When it comes to this season’s ‘It’ bags, although each has its own unique and trendy aspects, one thing all these bags seem to have in common, is a classic element that will allow their wearers to continue to use and love them even has this season passes. Which is key when it comes to making a designer bag investment! Who wants a bag that “expires” after one season, anyway?
We’ve been seeing readditions of past classics alongside some fresh new designs. The playing of colours and textures has been a huge recurring theme for this season’s trending bags as well as an aspect of versatility!
Here are the designer ‘It’ bags you should be keeping an eye out for this season!
Balenciaga Small Le Cagole Shoulder Bag
Reminiscent of Balenciaga’s iconic City Bag thanks to its moto-inspired details, is the Le Cagole Shoulder Bag! It gives a touch of Y2K nostalgia with its detachable heart-shaped mirror charm. We can’t seem to scroll Instagram without this bag popping up, and we can’t get enough! If you want to get a bit of a deal, Toronto’s VSP Consignment currently has one available.
YSL ICARE Maxi Shopping Bag
The absolute anti-micro bag is the YSL ICARE Maxi Shopping Bag. There’s no way you wouldn’t be able to fit everything you need within a day, in this bag. It’s literally huge. As if its size didn’t make enough of a statement, the logo is to scale, making it pretty much impossible to ignore.
Prada Symbole Leather and Fabric Mini Bag
What’s better than one bag? Two bags! You get two-in-one with Prada’s Symbole Leather and Fabric Mini Bag. You can wear the duo together or separately – technically making for a total of three bags! Its versatility along with its unique triangle shape and pattern, mimicking the Prada logo, makes for a perfect mix of trendy and classic.
Gucci Jackie 1961 Bag
Gucci has brought its iconic Jackie 1961 Bag back in a contemporary way with seemingly endless style choices! You can bet pretty much any bag in the Jackie collection has reached ‘It’ bag status. The best part about this bag is the fact that it’s been around since 1961. This not only means you can trust that it won’t ever go out of style – making it a great investment piece. But also, since it has been around for so long, you can find versions of the Gucci Jackie all over the vintage and secondhand markets.
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag
Coach has been coming out with a ton of amazing, stylish pieces lately! Its Pillow Tabby is amongst its most popular bags of the moment, as it’s been trending for a while now. The original is definitely classic enough to take you through all seasons, however, if you’re looking for a bag stylized for the colder seasons, Coach has come out with a super chic shearling version!
Bottega Veneta Jodie
There’s just something about the Jodie bag by Bottega Veneta. This designer bag is made with Bottega’s signature intrecciato weave and has a half-moon silhouette, which seems to be the bag shape of the season! Although this is considered to be a trending ‘It’ bag, it is absolutely a classic! It comes in various colour and size options, all equally fab.
Miu Miu Wander Matelassé Shoulder Bag
Again, the half-moon silhouette making an appearance! Yet in a more structured, feminine twist this time with Miu Miu’s Wander collection. This bag is a perfect example of mixing a classic silhouette with a unique and fun texture – in turn creating another iconic ‘It’ bag. This bag has been making more and more of an appearance and we can’t wait to see all the ways it gets styled this season!
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Based in Montreal, LXRandCo is definitely a vintage luxury retailer that you need to have on your radar.
The brand’s mission is to extend the lives of luxury handbags and accessories by providing its customers an affordable, curated, and authentic collection.
As the largest vintage luxury retailer in Canada, customers can shop hundreds of styles from designer brands. Here you’ll find iconic pieces by Gucci, Chanel, Hermès, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, and many more.
With an ever-evolving collection of pre-loved classics, LXRandCO acquires new items at the beginning of each season that reflect the current trends. So, customers get a chance to shop classics and the most sought-after styles.
In today’s world, there’s such a major focus on finding ways to shop as sustainably as possible. and with LXRandCo, you can do just that with vintage luxury pieces.
On the site, the company actually has an alphabetical rating system to let you know the exact condition the product is in. We love a brand that’s totally transparent about its offerings!
Cam di Prata, Interim CEO of LXRandCo says, “At LXR, we have been providing consumers with authenticated branded luxury products and an environmentally responsible way to enjoy luxury products for consumers that otherwise would not have access to them.”
Not only can you purchase as well as sell your designer handbags at LXRandCo, but the brand also offers a super cool program. You can choose any handbag on the site, make a purchase, and strut the streets with your new arm candy. Then, if you’re ready to move onto another luxury piece, you can actually send back the handbag within 12 months and get 75% of the price you paid right back to you.
This is reluxury – without the commitment.
Here Are Our Top Picks From The Sale that you have to check out!
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For some, figuring out how to spend your hard-earned money is just as hard as spending it. But if you’re anything like me, throwing your money at impulse purchases and fast fashion is easy.
What’s in your bank account right now might be able to get you those trendy pieces you’ll love for a season, but changing the direction of where those hard-earned dollars is what elevates your closet into something out of a Coveteur editorial.
Sometimes to have it all, you’ve got to go slow; you’ve got to save up for those collectors-worthy items — it just takes time, patience, and dedication. Easier said than done, I know. But you can get started with a few fashion classics that will never go out of style.
Here are 11 classic designer items worth splurging on:
Louis Vuitton Sarah Wallet
A Louis Vuitton wallet is a great classic designer investment piece for a couple of reasons. It’s much roomier than it looks and because it’s Louis Vuitton, you know you’ll use it forever. And for $810, it’s $970 cheaper than the iconic Neverfull GM – aka a steal (well not really, but you know what we mean).
Shop it here: Louis Vuitton, Sarah Wallet, $810
Chanel Earrings
A classic designer Chanel item that’s definitely worth investing in is their earrings. The earrings in their costume jewellery collection look much more expensive than they actually are, and wear just as well with a pair of jeans as they do an LBD.
Shop it here: Chanel, Gold, Pearly White & Crystal Earrings, $625
Burberry Trench Coat
A Burberry trench coat is probably one of the most timeless classic designer investment purchases you can make. This type of coat has been in style forever, and that does not appear to be changing any time soon. Also, if you live in a climate that has cold and rainy seasons, you’re guaranteed to get a ton of use out of it year after year.
Shop it here: Burberry, Kensington Heritage Trench Coat, $2,550
Cartier Love Bracelet
The Cartier love bracelet may have only become mainstream in recent years (thanks in part to Kylie Jenner who’s a huge fan), however, it’s actually been around since 1969. Famous for the unique way it’s put on (you have to lock it up with a mini screwdriver), this is a bracelet you can wear for the rest of your life – literally.
Shop it here: Cartier, Love Bracelet (Yellow Gold), $7,950
Gucci Loafers
Yes they cost a pretty penny, but a pair of Gucci loafers is a classic designer buy you’ll never regret. Whether you splurge on a pair of the backless mules or the classic closed-heel style, your feet will be so comfy (and look so good) you’ll never want to take them off.
Shop it here: Gucci, Princetown Embroidered Leather Slippers, $975
Tom Ford Sunglasses
Every girl needs a pair of classic black, Jackie-O style sunnies her collection. We love how these Tom Ford ones have a timeless look, but with a modern twist.
Buy it: Nordstrom, Tom Ford Alistair 56mm Gradient Sunglasses, $601.05
Chanel Double Flap Bag
If you want a big, tall glass of classic, a Chanel Double Flap Bag is it. The best investment would be the OG black caviar leather with gold hardware — it’ll last throughout your lifetime, well into your granddaughter’s. If you’re going to drop big bucks, get something you can wear through every season, with every outfit, for every occasion.
Luckily, you can almost always find it on sites like TheRealReal.com or Vestiaire Collective. Although the Chanel flap comes in a multitude of sizes, the medium is the most reliable. And not only will it exceed your cost-per-wear, but it will never lose its value.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Chanel Classic Double Flap Bags, $3,500 to $8,900
#OldCéline
Anyone with an appreciation for fashion knows getting your hands on any of Phoebe Philo’s designs for Céline is enough. As a collector, you know the adrenaline rush of scouting those #OldCéline wedges the Olsen Twins wore in the mid-2000s. With people seeking the resurgence of Bottega Venetta (#NewBottega) to maintain what is reminiscent of Philo’s palette, you can only truly attain it through her relics. Scour vintage shops, consignment stores, and qualified resellers to find your dream piece. I’ve set alerts for the Gourmette Bag in Green Suede from the Fall 2012 Collection and the Crystal Moon Hoops from one of her last collections. Or better yet, cop these studded beauties from a few years ago.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Céline Studded Pointed-Toe Mules, $608.21
AllSaints Moto Jacket
Whether it’s in brown suede or smooth black leather, the AllSaints Balfern is as necessary as ketchup on fries. This jacket will carry you through season after season, and like any good wine, gets better with age. Wear it in, age the leather, and soften its fit for a truly personal piece. This staple item can be scored during their end-of-season sales, but is worth paying full price. Plus, its ability to go with any look will guarantee your cost-per-wear ratio to be well worth it.
Shop it here: AllSaints, Balfern Leather Jacket, $615
Vintage Pucci
Like Old Céline, you can only truly appreciate Pucci’s designs by collecting his original designs. Although his gowns and swimwear are highly-coveted, all you need is a neck scarf to satiate your craving for his bright colourways and signature patterns. Add a little retro flare to any outfit with a subtle but significant accessory. The colourway in this classic neck scarf is both retro and wearable, so you get the perfect dosage.
Shop it here: The RealReal, Emilio Pucci Printed Square Scarf, $82.01
Premium denim
We all love a good pair of Topshop Jamies, considering we have them in every cut and wash. But investing in a good pair of premium denim will last you a good decade and wear into your perfect shape. One of my favourite brands is J Brand, which integrates comfort with style within their brand philosophy and design execution. It’s also a a go-to for celebrities. Cut for the most flattering fit, you’ll find just the right wash and in-seam with J Brand. Being 4’11, my favourite cut is the Alana Cropped. When it comes to premium denim, the price is always worth the splurge — just make sure that you’re getting a classic wash, like a classic black or indigo.
Shop it here: J Brand, Alana High-Rise Cropped Super Skinny In Fix, $228
Featured Image: Instagram/@karlakazemi
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Since I started investing in luxury handbags a few years ago, I’ve treated the pieces in my collection like delicate newborn babies. When you’ve spent hundreds (or let’s be honest, thousands) on a new designer bag, it’s important to give it the TLC it deserves. Here are 8 tricks on how to properly store and care for your expensive handbags so you can wear them for years to come (and win points with your future granddaughter!)
1. When in Doubt, Leave it Out
Although it may be tempting to carry around everything but the kitchen sink (who knows what lip colour you’ll be in the mood for later?), try to narrow it down to just the necessities. Overstuffing can cause your bag’s materials and handles to stretch, permanently altering its shape.
2. Keep Things Separate
Even with a small purse, put any products that may cause spillage or leave stains (such as hand sanitizer or lipstick) in a separate ziplock or makeup bag. Since the lining in one of my Chanel bags is light pink, this tip is a must for me!
3. Don’t Place it On the Floor
https://www.instagram.com/p/BR_bAKpDDYj/?hl=en&taken-by=somethingnavy
Not only is this bad feng shui (ever heard of the saying “a purse on the floor is money out the door”?) but it is a guaranteed way for your bag to get dirty and damaged.
4. Clean Hands Only
Just returned from an outdoor run or put on some moisturizing hand lotion? Make sure to wash your hands before handling your bag as the transfer of dirt and oils can stain it easily.
5. Water Safety
If your bag is leather, try to avoid using it on rainy or snowy days as water can cause the bag to swell and lose its shape. If you get water on it accidentally, quickly blot it with a towel and then allow it to air dry naturally.
6. Store With Care
https://www.instagram.com/p/BWvOJ8-n4oa/?hl=en&taken-by=lydiaemillen
The same way you would tuck a baby safely into its crib at night, you should always place your purse in its dust bag for extra protection when not in use. It is also best to put back in the original stuffing to help retain the bag’s shape, and if there are metal straps, pull them inside the bag (if possible) to prevent indentation marks.
7. Give it a Rest
As tempting as it may be to use your expensive purchase day after day, try to keep alternating it with the other bags in your closet. The bag’s materials need a chance to breathe, and it will remain in better condition if it is not used on a daily basis.
8. Seek Professional Help
For damage such as stains, rips or broken zippers, take your bag immediately to a professional for repair. Most shoe repair professionals also work on handbags, and some brands do in-house repairs on their own bags. Remember that the sooner you seek help, the sooner the experts can work their magic and save your precious baby bag.
Do you have any tricks on how to store and care for luxury handbags? We’d love to hear from you!
Featured image: Instagram/@somethingnavy
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If you’re a travel addict and fashion junkie at the same time, you know how important it is to find the right bag that will support you on every adventure. If you’re looking for such “travel companion” right now, you should wait no longer and check out the first stand-alone MCM store opened in Toronto.
The flagship store located at 93 Bloor ST. W. in the Yorkville neighbourhood offers everything from small leather wallets with the signature print to leather slides and sneakers.
“We look forward to showcasing our iconic collections and signature in-store experience at such a prime section of Bloor Street. With its well-edited roster of fashion retailers, Toronto is a natural choice for MCM’s eleventh North American store and first Canadian flagship. We are confident that our many loyal MCM customers will love this new store,” said Patrick Valeo, President of MCM.
MCM’s contemporary classic aesthetic with a modern spin, bold design and functionality would be a great fit for dynamic, stylish and creative people who appreciate comfort and not afraid to make a statement.
The luxury travel goods company was first opened in 1976 in Munich and combines both Western and Asian heritage which is reflected in classic silhouettes, bold prints and unexpected luxury materials, including mink fur.
What do you think about the first MCM store in Toronto? Let us know in the comments!
Featured images: MCM
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It was during the telling of my story behind how I got an Hermès Kelly Cut, that my superior mentioned I should write an article about it.
For those who do not know, Hermès is paramount when it comes to luxury leather goods, and so not to be dogmatic in saying this, it is imperative to know that the bags are actually made in France by hand. Many other houses would have you believe their bags are made in France but in reality, only about 10% (sometimes even less) of the production happens there, while the other 90% happens where labour is cheaper.
Hermès is a brand that prides themselves on excellence. It is a house founded in 1837 which began as a company dedicated to fine leather equine for European nobility. Sex & The City helped to add a mainstream allure around the house of Hermès and their most famous bag the Birkin, which not only made several appearances but had a starring role in the infamous scene with Sam Jones. Played by Kim Cattrall, Jones visits Hermès in New York to try and buy a Birkin, only to find she has to wait for years on waitlist.
Hermès is best known for two bags, these being Birkin and Kelly but a much more elusive and harder to get bag exists – I give you the Kelly Cut.
What makes the Kelly Cut so special is that it is a reinterpretation of a Fall 2008 bag called Kelly Longue, designed by former creative director of Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier. The bag is an evening clutch rendition of the bag famously named after Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco, who used the bag to cover her pregnant belly in 1956. While the handbag was known as the Kelly it was not renamed after her until 1977.
Image: FashionGoneRogue.com
Kelly Cut, the (clutch) successor to Kelly, is an elusive bag often reserved for Hermès’ most VIP customers. In 2015, the Hermès Toronto flagship was said to have only received 8 Kelly Cuts from January to year-end in December by an in-house sales associate, and in New York when I got my Kelly Cut the Hermès flagship, they were said to have only received 10 Kelly Cuts, mine being that 10th one in all of 2016 as of August, according to a sales associate that was adamant on letting me know how lucky I was to have gotten one.
Knowing that the Kelly Cut is usually reserved for top-tier clients, I still went to the Manhattan store in hopes of getting one. I met with my sales associate who I formerly bought two Collier De Chien bracelets from, one a 18kt yellow gold bangle (Hermès’ reply to the Cartier Love bracelet) and the other in sterling silver.
My sales associate sat my friend and I down on the second floor amidst the jewelry, first offering us Perrier water and then giving me a pen and a piece of paper which had “Hermès” at the top of it. I was to write down my wish list of items, plural or singular.
Writing on the paper “Kelly Cut” with a list of colours I would be willing to wear the bag in, my sales associate took it and left the floor. After returning with good news: my wish list request had been approved by the store director. My friend and I looked at each other with excitement because from that moment on we knew I would get my Kelly Cut and from this point on, it would just be a waiting game. 
And if you’re wondering, yes, the store director had to review my buying history. To be frank, the store director had to see if I was worthy of one of Hermès’ top three bags. While it may sound ridiculous to some, this is how they maintain their status and drive sales.
Two months go by and I am getting antsy, wondering if my sales associate forgot me because I don’t buy any of the top tier products like the $130,000 diamond cuffs or $200,000 crocodile diamond pavé bags. I email her to let her know I am still very interested in acquiring the Kelly Cut, to which she assures me my turn to be offered will come.
Behold Saturday August 27th, when I received an email saying that a Kelly Cut has arrived in Swift leather and a colour called “Bleu Paon”, which is French for Peacock Blue. I responded within 15 minutes of the email, purchasing my flight to New York that night as Hermès is only allowed to hold a bag for 24 hours before releasing it to next on the list. Luckily, I had 48 hours to get to Manhattan, as the boutique was closed the day after it arrived.
In an article by The Daily Mail titled, The Bag You are not Allowed to Buy, it is said that “these bags are so covetable, they are said to be a better investment than stocks and shares – for unlike a new car or piece of jewellery, they appreciate in value the moment you buy them. Just one problem: you have to get hold of one in the first place.”
And the author was not wrong. Since purchasing, the bag I bought in the same colour and hardware is currently selling for double my purchasing price. Why you ask? Because of the hoops and hurdles you have to jump through and over in order to get your hands on one of the top three bags by Hermès.
I have the hardest bag to get from Hermès, which is due to such low production of the Kelly Cut, and while deep down I do believe that all of these bags are overpriced, it’s no different than when comparing a Mercedes-Benz to a Honda or a Canada Goose jacket to an off-brand one, as no one needs a $150,000 sedan or an $800 down-filled coat.
Would you wait for an elusive Hermès bag? Let us know in the comment section below.
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Luxury products, especially bags, are some of the most coveted items on the planet. When something is highly coveted, usually the black market gets to work crafting and replicating, selling copies of the product for a cheaper price. There is a myriad of reasons why buying counterfeit goods are wrong, but the most prevalent reason is the fact that you are buying a copy of something that someone else has put blood sweat and tears into creating, marketing and selling.
The best piece of advice anyone can give to stay away from buying fake goods is by following the simple mantra, “if the deal looks too good to be true, then it probably is.”
If you are still confused, Racked has put together an awesome video on how to spot the difference between a fake and real bag.
Check out how to spot a fake designer bag below: