Most of you have heard the crazy frenzy involving Anya Hindmarch’s “I’m Not a Plastic Bag”, which is indeed made of cotton. The 5 pound bag (currency, not weight) sold out in the UK within one hour of being released. Then resellers reaped hundreds of dollars of profit via eBay.

Now a U.S. version is coming stateside (pictured). And the wait-listing is set to begin.

So why do I make the bold claim that Anya is an eco-poser? The bags are limited edition, with a 2 tote-per-customer limit. But to use these at groceries, one would need oh say five. When they sold out, what happened? Well, they didn’t immediately continue production, just lived it up from the buzz. When limited edition colours hit stores in outside countries, UK will be stocking more at Sainsburys stores. (So hopefully the correct steps will be set in motion.)

I understand that buzz is very good to make people want to follow this earth-friendly trend, but Hindmarch is 1: just hawking a fashion for fellow faux environmentalists, girls who will do it because it’s trendy, and 2: it’s just plain ironically twisted that these bags can’t serve their intended function, and most people who want one for that function can’t get one. The eBay buyers, by the way, in no way intend their main desire to be to help the Earth. They want a piece of IT, ’cause hey, even at $400 it’s not too-too bad a price to catch a HOT celebrity-toted designer bag. And the ones who sell, are they anti-green and pro the greens (if you know what I mean)? Yes, but who can blame them, when I’m sure 90% of you reading this would sell one if you had two. Continue to read more bag love »

Popularity: 83% [?]

I was on the hunt for a camera case for … oh probably years. Especially with my camera turning on and wasting battery if I take it anywhere with the batt left in. Ugh. Just recently, I also decided I needed a new digital camera, a small one with a “macro” setting. Now not only does my new camera do away with my cam problems, is on beat with modern technology & fun other settings in addition to macro, and it comes in pink(!) but it doesn’t even turn on randomly due to its optical lens features.

Still, when I found the cam, things just *clicked* into place and I found the perfect little case! It’s pink as well, is small enough to secure the camera, but with extra room to fit small accessories, in genuine leather and its darn cute to bag! Clearly meant for a camera, with padded sides to protect your gadget and a multi-colored dangling fob including a camera charm, it could even be a small clutch with its fashionable look and wristlet strap. The buckle + charms combo remind me of COACH meets Luella. Love it!

The price is darn right a dream, too: $24.99 and your order might come with free standard shipping. Oh yeah, here are the cameras, as well. Aren’t we just the picture of stylish perfection?

Popularity: 22% [?]

The holiday season is approaching, and so for each full week of December - and the first week of 2007 - I will do a different countdown of bags.

We kick things off with bags for bargain, budget bags might just be what’s on givers minds this week. (And don’t forget our whole series on Gifts the week of giving thanks!)

#4: Gap Foiled suede satchel

This bag is made of genuine suede, but moreover, it has a metallic flower print patterned on that suede. The shape is simple, although a little Spy-esque, so really what won me was the unique and luxe technique for the material. This bag is on sale, too, for $49.99! Great for a surprisingly large bag at 16″ wide.

Popularity: 8% [?]

For the year-end-and-beginning we’re doing top 5s every week in December, plus one special week in January. And to start off the Christmas shopping month, and to compliment our gifts series, this week it’s the Top 5 Budget Bags.

#5: Liz Claiborne Leather Croc-Embossed Pocket Tote

I have this bag and it’s a great quality, nice-looking, affordable brand bag. The moc croc leather is metallic and looks chic, plus it has plenty of pockets and is sizable. I predict snake will be back for Spring, so if you want to stock up now, think about this bag. Especially as it is on sale for $49.49 (and long gone from the outlets, so eBags is the place to purchase).

4th Top Budget Bag
3rd Top Budget Bag
2nd Top Budget Bag
1st Top Budget Bag!

Popularity: 11% [?]

This post is part of our week-long Holiday Gifts series. Read post 1: Coach Demis on eBay.

Who ever heard of a jewelry roll? Well luxe brand, Banana Republic, has made just that—this “Jewelry Roll” is for storing jewelry. The clutch-like piece of fabric unwraps to reveal three wide pockets lined in silk for storage. With its red velvet exterior and beautiful satin bow, I say this item could even be used as a handbag for holiday events!

Measuring 7 ½” x 4″ and at only $38, that’s not a bad choice.

Popularity: 17% [?]

I know, it’s July 5 and I’m posting about clutches that definitely look like they’re made for fall—shame on me! I don’t want to think about the upcoming fall season and colder months, but I thought these Menswear Clutches were so cute, especially given that they’re only $28! Various menswear fabrics (plaid, black pinstripe, houndstooth and basic black) have been fashioned into classy clutches that have decidely ladylike appeal.

The simplicity of the design and the size (9″ l x 4.5″ h x 2″ d) are the perfect match for these fabrics—if the clutch was sized larger or had too many embellishments, the patterned fabrics would stand a good chance of becoming too much. Instead, the elements work together to create clutches that would look adorable peeking out larger purses this autumn or even carrying one by itself.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Last week was just one of those weeks for me, you know the kind when it seems like nothing you do works out; naturally, anytime I have that kind of week, I feel like shopping, only right now, I’m trying to cut back a bit, which is not fun. Of course, that didn’t stop me from buying a new pair of shoes at J. Crew, but in my defense, they were on sale!

So, what to do when you need to satisfy a shopping desire, but you can’t go out and spend a large chunk of cash? One option is to search the Internet where you’ll find lots of affordable and nicely designed pieces. While I was surfing the web, I happened to find this cute Polka Dot Cosmetic Case (12″ l x 9″ h x 3.5″ d) for only $28! It’s available in brown/teal or black/white and has lots of room—just listen to all the storage it has: 2 clear zip pockets, 3 patch pockets, a removable zip pouch with zip pocket, 7 brush pockets and a detached small zip pouch!

I adore polka dots, so finding this case made me smile, plus it would be perfect for packing in my luggage for a summer vacation!

Popularity: 5% [?]

A dear two-tonal maize straw tote with a cute printed lining and matching fabric tie closure—that is this J. Crew Bicolor Straw Tote. With a triangle shape and a juxtaposed tie to match its cotton poplin lining, this bag is sweet to stroll the boardwalk and I’m even thinking it would be a wonderful accent around the house to hold knitting or magazines, or stand on a table in a sitting room. Call me crazy! But at only $48, this tote could serve any duty.

Popularity: 11% [?]

Montauk: A Native American people formerly inhabiting the eastern end of Long Island in New York. J. Crew Small Printed Montauk Tote with Charm: quite charming indeed.

Something about these convertible J. Crew totes get me, but I was especially impressed with this Montauk print when I saw it in stores a couple of weeks ago. A unique layout of the print on each bag, snazzy convertible style, and cute dangling charms make it special. And now, it’s on sale! It’s down from $59.50 to $29.99. I just might have to snatch one up when I go to the mall on Tuesday. I know, I know. But when a sale-stalkable item pays out with such a great price?? Sure, I’ll think some more about it and make sure I love it when I see it again, but this thing may not last through dilly-dallying!

Popularity: 8% [?]

I’ve been dreaming about cashmere, soft knit, and lately; crochet bags and possibly eyelet. Usually, they are white. I do want something of that type. I want it to be an all-year bag; not trendy. I want it to be soft and luxurious. (And this bag is actual leather.)

This Eyelet Drawstring bag by Urban Outfitters is not perfect, but it is so cute. It has a cute shape. It has cute tassels. But what I would do with it is tie the strap once more, in some way, to make it shorter.

This is the first white bag that I actually have a strong urge to buy (at a guilt-free $48). (The purple is not nearly as charming.) I shouldn’t. I’m crazy. (And I’ll go crazy to keep it clean.) What do you think? (And are there any quality alternatives?)

I’m keepin’ it calm… I’m keepin’ it calm… (And I have something that should arrive in the mail that says, “no more buying bags!”)

Popularity: 5% [?]