December 1, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa
Designer Interview: CHia New York by June Chang
Are you gal’s fans of hardware, braidings, and various types of European leathers on handbags? I definitely am, and if you are too, listen up as I’ve got a couple of stuff to share. For the past couple of days, I’ve been pretty psyched out at the fact that I was given the privilege of conducting an interview with June Chang, designer and founder of CHîa New York. Pretty cool, huh? Miss. June Chang is a Taiwanese native who gained her inspiration off her families fine jewelry business. Collaborating bold hues with fine materials was taught to her, and in her works these artistic designs are still present. If you prefer deerskin, cowhide, buffalo or the delicate and smooth texture of lambskin, among her collection, you can find a variety of leathers to fit your taste. So you’re either a big bag type of girl, or you prefer the appeal of a feminine clutch, June Chang fulfills the wants of her customers by presenting various designs by CHîa for the consumer needs.

***June Chang Interview***
Deysa @ Bag Bliss: Share with us some exciting details of what to expect from CHîa New York for the upcoming season?
June Chang: For CHîa New York’s Fall09 collection, it’s a balance between sparkle and particle. You can expect more tailored, medium size and light-weight handbags For me, light-weight is the key.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: All of your bags are unique in their own way, but which design from your personal collection is your favorite?
June Chang: There are a couple of details that I’m obsessed with on each style of handbag I design. I tried to reach a balance and not overly design my collection. So, each style is unique yet simple. Blair is my favorite for Spring09.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: I read that your grandmother was a great inspiration to you, tell us about her style.
June Chang: My grandmother always taught me to observe things from different angles and to reach a balance in my life. Her style is modern, simple but extravagant. She loved to keep her outfits simple to showcase her own-designed jewelry.

She always mixed eastern and western elements into her daily life. She would mix a tailored & modified laced Chinese Qi-Pao (very much like a shift dress * down to the ankles) with a shawl and a pair of peep-toe heels. A simple but vivid color stone ring would be worn on her index finger to
contrast her laced shift dress.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: What are three of your favorite trends at the moment?
June Chang:
A) Convertible - Satchel/ messenger bag / Shoulder bag * all in one
B) Contemporary Clutches - less formal but with attitude
C) Turned locks or buckle as closure details

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: Name some designers that you admire.
June Chang: Comme des Garçons by Rei Kawakubo, Valextra, Judith Leiber, and Lyell by
Emma Fletcher.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: Which handbag are you carrying at the moment, and who is it by?
June Chang: CHîa New York * believe it or not; ever since my first bag was born, I’m always carrying my own handbags.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: List some stuff that we can find inside June Chang’s handbag, right now.
June Chang: Agenda, cell phone, lip gloss, sun glasses, hand sanitizer, small sketch pad, pens and my leather swatch book.

Deysa @ Bag Bliss: If you weren’t in the fashion industry, what would you be doing instead?
June Chang: Hmmm. very interesting. I switched from financial banking to fashion. I don’t know if I still would pick that route again at this timing. I would
definitely like to be a teacher in the future.

CHîa New York by June Chang:

The Moca- Who said petite handbags had to have petite straps? The fact that this satchel is essential for times of small needs and that its straps aren’t thin and fragile, is a plus in my book. Made of Italian Buffalo/Italian Cowhide leather.
The Ima- We are kicking the size up a notch with this beauty. It’s striking, elegant, and one of my favorite CHîa pieces. Foiled metallic Italian lambskin gives this shoulder bag a luscious appeal, making this a great evening piece, as well as a day clutch. I love the extra elegance of the metal chains and a detachable shoulder strap can be found on this piece as well. …and of course, how cute is that bow?
The Asianna- Made of Italian Buffalo/Italian Cowhide leather, the Asianna is my favorite big bag by CHîa. Its details are beyond amazing. First of all, that rich and glossy hue is striking. I’m a fan of braided handles and the thick braids found on this piece are just perfect. A front pocket with the turn lock hardware and the shape of the satchel itself is excellent! If you love the Asianna, you can find it in grey and black as well.
The Nora- For the tote lovers, CHîa presents the Nora. Made of Italian embossed deerskin leather and measuring 14” x 16” x 3”, it’s big but not bulky. Double detachable shoulder straps can be found on this bag and it retails for $488.

You can purchase CHîa goods via the internet at: Chiainc.net

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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 everywhere! I can’t wait to own something as cheerful as these pieces are. In case you aren’t familiar with, meet the Small Oslo bag by Borge Garveri exclusively for J. Crew. How fun are these colors? I seriously can’t decide whether I like dark peony or terra cotta the best. By the way, as I was mentioning, the bold (fun) colors are on sale for $199 as the neutral hues of champagne and ash, (being colors more popular at the moment), retail at a regular price of $225. Made of full-grained naked leather and containing an attractive resin horn turn lock, the price for these pieces are absolutely worth it. Where else could you land a nice leather handbag at such a great price? Quality wise, I can’t precisely tell you how well J. Crew collection handbags hold up with time, but I can say that if you’re a fan of the Oslo bag, you can buy it via the Internet at: J.Crew

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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, but I cant deny how awesome the Convertible Bracelet Tote sounds. It doesn’t matter what brand you own, if you have a convertible style handbag in your collection, you really know how handy that piece can be. Plus, the style is pretty popular at the moment as well. I love how this bag has the metal bracelet handle, the leather top handle, and the detachable shoulder strap, allowing you various ways to carry this piece. So whether you choose to carry this bag as a messenger, arm, hand, or a clutch, it’s impressive how you can get so many styles off one single bag. So brown and stone aren’t really your colors? You can find the Bracelet Tote in the grey/light grey or red/grey patterns as well. Being a versatile style and Balenciaga of course, this tote won’t sit on the sales rack for too long. For $1,432, you can pick up the Balenciaga Convertible Bracelet Tote via: Bluefly
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November 25, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Valentino Noeud Tote
I’m a true fanatic of Valentino Garavani’s 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 favorite Valentino, and with all due respect to any fans out there, I can’t decide whether this piece is inspired by a feminine bow or straightjacket design. What a great piece was emerging, until that clutter in the middle settled in. The concept of buttery Nappa leather and the tier of ruffles were fine details, but seriously, what is going on right in the center? Must its details really have been so complicating? Would a nice and identifiable bow detail have been more pleasant? Or maybe a different color would have improved this piece. Eventually, every designer will come out with something that isn’t a crowd pleaser, and I don’t know what you ladies think, but personally, I’m not in awe over this tote. Valentino handbags do cost a pretty penny, as the Noeud Tote does carry a steep price tag of $3,495! Ladies, what’s your input on this tote, and most importantly, would you wear this?

Pre-Order this Valentino over at Saks.com

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November 24, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Felix Rey Love & Peace Tote
Any fans of handbags with bold messages on them? As we approach the winter seasons, it seems like the holidays are times to be extra loving, caring, and all that good stuff. Depending on where you reside, that might or might not be the case, but I’d like to share with you this entirely cheerful tote by Felix Rey. Meet the Love & Peace tote, and it’s pretty self-explanatory how this bag got its name. It’s big, bright, and you’re sure to spread such a lovely message this holiday season. Show off the “LOVE” message as the heart-shaped “O” doubles as a patch pocket, or wear the dove and peace-script out towards the public. Whichever side you choose, its concept is nice. So I’ll kick into reality for just a bit… this tote isn’t really something I would wear. It’s not my style, it’s a bit too cheerful, and if I were to give into this piece, I don’t think I would get much wear out of it. Plus, the $450 price tag for this tote bag is nowhere near convincing for me. Ladies, what’s your input on the Love & Peace tote? Would you wear this?
Spread the Holiday cheer! Find this tote at: ShopBop

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November 20, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Marc Jacobs TooPocket Hobo
I 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 I’m definitely not complaining. Fresh off the pages of eLuxury (dot com) is the lovely Large Toopocket hobo, by Mr. Marc. I dig the vibrant hue, the shiny silver hardware, and just as I’m about to give this hobo a two-thumbs up, I realize that the material of choice is not leather, but coated canvas instead. Of course there is nothing wrong with good ‘ole canvas lining, as I myself own quite a few canvas pieces, but I really expected such a nice design to be lined with gorgeous Marc Jacobs leather. Maybe I’m just exaggerating and whining too much, but does anybody else agree with me? More details found on this hobo include, protective metal feet and a leather nameplate. Also, $750 for a Marc Jacobs Collection handbag seems like a bargain to me, especially since we’re not talking about any itty-bitty handbag here. If you love the color, style, and the fact that normal wear is pretty low maintenance, you can find this Marc Jacobs piece, at: eLUXURY

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November 19, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Stephane Verdino Metallic Messenger
Looking for something different and eye catching? I think I’ve found a solution over at Saks (dot com). The Metallic Messenger Bag by Stephane

Verdino is really something else. It’s that in your face color that brought this bag to my attention, as for the designer himself is somewhat new to large specialty stores, such as Saks. Launching his collection in 2006, Stephane Verdino is known for styling bold and logo-less handbags in attempt to give off a luxurious feeling. The truth is, I don’t know much about this French designer, and I do believe that a luxury brand appeal is his intention, but I just can’t see this “luxurious” attempt on this piece. The shimmering metallic hue is fun, but other than that, I can’t imagine actually wearing this piece. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s looks a bit “cheap”, as in something I could find in a discounted rack store. Other details found on this piece include, a front flap with no closure, stud details and no lining… ? Surprisingly, this tacky messenger bag retails at a pricey $475! Ladies, what’s your input on this Metallic Messenger, and most importantly, would you wear this?

Shop Stephane Verdino’s collection at: Saks Fifth Avenue

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November 18, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Balenciaga Giant Work Bag
Here’s some exciting news for you Balenciaga fanatics out there. While browsing along one of my favorite websites, I spotted this pretty among the clutter of discounted designer goods over at BlueFly (dot com). Can you believe a Giant Work Balenciaga for up to 20% off? Originally retailing for $1,725, you can find this pretty for only $1,380! All right, so it’s still costs a pretty penny, but we’re talking about one serious discount here. Of course, the infamous naturally distressed chevre leather is found on this piece, and silver giant hardware gives this bag the perfect touch of luxurious bling. Measuring in at 18” x 10” x 8”, Balenciaga’s Work has always been my favorite size, although I haven’t given into one yet. Maybe this is the one. But when it comes to a beautiful bag as this Work is, especially if its selling at one amazing discounted price, chances are, their not going to last vey long on the sales rack. Unfortunately, I’ll be missing out on this deal, but I do urge you gals in search of a Giant Balenciaga Work to head on over to Bluefly and quick, before this beauty is gone!

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November 17, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

PUMA Campus Grip Bag
Kick it to the gym old school with PUMA’S Campus Grip Bag. We’re approaching that time of the year where we tend to bend the diet a bit and give the gym routine a day off, or two. I’m telling you girls; some of us do let the holiday sweets get in the way of our will power! As for me, I plan to discipline myself in staying focused and strong during the holidays, and something that always works for me is buying new workout gear, and of course, a new bag leaves no exceptions! I personally didn’t pick up this Puma bag, but this piece is pretty cool. I get that vintage and sporty vibe off this satchel, yet it pretty simple as well. I love the large 11” x 20” x 6” dimensions, making it roomy enough for at least all of my gear. I must state that the material of choice is in fact pebbled faux leather, which left me just a bit disappointed. What’s my favorite thing about this piece? It’s definitely going to be the $60 price tag. Large and under $100 bucks, that’s good enough for me. As I have quite a collection of gym bags, I probably won’t be buying this PUMA, but if you seek a new edition, you can find this piece in Black or Metallic Silver, at shopbop.com!

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November 13, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Louis Vuitton Riviera Galliera Bag
Attention Louis Vuitton fanatics, there’s a new limited edition piece out in the market (cruise 2009) and wow is she pretty! I remember when I first laid eyes on the gorgeous French Riviera scene projected in the eyes of Louis Vuitton. They (three different color schemes) were colorful, pleasant, and detailed on Vuitton’s beautiful silk scarves. These scarves were released during the Summer of this year, and of course they sold out quick. So we can finally say that the handbag caught up! The Riviera scene in purples, reds, and ivory is printed among Vuitton’s popular Galliera shoulder bag this time around. Cotton canvas instead of coated canvas lines the exterior of this Galliera and a surprising fifteen layers of dyed cotton overlap and form the image projected on the body of the bag. Gold hardware including the stunning Louis Vuitton Inventeur plague can be found decoring this piece, and 19.3” x 13.4” x 8” happens to be the dimensions of this large bag. It’s no surprise that limited edition Vuitton’s don’t come cheap, as this piece carries a price tag reading $1,940. If you’ve got the cash, you can purchase this work of art over at eLUXURY!

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November 12, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Marc Jacobs Big Heart Zip Clutch
Tis’ the season to dress up and attend some of the nicest parties of the year. I don’t know if I stand alone when I say, that I love winter holiday get togethers! I always look forward to picking out the cutest party dresses and accessories of course. To such events, clutches are the common bag of choice, as an everyday bag would probably break an outfit, so I’m forced to cram my belongings into small pieces. The long struggle of stuffed clutches doesn’t end just yet, there’s hope! Many designers such as Marc Jacobs have released larger than ordinary clutches in the past, such as this piece, meet the Big Heart Zip Clutch. My first judgment towards this piece was that it seemed too Valentine-ish with all those hearts piled up against each other, but the vibrant fuchsia color and the great dimensions of 11 x 6.5 x 2.5 changed my opinion towards it. It’s cute, girly, and not your ordinary party clutch. You can pick up this assembly of hearts carrying a not so hearty price tag of $795! Not bad for a Marc Jacobs collection piece, but definitely steep for yet-another seasonal clutch.

Shop Marc Jacobs Collection over at: eLUXURY

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November 8, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Louis Vuitton Damier Tate
I never understood why Louis Vuitton has so many shoulder bag designs’ in the popular Monogram canvas, and why they were limited in the Damier pattern. Apparently, somebody over at Vuitton Headquarters got the note, as a nice amount of Damier shoulder bags have been recently released with more to come in the near future. In case you haven’t already, meet the Damier Canvas Tate bag. It’s about time more over the shoulder handbags were made and available in the hassle free Ebene canvas, and personally, I really like this design. I own the Hampstead MM and sometimes, it can be a hassle having to deal with not one, but two stiff shoulder straps. Convenience wise, the Tate bag has one adjustable flat leather shoulder strap, which suits this hobo, finely. I love the extra bling of the golden Louis Vuitton Inventeur plaque, and the Tate bag houses this stunning detail as well. Being a newly released item, I was quite impressed that eLuxury would have this piece available for sale so soon. At the moment, you can find the Petite Model for $945 and the Grand Model size for $1,110.

Beat the next Louis Vuitton price increase, here: eLUXURY

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November 8, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

FENDI Ombre Logo Basket Totes
Any Ombre fans out there? I’m a fan of the graduate light to dark design, and of course, that’s only when its done right. The House of Fendi introduces to the World of Fashion this odd looking piece of theirs, meet the Ombre Logo Basket Tote. In my book, mixing logos and hue shadings are a definite no, I mean, it must be stunning in order to catch my attention. Take for example Louis Vuitton’s Mirage collection released this past summer, those pieces were simply stunning, and the collaboration of logos and Ombre was acceptable among Vuitton fans. But Fendi has got some serious issues going on with these newbie’s of theirs. I apologize to any fans of this piece, but these are horrid. I can’t imagine these coated vinyl totes being the next “it” bag of the season. This Basket tote looks replicated and cheap, and it all starts with the cluttered logo design and ends with that odd looking leather Fendi plague right up front. Seeking to carry something beyond different? You can find Fendi’s latest designs in Red Multi or Blue Multi for an exaggerating price tag of $1,030. Umm… Fendi, not on these totes!

Shop Fendi goods at: eLUXURY

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November 4, 2008
post written by Bag Bliss blogger: Deysa

Chloe Yak Chain Link Purse
Fashion shows are always electrifying, and although the whole concept is fun, I always look forward to the hip runway music and of course, the handbags! The presentation of the latest runway bags is always exciting, as you never really know what to expect. Each season, the limited pieces are either amazing or awkward and something you couldn’t possibly invest on. The House of Chloé presents us Bagista’s with the Chain Link Shoulder Bag, and obviously it isn’t too limited, as you can purchase this piece via the internet at, Net-A-Porter. Mauve leather, stone detailing, gold hardware, and exotic python leather dyed purple, collaborate to form this couture shoulder bag. Personally, this is something I wouldn’t get much wear out of as A.) It’s too small to sport everyday and B.) I really don’t go to many formal events. Although I will admit that this little gem sure is pretty, I do find it quite busy as well. Pretty does cost, as this mini handbag will cost you a whooping $3,805!!! Ladies, what’s your input on this Chloé, and how many of you gals would actually spend so much on such a small piece?

Shop Chloé goods over at: NET-A-PORTER.COM

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