Daily Dish - NEW on Boutique Cafe

Jumeau—distinctly stylish belts & bags

August 18th, 2009

I’m not one to pass up the chance to review a new handbag or other accessory, especially if it’s from a company new to me. If it’s new to me then there’s a good chance it’s also new to some of our readers and all the more reason to feature it on the Daily Dish!

Jumeau is a new-to-me collection of unique, stylish, professional, trendy, hip handbags and belts. The company’s focus may be on “premium function with exceptional materials” but the line is also all about design that “complements your body.” Have you ever known a company creating its designs with your body’s contours in mind? Didn’t think so.

Jumeau sent me the Zoe handbag and Hip P belt from their Institution Collection. This is by far my favorite collection, but I tend to lean more towards a professional look than hip and trendy. Yes, totally boring but what can I say? I can say the Zoe handbag is even better in person. The “razberry” color is rich and yummy while the rip-stop fabric adds a bit of fun. I love the “Better than Leather” abrasian-resistant material used in the trim–my bags can take a beating when hauling four kids around! Though it looks on the small side, this little bag is really rather roomy with pockets inside and out, including two magnetic easy-access pockets, something I think every handbag should have. The only thing this magnificent little bag is missing is a matching pair of shoes. (Don’t worry, I’ll get on that right away!)

As for the Hip P belt, those little floral etchings turn what could be a very masculine belt into something wonderfully feminine. Unfortunately the size they sent was a little too large for how tight I like to wear my jeans so I haven’t been able to wear it, but I still pull it out and look at it so I can check out those super sweet etchings. Right now it’s only available in two sizes, large and extra large. Jumeau seriously needs to add two smaller sizes to the mix unless their target customer wears her pants below her butt cheeks. Perhaps I should try that…Hmmm…

Jumeau has five collections: Deft, Now (very trendy), Institution, Green (focuses on natural materials) and Commando (go, camo!). Not every collection offers belts but they all offer some truly unique styles. By the way, Jumeau also incorporates sustainable and recycled materials and offers a 45-day, no questions asked, satisfaction guarantee AND a 5-year replacement warranty. Okay, I’ve NEVER heard of any kind of warranty on any handbag I’ve purchased. That’s gotta make you feel good…almost as good as you feel when toting around a bag that complements your body… –Emily

Strike a retro pose with 144 Collection

May 15th, 2008

144 CollectionHandbags are like jeans and shoes–you can never have too many. So when you come across a limited edition, retro- and vintage-inspired bag that exudes quality, it takes only a moment before it becomes a “need” and not a “want.” That’s how I feel about the handbags and wristlets from 144 Collection.

Lesia Griffin launched 144 Collection in February, 2006 as a hobby after taking sewing lessons, which she took to help express her creative side. (Sewing helps me express my all-thumbs side…) Lesia soon discovered she loved designing her own patterns and especially creating one-of-a-kind handbags and wristlets. I’m sure when friends and family saw her fun and funky designs they requested their own bags–I know I would have! Because 144 Collection’s bags are handmade each one is not only unique but also made with attention to quality and detail.

144 CollectionWhen not hauling around the diaper bag, my bag of choice is 144 Collection’s Jessica handbag. I love its simple style and its ability to hold a lot of stuff without anything getting lost in the shuffle. It has two interior pockets so my cell phone, lip gloss and gum don’t disappear, and the straps are the perfect size to work either on the shoulder or off. Plus there’s something quite satisfying about carrying a limited-edition handbag. And how can you not love the retro, unique fabrics!

144 Collection144 Collection offers five styles of bags plus a cute wristlet. I love my Jessica bag so much I may pick up a wristlet. At 8″ by 6″ it might even be big enough for diapers and wipes. (Hmmm…I may have to get two.) Along with the retro fabrics you’ll find 144 Collection bags have a retro price. For something this high quality, this detailed, and this unique you could easily pay over $100 but you’ll find these bags won’t bust your budget–leaving room for another pair of shoes, of course. To purchase your own 144 Collection tote or wristlet visit the designer’s store on Etsy. –Emily

Blog Widget by LinkWithin Blog Widget by LinkWithin-->