Splurge of the Week!

Gucci Medium Original Backpack


Check out our new splurge of the week - a Gucci hobo that doubles as a backpack. It is highly in demand and one of the latest additions to the the Gucci collection. Available in classic GG-printed cotton jacquard, this hobo bag comes with handstitched leather trim, three front zip pockets, a detachable ID tag with embossed logo and inside zip, cell and PDA pockets. Just perfect for the trendsetter who loves extra storage.

Like it? Pre-order this item via Saks Fifth Avenue at $2,590.00

Stylish Fendi Bag

This large Zucca baguette is a combination of extra-large signature FF zucca with its classic zucca print, with an adjustable chain link shoulder strap with leather piece that rests comfortably on your shoulder. (Hey, we all know that chain link straps tend to dig into our skin, though not many will want to admit this, especially ardent fans of Chanel bags).

The Verdict: At first glance, I thought this was a rather mature-looking bag and dismissed it. When I popped into the Fendi boutique and saw this bag, I didn't think much of it either ... until curiosity got the better of me and I decided to sling it on my shoulder. And that's when I changed my mind about the bag. In fact, the bag proved to be rather expensive and classy-looking - in short, it immediately transforms one into a fashionista. It just proves that some things look better when they've been tried on. ;)

Get this beauty for $1,290 via eLuxury .

Note: For those residing in Malaysia, Fendi stuff is cheaper in Malaysia than in the US now. This bag retails at RM4000++ at Fendi Suria KLCC and Star HIll.

New Limited Edition LV Speedy

Louis Vuitton Monogram Roses Speedy 30


Check out the new limited edition speedy inspired by the late American artist Stephen Spourse - who also colloborated with Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton to create the Monogram Graffiti.

The new Monogram Roses (as the name suggests) is a flourescent rose pattern screen printed onto the canvas through 15 frames to create an essence of Sprouse's style of brush painting on the canvas Speedy 30. The trim is made of natural cowhide and comes with round leather handles with link attachments and golden brass hardware. As with other Speedy bags, the new Monogram Roses Speedy 30 has a zip top closure with padlock and pink striped textile lining with an interior flat pocket.

Definitely something out of the extraordinary but it kinda reminds me of the Gucci tattoo that appears on most of their new collection, don't you think? Anyway, I'm not a person for roses so that's one thing off my Wish List.

FYI, the Monogram Roses Speedy 30 is available via eLuxury for a price of $1,310.00

Cute New Gucci Tote!

Gucci's New Cruise Collection sports a Pug on one of their bags!

This medium 'Guccioli' tote with signature beige/brown monogram with off-white patent leather trims comes with a detachable heart tag charm with leather bow detail. Cut-outs of signature monogram canvas, coated monogram canvas, metallic gold and black leather are stitched together to create a pug on the bag. Gold gucci logo stamped charm hangs from the dog's collar.

Bagaholic Babe never used to be a Gucci fan, but with the dogs on the bags, I'm starting to like these designs! We saw first saw a dog on Gucci bags -  chihuahua in a Santa suit, complete with a Santa hat (Limited Edition) from the Christmas collection - and now a Pug from their Cruise 2009 Collection. Will Gucci start a whole collection of doggie bags? If so, I'm definitely a fan!

Like it? Purchase this bag via  Gucci for $730.

PS: For those residing in Malaysia, Gucci brought in the Limited Edition Chihuahua from the Christmas collection, only 2 pieces are available - one at Pavilion and one at StarHill Gallery. Bagaholic Babe got the one from Pavilion so, if you're really keen, get the only piece left at StarHill Gallery.

Presenting: Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection 2009

Presenting: Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection 2009







Scuba GM $2580



Scuba MM - $1940


Scuba clutch - $725

Created by Marc Jacobs, the Scuba GM, MM and Clutch above is made of signature LV monogram embossed on Neoprene (that's the material used for making wetsuits for diving), therefore earning the name as 'Scuba'. The shape of the Large Scuba (GM) can be changed by unfastening the dock clip and tucking out the sides. When expanded, it will look like the Medium Scuba (MM) . All bags from the Scuba range come in 2 bright colours, neon pink and flourescent orange. Both the Large and Medium sizes may be either toted in your arm (though imho it's a tad toooo big for that) or on the shoulder. The Scuba Clutch on the other hand, also doubles as a wristlet. All you have to do is strap on the wrist strap and voila, you're good to go!

The Verdict: It's been awhile since Bagaholic Babe saw anything from Vuitton that she likes. This collection, on the other hand, she absolutely loves! And no prizes for guessing which colour I like it in.... Pink of course! Lol, though the orange and pink together (Ad campaign pic above) looks smashing! Good on ya, Marc Jacobs! I applaud these designs. I know that the designs aren't exactly new and neither are the shapes, but it's definitely novel in terms of the use and choice of material! Kudos!

To view the entire Cruise collection, head on over to Louis Vuitton or enquire at your nearest Vuitton store.

All images from LV Official site

Presenting: Louis Vuitton S/S' 09 Collection

Presenting: Louis Vuitton's S/S '09 Collection

This coming Spring-Summer, we see lots of metallics, iridescent fabrics, embossed monograms and African-esque detailing from the House of Vuitton.

The Verdict:  The handbag shape of the season for Vuitton seems to be the Hobo and the oversized clutch. We also see the denim range taking on a new multicoloured monogram created by coloured threads that are embroidered on the monogram. Perhaps LV is adding a new multicolour denim line to their ever-expanding collections? Hmm...

Lots of iridescent fabrics in metallic shades are used with the monogram - the monogram is often iridescent too! The African-esque vibe is obvious in the bead and tassle detailing on ALL the bags. The animal print, too adds to this African tribal feel.

Bagaholic Babe isn't really a fan of this collection, though she likes the interesting colour combination of colours on the oversized clutches with embroidered monogram embossed.

Comme des Garcons - Louis Vuitton Handbag Collaboration

Press release from Louis Vuitton:

A beguiling and individual vision of luxury will take shape when Louis Vuitton opens an impermanent store inside Comme des Garçons in Tokyo on 4th September 2008.

The idea for the project emerged from the memories of Comme des Garçons founder Rei Kawakubo. In 1978, as a young designer, she saw the first Louis Vuitton store to open in Japan and was fascinated by the image of French craftsmanship and art de vivre it projected – a luxury that seemed to her, at the time, unattainable. Three decades on, Rei Kawakubo wanted to revisit her impressions, and so the association between Comme des Garçons and Louis Vuitton was born. Intriguingly, Louis Vuitton is celebrating this year its 30th anniversary in Japan.

Rei Kawakubo has dedicated and re-designed the entire Comme des Garçons store on Kottodori, Omotesando especially for Louis Vuitton for the duration of the project, from 4th September through mid-December, into a space that will be a celebration of the Louis Vuitton Monogram. The fruit of this unprecedented collaboration – an exclusive collection of six one-off bags – will be presented in a minimalist space, at the centre of which will be a display of historic Louis Vuitton trunks. Inspired by her memories, Rei Kawakubo chose the legendary Monogram canvas to create two Party bags, small evening purses with outsized natural leather handles. The designer also customized two classic Louis Vuitton bags, endowing the Papillon with kawaii animal charms and the Mini HL with multiple slender handles. Lastly, Louis Vuitton is reediting two iconic designs from the 1970s – the Petit Marceau and the Sac 2 Poches – which Rei Kawakubo is likely to have seen in the windows of that first Louis Vuitton store.

[Mini HL w/multiple slender handles]


The bags will only be available upon order, which is only to be placed at the “Louis Vuitton at Comme des Garçons store”. No telephone or Internet orders will be taken. In return, customers will receive a certificate inside a special card holder in Louis Vuitton's traditional natural leather, embossed with the Louis Vuitton at Comme des Garçons signature. Only several months later will their bag be delivered to their chosen Louis Vuitton store. Other iconic Louis Vuitton Monogram bags, such as the Speedy and Alma chosen by Rei Kawakubo, will also be on display and available for immediate sale inside this special “Louis Vuitton at Comme des Garçons” store.

Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton Artistic Director, who has long been an admirer of Comme des Garçons, comments: "It is impossible to overstate Rei Kawakubo's influence on modern fashion. I find it wonderful to think that, thirty years ago, this immense talent, someone who has inspired so many others, was inspired by Louis Vuitton, and now that inspiration has now been realized."

Yves Carcelle, Chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton, says: "This project not only brings a new meaning to luxury, but also speaks volumes about how the know-how and heritage of Louis Vuitton have always been perceived in Japan, including by its foremost designers. We are very proud to have been able to help Rei Kawakubo relive her memories in such an original and creative way."

Rei Kawakubo, President of Comme des Garçons, says: "These are party bags to celebrate the 30 years of Louis Vuitton in Japan. In designing them, I have kept Louis Vuitton's traditional concept as it is, but sometimes two handles become one, sometimes two handles become eight... It has been a remarkably exciting opportunity for me to have been able to participate in Louis Vuitton's traditional design and heritage."

Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton

New Louis Vuitton Monogramouflage Collection

Presenting: Vuitton's Limited Edition Monogramouflage Collection by Takashi Murakami

Here's yet another collaboration with Marc Jacobs with the House of Vuitton and Japanese pop artist, Takashi Murakami. The new addition to the ever-growing range of Vuitton monogram bags, this Monogramouflage collection was specially created for the Murakami Exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum in New York. Launched at this very exhibition on June 1st, it is now available online and at select Louis Vuitton boutiques worldwide.


As you can probably tell from the name of the collection itself, the Monogramouflage is a combination of Vuitton's signature monogram and army-esque camouflage design. This is probably one of the bigger Murakami Limited Editions out there. This Monogramouflage Collection consists of an accessories line, a travel line and a handbags line. Actually, when you look at the photos below, you'd notice that this collection is mainly for travel.

The Travel Bags


Pegase 60


Speedy 35 (there's also the Keepall 55 which is a hugggeee version of this speedy)


Passport Cover

The Bags and an accessory


Jasmine


Lys


Treillis


iPhone Case


The Verdict: Well my dear Bagaddicts. I don't know about you ladies out there, but Bagaholic Babe doesn't really like this Limited Edition collection. I've always fancied those cutesy Murakami cartoonesque and cutesy designs like the Panda, the Cherry, the Sakura and the Mushroom, but this one is too rugged for my liking. And I'm not a camo fan, so needless to say, this really ain't my thing.

Splurge of the Week!

Louis Vuitton Limited Edition Jamais Bag in Ostrich Leather


Check out the splurge for this week - a limited edition LV Jamais in monogram watercolor.

A double handled tote in ostrich leather, the top comes with a flap that is secured with the LV padlock. A bag that's like no other, you'll find it's functional yet stylish. The artist, Richard Prince, specifically came up with the design to concide with his first major U.K. solo exhibition that'll take place this summer at the Serpentine Gallery in London. Not to mention, these limited bags are sold for a good cause. Part of the proceeds from its current retail value of 9,000 pounds, or about $17,800 at current exchange goes to the Serpentine.

To find out more, log on to The Fashion Row for more info. Click here to find out more.

The New Gucci Babouska Bag

Introducing the new Gucci Babouska line - inspired by the Russian Babooshka doll (also known as the stacking doll) or in this instance, more precisely, the Dedoushka doll - a male stacking doll with moustache. If you already know what I'm talking about, you'll see the similarity in the tassels that appear on each and every bag. Doesn't it look like moustache to you? What about the studs? Don't they resemble the Dedouska doll?

This post features three designs from the Babouska line. All three have the signature heart-shaped Gucci crest charms, detachable shoulder straps, snap and push-lock closures and inside zip and cell phone pockets on it except for the style of each one - which is unique to itself.

First up..

Gucci Large Babouska Hobo $2,495.00

A soft leather style accented with matching suede trim, fringe detail and stud accents, antique brass hardware and a single top strap..

Next..

Gucci Large Babouska Hobo $2,295.00

A hobo in the same style but this time, with the ever-so-famous GG print fabric that comes accented with leather trimming and a suede fringe. You'll also find stud details, brass hardware and like the one before, a single top strap.

Last but not least..

Gucci Medium Babouska Heart Bag $2,495.00

A medium sized Babouska bag in the shape of a heart! Comes with fringe and stud accents, antique brass hardware and double handles..


Am really liking the large Hobo with the signature GG print. Absolutely love the tassels. Love the GG print as well. And most importantly, the black tassels goes really well with the color and print of the bag and you'll never miss a moustache on THAT one!

Check these out and the rest of the Babouska line via Saks Fifth Avenue or visit Gucci today..

New Louis Vuitton Tahitienne Bag

LV Tahitienne in Green and Teal Monogram


LV Tahitienne in Beige and Taupe Monogram


LV Tahitienne in Pink and Grey Monogram


LV Tahitienne in Lilac and Lavender Monogram

Inspired by the cover of a catalogue in 1924, this new 'Tahitienne' Range comes in 3 sizes, Small, Medium and Large. This day bag is convertible in shape, thanks to the hook closure. Seen above is how it looks when 'hooked' up. If you want to do without the hooked look, just snap the hook open and you have a rectangular boat-shaped sort of look. Similar to the stain-treated canvas used on Louis Vuitton's 'Antigua' range of bags, this 'painted' oversized monogrammed look gives the bag an artsy feel to it. I've personally seen the bag and felt its texture, and let's just say the pictures above don't do the bag justice -- it's much prettier when you actually tote it on your shoulder! Available in 4 colours (as shown above) - Green with Teal, Lilac with Lavender, Pink with Grey and Beige with Taupe; the small retails for $1,040 (or RM3900), the Large for $1200 (or RM4000++). As for the medium size, I'm not sure of the price. Bagaholic Babe loves the one in Pink, much sweeter! But if you really want a colour that stands out, then the one in Lilac is sure to do that. Beige is more understated whilst the Green is well, erm.. let's just say it's not Bagaholic Babe's cuppa tea.

Splurge of the Week!

Louis Vuitton Runway Monogram Motard Beforedark


An early arrival from their latest fall collection is Louis Vuitton's Monogram Motard line - being completely reinterpreted for the Spring/Summer 2008 collection through Marc Jacob's collaboration with American artist, Richard Prince - known for his inspirations by popular culture.

The unique Motard texture is really one of a kind. The glossy monogram vernis trim that complements this velvet-touch suede in their Motard Beforedark piece is Prince's way of making a strong evening statement. This Splurge of the week comes with polished gold metal hardware and oversized golden trim eyelet handles with interior logo engraving and opens up with the top folds for clutch carry. How versatile!

For a price of $2,940.00, you can now be one of the first few to own it via eLuxury

Gucci F/W '08

Seen in Milan this coming season is Gucci's Fall/Winter collection with a different twist. We're seeing a more 'rock chick' look this coming season - as Style.com puts it - Friday Giannini is 'staging a raid on the Russian/Cossack/folklore department of the hippie wardrobe-the kind of printy, shaggy, peasanty things London groupies picked up at Portobello market in the early seventies, but scrubbed up to match today's luxury values, of course.' Definitely nowhere near what they used to make.




Take for example the new "Babushka" carpet bags, they're definitely exceptional pieces - not forgetting the detailed handwork in the flying leather fringes on the hobo shoulder bags..



And the signature monogram coated canvas which is a hit right now. Some appear to have leather fringes hanging from their signature pieces, lots of studded details as well as heart-shaped ornaments which completes the look.




Looking unusually different this Fall/Winter is their evening collection - studded metal clutches with chains as a shoulder strap (really reminds me of what you'd find in the 'Cleopatra' days).



And that completes the review of next season's Gucci - with Style.com ranking the collection as one of Giannini's most confident so far. Definitely for those with an acquired taste.