by Celine on March 2, 2010
I don’t know about you guys but I have been enamored with the Chloé Paddington satchel ever since it emerged on the scene 5 years ago. I wasn’t the only one, though, this bag was an instantaneous hit. Along with some sister “It” bags (the Fendi Spy bag and the Marc Jacobs Stam, both of which we’ve covered here on InTheirCloset) the Paddington began to show up everywhere on the arms of fashionable celebrities. I think it was (and continues to be) so popular because of its perfect slouchy shape, roomy interior, and of course that to-die-for hardware. Sadly the Paddington has always been out of my price-range and, due to its popularity, there is really no hope of it ever going on sale.
Chloé Paddington Padlock Satchel
($1.875, NORDSTROM)
Celebrities Love Chloé
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Baghaus “Madeleine” Padlock Tote
Now granted I don’t have this bag in my hand right now, but just looking at the picture I can tell that Baghaus really knocked it out of the park with their “Madeleine” tote. How soft and slouchy does it look? The longer shoulder handle is missing but otherwise this bag looks pretty darn picture-perfect. Available in a multitude of colors (black, brown, beige, bronze, blue, white and pewter), this bag is guaranteed to get you tons of compliments. Personally, I’m loving the beige and brown.
Baghaus “Madeleine” Padlock Tote
($55.95, Baghaus)
by Vahni on February 22, 2010
You had me at “Balenciaga.” Really. No need to add “Giant City Bag,” but since they did, oh…swoon. I’ve loved this species of Balenciaga bag for years, but the supersized, gold-studded version is to. Die. For. Except for the killer price tag, natch.
Balenciaga Giant City Bag
($1.695, Balenciaga)
Celebrities Love Balenciaga
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Handbag Heaven Broad Ripple Satchel
HOT DEAL: Use coupon code WINTERSALE at checkout to receive 15% OFF your entire order!
So I totally dig Balenciaga’s Giant City Bag, but I’m not about to fork over nearly $2K for it. Lucky for me (and you) there are several high-style, low-cost alternatives, starting with this version from Handbag Heaven. And need we remind you that there’s a little special going on at Handbag Heaven? Even better.
Handbag Heaven Broad Ripple Satchel
($53.95, Handbag Heaven)
Baghaus Forever A Squared Handbag
Of the three Balenciaga Giant City Bag look-alikes we’ve featured, the Baghaus versions are my favorites. The Forever A Squared Handbag is synthetic, but the crinkly look makes it totally believable. If you’re anti-leather, it’s a wonderful (and chic) alternative.
Baghaus Forever A Squared Handbag
($49.95, Baghaus)
Baghaus Tara Patrick Tote
Also a strong contender for best (almost) Giant City Bag is the Baghaus Tara Patrick Tote. It’s just like the Forever A Squared Handbag above, except that it is a couple inches larger and has silver hardware instead of gold. Both Tara Patrick and Forever A are also available in other colors.
Baghaus Tara Patrick Tote
($55.95, Baghaus)
by Irina on January 3, 2010
UPDATE: This post has been updated on January 03, 2010. Scroll down to see the new add.
I already said I’m by no means a handbag expert, but even I am acquainted with the Fendi Spy bag. This shoulder bag which is made of ultra-rich nappa leather and finished with woven double top handles, instantly became the “It” bag when it came out a few years ago. All hype aside, I certainly understand why handbag connoisseurs lusted over this delicious piece of arm candy. The design is elegant and versatile and the craftmanship absolutely exquisite. However, not everyone can justify a $2.000 handbag investment including myself.
Fendi Spy Leather Bag
($2.050, Farfetch)
Celebrities Love Fendi
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Baghaus “Spy” Bag
UPDATE (12/31/2009): Found a second, almost identical Fendi Spy bag knockoff by Baghaus which looks so close to the original they didn’t even bother to change the name. Available in black (pictured), brown, mustard, beige and pewter.
Baghaus “Spy” Bag
($49.95, Baghaus)
Handbag Heaven Classic Secret Agent Bag
If you want a great looking alternative for a fraction of the price, Handbag Heaven has a really good and budget-friendly option for all of us who can’t afford the real deal. Their “classic secret agent bag” is an almost identical copy of the Fendi bag, even the name is a tribute. The bag is made of soft leatherette and comes in either classic black, shimmering pewter or a delightfully mustard color. A great gift for your mom, sister, BFF or your own handbag lovin’ self, of course.
Handbag Heaven Classic Secret Agent Bag
($49.95, Handbag Heaven)