Handbaggery

Fans. I Haz Them.

2010-03-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

I just finished teaching yet another a six week Intro To Non-Fiction class with the Gotham Writers Workshop and I'm getting in some course evaluations. They are stroking my ego. The new session starts April 19th, so if you feel like stalking me, you can do so for $320. But you must turn in the weekly writing assignments.

Says one former student:
"Pauline is one of the most entertaining individuals I've ever encountered. She created a safe and enjoyable learning environment for someone who was very nervous to try writing out. I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and good content!"

Gucci Hysteria Collection Commericials

2008-04-18T07:37:00.001-07:00

If there was ever such a thing as true handbag porn, these ads for the Gucci Hysteria collection for Spring/Summer 2008 hit the nail on the head. The first one is a little intense while the second is like the quiet storm remix.

Extended Dance Remix

The Quiet Storm

2008-04-18T07:31:00.001-07:00

I'm really in awe of people who have time to make videos like this, where Coach wristlets dance around to a country-fied acoustic guitar.

Must Watch! Fake Handbag Documentary

2008-04-17T12:39:00.001-07:00

I'm really pleased to hear that PBS will air, "Illicit: The Dark Trade" which is a documentary about the fake handbag industry.

The documentary is based on the 2005 best seller Illicit, by Foreign Policy Editor-in-Chief Dr. Moisés Naím, who thinks that the economy surrounding fake goods could be more dangerous than terrorism.

Burberry Revenue Up 19%

2008-04-16T13:49:00.001-07:00

- Burberry's Cat -

The hits just keep on coming for Burberry. The company reports a rise in total revenue of 19 per cent through March 31.

Its European operations (excluding Spain) have seen revenue go up 35 per cent to £194 million compared with the same period in 2006 and 2007.

North America has had revenue growth of 20 per cent from £113 million to £135 million, in the period.

Total revenue was up 19 per cent from £458 million to £546 million.

LVMH Shares Rally As Asia Helps Boost Sales

2008-04-16T13:44:00.001-07:00

LOUIS VUITTON in Shenzhen

As the American economy teeters on recession, luxury makers can only hope that the international markets pull through in order to boost their bottom line.

LVMH must be very happy about their ever-expanding presence in Asia. Marketwatch is reporting that shares rallied on Wednesday after strong first-quarter sales indicated that wealthy customers aren't afraid to splurge thousands of dollars on a new handbag or watch even as the global economy has worsened.

The fastest growth was in watches and jewelry, where revenue rose 12% to 211 million euros. The fashion and leather-goods arm reported revenue of 1.45 billion euros, up 7%.

Shares in the company rose 3.5% in Paris, having gained as much as 5% in early trading.

Bag Borrow Or Steal Launches Luxury Collection

2008-04-10T12:07:00.001-07:00

For those of you who really need to get your luxe on, Bag Borrow or Steal has launched a "collection of handbags, jewelry and sunglasses of distinction" to cater to you.

It's called Avelle and it offers items from designers such as Versave, Gucci and Prada, all available at the regular borrower rates.

Monday's Sample Sales

2008-04-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Today's sample sales come courtesy of Top Button:

Perlina - Mother's Day Sample Sale
4/7/2008 - 4/15/2008
Mon-Thu 9am-6pm
Fri 9am-4pm
Closed Sat & Sun
10 W. 33rd St-Perlina Showroom
(btwn 5th & Broadway)
Suite 210
New York, NY 10001
(212) 268-8530
Cash/MC/VISA/AMEX/DIS - No Checks

Roberto Cavalli, Gucci, Blumarine, Valentino

4/10/2008 - 4/11/2008
Thu - Fri 10am-7pm
540 Park Ave. - Regency Hotel(@ 61st St.)
Penthouse Suite
New York, NY 10021
(917) 940-9934
Cash/VISA/AMEX/MC

Coach Shares Rise on Upgrade

2008-04-04T13:14:00.001-07:00

Shares of Coach rose today after a Buckingham Research Group analyst upgraded the stock and said the luxury handbag and accessories maker's business has stabilized.

David J. Glick said Coach's business has stabilized at a time when overall conditions have worsened. Handbag growth is unlikely to resume growing at the 20 percent it was previously, but Glick said there are other factors working in Coach's favor.

Those include improving Coach results at department stores, and innovative new product offerings for the fall that are being reviewed well, Glick said.

Classes in Counterfeiting Cause Controversy

2008-04-03T12:29:00.001-07:00

Counterfeit bags are big business, but designers are trying to educate people, specifically students, as much as possible about them.

The International Anticounterfeiting Coalition, which is made up of several luxury designers, gave from $5,000 to $10,000 to seven colleges to offer a course (created in part by a public relations firm) that expounded on the evil of fake goods.

Hunter College in New York City says the experimental course did not require the regular approval process. Coach, one of the sponsoring companies, says it's happy that once students learned that counterfeiters use child labor and dangerous parts, they came out against the practice.

Gryson For Target Now Available Online

2008-04-03T09:05:00.001-07:00

Elle's Tell All blog is reporting that the much coveted Gryson for Target bags are now available online, although the collection officially releases on April 6.

More Sample Sales!

2008-04-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

The sample sales seem to be a hit, so here are a few more.

Courtesy of Daily Candy:

Ted Rossi
Spiffy jewelry, bags, and accessories sold at Bergdorf and Intermix at up to 75 percent off.
Apr. 2-4. Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
15 E. 30th St., b/t Fifth & Madison Aves., ste. 300 (212-683-1726).

Hayden-Harnett
Satchels, were $238-$598, now $100-$350; hobos, were $370-548, now $150-$300; wallets, were $130-205, now $75-$125; capes, were $398, now $99.
Apr. 8-10. Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
16 W. 36th St., b/t Fifth & Sixth Aves., ste. 501 (212-564-3720).

Aspirational Shoppers Downgrade On Clothing But Not Accessories

2008-04-01T12:49:00.001-07:00

Another day, another story about aspirational shoppers. Forbes has a story about how in light of a crummy economy aspirational shoppers -- the same people who turned Coach into McLuxury -- are trading down when it comes to clothing, but keeping their high-end accessories, such as handbags and shoes.

Pourquoi? It seems that these shoppers assume that if they carry the fancy bag no one will notice their H&M dress. Retailers seem to be perfectly okay with this mindset, since Zara and H&M posted gains last quarter. Louis Vuitton and Prada are also giving more air time to their accessory lines, as opposed to their ready-to-wear.

From Finance To Fashion

2008-04-01T07:33:00.001-07:00

It's almost a cliche for someone to say, "I work in finance, but I really would love to quit and design clothing or handbags or jewelery." New designers, especially in New York, are a dime a dozen.

It always pleases me to hear about people who really do quit their gigs as analysts and dive into a creative career. Forbes has a great piece about women who took all the money they saved from their bonuses and started their own accessories companies.

Little did I know that it takes between $250,000 to $500,000 just to get started, and you probably won't see a profit for at least three seasons.

Sample Sales!

2008-03-31T13:51:00.000-07:00

A reader suggested that Handbaggery start posting sample sales, since we are in a recession and everyone loves a good deal. Thanks for the great idea! Here are a few:

Elie Tahari - Spring Sample & Stock Up To 80% Off.

Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier - Bridal Sample Sale.

Meg Cohen-Designer Cashmere Scarves, Hats, & Gloves.

Kwigy-bo Luxuries For Dogs - Spring Sample Sale.

In A Recession, Think Of The Trophy Wives!

2008-03-27T08:31:00.001-07:00

I try not to be smug. Then I come across stories such as this piece in the New York Post (I know, I know...) about how the wives of I-Bankers have to fire their interior designers because of economic concerns and cut other corners. Granted, they swear they're not poor (heaven forbid!) they just need to make a few changes.

Trophy wives being who they are, perhaps they could organize a benefit or a luncheon in order to continue supporting their local artisans?

The New York Times Looks Into Bottega Veneta

2008-03-27T08:14:00.001-07:00

We are all familiar with the adage, "You can please some of the people some of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time." It seems that Tomas Maier, the creative director at Bottega Veneta, has taken that to heart when approaching his designs.

At a time when most luxury designers are trying to make a quick buck off the aspirational shoppers, Bottega has quietly thumbed his nose at such a practice and focused on his core clients (remember them?) Nor has splashed his logos or initials all over his work.

His approach seems to be successful, as the Times piece points out. Bottega is the second most profitable company in the Gucci group.

Coach, perhaps could take a pointer or two from Maier.

Forbes Reports On The World's Most Desirable Luxury Brands

2008-03-25T11:01:00.001-07:00

There's an old Count Basie song that contains the line, "In spite of the worry that money brings, just a little filthy loot could buy us a lot of things." That was the mindset behind a recent poll by The Nielsen Company that asked people what brands they would buy if money was no object.

Gucci came out on top, with Calvin Klein and Chanel tying for second place.

An interesting bit that came out of the survey was that the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong topped the list of areas where most designer brands are purchased.

Portfolio Looks At Coach In Depth

2008-03-24T09:38:00.001-07:00

A few years ago I was walking past a Coach store with a guy who knows far more about finance than I ever will. I cringed when I saw one of Coach's latest offerings -- a technicolor handbag that was miles away from the muted, leather bags I had known them for. My friend didn't flinch, and instead just said, "They're weakening the brand. In the long-term this will not be good for them."

Truer words have never been spoken, and Portfolio's latest piece about Coach and its CEO, Lew Frankfort, reinforces what my friend said years ago. Coach stores are everywhere, they come out with new styles all the time and they stay away from It Bags.

Despite all the money the company has earned, Coach has become a bit of a punchline in the high-end handbag market. Coach seems to be aware of this and has even scaled back some of its corporate communications about store openings in smaller, Midwestern markets.

I'm glad Portfolio wrote this piece because for years I have wondered what on earth Coach has been thinking, even while knowing two people who worked there.

Two of the best lines from the piece:

1. "The army of upper-middle class suburban women who balk at dropping $2,700 for an Alexander McQueen python clutch but might spend $500 or $600 on a soft leather melon-colored hobo bag to impress the girls at tennis and make the cleaning lady swoon."

2. "To people on Park Avenue, having a Coach bag may not be an event, but for many people in America it is something very special that makes them feel like they've accomplished something."

Fake It Until You Make It...Through The Recession

2008-03-24T09:12:00.001-07:00

When the financial markets are topsy-turvy, is it really a good idea to drop $2,000 on a handbag? A more prudent consumer would say no, and that renting it for a bit would be the better idea, at least until economic indicators are a little more rosy.

Portfolio has a piece today about how the recession may hit luxury retailers in the bottom line, but companies that rent high end goodies are seeing gains.

Some may wrinkle their noses at the idea of renting luxury, but the Portfolio piece brings up the idea that some retailers may get into the business themselves. (If you can't beat 'em...). After all, renting goods offers cash up front and you can get the inventory by paying wholesale.

The best line of the story, "Calling the borrowed-luxury business the 'canned fruit of the accessories world,'David Laibson, a professor of economics at Harvard University, says such rental- or fractional-ownership systems can also shroud poverty."

"Canned fruit of the luxury business?" I love it.

Louis Vuitton Wins Copyright Lawsuit in China

2008-03-24T09:02:00.001-07:00

You have to hand it to Louis Vuitton. Despite being one of the most counterfeited bags out there, if they can protect their brand in any way possible, they do, and in spades. For instance, a few months ago they fined Britney Spears $80,000 for using their logo in one of her videos.

The French designer came down hard last week on a Chinese hotel who leased space to a shop selling counterfeit products using the French luxury producer's logo. Not only were they selling unauthorized bags, the bags were fake. That's a double whammy. The hotel and shop owner will pay $14,000 to LVMH.

Citi Downgrades Coach to Hold

2008-03-18T12:37:00.001-07:00

I could have seen this coming a mile away, but Citi finally downgraded Coach from Buy to Hold. It's stock target price dropped from $40 to $31.

The Citi analyst had this to say, "We believe investor concerns regarding the handbag category performance in recessionary times and diminished sales visibility in a deteriorating macroeconomic environment will drive multiple contraction. We believe investors will continue to overlook Coach's strong fundamentals (strong brand, compelling store growth potential, exceptional management team, and superior business model) until the company can deliver several quarters of positive North American retail same store sales."

Bag Borrow or Steal to Promote Sex And the City Movie

2008-03-18T12:24:00.001-07:00

The Sex And The City movie is taking corporate endorsement to a new level, but then again, one should never underestimate women's vanity.

Bag Borrow or Steal, the nation's leading "borrowed luxury" retailer that allows women to borrow designer handbags and jewelry online announced it has partnered with New Line Cinema to promote the release of the Sex and the City movie, debuting in theaters nationwide on May 30, 2008.

On April 1, Bag Borrow or Steal will launch the "Sex and the City Style Profile" YouTube Contest and the "Sex and the City Purse-onality" Sweepstakes. Both give a grand prize of a trip for two to New York City to attend the Sex and the City movie premiere.

From April 1- May 9, women can submit a video identifying the Sex and the City character whose style most resembles their own, as represented by their handbags.

Bag Borrow or Steal will also launch a Sex and the City style shop on March 18 which will give women access to a collection of luxury accessories inspired by the four main characters of Sex and the City.

Good Question! What Are Louis Vuitton Bags Made Of?

2008-03-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

A reader left a comment yesterday about and old post in which I make fun of a woman on a YouTube Video who said that the leather on her Louis Vuitton monogram bag was "to die for." The joke's on her, because the Monogram and Damier bags in the LV line are not made of leather -- they're made of treated canvas, as they have been since the bags were first made in France. The canvas is tough, though, and can withstand pretty much anything. You can also easily clean LV bags with babywipes.

If you're looking to kill some cows and want a leather bag, then the elegant Epi leather line is more your speed. You can get many of the popular LV styles -- Speedy, Alma, etc. in Epi leather, and in many colors.

Celeb-Endorsed Handbags Losing Their Appeal

2008-03-12T12:35:00.001-07:00

Empirical research is one thing, but British consumer research specialist Mintel found that women are turning away from celebrity-endorsed It bags. Concerns about the environment and labor issues factor in to these decisions, according to a piece in The Guardian.

"Women have become more cynical about celebrity-endorsed products," said Katrin Magnussen, senior fashion analyst at the market research group. "Many will no longer be as quick to spend hundreds, even thousands of pounds on a bag just because the likes of Posh Spice have been snapped with one," the piece reads.

Burberry In Demand After Rumors Of Coach Interest

2008-03-11T12:13:00.001-07:00

Burberry got a boost in its stock price yesterday after rumors bubbled up that Coach was considering buying the British maker of all things yellow and plaid.

Burberry shares climbed by almost 7 per cent after rumors of a bid from an unnamed suitor first surfaced on Friday.

Louboutin Are Officially Works Of Art

2008-03-11T10:50:00.001-07:00

Shoe and handbag obsessions often go hand in hand, so it's no surprise that the Museum at FIT in New York has an exhibit dedicated to Christian Louboutin, the man whose trademark red-soled shoes are favorites among celebrities such as Oprah and Christina Aguilera. It's called Sole Desire: The Shoes of Christian Louboutin.

Elle.com has an interview with Louboutin.

LV Roses For Japan's White Day

2008-03-10T09:19:00.001-07:00

Just when I thought Louis Vuitton couldn't slap its monogram on anything else, I heard about the Louis Vuitton Roses.

LV is huge is Japan, where people will buy pretty much anything with the iconic logo on it. Japan also has a holiday called White Day on March 14th, which is essentially their version of Valentine's Day.

Never to overlook a marketing opportunity, Louis Vuitton created monogrammed white roses, made of delicate white fabric and bearing the distinctive LV monogram and symbols.

The Louis Vuitton Japan website shows the "monogram flowers" conveniently matched with a variety of Louis Vuitton handbags and purses

Coach Pushes Growth Despite Econonic Worries

2008-03-05T12:54:00.001-08:00

Most luxury retailers are girding their loins in case of a recession. Coach, meanwhile, has a growth plans that seems to be on steroids.

At the Bear Stearns conference in New York, Mike Tucci, president, North America retail division, said the company plans to have 30 of the 40 domestic stores slated to open in fiscal 2009 open before Nov. 1 in an effort to capture higher sales volume by having more stores open by the holiday season.

Coach shares rose 66 cents to $30.74 during morning trading. The stock has traded between $23.22 and $54 during the past 52 weeks.

Saks Fifth Avenue Posts Fourth Quarter Gains

2008-03-05T08:25:00.001-08:00

Saks Fifth Avenue released its fourth quarter earnings and things seem to be coming up rosy.

Earnings rose to $39.5 million, or 26 cents per share, during the three-month period ended Feb. 2. That compared with $21.5 million, or 14 cents per share, in the prior-year period.

The results reflected a net gain of $10.4 million after taxes in the latest quarter. That included a gain of $8.1 million from an insurance settlement related to the New Orleans stores, which was destroyed in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina.

A Short History of Louis Vuitton Luggage

2008-03-03T09:26:00.001-08:00

If you've ever wondered about the history of Louis Vuitton bags --and who hasn't?-- check out this story that goes through the bag maker's history, complete with photos.

Forbes Takes A Look At 'It' Bags

2008-02-29T08:24:00.001-08:00

Forbes.com today takes a look at luxury handbags and how they fit in the marketplace.

Any piece about It Bags has the same basic components, and this one is no exception: It Bags change constantly, they're made popular by being placed on celebrities and It Bags always fit -- you're never too fat for them. (Seriously, there should be a template for writing about the role of luxury handbags in the marketplace.) The piece doesn't relay anything terribly new that anyone who follows this mini-sector wouldn't already know.

Forbes was kind enough, though, to include a slide show of It Bags, for your viewing pleasure.

Who Says Handbags Aren't Art?

2008-02-28T07:17:00.001-08:00

Chanel has commissioned about 20 artists, including Yoko Ono and the Japanese photographer Nobuyoshi Araki, to produce works for an art show with works loosely based on its famous bag. It will circulate around the world over the next two years after launching in Hong Kong.

NYC Shut Down 32 Vendors of Fake Goods

2008-02-27T08:25:00.001-08:00

Counterfeit goods are bad not only for the luxury business, but apparently it links to organized crime as well.

Today 32 shops were closed down, a civil lawsuit was filed against the property owner — the estate of Vincent Terranova — and more than $1 million worth of counterfeit goods were confiscated as a result of the more than 40 undercover shopping sprees in the Canal Street area of Chinatown.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg held a press conference in front of one of the Chinatown malls where stores selling fakes were closed. Bloomberg said that the sales of counterfeit goods cheated the city of $1 billion in sales tax a year and led to money laundering and bloody turf wars. “It is organized crime,” he said.

Peter Belisi To Expand To Handbags

2008-02-26T10:45:00.001-08:00

He started out in neckties and scarves, but it seems that Peter Belisi will be expanding to handbags very soon.

The Florida-based designer is also opening a private label retail store which will house his his wares which focus on vibrant Palm Beach colors with Italian-inspired design.

Diane Von Furstenberg Joins The American Express 'Are you a Cardmember?' Campaign

2008-02-19T09:58:00.001-08:00

Diane Von Furstenberg will be the newest face of American Express' 'Are You A Card Member' campaign. The first television spot will debut during the 2008 Academy Awards on February 24th on ABC.

The commercial opens with a collection of personal scenes around Von Furstenberg’s home and in her studio as she reveals how through fashion, she became the woman she wanted to be. It was directed by Bennett Miller, who directed "Capote" in 2005. Von Furstenberg’s national campaign will include a print advertisement shot by photographer Annie Leibovitz.

The Middle Class Millionaire, As A Concept

2008-02-19T09:11:00.001-08:00

Much attention has been paid on this blog to aspirational shoppers, but Forbes.com has a piece that explains exactly what a Middle Class Millionaire is. I've know people who referred to themselves as Garden Variety Millionaires, (seriously) and I suppose the two terms are interchangeable.

If you're about 58 years old, married and have a business or two that has earned you between one and 10 million dollars, you can consider yourself a Middle Class Millionaire. You can live comfortably and indulge in niceties such as yoga rooms or $35,000 handbags.

In the meantime, the rest of us will get back to work.

The Clutch Bag, Now For Daytime!

2008-02-19T08:15:00.001-08:00

I love a clutch, so I was pleased to see this piece in the International Herald Tribune about how designers are creating clutches that are meant to be used during the day. (And can hold more than just a lipstick and a compact.)

For example, Yves Saint Laurent has the "Belle de Jour" bag which is designed to hold the day's needs. Other designers are making them more carry-able, so that wearers don't have to shove them under their arm, as you do at parties.

January Retail Figures Rise

2008-02-13T09:41:00.001-08:00

Just when the retail industry thought it was in a slump, out pop the January retail figures.

U.S. retail sales rose 0.3 percent in January, a government report showed. The rebound in sales was largely driven by improved vehicle and clothing store sales and an increase in turnover at gasoline stations. These were the strongest gains since November.

"The rebound in clothing sales suggests consumers responded to retailers' tantalizing incentives last month, as many retailers slashed prices in a bid to pare their inventories," the article says.

"Economists said sales of jackets, suits, jeans, dresses and other fashion accoutrements may also have gotten a lift last month from Christmas gift cards. "

For India's Trendy 'Brand Freaks,' Gucci Trumps Gandhi

2008-02-12T08:17:00.001-08:00

India is becoming one of the fastest-growing luxury markets, thanks in large part to new malls that are springing up in wealthy areas.

This is a great piece about how this new wealth and materialism fits in -- or doesn't -- with some of the ideals the older generation has about thrift and simplicity. Don't forget: Ghandi wore only a loincloth when he shattered the British Empire.

Dior Sales Up 9% in 4th Quarter

2008-02-12T07:41:00.001-08:00

Dior's 60th anniversary has translated into profits for the luxury retailer. The company posted fourth-quarter sales gains of 9 percent.

The company says they are phasing out some of its "access" items, such as logo accessories and focusing on more expensive items such as crocodile bags and Christal watches.

Dior is looking at emerging markets in countries such as China, Russia and the Middle East.

New York Does Not Heart Gucci

2008-02-10T18:01:00.001-08:00

Gucci was all a-twitter this week over the opening of its new 46,000 square feet flagship store. They even created a special "Gucci Loves New York" logo, a take off of the iconic "I Love New York" logo that was created 31 years.

It seems that no one in the Gucci legal department ever contacted Empire State Development, the company that controls the rights to the I Love New York logo. The two companies plan to meet this week and work out some sort of arrangement. There are far too many handbags and accessories at stake not to.

China’s Luxury Retail Rethink

2008-02-09T19:02:00.001-08:00

It's common knowledge in retail that China is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world. There are a lot of reasons for this, partly because of the summer Olympics and partly because they're a burgeoning capitalist economy.

It's possible, though, to have too much of a good thing. This article explores the idea that despite all fancy new shopping malls in China, not all of them are doing well. Part of that is due to their locations: it seems that the farther a new retail outlet is from downtown the less likely people will make the trek to check it out. The other issue is that China's elderly population prefer to shop locally and are a hard sell for sell luxury retailers.

Gucci Loves New York

2008-02-09T17:32:00.001-08:00

Gucci opened a new store here in New York City this week. There's been lots of fanfare, including a star-studded, $2,500 a plate charity dinner hosted by Madonna at the United Nations.

Forbes has a great interview with Gucci Chief Exectuive Mark Lee that actually gives a lot of insight into the brand and where it's headed in 2008 and beyond.

Most intriguing about the new store, at least to me, is the Heritage Room, which is a mini museum on the ground floor of the new shop.

Opportunities for Luxury Marketers Can Be Found Amidst the Gloom

2008-02-08T08:39:00.001-08:00

The forecast for the luxury market in 2008 may seem a little dreary, but a new study finds that there may be some opportunities among all the economic worry.

A new white paper published by Unity Marketing predicts challenging times ahead for many luxury marketers through the November 2008 Presidential elections, based upon their latest quarterly survey of 1,300 luxury consumers about their attitudes and luxury purchases.

There are bright spots: opportunities are seen in luxury domestic travel and cruises, home remodeling as well as in the world of fashion.

'It' Bag Returns at Fendi Relaunch

2008-02-06T11:25:00.001-08:00

Fendi started the It Bag craze back in 1997 when they launched the Fendi baguette. Over ten years later the baguette is coming out of hiding, but in a slightly different incarnation, as the 10 + bag.

The 10+ bag was introduced this fall, as a small white canvas bag accompanied by 10 color markers. More of the bags, in a variety of colors, will follow this spring. The release coincides with the reopening of Fendi in Beverly Hills last month after extensive renovations.

Gap Launches Limited Edition Mulberry Bag for Valentine's Day

2008-02-04T13:39:00.001-08:00

Gap and stylist Katie Grand have partnered with British luxury handbag brand Mulberry to create a new version of Mulberry's iconic Roxanne bag for the Gap RED collection.

The bag was first released in England and Paris on December 1, 2007 to commemorate World AIDS Day. The bag is now being launched in the U.S. The Mulberry Roxanne bag has been reworked in sweatshirt jersey and will be available in both red and gray.

The bags will be sold beginning February 6th, 2008, exclusively at the Gap store on 680 5th Avenue at 54th Street in NYC.

50 percent of profits from the sales of all Gap RED items goes to the Global Fund, to help eliminate AIDS in Africa, with a focus on providing anti retroviral drugs to women and children.

Try Some Chambord Drinks

2008-02-04T09:58:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I happened to snag a table by the bar in the tents just as the Chambord people were handing out free samples of their elixir. The drinks were great (if not a little strong) and the publicists forwarded me recipes of exactly what I was imbibing.

Try some of these out. They're quite good.

Chambord French Martini
1 1/2 parts vodka
1/2 part Chambord
1/2 part pineapple juice

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass.

Chambord Walk
1 part vodka
1/2 part Chambord
Club Soda

Shake first two ingredients with ice and strain into ice-filled rocks glass. Top with a splash of soda and garnish with a lemon wedge.

French Manhattan
2 parts Woodford Reserve bourbon
1 part Chambord
Dash of bitters

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a cherry.

The Bags Of Fashion Week

2008-02-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

I spent Sunday afternoon loafing around the tents and checking out what kinds of bags everyone was carrying. Enjoy!

In The Tents...

2008-02-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

I'm in the tents right now stalking people who have great bags. I am not kidding.

10 Things You Didn't Know About Fashion Week

2008-02-01T08:15:00.001-08:00

Forbes.com has item today about things you might not know about Fashion Week, such as why the shows are in Bryant Park, who shows in New York as opposed to Paris and Milan and how much a show can cost.

For Fashionistas, Membership Has Its Privileges

2008-01-31T08:37:00.001-08:00

American Express is in the New York Fashion Week game. The card company will launch the American Express Fashion Network on February 1st, an online home for members to view the shows as well as interviews with designers and industry insiders.

Card members in New York can view the shows from the elevated suites inside the tents, while enjoying behind-the-scenes perks such as makeovers from stylist, cocktails, appetizers and meet and greets.

Also launching is Fashion 360 Presented by American Express, the first fashion channel on YouTube that will have highlights from the American Express Fashion Network.

Alice Temperley Fashion Week Preview

2008-01-31T07:58:00.000-08:00

Handbaggery is technically a blog about handbags, but with Fashion Week approaching I've found lots of cool videos from Vogue's You Tube site. Today they posted a segment of Alice Temperley talking about her new collection.

Coach Signs Deal To Open Russian Stores

2008-01-31T07:44:00.001-08:00

There's no shortage of Coach news on this blog, probably because there's no shortage of news from Coach.

The designer announced today a deal to open 15 stores in Russia over the next five years. The first store will open in Moscow in April.

Where Are Luxury Goods Really Made?

2008-01-29T07:48:00.001-08:00

It's no secret that much of fashion is made in China, but for people who love designer handbags and similar luxury items, they like to think that their goodies are being made in Italy or France by a skilled atelier. For some items, such as Hermes Birkin bags and Chanel suits, there is no need to worry since they are made exactly as they have always been.

Other brands are not as forthright. It seems that European Union labeling standards are not what they are in the U.S., and a $500 bag that a consumer thinks is coming from Europe is really put together outside Hong Kong.

This piece from The Guardian explains how this happens and what businesses plan to do about it in the future.

WSJ Plans Luxury Quarterly

2008-01-29T07:34:00.001-08:00

If you need more of a style fix than simply the New York Times' T magazine, it seems that The Wall Street Journal plans a similar luxury magazine insert in the coming months. Tina Gaudoin, formerly of the Times of London, among other places, has been tapped to helm the endeavor.

Saks CEO Sadove Bets On Luxury

2008-01-28T14:03:00.001-08:00

Imagine that: The CEO of a luxury brand backs the business even in times of economic uncertainty.

I'm not being smug, just pointing an interesting piece about where Saks chief Steve Sadove sees the company headed: more renovations, fewer new stores and focusing more on their core shoppers: wealthy people in their 40s, as opposed to younger shoppers. They're also upping the amount of Chanel and Gucci in their, stores, which is always a good thing.

A buyout could also be in the future. Bauger Group, an Icelandic company that has stakes in etailers as Britain's House of Fraser, has its eye on Saks.

Tightening The Alligator Belt

2008-01-26T16:21:00.001-08:00

The New York Times' Sunday Styles often has a lot of unintentionally funny articles. This weekend there is a piece about how New Yorkers are cutting back on certain luxeries in this weak economy, all in order to feel richer, even though they aren't actually poor.

This is my favorite quote from the article:

"Additionally, Jeff Greenberg, the director of the social psychology program at the University of Arizona, explained in an e-mail message that frugality “will generally be with regard to products and services that don’t undermine the individual’s material bases of self-worth and prestige. If a person’s self-worth is invested in his/her car, wardrobe, apartment, ability to send their kids to private school, etc., they will cut corners in relatively invisible ways that don’t affect their self-worth to preserve those things.”

Or as Rachel LeMaster, 29, a grade-school music teacher who lives in Washington Heights, put it: “A lot of what you spend goes toward showing other people what you have.”

Tommy Hilfiger Puts IPO On Pause

2008-01-26T09:05:00.001-08:00

Layout - Tommy Hilfiger

2008 was to be the year of big fashion IPOs, but at least one designer, Tommy Hilfiger, has decided to put those plans on ice until the economy is a little more stable.

The move could also prompt a rethink at other brands, such as Prada and Salvatore Ferragamo, which were planning listings in Milan.

China To Be Coach's 'Third Leg" After U.S. And Japan

2008-01-24T08:57:00.001-08:00

Coach's U.S. sales may be floundering, but that doesn't mean the company doesn't have its eye on the prize. Reuters is reporting that the company aims to grow its Chinese network by more than 60 percent and open its first 15 stores in Russia over the next five years.

Coach now runs 15 stores in mainland China, 14 between Hong Kong and Macau and 20 in Taiwan, generating $100 million in sales annually. The average Coach bag costs just over $300, about one-half the price of its European rivals.

The company expects revenue to jump a third to $150 million by 2010 as China's hunger for status symbols explodes.

The Not-So-Affluent Society

2008-01-24T08:24:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Coach released figures that revealed that although its outlet stores were doing well, sales overall were down. That same day, Starbucks reported that they would likely bring back their $1 cup of coffee.

Portfolio has a great piece about how the weak economy will hit middle American before anyone else. People who were used to indulging is $200 jeans and frothy coffees may not find themselves in Levi's sipping Maxwell House.

Coach Earnings Up On Factory Sales

2008-01-23T07:49:00.001-08:00

I wrote a piece in The Huffington Post yesterday about how in a sinking economy, outlets and discount stores will likely come out ahead in a weak economy.

Sure enough, today Coach reported that profits for its fiscal second quarter jumped 11%, as strong sales at factory stores offset weak retail store performance. Interestingly, upper-end handbags still performed well, as is often the trend.

So, as I suggested in the Huffington Post piece, people may not go to the mall for their $500 handbag, but they will try to get it cheaper at an outlet.

How To Write 'Handbag 'In Chinese

2008-01-22T10:02:00.001-08:00

As if learning Chinese didn't seem hard enough, check out this short video about how to write 'handbag' (ti bao!) in Chinese. It might come in handy the next time you're on Canal Street.

Handbaggery Will Be At Fashion Week!

2008-01-22T08:25:00.001-08:00

I got word late last night that Handbaggery was OK'd for press credentials for Fashion Week. This is the best news I've gotten all week!

I don't know what shows I'm going to yet, but if you are a PR person reading this and can get me a seat for your show, I would love to go because I will be blogging from the tents.

Thinking Twice About That $400 Handbag

2008-01-19T16:25:00.001-08:00

D&G Corner at Luxury Mall

The New York Times' Week In Review has a piece that examines the decline of "aspirational luxury." After slow holidays sales, companies such as Tiffany's, Coach and Nordtrom have seen a decline in sales, mostly because middle class shoppers didn't buy the expensive handbags and gems that they had in years past.

The writer believes that until people feel more stable about the economy, the may be forced to downgrade to more affordable brand in lieu of their luxury counterparts.

Not everyone, though, is convinced that aspirational shopping is a thing of the past.

“The trading up phenomenon is quite recession-proof,” author Michael J. Silverstein said. “It might slow. But it’s way too early to say it’s over.”

Handbags.com Gals Discuss 2008 Styles

2008-01-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

Oh, to have a constantly changing closet full of designer handbags. For the gals at Handbags.com, it's very much a reality.

The following video is a casual conversation between two staffers as they peruse a wall of bags for 2008. Some of the bags are great, and I love how the two ladies turn into mush at the mere mention of Marc Jacobs.

Chinese Charged Over Fake Handbags

2008-01-18T09:00:00.001-08:00

I'm always amazed by the vigor with which the authorities go after people who bring counterfeit handbags into this country. Three Chinese were recently arrested for bringing millions of dollars worth of fake goods into New York. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents began investigating the alleged scheme five years ago, after raids turned up counterfeit goods.

Authorities call it one of the largest counterfeit operations ever discovered. There were over 300,000 bags and wallets with names like Burberry, Gucci and Coach.

Bagaholics On You Tube

2008-01-18T08:22:00.000-08:00

People (mostly men) sometimes ask me why I spend so much time working on a blog about handbags. I try to explain that handbags are, to some women, like religion. They're an obsession or maybe they fill some sort of emotional void in their lives. (Better bags than burgers, I always say.)

All over YouTube there are videos of women talking about their collection of bags. Most are entries for a contest BagBorroworSteal ran a few months ago when they were looking for America's ultimate bagaholic.

This is video is unintentionally funny, especially when the young woman says that the leather on her Louis Vuitton bag is "to die for." Um, honey...it's not leather. It's treated canvas. Everyone knows this. And that's why she's not America's ultimate bagaholic. She also almost said that she was America's Next Top Model. Ha.

An Obiturary For The YSL Muse Bag

2008-01-17T12:58:00.001-08:00

The Los Angeles Times has a very funny obituary to the YSL Muse Bag, what they deem to be the last It Bag.

Like many an It Bag, it was supposedly a limited edition accessory, initially gifted to celebrities but then copied and imitated and found in discount stores.

"There's a backlash because women feel betrayed by the fact that a company calls a bag 'limited Muse_sunglassesedition' and then makes 100,000 of them," says Milton Pedraza, chief executive of the Luxury Institute, a retail research firm in New York is quote in the piece. "That's deadly."

The Emotional Side Of Luxury Retail

2008-01-16T18:38:00.001-08:00

Forbes.com had a piece today about how a recent study by American Express revealed that the shopping habits of wealthy women have changed and that their confidence level about the economy is at its lowest point in the past two years. As a result, women are making fewer shopping trips and more likely to look for a sale.

In effort to combat slumping sales, the story reported that retailers are trying to hone in on the emotional aspect of shopping, and focus on the uniqueness of the products.

"In terms of handbags, the goal is to make the product so compelling a consumer will put another purchase on hold to still be able to buy the bag," the piece says.

Coach, Polo Drop on Analyst Downgrades

2008-01-15T13:09:00.001-08:00

If an analyst says it, then it must be true. Shares of Coach and Polo Ralph Lauren slid to new 52-week lows on Monday after a Goldman Sachs analyst downgraded the luxury retailers over concerns about an imminent recession.

Adrianne Shapira cut ratings on both companies to "Neutral" from "Buy,". Shapira said in a note to clients that Goldman's economics group predicts a mild recession starting around the middle of the year.

Burberry Focuses on Acessories-Only Store

2008-01-15T13:03:00.001-08:00

In an effort to recession-proof its business and get a larger share of the lucrative handbag market, Burberry is experimenting with stores that sell only accessories such as handbags and sunglasses and not its trademark raincoats.

Burberry Icon stores have opened in assorted parts of the Unites States, the latest in Hollywood. The company hopes to close the gap with rivals such as LVMH whose focus on accessories has helped its shares trade at a 15 percent premium to Burberry's own, based on 2009 forecast earnings.

Burberry Posts 3Q Gains

2008-01-15T12:42:00.001-08:00

You just can't keep Burberry down.

The company posted 3Q sales that were up 26%. That includes the three months that lead up to Christmas.

The group saw particularly strong demand on its wholesale side, supplying other stores and concessions, with more restocking and earlier deliveries. Also helpful was the October gift range and the spring accessories, including the Warrior handbag that has gottena lot of buzz lately. Emerging markets were particularly strong, especially in Russia.

Russia, China Seen As Luxury Hot Spots

2008-01-14T09:11:00.001-08:00

The U.S economy might be taking some hits, but other parts of the world are emerging as luxury shopping hot spots.

Russia is well-known as a new hub of luxury, and this long piece examines who some of the home-grown designers are, and how they're evolving. Gone is the stereotype of the Russian woman in head-to-toe designer labels. Instead, it seems that new guard of young fashionistas wants a look that is cleaner and simpler.

Which isn't to say that Russian women don't love a little glamour. "It's women who reclaimed 'roskosh', the old Russian word for luxury," the articles reads.

Another piece examines how luxury retailers are focusing their efforts more in China, which accounts for 37% of the $80 billion sector. The country's massive economic growth and the propensity of Chinese for ostentatious displays of wealth create a perfect market. The pieces note that even junior executives will live on noodles for weeks if it means indulging in a designer handbag or other accessory.

Tiffany's Takes A Hit -- Does The Rest Of Luxury Retail Shudder?

2008-01-13T13:33:00.001-08:00

Tiffany's reported on Friday that the number of purchases at its American stores dropped during the holiday shopping season, which was unexpected for the retailer. Overall, the company posted 4 percent growth during the holiday season, thanks mostly to foreign shoppers who come to the States to take advantage of the weakened dollar.

The article points out, as I often have on this blog, that the higher end customer will continue to shop as they always have. It's the upper middle class, those aspirational shoppers who buy items between $1,000 and $10,000, who suddenly have to choose between the flat screen television and the gems. Cosidering how well some electronics sellers did over the holiday season, it seems that the TVs are winning out.

Earnings reports will continue to trickle in with likely more of the same news. Most economists say that the U.S. won't seen an upturn for at least six months.

The Celine Nautil -- Another Bubbling It Bag?

2008-01-13T13:03:00.000-08:00

There are rumblings that the Celine Nautil bag -- which comes in seven diffrent colors -- could be an It Bag this year. Though judging from the buzz surrounding Burberry's Warrior bag, it could be an uphill climb.

The new bag is inspired by a previous sack the French luxury house put out back in the 1970s. Compared to other It Bags it is said to be surprisingly light.

You can buy it here in the States for about $850.

A Video Homage To Coach Bags

2008-01-11T13:38:00.000-08:00

There are some very odd videos on YouTube in which people make video homages to their handbags. This is one about Coach bags, set to mellow guitar music. Please enjoy it as you wind down your Friday.

It's True: Holiday Shopping Was A Downer

2008-01-11T10:29:00.001-08:00

The internet is abuzz today with holiday retail figures -- and none of them are merry. Retailers took a big hit across the board thanks to listless sales and fears of a recession.

Oddly, higher end stores such as Nieman Marcus posted single-digit gains, according to this piece in Ad Age.

"Neiman Marcus saw a 2.9% increase in same-store sales, with customers snapping up shoes and designer handbags," the story says.

Australian Company Lets Women Borrow Bags

2008-01-11T09:17:00.001-08:00

I always thought that BagBorroworSteal was the only handbag-lending site on the web, but I would be wrong. Like any good idea, the imitators have been quick to follow.

An Australian company with a similar business model but funnier names lets Aussie women borrow the bags the couldn't normally afford -- or don't want to own permanently. Love Me Or Leave Me offers high-end bags to women for a monthly or weekly fee.

British News Show Discusses The Burberry Warrior Bag

2008-01-10T20:04:00.001-08:00

Two British women chop it up about whether the Burberry Warrior Bag is really worth the money. They say no, and encourage women to find a "High Street version" of it. I assume High Street is England's version of Canal Street. Very funny clip.

Saks Fifth Avenue Stock Gets Upgrade

2008-01-10T19:53:00.001-08:00

Retail sales may have reached a five-year low, but Saks Fifth Avenue's stock recently got an upgrade.

S&P Equity Research upgraded the chain based on strong holiday sales, its "sharpened luxury merchandise focus, as well as greater consistency in products and increased local marketing efforts at branch stores."

Turlington, Schiffer Once Again Faces For Chanel

2008-01-10T08:41:00.001-08:00

Karl Lagerfeld is kickin' it old school when it comes to the faces of his Spring 2008 handbags, according to Sassybella.com.

The designer chose 1990s supermodels Christy Turlington and Claudia Schiffer for the two ads. He even shot the ads himself.

Do We Really Have To Ration Handbags?

2008-01-10T08:14:00.001-08:00

The New York Times has a piece today about how stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue have put a limit on how many designer handbags shoppers can purchase.

It's not that the bags are rare. Since the dollar has weakened compared to other currencies, foreign shoppers have been coming to the states and going online to buy the coveted bags at discounted prices, and then reselling them. This vexes companies such as Gucci and Prada, who are trying to expand and reach new markets beyond their home turf.

"Handbag quotas may not be the most effective solution anyway, considering the many ways determined shoppers can get around them — by using multiple credit cards, for instance, or buying from more than one store," The story says. "But the alternative — raising prices of European luxury goods sold in the United States, as many companies have begun to do — risks alienating American consumers, or giving an advantage to American luxury competitors."

Designers Suffer From Canceled Golden Globes

2008-01-09T09:45:00.001-08:00

Since the Golden Globes have been distilled down to a press conference this year, it seems that the Los Angeles economy is going to take a hit. Limos and hotels will not be rented, food will not be delivered and champagne will not be guzzled.

One aspect that may have been overlooked is all the free advertising that designers get by dressing stars on the red carpet. Dana Thomas, the author of Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster, has a great column in The Huffington Post today about how the arrangements between celebrity and designer are made.

These deals, which started back in the 1980s when Armani offered to dress a few stars who needed help, are one of the biggest ways that designers reach the middle market consumer.

Inside CoCo Chanel's Private Apartment

2008-01-08T20:25:00.000-08:00

I am mildly obsessed with CoCo Chanel, and so I was pleased to find this video where Vogue.com went into the private Paris apartment of Mme. Chanel. The place hasn't been changed since her death in 1971.

Are Handbags Indicators Of The Economy?

2008-01-08T19:28:00.001-08:00

Kiplinger's has an amusing piece that raises the question of whether handbags are an indicator of the stability of the stock market and the economy as a whole.

"Historically, luxury goods bubble at the end of a long advance in the stock market," says Paul Montgomery, of Montgomery Capital Management in the piece. When interest wanes in the signature item of an era, it's time for circumspection in the stock market, too.

Their advice is for women to sell their pricey purses now, while they can still get a good sum for them, or wait 20 years or so until their value balloons again -- but as vintage.

Is Burberry's Warrior Bag This Year's It Bag?

2008-01-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

Burberry announced today the release of its Warrior Bag. Prices start at $1,500 (pounds) and goes up to $13,000 (pounds) for one in alligator skin. The company reports that despite the price tag, dozens of women have signed up for the waiting list for the crescent-shaped bag.

Despite industry insiders saying that It Bags are over, the retailer says that handbags still account for 31 percent of its sales.

The Pope Decries Luxury

2008-01-07T18:36:00.001-08:00

Who knew the Pope had an opinion about luxury? From the pulpit on the Feast of the Epiphany His Holiness decried luxury and said that if the world truly wants harmony it has to adopt a sober lifestyle and spread the wealth of the few among the many.

"The conflicts for economic supremacy, and the scramble for energy and water resources and raw materials render difficult the work of all those who strive to construct a more just and united world," Benedict said.

While his points are valid, it wasn't long ago that the pontiff was photographed wearing Prada slippers around the Vatican.

How Louis Vuitton Trunks Are Made

2008-01-06T17:39:00.000-08:00

It's in French, (choutte!) but it's amazing to watch.

Recession? The Wealthy Know Not Of What You Speak

2008-01-06T17:13:00.001-08:00

As economists grumble about a looming recession and the middle class braces for even higher gas prices, the million and billionarires of the world are spending like it's going out of style.

The Palm Beach Post has a piece about how $100 million asking prices for mansions in the Florida enclave are the norm and how beach-front property is just as popular as ever, despite a lull in the housing market nationwide.

The article reinforces what analysts have been saying for weeks -- that luxury retailers will likely lose many of the aspirational shoppers that have kept them so flush for years, but will always have the truly high-end shoppers that they built their businesses on.

That means, for instance, that cheaper, $1,000 handbags and similar items may become discounted, while the higher-end and custom items will still sell steadily.

Forecast For Luxury Handbags in 2008

2008-01-06T16:11:00.001-08:00

The Boston Globe has a piece about the state of the desginer handbag industry, and how it may not be as flush this year as in the past.

The piece predicts the industry will only grow about 4% this year, as opposed to 8% in 2006.

One point that they makes is that handbag sales are faling among aspirational shoppers, those who typically makes less than $100,000 a year. This is a large reason why Coach's stock hit a 52-week low recently. When the economy warbles, these shoppers are the ones who most likely won't buy a fancy bag.

High net worth individuals, though, seem unlikely to be affected by economic woes and will purchse as they usually do, according the Globe.

A Profile About Lana Marks

2008-01-03T20:44:00.001-08:00

Lana Marks is a true luxury name in the world of handbags. Her pieces, which are made from genuine American alligator, as opposed to blends of crocodile from other countries, are all one-of-kind pieces and highly coveted.

This is a great profile about Ms. Marks, how she got her start and how she is expaning around the globe, most notably in Dubai, the shopping mecca of the Mideast. Marks' Cleoptatra Clutch with diamonds is expected to be a top seller in that market.

How To Spend Those Luxury Dollars

2008-01-03T19:23:00.001-08:00

A little luxury never hurt anyone, but deciding where to spend your sheckles can be a hard decision to make. Handbags seem like an obvious choice, but there is always the fear that the bag you love today could be dated tomorrow. Quelle horreur!

Thank goodness we have The Chicago Tribune to help us sort it all out. They recently put out a piece to help Chicagoans decide where to get the most bang for their luxury bucks. It Bags are frowned upon for lack of staying power, but encourage shoppers to indulge in evergreen items, such as an Hermes watch.

Some of the suggestions are very Chicago-land centered, but they get points for suggesting to check out the re-emergence of vintage fashion house Vionnet, which re-launched two seasons ago.

CoCo & Me

2008-01-03T19:07:00.001-08:00

Forbes.com has a wonderful essay by James Brady about his relationship with CoCo Chanel. Apparenty he and his wife were good friends with the fashion legend as of 1961 when he was Fairchild Publications bureau chief in Paris.

The story comes as rumors circulate that the Lifetuime television is working on a mini series about Ms. Chanel, which will star Shirley MacLaine.

Brady's piece is a wonderful homage to Chanel, who died at age 87, leaving behind no heirs besides her stable lanky models.

An Academic Looks At The Roots Of Trends

2008-01-03T18:38:00.000-08:00

Trends, especially in fashion and accessories, are a fact of life. One might wonder where these trends start, but that can be a vague point to explore.

This link from Anatomy of a Trend by Henrik Vejlgaard takes an academic look at how trends begin. It somehow manages to incorporate Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, It Bags, the roots of hip hop, Tommy Hilfiger and .

Chinese Flocking To Designer Handbags

2007-12-27T19:23:00.001-08:00

As the Chinese economy booms, more people enter the consumer class and in turn are drawn to status symbols.

That said, handbags are quickly becoming objects of desire and are becoming increasingly popular.

It's yet another example of how European fashion labels are capitalising on the boom in demand for luxury goods from China by setting up branches in Beijing and Shanghai.

Indian Government Embraces Plan To Promote Luxury Brands

2007-12-26T17:34:00.001-08:00

In yet another sign that India is a burgeoning market for the luxury industry, the Indian government plans to promote top-end retailing by setting up designers’ streets and arcades in major metropolitan areas.

The plan would also promote local artisans and help them give a designer touch to their creations. This is partly because there has been greater global recognition for Indian designers like Ritu Beri and Manish Malhotra who have showcased their creations at ramps in Milan and Paris

Among the first to take advantage of idea is global luxury powerhouse — Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) — which has expressed its interest in parking up big money in the sector.

MasterCard Advisors' SpendingPulse Report

2007-12-26T10:51:00.001-08:00

Well Spent Money
Originally uploaded by Vinie:)

The post-holiday spending reports are slowly trickling in, and it seems that despite a mid-December slump, the luxury market rallied in the end to post small gains, depending on how you calculate the final numbers.

MasterCard Advisors' SpendingPulse, a macro-economic report tracking retail sales on a national basis, said that U.S. sales for the period between Black Friday and December 24, rose by a seasonally adjusted 3.6% compared to the same period last year. This included all sectors, such as Women's and Men's Apparel, Electronics, Speciality and eCommerce.

The Luxury category included high-end department stores, apparel, leather goods and restaurants. According to the report, luxury goods, ex-jewelry, posted a 7.1% growth from last year, helped by a 10.8% increase in the mid-season gain.

The Wall Street Journal story reports that since December sales expectations for retail were down overall, this means upcoming deeper discounts. For example, Overstock.com Inc. is offering free shipping on purchases through the end of the month. Macy's e-mailed customers about discounts of 20% to 65% on its Web site. Shoppers at Victoria's Secret who buy one bra can get a second bra half off today and tomorrow.

Private Jewelry Parties A New Outlet For 'It' Items

2007-12-26T10:31:00.001-08:00

There has been grumbling for years that 'It' bags are slowly losing their luster because they quickly get knocked off or are available at every corner department store.

For fashionistas looking for something truly unique, many are checking out private jewelry events, thrown by designers in an effort to generate buzz about their items. Sure, there are celebrities (some paid to be there) but these intimate events are a new tactic in the competitive luxury market.

Sydney Morning Herald Handbag Editorial

2007-12-26T10:19:00.000-08:00

I found this rather funny editorial in The Sydney Morning Herald that explores why women love handbags as much as they do. The author doesn't make any overwhelmingly new points, but she hits on all the bigs ones: handbag are easy to buy, they are instant status symbols and fashion houses keep churning out new one like candy to children.