May 25, 05 | 5:00 am
Bags for Bubkes!
Like many people with XX Chromosomes, I love handbags. I didn't always adore them like I do now; it was more of a slow realization that adding a nice handbag was essentially completing my outfit. As drab as I might feel in a simple black dress, I can add a bright turquoise or red handbag and it perks me right up. I don't think that one has to carry a designer bag to be fashionable, but I think a bag of nice quality and shape reflects good taste and style on its owner.
The most frustrating part about shopping for a nice designer handbag is the cost, so I have included some great online sites with authentic handbags for a fraction of the price.
SmartBargains.com is an excellent source for a variety of brand new Designer handbags. They are affiliated with the famous Loehmann's, so Smart Bargains is basically a click-to-shop Loehmann's, without fighting with another shopper for the left pair of a Gucci heel.
This pink Prada bag is a great starter bag at $99.99, regularly $210:
or this Kate Spade Tote, $169.99 regularly $275:
You can never go wrong with Bluefly.com Their customer service is good and they ship fast. Best of all, their selection is great.
Emillio Pucci Tote Bag $279, regularly $375:
This Prada Pouchette $279 is regularly $425:
As a young child I have found memories of sitting next to my Grandmother's Louis Vuitton and tracing the logos with my small fingers. While some people may not be a fan of the logos, I still enjoy the very classic appearance of a Vuitton piece. Ebay can sometimes be a nice option if you are familiar enough with the brand, but my favorite site is Poupette's Auction site, http://poupetteluxe-auctions.com. Poupette closely monitors all bags on the site and maintains a strict process in order for sellers to sell on the site. You can pick up an authentic gently used Vuitton Clutch like this one for a Buy-it-Now of $259!
Poupette also carries other used designer pieces from Gucci to Hermes.
Do you want to try out a bag before buying it? For as little as $19.95, Bag Borrow or Steal allows its members to rent designer bags with the option to purchase. Choose from brands like Kate Spade, Michael Kors and Coach. This site will also be renting out jewelry to its members soon.
Elana is a Jewelry Designer and Founder of FutureFashionista.com, an online Jewelry website featuring her handmade solid gold designs. Her jewelry has become extremely popular with the trendsetting crowds and famous fashionistas.
