then dancing around wearing them like a crazy person (in the privacy of my apartment of course) though were these Stuart Weitzman pumps (except mine are actually sling backs). I've been eying them for a week now, ever I caught sight of them on the sales rack. I asked HG what she thought and we agreed that they were very classic looking pumps and would be worth it (it was at 40% off back then). So today when I passed the shoe floor and saw that the racks (and the whole floor for that matter) was literally empty, I had to stop by and check out my shoes. Lo and behold, they were also another 50% off. I was SO psyched, I immediately picked them up and tried them on even though the store was closing then. Unfortunately they only had a size 5.5 left (I'm a 6). But since they're sling backs, I didn't think half a size mattered as I can adjust the straps. Also, I tried them on and made sure that my feet isn't sticking out the back (a big no no). While I was waiting for the sales guy to get me the full pair, I watched women all around me in a flurry grabbing and trying on shoes, furiously sweeping up 70% off Jimmy Choo boots and Louboutins in a mad rush to buy all they can before the sales people refuse to serve us. It was quite an amazing sight. THIS was what I'd imagined black friday to be- I guess there won't be much left now for black friday (we asked and they're not planning to restock, they've been on this mode all week). It's a good thing I got to my pumps on time!

It's amazing what a good bargain can do for one's constitution. As you can tell, I am still super hyped about it :D

Image Source: Saks


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[Source: I am Fashion]

Valentino Noeud Tote

November 25, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: DeysaValentino Noeud ToteIm a true fanatic of Valentino Garavanis luxurious and feminine designs. I always look forward to seeing what new items Valentino presents to the World of Fashion, and just take a look at this newbie. Fresh off the runway, the Noeud Tote isn’t exactly my [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street.... Greyt, Milan




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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Balenciaga Convertible Bracelet Tote

November 26, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: DeysaBalenciaga Convertible Bracelet ToteIf youre in search of Balenciaga on sale, I suggest you Bagistas head on over to BlueFly (dot com) A.S.A.P! For the past couple of days Ive seen some amazing deals via BlueFly such as this pretty. Us Balenciaga fans love the motorcycle line, [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street.... 9th Ave. & 23rd, NYC



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

ANTM Cycle 11- Spoiler!

At this point, I think I've come to accept ANTM as part of my life. Something I just mindlessly watch when it's on. You must admit, it's a nice indulgence. *spoiler alert*
Now that I've "come around" to this way of thinking, my expectations are lower and thus I thought this season's show was not bad! There was a bit of drama, there were pretty pictures, some cool themes (voting booths, award accidents, underwater eye level shots, hanging on hot air balloons etc), a bit of traveling (to Amsterdam)and some sweet prizes. They had fashion show opp prizes, shopping sprees and free designer clothes- it was pretty awesome! The window display challenge in the red light district of Amsterdam was refreshing. Plus they had a REALLY gorgeous Willy Wonka like pink runway in the finale. There was a mini "hill" at the beginning and the models had to run up it in their heels (otherwise they'd fall backwards), it was quite an entertaining scene! Though I thought at the beginning the whole space theme thing and turning a new leaf because it's the 11th cycle was a bit overplayed.
And the winner of Cycle 11 of ANTM is- McKey. She does have very stunning modelesque features and towards the end, I thought her pictures were one of the strongest.
I mean, you got to admit, she has definitely improved from her first photo at the voting booth. It looked like she had no idea....
...and then bam! Here we are. I thought she had some of the most interesting and varied poses in her shoots. She always tried new things and they worked. And did I mention her amazing features? Once they got to final 2, it was obvious who the winner is. Granted she's not who I was vouching for, I thought out of the two she deserved to win (she was a bit too tomboy for me and her walk was a bit "lurch" like as they said). By the way, I thought renaming herself McKey at the beginning was a genius move. It is SO much more interesting and memorable than Brittany.
As you may be able to tell by now, Sam wasn't my favourite girl. Everyone else loved her though, because she had the whole sunny, free California girl next door personality. Maybe I just prefer more serious, subdue personalities. Also, she just didn't LOOK like a model to me, because this girl absolutely cannot dress herself for her life. I still remember that horrible salmon colored v neck sweater and straight skirt she wore to panel, that even Tyra couldn't do anything *shiver*. I also didn't think this picture was as "all that" as all the judges thought. Though I didn't realize that she had only just turned 18 on the show, so I guess I should cut her some slack. Making it into the top 2 is pretty good (her walk was not much better than McKey's).
My favourite girl was Analeigh. Maybe I just have a preference for girls with long hair? She was just so SWEET. I loved her personality. She was sweet and cute in a more subdue and quiet kind of way. She also improved dramatically. I remember how she struggled at the beginning and I totally thought she'd be sent home. Her hot air balloon picture was absolutely tragic. Her legs look cut off.
But then she survived being in the bottom two and she finally got the hang of modelling. This is my favourite picture of her. You can see the skater in her and it's so edgy even though she looks so sweet normally. Another thing I loved about her was that she knew how to dress. She's mastered the shift dress and I'm amazed at how versatile her peace pendant was with all her outfits! Too bad about the Cover Girl commercial. It really was quite awful, especially considering how she ROCKED the other commercial! A strong contestant that got weak in the end was Marjorie. I think she actually has that natural model potential that would lead her far in the real world, just not in the world of reality TV. She has that perfect awkwardness and European-ness that makes her so model- she looks modelesque just STANDING there in her windmill photo. Just don't put her in any role where she needs to speak. Her jitters really would not work... But she DOES take some AMAZING photos. I loved this one here. It is so completely convincing! Though she was visibly weaker when she turned a "new leaf," like she lost her natural ability to model (though at times I found her hunchback signature pose a bit too much and she really looks like the hunchback of Notre Dame!).

Another contestant of note was Elina, the control freak. She started out strong and she thought she was so good, but her pictures were getting a bit monotonous. The whole cultural difference and Europeans don't express themselves was a bit too much. Clarke also did not see her elimination coming after she got best photo at the under water eye level shot. I liked Sheena and how she didn't play the whole Asian card on us like Gina did. Nikeysha reminded me of Saleisha, except Saleisha is pretty IMO (they even have the same haircut and similar names!). I remember being surprised by the whole drama with Hannah even though I don't quite remember why anymore (race?). Oh and of course there was Isis. She was strong at first! I'm very impressed with how feminine she looked given that she was a man. Her attitude was also very open, brave and admirable. Wasn't there a really similar contestant before, who kind of looked like her too, took great pictures at first and then dwindled?

I liked how they showed little clips of what other contestants from past cycles are doing now in between too. It's interesting to be reminded of them and see what they're doing now. It sounds like a lot of them signed with Elite anyway, even though they didn't win. Are Elite contracts that hard to come by then?

Image Source: CWTV

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[Source: I am Fashion]

On the Street....Those Shoes, Milan



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

ebay seller Let-Trade

If you’re a daily reader then you know Bag Bliss loves Let-Trade for many reasons: 100% feed back on over 2,444 authentic designer items, most of which are handbags. This is a seller you need to bookmark.A couple beauties of the week:Balenciaga magenta shoulder bag w/ GSH - $1099Hermes soft flat kelly 35 in light [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Introducing the Coach Resort 2009 Handbag Collection

November 25, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRsIntroducing the Coach Resort 2009 Handbag CollectionWay back when my love for handbags was in its infancy, I absolutely adored Coach Bags. But as time passed, their novelty began to wear off. I mean, what fun was there in owning a Coach bag if everyone and their [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Samsonite Luggage Deals

Is it time to trade in your luggage for something new? If so, now is totally the time with all those fabulous deals floating around.And since it’s the holiday season, I am sure many of you are going to be doing some traveling to visit family, or go on a vacation.So naturally, here at the [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

new TBF theme: Winter Wonderland

The winter wonderland theme is now up and running, so you have to go checking it out. There are 2 versions available: with snow and without, just in case the snow slows down your computer.To change your tBF theme scroll down to the bottom of the page and change using the drop down option or [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Rue La La Sample Sale: Vera Bradley Handbags

Are you a fan of Vera Bradley handbags? If so, you are going to be pumped to hear they are having a sample sale over at ruelala tomorrow.Expect great deals, like up to 70% off on the latest.If you need an invite just email me at Jennifer@BagBliss and I’ll send one your way.Other places to [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street.... Continuing Style, Paris




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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street.... Back Buttoned, Milan



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Sunday, November 23, 2008

FW08 Winter Hats

Besides the classic newsboy cap, the beanie and the beret, the latest winter hat twist to hit the scene this season are these half hoodies.
I first caught sight of them at Marc by MJ (left) and I thought, "whoa it looks like an oversized turtle neck- without the shirt part," and I didn't know what to think of it. In fact, to be honest I still don't. I thought maybe it is an Marc by MJ abberation and I should just ignore it. But no. It seems to be creeping up a lot more lately on both Shop Bop and Barneys. I mean, it's kind of neat in that it is like attachable hoodie you can put on any outfit you want and it serves as both a scarf and a hat. And with the looser kinds, I guess it does look a bit cool (or not as weird as I initially thought it was). But I think the show a little fringe rule applies here too (I can see myself burrow inside the hood, if I ever got this, with a dark hole as my face). What is everyone's consensus on these?
While I am undecided about the loose hoodies above, I am however very decided about these tighter hoodies. I don't like them. It looks like those ski masks people put over their heads, where you can only see their eyes, except here they widened the hole a bit so you can breathe. It just looks weird- especially as an accessory to an outfit it is not part of. If the model doesn't look that great in this... what are our chances?
Other hats of note. I just couldn't resist putting up this Sophia Costa floral knit beret (left). Even though at this point I have to admit that I am not a beret girl, I must say I love this hat. It just looks so artistic and pretty. I can totally see this on Gossip Girl. And speaking of morphing hat and scarf, I thought I'd throw in this Eugenia Kim combo (right). I think it works! Especially since the design is so simple but feminine. I imagine it would be very convenient to just grab this before you head out the door into the winter cold!
And for something a bit more conventional, I am in love with these two winter hats. The first one is a newsboy cap (left) with a twist, literally. The cap is designed to be on the side. Then there is this Mischa Lampert hat (right) which is simply adorable. Especially with the furry balls at the end. It's so festive! Plus, your ears will definitely be warm!

Image Source: Barneys and Shopbop


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[Source: I am Fashion]

Rafe Purse Sample Sale @ gilt groupe

Today is the day Rafe lovers, to score amazing deals on fabulous handbags by this designer for a fraction of what you would pay at any online department stores.Uhhu, that’s right. Rafe is today at Gilt.com and you don’t want to miss it.Email me if you need an invite at Jennifer@BagBliss.comOther places to find rafe:BlueflyRevolve [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street....Student Parisian, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Juicy Couture Quilted Buckle Bag

November 21, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: MarissaJuicy Couture Quilted Buckle BagLately, I have been absolutely obsessed with Juicy Couture. I use to only crave Juicy Couture clothes, but recently I’ve been craving the accessories, bags, clothes, shoes, etc. The latest Juicy Couture handbag that has be drooling is the Quilted Buckle Tote and [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street....Seen in Milan



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street.....Parisian Plaids, Paris





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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/21

It's been another exciting week! Almost comparable to that week in September/October, except no major banks collapse (yet) and there were no big mergers. The DOW finally broke the 8000 point after hovering around it for a month, on Wednesday, tumbling 5.1% in a day to yet another more than 5 year new low. The downward momentum continued into Thursday, until it finally went back up to 8000 levels towards the end of Friday.

The week started off with Pandit's speech at Citi, announcing their plan to cut 52,000 jobs (yike!) and cut expenses by 20%. Citi's share began falling as investors worry that these measures will not be able to revive Citi from its current situation- they lost $20.3 bn in the last year and some don't expect it to be profitable in 2009 as they worry about Citi's exposure to credit card/mortgage losses and toxic debt. On Thursday, Prince Alwaleed of Saudi Arabia announced that he was boosting his shares in Citi from 4% to 5%. That didn't give other investors much confidence (not everyone's Buffet), as Citi shares broke the $5 point that day (a 13 year low). This is a very dangerous level to be at, because many institutional investors are not allowed to own shares below $5 and this could trigger a wave of selling before year end. On Friday Pandit assured employees that he would like to keep the company together and does not wish to spin off its Smith and Barney brokerage unit (their crown jewel I guess?). Still, there are rumors of them finding a merger partner or raising capital in the future. Citi is also pressing members of Congress to put back the ban on short selling, as they claim that it is hurting their stock price. Citi's stock price ended $3.77 on Friday, down from $20 a month ago and $30 a year ago!

Following the lead of Golman and UBS, other Wall Street banks are being pressured to foregoe execute bonus this year. JP Morgan also announced that they will be cutting 10% of their workforce.

The other big driver this week was the auto industry. Discussions started looking bleak on Wednesday (and thus the huge drop on concerns of an even deeper recession if the auto industry collapses), as Congress members continue to bicker with the Big 3. I'm not too sure about the details (cars just don't interest me that much), but it sounds like they're concerned about whether taxpayer's money is going to waste since the auto industry was already not competitive before the this financial crisis and they want to see a sound plan to change them into healthier companies before they come to their aid. I believe the catch phrase of the week is, "You show us the plan, and we'll show you the money." Makes sense to me. They will be meeting again in December for the Big 3 to prove to American that they are worth saving. Oh and they seemed to have came up with a good source of where the $25 bn will come from too. Instead of from TARP, it will come from the money already approved in July to help make more environmentally friendly cars. They will give them this money in advance and the Big 3 will slowly pay back this amount into this pool of funds. Makes complete sense to me. That way, we're not creating extra debt.

Speaking of politics, Bernanke has not been very popular recently. His abrupt change of the use of TARP surprised many, leaving them to wonder what exactly they voted for. His annoucement that he doesn't plan to use the rest of the $350 bn of TARP until Obama's administration comes on board, making one question whether he's given up already. Claiming twice in the last week that the government's efforts have succeeded in stabilizing the financial system does not make it true- especially given the crazy market movement this week.

Another major factor contributing to the drop this week is the Fed slashing its outlook for the economy through 2009. They lowered the 2008 GDP forecast from 1-1.6% to 0-1.3% and forecasts that the economy could shrink by 0.2% in 2009. They also raised their unemployment projections sharply higher to 6.3% to 6.5% for 2008 and 7.1%-7.6% for 2009. In addition, the consumer price index also fell by 1% in October, the biggest drop since 1947, suggesting deflation. Many expect this recession would last longer than the middle of 2009. This is gloomy enough news to send anyone running.

Even Berkshire Hathaway was not immune to this market turbulence. On Wednesday, Berkshire plunged over 12%, its worst day since 1987's market crash. They've been getting a lot of bad press lately, with declining earnings in their insurance operations and stocks. They had 9 straight days of decline after they published their third quarter earnings report. Goldman Sachs and General Electric, Buffet's most recent purchases, also went below the price he got them for. Some suggested that he needed a new crystal ball. But on Friday, it Berkshire bounced by 16%, to $90,000. This week, Berkshire also got over $1 bn for its shares in Anheuser-Busch, a brewer, as the acquisition of it by InBev was formally completed. Buffet says he's not worried. Incidentally, Berkshire also significantly boosted its shares in ConocoPhillips this quarter, indicating that he's bull on oil.

On Friday Obama finally decided on the next Treasury Secretary- Timothy Geithner, the current president of the NY Fed Reserves. This appointment was welcoming news to Wall Street as it rallied back up into the 8000 levels. I'm not going to go into his history but he's had a LOT of experience and is widely seen as a good candidate for the job.

Overseas, Iceland finally got a $10.2 bn loan on Thursday, from the IMF, Dutch, British and the Nordic countries. And did you know that we still had pirates in this day and age? Earlier this week, it captured the Sirius Star, which has an oil cargo of about $100 mn worth. Apparently piracy is still very prevalent these days, there has been a record of 199 since the beginning of the year- most prominently in the Gulf of Aden near Somalia.
On Thursday, an Indian navy warship sank a Somali pirate vessel. It's like the Pirates of the Caribbean in modern times!


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[Source: I am Fashion]

Zufi Alexander handbags

November 20, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: MarissaZufi Alexander handbagsNot many people can say they have the privilege to own a Hermes Birkin at the young age of 16 like Zufi Alexander can. Zufi Alexander has always been exposed to fashion ever since she was a young girl due to her Mother. As stated [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

Jimmy Choo Mave foldover clutch in neon green

Okay so if you haven’t noticed, neon green is the color of the season for handbags. Remember the classic Bottega Veneta woven clutch I mentioned yesterday? Well how do you feel about the famous Mave painted in this electric color?I think it’s an interesting shade and with the right outfit it could work.. definitely a [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street....After Chanel, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Dooney & Bourke Shiny Leather Hayden Clutch

November 21, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: bRsDooney & Bourke Shiny Leather Hayden ClutchNo offense to Dooney & Bourke, but their designs have been so far off the handbag radar lately that they might as well not even exist. Why? Well, quite frankly, they are just plain ugly. Plus they are way too kiddie [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

At Prada, Milano


Remember that last Prada show where the girls kept falling down?

I was wondering if anyone got the shot - the hand on the right is me catching one of the girls as she fell.

The young lady in this photo had already fallen three times before she reached me and fell again about five steps past me. I have never seen a more terrified girl on the runway - it was very difficult to watch. Finally she took the shoes off and walked in bare feet the rest of the way. A lot of people had thought that the reason the girls kept falling was because the heels were too high. Actually, it was the little cotton socks that were inside the shoes. The girls couldn't keep their heels in the shoes correctly. If you think Lara Stone looks stern in her everyday life, she looked five times more serious trying to make it around the maze/catwalk in those shoes.

Did Miuccia ever explain her side of why the girls kept slipping? Maybe the samples were late and they were not able to check them correctly?

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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Marc Jacobs TooPocket Hobo

November 20, 2008post written by Bag Bliss blogger: DeysaMarc Jacobs TooPocket HoboI heart Marc Jacobs; he never fails to bore me with his creations. It seems like every two weeks or so, a new handbag of his is out in the market, and Im definitely not complaining. Fresh off the pages of eLuxury (dot com) [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

On the Street.... Ninth Ave., NYC



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Fashion News..

55 Secret Street thinks that even non-Oprah addicts can appreciate the sleek metallic makeup cases and other goodies from The Oprah Store.A Few Goody GumDrops loves spritizing the Kelly Caleche Perfume Jewel Lock Spray from Hermes!Stiletto Jungle found the perfect gift for your favorite office friend.Allie is Wired takes a look at Hollywood power [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

HauteLook Sample Sale: Alexis Hudson Bags

Did you miss out on HauteLook’s last Alexis Hudson purse sale? Well great news - the designer is set to be featured bright and early tomorrow morning at 8 am PST on the sample sale site.You don’t want to be late so I suggest you get there early.Here is the link to the sale!Other places [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

GQ Preview - Boots & Suits, NYC



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

The Bold Shoulder, Paris






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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Signs of Life, Paris


I was chit-chatting with Susan after I took this picture and mentioned that I thought her hair was sooo beautiful - her best feature.

She said thanks and added that she had lost her hair once because of cancer. She now purposely keeps it long because she feels it is such a gift to have it back and, for her, a sign of life.

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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street....Color Story #4, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street....Color Story #1, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Judith Leiber celebrates 45th anniversary. Event in NYC

Judith Leiber is inviting you all to celebrates their 45th anniversary with a benefit showcasing the brand’s handbags through the decades.Proceeds from this event will benefit the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House, the oldest and largest social services and educational organization.There will be hors d’oeuvre and a full bar.location: 680 Madison Ave., at 61st St. (212-223-2999)date/time: [...]

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[Source: Bag Bliss]

What I love about Carine


I love that Carine is always happy to stop and talk or have her picture taken with her fans.

Carine shows a genuine interest - Carine asked this young lady where she was from.

The girl walked away just beaming.

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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street....Vintage Sunday, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

On the Street....Color Story #3, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]

Gossip Girl, Last Season?

It's a bit of a late rant, but I've had it on my mind for a looong time now and I simply must just get it out of my system. Remeber the episode this season when they went to visit Yale?
Serena had on this pink and white striped blazer that is just absolutely gorgeous. The design is classic and preppy, while the color and stripes is pretty and flirty. And I REALLY wanted it. Like seriously. I immediately went online and looked up Gossip Girl websites trying to figure out where I can get myself one of those (which frankly, is not one of my fortes). Finally, I found it labelled as a Ralph Lauren blazer. Doh! I should've known. It is so obvious now, I wonder why I spent so much time searching for it to begin with.
Of course, I then hurried onto the Ralph Lauren website, crossing my fingers that it'll be from the RL label that is within my price range- and I couldn't find it! Not deterred, I told myself I'll stop by the RL store next time and ask if the sales person has it. Before I got myself there though, I showed it to my cousin who is positvely a RL expert and he told me that it was a blazer from last season. You have no idea how disapopinted I was (AM!). WHY would they style the characters of such a hot TV series in last seasons clothes? It doesn't make sense. Isn't the whole point of such publicity for labels is to convince viewers to buy these clothes? How did they think we can buy it when it's not even available?
Speaking of which, it reminds me of the second episode of this season (which aired in September) when Blair was coming back from the Hamptons with "the lord." She was in THE orange Marc by Marc Jacobs dress of SS08, which is so completely recognizable I was surprised they chose this dress at all. I'm sure a LOT of thought was put into their outfits by a hoard of stylist, so I don't know what they were thinking.
Because it has been publicized as such a stylish and trendy hot TV series (which I LOVE), I expect to see the latest fashions and style. I was sorely disappointed in these two instances. I am sure there are lots of other instances I haven't caught yet. Maybe the sponsors are getting cheap. Or am I expecting too much?

Image Source:
In Style and Gossip Girl online


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[Source: I am Fashion]

On the Street....Shirt & Skirt, Paris



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[Source: The Sartorialist]