Leather Handbags - A Timeless Fashion

by Maxwell Sctott
When it comes to style, nothing speaks louder than Italian quality leather handbags. Good leather handbags – think Italian.

You can have the most stunning outfit, the perfect hair and fabulous shoes, but if you don’t team it up with a classic, fashionable or stylish leather handbag you can let the whole look down. The Italians are synonymous with style. A recent survey showed that the British simply don’t have the right ‘wiggle’ or walk for sex appeal. Walking confidently is down to how you feel, and clutching an expensive Italian leather handbag can make you feel like you’re one of the glitterati.
Timeless leather handbags

Whatever kind of handbags you choose to carry, it’s worth investing in high quality leather handbags that can not only last a lifetime but live through the ups and downs of fashion and its fleeting trends. Classic, stylish leather handbags work with any outfit, so even if it seems like a high price tag, remember that the price per wear means quality leather handbags soon become a good investment.

For a glamorous lifestyle

Many brands of leather handbags are touted by celebrities and fashion icons and good quality leather handbags are synonymous with a certain glamorous, stylish kind of lifestyle or aspiration. The power of handbags, like shoes, shouldn’t be underestimated. And if you want a bag badly enough you’ll convince yourself it will be worth the price tag. It’s hard to flick open a fashion magazine without in-depth analysis of the latest leather handbags and which celebrity is clutching what. Big designer names like Stella McCartney and big brands regularly feature in the glossies. The rumoured future Queen of England – Prince William’s girlfriend Kate Middleton is a fan of Maxwell Scott.

Gorgeous leather handbags

Good quality, well designed, gorgeous leather handbags will always have a timeless appeal. And it’s no wonder women invest so much in the handbags they buy – after all, women carry the most important things in their life in their handbags - from house keys to sentimental mementos and to that life saving piece of gum. So don’t just shove your things into an old saggy handbag. Your handbag is a reflection of you – investing in good quality leather handbags can help give you the style you need – than all you need to do is learn how to wiggle like the Italians and strut your stuff!

Fashion Is In The Handbag

Pietro Alessandro fine leather handbags

from javno

Without her handbag, every woman feels like without water in a desert. And every one of them carries someone`s mystical story with it. This appreciated fashion accessory’s history goes all the way to ancient 1400s when wallets started to be worn. In time, they became fuller and their dimensions increased. These bags with a string became a status symbol.

Thus, men in the second half of the 16th century got pockets for their wallets, while women carried on wearing them underneath their dresses. In the 18th century, after the French revolution, with the sophistication in women`s clothing, handbag appears in its gracious form.

In the 20th century handbags drew attention of many fashion companies and designers (Luis Vitton, Lauer Burch, Judith Leiber, Coco Chanel), and were a great success. They became representative and a part of every woman`s personal style, thus taking form, material, style and colour with each style of individual dressing. Whether these were handbags for a glamorous night out or a sports occasion.

They are made of linen, leather, plastic even. There are many taboos about the closed women`s handbag, to invade it is like to invade someone`s privacy. A typical woman`s handbag includes basic things plus her own spirit. It is exactly this spirit that makes the handbag special. As basic equipment, today we mean: mobile phone, chewing gum, tissues and lip balm.

Handbags became essential for every occasion, and as women became paranoid about theft of the ones in their hand, they firmly fixated them around their waists and necks. By doing so, they made them famous in each occasion, whether it is doing sports activities of on the beach.

With larger consumer supply, handbag dimensions increased. Suddenly, a woman no longer just keeps money in it. It also serves as an exquisite cosmetic purse (lip balm, powder, mirror, lip stick), with at least one copy of current literature, address book, mobile phone, walkman as a walking jukebox…

Trying to unveil Pandora’s box, we opened some handbags for you – look in the PHOTOGALLERY. But, one thing never changes, the secret that lies behind a closed woman`s handbag, we will never discover.

Italian Leather Purses - An Epitome Of High Fashion!

Pietro Alessandro Leather Purses

Italian leather purses and Italian wine have something in common - great taste and great quality and Italian women know the importance of having both in their lives. In fact, you need to have the perfect Italian leather purses for every outfit. After all, when you head out for a night on the town you want to make sure your leather hand bag complements your outfit.

By Sam Curtis

Italian leather purses and Italian wine have something in common - great taste and great quality and Italian women know the importance of having both in their lives. In fact, you need to have the perfect Italian leather purses for every outfit. After all, when you head out for a night on the town you want to make sure your leather hand bag complements your outfit.

Italy is a country that doesn’t do things half way. There women are smart intelligent women who demand a lot from the fashion industry and that includes their leather bags. So no matter what type of Italian leather purses you are looking at you can be confident that they are built with only the best material and the highest quality workmanship.

Italian leather purses are available in an endless number of colors, designs, styles, shapes, and sizes. And they are affordable, an added perk to buying Italian. Plus that means you can afford to grow that collection of fine leather bags. And everywhere you go you’ll look fresh and put together with a classic elegance. You can add a leather purses to any outfit whether you are off to the beach or a romantic dinner. It’s fantastic!

All of us would love to have designer leather bags in our wardrobe but not all of us can afford it, and when you substitute Italian leather, you can count on top of the line quality leather purses just without a name like Prada or Fendi. And you can choose from different colors of leather. Black, brown, and tan are commonly available. You should also be able to find other colors like blue or red.

Almost all boutiques carry Italian leather purses. The trouble is that these are often marked up substantially and thus too expensive. That’s okay. Shop online - there you’ll find a better selection than any boutique could stock and it means you can buy more purses with the money you save. Plus the additional styles will give you more options. For example, leather organizer handbags and leather briefcases are readily available online but not always available in-store.

Italian leather purses will last a lifetime if take good care of them cleaning them regularly with leather cleaner. So when you choose your leather bags, whether it’s a leather tote or a leather hand bag you can count on longevity. And the pricing is far more impressive than what any designer leather bags have to offer.

As a women you know that there are a few rules when it comes to our wardrobe that our guys just have to get used to, otherwise it’s a deal breaker for our relationship. It goes like this. We can own as many pairs of shoes as we want and we can own one purse for every two pairs of shoes. That’s a lot of leather bags so you won’t have to worry about not having the perfect leather bag for your outfit.

When choosing your leather bags consider carefully if the functionality you need is there. It might be tempting to purchase a leather briefcase but is that very functional. Of course, it never hurts to have one in the closet just in case. Try to buy leather bags that are functional so that you use them and show them off. A woman knows that she simply cannot own too many Italian leather purses.

A girl can never have too many Italian leather purses in her wardrobe. After all, there are big ones, small one, blue one, brown ones, tall ones, short ones, summer ones, winter ones and the list could go on and on. Italian leather purses will say a lot about your sense of style and the importance of quality.

2008 Graduation Gift Ideas

When it comes to genuine leather, Pietro Alessandro makes one of the finest moderately priced handbags available on the market. Whether she's into Yoga or an obvious Fashionista, decide the award your girly grad deserves and say "congrats" with an authentic designer handbag for the Class of 2008. You know she really wants a designer purse this year! And, she's all grown up and wants something special. Shopping Online SAVES YOU MONEY! No travel time or gas to buy! Shop from the comfort of home 24/7! All the girls are carrying a new purse to their new job. Your little graduate dreams about a new designer handbag. There are many styles and designs to select in price ranges from under $100 to more than $500. It's up to you. Whatever you pick will be a hit. Some of our favorites are Tano bags, Melie Bianco handbags, Elaine Turner handbags, Pietro Alessandro handbags, Gucci Bags, Prada bags, Fendi bags and many more. And, they are all on Sale! See the coupon codes below and start saving on your graduation gifts for that special gal in your life.

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Graduation is here! She wants a REAL Designer Handbag! Have fun shopping! Here's a series of Graduation Tid-Bits we found amusing and thought you might, too!

Bad Graduation Gift Ideas
by Andy

A Briefcase: Oh, thanks Uncle Frank. You getting me this briefcase ensures that I’m supposed to work the same 9-5 office job that you've worked for that last 25 years while complaining about it and cheating on my wife with my secretary. (Sorry Aunt Jane)

“Planet Earth” on DVD: Am I that hard to shop for? How long did it take you to pick this out at Wal-Mart? Do you think that all I do is get high and watch the Discovery Channel? Well guess what, I DO!

“Planet Earth” on VHS: What? There’s like 20 tapes. Get out of my sight Grandma.

Money: What am I supposed to do with this? It's only four dollars.

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All Sorts of Graduation Ideas
from My Expression

Graduation Party Ideas
The Traditions of Graduation Party -Traditions are the lifeblood of every college. Traditions connect the students to the past of the college while at the same time preparing them for the future. From the historic to the contemporary, traditions can express a spirit of unity and create a sense of community while providing for loads of fun.

Graduation Planning Checklist - Its Graduation time! You’re planning on hosting a graduation party and you want it to be unique and exciting. Planning any party can be overwhelming and many things can go wrong. So, to be on the safer side, you need to come up with a graduation planning checklist to keep things from bouncing out of control.

The Do’s and Don’ts in the Graduation Party - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and what better excuse to throw a party! Spring is that time of the year for graduation invitations, announcements and gifts. Etiquettes and manners form a very important part of our being social animals.

What To Wear on Your Graduation Day - For 12 (in some cases more) seemingly never-ending years, you obediently went through the schoolyard quarrels, your first boy-girl party, your first date, the Prom, and now finally what you’ve always been waiting for – your Graduation day! This time you’re going to be wearing an outfit that your parents will finally approve of – a gown and a cap ...

Decorating your Graduation Party - So, its graduation day and you’re all set to host a special theme party. Yes, theme parties are fun and a whole lot easier to decorate! Half the fun of hosting a graduation party is decorating the party. You can decorate your room, your lawn, you table, and even your guests! You can turn graduation caps upside down and fill them with balloons or flowers ...

Graduation Speeches Etiquette - The graduation ceremony confirms each student’s quest for knowledge. Traditionally, the ceremony will include a graduation speech that seeks to put each and every students hard work (in some cases, not so hard work) into the perspective of their future. Yes, most of us have heard one or more graduation speeches either as spectators or as graduates ourselves ...

Graduation Gift Ideas - The date is fixed, and the invitations and announcements have already been given out. So, the day has finally come for you students to cry and to cheer and to leave your school or college halls forever. Yes, graduation day is indeed one of the biggest days in everyone’s life. After years and years of hard work, your efforts have finally paid off. You’re happy but ...

Chance to Promote Your Business with Graduation Open House Invitations - Do you plan to host a graduation open house for yourself or one of your children? It may not seem like it could work, but you can actually promote your business when you have an open house. You can start the promotion with something as simple as mention that the open house is being hosted by your business. This will definitely ...

Graduation Announcement Tips, Wording, and Special Poems
Graduation Announcement Wording Tips - Graduation is an important time in life, and should be announced properly. Stationary with crayons and graduation caps on it is an appropriate means of announcing a child graduating from kindergarten. A photo announcement is a nice keepsake for loved ones who are being invited to the graduation ...

Graduation Announcements Wording Ideas - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and you’re busier than ever! Your last year of college is filled with thousands of events and activities that you have never even tried to attempt during your college years. From sending out resumes and applications to asking for letter of recommendation, you have loads ...

Do it yourself Graduation Announcements - A great substitute to printed graduation announcements are announcements that you print by yourself on your personal computer. Not only are these ‘Do-it-yourself’ graduation announcements a lot more economical, but they can also be equally colorful and creative. Start of by using plain white card stock or even plain white paper ...

Sending Graduation Announcements - So, its graduation day and its time to let everyone know that you are a proud graduate. Now that all those seemingly endless years of toil and hard work have finally paid off, it’s finally time to celebrate. First things first, start by sending out graduation invitations and announcements to all your near and dear ones. Most colleges and high schools ...

Graduation Invitations in General and the Etiquette
Graduation Party Invitations - Planning the Party - Everyone who has played a role in the life of the graduate should be sent an invitation to the graduation party. It is understood by most that tickets to commencement are limited, however an open house allows for everyone to congratulate the graduate. - Invitations - You can choose informal themes, such as a backyard ...

Graduation Invitations Etiquette - There is a very good reason why people call graduation ceremonies ‘commencement ceremonies’. This is because graduation does not mark the end; it marks the beginning. Graduation is the achievement of all goals, and rewarding the graduate for his or her hard work is a must. Graduation time is the time to invite friends and family together for an exclusive ...

Choosing Graduation Invitations Theme - Whether for you or a friend, Graduation day is one of the most joyous and welcomed occasions in any student’s life. It marks the end of your educational journey that can sometimes seem to be an endless and intolerable journey. Graduation is a once in a lifetime event, so give this event the honor and prestige that it truly deserves. The very first ...

The Traditions of Graduation Cap & Black Color in Your Invitations - When it comes to graduation invitations or stationary there are some traditions that are still observed by most people. In the majority of samples that you look at while shopping you will find that there are graduation caps in the majority of them. This is simply an obvious choice of décor since it is an invitation for a graduation ...

Graduation Invitations Theme
Casual Graduation Party Ideas - If you want to throw a wonderful party for that special high school or college graduate in your life, don’t assume you have to spend a fortune and put together some very elegant get together. After all, your graduate has already worked very hard to achieve this accomplishment and now just needs some time to relax and unwind. That’s why sometimes a more casual ...

Throwing a Cocktail Theme Graduation Party - Graduating from college is a major accomplishment and is definitely one of the best reasons to have a celebration. However, too many graduation parties are all the same. If you want to throw an amazing party, then you’ll want to take a creative approach with your graduation celebration. One idea is to celebrate with a cocktail theme ...

Throwing a Party for Valedictorians and Summa Cum Laude Graduates - Graduating from high school or college is a huge achievement, but if your student is graduating with honors then that achievement is even more deserving of a special celebration. No ordinary graduation is going to be sufficient. Background on Graduation Honors - If you’re not familiar with all of the “honors” terminology, then ...

Black, Red, and Green for Graduation Invitations - Graduations are one of those major milestones in life that deserve not only to be recognized but also to be celebrated. Whether the student in your life has just earned a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or an even higher degree, you’ll want to find a way to show him or her just how proud you are of their hard work ...
Ideas for a Formal Graduation Party - When we think of graduation parties, sometimes we have the impression that all of them are just full of young people drinking too much and playing loud music. And sure some graduation parties would fit that description pretty well, but that isn’t your only option if you’re planning a celebration for a special student in your life ...

Feng Shui Graduation Party Ideas - Celebrating a graduation is a big deal. The family wants to show their pride at how well their student has succeeded. The student wants to know that he or she has done a good job by achieving this important life goal. When you’re planning something this special, then it only makes sense that you should take into consideration every possible way of ...

Creating Tassel as Embellishments For Your Invitations - If you want to create a graduation invitation that is sure to get the attention of those you invite you can do a lot of it yourself. It can be fun to add your own personal touch to it, even if you order the actual stationary and then create a tassel as an embellishment. Everyone associates a tassel with graduation, so this can be a fun addition! If you ...

Clip-Arts for Graduation Invitations - Do you want to add some fun and uniqueness to your graduation invitation but you aren’t sure what may or may not be appropriate? If so, you aren’t alone. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of fun or original things that you can do; you simply need to infuse your own style into it and get creative. Anything that you can imagine can generally be created ...

Personalize Your Graduation Invitations with Special Inspirations - A graduation invitation can be just a graduation invite, but there are some great things that you can do to add your personal touch and make it interesting and even inspirational to those that you send them to. There is nothing better than sending out invites that have been infused with your own personal style, whatever that may be ...

Differentiating Masculine & Feminine Invitations Theme - Because both men and women graduate from high school as well as college there needs to be a way to differentiate between invitations that are more appropriate for men and those that are more appropriate for women. This is not to say that there aren’t invitations that are appropriate for both genders, but if you want something that ...

Seasonal Graduation Invitations
Show Your Patriotism with Patriotic Graduation Invitations Theme - Over the last couple years the patriotism in our country seems to have been renewed and this includes the young, the old, and everyone in between. If you are graduating from high school or college why not share your patriotism with others with a patriotic invitation theme? Why go drab when you can serve to inspire those that ...

Graduation Photo Christmas Cards - Are you graduating early? Many students that graduate early, graduate in the winter months, which is a great opportunity to do something different with your graduation invitation. You can not only send an invite to all those that you would like to attend your graduation ceremonies; you can send a Christmas greeting at the same time by enclosing a Christmas card with a photo ...

After The Graduation
Sending Graduation Thank You Cards - So, your graduation day has come and gone, the ceremonies were amazing, the graduation party was brilliant, and above all, the graduation gifts were super cool! The graduate is happy, the graduate’s guests are happy, everyone is happy. But, after the ceremony, party and gifts comes the most daunting part – sending out ...

Graduation Photo and your Scrapbooking Project - Honoring the graduate is one of the most important parts of the graduation ceremony. If you’ve organized your photo albums over the years, then everything should be up to date. But, if you are like most of us, then you’re family photos are probably piled up in boxes in the attic. Since you are going to be graduating pretty soon, now ...

Career Guide After Graduation - Transitioning out of college can be both, an exciting as well as a scary experience. There are newer and tougher challenges to face, unwritten laws to be followed, unexplored opportunities for progress – and humiliation – in every nook and cranny. While recent graduates and most other college students are preparing themselves to become experts ...

Reunion Graduate Party Planning - Once you graduate, you only get to see you friends every ten years at each reunion! So you want to have a fun reunion party this time and not a boring formal one? Planning for your reunion would mean coming up with a special plan or an idea for the party. From the decorations to the food and particularly the entertainment, your graduate reunion party ...

Leather Handbags - The Mark of Excellence

Pietro Alessandro Carry All Satchel

By Jayson Pablo

We all want to look stylish and sophisticated. Everybody wants to have an admirable personality and be applauded by the people around for her/his wonderful fashion sense and taste. In the present times when there is immense fashion consciousness, appearances play a vital role in determining our impact on the other people. We ought to look impressive and appealing in order to survive in this highly exhibitive world. When there is so much emphasis laid on the looks and style then it is important to keep ourselves equipped with the most outstanding and stylish fashion accessories. Leather handbags are one of the most impressive and sophisticated accessories that are considered as true hallmark of style and elegance.

The handbags made of leather are quite popular amongst the women. There are a wide variety of handbags available in the market these days. A number of retailers and fashion designers bring upon the new collections of designer bags that are really classic in looks and design. Most of the people admire leather bags due to their subtle sheen and wonderful looks. These bags are appropriate for everybody and specially women. People can use these elegant handbags for their offices, parties and even shopping; since these bags looks amazingly great; they add glamour and style to a woman's personality.

The ladies handbags are ideal for a college going teenagers who want to look stylish & trendy and even a highly efficient professional woman who should look extremely sophisticated and niche. The handbags can be used to store various important documents or the makeup accessories depending upon the nature of the needs of the user. These bags have ruled the fashion world with their impeccable looks, no other material like jute, plastic, rayon or cloth can replace the magic and grandeur of the leather bags. They look immensely stylish and classy.

The bags should also have durability along with style and beauty. It is important to select a bag from a reliable brand so as to ensure that it lasts longer and does not get worn out after a short time. The purse should have sufficient pockets and good quality buttons & zippers etc so that it can be used efficiently. Without a proper stitching and piping the bags would look cheap and unattractive. The fine quality bags can be made with the calf skin and thus they look extremely soft and supple. These bags are really delicate and should be handled with extreme care. The handbags are an amazing gift for women. The ladies handbags are a perfect way to flaunt females as they simply cannot resist being wooed by the elegance and the beauty of these exquisite bags. You can find amazing purses at various online shopping portals. Since the leather bags are expensive you should search for available discounts and offers so that you can get most beneficial deals.

The most appreciable aspect of leather is that it never goes out of fashion. All the other trends are momentary or seasonal and you would often notice that if you buy certain other item following the fashion trends, they would appear outdated in the next season. You get really disappointed and do not feel like using the old accessory. However with a elegant leather bag you would never face this problem. As they are timeless and would always help you make the perfect style statement.

These bags are available in a number of colours and style. You can have amazing designs and great variety in these leather handbags. Based on your needs and preferences you can select different styles of bags. For traveling purposes stylish yet spacious bags are favourable however for party or formal celebrations elite and designer purses are appropriate. The leather purses look really elegant and absolutely incredible. They exude a sheer sense of style and class. You can create great impression with the stylish bags and win hearts of the people around you.

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Celebrate Memorial Day with American Fashion Designers

Use coupon code MDS08 for an extra 20% off. Click Here!

Celebrate Memorial Day in style and take an extra 20% off all the American Designers at eFashionHouse.com. We owe a lot to the European influence when it comes to fashion. Yet, the American Designers produce an image we call, "Home." People like Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Melie Bianco and Elaine Turner pave the way for upcoming American fashion influence.

Designers like Tano Bags, BCBG, Coach, Dooney & Bourke and Brighton bring a sense of American style and unique image to their collections. We honor all the American Designers this season and celebrate with them for Memorial Day 2008.

Whether you are looking for a new handbag, wallet, tote or leather shoulder bag, you can find a perfect American Designer Handbag for an unbeatable price. But don't lose sight of the true meaning of Memorial Day. We celebrate in honor of many people who have died in military service protecting our country. It's really about honoring our heros.

Yes, we are addicted to fashion, and we admire the creative design process. We are always seeking a bargain, and we shop online for the best deals we can find. So, get ready for Memorial Day with a celebration of American Designers at an additional 20% off, and remember our heros who lived their lives to make America our home.

MORE ABOUT Memorial Day
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May (observed in 2008 on May 26). It was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action. One of the longest standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911. It is also traditionally viewed as the beginning of summer by many, for many schools are dismissed around Memorial Day.

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers place a U.S. flag upon each gravesite located in a National Cemetery.

Many politicians and community leaders give speeches at community gatherings on Memorial Day.In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also a time for picnics, family gatherings, and sporting events. Some Americans also view Memorial Day as the unofficial beginning of summer and Labor Day as the unofficial end of the season. The national Click it or ticket campaign ramps up beginning Memorial Day weekend, noting the beginning of the most dangerous season for auto accidents and other safety related incidents. The USAF "101 Critical days of summer" begin on this day as well. Some Americans use Memorial Day to also honor any family members who have died, not just servicemen.

Flags flying at Fort Logan National Cemetery during Memorial Day 2006.Memorial Day formerly occurred on May 30, and some, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), advocate returning to this fixed date, although the significance of the date is tenuous. The VFW stated in a 2002 Memorial Day Address, "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed a lot to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

Following the end of the Civil War, many communities set aside a day to mark the end of the war or as a memorial to those who had died. Some of the places creating an early memorial day include Charleston, South Carolina; Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; Richmond, Virginia; Carbondale, Illinois; Columbus, Mississippi; many communities in Vermont; and some two dozen other cities and towns. These observances eventually coalesced around Decoration Day, honoring the Union dead, and the several Confederate Memorial Days.

Decoration Day, c. 1900. "You bet I'm goin' to be a soldier, too, like my Uncle David, when I grow up."According to Professor David Blight of the Yale University History Department, the first memorial day was observed in 1865 by liberated slaves at the historic race track in Charleston. The site was a former Confederate prison camp as well as a mass grave for Union soldiers who had died while captive. A parade with thousands of freed blacks and Union soldiers was followed by patriotic singing and a picnic.

The official birthplace of Memorial Day is Waterloo, New York. The village was credited with being the birthplace because it observed the day on May 5, 1866, and each year thereafter, and because it is likely that the friendship of General John Murray, a distinguished citizen of Waterloo, and General John A. Logan, who led the call for the day to be observed each year and helped spread the event nationwide, was a key factor in its growth.

General Logan had been impressed by the way the South honored their dead with a special day and decided the Union needed a similar day. Reportedly, Logan said that it was most fitting; that the ancients, especially the Greeks, had honored their dead, particularly their heroes, by chaplets of laurel and flowers, and that he intended to issue an order designating a day for decorating the grave of every soldier in the land, and if he could he would have made it a holiday.

Logan had been the principal speaker in a citywide memorial observation on April 29, 1866, at a cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois, an event that likely gave him the idea to make it a national holiday. On May 5, 1868, in his capacity as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans' organization, Logan issued a proclamation that "Decoration Day" be observed nationwide. It was observed for the first time on May 30 of the same year; the date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of a battle. The tombs of fallen Union soldiers were decorated in remembrance of this day.

Many of the states of the U.S. South refused to celebrate Decoration Day, due to lingering hostility towards the Union Army and also because there were very few veterans of the Union Army who lived in the South. A notable exception was Columbus, Mississippi, which on April 25, 1866 at its Decoration Day commemorated both the Union and Confederate casualties buried in its cemetery.

The alternative name of "Memorial Day" was first used in 1882, but did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967 . On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend and for the first time recognized Columbus Day as a federal holiday. The holidays included Washington's Birthday (which evolved into Presidents' Day), Veterans Day, and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971 . After some initial confusion and unwillingness to comply at the state level, all fifty states adopted the measure within a few years, although Veterans Day was eventually changed back to its traditional date. Ironically, most corporate businesses no longer close on Columbus Day or Veterans Day, and an increasing number are staying open on President's Day as well. The holiday has endured as one where most businesses stay closed because it marks the beginning of the "summer vacation season" (similar to neighboring Canada's Victoria Day, which occurs on the prior Monday).

Leather handbags clearance sale

Biggest Leather Bag Sale "Only" Online! Addicted to handbags? Here's a sale you don't want to miss! Purses to Blog for at big online price cuts - Budgets that work for you! Budget Shopping Online - Huge Designer Handbag Sale at eFashionHouse! In today's tight budgets, there's always hope for online bargain hunters. Click here to enjoy a huge Sale on all your favorite Designers like Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Coach, Tano bags, Murval, Melie Bianco, Elaine Turner handbags, Pietro Alessandro and many, many more! For more information. Whether you love leather or just want a new purse to tote around town, you must see the sale currently in progress. The Sale Section is marked down plus use coupon code OFF10 for an extra 10% off. The Clearance Section is as low as possible plus use coupon code OFF20 for an extra 20% off.Enjoy designer handbags and accessories at unbeatable prices. Plus, guaranteed lowest prices for Tano, Elaine Turner, Murval and Melie Bianco. Click here for details.

Designer handbags under $200!

You don't need to spend a fortune to look like you did. Genuine leather designer handbags by Pietro Alessandro are available for under $200. Most bags nowadays cost much more. For a very well constructed handbag, select a contemporary style made of genuine leather. Click here for more details. Fully lined. Inside extra pockets and every detail you'd expect from a high-end fashion accessory. Available in a variety of colors. Look good for a lot less than you could imagine.

Mellow yellow sunshine warm Pietro Alessandro

If you really love leather handbags and want the hottest color on earth, pick yellow this season. Pietro Alessandro makes top notch leather bags. Better than many others for the price point. Most Pietro Alessandro bags sell for under $200. That's pretty good considering handbags have become so popular these past few years.

Click here for more details about Pietro Alessandro.

Fashion tips Your Handbag

Turquoise Blue Leather Designer Handbag by Pietro Alessanro Designs

by Sheila Dicks
Do you love handbags, buy the latest trends and have lots of them in different sizes, colors and patterns or are they simply an essential item? Maybe you like handbags but don’t have the time or money to keep your closet stocked. Handbags are a great accessory and can spice up an outfit and also reflect your personality. Whether you change your handbag with every outfit or carry one for months I have a few suggestions that may make a difference in what you choose.

Invest in Quality
Before you buy make sure that your bag is well made. Check the stitching to make sure it is secure. Make sure the zipper works properly and in the case of cotton bag, that the zipper doesn’t get caught in the material. A good quality, classic purse will last for many seasons.

Is Your Bag the Right Size?
Your bag should be in proportion to your body. If you are a small, petite woman do not carry a huge bag because it will overwhelm you. Large, tall women should stick to larger bags. The key is keeping your bag in proportion to your to your size.

The Occasion
If you can find a bag that will take you from the beach to school, to an evening out that’s great but not likely. Different occasions require different bags. A straw bag is great for the beach, a knapsack style bag is great for school, and a clutch is great for an evening out. However, neither can be used for many other occasions. A black leather purse can be most versatile and can be used for many occasions. However, a black leather purse will probably not be enough you may still need a straw bag, knapsack or clutch depending on your lifestyle.

Your Bag Should Complement Your Outfit
If you dress in one color, spice it up by choosing a handbag that matches the accessories you’re wearing. If you’re wearing patterns or prints carry a handbag that is a solid color (choose one of the colors in the pattern). This is a season when there are lots of bags to choose from in different styles, colors and patterns. Handbags can be a great accessory, so, before you buy, keep in mind how often you will want to use it, where will it fit in and what it will match.

Pietro Alessandro - Special Orders Available Online

Yes, it's true. See the color you want and place a special order. Delivered to your door. No muss, no fuss. Best prices online for Pietro Alessandro! We found it JUST FOR YOU! All leather construction. Very hip and edgy designs. Made in the USA! Under $200!

Forget the flowers! Mom wants a new designer handbag for Mother’s Day

What mom really wants for Mother’s Day is a new designer handbag so eFashionHouse.com is making shopping for mom easy with free shipping.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB), April 24, 2008: Gone are the days where shopping for mom meant a pretty floral arrangement or a box of her favorite chocolate. Today’s moms are more interested in trendy or classic designer handbags, so eFashionHouse.com is making shopping for mom a little easier with free shipping for Mother’s Day (May 11).

Named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch for below retail priced designer handbags and recognized by About.com as the top of three online retailers of off-priced Chanel, eFashionHouse.com has all the designers and styles moms want. From handbag darling Elaine Turner, to couture legend Chanel, to American staple Coach, eFashionHouse.com offers the latest in designer handbags for all budgets.

"It’s not only fashionistas that want the latest designer handbag all the time, today’s mom is very hip and wants to carry a nice leather handbag as well" said Anna Miller, eFashionHouse Owner. "To meet the needs of our clients, we now carry handbags that are age-friendly…meaning most of the designers we carry cater to women of all ages who simply love fashion."

Not only does eFashionHouse.com, and its five fashion ecommerce stores (BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet and ValueBags), offer a wide variety of authentic designer handbags but they guarantee the lowest prices online for Tano, Melie Bianco, Murval, Elaine Turner and Pietro Alessandro. Plus the site offers a layaway plan that allows its clients to pay over time and still get the bag of their dreams.

If you still don’t know what to get mom, here’s a couple of hot selling bags that are sure to make her smile (and maybe even giggle with glee):

• COACH Hamptons Cream Large Tote – 26% off
• ELAINE TURNER Andie Platinum Distressed Leather Satchel – 24% off
• Tano Bauhaus Leather Tote – 21% off
• Gucci Brit Medium Tote in Brown – 26% off
• Yves Saint Laurent Downtown Tote in Cream – 21% off
• Vintage Chanel Quilted Lambskin Shoulder Bag – only $499

In addition to huge savings on brand new, 100% authentic designer handbags, shoppers will receive free ground shipping from April 24th thru May 2nd on purchase over $100 with coupon code MD08. Plus there is no sales tax on all purchases worldwide.

About eFashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. EFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. eFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer & Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She’s been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90s. eFashionHouse.com has an extensive Press Page and a Fashion Blog Network. Visit the site for more details.

Handbags and Feng Shui

By Silvana Rosati-capizzano

Here are some tips help you stay organized and function at optimum levels:

Make sure your handbag is clean, neat and organized.

A smaller handbag that can be worn across your chest, freeing up both your hands will make for an easier shopping trip as well.

What does your handbag look like? Messy, stained, filled with receipts, lists, candy wrappers, endless "to do" lists, old lipsticks, cosmetics, toiletries, heaps of memorabilia, money just thrown in?

Often our handbags become a sea of junk. A lot of us invest a good amount of money in our handbags. We love them, we carry them with pride - but what we carry, is often much more than we need. We often don't give it a thought until it is overflowing with so much stuff that it creates shoulder and neck pain. A messy, heavy handbag is very inauspicious. It causes us stress when we constantly have to dig to find anything. It blocks wealth energy and bogs us down figuratively, physically and literally.

Be reasonable about what and how much you carry.

Make it a habit to clean it out once a week.

To attract wealth energy, also keep a clean, neat, and organized wallet. Coins, bills and cards in their correct space.

Keep lists in an easy access area. When you have completed that days "to do's", throw it out your list.

A clean purse is very auspicious and attracts wealth energy.

A red handbag carry's energized, yang chi. By placing three chinese coins tied together with a red string inside will attract money. If you know a wealthy person, ask them for a bill of money to carry inside your purse. This will carry increased wealth energy inside your handbag.

Help all that money going out this season to find it's way back in.

What ever handbag you fancy, keep it clean, neat, light and organized.

© 2007 Silvana Rosati-Capizzano

Silvana is a well respected Interior Decorator, International Feng Shui Expert and the Principal of the Award Winning Home & Life Design Firm: Blue Avalon. Along with her years of study in Home Decor and Feng Shui, she has the unique ability of being able create luxurious interiors with balance and optimum energy flow thus creating a beautiful environment of positive energy, balance and harmony.

Pietro Alessandro Handbags - Best Prices Online

People StyleWatch featured Pietro Alessandro
at eFashionHouse.com

If you are looking for a Pietro Alessandro handbag at an unbeatable low price, look no further. These gorgeous leather handbags are selling like hot-cakes. We can't keep them in stock! Plus, if you see a color not shown at DesignersLA online store, they will special order the bag for you in the color you want. There are a variety of colors and styles to choose from in stock now. Click here for more information.

Fashion on a Budget - Designer handbags, clothing and shoes

By Woody Lee

There has been a lot of talk about the economy lately and the forecast isn't looking too good which means it's time to start looking at ways to tighten the budget and cut back on the things you don't absolutely need. Though the thought about going without might seem grim at first, there is a silver lining when it comes to shopping. Just because you have less to spend on fashion doesn't mean you have to stop trying completely, following is a list of tips that help the budget fashionista in all of us keep looking fabulous.

Clothing
I thought starting off with the most obvious wardrobe item was a good way to kick off the list especially since a lot of us have already started thinking of spring wear, plus shopping for clothing on a budget is often the easiest. Although no one likes to worry about the economy, one positive result is retailers know that consumers are holding onto their money tighter than before, so they are more willing to hold sales and make higher decreases to entice consumers to spend. Here's a great way to take advantage of dropping prices but still come out with the stuff you want:

Be a savvy sale shopper: I already mentioned how you might notice more sales and promotions from retailers in an effort to boast slow profits, so as a savvy shopper it pays off to know when your favorite store is holding a 'secret sale' (join a mailing list or befriend the sales staff to become a VIP), end-of-season sales (household names like Banana Republic and Macys hold seasonal sales where items are 40% off), watch for the buy-one-get-one-half off type of coupon sales because you can buy the non-sale item you've been eyeing and get another item half off.

Shop online: Even the most experienced shopper can find it daunting to keep up with the sale schedule at their favorite stores which is why shopping online has become so popular. Gone were the days where you weren't sure of your size or if something looked good, most online shops allow for easy returns. But it's better to know the types of clothes you look good so you won't have to mail back a bunch of returns. The best part about shopping online is that often times you can find the same brands at cheaper prices because an online retailer doesn't have to pay for retail space. If you don't believe me, I found Rachel Pally dresses at 50% off at DesignersLA.com or check out ShopBop and click on the 70% off sale section (you'll be amazed at what you see). Plus if you sign up for your favorite e-tailers email list, you'll get even more savings with sale announcements and coupon codes sent right to your inbox. What's easier than that?

Invest in classics: Though sale shopping can result in a ton of savings, to really save money try not to buy something you won't end up wearing just because it is on sale. Sure a designer label pink suede skirt at 80% off is a great deal but if it's hot outside or pink suede isn't in style when the weather cools, you've wasted money that could have been used toward something you'll wear again and again. Trends are always fun but invest in a couple of classics that can take you through an entire season. I'm thinking white wide-leg pants and a yellow dress but you can pick your favorite spring staples.

Vintage: If the thought of secondhand shops scares you than you haven't been shopping at the right vintage store. Vintage can be ultra-hip and you'll be surprised to see what you find in the right vintage store. Make sure to find one that offers items in good condition and reasonable prices (some are actually expensive) and go hunting for shift dresses, capris and 50's style blouses that have been seen in all the fashion magazines. Plus there are even some great online vintage shops (JillsConsignment and LuxuryVintage) that carry amazing stuff in awesome condition.

Handbags and Accessories
It doesn't matter if there are tough times or not, fashionistas are constantly on the lookout for bargains on designer handbags. The good thing is that a good designer handbag has a much longer run than designer clothing because if you invest in the right designer purse or designer jewelry you can wear it for many months as opposed to changing up your clothes due to trends and weather conditions. And even though designer "it" bags cost more than ever, the average designer label handbag costs $2k, I've done my homework and found ways to score a hot designer bag, designer jewelry or accessory from Prada, Gucci, Tod's, Chloe, Anya Hindmarch, Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Burberry, and even Chanel at up to 70% off retail. Don't believe me, see for yourself:

Shop online: As with shopping for clothing, shopping online for designer accessories can really pay off. Unlike clothes, you don't have to worry about how an item will fit because most reputable sites will list the exact measurements and provides photos from all angles so you can see exactly what you're getting. Since online retailers don't have as much overhead as say a big department store (it's hard to find a designer handbag in a small boutique), they are able to offer substantially more savings for the exact same purse. I recently picked up an authentic Chanel handbag at for 50% off retail at eFashionHouse.com and the selection is endless. Based on my budget (and a little bit of principal) I would never pay full price for a designer handbag because I know if I wait for the "it" bag craze to die down, I'll visit my favorite site and get the bag 40% off. You can also shop for brand new designer jewelry from Chanel, Gucci and others at more than 60% off.

Wait for end-of-season sales: All of the major department stores mark designer handbags off toward the end of the season an although it's nice to carry a bag as soon as the season starts, if you can hold out, you can find what you're looking for. But if you plan to wait for these sales, make sure you are the first to know because inventory goes fast and is usually sold out the day a sale starts (if you miss the boat, visit the discount designer handbag web sites who sell authentic bags at a discounts year round).

Out with the old, in with the new: If you are as much of a handbag lover as I am than you probably have a couple of designer handbags lying around that you haven't used in a while which means you can afford to get rid of them. If you sell these unused accessories on eBay or to a consignment shop, you can have some extra money to spend on the designer handbag you really want. Try it out, it won't hurt as much as you think.

Vintage: More than even clothes, vintage designer handbags, jewelry and accessories (wallets, scarves, etc.) can not only save you money but even outlast many of the trendier bags. Sites like LuxuryVintage sell authentic Chanel handbags in amazing condition (little to no wear) for as low as $400 and since Chanel handbags are timeless, this is a small price to pay for a bag you can wear for years to come.

Don't be a snob: In addition to the luxury leaders like Marc Jacobs and Prada, the handbag heyday has allowed for smaller labels like Elaine Turner, Tano and Pietro Alessandro to make a name for themselves. Often made from the same high end materials as couture fashion houses, it's easier than ever to score an ultra-soft trendy handbag, like the Elaine Turner Paige Python Frame Bag or the Alex Tote, for a fraction of the cost of an expensive designer label.

Cheap Chic: We usually don't like any handbags that fall into the $15-$40 range but we have to say that lines like Melie Bianco and Murval are quickly making us change our mind. We wouldn't recommend spending your money on a bunch of cheap, poorly made handbags but if you want the look of the moment handbag, than Melie Bianco will probably have it. Visit DesignersLA.com and be amazed at how Melie Bianco manages to make such stylish and gorgeous handbags at such unbelievable prices.

Shoes
There is not a lot of advice we have on shoes because we think that most savvy shoppers (who are women at least) have this category covered but we'll include a couple of pointers just in case you need a refresher:

Invest in a good pair: Shoes are quickly becoming like designer handbags in the fact that they are wildly expensive and there are now a ton of "must-have" styles. Christian Louboutin is the leader of the pack, followed closely by Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blanik but finding a pair of these beauties at a discount can be pretty tricky but not unheard of. If must have another pair of shoes (to add to the 30 you already have), than try to invest in as much shoe as you can afford. Maybe we walk a lot but we've found that investing in a good pair of shoes (leather upper and leather sole) can take us a long way.

Online: There are a ton of online sites selling only footwear and it's sometimes hard to go through them all but the one good thing about so many choices is that there is more competition which means that price points will be lower. We haven't found a ton of online sites that we like to shop at for shoes because we tend to shop for more high end brands (goes back to that investment thinking) and there aren't a lot of sites that sell expensive shoes but one place I have found luck at saving money is eBay (yes, eBay). I would never purchase a designer handbag from eBay because there is no way to guarantee that you are actually getting an authentic designer handbag but shoes are less likely to be knocked off. But be prepared to search often because the selection is limited however you can find some amazing deals (brand new Lanvin flats for $200 or Prada heels for $100). So brush up on your bidding war skills because wining a pair of Manola Blanik Mary Janes is harder than actually walking in them.

Sales: Like clothes and designer accessories, the best and easiest way to save money is to know when your favorite shoe store is having a sale, but the early bird gets the worm in shoes sales because if there is one thing women have in common its shoes.

So although a slow economy can be a huge drain on your wallet, just remember that looking good doesn't have to suffer a recession as well. Become an experienced (and smart) shopper and you'll ride out tough times with the shirt on your back.

Woody Lee is a free lance writer, blogger and fashion addict living in New York City. She loves fashion, she loves high quality designer handbags, and she absolutely dislikes paying full price.

Myth Buster Designer Handbags in the News

It was a fleeting thought, but nonetheless, we were thinking about renting a purse the other day. Poof! The thought was gone.

We did some Google browsing and stumbled across all the news media quotes listed below. So, we decided to consult some handbag experts to bust some of the myths floating around. We also did our own research and came up with some surprising data. Bottom line, it's not cheaper to rent a designer handbag. In the long term, you are better off owning the purse of your dreams. The media has taken hold as usual, it is all hype and drama. The proof is in the numbers. Rental fees can be as high as $300 per month or more for a famous high-end designer handbag (12 x $300 = $3600).

No wonder all the advertising is being pushed like none other. People are being blind-sighted by one of the worst investments a woman can make with her hard earned cash! Too bad there aren't laws to protect financial rape. Women, wise up. If you can't afford to buy yourself a new purse a few times a year, you certainly shouldn't be worried about impressing people with designer fashion accessories.

Here are a list of quotes made by prominent publications. They are myths, and we just busted them!

MYTH #1 -
“Because hot handbags have such a short shelf life, why not rent one instead of buying? That’s the logic behind…” — The Washington Times

Not true. A classic designer handbags does NOT have a short shelf life. Let's take the Fendi Baguette as an example. It started the entire "it" bag movement about twelve years ago and it's still going strong. As a matter of fact, Fendi introduced a "rebirth" of the detailed ornate baguette this past season. It's still alive and doing well. And, for all you Fendi baguette lovers out there, those designer handbags you purchased over the years are now becoming collector's items are reselling for a ton of cash. So, don't cash in yet. Hang onto, or still hang it over your shoulder and look fabulously current carrying a Fendit baguette. The Fendi Baguette is available in a small version about 9 x 6 inches in size or the larger MaMa Baguette style. Whichever, you picked a winner.

Not only has the Fendi Baguette survived over a decade of shelf life, it has been copied by all the major handbag brands. The word "baguette" is not synonomous to any small shoulder bag that fits neatly tucked under the arm when carried over the shoulder. Coach has one, so does Prada, Gucci and all the big handbag designers.

MYTH #2 -
“Fashion handbags are now a $5 billion industry, and a growing number of women are renting bags instead of buying them. For the price of a single designer bag, women can rent a year’s worth.” — NPR

Not true. Wait. Maybe true if you are willing to settle for less than the high end designer handbag style. You can rent at a low rate, but the designer bag is a low-rate, too. You get what you pay for in rentals and in retail.

A year's worth of high-end designer rentals like Chanel would cost much more than the price you'd pay for owning a classic Chanel handbag of your own. Chanel maintains its value, too. So, look at a Chanel purchase as an investment. The classic black quilted lamb leather chain shoulder bag rents for more than $300 per month. HUH! You can purchase one for about $1500. That's 5 months of rental fees, not including insurance and other hidden fees for renting Chanel.

Classic Chanel bags last a lifetime and are passed down through generations. Rentals are like booze, here today and gone tomorrow.

MYTH #3 -
“Do you want to look like Uma Thurman, the new face for Louis Vuitton, but just can’t afford those accessories? No problem. Now the middle class is scrambling for brand-name luxuries, borrowing has become the next-best way to look rich.” — Time

Think Keith Richards. Can't resist the Time Magazine quote we stumbled upon online. The new face of Louis Vuitton is Keith Richards! LOL. Now, re-read the quote above. Replace Uma Thurman with the name Keith Richards. Think Twice about what you wish for!


MYTH #4v-
“Ten years ago in the US the trend was towards cappuccinos and lattes – the sort of small luxury indulgence that was affordable to everyone. It’s the same idea with