Archive for December, 2009
Louis Vuitton Monogram Velours Lurex Pochette Kali
Monogram Velours Lurex Pochette Kali measures 8.1″ x 5.2″ x 1.9″, available at Louis Vuitton stores for US$1320.
Images via Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton Maison One Central, Macau: Exclusive Products
This prime location best reflects its proximity to some of the most glamorous gaming and hospitality / resort establishments, the new Maison, the first in the city carrying ready-to-wear, welcomes customers with ultimate luxury and exclusivity.
Leading the way is the new special-order Casino Trunk — first introduced in Macau and Las Vegas — which truly represents the founding spirit of the Malletier and the enclave’s stature as the world’s most thriving destination of entertainment, hospitality and dream. The product will be exclusively pre-launched at One Central Maison for the opening.
Equally captivating are the Stresa bowling bag and the Eva shoulder-bag-cum-clutch in Damier Azur are stylish and versatile, while the relaxing holiday moods stemming from Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) connotations fittingly echo the romantic escapism of “Monte Carlo of the Orient”. These 2 new styles will be exclusively pre-launched at One Central store.
Other highlights that will be launched globally include the Pochette Milla MM trimmed with luxury mink and Pte Monnaie in shiny Vernis leather with snowflake embossing and linked with sparkling charms, both perfect stories to mark the opening as well as ideal choices to celebrate the upcoming Christmas.
The opening of One Central Maison also features an exceptional selection of Louis Vuitton’s watches and jewellery. Taking the lead is an exclusive version of the brand’s iconic Lovely Cup model – Tambour Large Chronograph Lovely Cup with Blue Sapphires. This large size limited version has its horns paved with approximately 40 blue sapphires and 12 on its flange. The combination of blue sapphires and white mother of pearl dial makes it sporty yet luxurious and remains a strong reference to the brand’s link to nautical sports.
A new collection to inaugurate the opening is Louis Vuitton’s Tambour V timepieces. Watches are available in pink-gold or pink-gold with diamond construction with a lacquered dial face inspired by the V logo of the House’s historical Steamer Bag. The most glamorous is the full-paved automatic edition whose white lacquer V is sublimed by 1,019 top diamonds weighing 7.85 carats.
Making a grand entrance is Baby Ardentes, the House’s latest additions to the Les Ardentes jewellery collection. The unique and symbolic LV Flower- and Star-cut diamonds take the centre stage of eight designs of necklace and pendant, bracelet, rings and earrings. These graphic and poetic shapes are chiseled in white gold and set with brilliant diamonds. Overshadowing a round brilliant with 58 facets, the two extraordinary LV cut diamonds in 65 to 77 facets magnify the sparkle of these jeweled creations.
An elegant, easy to wear limited Empreinte Pink Gold Pendant with a diamond will also be launched to celebrate the auspicious opening. Louis Vuitton’s iconic pendant is available in pink gold for the first time. Its skeletonised flower motif at the heart and nail imprints represent strong reference to Louis Vuitton’s traditions.
Images via Louis Vuitton
Nomi Network: “Buy Her Bag, Not Her Body”
I learned of Nomi Network through a good friend, and knew I had to find out more about an organization with such a profound cause. Based in New York City, Nomi Network is a non-profit, anti sex-trafficking organization that aims to eradicate sexual slavery by leveraging the fashion creation/fashion consumer marketplace. Nomi partners with local artisans in Cambodia to create chic and sensible products that appeal to the global marketplace. Nomi Network’s unique business model aims to leverage the fashion industry by affecting product supply chains in order to fight sex-trafficking through sustainable economic empowerment.
On September 15, Nomi Network launched its first product, a line of colorful eco-friendly totes. Purchased products generate awareness and support job and career training for survivors of sexual trafficking in South East Asia. It also gives supporters and globally-conscious fashionistas an opportunity to put an end to sexual slavery by sharing this powerful message with the world. The creation of these totes provide stable and well-paying job and career advancement opportunities for stigmatized ex-slaves and women at-risk, helping to end a destructive cycle of poverty.
The production of Nomi’s signature slogan totes are produced with assistance from the social enterprise Hagar On Time (HOT) in Cambodia. HOT has been dedicated to employing victims of sex trafficking since the late 90’s. Through the order of Nomi’s first product line, 750 hours of fair-wage labor was secured for survivors who have been restored and trained through HOT’s sister non-governmental organization, Hagar International.
The tote comes in two styles, an over the shoulder bag that transforms into a single strap tote, and a basic two strap over the shoulder bag that is reversible. Each design is produced in three colors, primarily made from eco-friendly recycled rice bag material. Visit NomiNetwork.org to learn more about getting involved and to purchase a tote that will help put an end to sexual slavery by sharing this powerful message with the world.
Interview with Owner of CelebrityOwned
One of my new favorite haute shops is CelebrityOwned, an eBay store that features 100% authentic designer women’s handbags, shoes, clothing & accessories from labels like Hermes, Balenciaga, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, and many more. Located in Westwood, CA, CelebrityOwned’s merchandise comes from Hollywood stars, designers & producers. After spending several nights browsing CelebrityOwned (it takes several visits to see everything), I decided it was time to share these fantastic deals with the world. I had the privilege of interviewing the woman behind CelebrityOwned, Dana Weinrot.
HR: When did you launch CelebrityOwned?
CO: I launched CelebrityOwned in 2005. I started it just for fun out of my house but word 
spread rather quickly and I had to get an office quickly as I couldn’t store all the merchandise in my house. The business grew so quick that I kept running out of space and had to move in to larger offices. I am now in my third office.
HR: What made you choose an eBay store over an independent website?
CO: I chose an eBay store because as a new online business owner, you just can’t beat the traffic that eBay sends to you. While its not inexpensive to be a Top Rated PowerSeller on eBay, as the fees are quite high, I still believe it’s worth it solely for the level of marketing that eBay does on my behalf to drive all the traffic to me.
HR: Do you have previous experience as a buyer or personal shopper?
CO: My only previous experience in shopping is being a shopper but once i got hooked on eBay, it became my #1 go to site besides Shopzilla.com when searching for items I was in the market for. There are just so many great deals out there, there is no reason to pay top retail prices anymore.
HR: It’s obvious that you have a keen eye for style. How do you select the merchandise? Are there guidelines for choosing new merchandise for Celebrity Owned? How often do you shop for CelebrityOwned?
CO: Over the years, I have learned what sells the best on eBay. So now I just really try to stick to those brands and items that I know have top resale value. At the end of the day all the credit goes to my fabulous clients and their closets. Without their items, my business would not be the success it is today. The whole concept of my business becomes a topic of conversation between my clients and their friends. That’s really how I get all my new clients. It’s all word of mouth and it’s so amazing how it all works. Quite viral!
HR: What is the most rewarding aspect of having an online store?
CO: The most rewarding part of it all, is that I am able to make so many people happy. Clients and buyers – it’s really a win win for everyone. The clients want some extra cash so they clean their closets, the buyers on eBay want discounts, and I’m right in the middle.
HR: Can we expect a CelebrityOwned storefront in the future?
CO: I think about a CelebrityOwned storefront quite often but I fear change. eBay has become my life and I just can’t imagine starting over. I have an amazing husband, whom none of this would have happened without, and he is the one who normally pushes me to the next level even when I resist it most. So with all his wonderful support, I’m sure you will see a storefront in the future.
Click on the images pictured above for auction details. Visit CelebrityOwned to start shopping for your next designer handbag!
Anya Hindmarch Cathie Wicker Chair Calfskin Hobo
I love a bag with texture! Anya Hindmarch Cathie Wicker Chair Calfskin Hobo is a unique, wicker-like woven calfskin shoulder bag. I really want to know the inspiration behind the design of this bag. It’s different than anything I have seen which is always refreshing. Price: $995 at Bloomingdales.
Cha Cha Monday Handbag Giveaways
Cha Cha was featured back in October as one of our Haute Labels. I have been keeping a close eye on the fabulous collection ever since, and was happy to discover the Monday Handbag Giveaways. Every Monday, Lori is giving away a Cha Cha accessory. To be eligible all you need to do is add your email address at chachalifestyle.com. If you already receive the newsletter, then you are entered for a chance to win every week. Check the Cha Cha Blog every Monday to see what the week’s prize will be. Good luck and be sure to spread the word and follow Cha Cha on Twitter for all the latest updates.
Vlieger & Vandam
I discovered Vlieger & Vandam quite some time ago, and continue to appreciate the original concepts that the Dutch design couple create with each collection. The accessories label based in The Netherlands is the genius collaborative effort of Carolien Vlieger and Hein van Dam. Combining the skills of graphic design and 3D design, their collections are truly a marriage of talent. Vlieger & Vandam introduced a preview of the Spring 2010 collection at Premiere Classe Les Tuileries during Paris Fashion Week, consisting of hand painted bags and accessories, Guardian Angel bags in new colors, lots of little nickel lips and moustaches on small leather goods and a fringe purse with more than one hundred cut out lips attached to the front. Enjoy a special offer in celebration of Vlieger & Vandam’s 5th anniversary. All customers who purchased one or more bags online will receive a discount on a selection of new Vlieger & Vandam SS10 collection. If you ever purchased a bag at the online shop, you will soon receive a postcard with a special coupon code to enter the anniversary website. Visit VliegerVandam.com to view the entire collection. Be sure to follow Vlieger & Vandam on Twitter!
BE&D Sample Sale Dec. 17 & Dec. 18
BE&D is having a sample sale!! Enjoy 30-75% off bags, belts, shoes, and small leather accessories. Special editions of celeb favorites and best sellers include the Kan-Kan Portfolio, Perry Satchel, Garbo Shoulder and Cosette Hobo.
When: December 17 & 18 – 9am to 7pm
Where: 35 West 36th Street, 10th Floor West, NYC
(between 5th/6th Avenues)
For more information: 212 629 3242 or info@beandd.com.
BagTrends + CETTU Handbags Event on Dec. 15
If you’re in the New York area, join BagTrends at the CETTU Handbags Shopping Soiree with Dress for Success. There’s nothing better than sipping wine, mingling & shopping for handbags. Enjoy 20% off and receive a gift with purchase. Bring a used handbag for Dress for Success and receive an additional 5% off.
WHEN: Tuesday, December 15th; 6pm – 8:30pm
WHERE: JMJ West Showroom, 141 West 36th Street, 7th Floor, NYC
RSVP: cettu@bagtrends.com
Space is limited. Must be 21 or over to enter.
Coach Embossed Exotic Ella
When I first laid on eyes on the Coach Embossed Exotic Ella, I nearly fell in love. Is it the color, shape, style, or texture..? I cannot decide which is the most attractive quality of this bag. The embossed leather brings an extra luxe, sleek and modern feel to this structured handbag. It’s the details that matter – outer compartments are always a plus, inside zip, cellphone, multifunction pockets, and fabric lining. Price: $898 at Coach.
