One of the most well-known brands in the handbag world is Coach. Both men and women recognize the Coach logo and millions continue to support Coach bags season after season. Established in 1941 as a family run workshop in Manhattan, Coach quickly became renown not only for their style but also quality. With an expanding company and product line, we continue to expect and be given innovative lines and multiple collections every season.

We were given the opportunity to review the upcoming Coach Kristin Collection which is set to launch online and in stores on November 1st, 2009. The Kristin line is clean and effortless, possessing many Coach qualities without having the Coach signature logo. The colors used for this line are soft and elegant, including shades of coral, pink, ivory, and burnished amber. Not just simple leather, the bags are given different finishes for optimum dimension and appeal, including fresh color blocking, embossed exotics, and rich glazed leather.

      

Along with the beautiful colors, the Kristin collection stands out with fashionable chain link straps, some alternating between pewter and gold and others with a tortoiseshell-like finish. Each of the handbags in the collection are amplified by a sleek turnlock closure that brings a focal point to the collection while also dressing it up. The collection is clearly a Coach collection but it broadens the expected spectrum of products and proves itself as “can’t live without” items.

   

The Kristin Embossed Zip Top Tote stood out in my heart and mind. The embossed camel leather was vibrant yet subdued and the bag seemed to pop against vibrant greens and tonal browns. This is a carry-all bag, one that can be used day in and day out. The double top handles are accompanied by a chain-link strap and front pouch. Price will be $1000 for the embossed version, while price for the green zip top tote will be $698.

The clutches brought in a variety of feminine and soft colors with a fashionable touch. The Kristin Colorblock Shoulder Flap combined differing embossed skin details with a subtle palette of colors. Metallic, pink, and color accented with a tonal chain strap is just the right touch for this clutch to transform from day to night. The Kristin Darcy clutch will be available in embossed leather along with plain leather. The simple Darcy clutch is the perfect sized clutch in a hue of coral. The Embossed Darcy clutch stands out with an exotic embossed skin against an ivory body. The Colorblock Shoulder Flap will be $498, Embossed Darcy $458, and Darcy Clutch $298. Check back to Coach online for more information.

Interview with Raina Penchansky

Not only did we have the chance to exclusively review the Coach Kristin line, but we also were able to ask Raina Penchansky, Vice President of Global Communications at Coach, a few questions. Raina oversees all marketing, events, and celebrity initiatives for the company worldwide. Both Mandy Moore and Kate Bosworth were booked by Raina to be featured in international campaigns. Raina spends much of her time working closely with company President and Executive Creative Director, Reed Krakoff, on society events and designer collaborations. Most recently, Raina was able to secure designers Eugenia Kim, Phillip Lim, and Miss Davenporte’s Estee Stanley and Cristina Ehrlich to create capsule collections for the brand.

PB: We had the chance to review the Kristin line. Can you tell us a bit about it?

The Kristin Collection incorporates a chic and subdued color palette with glossy leather and irresistibly chic details, like the new slim clasp closure. My favorite pieces are those that incorporate mixed metal chain straps and pitch perfect shades of coral, soft metallic pink, and burnished amber.

PB: Coach is constantly churning out new lines. How do you keep your ideas fresh?

We are always drawing inspiration from new sources, whether it’s a funky fabric swatch or a piece of art. We always try to push the envelope even further with each new collection.

PB: Who is the ‘Coach girl’ you have in mind when designing?

The Coach girl is equal parts fresh and whimsical, sophisticated and refined, chic and feminine. She has a refreshing sense of style and loves to mix her accessories for a casually cool look.

PB: As the fan base of Coach has expanded, how do you try to incorporate designs for the younger crowd and older crowd?

We have always been known for fusing a classic mindset with modern interpretations, so appealing to a variety of women is easy when you have the right formula. We recently launched a new collection that appeals to a broader fan base, and especially our younger, more directional customer, and that’s Poppy. It’s spirited, youthful, vibrant, and a completely new look for us.

PB: How important is social media to the Coach brand?

The power of social media is undeniable and increasingly influential to our objectives. We have and will continue to engage our customers through organic programs, like growing our Facebook page and cultivate conversations with our customers, building relationships with bloggers, and developing interactive online campaigns like last year’s “Design a Tote” program and the recently completed “Are You a Poppy Girl?”

PB: With the majority of people reading or writing blogs, how important is it to Coach to reach out to the blogosphere?

We take that world very seriously and treat bloggers just like traditional magazine editors. We hold press previews to show them our newest collections, co-host regional events with them, and even invite some to New York in order to get to us better and experience special events or launches first hand.

PB: What can we expect next from Coach?

You can expect to see refined and directional handbags and accessories, with lots of vivid and edgy details like tons of sequins, animal prints, and metallics. And you can always expect Coach to put our stamp on original and relevant projects in the future.

We don’t talk a lot about Coach handbags on this blog, and maybe that’s an oversight on our part. What better way to start correcting it, then, than by talking about the line of bags named after yours truly (ok, well, they’re not necessarily named after me. But I came first. So there.)? The Amanda Satin Mini Satchel is, by my standards at least, kinda cute. There are disadvantages to using a material like satin (snagging!), but the advantage that Coach has realized is that it takes vivid color much better than almost any kind of leather. You get a sheen and brightness with satin that you don’t usually find in a handbag, and in small doses (this satchel is “mini,” after all) it can be a beautiful addition to an ensemble. I wouldn’t suggest buying a massive satin handbag, but something petite and bright could potentially be a lot of fun, methinks. Particularly at such a friendly price point. Buy through Nordstrom.

Messter is carrying the Hamptons Embossed Python Flap which looks gorgeous. The bag features black python printed leather with fabric lining. This bag is once again the kind of bag you can carry day or night without a problem. Her shoes are the Claudine Pump. The pumps look perfect for fall. I’m a huge fan of dark, rich brown shoes in the fall. Call me traditional (in this sense), but I think dark, rich tones are a must for a fall. Even living in Florida, brown, orange and even some deep yellows are a must in the fall. The Hampton Embossed Python Flap is priced at $1,000.oo while the pumps are $318.00. Lively is sporting the Coach Wool Maude Hat which comes in a variety of colors. Hats like this are classic. We’ve all seen them from season to season; they just never seem to become outdated. The hat will cost you $248.00. So, what do you think about any of these items? Might you add them to your fall lineup? Everything can be purchased through Coach online.

It is not just Coach that moved its factory to China, many designer houses have also moved. But those that remain with their “Made in Italy” tags are claiming a little more than they are worth at times. The fact is, many designers have the majority of their bag made in China and then some finishing touches are completed in Italy etc. And this renders a Made in Italy stamp? I think not. Why am I talking about this? It is all about quality of what we are buying, and many times our luxury items are not high quality. This actually is not a start for me to go against Coach purses, but to say that they are not the only ones that have moved their factories to keep up with the demand and costs. Quality matters to me, and at times it is lacking. To be honest, I have not seen a Coach Alligator Bag in person, so I will need your insight on this. Coach has continued to branch out to bring exotic materials to its clients. The Coach Legacy Alligator Pocket Flap is designed with imported alligator and leather trim on the iconic Coach Pocket Flap bag. One thing that I find great about this bag is its functionality; with an inside zip pocket, cell phone pocket, ring to clip keys, and two outside front pockets. I have a major issue with the exotic outside that is then lined in fabric on the inside. I would definitely expect a more luxurious interior for the price, like suede lining. Either way, Coach exotic purses already has fans in Rebecca Romijn, Mandy Moore, and Eva Longoria. This bag costs $7000 through Coach.

Let’s have a debate: Would you ever buy a Coach exotic? Do you look down upon brands that move their companies overseas, like to China?

I have been intrigued by the exotic creations being seen on Coach purses lately. We first had Eva Longoria with a Python Miranda then Rebecca Romijn with an Ostrich Lily. But it is not just their exotics that are catching attention. Coach purses are a fan favorite. In fact, most women start out buying a Coach purse when they break into the designer handbag realm. I know I did. And while my collection has expanded, there are still Coach purses that I see and love. The new line is the Coach Francine line, which is just in time for spring with bright colors on patent leather. Sure there is the obligatory brown and white, but I am intrigued by the eye popping teal and slight shimmer to the metallic. Even better is that a purple will be available April 22nd online. The Patent Leather Francine sports a bold color with a great design, offering a removable strap and an outside pocket with turn lock closure. The shape resembles a bowler bag. This design is great for a hand-held burst of color and flair. The patent leather Francine costs $798 via Coach while the metallic leather costs $898 via Coach.

The Lily is a new design from Coach that actually has my attention. It is a cute shape, style, and great daily wear. There is a black and camel leather version of the Coach Lily, but if you are a special person, you have the opportunity to get your hands on an ostrich version. The Coach Ostrich Lily was the bag of choice for Rebecca Romijn in the stunning red Bordeaux. Romijn, along which other celebrities such as Eva Longoria, are opting for some of the exotics bags from Coach. Coach bags have always been popular and are many women’s first bag into the designer handbag world. But as the market expands, Coach does too, and while some are not keen on spending thousands on an exotic bag from Coach, some are. The Coach Lily in ostrich retails for $7,000 (model # 11160). It is also available in a Brass/Mahogany ostrich combination. If you are interested in the leather Lily, it retails for 1/10th the price, $700 via Coach.

Images via Splash News

    

Eva Longoria Parker is living the dream. She plays on the hit TV show Desperate Housewives, is now on the big screen, and recently married San Antonio Spur basketball player, Tony Parker. Eva is all smiles nearly every time she is photographed. After leaving a photo shoot, Eva Longoria was seen wearing a hot blue number paired with her Coach Python Miranda. As prices in handbags skyrocket and buyers continue to look for more luxurious options, design houses like Coach, who are known for their more affordable bags in the realm of the handbag world, continue to raise their prices and bring in new option. In the past couple years, Coach began to release alligator and python bags to compete with the exotic push in the luxury market. Many shoppers say they would not splurge on an exotic bag from Coach, but Eva seems to love this bag! The python version of the Coach Miranda costs $1200 while the leather costs $798 via Coach. This bag is no longer available online, so inquire through Coach stores.

Coach Python Miranda

    

A while back I told the tale of my wanting to purchase a Hermes coinbag. Between the Ostrich Hedgehog and Crocodile Tortoise, I was in love. The designs with meticulously crafted and insanely expensive (reaching over $2,000). I lost my breath for a moment, then re-collected and welcomed myself back to reality. I loved it, but I could not bring myself to it. Even more recently I bought my cousin the cutest keyfob from Coach. It was also made beautifully, but cost under $40. Say hello to the Coach Toucan Keyfob which is designed with suede, leather, and patent leather, and showcases a fun youthful feel. I look at this keyfob and am reminded of Toucan Sam from Froot Loops. The perfect accessory for an affordable price. Sure, I love those Hermes coinbags, but I still can not justify buying one. No matter how much money I have. I prefer a vacation to the tropics with my Coach Toucan Keyfob dangling from my bag and a drink in my other hand.

Buy via Coach for $38.

It is graduation season in many parts of the world. Granted many and most graduated a few weeks ago, whether it be from high school or college, but the parties are still continuing. I recently went to my cousins High School graduation and had to think of the perfect gift. What does every college kid need I pondered? Lo and behold, I came up with a wristlet, for the nights on the town when you need cash and a credit card and that is about it! I find the Coach Hamptons Wristlet to be the perfect gift for any girl out there; the pebbled leather is divine, the functionality of the wrist strap is perfect, and the size is just right. The tassel detail is not over the top, and coming from me who is not much of a tassel lover, that says something. Measurements are 6 (L) x 4 (H). Still looking for the perfect affordable gift, opt for this wristlet in either black, blue, or sand. What girl would not love this? Via Coach for a mere $68.

Typically, I would not expect Coach to release a funky and edgy design. But alas, Coach realized that the masses are into the deep and dark skulls and crossbones. Really though, it is not deep and dark, it is just edgy and totally hip now. The best part is the Coach Skull Charm sports silver and black leather with metallic trim and costs a mere $38. Add some spice to your handbag life Via Coach

A few of my favorites after the jump!

COACH ERGO VINTAGE LEATHER LARGE HOBO | $478

COACH ERGO SCARF PRINT HOBO | $328

COACH ERGO LEATHER LARGE TOTE | $428

Notice my posting today was all early in the morning? Well, I must admit, I spent the day shopping and laying by the pool. I hope many of you did the same, called in sick to work or something! The crystal blue sky has my mind thinking of summer and the beach which in turn has me thinking of a perfectly cute straw bag. They are out there and can look adorable if you find the right one. I am taking a liking to the Coach Novelty Stripe Large Straw Basket because the colorful leather stripes on the border are cute and eye catching. I’d carry this beauty right onto the beach, with my iPod, sunscreen, and surf board in the other arm. A straw background with leather, suede, patent leather, and metallic leather trim, set this straw bag apart. There is a cute and easy to access front pocket with a turnlock closure. This bag makes me smile. Dimensions are 16 1/2 (L) x 10 1/2 (H) x 6 (W). Bring on the summer via Coach for $398.

Sorry Coach, I am not laughing in your face… wait, wait, come to think of it, I am. Is this bag for real? The Coach Signature Stripe Shearling Tote is trying way too hard to intertwine winter style with leather, shearling, and signature C’s in this atrocity. Somewhat reminds me of the UGG Australia Patchwork Classic Boots which I ragged on, but hindsight it is a much better option than this shearling trim fug bag. There is a dog leash closure to sum up the extent of bad accessories placed on bad handbag. Don’t get me wrong, I am a huge fan of everyday Coach handbags. But this one is rotten. Measuring 14 (L) x 10 1/2 (H) x 4 1/4 (W), buy it for $358 too much via Coach.

I am a dog lover, a big dog lover (literally). I am not sure why, but small dogs are not for me. It could be because I am 5′10 or the fact that I do not want to step on my animal. Either way, dog carriers would never fit a dog that I will own. A dog carrier that screams ‘look at me, look at me’ is even less my style. The Coach Dog Carrier is no doubt made with designer love but is over-logofied. The side mesh window with buckle closure is exactly where I would hide if I were being carried in this contraption.
The signature jacquard fabric with metallic leather trim will take away from your pup in my opinion. Measurements are 17 (L) x 12 (H) x 9 1/4 (W). Buy it via Coach for $398.

October is Beast Cancer Awareness Month. Because breast cancer is near and dear to my heart, you will find many posts this month on how you can support Breast Cancer research. And easy way to do that is by doing what many of us do best: shop. If you purchase the Coach Pink Multi Charm Keyfob 20% of the proceeds from each keyfob sale will support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This cute enamel charm can help a good cause. Buy it through Coach for $58.

Coach is always releasing new lines of bags. With summer just around the corner, Coach has released a line that is going to remind you of oranges, sunny days, and a summer tan. The Coach Ombre Signature Handbags have made their way into my heart starting with the clutch. The Coach Signature Ombre Framed Clutch immerses itself in tie dye twill with embossed calfskin and leather trim. For the perfect amount of glam there is a rhinestone frame closure which opens up to show a cell phone pocket and twill lining. The clutch measures 9 (L) x 4 (H) x 2 (W) and is sure to be a summer hit (it is with me). Buy it through Coach for $348.

Get out the sun screen and designer shades, because the vibrant oranges that mix together to make the Coach Signature Ombre Large Soft Tote will have you ready for summer before you know it. This tote is perfect for everyday wear and has two side pockets with a turnlock closure along with tons of pockets on the interior. There is a dog leash closure and the bag measures 10 (L) x 12 (H) x 6 (W). Buy this orangey summer tote via Coach for $498.

Finishing off the tangerine trio is the Coach Signature Ombre Weekend Tote. This tote is big, bold, and beautiful. Like the others it shows off the tie dye twill outside with embossed calfskin and leather trim. But this bag comes with the perfect addition, a metallic fish ornament detail. This ornament makes me smile and think that I’m on the beach rather than sitting inside avoiding allergies and rain. The weekend tote also has many pockets for all of your goodies and measures a huge 15 1/4 (L) x 16 1/4 (H) x 6 1/2 (W). I’d love to take this with me on the plane to the Caribbean. Ahh that would be an amazing and needed vacation. Buy the big bag through Coach for $698.

As reported by The Bag Lady, little Miss Sexy sported a new and gorgeous Coach bag at the Kid’s Choice Awards. Jessica Alba showed up at the awards toting the new Coach Daphne Straw Top Handle Bag. Apparently Hollywood’s sexy A-lister saw beauty in this new tote which shows off imported straw with python, suede, leather and canvas trim. While it seems like this list of trims might be over-powering, Coach has a way of adding subtle details to make this bag anything but subtle. On the inside there is a zip pocket, multi-purpose pocket, and satin lining. Like I mentioned before, with all the different trims and textures, the outside is the focus of the bag. On the outside there are also two front pockets with turnlock closures and two side pockets also with turnlock closures. The bag measures 12 (L) x 9 (H) x 4 1/2 (W). Take a cue from Jessica Alba and buy this beauty for $698 via Coach.

First let me introduce you to the Coach Hampton’s Patchwork Soft Tote. Bright and light, this tote shows off a plethora of pastel colored patches, including Signature lurex, scribble sateen cotton, stripe sateen cotton, Signature floral print, zebra print, and Signature jacquard fabric. Perfect to add a bright touch to any outfit, the tote also has an outside zip pocket and an additional outside pocket with a hidden magnetic closure. While many of us love our totes, we hate having an open top tote, in fear that we may loose something or someone may decide to make us loose something. Thankfully this bag has a zip-top closure, which makes way to the fabric lining, inside zip pocket, and a multi-function pocket. The tote measures 15 (L) x 10 1/2 (H) x 5 (W) and is now available via Coach for $498.

Next we have one of the newest shapes of Coach, with an added spin. The Coach Hampton’s Weekend Scribble Travel Satchel sports a new and travel friendly shape, along with a multicolor scribble cotton sateen with leather and suede. There are pockets galore on this bag, including outside zip pockets, two side zip pockets, and an inside multi-function and zip pocket. This bag closes with a zip top and shows off fabric lining and a luggage tag. If I were carrying this bag, it would be a cute and airplane friendly carry-on sizing up at 20 (L) x 11 7/8 (H) x 7 3/4 (W). Buy it through Coach for $348.

Make sure to check out the rest of the new line at Coach’s online store!

It has been a while since I have talked about Coach. One of the new hit looks by Coach is the pocket satchel. Let me introduce you to one of my best friend’s favorite bag, the Coach Nylon Small Pocket Satchel. Crafted from luxe nylon, this satchel shows off two front and two side pockets with turnlock closures along with an outside zip pocket. The shape is completely classy and cute with a variety of color options for your liking. On the inside you will find an inside zip pocket, a cellphone pocket, and fabric lining. Adorn your arm with some Coach candy which measures 10 5/8 (L) x 5 1/2 (H) x 4 5/8 (W). Buy this bag via Coach for $358.