CARRYALLS, ACCESSORIES & GIFTABLES REFRESHED FOR A LIFETIME OF USE
April 21st, 2009
West 26th Street, NYC
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
One of the smartest (inner/outer zipped and snapped compartments/pockets, adjustable shoulder strap, inner key hook),
durable (thick, dark brown Italian cowskin),
and thoughtfully visual (contrast white stitching, solid gold hardware),
bags we own----- a Dooney & Bourke -LUCY BAG is our sturdy everyday hauler. That our nearby straphangers on the subway-often toss off a “nice bag.”
Happily, Dooney & Bourke, an affordable high-end carry-all and accessories company managed to (once again) serve up a versatile and well priced collection for Fall 2009---with a clear editorial viewpoint that we think-further establishes this entity as iconic American brand.
IMHO
There is a D&B hobo, tote, duffle, wristlets, shoulder bag etc for every, any age gal out there…no matter where she might dwell, what she’s doing…or where she’s going…at tagged at sane amounts, given the exceptional quality... (mostly from $100-$300).
PREVIEW HIGHLIGHTS:
The popular Dillen Leather Collection has “been done in a new way” by way of-
Availability in fifteen shades (white with contrasting tan trim, dark brown tmoro with matching trim, etc), and in many silhouettes including the doctor bag shaped Juliette (small and large), and a tear drop hobo. We loved the adjustable canvas shoulder strap…a stylish textured contrast to the leather handles.
“Peter (Dooney-a co-founder) loves to do suede all year round” … a material that “takes color so well.” For Fall 2009 this is wonderfully transformed into a handsome, Lee suede tote with a durable suede bottom in a same or contrasting color..
Palette options -like autumnal tones wine, fir, red, chamois, and moss green- as well as neutrals- punch up haulers that carry the suburban mundane (groceries) or the sublime urban night life accoutrements- the gazillion gadgets, wallet, makeup bags, and extra pairs of shoes we deem crucial to our very existence.
Weather friendly nylon also gets serious play- in versatile totes, satchels, a zipped hobo shaped Erica Sac, a roomy Pouchette, and a large duffle. These will sell well and are far superior to a certain European version that was the “it” bag for awhile.
Dooney and Bourke’s products are also a step-up from similar brands, with the added flourishes of solid leather handles, the signature leather hangtag, and suede bottoms- bumping the selections beyond the casual only category.
The classics looks are “new again” too. Featuring more structure in shape and feel-a welcome relief from all of the oversized slouch carryalls that don’t work for us as we can’t find anything inside.
The Alto line is one of our top choices- with the always chic equestrian influenced Saddle and Horseshoe Flap shoulder bags with handsome strap details. (In black, neutral, red, saddle and brown tmoro) and saddle stitching.
We also think the oversized croc pattern in the aptly named Croco Collection will capture eyeballs. An assortment of shapes and clever accessories are available in a rainbow assortment of colors. We’re sure the print editorial type will feature the Luna Bag (3/4 moon)…in a regular or large size.
Giftables—, most retailing for under $100—like a mini writing journal, planner, etc…are sure to be appreciated by any recipient-male or female…or oneself.
And in a nod to the RTW fashions we saw all over the runways two months ago, a handsome red or navy tartan wool fabric revs up a collection with sizes ranging from zipped cosmetic cases-to a cute pochette- to a large duffle.
A travel set in shiny, rain resistant black patent leather, including the we want it rolling duffle and carry ons –adds pizzazz to local or far flung jaunts…and eliminate the need for that red ribbon we tie on to distinguish luggage from all the look-alikes.
The popular Zebra print is a holdover from previous collections. We actually prefer the new Giraffe pattern however (a Rothschild looking design of black/brow tones) in the tear drop shape.
Eye catching giftables (shopping guide, a key chain…all priced under $100) also work well as standalone items---as amazingly we can see this animal design working with a lot of different wardrobe items we own.
BOLDRINI BRIDLE
The limited edition BOLDRINI handbags are “100% crafted by hand of the finest Italian leathers” by skilled artisans who have cobbling skills in their DNA.
Neither ostentatious nor logo laden like other luxury brands, this special collection is only available in Dooney & Bourke stores. Our favorite shape is the Tabbed Messenger bag, graced with the Boldrini insignia…and seemingly made from one piece of leather.
The cognac, soft pleated satchels (trapezoid shaped) are topped with elegant leather handles with hand stitches along the edges.
The kind of bag that gets silent approving glances from those carrying haulers costing 3x the price.
IN THE WORKS:
A Croc satchel…
PLUS: Handsome stainless steel watches with Swiss parts and oversized faces in matching leather bands. Hefty enough to be a piece of statement jewelry.
Luxe multi-ply cashmere scarves and gloves ...and leather gloves in rich primary colors.
SPECIAL MENTION: Love the PURPLE.
INFO: DOONEY & BOURKE