Purses content

Credit Cards

Credit Cards

by: Sara Chambers

In the hands of the right consumer, a credit card can be a very useful tool. Unfortunately, the ?right? consumer is rare. The concept of buying on credit, while convenient, actually serves only to line the pockets of financial gurus with millions of dollars each year in finance charges and interest dollars.

What is it about plastic that is so appealing? It?s easy for one thing. Instant gratification is the driving force behind the appeal of plastic. In fact, it?s unusual for most consumers to have real money in their purses or wallets, even the bank provides plastic in the form of debit cards. So now checkbooks seem primitive.

In the last decade Americans have fallen further and further into debt, thanks to the ubiquitous plastic. In fact, the United States government is world renowned for its deepening national debt. Most financial experts agree that credit cards are one of the worst financial ideas ever, leading most consumers into debt well beyond the point of any return.

Credit Card Companies

Leading the march to heavy debt are the credit card companies that spend billions of dollars each year marketing their wares to the American consumer. Especially dangerous are those spenders who are borderline credit-worthy, or who possess no credit whatsoever. These consumers, financial experts argue, are the easiest prey for credit card companies. Everyone wants what the Joneses have, even those with little money to pay upfront. Many consumers are duped into credit card accounts that come bundled with exorbitant interest rates, rates that realistically make it impossible to repay purchases without essentially paying for them many times over.

Experts suggest that all consumers read the fine print included in the offers that come in the mail. Most card offers are financial suicide, at best and should be avoided. For those consumers with poor credit history there are options and counseling available free of charge at most banks.

Building Credit

The ingredients that go into the mix for a good consumer-credit card relationship are: financial savvy, budget awareness, and a realization of the limitations of credit card spending. A consumer conscious of these things is poised to make the best of a credit account, using it to build credit instead of ruining one?s good financial record. Experts suggest that consumers looking to build credit or expand on good credit they have already, should shop for the best credit card deal possible. Most credit card companies are more than willing to waive annual fees and lower interest rates for customers with good credit records. Consumers must be willing sometimes to pick up the phone and discuss their options with the company?s customer service representative. Also, a savvy consumer pays their bills off regularly; they don?t allow large purchases to linger on their account over time. It is this manner of usefulness that makes a credit card a beneficial financial tool.

About The Author

Sara Chambers is a marketing consultant and an internet content manager for http://www.creditcardsweblog.com.

saracham@gmail.com

Designer Handbags are all the rage

Designer Handbags are all the rage

by: Cathy Feldman

Without a doubt, designer handbags are all the rage! Women seem to collect them the way young boys collect comic books. Without a doubt, there is a handbag to suit your many styles and moods, from sophisticated and chic to adventurous and playful. Designer handbags all have unique traits that distinguish one brand from another. Designers purposely create unique symbols or details to accentuate the differences between themselves and other designers.

Louis Vuitton is one of the most popular and best-selling handbag designers. These bags are known for the high standards of quality and state-of-the-art craftsmanship put into each and every design. Elegant, but astonishingly innovative, Louis Vuitton guarantees perfection in his multitude of high quality products. Uniquely branded with a patterned design, Louis Vuitton handbags tower above the competition.

Chanel handbags are well known for their clean lines and top quality materials. The polished chain and bold brand symbol on every bag sets them apart from their peers. The clean lines and simple femininity of these designs makes them both accessible and functional for everyday use or a night out on the town. Chanel handbags are known for their classy designs, neutral colors, and their oh-so-popular brand power. A girl cannot go wrong with Chanel.

Coach handbags are known for their soft, supple, glove-tanned leather. In recent years, Coach designers have evolved to explore various shapes, styles, and materials without sacrificing the principles of classic design. At the same time, there is something uniquely American about these wonderful purses. Coach has developed into an easily-recognizable brand of superior quality handbags.

Burberry handbags are known for their distinctive plaid pattern. Their handbags come in various sizes and shapes, and there is sure to be one to please even the most distinguishing shopper. These purses are designed for a woman that is both strong and sophisticated. Burberry purses have become extremely popular in recent times, especially with younger girls looking to explore more traditional designs.

These are but a few of the designers producing quality merchandise for the masses. There are as many designers as there are purse styles, but you are sure to be pleased with anything produced by the designers mentioned above. They are the giants of the fashion industry right now. With the recent release of their latest designs, you can be the first of your friends to own one. Happy shopping, ladies!

About The Author

Cathy Feldman always wanted to be a famous supermodel. When she is not fantasizing about strutting down the runway with her favorite Gucci purse, she writes for designerhandbags101.com ? an online designer handbag resource, with extensive information on real Louis Vuitton Purses( http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/louis-vuitton.aspx ), Cole Haan Handbags( http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/cole-haan.aspx ), Diesel Purses( http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/diesel.aspx ) and more.

12 Items You CAN'T Sell On eBay

12 Items You CAN'T Sell On eBay

by: Sydney Johnston

Millions of would-be entrepreneurs want to sell things on ebay. eBay is the #1 home-business opportunity in the world right now, so it's natural that many are eager to find highly profitable items for re-sale on eBay. However, it's important to know that there are certain items that can't be sold. Here are a dozen of them ...

Some items are copyright infringement and can actually land a seller in federal prison:

1. Knock offs of music, TV shows or movies. The "bootleg" movies, for example, are often made by guys who sneak a movie camera into a newly-released movie where presumably, they crouch behind a seat and make a crummy copy. There is a large production of these counterfeit items in Asia where US laws have no power.

2. Software and computer games can likewise be copied and their sale is illegal by all US laws.

Naturally, the items above may be sold if you have a copy that you purchased legitimately and no longer want.

3, The so-called "replica" market for handbags, designer sunglasses and clothing is definitely forbidden although these items are often sold in physical stores around the US. Ironically, when attending eBay Live In New Orleans in 2004, we found a store in one of their famous markets selling replica purses that were not allowed on eBay.

4. Lazy and less-than-honest sellers often steal copyrighted material from other sellers. This has happened to me many times and eBay has a program called VERO (Verified Rights Owner) that will remove offending auctions, although there seems to be no penalty attached to the seller, which is unfortunate.

5. Alcoholic beverage sales are not allowed although a beverage "container', especially those of wine, may be sold for its value.

6. Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco or coupons for such items are not permitted on eBay.com.

The Ebay rules for collectible tobacco and alcohol containers are the same:

* The value of the item is in the collectible packaging, not in the wine/tobacco itself.

* The listing description should state that the package has not been opened, but that the twine/tobacco within is not for consumption.

* The collectible tobacco packaging must not be available at any retail outlet, and packaging must have a value that substantially exceeds the current retail price of that wine/tobacco product in the package.

* Sellers must take steps to ensure that the buyer of these collectibles is at least 18 years of age

7. Firearms are strictly regulated by US law and may not be sold on eBay.

8. Satellite and cable TV descramblers are forbidden by the Federal Trade Commission.

9. Animals and wildlife products may not be sold, which includes stuffed birds and pelts from endangered species. There are limited sales of ivory, tortoise shell, marine products and other items relating to animals. This area is quite complex and any would-be seller needs to thoroughly understand the various laws before getting involved in these sales.

10. Event tickets have state-by-state laws that make their sale complex. Some states, for instance, forbid anyone to make more than a few dollars in profit (or no profit at all) on the resale of tickets. For instance, Florida law states that tickets can be resold at no more than face value plus $1. In such states, these regulations apply only to buyers and sellers located in the same state as the actual event, meaning if a seller lives in Florida, he can't profit from ticket sales to Florida events. However, if he lives in any of the other 39 states, this restriction doesn't apply.

11. Listing a catalog of items that a seller offers for sale is forbidden. The only catalogs legally sold on eBay are collectible kinds, such as an old Sears Roebuck or Montgomery Wards catalog that is memorabilia and doesn't offer current merchandise for sale.

12. Raffles and prizes are 100% prohibited. According to eBay, such promotions are highly regulated and may be unlawful in many states.

There are other kinds of merchandise that a seller may not sell on eBay, so carefully check eBay rules before listing anything. It's much better to know the rules in advance of spending money that can't be recouped.

About The Author

Sydney Johnston

Learn how to sell on eBay with 16 hours of online instruction taught by a 10 year eBay veteran. Own an eBay business instead of an eBay hobby.

http://www.auction-genius-course.com

Cosmetic Bag Buying Do's And Don'ts

Cosmetic Bag Buying Do's And Don'ts

by: Julia Brown

A make-up or cosmetic bag is essential for every woman who wants to look presentable all the time. If you shop at department stores or even online, there?s a wide range of cosmetic bags available. The problem is you can?t seem to pick one! That?s what this guide is all about - to give you tips and tricks on how to pick that make-up kit that is suited to your lifestyle. There are factors you should consider before jumping to buy a cosmetic bag. Your personal style, durability and of course, functionality all come into play. Read on to know more.

1. Keep with your own style

Get a cosmetic bag similar in design to the purses or bags you currently use. A cosmetic bag is a woman's ultimate accessory and needs to fit with your entire wardrobe, or a good majority of it, not just what you are wearing at the time when picking out your cosmetic bag at the store.

2. Size matters

If you already have a purse, get a cosmetic bag that is small, portable and can practically fit anywhere. Professional make-up artists and extremely fashion-minded women may need to pick size over style. The Allison Barrett Cosmetic Bag and Bloom Cosmetic Bag are brands that have enough room for most of your cosmetic items.

3. Get functional with special compartments

If the cosmetic bag you choose is equipped with compartments, it will be easier for you to store brushes, concealers and other tidbits orderly and shipshape. Inspect the bag for special compartments - these are usually tough and will keep your things from getting damaged.

4. Make a statement

Cosmetic bags let you travel in style since you can choose an array of designs, sizes and colors. Nylon bags are more popular because it is custom-made with three different appealing designs. You don?t want to be seen with a dingy old purse, would you?

DON'T

1. Overpay!

You can buy a small cosmetic bag from $5.00 to $10.00 or designer bags that may cost up to a searing $100.00 or more. Some bags come free if you buy a whole set of make-up.

2. Choose style over durability.

Cosmetic bags need to be strong and sturdy especially when traveling. Durable types of bags include Europe/U.S. size Conversation and the Wisteria Cosmetic Bag, which is known for its water-resistant lining and vintage feel.

3. Underestimate black

If you don?t have the time to take care of your bag, pick one that is easy to clean to make its shelf life last longer.

4. Put everything in your bag

Choose what things are essential to you. You don?t have to bring a hundred pounds of make-up when going to a party, to work, a girlfriend?s pajama party, or even traveling. Bring the basics - like a tube of lipstick, mirror, blush, a brush, foundation or powder, eye shadow, eye liner and mascara.

Here's a list of essentials every woman should have in their cosmetic bag.

- A tube of lipstick

It can serve as a blush on too that can make you look fabulous in seconds. If you still have space, throw in a lip gloss for that extra shine.

- A mirror, preferably flat and compact for your cosmetic bag

Double sided mirrors are available for $3.00 to $5.00. Its hard to apply make-up without seeing your face right?

- A set of brushes

These are always important for touch-ups. You can buy a complete kit filled with miniaturized brushes that costs anywhere from $5.00 to $10.00. Of course, it is mandatory that you bring eyeshadow palette that you use regularly - buy one with all the colors that you trust. Don?t buy one that you haven?t even tested on your skin. Mascara and eyeliners are also indispensable for those occasional touch-ups.

- Blush

Bringing this along might be quite tricky because most of them come in big sizes. Choose one that is light, flat and compact. This is a basic element for that natural-looking healthy glow.

Remember, your make-up kit is a miniature version of your make-up case. If your bottle of foundation is too big, transfer some to a smaller bottle that seals tightly. Choose compact style mirrors and flat brushes to save space. You can also bring a traveling toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and facial tissues.

About The Author

Julia Brown

For more great cosmetic related articles and resources check out http://cosmeticbag.makeupplace.com.

Confessions of a Designer Handbag Junkie

Confessions of a Designer Handbag Junkie

by: Cathy Feldman

As you are likely aware, I am a designer handbag fanatic. I have been advised by family and friends that this could be developing into a problem, but I am confident that I have it under control. Sure, I have bounced my rent check to purchase a new purse. Who hasn't? There have been times when I have skipped out on my utility bills, so I would have enough cash to buy a new handbag. Who wouldn't?

I have spent countless nights dreaming about shopping for the latest fashionable designs. So what if I want to have Kenneth Cole's babies. I really don't see the problem here. To make my mother happy, I have made the following pledge (ever-so-loosely based on the "twelve step" program):

My name is Cathy, and I am addicted to designer handbags and high fashion. I admit that I am powerless over Prada, and that my life has become unmanageable in certain respects. I have faith that a power greater than Dior can restore my sanity. I have made a pledge to turn my will and my life over to the power of the House of Gucci. I have made a searching and fearless inventory of every handbag on bagborroworsteal.com.

I have made an admission to Chloe, myself, and my friend Sara regarding the exact nature of my wrongs. I am ready for Melie Bianco to remove all these defects of character, and I humbly implore her to remove my shortcomings. I have made a list of all the handbag designers I have harmed with my caustic language, and I am ready and willing to make amends to them all. I have gladly continued to take personal inventory of all my designer purses, and when I was wrong it was promptly admitted.

I have sought through prayer and meditation to improve my conscious contact with Vivienne Westwood as I understand her, praying only for knowledge of her will for me and the power to carry that out. After having this spiritual awakening, I have tried to carry this message other handbag junkies. I have tried to apply these principles in all my erm?..affairs. My name is Cathy, and I am addicted to designer handbags and high fashion.

About The Author

Cathy Feldman is looking forward to her meeting with Kenneth Cole. When she is not dreaming about the perfect purse, she writes for http://www.designerhandbags101.com ? a beacon of light in the world of designer handbags, with information about Balenciaga Handbags, Birkin Bags, Zero Halliburton Luggage and more.

Latest Fashion Trends in Unique Handbags and Purses

Latest Fashion Trends in Unique Handbags and Purses

by: Lynn Donn

If you?re looking for something a little different, there are literally thousands of beautifully crafted unique handbags and purses available for purchase online. If you?re tired of the mass-produced offerings you tend to find at the mall, the online handbag, purse and fashion accessory market is an exciting and exotic new world.

The variety of unique handbag and purse designs keeps getting bigger, better and more innovative all the time, but as with every kind of fashion accessory, interesting trends emerge with every new season. Here is a brief rundown of what?s coming in unique purses and handbags in 2006.

Cloth Purses

Cloth purses are very casual fashion items, so colorful fabrics and whimsical patterns are the strongest trend. If you love bold colors and striking contrasts you?ll have a great time shopping for cloth purses this season.

A cloth purse is mostly a spring/summer fashion accessory, so expect to see warm colors, and light breezy cotton or nylon fabrics. Fresh, summery patterned fabrics with flowers, fruits and ladybugs are always popular.

Also very fashionable is the clever and practical reversible cloth purse. You can literally turn the purse inside out to reveal the alternative fabric pattern, so you have two purses in one.

Monogrammed handbags

Monogrammed bags and purses never really go out of style, and this season we?ll see a huge range of colors, shapes sizes and styles.

A strong upcoming trend is leather sling hipster handbags with elegantly embossed initials or a name. Soft leather is a beautiful fabric for handbags because it?s durable, always very stylish, and it goes with everything. Sling handbags are very comfortable to carry, and perfect either for business or as a casual accessory.

Monogrammed tote bags

Tote bags are the most casual fashion accessory of all, and perfect for the beach, for picnics, or for a little shopping. Monogrammed tote bags are also great for kids to carry their school books or gym clothes, and having their initials or name printed on the bag means they won?t lose it.

Soft cotton canvas is the classic fabric for tote bags, and we?ll see an abundance of canvas tote bags this season.

The big trend for monogrammed tote bags will be big initials, printed across the whole side panel of the bag in big, bold colors. A single first initial of your first name as a monogram has a casual, whimsical kind of feel.

Dog purses

Everyone loves dogs, which is why the fashion for handbags, tote bags and purses decorated with a full panel photo of a gorgeous dachshund, poodle, beagle, yorkie or dalmatian just keeps getting stronger and stronger every year. Dog purses are a great gift idea for anyone whose best friend is their beloved hound.

Custom-made dog purses are also becoming more and more popular. You can have your own photograph of your dog printed onto a handbag, so your bag, like your dog, will be truly one of a kind.

Photo purses

Photo purses are simply ultra-cool, and the most individual and personal of fashion statements. You can have your own photo of anything you like printed onto a purse or handbag, like a special person in your life, your cat, dog or bird, or even your car.

A very trendy idea is to use a romantic old photograph of a relative as a model for your photo purse, so you can cherish their memory wherever you go.

Initial purses

Initial purses are a fashion accessory with a personal touch, and they make wonderful gifts. You can have just about any kind of purse printed, embroidered or embossed with a single initial or set of two or three initials in a wide variety of styles.

As for handbags, leather will be a big trend in the upcoming season for purses. We?ll see lots of small leather purses with a comfortable sling shoulder strap, elegantly embossed with two or three initials.

Cigar box purses

Cigar box purses are another strong trend for the coming year. They?re literally made from a wooden cigar box, fitted with a clasp and a handle, and embossed with an artistic or photographic image.

The most fashionable cigar box purses are decorated with advertising images from the glamorous 1920?s and 30?s. European advertising artwork from that period has a particularly elegant and alluring style, so we?ll be seeing a lot of Cinzano, Cognac and French Perfume labels on cigar box purses.

Hobo purses

Hobo purses can be cool and casual for shopping, or groovy and glamorous to go with evening wear.

Casual style hobo purses come in suede or leather, and soft colors like pastel pinks, beige, cream and white are very much in vogue.

A new look for hobo purses which is on the way in is a small purse in a gold or silver mesh fabric, or even ultra-glamorous sequins and rhinestones. These purses are a new take on the traditional evening purse, and make an eye-catching alternative.

Clutch handbags

Clutch purses and handbags have an elegant, streamlined look, but they?re the perfect size to carry all those little necessities.

The big look for clutch purses and clutch handbags in the coming year will be all glamour. Shiny metallic gold, silver, bronze and platinum shades will be the strong colors of the season, in soft suede leather.

About The Author

Lynn Donn is the webmaster for http://www.unique-handbags-and-purses.com Her website offers tips and information on all the latest trends in purses and handbags for the fashion enthusiast.

Accentuate Your Looks With The Right Purse

Accentuate Your Looks With The Right Purse

by: Ernie Sanders

We're positive that no matter how you see yourself -- trendy, corporate or casual -- your ultimate goal is to look "together" - to look beautiful and elegant in your poise and style of clothing and accessories. You spend hours looking for the right outfit and analyze it many times over to make sure it perfects and gives you that eye catching look. But do you give that same time and scrutiny to your accessories like your purse and handbag before throwing it over your shoulder and leaving the house?

You probably didn't know that a purse can flatten your curves almost as much as the right pair of pants or shirt. Now that we have your attention read on to determine your shape and what type purse you should carry.

Try to choose a purse shape that is the opposite of your body type. While the shape should oppose your body type for maximum flattery, the size of the bag should be in proportion to your figure. If you are tall and thin, look for the large sloppy bags that lay against you to compliment your figure. If you're short and voluptuous, play off opposites by choosing a handbag that is tall and rectangular or long and sleek.

Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.

Take a look at the five basic body shapes and find the best purse for your shape:

? Narrow Top/Full Bottom

If you have full hips or tummy and small top, draw the eye up with accessories. You should carry a bag with short straps that fits snug under your arm.

? Full Top/Narrow Bottom

If the fullness you carry on top is unwanted (some do pay for it, you know) turn the area into a "no man's land". Nothing should cause the eye to linger so draw the eye downwards by carrying long slouching bags.

? Hour Glass

If you got it girl, flaunt it! This shape best describes a woman who is balanced on top and bottom with a defined waist and is considered the ideal body shape. You can carry off anything?lucky lady!!

? Narrow/Top to Bottom

If you are naturally thin, you have always faced the challenges that come with dressing this body shape. If you are unnaturally thin -- by choice -- you probably, prefer to show it off. The key is to add dimension to your profile. Don?t choose a bag that will hug the body too much. Think unstructured, bulky type purses. Try anything with horizontal detail in the patterns.

? WIDE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your purse should be. For this body type, shape and color is important. Colors should be muted, monochromatic is best and prints should be kept to a minimum. Draw the eye to the top or center of the torso with a mid-length strap.

Now you know the right purse for you! Always remember to try on the bag?just like you would clothing and shoes. Remember that where the purse touches your body, that part of your body is accentuated. For example, if the purse is under your arm against your breast, the eye is drawn up to the bag.

So take the time to look for the right purse for you?it?s not always the same purse that your best friend carries. A purse should not only carry your personal belongings, it should add to your style and looks.

You can find more information such as this at http://www.igotyourbag.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=13 to help you decide what type of purse truly matches your body and style.

About The Author

Ernie and Mary Helen Sanders are current retailers of purses for the last 3 years. They spend numerous hours researching trends and styles for women. Visit their site for more information on what purses to buy and wear at http://www.igotyourbag.com.

Counterfeit Handbags and Terrorism

Counterfeit Handbags and Terrorism

by: Cathy Feldman

In most major cities in the world, there is an active and highly profitable shadow economy in phony consumer goods that generates (in some estimates) upwards of 500 billion dollars a year. If have ever been down to "Counterfeit Alley" in midtown Manhattan, you have seen one of the biggest counterfeit marketplaces in the world.

While many of us spend our waking hours lusting after the latest fashion designs from our favorite designers, there are a lot of people out there who purchase knock-off or phony items without fully appreciating the consequences.

I recently read a book called "Knockoff", written by a fellow named Tim Phillips. It was an insightful read, with a number of interesting and often disturbing ideas presented. I was particularly interested in the section he devoted to the trade in phony luxury items such as designer handbags. These days, it seems I can't go anywhere without seeing somebody carrying a fake Prada or Gucci purse. Personally, I have always resisted the urge to purchase a counterfeit purse. I have avoided the temptation mainly because such an action only undermines an industry I have grown to love. When one considers the price of some of the higher-end purses, it should come as no surprise that some people purchase fakes.

What will surprise you is the discovery that their money is supporting future terrorist attacks in America and abroad. This book has confirmed my belief in supporting legitimate companies. Have you ever stopped to consider where the money you spend on fake consumer products ends up? This book will provide you with some frightening insights. The "black market" in counterfeit consumer goods provides incredible resources for criminal organizations, and these organizations certainly do not have the public interest at heart.

One of the most disturbing ideas in the book was the suggestion that terrorist organizations, working with organized crime groups, use the profits gained from these illegal sales to support future attacks. I could not sleep at night if I thought I was supporting terrorist campaigns to maim and kill innocent civilians in America, or anywhere else for that matter. I am a firm believer in being a conscientious shopper, and supporting companies that are trying to make the world a better place. I will gladly pay three times the price of a phony purse, to ensure that my money is not supporting terrorism. Check out "Knockoff" when you have a chance. It is a real eye-opener.

About The Author

Cathy Feldman always wanted to be a famous supermodel. When she is not fantasizing about strutting down the runway with her favorite Gucci purse, she writes for http://www.designerhandbags101.com ? an online designer handbag resource, with extensive information on real Louis Vuitton Purses, Cole Haan Handbags, Diesel Purses and more.

baglady@designerhandbags101.com

Calling All Agents!

Calling All Agents!

by: Aleister Q. Fleming

I have always wanted to be a secret agent! For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be James Bond. I mean?..who wouldn?t? I would love nothing more in life than to sip Martini?s (shaken, not stirred), bed beautiful women (Jane Seymore), and defeat scary bad guys (Jaws) for a living?..not to mention having the best collection of cars and gadgets known to man!!

I travel quite a bit for business (good cover, huh?), and on my last flight home the airline was screening ?Goldfinger?. It is by far my favorite Bond movie, starring Sean Connery. Connery is the consummate Bond. A had a few Martini?s on the flight, and was ready to save the world by the time we arrived in New York.

I realized I had a bit of a buzz as I waited for my luggage. I was hardly intoxicated, but I was certainly feeling no pain. Aye??it?s not easy being a secret agent (inner monologue - thick Scottish brogue). It took a while for my suitcase to arrive on the carousel. To be honest, I was getting rather dizzy watching it go round and round and round again. And out of the blue, I saw her standing there.

I swear to you, on everything I hold dear, that it was her. I couldn?t begin to explain it. I had just seen her on the screen during the flight, and here she was standing beside me at the airport. It was Pussy Galore! I almost dropped my X-Ray specs!!

As Bond-like as possible, I tried to play it cool. It was imperative that I speak with her. Think about the mission. ?Good evening, fair lady?, I said (again, thick Scottish brogue). She smiled and said something I cannot recall. I honestly don?t know what she said, but I am almost positive that I heard what I did.

?My name is Pussy Galore?, I heard. Obviously I responded, as coolly as possible, ?I must be dreaming?. She bent over and picked her suitcase from the carousel, winked at me as she placed her business card in my hand, and strutted away. I just stood and watched as she wandered off into the crowded airport, only once looking back to smile. It all happened in slow motion. Fade to black.

I was shaken awake by the stewardess upon our arrival in New York. I must have fallen asleep, martini in hand, watching ?Goldfinger?. What a strange dream! I looked all around for Ms. Galore as I waited for my luggage. I picked my Zero Halliburton aluminum suitcase, and hailed a cab. I?m sure I was being followed.

About The Author

Aleister Q. Fleming never gives out his real name. Nor does he ever take the same route twice. He carries his Zero Halliburton aluminum suitcase everywhere he goes. You know how he likes his Martini?s. When he is not saving damsels in distress or driving his Aston Martin, he writes absurd articles about trivial nonsense for websites such as http://www.designerhandbags101.com ? a site that offers info on fendi handbags, Versace purses and all things purses.

Designer Handbags 101 - Year in Review 2005

Designer Handbags 101 - Year in Review 2005

by: Cathy Feldman

This has been an incredible year for fashion, in general, and designer handbags, in particular. We have witnessed a phenomenal surge in the popularity of handbags and purses that shows no sign of abating any time soon. Designer handbags have become the must-have accessory for women everywhere. They have become symbols of status and success for a new generation of fashionable women.

This past year has seen a whirlwind of activity centered on the world of fashion. A number of new and upcoming designers have received the critical acclaim they so deserve, and fashion houses worldwide have reaped profits well beyond those of previous years. One significant change we have noted in recent times is that designer handbags are no longer the exclusive domain of the rich and famous. It seems like everyone and their mother is sporting a brand name accessory of some sort.

The popularity of designer handbags has also spawned the creation of an entire industry of replicas and fakes. In almost every major city in America, one can find an extensive selection of knock-off designer purses being sold in stores and back alleys alike. One of the most interesting elements of this situation is that these fake purses are commanding top dollar in certain quarters. The most amusing part of this is that people are actually paying that much money for a product that is not worth a fraction of what it is being sold for.

As expected, we have seen some incredible designs from the design houses of Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. These companies have reined over the fashion world in monolithic proportions for many years, so this should come as little surprise to anyone in the world of fashion. These companies are the pillars of their respective industries. There is no doubt that these companies will continue to do well in the future, but there are a number of talented new designers that are bound to capture some their market share.

There seems to be this rather intense fixation on originality and exclusivity that is no longer the imminent domain of major fashion designers. Some of the new designers we have high hopes for in 2006 include Cynthia Vincent, Kate Spade, and Luella Gisele. They have all had excellent years in terms of exposure, sales, and popularity. These three designers, in particular, are easily deserving of the reverence and respect their work has garnered.

It has undoubtedly been an interesting year for designer handbags and the people that create them. All indications show that the following year will continue much in the same direction. It is refreshing to see so many new designers on the fashion scene, and to witness the support they are receiving from the industry. It will be interesting to see if the handbag craze of this past year will continue. I believe that it will, and that companies like bagborroworsteal.com will have even greater success. So, until next year??

About The Author

Cathy Feldman has given up on her dreams of becoming a famous supermodel, and is content to be an extremely fashionable writer for www.designerhandbags101.com ? a brilliant online resource for information about the trendiest handbags and designers, including Balenciaga Handbags (http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/balenciaga.aspx), Franco Sarto Purses (http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/franco-sarto.aspx), Coach Purses (http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/coach.aspx) and more.