Women's Impression Towards Handbags

By: Janet R.

LuxuryVintage.com: Gucci & YSL Handbags Collection - eFashionHouse.com

Admit this, we women love to display our something new, especially if it was made very stylish by a popular designer, and was purchased with a good deal. Most likely, we love to compete between other women and nothing is more alluring than walking on the street carrying a new stylish handbag, especially that handbag was made by a well-known designer.

Actually, there is no problem when finding different variety of designer handbags, however, they often come in with expensive prices. But because they are the most latest in fashion today, most women can't help it but to adore bragging them, especially if they match with a new pair of shoes or new dress, so that other women can see and admire it, or even more envy them.

Obviously, this is not a surprise that women and handbags have a special inclination and have made a well-known story about happiness and satisfaction. Handbags can make most women happy for satisfying their need to carry all the stuff they should have in one single piece of accessory. In addition, a good choice of handbag makes them look good, thus help women feel self-satisfied. If the design belongs to the the designer's latest creation, then that is perfect.

Eventually in the end, it doesn't matter if the purse is small or big, if all things fits into it, and it doesn't matter if it's come in inexpensive price as long as we are talking about popular branded handbags. Handbags have been one of the most favorite and were categorized under our major necessity. They have a multiple purposes, from pens, notebooks, wallets and mobile phones to anything that a human mind can imagine placing in a handbag. In addition to all this is the possibility to brag with new designer handbag.

Many women may feel glorified whenever other's eyes fixing them constantly because of that alluring thing they carry under their arm or on their shoulder. With this alluring thing, you have been provided with a special feeling, thus boosting your self-confidence, as well as your personality as a whole when friends come and praise your new accessory. Obviously, you will love this. Further more, you will love them even more for you can change your handbag each day and match it to a certain wardrobe. Nothing can make it more exceptional about fashion taste and refinement than having a great of handbag. However, glamorous or not, handbag is an accessory that is most likely going to stand for a lot of women's appearance awareness. Meaning, a perfect choice accessory is a statement for a woman's good taste when it comes to fashion.

Most men would love to choose the alluring appeal of handbags to win a woman's heart. Handbags are one of the most popular gifts for women, and when properly chosen, they can really make any woman happy. As far as the latest trend is concern, the assortment of handbags today are of different variety and prices. If you can't afford to buy a designer handbag, you may likely go with personalized purse such as monogrammed tote bags, embroidered evening bags and the likes. Even sports bags, diaper bags and personalized cosmetic cases are also available with a personal touch. If you want to give a remarkable gift for a special woman in you life, not only expensive designer handbags but also affordable personalized purses are your perfect option.

Source Taken: goarticles.com

Leather Handbags Are an Absolute Perfect Gift For Women

By: Janet

Valuebags.com: Perfect Designer Handbags Collection at eFashionHouse.com

Women are known to have a certain kind of obsession with different kinds of accessories, including handbags. Perhaps, no woman will deny the fact that there is an absolute pleasure owning even only one leather handbag or leather briefcase. In fact, she would often enjoy envious glances of other people while carrying her fancy leather handbag. Leather handbags can make any women lucrative, which often makes them act foolishly and forget about anything else!

The state of pleasure and enjoyment is even much greater if the leather handbag was given as a gift. Giving a gift such as a leather handbag to a woman will no longer give her any feeling of guilt about spending hundreds of dollars just to have that fashionable leather accessory she had laid her eyes on for such a long time.

This has been the major reason why leather handbags are a perfect gift idea for women. If you are one of those who opt to find a perfect gift for a special woman in your life and perhaps you are having some trouble on deciding what specific gift to give, a leather handbag is all you need. Search leather handbags using the Internet. Different online stores are offering many types of handbags to choose from, so there is definitely no chance of failure. However, before you will decide to buy a leather handbag, make sure to carefully check first the item. Remember, this is no longer a surprise that there many stores are now offering low-quality leather made products. The leather can have various thickness and textures with or without an extra finish and softness. Leather handbags are not often come in different colors and finishes, such as chocolate brown, dark and light shades of tan, black, green and more recently, even colors like red, yellow or blue are among that are considered to be the latest in fashion.

Aside from the physical appearance of the leather handbags that most women gets lucrative of, we can't deny the fact that these type of accessories are also known to always last if they are being cared properly. There are several ways on how to properly care leather handbags. Any owner of a stingray leather handbag, for instance, will be able to tell you different things about the attention to cleaning they must pay to these accessories. One suitable idea for doing it is by using a soft leather cleaner. Avoid carrying things in your stingray leather handbag, unless you are sure that they cannot damage it.

This is the only chance you have in order to keep the interior part of your stingray leather handbag clean. You may consider doing the same thing with your other similar type of leather.

Generally, a majority of leather accessories such as handbags and purses are individually designed and delicately handcrafted. As a result, leather handbags are also known as pieces of art which can reflect many different styles. Today, there are leather handbags that are customizable. Many of such are available online, as well as other types of customized handbags. From cute customized purses, customized tote bags, customized sports bags to customized diaper bags.

Source Taken: goarticles.com

Authentic Designer Handbags - a Great Gift

By: Ashley Hayek

Valuebags.com: Choose varieties of Authentic Handbags & Purses – eFashionHouse.com

With so many choices on the market, how do you choose the right authentic designer handbags of faith that fits your needs? Not only do you have to choose a handbag designer who is a stunning and which corresponds to your method of collection, but it should match your body type and among other things.

Do not go after updating fashion craze when selecting authentic designer handbags and instead look for something that will be well with you when to use and convenient way. Handbags are not supposed to take your property?

Most women make the mistake of buying a handbag which is greater than their body size or vice versa, which could have an adverse effect on their overall prospects when they go to show that new purchase.

If you're not a person up, you should choose a bottle-shaped purse or a backpack which is not very large. However, if you have a model similar to the figure, large and thin, you should go for round or square-shaped handbags.

Choose the specific color of your Authentic Designer Handbags is also important. If you need a handbag that can adjust most of your robes, you must select a style colored handbag. Do keep in mind for the color corresponds well with dresses that you have.


Most women tend to be more reasonable and go for a simple handbag color that will match easily with all that you have in the wardrobe. This prevents you from having a headache when you need to go on an outing with a matching handbag.

Do not neglect your budget. Some May opt for the same replica designer handbags, but is this really what you want to blow your money?

It may look the same and have the same appeal at a discounted price to boot, but you'll certainly feel awkward when you walk beside a friend who owns authentic designer handbags.

Not all handbags authentic designer must be very costly if. There are many suppliers to sell them at wholesale prices if you can find them. Do not forget to select affordable authentic designer handbags for your needs.

Source Taken: articlesbase.com

Juicy Couture Handbags: Swiftly Risen In Popularity

By Sheila Nelson

The Juicy Couture Collection in new trendy colors

At the forefront of fashion trends and innovation, Juicy Couture handbags are sleek, modern, and flirty. With a wide range of styles to appeal to any trendy shopper, Juicy handbags have gained equal adoration as with other signature handbags. Juicy Couture handbags have swiftly risen in popularity since they were introduced in 2004.

Juicy Couture handbags are high-quality accessories, and different bags offer consumers a range of features. You’ll find Juicy Couture handbags in sherbet-flavored colors such as green, rosy pink, light blue, mint, flamingo, and frosted pink. Juicy design their handbags with pockets for your cell phone, keys, wallet, and makeup, and they also include a heart shaped mirror for you to touch up yourself lipstick whenever you need to. Though each design is unique, Juicy Couture handbags are always adorned with a heart-shaped leather tag bearing an embossed ‘J’ that dangles along the lush skin.

In addition to elaborate features that make each bag distinctive, Juicy Couture handbags are also known for their high-quality materials and bold fabrics. Juicy handbags are usually finished in materials like their signature terry cloth, leather, and canvas. Other features of Juicy handbags include big bold buckles, and gold, brass, or silver hardware and it doesn’t stop there; they also bear metal studs with various bold statement engravings. Boldness is everything to Juicy Couture.

Juicy Couture's achievement in the fashion industry has been partly due to their relationship with the Hollywood sect. Juicy made a wise move when they invited top celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, and Madonna to shop for free Juicy Couture designs. It also helps that Juicy Couture was recently named the 8th most influential design house in the world by The Face magazine.

Juicy Couture reflects a modern attitude and style, and somehow evokes a playful freedom with its bold decor and cladding. Juicy handbags simply unleashed a silent exuberance that is in all of us. Juicy makes handbags that women who are 30 something and older can get away with because they are so versatile. No matter what your handbag needs, Juicy Couture has a style to not only serve practical functions but one that will add flair to your fashion as well.

Juicy Couture handbags can be found at most department stores in USA such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom’s, and Bergdorf Goodman. Juicy handbags can also be found in stores in Asia, Canada, and Europe. The majority of Juicy purses and handbags cost range is between $200-500.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

She's Graduating to an Authentic Designer Handbag!

You'll certainly be a hit at her graduation party. Give her a keepsake she'll cherish for many years to come. Why? Because she really wants a new designer handbag. Whether she's into Yoga or an obvious Fashionista, decide the award your girly grad deserves and say "congrats" with an authentic designer handbag for the Class of 2008. You know she really wants a designer purse this year! And, she's all grown up and wants something special.

Shopping Online SAVES YOU MONEY! No travel time or gas to buy! Shop from the comfort of home 24/7!

All the girls are carrying a new purse to their new job. Your little graduate dreams about a new designer handbag. There are many styles and designs to select in price ranges from under $100 to more than $500. It's up to you. Whatever you pick will be a hit. Some of our favorites are Tano bags, Melie Bianco handbags, Elaine Turner handbags, Pietro Alessandro handbags, Gucci Bags, Prada bags, Fendi bags and many more. And, they are all on Sale! See the coupon codes below and start saving on your graduation gifts for that special gal in your life.

Shop the Sale Section. Take an extra 10% off!

Use Coupon OFF10 at
http://www.efashionhouse.com/productlist_saleefh.html/sale/4

Shop Final Clearance. Deep discounts. Plus get an extra 20% off!

Use Coupon OFF20 at
http://www.efashionhouse.com/productlist_saleefh.html/clearance/4

PLUS...Free Shipping $200 Orders & NO Sales TAX Worlwide!

----------

Graduation is here! She wants a REAL Designer Handbag! Have fun shopping! Here's a series of Graduation Tid-Bits we found amusing and thought you might, too!

Bad Graduation Gift Ideas
by Andy

A Briefcase: Oh, thanks Uncle Frank. You getting me this briefcase ensures that I’m supposed to work the same 9-5 office job that you've worked for that last 25 years while complaining about it and cheating on my wife with my secretary. (Sorry Aunt Jane)

“Planet Earth” on DVD: Am I that hard to shop for? How long did it take you to pick this out at Wal-Mart? Do you think that all I do is get high and watch the Discovery Channel? Well guess what, I DO!

“Planet Earth” on VHS: What? There’s like 20 tapes. Get out of my sight Grandma.

Money: What am I supposed to do with this? It's only four dollars.

----------

All Sorts of Graduation Ideas
from My Expression

Graduation Party Ideas
The Traditions of Graduation Party -Traditions are the lifeblood of every college. Traditions connect the students to the past of the college while at the same time preparing them for the future. From the historic to the contemporary, traditions can express a spirit of unity and create a sense of community while providing for loads of fun.

Graduation Planning Checklist - Its Graduation time! You’re planning on hosting a graduation party and you want it to be unique and exciting. Planning any party can be overwhelming and many things can go wrong. So, to be on the safer side, you need to come up with a graduation planning checklist to keep things from bouncing out of control.

The Do’s and Don’ts in the Graduation Party - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and what better excuse to throw a party! Spring is that time of the year for graduation invitations, announcements and gifts. Etiquettes and manners form a very important part of our being social animals.

What To Wear on Your Graduation Day - For 12 (in some cases more) seemingly never-ending years, you obediently went through the schoolyard quarrels, your first boy-girl party, your first date, the Prom, and now finally what you’ve always been waiting for – your Graduation day! This time you’re going to be wearing an outfit that your parents will finally approve of – a gown and a cap ...

Decorating your Graduation Party - So, its graduation day and you’re all set to host a special theme party. Yes, theme parties are fun and a whole lot easier to decorate! Half the fun of hosting a graduation party is decorating the party. You can decorate your room, your lawn, you table, and even your guests! You can turn graduation caps upside down and fill them with balloons or flowers ...

Graduation Speeches Etiquette - The graduation ceremony confirms each student’s quest for knowledge. Traditionally, the ceremony will include a graduation speech that seeks to put each and every students hard work (in some cases, not so hard work) into the perspective of their future. Yes, most of us have heard one or more graduation speeches either as spectators or as graduates ourselves ...

Graduation Gift Ideas - The date is fixed, and the invitations and announcements have already been given out. So, the day has finally come for you students to cry and to cheer and to leave your school or college halls forever. Yes, graduation day is indeed one of the biggest days in everyone’s life. After years and years of hard work, your efforts have finally paid off. You’re happy but ...

Chance to Promote Your Business with Graduation Open House Invitations - Do you plan to host a graduation open house for yourself or one of your children? It may not seem like it could work, but you can actually promote your business when you have an open house. You can start the promotion with something as simple as mention that the open house is being hosted by your business. This will definitely ...

Graduation Announcement Tips, Wording, and Special Poems
Graduation Announcement Wording Tips - Graduation is an important time in life, and should be announced properly. Stationary with crayons and graduation caps on it is an appropriate means of announcing a child graduating from kindergarten. A photo announcement is a nice keepsake for loved ones who are being invited to the graduation ...

Graduation Announcements Wording Ideas - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and you’re busier than ever! Your last year of college is filled with thousands of events and activities that you have never even tried to attempt during your college years. From sending out resumes and applications to asking for letter of recommendation, you have loads ...

Do it yourself Graduation Announcements - A great substitute to printed graduation announcements are announcements that you print by yourself on your personal computer. Not only are these ‘Do-it-yourself’ graduation announcements a lot more economical, but they can also be equally colorful and creative. Start of by using plain white card stock or even plain white paper ...

Sending Graduation Announcements - So, its graduation day and its time to let everyone know that you are a proud graduate. Now that all those seemingly endless years of toil and hard work have finally paid off, it’s finally time to celebrate. First things first, start by sending out graduation invitations and announcements to all your near and dear ones. Most colleges and high schools ...

Graduation Invitations in General and the Etiquette
Graduation Party Invitations - Planning the Party - Everyone who has played a role in the life of the graduate should be sent an invitation to the graduation party. It is understood by most that tickets to commencement are limited, however an open house allows for everyone to congratulate the graduate. - Invitations - You can choose informal themes, such as a backyard ...

Graduation Invitations Etiquette - There is a very good reason why people call graduation ceremonies ‘commencement ceremonies’. This is because graduation does not mark the end; it marks the beginning. Graduation is the achievement of all goals, and rewarding the graduate for his or her hard work is a must. Graduation time is the time to invite friends and family together for an exclusive ...

Choosing Graduation Invitations Theme - Whether for you or a friend, Graduation day is one of the most joyous and welcomed occasions in any student’s life. It marks the end of your educational journey that can sometimes seem to be an endless and intolerable journey. Graduation is a once in a lifetime event, so give this event the honor and prestige that it truly deserves. The very first ...

The Traditions of Graduation Cap & Black Color in Your Invitations - When it comes to graduation invitations or stationary there are some traditions that are still observed by most people. In the majority of samples that you look at while shopping you will find that there are graduation caps in the majority of them. This is simply an obvious choice of décor since it is an invitation for a graduation ...

Graduation Invitations Theme
Casual Graduation Party Ideas - If you want to throw a wonderful party for that special high school or college graduate in your life, don’t assume you have to spend a fortune and put together some very elegant get together. After all, your graduate has already worked very hard to achieve this accomplishment and now just needs some time to relax and unwind. That’s why sometimes a more casual ...

Throwing a Cocktail Theme Graduation Party - Graduating from college is a major accomplishment and is definitely one of the best reasons to have a celebration. However, too many graduation parties are all the same. If you want to throw an amazing party, then you’ll want to take a creative approach with your graduation celebration. One idea is to celebrate with a cocktail theme ...

Throwing a Party for Valedictorians and Summa Cum Laude Graduates - Graduating from high school or college is a huge achievement, but if your student is graduating with honors then that achievement is even more deserving of a special celebration. No ordinary graduation is going to be sufficient. Background on Graduation Honors - If you’re not familiar with all of the “honors” terminology, then ...

Black, Red, and Green for Graduation Invitations - Graduations are one of those major milestones in life that deserve not only to be recognized but also to be celebrated. Whether the student in your life has just earned a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or an even higher degree, you’ll want to find a way to show him or her just how proud you are of their hard work ...
Ideas for a Formal Graduation Party - When we think of graduation parties, sometimes we have the impression that all of them are just full of young people drinking too much and playing loud music. And sure some graduation parties would fit that description pretty well, but that isn’t your only option if you’re planning a celebration for a special student in your life ...

Feng Shui Graduation Party Ideas - Celebrating a graduation is a big deal. The family wants to show their pride at how well their student has succeeded. The student wants to know that he or she has done a good job by achieving this important life goal. When you’re planning something this special, then it only makes sense that you should take into consideration every possible way of ...

Creating Tassel as Embellishments For Your Invitations - If you want to create a graduation invitation that is sure to get the attention of those you invite you can do a lot of it yourself. It can be fun to add your own personal touch to it, even if you order the actual stationary and then create a tassel as an embellishment. Everyone associates a tassel with graduation, so this can be a fun addition! If you ...

Clip-Arts for Graduation Invitations - Do you want to add some fun and uniqueness to your graduation invitation but you aren’t sure what may or may not be appropriate? If so, you aren’t alone. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of fun or original things that you can do; you simply need to infuse your own style into it and get creative. Anything that you can imagine can generally be created ...

Personalize Your Graduation Invitations with Special Inspirations - A graduation invitation can be just a graduation invite, but there are some great things that you can do to add your personal touch and make it interesting and even inspirational to those that you send them to. There is nothing better than sending out invites that have been infused with your own personal style, whatever that may be ...

Differentiating Masculine & Feminine Invitations Theme - Because both men and women graduate from high school as well as college there needs to be a way to differentiate between invitations that are more appropriate for men and those that are more appropriate for women. This is not to say that there aren’t invitations that are appropriate for both genders, but if you want something that ...

Seasonal Graduation Invitations
Show Your Patriotism with Patriotic Graduation Invitations Theme - Over the last couple years the patriotism in our country seems to have been renewed and this includes the young, the old, and everyone in between. If you are graduating from high school or college why not share your patriotism with others with a patriotic invitation theme? Why go drab when you can serve to inspire those that ...

Graduation Photo Christmas Cards - Are you graduating early? Many students that graduate early, graduate in the winter months, which is a great opportunity to do something different with your graduation invitation. You can not only send an invite to all those that you would like to attend your graduation ceremonies; you can send a Christmas greeting at the same time by enclosing a Christmas card with a photo ...

After The Graduation
Sending Graduation Thank You Cards - So, your graduation day has come and gone, the ceremonies were amazing, the graduation party was brilliant, and above all, the graduation gifts were super cool! The graduate is happy, the graduate’s guests are happy, everyone is happy. But, after the ceremony, party and gifts comes the most daunting part – sending out ...

Graduation Photo and your Scrapbooking Project - Honoring the graduate is one of the most important parts of the graduation ceremony. If you’ve organized your photo albums over the years, then everything should be up to date. But, if you are like most of us, then you’re family photos are probably piled up in boxes in the attic. Since you are going to be graduating pretty soon, now ...

Career Guide After Graduation - Transitioning out of college can be both, an exciting as well as a scary experience. There are newer and tougher challenges to face, unwritten laws to be followed, unexplored opportunities for progress – and humiliation – in every nook and cranny. While recent graduates and most other college students are preparing themselves to become experts ...

Reunion Graduate Party Planning - Once you graduate, you only get to see you friends every ten years at each reunion! So you want to have a fun reunion party this time and not a boring formal one? Planning for your reunion would mean coming up with a special plan or an idea for the party. From the decorations to the food and particularly the entertainment, your graduate reunion party ...

Logos - A Thing of the Past?

Authentic Marc Jacobs Mariah Patchwork Handbag

By David Ruiz

Designers seem to be scaling back on the ‘in your face’ logo bags. There is so much one can do to a bag besides add a handle and a zipper. Designers are stretching their creative muscles and reaching for individuality.

Of course, there are your typical big name players that will always have their logos strewn across their bags (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, etc.) in every collection. But even these brands have found triumph in removing their names and replacing them with wonderful designs, colors (metallics are popping everywhere) textures (patent leather and patchwork), and shapes. This season, translucent bags will be home to Dolce & Gabbana, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, and many more. Even patent leather will find warmth with Marc Jacobs, Valentino, and others .Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent all have coveted bags in the metallic family. Right now, It’s all about texture and quality.

Anya Hindmarch Ossie Metallic Leather Stachel

Chloe Patent Leather Messenger Bag

Valentino Bronze Metallic Folds Handbag

It does seem that many of the names above established themselves by stamping their logo everywhere possible. It was how consumers first familiarized themselves with the brand. Their logos stood out and commanded attention. However, logos could perhaps be passé (for now).

Designers know that it is no longer enough to put your logo across a bag. Now, they must push to create beautiful works of art that the consumer will love and appreciate. This is very healthy for the industry; creativity begets more creativity. Small designers now have a chance to flourish as well, because it’s no longer about the logo. It’s actually about the bag itself. Small designers can freely create well designed bags and place them in retailers as well as boutiques. They can also price their carryalls at the same level of their big name counterparts.

Logos are not going away, they are merely taking a backseat to creativity. However, this new era is a breath of fresh air. It is great to see carryalls in such forms. It gives consumers variety and it opens a realm of possibilities amongst designers- both large and small. It brings home that fashion truly is art.

_____________

Elliot Luca Isadora Woven Leather Satchel

We admit it, we are a sucker for woven leather handbags. As long as they are as pretty and luxurious as the ELLIOT LUCA Isadora woven leather satchel, we are an instant admirer. There is just something so sophisticated and classic about the rich woven leather and though this style has a lot of interpretations, Elliot Luca has a distinctive look of its own. Featuring soft Italian napa woven leather, gold tone hardware and an Elliot Luca logo charm. Elliot Luca Isadora handbag measures about 16 x 9 x inches with double straps measuring about 24 inches each with about an 11 inch drop. Shop this authentic Elliot Luca handbag at 21% off now.

__________

Forget the flowers! Mom wants a new designer handbag for Mother's Day

What mom really wants for Mother’s Day is a new designer handbag so eFashionHouse.com is making shopping for mom easy with free shipping.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB), April 24, 2008: Gone are the days where shopping for mom meant a pretty floral arrangement or a box of her favorite chocolate. Today’s moms are more interested in trendy or classic designer handbags, so eFashionHouse.com is making shopping for mom a little easier with free shipping for Mother’s Day (May 11).

Named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch for below retail priced designer handbags and recognized by About.com as the top of three online retailers of off-priced Chanel, eFashionHouse.com has all the designers and styles moms want. From handbag darling Elaine Turner, to couture legend Chanel, to American staple Coach, eFashionHouse.com offers the latest in designer handbags for all budgets.

"It’s not only fashionistas that want the latest designer handbag all the time, today’s mom is very hip and wants to carry a nice leather handbag as well" said Anna Miller, eFashionHouse Owner. "To meet the needs of our clients, we now carry handbags that are age-friendly…meaning most of the designers we carry cater to women of all ages who simply love fashion."

Not only does eFashionHouse.com, and its five fashion ecommerce stores (BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet and ValueBags), offer a wide variety of authentic designer handbags but they guarantee the lowest prices online for Tano, Melie Bianco, Murval, Elaine Turner and Pietro Alessandro. Plus the site offers a layaway plan that allows its clients to pay over time and still get the bag of their dreams.

If you still don’t know what to get mom, here’s a couple of hot selling bags that are sure to make her smile (and maybe even giggle with glee):

• COACH Hamptons Cream Large Tote – 26% off
• ELAINE TURNER Andie Platinum Distressed Leather Satchel – 24% off
• Tano Bauhaus Leather Tote – 21% off
• Gucci Brit Medium Tote in Brown – 26% off
• Yves Saint Laurent Downtown Tote in Cream – 21% off
• Vintage Chanel Quilted Lambskin Shoulder Bag – only $499

In addition to huge savings on brand new, 100% authentic designer handbags, shoppers will receive free ground shipping from April 24th thru May 2nd on purchase over $100 with coupon code MD08. Plus there is no sales tax on all purchases worldwide.

About eFashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. EFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. eFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer & Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She’s been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s. eFashionHouse.com has an extensive Press Page and a Fashion Blog Network. Visit the site for more details.

Fashion on a Budget - Designer handbags, clothing and shoes

By Woody Lee

There has been a lot of talk about the economy lately and the forecast isn't looking too good which means it's time to start looking at ways to tighten the budget and cut back on the things you don't absolutely need. Though the thought about going without might seem grim at first, there is a silver lining when it comes to shopping. Just because you have less to spend on fashion doesn't mean you have to stop trying completely, following is a list of tips that help the budget fashionista in all of us keep looking fabulous.

Clothing
I thought starting off with the most obvious wardrobe item was a good way to kick off the list especially since a lot of us have already started thinking of spring wear, plus shopping for clothing on a budget is often the easiest. Although no one likes to worry about the economy, one positive result is retailers know that consumers are holding onto their money tighter than before, so they are more willing to hold sales and make higher decreases to entice consumers to spend. Here's a great way to take advantage of dropping prices but still come out with the stuff you want:

Be a savvy sale shopper: I already mentioned how you might notice more sales and promotions from retailers in an effort to boast slow profits, so as a savvy shopper it pays off to know when your favorite store is holding a 'secret sale' (join a mailing list or befriend the sales staff to become a VIP), end-of-season sales (household names like Banana Republic and Macys hold seasonal sales where items are 40% off), watch for the buy-one-get-one-half off type of coupon sales because you can buy the non-sale item you've been eyeing and get another item half off.

Shop online: Even the most experienced shopper can find it daunting to keep up with the sale schedule at their favorite stores which is why shopping online has become so popular. Gone were the days where you weren't sure of your size or if something looked good, most online shops allow for easy returns. But it's better to know the types of clothes you look good so you won't have to mail back a bunch of returns. The best part about shopping online is that often times you can find the same brands at cheaper prices because an online retailer doesn't have to pay for retail space. If you don't believe me, I found Rachel Pally dresses at 50% off at DesignersLA.com or check out ShopBop and click on the 70% off sale section (you'll be amazed at what you see). Plus if you sign up for your favorite e-tailers email list, you'll get even more savings with sale announcements and coupon codes sent right to your inbox. What's easier than that?

Invest in classics: Though sale shopping can result in a ton of savings, to really save money try not to buy something you won't end up wearing just because it is on sale. Sure a designer label pink suede skirt at 80% off is a great deal but if it's hot outside or pink suede isn't in style when the weather cools, you've wasted money that could have been used toward something you'll wear again and again. Trends are always fun but invest in a couple of classics that can take you through an entire season. I'm thinking white wide-leg pants and a yellow dress but you can pick your favorite spring staples.

Vintage: If the thought of secondhand shops scares you than you haven't been shopping at the right vintage store. Vintage can be ultra-hip and you'll be surprised to see what you find in the right vintage store. Make sure to find one that offers items in good condition and reasonable prices (some are actually expensive) and go hunting for shift dresses, capris and 50's style blouses that have been seen in all the fashion magazines. Plus there are even some great online vintage shops (JillsConsignment and LuxuryVintage) that carry amazing stuff in awesome condition.

Handbags and Accessories
It doesn't matter if there are tough times or not, fashionistas are constantly on the lookout for bargains on designer handbags. The good thing is that a good designer handbag has a much longer run than designer clothing because if you invest in the right designer purse or designer jewelry you can wear it for many months as opposed to changing up your clothes due to trends and weather conditions. And even though designer "it" bags cost more than ever, the average designer label handbag costs $2k, I've done my homework and found ways to score a hot designer bag, designer jewelry or accessory from Prada, Gucci, Tod's, Chloe, Anya Hindmarch, Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Burberry, and even Chanel at up to 70% off retail. Don't believe me, see for yourself:

Shop online: As with shopping for clothing, shopping online for designer accessories can really pay off. Unlike clothes, you don't have to worry about how an item will fit because most reputable sites will list the exact measurements and provides photos from all angles so you can see exactly what you're getting. Since online retailers don't have as much overhead as say a big department store (it's hard to find a designer handbag in a small boutique), they are able to offer substantially more savings for the exact same purse. I recently picked up an authentic Chanel handbag at for 50% off retail at eFashionHouse.com and the selection is endless. Based on my budget (and a little bit of principal) I would never pay full price for a designer handbag because I know if I wait for the "it" bag craze to die down, I'll visit my favorite site and get the bag 40% off. You can also shop for brand new designer jewelry from Chanel, Gucci and others at more than 60% off.

Wait for end-of-season sales: All of the major department stores mark designer handbags off toward the end of the season an although it's nice to carry a bag as soon as the season starts, if you can hold out, you can find what you're looking for. But if you plan to wait for these sales, make sure you are the first to know because inventory goes fast and is usually sold out the day a sale starts (if you miss the boat, visit the discount designer handbag web sites who sell authentic bags at a discounts year round).

Out with the old, in with the new: If you are as much of a handbag lover as I am than you probably have a couple of designer handbags lying around that you haven't used in a while which means you can afford to get rid of them. If you sell these unused accessories on eBay or to a consignment shop, you can have some extra money to spend on the designer handbag you really want. Try it out, it won't hurt as much as you think.

Vintage: More than even clothes, vintage designer handbags, jewelry and accessories (wallets, scarves, etc.) can not only save you money but even outlast many of the trendier bags. Sites like LuxuryVintage sell authentic Chanel handbags in amazing condition (little to no wear) for as low as $400 and since Chanel handbags are timeless, this is a small price to pay for a bag you can wear for years to come.

Don't be a snob: In addition to the luxury leaders like Marc Jacobs and Prada, the handbag heyday has allowed for smaller labels like Elaine Turner, Tano and Pietro Alessandro to make a name for themselves. Often made from the same high end materials as couture fashion houses, it's easier than ever to score an ultra-soft trendy handbag, like the Elaine Turner Paige Python Frame Bag or the Alex Tote, for a fraction of the cost of an expensive designer label.

Cheap Chic: We usually don't like any handbags that fall into the $15-$40 range but we have to say that lines like Melie Bianco and Murval are quickly making us change our mind. We wouldn't recommend spending your money on a bunch of cheap, poorly made handbags but if you want the look of the moment handbag, than Melie Bianco will probably have it. Visit DesignersLA.com and be amazed at how Melie Bianco manages to make such stylish and gorgeous handbags at such unbelievable prices.

Shoes
There is not a lot of advice we have on shoes because we think that most savvy shoppers (who are women at least) have this category covered but we'll include a couple of pointers just in case you need a refresher:

Invest in a good pair: Shoes are quickly becoming like designer handbags in the fact that they are wildly expensive and there are now a ton of "must-have" styles. Christian Louboutin is the leader of the pack, followed closely by Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blanik but finding a pair of these beauties at a discount can be pretty tricky but not unheard of. If must have another pair of shoes (to add to the 30 you already have), than try to invest in as much shoe as you can afford. Maybe we walk a lot but we've found that investing in a good pair of shoes (leather upper and leather sole) can take us a long way.

Online: There are a ton of online sites selling only footwear and it's sometimes hard to go through them all but the one good thing about so many choices is that there is more competition which means that price points will be lower. We haven't found a ton of online sites that we like to shop at for shoes because we tend to shop for more high end brands (goes back to that investment thinking) and there aren't a lot of sites that sell expensive shoes but one place I have found luck at saving money is eBay (yes, eBay). I would never purchase a designer handbag from eBay because there is no way to guarantee that you are actually getting an authentic designer handbag but shoes are less likely to be knocked off. But be prepared to search often because the selection is limited however you can find some amazing deals (brand new Lanvin flats for $200 or Prada heels for $100). So brush up on your bidding war skills because wining a pair of Manola Blanik Mary Janes is harder than actually walking in them.

Sales: Like clothes and designer accessories, the best and easiest way to save money is to know when your favorite shoe store is having a sale, but the early bird gets the worm in shoes sales because if there is one thing women have in common its shoes.

So although a slow economy can be a huge drain on your wallet, just remember that looking good doesn't have to suffer a recession as well. Become an experienced (and smart) shopper and you'll ride out tough times with the shirt on your back.

Woody Lee is a free lance writer, blogger and fashion addict living in New York City. She loves fashion, she loves high quality designer handbags, and she absolutely dislikes paying full price.

Betsey Johnson See-Through Tote

Leave it to BETSEY JOHNSON to make something as simple as a tote bag look so sexy! Known for her eclectic and unique style, BETSEY JOHNSON is also wildly feminine as you can tell from this clear tote bag. Totally girly, this Betsey Johnson bag features a clear body with metallic pink trim and a removable black insert that is decorated with a green and red rose motif. Betsey Johnson handbag measures approximately 14 W x 9.5 H with a 4.5 inch depth. The straps measure about 22 inches long with a 9 inch drop. Shop this authentic BETSEY JOHNSON purse at 32% off now.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Marni Canvas Tote

Since it's Friday and we are already in the weekend mood, we wanted to feature a designer handbag that is both fun and practical for weekend wear and the MARNI canvas tote fits the bill perfectly. Featuring yellow, purple and black dots, this pale pink tote is the epitome of summer. Casual meets stylish with this MARNI handbag, plus handles on handbags are big for the season. Marni purse measures 12.5 inches wide X 8 inches high X 8.75 inches deep. Shop this authentic MARNI handbag at 16% off now.

________

Fab Bag of the Day - Bally White Suban Shoulder Bag

A gorgeous bag for all seasons the BALLY suban woven leather handbag is divine. Featuring soft deerskin leather, a slim shape, tassels, silver hardware and a woven front, you can't go wrong with this basic bag that is anything but boring. Is it just us or is BALLY making a comeback? BALLY handbag measures approximately 10 W x 5 H with a 1 inch depth. The strap measures about 21 inches long with a 9 inch drop. Both tassels measure about 7 inches long. Shop this authentic BALLY handbag at 59% off now.

____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Bally Sanfele Rose and Black Leather Handbag

We've been seeing a lot of two-tone handbags lately and we are definitely liking this look. Not only do you get a unique look but when you use a soft rose color with a stronger color like black, it makes for a nice contrast that will go with a lot of different outfits. This leather Bally handbag is a good example of when two colors are better than one. Featuring rose colored leather handbag with black leather trim, silver toned hardware and an adjustable strap. Bally purse measures approximately 9 W x 7 H with a 2 inch depth. Shop this authentic Bally handbag at 45% off retail now.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Bally Evening Bag

Now that our handbag collection includes a couple of day bags, we've been on the look out for the prefect evening bag for all of the parties we hope to attend in the summer or even just for a night out. When we came across this Bally evening bag (we love the blue one best) made from soft calfskin and adorned with brass hardware it was love at first sight. With the vintage look back in style, this modern-day Bally clutch nails the look. Bally purse measures approximately 6 W x 4 H with a 2 inch depth. The chain strap measures about 34 inches long. Shop this authentic Bally handbag at 39% off now.

____________

The Murakami Method

Takashi Murakami

By ARTHUR LUBOW
The New York Times

Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton & New York Times

At the Mori Arts Center, which is perched atop a skyscraper in the glittering Roppongi Hills development in Tokyo, I recently visited a museum show, ''Universal Symbol of the Brand,'' that displayed (to quote its catalog) ''the fascinating development of the history and endeavors of Louis Vuitton, the brand that is not only incredibly popular in Japan but also beloved throughout the world.'' A sequence of galleries exhibiting luggage and handbags proceeded to a large advertising photograph of the actress Uma Thurman and smaller shots of runway models, all wearing Vuitton fashions. What drew me to the show, however, were two bags in the variation of the Vuitton pattern that the Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami developed with the company in 2003. The brightly colored Murakami line has been phenomenally successful, with sales reported to be in the vicinity of $300 million. Murakami's handbags were presented along with two small paneled screens painted in the same patterns that appear on the bags.

The handbags in the museum exhibition were hardly Murakami's only contribution to the Roppongi Hills complex of glass-and-steel towers. Cute cartoonlike characters that he had created as branding elements for the center -- Barney-like brontosaurs, droopy-eared rabbits and smiling aliens -- grinned down on me from pennants and from express buses to Roppongi Hills. In the same development, at a large Vuitton store, new handbags in a cherry design by Murakami would soon be introduced, along with a couple of the artist's sculptures of a red, smiling cherry. Last year at another Vuitton shop in Tokyo, Murakami displayed a large fiberglass sculpture and a four-panel screen painted in his LV monogram design.

So, in Tokyo, an art museum was displaying luggage, a luggage shop was exhibiting art, an artist had developed a branding campaign -- and nobody thought anything out of the ordinary. If you want to understand why Murakami's art feels so dizzyingly up to date, this leveling of status grades among art, advertising and merchandise at Roppongi Hills is a good place to start. When I asked Tomio Koyama, Murakami's dealer in Tokyo, why he hadn't shown the monogram work in his gallery, he explained, ''In Japan, a gallery has no meaning, and a Louis Vuitton shop is a more powerful place to see something.'' The Tokyo art critic Noi Sawaragi, who was a crucial early supporter of Murakami and a peer, told me that I was imposing distinctions that no Japanese would make. ''This back and forth doesn't seem unnatural to us,'' he said. ''We have had a long history of museums with department stores as a venue. It was thanks to the Seibu Museum, which no longer exists on the 12th floor of the Seibu department store, that I developed my knowledge of contemporary art. I saw Marcel Duchamp, Malevich and Man Ray in depth for the first time in that museum. I think it is the same for everyone of my generation. Downstairs you find dresses, bags and shoes, but on the 12th floor you find art.'' Indeed, it is one of Murakami's dearly held tenets that demarcations between fine art and popular merchandise are completely un-Japanese. The Japanese language didn't even have a word for ''fine art'' in 1868, when Japan embraced the West in the Meiji Restoration; only afterward did the country import this foreign ''art'' notion and create a vocabulary for it. The blurring of high and low remains characteristic of Japanese society.

In his own career, Murakami has moved frictionlessly among his multiple roles as artist, curator, theorist, product designer, businessman and celebrity. Ever since a Chicago collector paid $567,500 at auction in 2003 for his fiberglass sculpture of a long-legged waitress, Murakami, now 43, has held the price record for a work by a contemporary Japanese artist. Meanwhile, his monumental sculptures and silk-screened balloons of original cartoon characters, displayed in 2001 at Grand Central Terminal and in 2003 at Rockefeller Center, have made him conspicuous in New York. More than anyone else, he has put modern Japan on the map of the contemporary art world. ''He's a phenomenon, that's for sure,'' said Lisa Phillips, director of the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York. ''I think that his work embodies some interests that extend far beyond Japan. It's a blend of fantasy and apocalypse and innocence. It's all the disparate elements combined that speak to the moment. And it's the way that he's worked as much as the work itself -- in the public realm with public sculpture, huge editions of objects, merchandising, working collaboratively. It's a very ambitious and far-ranging project.''
While best known as an artist, Murakami may be even more interesting as a thinker. Five years ago he elaborated a theory under the clever rubric ''Superflat,'' linking the flat picture planes of traditional Japanese paintings to the lack of any distinction between high and low in Japanese culture. On stylistic grounds he grouped together some traditional artists of the Edo period (1603-1868) with the creators of modern-day animated films, arguing that there were important formal similarities in the flatness of their work. Now, having analyzed Japanese pop culture aesthetically, he is turning his scrutiny to the function that superflatness might be serving in contemporary Japanese society. As the curator of an exhibition, ''Little Boy: The Arts of Japan's Exploding Subculture,'' which opens this week at the Japan Society in New York, he surveys the geeky movement, known as otaku, that revolves around animated movies (anime), comic books (manga) and sexually suggestive figure models -- and arrives at a provocative conclusion. Murakami maintains that respectable Japanese artists largely ignored the horrors of World War II and the humiliations of the postwar occupation, relinquishing the subjects to the otaku, who transported these tough realities into the realm of cartoon fantasy. In childlike animated forms, anguished truths were stripped of their historical context // a flattening process that conveniently released both the artist and the viewer from grappling with the contradictions of Japan's wartime experience as predator and victim and postwar status as economic rival of, and political subordinate to, the United States.

Flat, colorful and rootless, the images of this popular subculture - the blank-faced Hello Kitty, the mutant monster Godzilla, the giant alien Ultraman, the cat-shaped guardian robot Doraemon -- line up in no particular order, like icons on a computer screen. This cavalcade of weightless images in turn reverberates with contemporary viewers worldwide: anime and manga have become global signifiers of cool. Historically, to be sure, Japan is unique. Until a century and a half ago it was a society shut off from most of the world, and then, with gigantic gulps, it absorbed and adapted whatever it wanted, mostly from Europe, in an accelerated binge. The orgy ended with the catastrophe of World War II, after which Japan once again slammed the door on the past and started fresh with new, mostly American models. The grab-bag appropriation, inexact simulation and accelerated speed that characterize this process no longer appear peculiarly Japanese. They feel now. We live in an age when distinctions are arbitrary, originality is devalued, hierarchies are discredited and authenticity seems meaningless. Barely 40 years ago, Pop artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein caused a transgressive stir by adopting commercial imagery from newspaper advertisements and comic strips as the subjects of paintings to hang in art galleries. How daring that was, and how dated it is. We are surrounded today by too many images to source or rank. While it would be fatuous to say that we are all Japanese now, we are surely all living in Murakami's world.
At 8:50 every weekday morning, unless he is not in Tokyo, Murakami leads the staff of his art studio, Kaikai Kiki Company Ltd., in a round of calisthenics. Then the employees go off to their various jobs: refining sketches on the computer, daubing paint meticulously onto paintings and sculptures, fielding requests for commercial tie-ins or press interviews with their boss, negotiating licenses and other business contracts or coordinating with the branch office in Brooklyn. Warhol famously called his studio in Manhattan ''the Factory,'' but that was a joke; although silk-screened images of flowers and Brillo boxes did flow out of it, the silver-walled, amphetamine-pumped clubhouse -- with its entertainments, intrigues and exquisite costumes -- resembled an 18th-century court in Versailles more than it did an auto plant. Yet it's no joke to call Kaikai Kiki a factory. Murakami's 60 employees punch in with computerized timecards, and the company has training manuals for new hires. The hours are regular -- and long. One daily ritual is the question-and-answer period, in which staff members book a slot of specified duration to ask the chief a question; when I attended, 14 had requested interviews, typically of two minutes each.

The Kaikai Kiki factory complex is situated in a drab suburban district an hour from central Tokyo. One of the little buildings, without toilet or bath, is Murakami's home, in which a sleeping bag serves as a bed. Next to the shed that houses Murakami is an even smaller one that houses potted cactuses. Hybridizing cactus from seed is Murakami's hobby, one for which he has little time. Apparently he has no time for romantic or family attachments, either. ''He makes art and sleeps,'' said Dana Friis-Hansen, executive director of the Austin Museum of Art in Texas and co-curator of a 1998 Murakami exhibition at Bard College in New York. ''Some curators are really frustrated, because he'll ask for and usually get the right to sleep in the gallery while he is setting up. He'll bring assistants and sleeping bags, and they'll cook noodles there.''

The son of a taxi driver and a housewife, Murakami grew up in Tokyo, then attended Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music, the country's most prestigious arts institution. He holds a Ph.D. in nihonga -- the refined hybrid of European and traditional Japanese painting that was invented in the late 19th century. Nihonga, in which traditional resins and pigments are employed to render likenesses of bouquets and landscapes, is a rarefied branch of present-day Japanese art. All the time he was practicing it, Murakami said, he wished instead that he had the talent to draw the manga and anime of otaku culture.

The word ''otaku'' is usually translated as ''geek'' or ''nerd,'' but its more precise meaning is steeped in the particularities of Japanese society and language. Literally, the word means ''your household.'' It is a way to refer to another person in conversation without implying either superior or lesser social status. Employed by postwar Japanese housewives, the usage was adopted by the fans -- all right, call them geeks -- who became obsessed with the minutiae of a particular bit of popular culture. Isolated in their individual homes, these youths shared a passion for the television programming -- ''Astro Boy,'' ''Ultraman'' and so forth -- that expanded rapidly in the 1960's. They organized around their fetishistic fascinations to form otaku subcultures, whose members come together periodically in large conventions to discuss, exhibit and trade the objects of their highly focused affections.

The typical otaku is a young male, and some of the manga and the plastic figures are explicitly sexual, often blatantly pedophiliac; even when they aren't, the otaku tends to relate to his collection, with caresses and ministrations, as to a girlfriend -- if he had a girlfriend. (A Web-site message board heavily frequented by otaku was known as ''The number of years I have not had a girlfriend is the same as my age.'') In its defiance of the mores of proper Japanese society, otaku culture was disreputable from the outset. It became much more so following a notorious criminal case in 1989, when an otaku named Tsutomu Miyazaki was arrested for the kidnapping and murder of four preadolescent girls. ''When Miyazaki's room was revealed to the public, the mass media announced that it was otaku space,'' Murakami once told an interviewer. ''However, it was just like my room. Actually, my mother was very surprised to see his room and said: 'His room is like yours. Are you O.K.?' Of course, I was O.K. In fact, all of my friends' rooms were similar to his, too.'' Murakami added that Miyazaki was only ''different from us'' because he ''videotaped dead bodies of little girls he killed.''

When the administrators of the Japan Society in New York asked Murakami if he would like to curate an exhibition in their gallery, he resolved to undertake an exploration of the origins of otaku culture, a subject that, he said, is sketchily understood even in Japan. In many of the classic manga and anime stories, the plot revolves around a bomb or radiation device that devastates Tokyo. ''I thought, Why does otaku culture so many times have an explosion that looks like an atomic bomb?'' he told me, as we sat at the counter of an elegant sushi bar in Tokyo. ''I was trying to find out why otaku people are always repeating the same scene and why I was so interested in it myself.'' And there was a related question that intrigued him: ''Why do Japanese people hate otaku culture?'' He concluded that otaku raised ''a mirror'' to a reality that the larger culture preferred to ignore. Like many other Japanese intellectuals of his generation, he deplores both his country's militarist past and what he sees as its acquiescent present. ''Otaku culture is handicapped reality,'' Murakami said. ''We have to realize we are handicapped, and we don't want to realize it. We know the U.S. is our father. We thought we were children, but we are handicapped people. We need help.''

The crystallizing moment for Murakami arrived when he came up with a name for the show. In October, Alexandra Munroe, director of the Japan Society Gallery, was pressing him for an exhibition title and offered a suggestion. ''She gave us 'Japanese Pop Culture Explosion,' a really long title,'' he recalled. ''I hate that.'' Many Americans know that the atomic bombs that dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki were nicknamed, respectively, ''Little Boy'' and ''Fat Man.'' But few remember the testimony that Gen. Douglas MacArthur gave to a Senate committee in 1951 upon completing a tour of more than five years as Supreme Commander of the Allied powers in Japan. MacArthur stated that at the time of the war, when ''measured by the standards of modern civilization,'' the Japanese people were ''like a boy of 12.'' The remark ignited headlines across Japan, with furious resentment superseding the tributes that had hailed MacArthur's departure. For a show on otaku culture that would demonstrate how Japanese artists responded to their nation's wartime suffering and postwar subordination, Murakami realized that the title ''Little Boy'' was perfect. As he told me this story, he sugarcoated the underlying anger and bitterness, as he does so often both in his conversation and his art, with a joke. ''Little Boy and Fat Man -- now both things are true exactly of the Japanese people,'' he said, patting his potbelly and ordering an extra helping of sushi.

At the beginning of his career, Murakami appeared to be content with the lot of most successful contemporary artists: to create work that is admired by critics and desired by wealthy collectors but leaves the general public baffled or hostile. He was constructing conceptual pieces similar to the art being made in the West. Among those early works, which began attracting attention in the early 90's, was ''Polyrhythm,'' a seven-foot-high slab of yellow resin, minimalist in form, on which many toy United States infantry soldiers climb. Another colossal piece, which he titled ''Sea Breeze'' after a men's fragrance, was fabricated of steel plates that open automatically to reveal, like figures in a shrine, a ring of high-intensity floodlights. Probably his most talked-about youthful work was the 1991 ''Randoseru Project.'' For it, he collected hides of endangered or exotic species -- whale, hippopotamus, cobra and so on -- and had them brightly dyed and fabricated into the distinctive book bags, called randoseru, that Japanese schoolchildren have carried on their backs over the last century. Koyama, his Tokyo dealer, who has known Murakami since their university days, recalls that the project began with Murakami's desire to construct an object out of whale skin at a time when Japan, controversially, refused to join an international ban on commercial whaling. Someone suggested the shape of the randoseru. Behind its cuteness, the bag has bellicose overtones: it was adopted by the Japanese in the late 19th century on a Western military model. Murakami has kept an impish distance from the elaborate commentary the work inspired from critics. '''Randoseru,' my early work, got a really good reaction from the art scene,'' he told me. ''But I hate that reaction. It looks like political art, but I am just joking.''

In 1994, with a fellowship from the Manhattan-based Asian Cultural Council, Murakami came to live in New York. During that year he started to re-emphasize his Japaneseness. Upon returning home he began to create objects that looked as if they were applying for admittance to the otaku world even as he also tried to cast an unfamiliar critical spotlight on this insular subculture.

For two years, Murakami researched the concept and execution of ''Miss Ko2'' (pronounced ''ko-ko''), the sculpture that would eventually fascinate Western collectors and set a record at Christie's New York. Collaborating with the designers at Kaiyodo, the pre-eminent manufacturer of figures in Japan, he designed a high-breasted, stiletto-heeled, vapidly smiling blonde in a skimpy waitress uniform. Made of fiberglass, ''Miss Ko2'' is six feet tall, commanding attention in an art gallery but arousing anxious displeasure among otaku, who like their figures small and submissive.

Murakami provoked the otaku again in 1997 with his next figure, which he titled ''Hiropon,'' after a popular recreational drug in postwar Japan. His idea was that the erotic pretty-girl figures known as bishojo were addictive for the otaku who collected them. Once again he made his figure big (seven feet high), but this time she was anything but vapid. Inspired by a magazine cover he had seen while attending a comic-book otaku gathering, of a bare-breasted woman with a nipple shaped like a penis, he designed a nude (although, in keeping with otaku preferences, one lacking genitalia or pubic hair) who is squeezing from her gargantuan breasts and oversize nipples a stream of milk that swirls behind her like a jump rope. The following year he created a male companion piece, ''My Lonesome Cowboy,'' of a masturbating naked man whose ejaculation floats lasso-style in front of him. Both ''Hiropon'' and ''My Lonesome Cowboy'' have the big eyes and grins that are found on popular children's anime and manga characters like Astro Boy (the Japanese name is Mighty Atom) and Sailor Moon. While otaku people generally ignored the ''Cowboy'' figure, they loathed ''Hiropon.'' '''Hiropon' is like a satire, and these figures are the object of affection for otaku people,'' said Masahiko Asano, an otaku expert whom Murakami has enlisted as a consultant. ''Once Mr. Murakami asked me why his characters cannot be the object of affection. I said: 'When you see Miss Ko2, can you masturbate to her? If not, it can't be.' He said, 'No, I couldn't do that.'''

In 1999, at an otaku festival, Murakami released ''Second Mission Project Ko2,'' a three-piece sculptural installation that depicts a favorite otaku theme -- a young woman morphing into an airplane. Triumphantly, it was praised by both art critics and otaku. In hindsight, however, this work was a coda. Murakami's sculptures of sexually charged figures, difficult for viewers and expensive for fabricators, form a discrete chapter in his artistic career and his infatuation with otaku. Although this work may be the most interesting he has yet produced, he was dissatisfied. He wanted his characters to be objects of affection. He was a pop artist who longed to be popular.

If you were to draw a map of Japanese popular culture (a map like one from the Magellan era, grossly oversimplified but still useful), you might say that male-oriented otaku culture lies at one pole and that the female domain of kawaii (cuteness) is situated at the other. In the mid-90's, Murakami set sail from otaku toward kawaii. Even while he was investigating otaku model figures, he was already researching cute cartoon characters. Such characters, of course, had been a mainstay of Pop Art in the United States since the early 60's. Warhol used images of Mickey Mouse. Lichtenstein raided the funny pages. Murakami, however, did something else. He created his own characters.

His first, Mr. DOB, got his name from an abbreviation of a nonsensical phrase that alluded to many things -- a popular television entertainer, a sexual innuendo, the indigenous Ainu people and who knows what else. The phrase also translates, more or less, as ''Why? Why?'' Since this could serve as Murakami's motto, it was a good choice for a character who became his alter ego. Initially, the DOB character resembled Mickey, but over time he evolved, first turning toothy and fierce, then becoming terribly cute -- kawaii. ''In 1994, Mr. DOB had an ironic content,'' said the critic Midori Matsui. ''It became something different later on -- almost like Murakami's own house brand. He was always interested in competing with popular art on a real popular level. The things he did up to 'S.M.P. Ko2' were way too intellectual for his purpose. He wanted to become his own industry.''

With his customary devotion to research, Murakami analyzed the principles of kawaii. ''I found a system for what is a cute character,'' he said. On a whiteboard at Kaikai Kiki, he drew me a circle with the top half blank and the bottom half containing two dots for eyes and a smiling mouth. ''In the kawaii system, this scale is very important,'' he said. Over the last decade, Murakami has released numerous cute characters: among them, Mr. Pointy, smiling flowers, colorful mushrooms and the good and bad toddlers Kaikai and Kiki. Emblematic of his reorientation from confrontation to cuteness, he changed the name of his studio in 2001 from the Hiropon Factory to Kaikai Kiki. He said he hopes to expand his audience by making animated films with his characters, and he has already opened a six-person animation facility in Tokyo and leased space in Los Angeles. (He plans to include an animated film in a midcareer retrospective of his work, to be held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles in 2007.)

The apotheosis of kawaii culture is Hello Kitty, the big-eyed, beribboned, expressionless pussycat character that stokes a billion-dollar-a-year business for the Sanrio company. Created in 1974, the Kitty character took off in 1985, first in Japan and then internationally. When I asked Matsui how she accounted for Kitty's popularity, she practically shrieked in response: ''Because I think humanism is dead! Because people are weak and scared.'' In a more measured tone, she added: ''It's easy to accept Kitty because it's so dumb and expressionless. It doesn't demand that you make any reference.''

For an authoritative view, I paid a call at Sanrio on Yuko Yamaguchi, who has been the chief designer of Hello Kitty for 25 years. With long hennaed hair and wearing brown artificial-leather pants, she didn't look the least bit kawaii herself. When she discussed the enduring popularity of Kitty, she was all business. Hoping to gauge how far Murakami has gone in his quest for wide popularity, I asked her to rate Kaikai, the sweeter, rabbit-costumed half of the Kaikai Kiki toddlers, on the kawaii meter. She was troubled by Kaikai's smiling mouth. ''In most Sanrio characters, we don't express an emotion through the mouth,'' she said. ''With Kitty, you don't even see a mouth.'' She credited this mouthlessness for much of Kitty's popularity. ''When someone feels blue or depressed, they may want the character to sympathize with their feeling or to get angry with them or to offer encouragement,'' she said. ''Without a clear expression of the mouth, this is possible. It can be interpreted in different ways.''

Murakami understands the infantilism that underlies the Hello Kitty phenomenon. Like otaku culture, kawaii culture for him is an expression of Japan's postwar impotence. (In a photograph with the strapping General MacArthur, the diminutive, once divine Emperor Hirohito looked very kawaii.) However, Murakami is also designing characters that for those unacquainted with his analysis seem simply -- and irresistibly -- kawaii. It's a delicate balancing act, reaching a mass audience while maintaining a critical distance. ''I created Mr. DOB for a really serious reason, but girls would say, 'Oh, cute,''' he told me. ''Japanese don't like serious art. But if I can transform cute characters into serious art, they will love my piece.'' The early DOB's were often distorted and belligerent or combined with jagged lines and distressed surfaces that alluded to traditional Japanese painting. More recently, they seem simply cute.

The appearance of Murakami's DOB coincided with the emerging popularity of Yoshitomo Nara, the other Japanese artist of Murakami's generation who has found great favor in the West. Like Murakami, Nara was drawing cute cartoonlike figures, but more sincerely. His characters were children who might be sputtering obscenities or brandishing weapons but retained a look of adorable purity. At first it seemed that Nara, like Murakami, was offering a critique of the character culture while profiting from it. However, while it is still uncertain whether Murakami can walk this tightrope, the Nara enterprise appears to have relinquished any pretense of critical detachment. The artist himself, with his well-advertised love of punk music and a popular Web site, attracts a rock star's following. The openings of his shows are attended by flocks of admiring female fans, who are known as Nara girls. Koyama, who is Nara's dealer as well as Murakami's, said: ''People feel they can enter his painting, and they feel very close to him. Takashi's paintings have a distance, very cool. Takashi is speaking to a public in an official way. Nara is talking to the neighbors.''

At heart, Murakami is a detached observer. It was in that role that he elucidated his ''Superflat'' theory // in a 2000 catalog essay for an exhibition by that name that he curated in Japan and then took the next year to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles. The show exuberantly jumbled an extreme range of Japanese art products, from 18th-century Edo screens to erotic plastic figurines of schoolgirls, all to illustrate Murakami's argument. With great cleverness and convincing specificity, he took the well-known absence of any native division in Japan between fine art and craft and linked it to the visual characteristics of traditional Japanese artwork -- particularly the patterned surfaces and lack of spatial perspective. Both socioculturally and aesthetically, Japanese art was flat, which made it superflat. In Murakami's view, the multifocal composition of a group of roosters on an 18th-century gold-leafed screen requires a viewer's eye to dart here and there, without providing a comfortable place to rest. In the same way, there is no pecking order in Japanese tradition whereby an original outranks a well-made copy or a work of art in a gallery is more precious than a piece of merchandise in a shop. The time-honored Japanese worldview, in other words, closely resembles the postmodern one, in which sensations and images rain down incessantly and you have no choice but to take it all in as it comes.

In his artwork, Murakami has applied the ''Superflat'' theory most strictly in his recent paintings of the Vuitton monogram. On canvas panels of different sizes, with black or white backgrounds, his studio meticulously reproduces his designs for Vuitton. When the fashion designer Marc Jacobs, who, as artistic director of Vuitton, commissioned Murakami to reconceive the monogram, saw the paintings at the Marianne Boesky Gallery in New York, he was, unsurprisingly, pleased. ''Anything like that I love, when things go back and forth, chicken and egg,'' he told me. ''Does art imitate life or life imitate art?'' But some art-world people grumbled. Painting one panel in the monogram pattern could be seen as a comment on the similarity between artistic and commercial production; churning out many of them compressed the artistic and commercial to an uncomfortable degree. ''He took a few kidney punches on it,'' said Tim Blum, his Los Angeles dealer. ''The bag thing was interesting -- the show was something else. A lot of people really hated the show. Highly schooled people, who look carefully at Murakami, think, This is weird -- what's he doing? That project was the perfect endpoint for the arc of that part of his career. He became superflat.''

Murakami perceives the hostile critical response to the monogram paintings, but he trusts his own instincts. When I first met him in New York in November, he invited me to watch his inspection of nine monogram paintings at his satellite studio in a converted cinder-block garage in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. (He keeps the studio to avoid shipping fees on work for the American market.) As usual, Murakami deprecated his own technical skills. Unlike Nara, for example, he no longer applies his hand to his own work. He is a conceptual artist. Yet even though the painting is performed by studio assistants, Murakami exerts tight quality control. That day he was especially on the lookout for panels in which the paint had been applied more thickly on the background than on the motifs, a problem that had been recurring mysteriously in the Williamsburg plant. A smooth surface without visible brushstrokes is characteristic of both nihonga painting and factory production. It is also a feature of Murakami's art.

He estimated that he had made 60 or 70 monograms and would stop at about 100. He added that he had done approximately 100 DOB's and 60 mushrooms. ''Just like with Warhol soup cans or Marilyns, if there is a need in the market, I can put them out,'' he said. ''The gallerists worry that if there are too many, the value will go down and their auction prices will be low. But I don't think so. If there is a demand, I will keep making them.''

When the subject of the monogram paintings came up again in Tokyo, he elaborated on his motivations. He said the paintings allowed him to transform work for hire into his own art. As precedent, he mentioned an appropriationist piece that the American artist Jeff Koons did, in which he put his own frame on a poster of a basketball star. He also cited the ''dollar paintings'' that Warhol composed by pasting down real dollar bills. He admires the naked transparency of these artists' cashing in on their reputations to make money. ''My concept is, anytime we do the honest thing, we get the win,'' Murakami said. ''People find it very difficult to find their honest desire. Andy Warhol did that. I love his diary: pay the driver two weeks, the coffee is too sweet, the weather is cold. It's a life. Warhol is a master artist for me because he was a really honest person.''

In addition to being a factory, Kaikai Kiki, as the curator Dana Friis-Hansen said, is ''a home for wayward artists.'' Murakami surrounds himself with young people and enthusiastically promotes their careers. He looks for artists who are quirky or obsessive. Although as a theorist he subscribes to the Japanese deprecation of originality, as a curator he knows that the appearance of originality is a selling point. If Kaikai Kiki artists go on to have their own shows in the West, he takes a 10 percent commission (from the gallery's share of the sales, not the artist's). But commercial profit is a secondary motivation. ''He wants to become a schoolmaster,'' the critic Midori Matsui said. ''I think he is a very lonely person, and he needs to create his own family.'' Once Murakami tried to establish a school. ''Like a very small school, a terakoya school, in the Edo era -- one teacher with 10 students, very close,'' Murakami said. ''It sounds very sentimental. I wanted that school.'' He said that a young woman in the class developed a stalker's crush on him, forcing him to abandon his dream. In a less structured way, however, his tutelage continues.

Like most Kaikai Kiki employees, Chinatsu Ban, Murakami's secretary, studied art in college. When she met him, she was selling cellphones to earn a living while painting in her spare time. She would send him invitations to her exhibitions, and he would offer encouraging replies. Eventually he asked her to join a group show he curated of young female Japanese artists. Two years ago he offered her a position at Kaikai Kiki.

Along with several other Kaikai Kiki artists, Ban will be included in the ''Little Boy'' exhibition. She paints mostly elephants that are extremely kawaii. Tom Eccles, director of New York City's Public Art Fund, who helped organize Murakami's past installation at Rockefeller Center, was looking for a sculpture to place at the southeast entrance to Central Park in conjunction with the Japan Society show. ''Tom Eccles was really interested in a cute character,'' Murakami told me. ''So I said to Chinatsu, 'Do you want to do that?' She said, 'Sure, why not?'''

Which is how, on a February morning, Ban came to be standing alongside a nine-foot-tall elephant sculpture in a chilly fabrication facility in suburban Tokyo.

''Great,'' she said approvingly to the manager of the plant. They were both waiting for Murakami to arrive.

''What is it made of?'' I asked Ban. She went to ask the manager.

''FRB, a kind of fiberglass,'' she reported.

''What does it weigh?'' I wondered. She once again sought out the manager.

''Five hundred kilos.'' At more than half a ton, that was a respectable weight for an elephant.

Murakami, once he arrived, scrutinized the sculpture more critically. He observed it from all angles, indicating to the manager different bulges and hollows that needed smoothing. Mainly, though, he discussed with the manager whether there might be a way to divide the sculpture before it was shipped. He had recently discovered that flying a piece this bulky to New York would cost about $75,000. On top of that, the cost of fabrication -- including the painting, which was still to be done -- added another $125,000.

''It was a mistake,'' he told me. ''With the Japan Society, everything loses money.'' Eccles had committed about $75,000 to Kaikai Kiki for the sculpture. ''That's already big money for a young artist,'' Murakami said. Kaikai Kiki is helping to underwrite the Japan Society show, a long-term investment with at best a delayed payoff.

Still, this New York event will be an opportunity to showcase the talents of several of Murakami's acolytes. The exhibition includes work by one of his earliest volunteers, Masakatsu Iwamoto, a 35-year-old man with dyed-blond hair and a dark mustache who calls himself ''Mr.'' As a paid staff member, Mr. now administers the Geisai, a semiannual competition for Japanese artists that Murakami has staged since 2000; in his creative free time, Mr. has a very otaku-like interest in barely pubescent girls, which Murakami has encouraged him to express in his art. Chiho Aoshima, 30, who administers the design department at Kaikai Kiki, uses Illustrator software to compose fantasies that typically place girls in luridly colored natural settings. Aoshima is having a one-woman show in late May in Los Angeles at Blum & Poe; thanks to the Public Art Fund, at the time of ''Little Boy'' she will display a huge wallpaperlike mural, printed by ink jets onto vinyl, in the Union Square subway station in Lower Manhattan. Arguably the most talented of the Kaikai Kiki younger set is Aya Takano, 29, a former volunteer who now lives in Kyoto. Her cartoonlike androgynous forms recall the Vienna Secession and Surrealism as well as her lifelong devotion to science fiction. Whatever their abilities, all of these artists owe their positions in the limelight to Murakami. ''They can exist as artists only within the context of what Murakami has devised as a stage, like 'Superflat' or 'Little Boy,''' the critic Sawaragi said.

An aspiring artist who especially interests Murakami is Mahomi Kunikata, a chubby, bashful woman who looks younger than her 25 years. ''Any time I am looking for a Kaikai Kiki artist, I am looking for an original artist that is hidden,'' he said. ''Mahomi, if she wants to create new manga or painting, she has to go back to her history: 'My older brother is dead, and my younger brother is psychologically ill and screaming. I want to escape from here, but I am very fat and I cannot escape.' She cannot organize herself -- how to escape, how to create something.'' Murakami is gratified by the progress she has made in the five years he has known her. ''She can open her heart and now do her art,'' he said. It is characteristic of his deep-rooted ambivalence that Murakami is drawn to Kunikata's original and repellent take on kawaii culture when his own art is becoming kawaii in a simpler way.

Hardly fat, Kunikata nevertheless thinks she is overweight. And, as Murakami indicates, she has a troubled family background. At her suggestion, we met for our talk at a cake cafe in Yokohama, near the camera store where she works as a greeter. Unable to decide what to eat, she ordered slices of two kinds of strawberry shortcake, which she quickly consumed while I browsed through notebooks of her pencil-drawn manga.

In the first one, I opened to a drawing of very kawaii dogs -- kawaii, that is, except for the fact that they were killing and eating children. I turned the page and saw graphic depictions of naked girls being sexually violated.

Kunikata looked up from her cake. ''I'm very embarrassed,'' she said. ''Don't open it wide. People are eating.''

More discreetly, I flipped past a drawing of a girl with bleeding arm stumps to find more girls, sometimes bound, frequently confronted by boys with huge erections. I saw a puzzling one of a girl, a boy and a strange cat. I asked about the cat.

''The cat is dead,'' she said. ''It's Valentine's Day.'' I knew that in Japan on Valentine's Day, women and girls give chocolates to males they are fond of. ''The girl killed the cat,'' Kunikata continued, ''and made a chocolate fondue from the cat and gave it to the boy.'' I nodded and kept turning, not having anything in particular to inquire about the pictures of boys performing oral sex on tied-up girls and girls being forced into fellatio with very well endowed boys.

Reaching into her backpack, she showed me her recent work. On the backs of plastic models of sushi, the kind that are seen in restaurant windows, she had painted likenesses of slim, sexy girls.

I could see why Murakami loves Kunikata's art. It reveals the fear and anger that lie just beneath the surface of the kawaii culture -- or, to adopt the metaphor of superflat, the feelings that are embedded right on the surface, for those who look closely and knowledgeably. The manner in which Kunikata's eating obsession seeps into every aspect of her art also reminded me of how, in Murakami's view, the atom-bomb trauma permeates his country's culture. The pictures of Japan's past destruction are transposed into a catastrophic science-fiction future, and the country's childlike relationship to the United States is embraced in a celebration of the kawaii (a word derived from kawaiiso, meaning ''pitiful'' or ''pathetic''). A similar thing occurs in another fraught area: sexual relations between young men and women. The otaku portrayals of sexuality -- fixated on compliant, air-brushed schoolgirls -- are divorced from emotional reality, even from physical reality. This neutering of real life was epitomized by the enthusiastic reaction of Japanese children of Murakami's generation to the animated versions of atomic explosions and fire-bombings they watched on TV. One reason these kids cheered the demolition of Tokyo is that it was accomplished by a wizard: the most influential special-effects designer of the day, Eiji Tsuburaya, who learned his craft as a propagandist during World War II, preparing a rousing and convincing recreation of the (unfilmed) Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war, Tsuburaya redirected his talents -- and his agents of destruction -- into Godzilla, Ultraman, Rodan and Mothra. The imagery retained its stirring power. The context was secondary.

Anime and manga are inexact copies of Mickey Mouse, Betty Boop and other American cartoon characters, modified for Japanese taste and (at the time they were developed) for the limitations of Japanese technology. The Japanese have always had a genius for these adaptations. Murakami is a great admirer of the Kano School, a dynasty of painters who catered to the shoguns for almost four centuries by taking the principles of Chinese art (like prominent brushstrokes and ink monochrome) and Japanizing them. The Kano School centered on the successive generations of the Kano family, supplemented by talented students who were adopted and then allowed to take the Kano name. It is another model for Kaikai Kiki. (Indeed, the phrase ''kaikai kiki,'' which means ''brave, strong and sensitive,'' was borrowed from a critic in the late 17th century who used it to describe the paintings of Eitoku Kano.) One of Murakami's favorite artworks is a screen depicting an old plum tree that was painted for a temple in Kyoto by Sansetsu Kano in the 17th century and is now owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. In his ''Superflat'' essay, Murakami pointed to similarities between the spiky lines in Sansetsu's eccentric masterpiece and the designs of the leading anime artist Yoshinori Kanada. At about the same time, he produced a few paintings of his own in this style. Aside from his appreciation of the work, Murakami admires the way the Kano School perpetuated itself. He would like to start a line of comparable longevity. ''How did the Kano School survive 300 years or more?'' he once said to me. ''Japanese culture doesn't need to create an original something. A school is O.K. A little difference is great. Kakai Kiki School is O.K. -- Mr. and Chiho and Chinatsu.''

At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, there is currently a small show centered on the Kano School. I walked through it not long ago with its curator, Miyeko Murase, a leading scholar of Japanese art. ''I'm sure the Kano artists felt they were upholding the principles of Chinese painting,'' she explained. ''But to sell, they had to accommodate Japanese tastes. That went first of all to the introduction of color. By the time Sansetsu painted the old plum trees, the distortion and almost Cubist sense of form was possible because there was that breadth allowed in the Kano School.'' Along with their love of color, the Japanese preferred decorative patterning over Chinese naturalism. And they had a longstanding fondness for narrative. The word ''manga'' in its current usage was popularized by the great 19th-century artist Hokusai to describe his illustrated, often comical, narratives. But the form by another name goes back much further. At the beginning of the exhibition, Murase showed me an early-14th-century hand scroll, known as an emaki, that vividly depicted an unfolding battle. ''This is the first example we know of an illustrated literature that dealt with the love between an older monk and a younger monk,'' she said. ''It's part of a genre of stories of homosexual love between monks that was popular at the time. In this relationship, the love causes a war.'' With minimal alteration, the Met could repackage this emaki and sell it in a manga shop in Tokyo today.

Of course, many of the esoteric otaku references in Murakami's art are lost on Western observers. But he isn't sure it matters all that much if Westerners lack the background to recognize them. ''In the 70's, Japanese culture loved American rock 'n' roll,'' he noted by way of analogy. ''Eagles' 'Hotel California,' we cannot really understand, but 'Mmm, mmmm, mmmm, Hotel California! Oh, yeah, I understand.''' Still, he emphasized, ''if the audience is really interested, they have to learn everything.'' It may be that Americans feel they understand Murakami without conducting research because he is reacting to a hyperstimulated and decontextualized Japan that looks a lot like their own society. For unique historical reasons, the Japanese arrived earlier at an ahistorical worldview. Sawaragi compares the manner in which the Japanese have dealt with political reality in the postwar years to the capsule toys, known as gachapon, that can be purchased for a dollar or two from vending machines. ''War or history have come to be sealed inside the anime or manga world,'' he said. ''It is a sterilized, innocent, purified experience, defined by putting everything war-related inside a capsule.'' The battle planes and atomic monsters reside in the gachapon machine in cute, tiny images. Sanitized, they pop out, one after another, in no particular order.

Arthur Lubow, a contributing writer for the magazine, last wrote about Beck.

So how heavy is your handbag?

By Lisa Jewell Independent.ie

It may be an essential fashion accessory but a survey finds that the average modern hold-all now weighs a ton, and may be a health risk. They're a fashion accessory -- and, really, an absolute necessity -- but modern handbags are quite literally weighing down the modern woman. A new survey has shown that the average weight of a woman's handbag has increased by 38pc over the past five years and now tips the scales at 2.37 kilos (5lbs).

It seems that high-tech gadgets like mobile phones, MP3 players and digital cameras are partly responsible for this increase in weight. However, old handbag favourites such as make-up, hairbrushes, purses and mirrors are still ever-present in Irish women's handbags. The survey was carried out by UK supermarket chain ASDA. We're amazed by how quickly the weight of a handbag has grown -- especially since 2.37 kilos represents only the average figure," says brand director Fiona Lambert.

"This means that, at the extremes, there must be some women carrying handbags which are so heavy that they would put Sherpa Tenzing to shame. "The stress endured by the material and straps of a heavily laden bag as it swings freely from the shoulder is considerable. "It can be the equivalent of a hod carrier on a building site." The increasing weight means that shoulder bags are now the accessory of choice instead of bags carried in the hand or hooked over the elbow. However, the trend for oversized bags means there is even more space to fill with personal possessions. The bigger the bag, the more tempting it is to pack it all in. And carrying that amount of weight every day can have serious health consequences. "When weight is unevenly distributed on one side of the body, it can affect the neck and work its way to the middle of the back," says chiropractor Attracta Farrell of the Athenry Chiropractic and Complementary Health Clinic. "If it's severe enough, it can cause headaches. Handbag weight isn't something that women think can cause back problems -- I sometimes ask clients if I can lift up their bags and the weight is unreal." She advises women to carry the minimum amount of items in their bags and, if possible, to wear a rucksack-type design. "It distributes the weight more evenly across the body. But I have noticed that type of design has gone out of fashion, in favour of the bigger bags. "You should also alternate the bag from one shoulder to another, every 10-15 minutes."

Pack-it-all-in Lisa Lambe (25) is an actress Handbag contents Beret Big make-up bag Wallet Bottle of leave-in conditioner Travel toothbrush Hand cream Travel size hairbrush Script Paperback book Mobile phone Bottle of water iPod Due to the fact that she's out and about in Dublin city most of the time, Lisa has to be ready for different eventualities. "I tend to carry a lot of things around with me, because I don't know how long I might end up staying in town," she says. "I might be going from an audition to rehearsals and then meet up with friends later on."

A self-confessed bag enthusiast, she loves big leather shoulder bags. "My favourite one for everyday use is my leather Miu Miu bag. I love when the leather in the bag gets a little broken in -- it looks great." Lisa says her bags do weigh quite a bit, even when there's nothing in them. "My sisters would ask me where was I going with all that stuff in my bag but it's really about being prepared. "I usually bring make-up with me in case something crops up -- like one time I had to do a photo shoot at short notice, so I needed to have make-up in my bag." Knowing that she carries a lot of things in her bag, Lisa's friends know who to ask for headache tablets or a pen.

The downside is that the heavy handbag can be a strain on Lisa's upper body. "I tend to keep it on my right shoulder and it does feel really sore sometimes. I probably should do a total clean-out." In April, Lisa will be returning to her role as Sorcha in 'The Last Days of the Celtic Tiger' by Ross O'Carroll-Kelly. "The handbags that Sorcha has on stage are very glitzy -- there's a few that I wouldn't mind having!" The burden of proof Here are a few tips to keep your handbag from being a burden on your back. -Grab the bathroom scales and weigh your handbag both with the contents and without. You might be amazed by how much the actual bag weighs without anything in it! -Think through the day ahead and pack your handbag accordingly.

There's no need to cart around sunglasses and woollen hats if the season has changed and you just haven't updated your bag. - Pack a smaller make-up bag with a few of the essentials. You'll only have to touch up your make-up during the day so leave the foundation and brushes at home. -De-clutter your purse of small change -- clear it out every so often or else try to actually use up your change in shops. Irish people are the biggest hoarders of one and two cent coins in the eurozone but that doesn't mean you have follow that particular trend! Organised Elena Healy (24) is a marketing executive with Harmonia publishers Handbag contents Filofax Wallet Keys Pair of gloves Make-up Sunglasses Mobile phone When it comes to her essential handbag, Elena has the contents required fairly well pared down by now. "I probably have about five day bags and I'll alternate them depending on what I'm wearing," she says. "If I use the biggest bag, I'll tend to pop in a magazine to read and a notebook for work. Some days, I'll bring along my iPod and camera as well. "I usually use the same bag for two or three days running but then I'll dump the contents out onto my bed and only re-pack the things that I absolutely need." "I tend to wear quite big bags but that doesn't mean that I have to fill them up to the brim." "I try to just bring things that I know I'll need. Having said that, I'm sure I still carry stuff that I probably don't use all the time." Elena drives to work most days, which means that she can carry things like shoes inside her car. "If I was running around town one day, I'd probably need to bring more things in my bag.If I'm going shopping, I usually bring a light enough bag so I can put things in it." Laura Duff (41) is a mum-of-two and runs a designer maternity swap shop, www.momsoon.ie. Handbag contents Mobile phone Wallet Perfume (handbag size) Lip balm Nail file Notebook and pen Calculator Receipts Laura works from home a lot of the time and she adds items into her bag if she needs them for an upcoming meeting or appointment. "I tend to swap bags around depending on what I'm wearing," she says. "I usually move the same stuff from one bag to another. For some strange reason, I have a calculator in my bag at the moment but I wouldn't usually have that! I prefer the look of bigger bags but I don't carry that much in them. One reason is that I can't stand not being able to find my mobile phone when it's ringing in my bag." Laura says she's into handbags but doesn't spend a huge amount on them. "I prefer to buy a few nice bags for the price of one expensive bag. There are lots of lovely bags available on the high street. I like to change my handbags around a lot so I'd prefer to buy a few rather than spend all my money on one.I think that being on a waiting list for a handbag is the saddest thing ever." When her two kids -- now aged four and eight -- were younger, Laura's bag did end up becoming a hold-all for baby-related paraphernalia. "I didn't have a separate bag for baby stuff and because I like bigger bags, there was room for baby wipes and soothers.There's a bit more room in it now that they've gotten older and don't need those things any more."

-------------------
The contents of our handbag on any given day have to measure up to 5lbs for sure, here take a look wallet keys shoes book ipod blotting papers mirror lip gloss cell phone gloves and hat notepad pen If you are looking to lighten the load, than here are a couple of designer handbags that are small enough to prevent you from putting too much stress on your shoulders and back but roomy enough to let you carry all the 'essentials':

CHANEL designer handbag pink caviar small tote bag. This is one of Chanel's classic designs carried by celebrities and fashionistas world wide. Although it's named a small tote bag, it really is a perfect size tote for everyday and can easily transition into evening attire. The Chanel small tote bag measures about 9.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches with double leather and leather-woven chain straps measuring about 22 inches each with 9.5 inch drop. Guaranteed authentic and comes with a sleeper bag for storage. Shop this authentic Chanel handbag at 22% off now.

CHLOE designer handbags runway collection brown patent leather shoulder bag. Chloe shoulder bag in a rich deep dark brown patent leather with contrasting green cotton canvas exposed zippers and gray with tan napa leather accents. Chloe bag measures about 12 x 13 x 6 inches. The longer of the two leather straps measures 28 inches long with a 9 inch drop. The shorter strap which can hang creatively on the backside of the bag measures about 24 inches long. Comes with authenticity details. Guaranteed authentic. Sleeper bag included. Shop this authentic CHLOE handbag at 30% off now.

Purse selection based on womanly needs and lifestyle

By E.S. Cromwell

As if picking the perfect purse wasn't already a taxing and overwhelming experience, we women also have to take careful, tedious consideration toward selecting a purse or handbag for multiple uses or occasions. And normally, picking just one purse that can be utilized for numerous purposes, suitable for multiple occasions and complimentary to various outfits is almost impossible. This makes any woman's life a bit crazy, merely because we need to have multiple purses to, well, simply live, but also maintain practicality and some sort of fashion sense.

Gaining perfection, or more so pin-pointing multifaceted usability in our purses and handbags is all encompassing, too much so at times. And this is where the frustration lies as the options seem endless. To fill in all the gaps and meet purse requirements is all too befuddling, but there are ways to organize your thoughts, confusions and inquiries.

Before actual purse purchasing you should know just what you're going to purchase. And in the least, you should know the types of purses you can buy so you can meet your varied lifestyle requirements. Here are five purse and/or handbag options to consider, mull through and research, taking into consideration to your specific situation:

Tote Bag -

Commonly known as the standard 'carry bag,' this enlarged purse, of sorts, is used for toting purposes and proves as a practical option for busy mothers, but still maintains that casual and non-gym bag style look for all women on the run. This casualness helps with retaining a level of comfort in all locations and still provides functionality.

Satchel -

These purses are over-the-shoulder types of handbags that are used for toting purposes, specifically work related. Working women will use these types of bags to tote important work items to and from wherever they travel. Think of these bags as a woman's version of a man's briefcase. Files, laptops, lunches and other work related odds and ends are stuffed in these bags to travel around. Satchels provide a great amount of room to stop a woman's worries of not being able to have enough room in a purse.

Clutch -

This is a type of handbag used for minimal things and purposes. Minimal in the sense that only a few items can fit in a purse with no handles. Basically, what you can hold in one hand is what you can fit in your clutch. Ideally, this is used for evening outings where women can put all their essentials in one convenient and compact spot. Styles can range from casual to classy, based off tailoring and fabric types.

Duffel -

This 'gym-bag' style purse is large and primarily used when traveling on holiday or business trips. Multiple and large compartments are built into these style bags so women can put traveling essentials away, such as: shoes, a travel wardrobe and various clunky beautification products. If you're a traveling woman with lots of items, a duffel is for you.

Hobo -

Primarily crescent shaped, a hobo bag is meant to carry a good amount of lady essentials for women on the go. They're mostly shoulder strapped, with a casual and even work-style look at times, which can change based on fabric and tailoring style again.

Now that you are aware of the different types of purses and handbags, hopefully you'll be able to narrow down, which one -or few- would work with your style, but more significantly, your lifestyle. As already stated, it's almost impossible to select just one purse that proves universal for all our womanly needs and actions. But, this is positive for us women, in a way; now, we just have an excuse, more reason to purchase multiple purses for our versatile qualities.

Shop for authentic designer handbags now!

________

eFashionHouse offers online shoppers unlimited designer handbag purchases

Unlike other online stores, eFashionHouse.com offers online shoppers freedom to purchase an unlimited amount of designer handbags. Many large department stores limit online designer handbag purchases to one item per customer.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB) January 21, 2008 – eFashionHouse announced today they have no limits when it comes to online shoppers. They do not limit the amount of items one customer can purchase. Unlike the department stores who announced on January 10, 2008, a worldwide purchase control of designer handbags, eFashionHouse proclaims the opposite.

“Our Internet business moto is ‘Shopping without Boundaries.’ We are in business to cater to the world,” said Anna Miller, eFashionHouse.com’s owner. Online shoppers can purchase as many items as they want when placing an online order at eFashionHouse.com.

eFashionHouse was named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch and recognized by About.com as the top online retailer of Chanel.

eFashionHouse ships worldwide, offers deep discounts off retail, charges no sales tax and provides free USA FedEx delivery for orders over $200. Selling online for over twelve years, eFashionHouse lists high end brands like Chanel, Prada, YSL, Gucci, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, Tods, Coach, Tano, Marc Jacobs, Ferragamo, Dior and more.

Unlike many of the other online stores selling the same products, eFashionHouse allows online shoppers to purchase as many designer fashion accessories they want. There’s no limit to the items online shoppers can purchase and the money they can save. eFashionHouse is known for deep discounts on their entire product line.

Aboute FashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. eFashionHouse.com was named BEST OF THE WEB by People StyleWatch Magazine for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. eFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. eFashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer and has been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s.

Brighton Handbags

By Joseph Wunsch

The Brighton handbag was added to the Brighton line of stylish accessories in 1993. Each Brighton handbag goes through 20 steps during its creation. Upon completion of the process a leather patch, embossed with Brighton's statement of quality and an individual serial number is added. As you can see they really do put their heart into every product they make. It is for this reason the company is known for its heart logo. Components for some of the handbags are manufactured internationally in countries such as France, Italy, Spain, China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan.

Brighton handbags are handcrafted in California. At no time are there more than ten being made at a time. There is an attention to detail followed as a rule by Brighton craftsmen that is an exception in this industry. For example there is no tag explaining that the 'marks' and 'scars' are your "guarantee" of genuine leather-they painstakingly cut around the scars- to offer you, a flawless leather handbag. Each handbag is individually numbered, and is registered by its owner. Once registered, they are guaranteed. The leathers selected are the best from all over the world, and the hardware all originally created by Brighton artists and craftsmen, sterling silver finished, and protected from oxidation for everyday use.

The Brighton name has become to mean one-of-a-kind jewelry and fine Italian leather articles that are adorned with exquisite silver-plated ornamentation. Brighton's heart logo fits the company philosophy that the difference in products is a true attention to detail. Most of the items in the Brighton collection have some unique detail, a message engraved on a bracelet or a Brighton handbag with a favorite photograph, that gives them special meaning to the owner. This then leaves a lasting memory to cherish for a lifetime. This has also led to many women having their own Brighton collection.

Brighton handbags are available in nearly 6,000 specialty stores nationwide and 50 all-Brighton stores from coast to coast. Brighton handbags are not sold in department stores or on the Internet. This is keeping with the owner/president policy to only do business with stores with world class customer service. This is reinforced with a 2 year warranty against any manufacturer defects.

_________

High-end handbag glut

Christine McConville
Boston Globe

On the cozy second floor of Neiman Marcus, some very focused women picked through the discount bin, studying a $237 Hogan clutch and $667 quilted Marc Jacobs purse.

A few blocks away, at Filene’s Basement on Boylston Street, similarly intent shoppers scrutinized the black Bottega Veneta tote, marked down to $1,799, and a mohair Versace for just $1,859.

“There’s some Prada over there, too” said Aude Soleau, a French woman who moved to Boston last year.

A frequent visitor to the world-famous discounter, she’s noticed that more and more high-end, European-made handbags are selling there.

Industry analysts say that after a few years of heady sales, the designer handbag business is crashing, because in addition to the overall slowdown in retailing, the designer handbag market is oversaturated.

“The consumer is feeling the stress of the economy,” said Michael Niemira, chief economist for the International Council of Shopping Centers.

Accessories Magazine has predicted that the U.S. handbag market will grow just 4 percent this year, down from 8 percent in 2006.

Coach’s stock price dropped to a 52-week low last month, after the company cut prices on some soon-to-be discontinued merchandise.

The high-end handbag phenomenon exploded a few years ago, as images of Hermes-toting Britney Spears and Posh Spice flashed across the media universe.

For many women, a $150 Longchamp tote provided an entry into a coveted world of luxury.

Since then, prices have soared. The Web site “eFashionHouse.com” reports that the average woman’s designer handbag costs $5,000, up from $2,000 in 2004.

But as prices rose, mid-level retailers, such as Kenneth Cole and BCBG, started to compete by making hipper bags, which have siphoned sales away from the most-expensive brands.

In the city’s high-end shops, salespeople said business continues to be brisk. But they also said the high-end handbag market now runs the gamut from Coach, whose Signature Strip pouch costs $138, to Gucci, where the ostrich Queen costs $11,000.

“If someone who wants a $1,500 handbag has to cut back, she won’t buy the bag,” said one retailer who asked not to be named. “But if she’s buying a $17,000 bag, the economy probably doesn’t matter.”

“It’s kind of crazy, when you think about it,” said Caroline, a 32-year-old Bostonian with a chocolate-brown Jimmy Choo tucked under her arm.

“The first time I bought a Prada was eight years ago, and I paid $250,” she said.

Now, she said, that same bag would cost about $900.

Standing in the sea of buttery-soft, cut-rate bags at the Basement, Caroline predicted that expensive bags will continue to sell.

“People are going to keep paying for them,” she said.

But Ron Kurtz, president of the American Affluence Research Center, disagreed.

“A lot of the growth in the handbag market was among the aspirational affluent, who make less than $100,000 a year,” he said. “They are the ones who are really feeling the pinch.”

Even with the rising price of designer handbags, you can still find bags at below-retail prices and under $1k:

PRADA designer handbag bronze saffiano lux metallic leather BR3376. Gorgeous metallic bronze leather with polished silver hardware. Measures approximately 9.5 inch length by 6 inch tall with a 4 inch depth. The bag has four silver bulleted feet. The strap is about 16 inches long with a 6 inch drop. The flap has a double lock closure with attached key and fob. The interior of the flap is the same leather and color of the bag. The interior of the bag is fully lined with the PRADA monogram in a chocolate color and has one zippered pocket. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with cards and sleeper bag. 25% off retail.

GUCCI designer handbag black tote bag monogram motif 200047. Gucci monogram designs on black nylon satin twill fabric with leather trim at top. Black leather bottom and straps. Inside is fully lined in pink with one zippered pocket. Has a polished silver metal Gucci key ring on outside of bag. Measures approximately 15 inch length by 12 inch tall with a 5 inch depth. Leather straps measure about 22 inches with a 7.5 inch drop. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. 27% off retail.


BOTTEGA VENETA designer handbags tan woven leather with brass chain clutch. Measures approximately 5 W x 3 H. Back of purse has a full length fully lined zippered pocket. Flap over top with snap closure. Interior of bag has two separate compartments. Brass chain measures about 38 inches long. Chain has a dog leash snap which can shorten the chain to about 22 inches. Bottega Veneta stamped on inside of wallet. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic. 44% off retail.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Etro Hobo

We normally wouldn't be a fan of green reptile skin but it's hard not to love today's featured designer handbag from ETRO. A cult favorite of couture-loving fashionistas worldwide, ETRO has the same style and craftsmanship of other famed Italian fashion houses but is a little more edgy with their designs. After all not everyone could pull off a green and gold handbag. ETRO designer handbags reptile skin distressed green leather purse measures approximately 14 W x 9 H with a 5 inch depth. The adjustable strap measures about 14 inches long with a 9 inch drop.

Click here to shop this authentic ETRO handbag at 43% off. Plus take an extra 25% off your purchase with coupon code 25EFH08.

________

Fab Bag of the Day - Moschino Handbag

Everytime we see a MOSCHINO handbag, we know we are looking at something different. Like today's featured designer handbag from MOSCHINO that is a girly play on the nautical theme and definitely cooler than the basic nautical stripe. Perfect to pair with this season's high cut jeans, a basic white tee and high platforms or whatever creative outfit your heart desires.

Click here to shop this authentic MOSCHINO handbag at 14% off. Plus take an extra 25% off your purchase with coupon code 25EFH08.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Chanel Shearling Handbag

Since it's absolutely freezing outside, we thought today's featured designer handbag from CHANEL was fitting. It might not be the ultra-soft lambskin or caviar skin that symbolize a CHANEL handbag but warm black shearling and the signature chain strap are just as good when it's this cold. And because this CHANEL handbag boasts the CHANEL name, you can be sure it's as fashionable as it is warm.

Click here to shop this authentic CHANEL handbag at 40% off retail. Plus receive free shipping and no sales tax on your purchase.

_________

eFashionHouse Year End Clearance - EXTRA 25% OFF

Dedicated to offering authentic designer handbags and accessories at below retail prices, eFashionHouse.com announced today a New Year's Celebration with final markdowns throughout the website for handbag lovers around the globe.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB) January 1, 2008. eFashionHouse.com named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch for below retail priced designer handbags and recognized by About.com as the top of three online retailers of off-priced Chanel announced today a year-end clearance with lowered prices throughout the site and an extra 25% off savings on its designer handbags and accessories.

There's nothing fake about this New Year Celebration, and there's nothing fake about the designer fashion accessories sold by eFashionHouse. eFashionHouse made a conscious decision to lower all their prices site wide to celebrate the new year, and to give fashionistas world wide a head's up about the increased prices to expect in 2008 for the same branded products.

In 2005, the average price of a high-end designer purse was about $2000. In 2007, the average price hit about $3000. In 2008, expect prices throughout all major Department Stores and ecommerce sites to increase again. "Some Designers have already increased their new collections as high as 20% per item," said Anna Miller, eFashionHouse Owner. "We don't expect this trend to change or fade in the near future."

Unlike other ecommerce sites, eFashionHouse has systems in place for global shipping. Online since the mid-90's, eFashionHouse has offered its shoppers deep discounts on names like Gucci, Fendi, Hermes, Chanel, Prada, Etro, Marc Jacobs, Tods, Burberry, Tano, Furla, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, Pietro Alessandro, and many more high-end designer brands. eFashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion stores with an variety of items at all price points. The site was recently recognized by About.com for being the top of three online retailers with below-retail Chanel merchandise -- both, new and vintage. The eFashionHouse.com New Year Celebration requires a coupon discount code to be used at checkout, the code is 25EFH08. The code is valid January 2, 2008 and expires January 11, at which time all items will return to their everyday prices of 25% - 60% off retail.

About eFashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. EFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. eFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer & Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She’s been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s. eFashionHouse.com has an extensive Press Page and a Fashion Blog Network. Visit the site for more details.

Fab Bag of the Day - LeSportsac Tote

If you haven't already experienced the durable, stylish and to-die-for LeSportsac travel totes, than here's the perfect reason too. Colorful hearts and black trim are cute enough to carry as an everyday bag and the perfect size to take on your next weekend trip.

LESPORTSAC designer handbags small travel tote 7004. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket. Top zipper has a lock and key. Front of bag has three separate zippered pockets. Measures approximately 15 W x 10 H with a 6 inch depth. Black twill straps measure about 27 inches with an 11 inch drop. The smaller bag measures about 9 W x 7 H with a zip top closure. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this LeSportsac tote at 24% off. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

_______

Handbags can be a clutch for the nights out

Los Angeles Times

A New Year’s evening bag may not hold much more than a valet ticket, some Listerine strips and a Razr phone, but without one, getting dressed up just wouldn’t be the same. They can add sparkle or an unexpected dash of color to a simple dress or breathe new life into an otherwise tired old frock.

But with the prices of accessories soaring, evening clutches can cost more than you paid for the dress, forcing you to use the same bag every time you go to a formal affair.

Thankfully, there are options beyond the diamond-encrusted boxes and bejeweled minaudieres that go for more than a monthly car payment. Less-expensive styles are popping up in brilliant jewel-toned satins.

Why buy another little black dress for this season’s swirl of holiday parties? Wear what you have and spice it up with an evening bag from Banana Republic in a dazzling peacock blue or radiant yellow satin. At $49.50 for the bag, you can throw in a pair of new shoes or another accessory.

The girlish, ruffled Mansfield clutch by Hollywould for Target looks particularly saucy in red and will add texture and color to a simple dress. And at $19.99, you can afford to like ruffles for just one night and not feel bad.

So take a break from the frenzy of searching for a new dress this season and just change out the bag for something bright and festive. The best part about these bags, other than the price? All of them comfortably fit a BlackBerry.

Shop these designer evening bags at up to 50% off retail!

CHRISTIAN DIOR designer handbag peach satin evening bag. One inside pocket. Silver hardware. Snap top closure. Wrist strap is silver chain and peach leather. Inside signature monogram lining is gold on silver. Includes Dior embossed leather covered hand mirror. Chain strap folds into the bag to carry as a clutch. Unique locking device closure. Engraved CD hardware. Wrist strap is 13 inches long. Measurements are height 5 inches width 6.5 inches depth .75 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic. Limited supply.

PRADA designer handbags collection handbag BN0905. Genuine ostrich leather shoulder bag clutch bag designer purses. Prada BN0905 black ostrich leather handbag has silver toned branded bar handles a fully lined interior with an extra zipper pocket and a long strap. The bag closes with a flap and a snap and could be secured with a ring at each end that keep the handles together. Measurements: 16 inches wide X 7 inches tall X 4 inches deep X 16 inches strap drop. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. 66% off retail.

JUICY COUTURE designer handbags brown leather clutch 0609. Measures approximately 12 inch length 6 inch height 2 inch depth. Soft leather. Silver nickel hardware with keys and heart charms. Leather tassel. Fully lined with Juicy Couture signature lining. Inside zippered pocket. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.


CHRISTIAN DIOR designer handbags limited edition silver metallic clutch made of goat leather and python with a crystal inlaid floral pattern. Measures approximately 10 W x 5 H with a 3 inch depth. Silver metallic distressed leather with silver python trim. The hanging D silver charm is inlaid with python leather. The face of the bag is decorated with clear crystals in a floral pattern. The bag has a flap over magnetic snap closure. The interior is fully lined with one open pocket with a silver metal plate that reads dior limited edition 0120. The strap measures about 7 inches long. Made in Italy. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.


PIETRO ALESSANDRO designer purses silver metallic pebble grain leather clutch bag 2075. New this season. All leather construction. High end designer details throughout the construction. Secure top closure. Fully lined. Extra pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Measures about 12 x 7 x 2 inches. Has a 14 inch wrist strap. Front flap securely closes with a push lock closure.

_______

Heaven is a handbag

Helen Greenwood
The Sydney Morning Herald

A handbag has pushed me over the edge. It wasn't a Hermes Birkin or a Louis Vuitton Tribute or a Marc Jacobs Carolyn or any other arm candy with a flirty name and a price as high as the cost of an education.

It wasn't the year's ugliest designer bag, with belts and buckles, logos and patterns, purse pockets and fat straps, that was copied in countless ways and appeared on countless arms.

No, it was the young woman at the bus stop, with a large, rounded bag rendered faux secure by a dangling lock the size of my fist. As I gazed at her and her accoutrement, I realised she was carrying a stylised chastity belt. I got the giggles. Did she have any idea what message she was sending out?

Sigmund Freud is said to have pointed out that sometimes a handbag was the symbolic embodiment of a woman's vagina. Well, he would, wouldn't he?

He actually was referring to his patient, the now famous Dora, and alluded to her playing with her "reticule" as representative of masturbating. The young woman clutching her emblematic chastity belt and stuffing it with her most personal possessions seemed to take Freud's idea in a new direction.

A reticule first appeared in the 18th century as a fashion accessory and dates back to antiquity and the pouches used to carry tools or provisions. Since then, we've seen handbags that look like saddle bags, shopping bags and swaddling cloths. We've seen bumbags, underarm bags and backpacks. Bags have been bucket-shaped, flat, handleless and huge. They've been tiny, beaded, dangling with ornaments, origami-like and collapsible.

The worst were those uptight bread boxes with the too-short straps and the mezzaluna-shaped ones that were impossible to get into. They made women look like five-year-olds playing dress-ups.

The notion that a handbag is a toy, not just a receptacle, is the raison d'etre of fashion. Clothing designers have been flogging accessories as playthings for decades. First shoes, then perfume, sunglasses and, for the past five years, handbags have pushed the bottom line of the couture companies into the black.

According to Dana Thomas, author of Deluxe, while the luxury market grew by 1.2 per cent each year from 2001 to 2004, leather goods sales increased by 7.5 per cent each year.

Handbags have also been pushed onto women like junk food at children. No catwalk collection happens without handbags. Department stores put the bags on the ground floor, right next to those other money spinners: perfume and cosmetics. Paparazzi snap pictures of actrines toting handbags (do any of them pay retail for these?) that are breathlessly re-photographed by glossy magazines.

Women have responded because buying a handbag doesn't require undressing and seeing your body in the unflattering light of a changing-room mirror. No matter how big or small a woman's body is, a bag is one-size fits all.

Then there is the instant cachet. Unlike a jacket that has its label on the inside, modern branded handbags strut their labels on the outside. Women get on the ground floor of an aspirational skyscraper courtesy of a barely affordable handbag. This is the much discussed "entry level" to luxury.

American writer Daphne Merkin compares the obsession with handbags to the 17th-century mania for tulips in Holland. Just as the Dutch burgeoning burgher class displayed its wealth with an amoral lust for the rarest plants, women in wealthy societies have developed the It-Bag syndrome.

Also dubbed the Sienna Miller Syndrome, after the petite English actress and socialite who has become a style leader, it's an epidemic. The Guardian reported in August on a survey in a British shopping centre that revealed the average 30-year-old British woman owns 21 handbags at any given time, and buys a new one every three months - spending up to £380 ($860) a go.

Entrepreneurial websites like Bagborroworsteal.com have cashed in on women's desperation to sport the latest, renting them ultra-luxe bags so they can change their look more often.

According to Anna Johnson, in her introduction to Handbags: The Power Of The Purse, "a good bag becomes an intimate extension of the body". Let's ignore the red herring of why it has to be a "good" bag and note that Johnson's observation is less overtly sexual than Freud's, but no less psychological.

We carry bags to carry our secrets, the talismans with which we identify and which makes us feel we exist. We carry bags because we are urban Bedouins on the move from morning to night and living in fear of getting caught without the essentials, even though it's laughable to think anyone in an affluent society would.

We use bags in other ways, too. They prevent people from getting too close. They are a shield from the bumping on buses and the jostling on footpaths, and just try sidling up to someone who has a bag firmly tucked against their body.

I confess to having been seduced by many handbags. Recently a vintage-look, distressed leather number by an American brand took my fancy. It's soft and comforting and discreet. It could be sexually symbolic but sometimes a bag should be just a bag.

___________

Fab Bag of the Day - Marc Jacobs Metallic Tote

If you haven't already taken advantage of the after-Christmas sales, then what better way to start than with a MARC JACOBS handbag at 26% off retail. Metallic Marc Jacobs - two things we love.

MARC JACOBS designer purse quilted tote bag. Double straps measure about 16 inches each. Purse measures about 17 x 13 x 5 inches with double handle straps. MARC JACOBS Engraved hardware. Monogram details. Fully lined in black nylon cloth. MARC JACOBS monogram embossed inside trim. One large zip pocket inside bag. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this MARC JACOBS handbag at 26% off retail. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - The Sak Crocheted Shoulder Bag

One of the hottest looks in winter accessories is crocheted. Like today's featured designer handbag from THE SAK which boasts beautiful crocheted squares in varying shades of blue and ivory. Not your Grandma's crocheted!

THE SAK designer handbags blue crocheted designer purse. Various shades of blue crochet onto smooth dark brown leather. Measures approximately 17 W x 9.5 H with a 5 inch depth. Double leather straps measure about 24 inches with a 10 inch drop. Zip top closure. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. The Sak metal Fob is attached to the handle and The Sak is embossed on the top zipper pull tap. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this THE SAK handbag at 38% off. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Dooney & Bourke Shopper

Shopping is easy when you have this DOONEY & BOURKE shopper. Not only can you trek this canvas DOONEY & BOURKE designer handbag to the grocery store but it's perfect for work as well.

DOONEY & BOURKE designer handbag large roll up shopper olive designer purse. Olive colored canvas twill with brown leather handles and closure. Silver hardware. Measures approximately 13 inch tall by 12 inch wide with a 4 inch width at base. Top closes with a leather magnetic snap. One inside zipper pocket. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic DOONEY & BOURKE shopper at 25% off. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

___________

Fab Bag of the Day - Pietro Alessandro Patent Leather Handbag

Patent was one of the hottest trends this season and we hope it's the same for next season. Not only can you get the patent leather look in the handbag style of you choice, you can also get in in any color or the standard black which is always hot.

PIETRO ALESSANDRO designer purses black patent leather designer handbags 1190. New this season. All leather construction. High end designer details throughout the construction. Secure top closure. Fully lined. Extra pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Measures about 15 x 15 x 3 with a 24 inch strap.

Click here to shop this PIETRO ALESSANDRO handbag now. Plus take an extra 20% off your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_______________

Fab Bag of the Day - Coach Chelsea Optic Hobo

Happy Holidays! Here's a designer handbag to kick off next year's funky styles.

COACH designer handbag CHELSEA OPTIC SIGNATURE HOBO 10990. Coach handbag has a graphic Signature pattern and has always been a hot seller. The Coach handbag has a slouchy hobo shape. Includes an Inside zip pocket and Cellphone multi-function pockets. Inside the Coach bag is a Ring to clip an accessory or keyfob. There is a Back open pocket and a secure Turnlock closure The Optic Signature fabric has a contrasting leather trim. Interior is fully lined in a twill Fabric lining. The Coach purse has a 18.5 inch adjustable braided strap with a 9 inch drop. The Coach Chelsea 10990 measures about 9.5L x 9.5H x 3.25W. Comes with sleeper bag. Guarantee authentic.

Click here to shop this authentic COACH hobo at 16% off.

______

Fab Bag of the Day - Isabella Fiore Kendall Clutch

What better way to compliment that slinky holiday dress with a gorgeous pink clutch from ISABELLA FIORE. Right now we are loving clutches because it's the time of year when you have so many reasons to wear one.

ISABELLA FIORE designer purse kendall clutch made of grainy calf leather with silver hardware and contrast stitching. The bag has a removable wrist strap. The interior is lined in printed canvas and has two large compartments and a zipper pocket.Measures 12 inches wide X 5.5 inches tall X 1.5 inches deep. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this authentic ISABELLA FIORE clutch at 32% off. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

_____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Ralph Lauren Brown Velvet Tote

You can never have too many totes because they can go with you anywhere. Plus there are so many styles to choose from like today's featured designer handbag from RALPH LAUREN.

RALPH LAUREN designer handbags brown velvet and blue denim medium tote. Brown velvet bag and straps with a blue denim trim at the top of the bag. Two open pockets on the front and rear of the purse. Measures approximately 14 W x 10 H with a 6 inch depth. The straps measure about 21 inches with a 9 inch drop. Open top. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. The Ralph Lauren Polo Jeans Co logo patch is on the front of the bag and on the interior. Comes with a sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this RALPH LAUREN tote at 31% off. Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase.

_______

Fab Bag of the Day - Cole Haan Satchel

If you are still shopping for Christmas gifts, don't forget to pick up a new designer handbag for yourself - come on you deserve it! Like today's featured designer handbag from COLE HAAN that is 45% off!

COLE HAAN designer handbag triple zipper leather and twill B15724 satchel. Beige twill fabric with beige leather handle and trim with brass hardware. Measures approximately 14 inch length by 7 inch tall with a 7 inch depth. Straps measure about 20 inch length with an 8.5 inch drop. There are three separate handbag sections each with its own zipper pull. There is a section by each handle and one in the center of the bag. All three sections are fully lined and one has a zippered pocket. The face of the bag has a flap over pocket with a magnetic snap closure with the Cole Haan name etched on it. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic COLE HAAN handbag at 45% off now! Plus receive an extra 20% off your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

__________

Handbags are gifts for every occasion

By Chris Robertson

Every woman has a basic necessity: a handbag. A purse gives the security of knowing that she has scissors, her cell phone and credit cards close at hand. So, you cannot go wrong by giving handbags as gifts.

Handbags make a perfect gift item since they come in so many different styles & colors. Just be sure to choose the handbag that best suits the personality of the person receiving your gift.

Styles of Handbags

There are so many different styles of handbags, making them perfect gifts for almost any occasion. Below is just a sample of choices available when choosing your purse to give that special someone in your life.

Leather handbags are noted as being a favorite among women. These handbags are made to last and can be used for work or going out on the town. Cotton is another good choice. It is a fabric handbag and comes in an array of different colors.

Handbags come in all shapes and sizes. There are small handbags for the petite size and large handbags for the women who like to carry everything but the kitchen sink.

Handbags also come with adjustable straps. This is very convenient and it lets you decide if you would rather carry the bag on your shoulder or with your hand. If you are one that likes to carry your handbag on your shoulder, remember, there are special-made bags that help reduce the stress on your shoulder thus eliminating back pain.

Colors of Handbags

Handbags come in a wide variety of colors. There are the darker colors for the winter season and light colors for spring or summer. A word of caution: If you plan to buy a light color purse, check the fabric and make sure it can be cleaned.

Occasions for Handbags

The many different occasions for using a handbag are another reason for giving these as gifts. Handbags can be used to carry to a wedding, prom, or a formal dance. There are many types of handbags that can be carried to the work place every day. Handbags are also needed for church and sports events.

Remember, handbags complete the outfit and bring out the personality in each person.

Gifts That Accent Handbags

You cannot go wrong if you give jewelry along with the handbag. Scarves also make great gifts. Just make sure the colors match. If you feel the handbag is not enough to give, and you are uncertain about what to give that special person here are a few more ideas.

1. Perfume
2. Lingerie
3. Massage Oils
4. Hats
5. Shoes

Off-line, there are many specialty shops for handbags, and for the bored man who is helping you to shop, I am sure he will run across an electronics or automotive parts shop to keep him busy.

If your time is limited and you do not have the time to shop for gifts at the mall, you can always surf online to shop for your bag. You can even find Internet retail outlets that carry major brands, which are usually not in stock or hard to find, and have them drop-shipped to your doorstep! While there, you can also choose from many other items including products for your pets, household items, telephones, DVD players, car alarms, radar detectors, toys, and sports items. The choices are unlimited.

Choose the handbag gifts that best suit your loved ones today!

Still looking for gift ideas? Following is a few suggestions for the perfect handbag gift at discounted prices for every budget. Hurry, click here to shop now because Christmas is almost here!

TANO handbag shoulder bag made from smooth bello leather with silver hardware and secure zipper top closure. The interior is fully lined and there is an extra zipper pocket. The strap is removable and the large silver rings serve as handles so one can get two different looks for the price of one. Tano handbag measures approximately 11 wide X 4 tall X 5 inches deep X 10 inch strap drop. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Click here to shop this Tano handbag for only $89 now!

COACH designer handbags signature lozenge coach name in blue on white canvas large tote. Measures approximately 14 W (at top of bag) x 12 H with a 5.5 inch depth. Blue leather straps measure about 20 inches long with a 9 inch drop. Brass hardware. Smooth blue leather bottom. Top closure has a dog leash clasp at top center of bag. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket with the leather Coach ID and serial number and multiple open pockets. Leather ID tag attached to top of bag along with leather Coach fob and Coach brass medallion. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Click here to shop this authentic COACH handbag for $266 (24% off retail!).

MARC JACOBS designer purses quilted leather shoulder bag designer handbag. Measures about 12.5 x 9 x 5 inches. Zip top. Quilted leather. Single shoulder strap about 20 inches long. Front pocket with push lock closure. Monogram details. Marc Jacobs designer purse. Fully lined. Available in green or red. 100% Authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Limited stock. Click here to shop this authentic MARC JACOBS handbag for$599 (33% off retail) now.

CHRISTIAN DIOR designer handbags tan calfskin leather hobo 44206. Measures approximately 15 W x 9 H with a 5 inch depth. 13 inch long strap with a 10 inch drop. Flap over top closure with metal hook. Dior is embossed on the nickel plated hardware. The Dior name is also cut into the leather on the front two corners of the bag and on the end pockets. Brown suede interior with one zippered pocket and two open pockets. Made in Italy. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Click here to shop this authentic CHRISTIAN DIOR handbag for $954 (40% off retail!).

CHANEL designer handbags silver deerskin designer purse. Measures approximately 14 W x 5.5 H with an 8 inch depth. Leather strap handles measure about 15 inches long with a 6.5 inch drop. Zip top closure with a silver CC pull tab. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic. Click here to shop this authentic CHANEL handbag for $1450 (24% off retail!).

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Luella Giselle Shoulder Bag

Today's featured designer handbag from LUELLA is one of the reasons the designer won the hearts of the fashion world when it first debuted. Rich leather and signature adornments are one-of-a-kind.

LUELLA designer purses shoulder Giselle bag made of grainy calf skin leather with silver hardware and contrast top stitching. The bag has a braided handle that can be adjusted in length by hooking onto the higher or lower side hardware rings. The interior is fully lined and has an extra zip pocket. The top closes with a zipper. Measurements: 14 inches wide X 11.5 inches tall X 1.5 inches deep X 7.5 inches strap drop. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this authentic LUELLA handbag at 50% off. Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Diesel Canvas Duffle Bag

Although we love couture, a fun bag is a must for any fashionista's closet. Fun bags are the designer handbags that take you to the beach, the park, the gym and anywhere laid back.

DIESEL designer handbags canvas duffle bag. Navy denim with white stitching. Gold tone hardware. Detachable white webbed shoulder strap with clips. White webbed top handles with blue 19/Seventy-Eight print on front. Zip top. Green Diesel logo printed on front. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic DIESEL handbag at 27% off now. Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Latico Leather Wallet

If you're still looking for that perfect gift for a co-worker, friend, sibling, than consider Latico leather accessories. Don't let the price fool you, Latico makes quality leather handbags and accessories at very affordable prices.

LATICO designer wallets brown leather wallet. Style number 0015BRN. Brown leather zippered billfold wallet. Folds in half and secures with two magnetic snaps. Measurements are about height 6.25 inches width 7 inches depth .5 inches. Guaranteed authentic.


Click here to shop this LATICO wallet at 50% off retail. Plus get an extra 20% of your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Kenneth Cole Hobo

If you want a quality designer handbag but don't want to pay a fortune to own one, then KENNETH COLE handbags may be for you. Known for quality, durability and style, KENNETH COLE is classic American luxury.

KENNETH COLE designer handbags large cream hobo. Measures approximately 17 W x 14 H with a 5 inch depth. The woven leather straps measure about 20 inches long with an 8 inch drop. Magnetic snap center closure. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic KENNETH COLE hobo at 26% off retail price. Plus take an extra 20% of your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Michael Kors Darlington Shoulder Bag

We love designer handbags but we are especially big fans of everyday bags. Perhaps it is because they make our lives easier but everyday bags provide a sense of security - probably because they carry around our lives - and for that we love them.

MICHAEL KORS designer handbags tan leather medium darlington shoulder bag. Measures approximately 13 W x11 H with a 4.5 inch depth. The leather shoulder strap measures about 20 inches long with a 9 inch drop. Magnetic snap top closure. Face of bag has a snap closure pocket with Michael Kors embossed on the brass hardware. The bottom of the bag has four brass feet. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic MICHAEL KORS handbag at 26% off. Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

___________

Fab Bag of the Day - Hobo International Clutch

Before you dress to impress for the roster of holiday parties, make sure your accessories look as good as the rest of you. Grab a modern designer clutch in a hot hue and your shine as bright as the Christmas lights.

HOBO INTERNATIONAL designer handbags blue clasp clutch. Bow ribbon on front of bag. Brass colored hardware. Measures approximately 8 inch long by 4 inch tall by 1.5 inch wide. Top of clutch has a zip top closure. Clasp side has two open pockets. Center section of clasp has ID holder and three credit card slots. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic HOBO clutch at 19% off retail. Plus use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off FINAL CLEARANCE items.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Silver Metallic Coach Hobo

Two things that we love this season are metallic and hobos which is why today's featured designer handbag from COACH tops our Christmas list this year. Since shiny has been such a hit, wearing metallic during the day went from a fashion faux pas to the latest fashion fix.

COACH designer handbag silver metallic hobo FS8B19. Coach name is etched in the silver strap rings.Leather Coach pull tab attached to zipper. Measures approximately 10 inch length by 6 inch tall with a 2.25 inch depth. Adjustable strap measures about 16 inches long with a 6 inch drop. Fully lined interior in a light blue fabric with one zippered pocket. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic COACH handbag at 24% off! Plus take an additional 20% off your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_________

Fab Bag of the Day - Nina Ricci Scarf

If your friend, sister or mom already has enough designer handbags (gasp, can't be possible) then why not gift her with the next best thing - a designer scarf. Although scarfs are all the rage in Paris, the trend has never fully caught on here but we think it should. There's nothing more beautiful on a woman than an exquisite designer handbag and a timeless silk scarf. So get one for a gift, or even better, for yourself.

NINA RICCI designer scarf in cotton. About 22 inches square. Guaranteed authentic. Limited supply.

Click here to shop NINA RICCI scarfs at 51% off! Plus take an extra 20% off your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

________

Fab Bag of the Day - Coach Leather Tote

If you still have holiday shopping to do then don't forget the perfect gift for everyone on your list - Coach accessories. Like today's featured designer handbag from COACH which makes a great gift for a fashionista that appreciates high quality, classic handbags that never go out of style.

COACH designer purses large white leather tote. All leather but still lightweight for a large tote. Measures approximately 13.5 W x 12 H with a 5 inch depth. Handles measure about 17 inches with a 9 inch drop. Dog leash top closure. One outside pocket with turnlock closure. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Leather Coach hang-tag attached. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this authentic COACH handbags at 13% off retail! Plus take an extra 20% off you entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Cole Haan Clutch

We love clutches and today's featured designer handbag from COLE HAAN is an example of why clutches are such a big hit this season. Still able to make a statement but small enough to carry everywhere, clutches are the biggest hit of the season.

COLE HAAN designer handbag brown leather mirror bangle clutch. Magnetic flap safety closure. Top has a full zip closure. Very distinctive contrasting stitching. Inside of flap contains a small mirror. Fully lined. Gold hardware. Measures approximately 9 inch long by 5 inch tall. Leather wristlet measures about 6 inches long. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this COLE HAAN clutch now. Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20 now.

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Kenneth Cole Bucket Bag

Here's a bag for mom, sis, bff and anyone else who likes quality handbags. Black is always a great color for handbags because it goes with everything and will never go out of style.

KENNETH COLE designer purses hardware and feet. Kenneth Cole handbag fully lined. Inside pockets. Zip top closure. Single shoulder strap measures about 22 inches long. Black leather black leather bucket bag. Kenneth Cole purse goldtone tassle. Style number HK60234LE. Measurements are about height 13 inches width 15.5 inches depth 4.5 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic. Limited supply.

Click here to shop this KENNETH COLE handbag at 35% off, plus use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off.

___________

Fab Bag of the Day - Pink Ralph Lauren Tote

We all have one of those girlfriends who absolutely love pink, and here's a gift they are sure to love. This RALPH LAUREN tote comes in monogram pink with black trim makes a great travel tote or everyday bag. Plus you can't beat the price at only $49!

RALPH LAUREN designer purses nylon shoulder tote. Lauren Ralph Lauren purse silver hardware. Lauren Ralph Lauren handbag fully lined. Style number 767TTE. Double handles measure each about 25 inches long. Measurements are about height 11.5 inches width 17 inches depth 5.5 inches. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this RALPH LAUREN tote at 29% off retail! Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

______________

Fab Bag of the Day - Guess Shoulderbag

GUESS is a big hit among young, hip girls who like to stay on top of the trends. Today's featured designer handbag from GUESS combines some of the hottest trends all in one bag.

GUESS designer handbags black nylon shoulder bag. Style 6926. Measures approximately 11 W x 6 H with a 4.5 inch depth. The straps measures about 13 inches long with a 4 inch drop. The adjustable and removable shoulder strap measures about 31 inches with a 13 inch drop. Zip top closure. Flap over top closure with a magnetic snap closure as well. Interior is fully lined with one zippered pocket and one open pocket. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop GUESS handbags and accessories at up to 70% off! Take an additional 20% off your purchase with coupon code OFF20.

Fab Bag of the Day - Cole Haan Satchel

If you haven't already added an ivory, cream or white handbag to your collection, than now's the time. A surprise hit of the last couple of seasons, there's something about "winter white" that warms us up. Like today's featured designer handbag from COLE HAAN that is made from soft, ivory leather.

COLE HAAN designer handbags large ivory leather village soft satchel designer purses. Extremely soft leather handbag the look and feel of quality deer skin. Measures approximately 14 W x 8 H with a 10 inch depth. The adjustable straps measure about 22 inches long with an 8 inch drop. Zip top closure. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic COLE HAAN handbag at an unbelievable price! Plus take an extra 20% off with coupon code OFF20.

_______________

Fab Bag of the Day - The Sak shoulder bag

Since The Sak made its way onto the accessories scene, the functional and unique designer has been a favorite among girls who favor comfort over glitz in their everday handbags. Today's featured designer handbag from The Sak combines both a relaxed crochet bag with eye-popping color.

THE SAK designer handbags fabiana style crochet blue designer purses. Blue crochet handbag measures approximately 11 W x 9 H with a 3 inch depth. The strap is about 25 inches long with a 12 inch drop. Zip top closure with a nickel colored Sak pull tap. The Sak metal emblem attached. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Side of purse has a lined zippered pocket. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to get this The Sak handbag at 37% off retail now!

Online Shopping Bargain for Sale & Final Clearance:

• Use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off FINAL CLEARANCE items.
• Use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off all SALE items.
• Plus, Free Fedex to Lower 48 States $200 orders & NO Sales Tax World Wide!

____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Dooney & Bourke Banana Bag

This blog is all about helping you find great values in designer handbags and nothing is more of a value than household name DOONEY & BOURKE. Today's featured designer handbag makes a great gift for your the teen sister or the fun-loving friend.

DOONEY & BOURKE designer handbags IG452 black banana bag. The medium Banana Bag measures about 11" x 3" x 5" in size and has a single shoulder strap with a drop of about 9.5 inches. There are four outside pockets. The bag is fully lined. Inside zip pocket. Cell phone pocket. Inside key hook. Secure top zip closure. Colorful motif and natural genuine leather trim. Pale gold hardware and chain details. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to get this authentic DOONEY & BOURKE bag at 31% off!

Online Shopping Bargain for Sale & Final Clearance:

• Use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off FINAL CLEARANCE items.
• Use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off all SALE items.
• Plus, Free Fedex to Lower 48 States $200 orders & NO Sales Tax World Wide!

____________

The it-bag parade ppppppppp

Telegraph.co.uk

Ten years ago your handbag was just a receptacle for purse and keys. Nowadays it's a fashion statement that says more about you than anything else in your wardrobe. Judy Rumbold casts a quizzical eye over a decade of it-bags and the celebrities who have wielded the

Ten years ago no one made a lot of noise about handbags. They were simply humdrum accessories, along with shoes and jewellery, that added the finishing touches to clothes. They were practical, functional and not at all sexy. How things have changed. Due to clever marketing, celebrity endorsement and, it seems, feverish acquisitiveness on a monstrous scale, the world has gone mad for bags. The more the better. One for every outfit. In every colour and size and myriad combinations of pulse-quickening studs, tassels, quilting and hardware. Now bags are cult items, must-have accessories for which ordinarily sensible women will submit to all sorts of indignities - interminable waiting-lists, unseemly bidding wars on eBay, hissy fits in department-store handbag departments. All because they saw Sienna Miller carrying it in Heat. Is there a woman alive who isn't infected by it-bag fever? Is there a man alive who has the faintest idea why handbags suddenly cost a month's salary? And it all started a decade ago with one little bag from Fendi…

1998 Fendi Baguette

Being named after a loaf may not sound all that promising on paper, but this is the style widely credited as the original it-bag. Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi to tuck neatly under the arm like French bread, the early designs featured the double-F logo created by Karl Lagerfeld when he began working for the company in 1962. The hype surrounding the Baguette began after the company held a legendary sample sale in New York in December 1997. The bags had yet to take off, and the company offered them to fashion insiders, including many magazine editors, for the breathtakingly low price of £25 each, or £50 for the fur variety. Shortly afterwards, during the European fashion collections in March 1998, armies of fashion folk turned up flaunting their cut-price Baguettes. They were widely photographed, and an it-bag was born. Now more than 600 versions of the Baguette exist, ranging from a £200 black nylon one to a hand-loomed style costing £6,000.

1999 Prada Bowling

The polar opposite of the Baguette - more of a sandwich loaf - but welcomed by women whose daily haul stretched to more than a lipstick and credit card. Time has shown that celebrity likes a big bag - it says, 'I have stuff to carry, I am going places' - because it helps promote the impression that their lives aren't as shallow and pointless as all that. Inside a big bag there may well be frilly pants and make-up, but who says there isn't also a film script and even - whisper it - a book or two? Where the outsized ostrich-skin Prada bag gained legions of fans for functionality, it lost out in the sexy-name stakes. It seems that roomy bags are the ungainly outcasts of the bag world, with an impoverished lexicon. Outside the pages of Grazia, does any normal person actually say 'tote' or 'shopper'? This is the bag whose size prompted the silliest piece of fashion advice I have ever read: carry a big bag and your bum will look smaller. Now, I am as gullible as the next woman when it comes to quick-fix slimming solutions, but really. Have you ever mused on how slim Santa's bottom looks in relation to his big red sack? No, thought not.

2000 Dior Saddle

Mention 'hardware' and you'd be forgiven for conjuring an image of men in brown coats selling nails by the ouknce. But the Saddle bag changed all that. Now hardware was all about seriously weighty bag embellishment - flashy buckles and rivets and sexy shiny stuff. Some versions of Dior's Saddle flaunted more horse paraphernalia than a Chingford theme pub, and women loved it. With its unique equestrian styling, it appealed to the pony-mad gymkhana-entrant in us all. A rosette declaring fourth place in the mane-plaiting discipline would have finished it off nicely. With the Saddle, John Galliano brought novelty and whimsy to mass-market bag design - no small achievement in the stiff, po-faced world of leather goods.

2001 Balenciaga Lariat

Hard to believe now, but the Lariat was slow to sell when it first launched. Then the highly successful 'seeding' technique was used. Thirty of the bags were sent to fashion's most influential names, and it duly appeared hooked over the bankable shoulders of Kate Moss and Sienna Miller. The bag, inspired by fringed leather biker paraphernalia, became wildly desirable, and another it-bag was born. Ordinarily sensible women who, under normal circumstances, couldn't give a monkey's about this or that vacuous celebrity, suddenly turned all silly when there was a nice bag involved. The madness shows little sign of abating.

For a bag to be pictured on a celebrity arm is priceless PR, but it has to be the right calibre of arm. Keira Knightley is rumoured to receive 20 bags a week, which leads people like you and me to ponder this gross injustice: why do women with the least stuff to lug around own the most bags? I am guessing that Victoria Beckham, who owns a roomy Hermès Birkin in every colour, does not count among her daily haul a stash of balled-up tissues, any number of dog-eared Tesco Computers for Schools vouchers and a few Playmobil heads. This is possibly why she gets sent free bags and we don't.

2002 Luella Gisele

This bag established the trend for ensuring exclusivity and heightening the buzz by giving bags their own names. Not plebby names like Tracy and Pat, but aspirational or iconic names. The Tod's Lady Di tote and Gucci's Jackie bag were earlier forerunners. The Gisele, named after the model Gisele Bündchen, is festooned with more fancy bridlery than a prancing show pony. Fabulous to look at but - and I speak as an owner here - a pig to use. Takes an age to get in and out of. People in Post Office queues hate you. Still, when has practicality ever been the key selling point of an it-bag? Women want it-bags for lots of different reasons, very few of them to do with having enough room to stash a spare nappy and a Thermos. Women want fashionable bags because they impart status, because they can render a boring outfit instantly fabulous and because they allow entry-level access to a designer name whose clothes they might never be able to afford. When guilt strikes at the £500-plus price tag, women can comfort themselves with this thought: bags are democratic and inclusive. They transcend tricky divisions to do with weight, age and social status. In short, bags are not just for skinny bitches. There is no such thing as a size-zero bag.

2003 Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolore

Following the spring show that featured the Murakami-designed bags, the
customer-services lines at Louis Vuitton were jammed with orders. The first shipments never hit the sales floor - they were all pre-sold. There is a school of thought that says Louis Vuitton's creative director, Marc Jacobs - who brought the Japanese artist Takashi Murakami on board for this project - is little short of God where bags are concerned; am I allowed to say that, in the case of the Multicolore, this was God having an off-day? But who cares what I think, because the Multicolore sold by the shedload and was, of course, widely copied. Spare a thought here for Louis' son Georges Vuitton, who in 1896 created the intricate LV logo with the express intention of preventing counterfeiting. He failed abysmally.

Vuitton is the most knocked-off brand in fashion history. Despite its garish 33-colour logo design, the Multicolore was a model of good taste next to a later Vuitton offering, the Tribute Patchwork, which sold at £23,484 - nearly £3,000 more than a Mercedes C180 Coupé. Why so much? It was made from cut-up bits of 15 Louis Vuitton bags and incorporated rare feathers and alligator skins. Ah, LV, we love you more when you're discreet.

2004 Mulberry Roxanne

Known to devotees as the Roxy, this baby ticked all the right it-bag boxes. It had pockets, buckles and more studs than a porn shoot at the Hefner mansion. It cost £595, but in a sea of silly bags it was seen as the epitome of grown-up practicality. Not for the first time retailers used engineered scarcity to create waiting-list hysteria in order to elevate a bag's covetability. Mulberry states that leather goods now account for more than 80 per cent of its profits, and the same goes for most labels. Bags are much easier to sell than clothes, the profit margins are huge and manufacturers don't have to bother with the tedious issue of sizing. Women have fallen hook, line and sinker for the notion that it is vital to acquire a 'wardrobe' of bags for all occasions. You may be clothed head to toe in Primark, but you'll still cut it as fashion-savvy dresser if you're shouldering the right bag.

\

2005 Chloé Paddington

Keep up, a anyone who thought Paddington was still about stations and bears in duffle coats. When Net-a-Porter went live with its first stash of Paddington bags, it sold 376 of them in 36 hours. This is the bag that took the trend for ostentatious hardware to a whole new level, as anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of a blow to the head from a wayward padlock will attest. The Paddington exemplified the girly clubbiness that comes with bag ownership. A bag speaks volumes about its owner's personality, much as your choice of comic/ popstar did when you were ten. Bags have become like grown-up girl-toys, a few stages on from Barbies and Polly Pockets. Their owners regard them more as cuddly playthings than practical receptacles. What woman hasn't whiled away the odd half hour toying idly with her beloved bag's many clasps and pockets, inhaling deeply of its leathery innards and marvelling at the sound of its satisfying clunks and snaps? Or perhaps that's just me.

2006 Marc Jacobs Stam

Named after the model and actress Jessica Stam, this has the highest profile of any of Marc Jacobs's bags, and at £760 represents a distillation of every popular it-bag detail to date, from its squashy quilted-leather body to its show-offy hardware, huge fastenings and heavy gold chain strap. Never let it be said that Marc Jacobs devotees play safe with colours: peanut and mustard are current bestselling shades. Kate Moss, Scarlett Johansson and Dita Von Teese are fans. This was the year a Mintel report stated that British women spend £350 million a year on bags, with sales up 146 per cent on the previous five years. And handbags have become the fastest growing sector of the luxury fashion market.

2007 YSL Downtown

This much-copied bucket-shaped bag is indicative of a move towards quieter, more low-key design. Not so brash and bling - unless you opt for the leopard-print version. A decade after the arrival of the Fendi Baguette, the average price of it-bags has gone from £600 to £1,000. New statistics say that the typical 30-year-old now owns 21 bags and buys a new one every three months, adding up to a total outlay of more than £8,000 over a lifetime. Tips for guilty women: do not on any account sit there pondering what you might buy for the same money - it will make you ill. Instead, divide the cost by the daily use the bag will get, and you will emerge thinking what a clever bargain you have landed. Get your orders in now for the 2008 mega-bags. Will you go for the Mulberry Poppy (satchel version, please) or YSL's Muse Two in patchwork? Choose carefully as there is a definite move towards the more well-crafted discreetly logo-ed it-bag. Shame. There's a certain giddy high to be had from announcing to the world, via a bag, just how flash you are.

_______________________

Fab Bag of the Day - Coach Quilted Hobo

If you are like us you wait until the last minute to go shopping for holiday gifts but one brand we know we can always depend on for a great gift is COACH handbags. With the numerous styles, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

COACH designer handbags genuine fur quilted monogram nylon coach 3586 medium hobo. Secure top closure. Fully lined interior. Extra pockets inside bag for incidentals and storage. Bag measures about 11 x 11 inches. The single shoulder strap is about 19 inches long. The bag is trimmed with genuine rabbit fur. The hardware is brass and there is a tiny bit of metallic gold trim along the side seams. Coach monogram C pattern quilted to nylon fabric. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic COACH handbag at 18% off retail now!

Plus to make your gift really special, add this limited edition COACH key ring which is too cute to pass up! Use coupon code OFF10 for an additional 10% off your purchase!

COACH designerr key ring 386 red present motif gift box key fob. Silver with shades of red and burgundy colored enamel. Monogram and engraving. About 3 inches long. Silver key loop is about 1.5 inches in size. Guaranteed authentic. LAST ONE. Collector's Item! You save 20%, click here to shop now!

_____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Latico Bucketbag

Comfort and function all wrapped up in a stylish profile. You can't go wrong with this LATICO handbag if you're looking for an everyday bag that provides space but isn't too heavy to around.

LATICO designer handbags black leather bucketbag. Latico handbag has goldtone hardware and feet. Latico purse with attached cosmetic bag. Style number 0049. Inside pockets will hold pencils pens and credit cards. Outside pockets. Cosmetic bag measures about height 4.5 inches width 7 inches depth .5 inches and has a zip top closure. Double handles each measure about 15.5 inches. Measurements for the tote bag are about height 15.5 inches width 17 inches depth 6 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this LATICO handbag at 19% off retail! Plus now thru Monday, receive an extra 20% off retail with coupon code TG20.

____________

Fab Bag of the Day - Kenneth Cole Bucket Bag

The holidays are the best time of year for so many reasons, parties, friends, family and of course the sales! You can find a lot of great deals like today's featured designer handbag from KENNETH COLE. Rich black leather and a great shape, this bag is a staple for any wardrobe.

KENNETH COLE designer purses black leather bucket bag. Kenneth Cole purse goldtone hardware and feet. Kenneth Cole handbag fully lined. Inside pockets. Zip top closure. Single shoulder strap measures about 22 inches long. Black leather tassle. Style number HK60234LE. Measurements are about height 13 inches width 15.5 inches depth 4.5 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this KENNETH COLE handbag at 34% off! Plus now thru Monday, take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code TG20.

___________

Happy Thanksgiving! Celebrate with savings.

Today through Monday, November 26, 2007 use coupon code TG20 for an extra 20% off your entire purchase at any of the 5 eFashionHouse.com online shops.

Receive FREE SHIPPING $200 Order
Pay NO Sales Tax

---

People StyleWatch Magazine - BEST OF THE WEB
About.com - Best CHANEL Online
FREE USA SHIPPING $200 ORDER
NO Sales Tax

Shop FIVE Stores For FASHION
http://www.eFashionHouse.com
BrandsBoutique - LuxuryVintage - ValueBAGS - ItalysOutlet - DesignersLA

__________

Fab Bag of the Day - Ugg Shearling Tote

Happy Thanksgiving! Although it's turning out to be a warm Thanksgiving for some, today's featured designer handbag gets us ready for the cold with the infamous UGG soft shearling lined with pink accents. Enjoy the holiday!

UGG AUSTRALIA designer purses tan and pink tote bag. Tan canvas with pink leather trim and double handles. Rubber feet and sides with UGG Australia written on the sides. Double zip top closure. One inside zip pocket. Double handles are 27.5 inches long each. Height 10.5 icnhes width 14 inches depth 5.5 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this UGG handbag at 33% off retail! Plus now thru Monday, receive an extra 20% off your purchase with coupon code TG20!

____________________

Cyber Monday is coming, load up the bandwith!

Come November 26th, offices across the US will struggle to get their work done. Why? Because their employees will be shopping online for deals. If you are an internet retailer then you better have your shopping carts polished and ready to rock. If you are a large e-tailer than you better have enough bandwidth to endure the crush. And if you are a Wii dealer, forget it you’re screwed.

A recent survey revealed that 46 percent of working Americans expect to shop for bargains online the Monday following Thanksgiving, while they are at work. The study, conducted by Decision Analyst , stated that although more than 11 percent said they had been caught shopping by their boss while on the job, the survey showed that the temptation to find a great bargain is so strong, they would spend nearly an hour on average shopping online this Monday instead of working coupled with the risk of being caught again.

Cyber Monday was coined to identify the online activity that happens on the Monday immediately following Black Friday, which is traditionally one of the busiest shopping days of the year for “brick and mortar” stores. Cyber Monday is considered the ceremonial kick-off of the holiday online shopping season. Like Black Friday, many e-retailers offer some of the most exceptional deals of the year on Cyber Monday.

Shopping online during the holidays is a trend that has grown beyond a novel thing to do. It is now an accepted and expected form of Christmas Shopping. With that, comes the expectation that all e-tailers deliver on their end of the deal. Online Christmas shopping allows shoppers to take advantage of broadband speeds within their offces, veritable privacy, as well as the ability to possibly surf the web for deals for extended periods of time. It also provides a way to save on purchases that would normally cost more in the brick and mortar world as well as a way to avoid crowds, traffic and long lines.

In the words of of Mr. Michael Buffer,”Are you readdddddy to rumble?”

___________________________________

Shop for designer handbags at http://www.eFashionHouse.com and use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off the entire Final Clearance section of the site. Code OFF10 is good for an extra 10% off the entire Sale section! Plus, FREE SHIPPING for $200 orders and NO SALES tax world wide! HAVE FUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN.

Fashionista designer handbag gift guide: eFashionHouse purses below retail

Dedicated to offering authentic designer handbags and accessories at below retail prices, eFashionHouse.com puts together a gift guide for handbag lovers around the globe.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB) November 21, 2007 – With the holidays upon us and Chanukah and Christmas just around the corner, eFashionHouse.com, named "Best of the Web" by People magazine StyleWatch for discount designer handbags, has made shopping for that special fashionista a little easier with the ultimate gift guide sure to please the hard-to-please without breaking the budget.

§ Chanel: For the ultimate lover of all things couture, a Chanel handbag is always the perfect gift. Although there is never a shortage of Chanel styles to add to the list, finding a Chanel handbag on sale or at a discount (an authentic Chanel that is) is not always as easy. Recently recognized by About.com as one of the top three re-sellers of Chanel handbags, eFashionHouse.com offers a large selection of Chanel handbags and accessories at up to 50% off.

§ Chloé: A staple of every fashionista’s closet, Chloé quickly became a favorite among magazine editors and fashion mavens because of the brands supple leathers and one-of-the kind looks. But grabbing one of the most sought after handbags doesn’t come cheap unless you know where to look. eFashionHouse.com’s entire selection of authentic Chloé handbags has been deeply discounted which makes owning one of these prized beauties a little more attainable.

§ Christian Dior: Thanks to “Sex in the City” and the infamous “saddlebag,” Christian Dior became a household name and with introduction of the Dior Lady Bag, ladies are once again clamoring to get their hands on the latest Dior craze. At 50% off, eFashionHouse.com means you don’t have pine after the Dior Lady for too long.

§ Prada and Gucci: Always synonymous with fine Italian craftsmanship and famous Italian fashion, Prada and Gucci continue to maintain their presence as two of the top fashion houses in the world. With a huge selection to choose from and up to 60% off, eFashionHouse.com turns adding another Prada and Gucci handbag to your collection from a must-do to an already done.

In addition to Chanel, Chloé, Christian Dior, Prada and Gucci, the five stores at eFashionHouse.com have hundreds of today’s top name designers, including Tods, Coach, Yves Saint Laurent, Fendi, Etro, Nancy Gonzalez, Balenciaga, Hogan, Hermes, Mulberry and more, all available at below retail prices and all 100% guaranteed authentic. And for a limited time use the following coupon codes upon check out to receive additional discounts on every purchase for total savings of up to 90% off retail!

• Use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off FINAL CLEARANCE items.
• Use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off all SALE items.
• Plus, Free Fedex to Lower 48 States $200 orders & NO Sales Tax World Wide!

About eFashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. EFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. EfashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer & Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She’s been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s.

Fab Bag of the Day - Lesportsac Sequined Evening Bag

Most of you are probably thinking about how good Thanksgiving dinner will be tomorrow night so I wanted to kick off the holiday with something that is sure to celebrate. Zebra print sequined, need I say more? Happy Thanksgiving!

LESPORTSAC designer handbag sequined evening bag. Black and clear sequined evening bag with black leather trim. Made of black ripstop material. Pale lavender lining. One inside pocket. Zip top closure. Silver hardware. Single handle is 13.5 inches long. Height 6 inches width 12 inches depth .5 inches. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Limited supply.

Click here to get this LESPORTSAC evening bag for only $99 now!

Plus take an extra 20% off your entire purchase with coupon code OFF20.

_______________

Holiday Shopping Discount Coupons Online - Save this post.

Holiday Shopping Discount Coupons Online - Save this post.

Great Savings on designer fashion accessories. All the major brands discounted 30% to 90% off retail.

Click here for the an A-Z Designers Index: Gucci, Fendi, Tods, Ferragamo, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Dior, Etro, Prada, Cole Haan, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Dooney & Bourke, Coach and many, many more of your favorite fashion designers. All guaranteed authentic or your money back.

eFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch Magazine and named the top of three retailers for authentic Chanel by About.com.

Shop eFashionHouse.com - FIVE fashion online stores:
BrandsBoutique
ValueBags
LuxuryVintage
DesignersLA
ItalysOutlet

Save these Coupons - valid today through December 22, 2007.

Use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off your entire FINAL CLEARANCE purchase.
Use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off your entire SALE SECTION purchase.
FREE Fedex USA Shipping $200 orders expires December 17, 2007 (no coupon needed)
NO Sales Tax World Wide (no coupon needed)

Register to receive Free Gift News at http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and be the frist to receive additional discounts by email throughout the Holidays.

Why Women Are Still Crazy For High End Burberry Handbags

by Gregg Hall

The same company that invented the Burberry trench coat, and the fabric called Gabardine, is still inventing today. When we think about the great inventions in the world we don't normally think about people who make clothing and fashion accessories, but the truth is that a lot of thought goes into designing new fashions that serve new and special purposes. Where would we be without the great innovations of designers who have created new types of clothing and accessories that make our life so much easier?

The Burberry Prosum, Heritage, Nova, Zip Hobo and Baby Messenger bags are new lines that have come out of this company recently, and among those styles there are many new innovations that make a purse much easier to work with. Special kinds of trim, flaps, snap fasteners that make it easy to open and close the bag with one hand and many other innovations are included in this company's accomplishments.

Burberry bags come in several colors including tan, beige, white, wine, alligator, light brown, cognac, and black. The special colors make interesting combinations as accessories for outfits, and a wide variety of colors make these bags more useful for the consumer.

PVC, leather, brass, canvass, nickel, alligator and other materials are all incorporated into the manufacture of Burberry hand bags. Pockets, trim, straps, hidden pockets, fittings, buckles, linings, handles, keys, locks, buckles, zippers and piping are all some of the interesting parts that you might never expect to find in a purse, but which can be found on some of the models made by Burberry.

Designers put a lot of thought into how they make their bags, and the industry is very competitive. Each part of the bag receives special care and attention, and experts think about ways to make them better. Every model makes improvements on models that existed before as the designers try to make their purses better and better.

If the bags that are on the market at any moment cause trouble for the people that use them, the innovators get to work thinking about ways to avoid those problems in the next design. If they tear or break easily, or if they are hard to open, or if the items inside fall out easily, these are problems that the designers need to consider as they plan the next model. They look at the processes where the old bags fail, and they find new ways to make bags so that these problems cannot occur.

The amount of time and energy that goes into making these bags is also reflected in the price. How do you feel about paying five hundred to a thousand dollars for a single designer bag? The materials that go into the manufacture of these bags are the best, and they are expensive on their own. Above this, designers must be paid top dollar by the company for their service, and for all the thought and concentration that goes into finding new designs. In the end this translates to a very high cost for consumer, and it is without a doubt that consumers find these high priced bags well worth the cost.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida.

Fab Bag of the Day - United Colors of Benetton Tote

It's almost one of our favorite holidays, Thanksgiving of course, and we wanted to give thanks for affordable tote bags that come in an array of colors and can be used for almost every occasion. Like today's featured designer handbag from UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON that sells for only $29!

UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON designer handbags cotton tote. Designer handbag comes in two colors army green with orange inside lining and orange writing on the outside front of the bag and orange with army green inside lining with army green writing on the outside front of the bag. One inside zip pocket. Double shoulder straps are each 20.5 inches long. Measurements are height 11.5 inches width 16 inches depth 5.25 inches. Comes with sleeper bag. Guaranteed authentic.

Click here to shop this UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON tote now!

_________________

Made in China: Designer handbag fashion totally misunderstood

By Anna Miller, Ecommerce Entrepreneur & Internet Pioneer

CONTAINERS READY FOR SHIPMENT from the port of Shenzhen.
Photo taken from an article written by Michael Christopher Brown.

Wow! What’s all this garble about “everything” made in China being counterfeit or fake? Do people understand the design and manufacturing process? Or, are they just determined to squabble about one of the manufacturing industry’s greatest resources?

True, there’s been a lot of media about children’s toys being manufactured poorly. Shame on China for the mess they’ve created. They’ll fix the problem, or they’ll lose business. We all learn from our mistakes, right? Or, at least the smart folks learn. And, let’s face it, China is no dummy!

China has been manufacturing most of the clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories stocked in all the major department stores throughout the world for many, many years. And, this is not going to fade or go away. China offers low-cost labor for low-end to high-end designer handbags, clothing and just about anything around the house.

Most people don’t understand the truth about the Made in China label. China has been producing most of the Designer Merchandise sold in the USA for very long time. Why? Because the price to manufacture in China keeps prices as low as possible for consumers. People complain about the high price tags on designer handbags, clothing, shoes, and accessories. If the same item made in China was made in the USA or Europe the prices would be doubled or tripled.

If the Hermes Birkin bag was assembled by hand in China instead of France, the price would not be $7,000.00 each. If Italian leather was sent to China for the assembly of Prada handbags, the prices would not be $3,000.00 each. Please put things into perspective.

Burberry’s new management decided to use China for some of its assembled manufacturing needs and people went crazy. The thought of using a designer handbag made in China is misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misguided. The product made in China consists of the same quality of fabric as if it were made in the USA, France, England or Italy. The only difference is the designer item was assembled in China, or any other country offering a cheaper assembly manufacturing process.

Most of the high-end Designers buy fabrics, leathers, and materials from the USA or Europe, pay a premium price for the high-quality fabrication, and then negotiate manufacturing in China. The materials and specifications are sent to China and made. Representatives from each of the Design Houses travel to China or other manufacturing countries to supervise the process. The finished products are shipped to the USA and other parts of the world for sale. It’s a process kept sweet and as simple as possible. It creates jobs and produces a global economy.

Most consumers don’t know the designer manufacturing process or understand the details. They see a Made in China label and assume it’s a counterfeit item or fake. In reality, it’s not. It’s a moderately priced item made in a country which has been stereo-typed. And, we can’t blame the consumer because most of the junk, counterfeit and fake merchandise bearing the trademarks of others are made in China. Hopefully, the USA Customs Department working closely with the fashion industry will help end importing counterfeit goods.

There are many countries available the fashion designers use to outsource labor. The high-end leather designer handbags with high-ticket price tags are made in the USA, Italy, London and France. The lower cost designer products are made elsewhere. Most designers offer collections every season which provide both high-end and lower priced products. For example, Ralph Lauren has five price and fabrication determined collections: RL Classics, Collection, Black Label, Blue Label and Lauren. Plus, many of the designers produce a separate collection for outlet stores and discount stores like Marshalls, TJ Max, Target, Walmart, etc.

Some of the countries are more commonly used than others, and nonetheless they are countries with capabilities and low-cost labor. Some of these countries include, and are not limited to China, Turkey, Mexico, Romania, India and Portugal.

Fashion designers who make designer handbags, designer wallets, designer scarves, designer clothing, hats, shoes, etc. use these countries because they can sell their products at affordable prices. Some of the fashion designers include, and are not limited to Coach, Burberry, Liz Claiborne, Robert Rodriquez, Max Studio, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke, Juicy Couture, Donna Karan, Anne Klein, Brighton, and many, many others.

Just because an item is Made in China, it does not constitute fake or counterfeit. Let’s get this straight and communicated clearly. The reason the item was made in China is because at that point in time, the designer’s manufacturing team decided it was the best business decision to make for a cost-effective distribution of its product and collection.

The next time you see a Made in China label on a designer handbag or accessory, and you purchased it from a reputable source, thank your lucky stars for the bargain price you paid. If you have any doubt, take the item to the designer’s boutique for authentication and peace of mind. Don’t assume just because it’s Made in China it’s a fake. Do you know what “to assume” does? It makes an ass out of u and me! So, please don’t ASS U ME.

About the Author:Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She owns and operates the internet website http://www.efashionhouse.com/. EfashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch Magazine and recently, About.com recognized eFashionHouse.com as the top of three sources for authentic Chanel at below retail prices. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer and Ecommerce Entrepreneur. Anna has been buying and reselling authentic designer fashion accessories online since the early 1990’s. The Corporation’s vision and mission is “to offer authentic designer handbags, purses and accessories below the cost of retail.”

You can visit the i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. fashion blogs at the following locations:

• http://www.i-globalmall.com/
• http://www.valuebags.com/
• http://www.brandsboutique.com/
• http://www.designersla.com/
• http://www.luxuryvintage.com/
• http://www.shoppingbrokers.com/
  

Fab Bag of the Day - Michael Kors Cheetah Print Hobo

Although the animal print trend goes in and out, there's a reason why its a mainstay - pure lux. Like today's featured designer handbag from MICHAEL KORS which enhances the cheetah print with gold and leather adornments. A nice and classy way to play out your wild side.

MICHAEL KORS designer handbags cheetah medium chain hobo. Measures about 10 W x 8 H with a 4 inch depth. The leather and chain strap measures about 15 inches long with a 8.5 inch drop. Genuine calf hair with cheetah design and brown leather. Brass hardware. Zip top closure. Fully lined interior with one open pocket. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop MICHAEL KORS handbags at up to 50% off retail!

____________

eFashionHouse.com Designer Handbag Discounter Saves Shoppers Money

Desert Hot Springs, CA (PRWEB) November 14, 2007 -- Dedicated to offering its customers authentic designer handbags and accessories at discount prices, eFashionHouse.com, named "Best of the Web" by People Magazine StyleWatch for discount designer handbags, offers its valued clientele the chance to receive additional savings through Free Gift News, an email savings program which delivers information about weekly sales and coupon codes to subscribers' emails.

Customers who subscribe to Free Gift News will receive exclusive savings and coupon codes. Each week eFashionHouse.com sends a Free Gift News email announcing special savings and coupon codes to use for an additional 20-30% off eFashionHouse.com's deeply discounted merchandise.

"We are constantly looking for ways to pass the savings onto our customers, which is exactly what Free Gift News does. Subscribers receive additional discounts on their order just by signing up for Free Gift News," says Anna Miller, CEO of eFashionHouse.com. "Each week we feature additional sales on featured brands, as well as holiday promotions and secret sales."Due to recent updates to the eFashionHouse.com network, Free Gift News was recently unavailable. It's now back and subscribers will receive coupon codes that equal additional savings toward featured designers like Gucci, Prada, Chloe, Tods, Marc Jacobs, Coach, Christian Dior, Fendi and many more of today's brands often hard to find on sale, let alone 50%, 60% or more off retail.

In order to receive the additional savings featured in the Free Gift News, visit http://www.efashionhouse.com and subscribe by entering a designated email address. You'll start receiving savings instantly and can unsubscribe at any time. Free Gift News is free and everyone with an email address is eligible.

As an added incentive for the holidays, eFashionHouse.com is offering free shipping with a minimum purchase and shoppers pay no sales tax world wide.

About eFashionHouse.com:

Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. EFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. EFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer & Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She's been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s.

Fab Bag of the day - Coach Lozenge Canvas Tote

Although COACH handbags offer a wide selection of styles and patterns, today's featured designer handbag, the COACH Lozenge tote, is a unique twist to its renowned logo. We love the gorgeous shade of blue mixed with cream and are entranced by the clever use of the logo.

COACH designer handbags signature lozenge coach name in blue on white canvas large tote. Style 10836. Measures approximately 14 W (at top of bag) x 12 H with a 5.5 inch depth. Blue leather straps measure about 20 inches long with a 9 inch drop. Brass hardware. Smooth blue leather bottom. Top closure has a dog leash clasp at top center of bag. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket with the leather Coach ID and serial number and multiple open pockets. Leather ID tag attached to top of bag along with leather Coach fob and Coach brass medallion. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this authentic COACH handbag at 24% off retail!

_____________

Fab Bag of the Day - MARC JACOBS canvas tote bag

We are all about the bargains which is why we love today's featured designer handbag from MARC BY MARC JACOBS. Not only does this tote bag come in an array of colors but we it combines functionality with comfort, two things we love even more.

JACOBS BY MARC JACOBS tote bag designer handbags all cotton canvas tote bag. Printed on the front of the bag it says JACOBS by Marc Jacobs for Marc by Marc Jacobs in collaboration with Marc Jacobs for Marc by Marc Jacobs. The bag is constructed of washed cotton canvas. Item is washable. Purse measures about 10 x 12 x 4 inches. Double straps are about 20 inches each with about a 9 inch drop. Soft construction. Guaranteed authentic. Comes in 15 colors!

Click here to shop this MARC JACOBS tote bag for only $29, plus use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off!

_______________

Fab Bag of the Day - BCBG Leather Satchel

Although we can appreciate all types of handbag designs, we have to say that we are drawn to satchels right now. Perhaps its the functional shape coupled with a slightly funky twist but this style is always one we admire. Like today's featured designer handbag from BCBG, this is one satchel that can go from the office to a night out effortlessly and stylishly.

BCBG designer handbags soft tan leather satchel. Extremely soft tan leather with a flap over weighted ring and magnetic snap top closure. Measures approximately 15 W x 5 H with a 5 inch depth. The metal and leather strap measures about 18 inches with a 10 inch drop. Fully lined interior with one zippered pocket and multiple open pockets. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

Click here to shop this BCBG satchel at 27% off retail!

_______________

Leiber bag of choice for rich, survey says

Belinda Goldsmith, Reuters

Hand-made accessory judged a 'work of art' by industry experts

Put the Kelly or Birkin handbags back on the shelf. The bag considered the most prestigious amongst the wealthy at the moment is a bejeweled creation from Leiber.

With handbags evolving from being a useful accessory to a coveted collectible in recent years, the independent New York-based Luxury Institute polled 783 wealthy U.S. consumers to find the "It" bag -- and American luxury brand Leiber won.

Hand-made crystal evenings bags by Leiber, a company founded by Hungary-born Judith Leiber in 1963, have earned the company international fame and are now part of collections in various museums in the United States and Britain. "The Leiber bags are really a work of art rather than just an accessory," Luxury Institute Chief Executive Milton Pedraza told Reuters.

"These days women buy many, many more bags than they used to for special occasions and there is no question that it is perceived to be different -- much more unique and exclusive." He said Leiber's handcrafted creations were praised as perfect show-stopping accessories by the online survey's respondents who had an average income of $305,000 and average net worth of $2.2 million.

On Leiber's website, its day bag is priced at $5,595 while its evening bags range from $1,955 for a clutch bag to $4,955 for a bag shaped like a rattlesnake. Handbags by Hermes -- which makes the Kelly and the Birkin bags -- and Prada were ranked second and third, respectively. "The Hermes is gorgeous but more of an everyday bag," said Pedraza. Handbags have taken on a new life in recent years as a status accessory.

According to Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst for The NPD Group, the number of consumers buying luxury handbags priced at $400 or more has doubled in the last five years. Demand for a status bag has become so hot that several website have emerged where people can borrow luxury handbags. One such site, www.bagborroworsteal.com, founded in 2004, rents out bags from over 100 designers from $40 a week. "We are giving women easy access to a whole new level of luxury," said spokeswoman Patricia Hambrick in a statement.

Pedraza did not expect the demand for luxury bags to fade. "If anything accessories will become more important. There is a growing number of millionaires and even in the middle class income levels people want to become more connoisseurs with regards to their accessories," he said.

The other 23 handbag brands to make the elite ranks, listed alphabetically, were Bottega Veneta, Brighton, Burberry, Chanel, Chloe, Coach, Cole Haan, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Dooney & Bourke, Fendi, Ferragamo, Furla, Gucci, Kate Spade, L.A.M.B., Longchamp, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Miu Miu, Ralph Lauren, and Yves Saint Laurent.

________________

Shopping Online for the Best Discount Designer Handbags

from Designer Handbags: Simply Marvelous Beauty

Want to to know how & where to shop for the best discount designer handbags?


There are many great designer handbags on the market of course, but one of their few drawbacks is the fact that they are so expensive that at times no money will be left over to put in that great new purse. Finding the best discounted designer handbags can give you the best of both worlds and help you get the great purse you need and still have some money left over to put in that great new handbag.


Finding the best discounted designer handbags is not always easy of course, and it is important to shop around for the best possible combination of quality, style and value. There are many different types of great handbags on the market, from value brands and low cost brands to the most expensive designer handbags on the market. Choosing the best designer handbags at the best price is one of the most important decisions any shopper can make.


Every woman knows, after all, that a handbag or purse is much more than just a place to keep a couple of extra dollars. A purse or handbag is as much a fashion statement as it is a practical item, and it is important to consider both practical matters and stylistic ones.


When it comes to practical considerations for discounted designer handbags, a number of things come to mind. One of the most important things to consider is the size of the bag. Handbags these days come in a wide range of styles, from the tiniest evening bags and clutches to the largest messenger bags and hobo styles. Most women, of course, will purchase a number of different purses and handbags for a number of different purposes, making it even more important to get the best price on the bags you buy.


In addition to the right style, it is important to get the best style as well. There are countless different kinds of fabrics, colors, textures and styles of discounted designer handbags, and these handbags are available in a wide variety of fabrics and leathers as well. It is important to choose a style that best suits your own needs, and to consider the use of the handbag as you shop.


For instance, many women will choose a discount designer handbag with a classic style and neutral color for everyday use, and choose more unique colors and styles for special occasions. It is important to consider your own taste and style, as well as the current trends, when deciding on the perfect type of purse for your own needs.


Finding the best combination of style, price and value is not always easy, but handbags are among the most important of all fashion accessories. Knowing where to shop for the best designer purses, and where to get the best prices on those purses, will allow you to get the best possible value for your money, while still leaving plenty of money to put in that great new handbag. After all, while everyone loves the beauty and style of a great designer bag, it is always important to get the best price on the products you need.

__________________________________