BagBible

I like the look of this Gustto bag: The color and the hardware are beautiful. However, I’m not so sure about the embossed paisley.  Whenever I see paisley, I’m always thinking of the word “old” and “grandma”.  Maybe my style is too minimalistic, since I rarely like anything with a pattern, unless it is absolutely fabulous. I know Gustto has a plainer version (without the embossed paisley) of this model.

This bag measures 17″W x 10.5″H x 4″D, big enough for carrying your essentials plus some more.  The shoulder strap is always a nice option when you need both of your hands. For the quality, Gustto bags are really well made, just like the other contemporary designers.

You can buy Gustto Fiore from Bloomingdale’s for $645.

Now, as for the similarity with Gucci Hysteria, I wouldn’t say that they are identical twins, but they are definitely fraternal twins, don’t you think?  The shillouete, the hardware, the handles, and the detachable shoulder straps are very similar.  The Gucci Hysteria is a little bit smaller than the Gustto Fiore.  It measures only 15″L x 11.4″H.

I prefer the Gustto hardware over the Gucci because t looks cleaner without the logo.  However, I like the pleats on the Hysteria better.

The Gucci Hysteria retails for $1,695, it is $1,050 more than the Gussto.  I would definitely choose the Gussto since I’m not brand obsessed.  I will gladly wear the lesser brand as long as it has good quality, but I would avoid Target look alikes.  Which one would you choose?

Gucci Hysteria image from Nordstrom

Louis Vuitton Kalahari GM retails for $3,390

As soon as I saw Madonna’s Louis Vuitton Ad campaign, I associated the Kalahari bag that she was wearing with the Carlos Falchi bag.  I’ve seen the Carlos Falchi bag around for sometime.  I even saw it on the sale at Neiman Marcus a while ago.

Carlos Falchi Deerskin on sale right now for $605 on Zappos

The Kalahari Bag from Louis Vuitton is one of their Spring 2009 collection.  Is it possible that the Kalahari design was inspired by the Carlos Falchi bag? In my opinion, the Carlos Falchi bag is the better deal, since it is made of durable deerskin compared to the coated canvas of Louis Vuitton Kalahari.  In addition, the deer skin flap drapes better compared to the coated canvas flap.

Valentino Bow Clutch $895 from Saks available in Brown Metallic and Grey Metallic.

Christian Louboutin Mini Satin Bow Clutch $725 from Saks available in Black and Pink

These two clutches look similar, however I would choose the Valentino Bow Clutch over the Christian Louboutin Mini Satin Bow Clutch anytime.  There is nothing wrong with the Christian Louboutin Clutch.   What sets the Valentino Clutch apart is that it is made of nappa leather while the Louboutin clutch is made of satin. Leather is more durable than satin, plus Louboutin is a fairly new name in the handbag industry (even though his shoes are fabolous). My point is: If you are willing to spend that kind of money for a clutch you should definitely go with the Valentino, which I think is a better deal.  It would be a different story if the Louboutin clutch has a much much lower price.

Christian Louboutin Scoolita Framed Bag $1,495 at Saks
Exquisitely soft calf, shaped and pleated into a graceful shape with a metal-framed top. Double top handles; 7½” drop
– Magnetic closure
– Protective metal feet
– Inside zip and cell phone pockets
– Bright cotton lining
– Signature charm detail
– About 15″W X 12″H X 5½”D
– Made in Italy

B. Makowsky Florence Shopper $238.40 at eBags

Crafted from soft, supple leather

– Double handles with 6-3/4″ drop
– Magnetic snap closure
– Chunky satin gold tone hardware details; B. Makowsky logo; pleat details
– Interior features signature lining; center zip compartment; zip pocket; 2 slip pockets
– 15-1/4″ W x 10″ H x 3″ D
– Made in China

Here are two bags that I think look very similar. I have to admit that I like the Christian Louboutin Schoolita a little bit better. I like the slightly curvier silhouette, the wider bottom, the softer pleat and the subtle gold tone hardware. However, for $1256.60 less you can get something that is almost as stylish with good quality.