Thursday, July 31, 2008
Fade to Hot
Ombre, an effect where one color bleeds into another, has flowed onto some of the most eye-catching pieces of the season.
The term, which means shadow in French, is also called dip-dyed and degraded. Sometimes ombre goes from the darkest to the lightest shade of a hue. Also, the print can seamlessly combine different colors for a rainbow take. Colors can be of-the-moment citrus brights or laid back neutrals, such as black to gray or brown to tan.
Some people confuse ombre with its close cousin, tie-dye. In general, ombre is more subtle, more sophisticated than tie-dye, and less kaleidoscopic.
However, both prints are popular right now, thanks to the tribal beat that has a band of designers playing ethnic, global music. Players include Diane Von Furstenberg, Alexander McQueen, Badgley, Mischka, Chloe, Giles and Adam & Eve.
Many fashion pundits say this ombre homage began with the fall 2007 collection by Miuccia Prada, which included degraded handbags and other accessories.
This time around, dresses seem to be the preferred canvas for the latest ombre works of art. Some of the most beautiful are in a long Grecian goddess silhouette and done in a luxurious fabric, such as silk chiffon, which gives the frocks movement, creating billows of color. Talk about a statement piece. Ombre becomes more youthful when seen on a minidress, and it has a more casual feeling in a cotton sundress.
Ombre also works on separates. Look for a variety of tops from simple tees to figure-friendly tunics; great with a pair of jeans. The print paints skirts, too. It translates well on popular pleated full skirts.
Following Prada's lead, designers have created some fun ombre handbags, which go from chic clutches and sassy satchels to Titanic totes.
Another natural for ombre is the shoe. Kicks done in patent really shine.
Ombre options
* Make sure the darkest part of the fade is on the largest body part. For example, busty girls should go for an ombre dress that's darker on top.
* Only wear one ombre piece at a time. Wearing a dress, handbag and shoes done in the pattern can look cartoonish.
* Pair an ombre piece with neutral clothing and accessories in shades of brown and off-white for a safari flavor.
* Complement subtle gradations with metallic accessories.
* Incorporate jewelry in shades of the fading colors into the outfit.
Source: About.com and DivaVillage.com
Labels: brands boutique, designer brands, designer fashion brands, designer handbags
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
What's in a name? The Brand Snobbery Syndrome

Priya Tuli
"So how come don't you have one of those handbags with the little monograms marching all over them that everyone seems to favor these days?" Nothing escapes my mother's right eye. She lost peripheral vision in the left eye many years ago, so one would think she might miss catching at least some of life's smaller details. Not a chance! She's talking about the branded `designer' handbags that with-it women have been slinging nonchalantly over their shoulders for years. You know the ones, with the C(hanel), D(ior), P(rada), D&G or LV initials on them.
"Nope, I've never aspired to own one, for two compelling reasons: one, why would I want to use a bag with somebody else's initials on it? And two, why would I want to pay some ridiculously inflated amount for their initials?" But my mother's not satisfied with my response; she's in bear-baiting mode, and would like to hear me growl. "A branded product is a branded product, right? You're so finicky about your brand of coffee, how is that any different from people being finicky about their brand of handbag?" she prods.
This is a trick question. I pause for a long moment before I respond, thinking, ohhh no, you don't want to start me off, Mum! "Ohhh yes, I do!" she shoots back, reading my mind like a pro. Okay, then, here we go. Yes, I'm a brand-snob too, particularly about consumables like the coffee I prefer or the shower gel I use or the mineral/fire water I drink, that sort of thing. But the whole `brand-name accessory' concept? Defeats me!
"You choose a brand, any brand, because you identify with it, you like what it stands for. The taste, smell, cut, values, standards, whatever. My local brand of coffee is top quality. It's locally produced, roasted and packaged; I buy my freshly ground weekly supply, sniff it all the way home, and store it in the fridge so it retains its aroma. (Yes, I'm a borderline fanatic about my coffee.)
"I refuse to pay outlandish sums of money for some trumped-up global brand that buys beans on the cheap from subsistence-level coffee farmers in Africa and Latin America -- and then charges a premium for "value added" (snob-value added?) lattes and cappuccinos, in throw-away containers with a fancy logo, that everybody wants to be seen drinking from.
I mean hello, people, Java is famous the world over for its coffee! When in Java, drink Java! "As for handbags, if it were just quality that people were after, they wouldn't give two hoots who else saw the initials. Branded accessories are designed so everyone can see exactly how much you paid for them. "Besides, how about you? Why don't you have one of those fancy branded bags yourself? You've been using that grotty old hand-woven jute bag since the year dot, and you won't even let me replace it for you. It's so full of holes your keys are going to drop out one of these days!"
My long-winded monologue is going to take her a while to counter, so I wander off in search of a caffeine hit while she gathers her thoughts for another assault. I jump out of my skin, nearly smashing my favorite Bodum coffee plunger; she has stealthily followed me into the kitchen and is waggling her index finger at me, an old habit that triggers my Pavlovian "garrrh" reflex even now. "I'll have you know I bought that jute bag six years ago, from the artisan's bazaar, so the money went to the person who made it, and not some sticky-fingered middleman. It might look a bit shabby, but those holes are the weave pattern and it still has some good years left in it, just like I do!"
My mother has finally lost it. She is now comparing herself to an old jute bag full of holes? I refrain from following that train of thought through to its logical conclusion, for obvious reasons. Here, I bought you one as well. They're useful when you go supermarketing, so you can tell them you don't want those infernal plastic bags," she says. "Oh, nice! So why didn't you junk yours and buy yourself a new one, too?" "I gave them all away, this is the last one and it's for you."
"You drew my initials on it?!" "With permanent marker. You like them?" "Yes, particularly the wonky twisted ones!" "I thought you would."
I look at her. I look at the bag. "Don't you start!" she warns, waggling her index finger at me again. "Ha!", I said, "your old bag just gave me a brand new bag!" And we're both hooting with laughter. As I've just shared an inside joke, I might have to pay the price in blood later. Anybody out there Group B+, in case I run short?
Labels: branded products, designer brands, designer fashion brands, handbags
Monday, March 10, 2008
Paris prefers a little discretion


two pocket designer purse.
Opulence is out and understated sophistication is back on show, says Andrea Byrne
Paris prêt-à-porter season was the final stop on the international catwalk circuit. The city closes proceedings because she is the grande dame of fashion, garnering the most excitement and invariably providing the finest moments.
Though an impressive array of A-listers were there (Julianne Moore at Yves Saint Laurent, Twiggy at Stella McCartney, Dita Von Teese at Louis Vuitton, and a heavily pregnant Jessica Alba at Lanvin), the French capital doesn't rely on their presence for exposure and column inches. It's much more about the clothes. So much so, that while many important American fashion buyers chose to snub London, they turned up to Paris in their droves.
However, like other fashion weeks, PFW was accused (with a few exceptions) of designing clothes and looks that were reflective of the gloomy period that is forecast, by shunning opulence and opting instead for more discreet sophistication. Yes, Paris was uncharacteristically more wearable and, yes, minimalism was the byword, but even so it did give us some awe-inspiring moments. Who provided them? For me it was Alexander McQueen, Alber Elbaz for Lanvin and Yohji Yamamoto. Before his show, McQueen announced that his company had reported considerable profits. Admittedly, much of this success stems from his hugely successful accessories business, which accounts for more than 30 per cent of sales. But judging by his latest collection, further financial gains look to be on the cards. Taking inspiration from history, most notably past queens of England, McQueen didn't do it in the same satirical, garish and rather unsightly way that D&G did in Milan, but, instead, focused on regal elegance.
The jacket was the main focus and big talking point of Yohji's collection -- presenting itself in every conceivable shape and fabric, although most notable and nicely in leather. It had a distinct equestrian feel to it. But what I loved most was the extent to which it was different, original and memorable. Similarly, fellow Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo, the brains behind Comme des Garcons, provided something startlingly interesting and different.
There was a lot of austerity in the Parisian colour palette, where dark tones (black, charcoal and midnight blue) reigned supreme. However, it was interspersed with flashes of pillar red, soft peach and canary yellow.
Second to Chanel, Lanvin is my favourite label. It's practical, wearable, luxurious and beautiful. Though largely black, the collection was anything but trite and predictable. Ribbons were everywhere, heavy embellishment was key and dangerously sexy one-shoulder dresses went down a storm. The shy and limelight-shunning Elbaz rightfully earned a standing ovation from the crowd. Lanvin championed the return of the LBD for next season -- as did Givenchy and Balenciaga -- though the latter did it in a way that was a little too futuristic and wayward for my liking.
Much like the celebrities at the Oscars, there was a lot of red in Galliano's collection, with undertones of both Sixties and Seventies styles, particularly in the prints. All-in-all, it was a very polished and wearable collection.
Ireland's own Sharon Wauchob presented a collection that possessed an edgy feel while maintaining her usual floaty, ethereal femininity. She embraced what looks to be one of the biggest trends for next Autumn/Winter -- ruffles.
All eyes were on Valentino's successor, Alessandra Facchinetti, to see if she could continue the success of the brand. She didn't disappoint. Bravely and rather commendably, she didn't try to emulate what Valentino did best but instead did her own thing.
After a disastrous showing of his eponymous label at New York Fashion Week, Marc Jacobs redeemed himself with his collection for Louis Vuitton. The coat was the key piece -- in soft, muted creams and beiges. It was grown up and timeless. So, with the six-week fashion show cycle now over, what will we all be wearing next season? The focus is still very much on the waistline; therefore, a belt, particularly of the skinny kind, is a must. Ruffles were everywhere -- from tops to dresses to shoes. Lace and tulle were also ubiquitous. Trousers will have a more masculine feel in their tailoring, the waistline will go higher, the length longer and the leg wider. The skirt is voluminous, the sleeve is billowing. The coat is cocooned in shape. The dress will vary in hemline (maxi to knee-length) and in style (one-shoulder dresses to tiered).
Bags, which have been the ultimate accessory for countless seasons, will take a back seat for Autumn/ Winter, replaced instead by footwear (chunky platforms) and costume jewellery. Think cuffs (Lanvin), layered necklaces (Givenchy), tiered pearls (Chanel), brooches (Lacroix) and chandelier earrings (Dior).
Anti-fur campaigners have tried everything to turn people against fur, by sexing up their image and getting various celebs on board to denounce the wearing of pelts, but despite their best efforts, they just can't quash its allure. In fact, this winter, fur promises to be bigger than it has been in several years -- with John Paul Gaultier championing its cause more than anyone else. He went so far as to send models out with full-faced foxes on their heads -- which is about the only trend I won't be embracing next season.
Labels: authentic designer handbags, designer accessories, designer brands
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The Beautiful Louis Vuitton Handbag
by Mike Yeager
The Louis Vuitton handbag is a work of art. Each handbag is unique in its design. The company specializes in using top quality leather and treating it so that it is soft and luxurious. While you can find just about any type of handbag through this designer, the styles, colors, and textures are of the highest quality. They offer evening bags, clutch bags, all the way to luggage items of all sizes and shapes. The Louis Vuitton handbag is just one of many choices the consumer has.
By far the most convenient way to purchase a Louis Vuitton handbag is to find them on the Internet. Of course they are often sold in top department stores and fashion boutiques all over the world, but for the convenience of shopping at home, the web-site allows the best option. Also, just about all items can be found online while in a department store only the latest collections may be available. Visiting the web-site will give the consumer many options to choose from and the convenience of purchasing from home.
If a consumer is looking for high quality, high fashion and style handbags, checking out the Louis Vuitton Handbag line is a great place to start. Finding the right Louis Vuitton handbag among thousands to choose from will be difficult, but well worth the look.
Labels: authentic designer handbags, designer brands, designer fashion brands, designer handbags, designer purses, louis vuitton handbags
Designer Brands - Online Shopping Bargain
Click here to shop this authentic CHRISTIAN DIOR saddlebag at 50% below retail price! Plus now thru tomorrow take an extra 20% your entire purchase with coupon code TG20.
Labels: authentic designer handbags, christian dior, designer brands, designer purses, dior handbags
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Designer Handbags a big hit for holiday shoppers again this year!

Price has also diminished in importance for shoppers deciding where to shop. In 2005 some 37 per cent of consumers listed price as a main reason for choosing a particular store; last year it fell to 23 per cent and fell further to 20 per cent this year. “Value for money” has declined as a reason over the same period, while “convenience” has risen from 50 per cent of shoppers in 2005 to 62 per cent this year – evidence, according to Deloitte, of our so-called “cash rich, time poor” society.
Tim How, chief executive, noted “challenging” trading conditions, but said customers’ thirst for fine wines was continuing unabated. “Last week somebody in our Mayfair store bought an Imperial [6 litres] Latour 88” for £2,500, he said. If growing expectations of a serious slowdown do become reality, retailers are aiming to supply so-called luxury products for less.
Asda intends to make “the inaffordable affordable” by selling cheap truffles grown on a farm in Pontefract, Yorkshire. The only catch is that there will be a three- to five-year wait before the truffles will be ready to be harvested. In the meantime, luxury lovers who have fallen on hard times can rely on Lidl, the German discount chain that has been supplying cheap food to the UK since 1994. For a second Christmas, Lidl’s lobsters are selling for less than £5 each.
Labels: authentic designer handbags, chanel fashion, chanel handbags, chanel jewelry, chanel purses, designer brands, designer handbags, discount designer purses, discount luxury, gift ideas, holiday shopping
A Designer Handbag Shows Good Taste

Prada, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Dior, and Dooney and Burke are just a few of the quality handbags that have soared in popularity in the past few years. These designer handbags are in fact so popular that used handbags go for a pretty penny when sold through online auctions. Many who buy these handbags however still consider them to be bargains, especially when compared to the prices of new designer handbags.
Many ladies who are looking for bargains in the way of designer handbags check out various web sites including online auctions. Others find that half the fun of purchasing a bargain handbag lies in finding it in person in the physical world, leading them to haunt thrift stores, flea markets and charity auctions in their home towns. Whatever the source, however, finding a good deal on a handbag is certainly on the mind of many women.
Of course, most of these women would prefer to pick up a new designer handbag for the special occasion mentioned. And best of all, many of them would simply like to receive one as a gift. If you have a special woman in your life, and you'd like to find a gift for her that will truly make a lasting and very positive impression, then consider a handbag, as a nice designer handbag can be the perfect give to show that you care.
Labels: authentic designer handbags, d, designer brands, designer handbags, discount designer handbags, discount designer purses
Monday, November 12, 2007
About.com recognizes eFashionHouse as the top of three online retailers of authentic Chanel

Labels: authentic designer handbags, chanel fashion, chanel handbags, chanel purses, designer brands, discount designer handbags, discount designer purses
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Designer Brands - Online Shopping Bargain





CHRISTIAN DIOR designer handbag lady dior micro ld tan designer purse. Measures approximately 7 inch length by 6 inch tall with a 3 inch depth. Pearlized leather handles measure about 10 inches. Detachable strap measures about 40 inches and is about .25 inches wide. Polished gold hardware with the CD logo embossed on strap holders. DIOR letter charms attached to strap ring. Inside flap closure. Interior is fully lined in matching color with one zippered pocket. Base has 4 gold feet. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag. Limited Supply. SAMPLE SALE ITEM - SKU : B07CD05B97TNF
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Labels: brands boutique, designer brands, designer handbags, discount designer handbags, discount designer purses, efashionhouse, handbags
Latest Hottest Brands in Designer Handbags

By William Brister The popularity, accessibility and the increasing incomes of the people have led to a new surge of trendsetters widening greatly the horizons of the fashion world. They have given rise to ostentatious and designer clothing, designer accessories and designer handbags that serve to perfectly complement the fashion conscious generation. Gucci, Christian Dior, D&G, Louis Vuitton, Chanel are only some of the preferred designers world over that create exquisitely crafted purses and handbags.
For the greatest pleasure of their clients, those original brands are always coming up with new purses and handbags, with newer models always more desirable that the previous ones. No matter how much you desired the previous designer handbag you bought, their next designer handbag promises to be more even more desirable!
Designer handbags by Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton are specially designed for people, both men and women who want to accessorize their wardrobe with something more than just everyday, normal traditional handbags. Whether it is a formal or an informal event, casual or business, trendy designer handbags remain distinctively a class apart. The exclusivity and value, brands like D&G, Chanel and Gucci offer, are outstanding; not only are they made of materials of the highest quality they represent the sophistication and richness of high-end designer wear.
Popular designer handbag brand names include Gucci, Coach, DKNY, Chanel, Chritian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Kenneth Cole, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada, and Armani.
The latest and stylish selections of some of the designer handbags from Gucci, Chanel, D&G are exclusive and include jewelled purses, rhinestone studs, western looks, patchwork and leather. Exhibiting an enticing and unique amalgamation of the tradition and contemporary, each product offered by these designers is created to add a new dimension to your personality! Evening bags, fine leather purses, stylish recycled handbags, slings and totes and even traditional weaves are all a part of the designer handbag collection offered by Gucci, Chanel and the likes.
Of course, when thinking about authentic designer handbags, the first idea that comes to mind is certainly the price tag they all come along with!
In a world that is highly fashion conscious and where people are swooning over glitterati, looking to emulate whatever the rich and the famous do, the problem of imitations is one to beware of. Several South East and Far East Asian countries have a large and thriving business of manufacturing replica designer wear, especially designer handbags. They use the same star quality in their replica designer handbags and sell them at the most economical prices. They ensure that all the replica designer handbags have the correct identical markings as the original purses. Like any Louis Vuitton, Chanel or Chanel designer handbags, they have the same heat embossed stamps, designer emblems, engraved hardware and beautiful interior linings.
With such opportunities available in the market today, the priceless designer handbag from Chanel or Gucci that you could only once dream of is now not only affordable and available to you but also the envy of your neighbour.
If you are a demanding and fastidious fashion conscious customer only looking for the real designer handbag, please visit authorized dealers or exclusive designer showrooms. For the rest there are several online sites offering original replica designer handbags!
Labels: brands boutique, brandsboutique, designer brands, designer handbags, discount designer handbags, discount designer purses, efashionhouse, fashion brands, handbags, purses
Welcome to the Brands Boutique Blog

BrandsBoutique is part of a group of online fashion accessory stores at eFashionHouse.com. There's also a Yahoo! Store which directs most of its traffic to the updated BrandsBoutique online shop.
Most women carry handbags, and some men do, too. Designer handbags have become very popular over the past decade because as an accessory, a handbag adds style to any outfit. Handbags are functional and serve a purpose, too. People are on the go from dawn to dusk and need to tote essentials. Make the tote exciting, stylish and fashionable without paying full price.
Some of the media reports a decline in the handbags business. Seems as though the prediction is totally unpredictable seeing as women are the major customer for handbags. And, you know as well as I trying to predict a woman is almost impossible to do!
Labels: brands boutique, brandsboutique, designer brands, designer handbags, discount designer handbags, discount designer purses, efashionhouse, fashion brands, handbags, purses, tano handbags


