Waist packs: A classic that never went away

Waist packs were a travel item long before they were considered a fashion accessory and though the popularity of this item, often call “Fannie packs,” had been on the decline, they have made a comeback and are more popular than ever. For those buying one for the first time, here are some suggestions.
Safe and Secure
One of the best parts of a waist pack is knowing the item is on you at all times. Some brands even feature special safety elements. For example, Travelon’s Anti- Theft Waist Pack has features such as lockable zippers and a cut-proof belt. Other companies, such as Eagle Creek, have a waist pack that features RFID protection.
Sleek and Thin
Large waist packs can hold a lot but can be bulky when traveling to warmer destinations. Fortunately, many of the new packs are slimmer and can still hold everything you need without weighing you down. Spibelt makes a waist pack that is super-thin, yet stretches to hold a phone, keys, and any other small personal items. Travelon also has a sleek top-zip pack that weighs mere ounces and has room for all your beach items.
Classic is Cool
Sometimes the best items are the classics, and leather waist packs are still some of the best looking ones around.. Companies like Piel and Winn have been making waist packs since the beginning and they have kept their classic looks, but have added modern compartments and sizing options so you can find the perfect one. You could even add a free monogram to complete the look.
These are just a few styles of waist packs available on the market. Some brands such as Kipling and Baggallini, even have convertible waist packs that can be worn over the shoulder. Just don’t let anyone tell you that waist packs are passé, because they are functional and stylish.

Hobo Bags- Fine leather items at an affordable price

When we think of leather goods, we think of quality. We want deep and rich colors and that smooth buttery feeling. No brand better exemplifies these leather qualities then Hobo handbags, and that is why we are so excited to be selling this incredible line. They make products that truly stands out from the crowd.

It all starts with the leather. Their vintage leather lines all feature a naturally distressed look that is obtained by first selecting only the finest hides then using organic dyes to achieve a distressed look that will get better looking as it ages. Sure, there are easier ways to achieve this look, but that requires harsh chemicals that are bad for the environment.  Hobo Bags uses none of those to keep a relatively clean environmental footprint. Hobo also features soft leathers that are smooth to the touch and a line of suede that brings back the vibe of the 70’s.

Lots of bags look great but lack functionality, and this is what makes Hobo stand out. For example, their Sheila tote features a removable beaded strap that has the look and durability of a guitar strap so it can be worn as a shoulder bag or a crossbody.  Inside the bag, there are both zippered and slip pockets for all your accessories. It even features a pocket that is specially designed to carry a small laptop or a tablet.

Hobo bags are also great for nights on the town with crossbodies and clutches that are ready for your dressiest occasions. One of their best sellers is the Lauren Clutch Wallet. This clutch is small and sleek and comes in dozens of beautiful colors, prints, and patterns. It also features a magnetic closure that will prevent your items from falling out. Don’t worry about carrying your phone either- it can even handle the IPhone 8 plus!

Don’t forget to check out their wallets and keychains! They are the perfect accessory to your handbag and also make great gifts. New to the line? Our Northbrook, IL store has select items in stock so you can see the quality firsthand. No matter what Hobo item you select, you are sure to receive a high-quality item and lots of compliments from friends, family, and even strangers.

First look: New Briggs & Riley Transcend

When people find out you work for a luggage store their first question usually is, what is your favorite brand of luggage? While we love all brands here at Irv’s Luggage, there always been a soft spot for Briggs & Riley. Not only are they popular with both our employees and our customers, but they are Consumer Reports top rated luggage company. They are the only line of bags to offer such features the Simple As That warranty and an outside pull handle for easy packing. Now for 2017, they have redesigned their Transcend line of luggage.

So what is different in these new models? In one word; EVERYTHING. Traditionally, the Transcend series was a simple, no frills case for a casual traveler. Now this series has moved upscale. The most obvious change for this new model are new colors (rainforest, merlot, and slate) and a squared off shape. This gives their cases a more modern and luxurious look. This theme is continued inside with an upgraded tan interior that replaces the utilitarian gray color.

However, the biggest change is the redesigned expansion system. Briggs & Riley has gotten rid of the zippered expansion system and replaced it with their new VX variable expansion system. This system uses Velcro to allow the consumer to adjust the expansion to fit their items, rather than a zipper system which is either open or closed. No other luggage manufacturer has a system like this; it is truly one of a kind.

Another unique feature that Briggs & Riley offers is matching accessories. Most brands offer maybe a tote and a wheeled tote. However, Briggs has expanded their Transcend accessories to include wheeled totes, a shopping tote, toiletry kits, and new for 2017 a cabin bag and backpacks. All these accessories are available in all three colors and easily fit over the handle of all of their bags. These are must-have items when purchasing your new Briggs.

While the Briggs & Riley Baseline series is still the choice for the business traveler, the new Transcend series is a great choice for the frequent leisure traveler looking for a quality bag that is fashion forward. With all these new features it is one of our top sellers. Check out our website today to see all the sizes and styles or stop by one of our stores in Mt. Prospect or Northbrook, IL for a product demonstration. Once you own a Briggs & Riley you will be a loyal for life.

Affordable Animal Friendly Fashion Handbags

I love handbags; I love all the fabulous colors, styles, textures and shapes!!!  However, I do not love the big price tags that accompany them. That is why I am a huge fan of Big Buddha Handbags.  Big Buddha has a wonderful selection of very stylish, very fashionable bags at very affordable pricing. Gorgeous satchels, cross body bags, hobos and totes that look like designer handbags but are priced at a fraction of the cost.  What makes these bags so affordable is the vegan leather they are made from;  a leather-like material that not only looks and feels like real leather but is what some would call  “politically correct leather” because of the way it is produced. The manufacturing of vegan handbags does not involve the hides of any particular animal.  All the components of vegan leather are man-made……. therefore another great reason to love Big Buddha Handbags besides their chic looks and incredible pricing, is their “animal friendly” make-up!

Some of the top selling Big Buddha Handbags include:

The Big Buddha Mia Satchel – With its’ over-sized bow and unique feminine satchel shape, that includes a convenient shoulder strap, the Mia is one of our best selling Big Buddha bags to date. A versatile handbag (available in red, black, blue and grey) that works for both formal occasions and casual every day. A handbag that gives you a very feminine lady-like look with a vintage feel and a whole lot of modern day appeal as well!

The Big Buddha Adele Cross-Body Bag – The vegan leather of the Adele is incredible.  With an authentic snake-like appearance, the Adele will fool even the most sophisticated handbag connoisseur. Smart yet elegant tassels, a removable, adjustable shoulder strap (with drop down length of 38” – 43”) and a multitude of slip and zippered pockets, the Adele has just about everything a girl could ask for in a cross body and more!

The Big Buddha Brianna Tote Bag – You will love the metallic gunmetal sheen of the convertible tote / cross-body Brianna! With the Brianna, Big Buddha has truly mastered the art of vegan leather design. The Brianna’s textured exterior is so unique and fun that it is perfect for almost any outfit; a great year round bag for all with tons of space!!

The Big Buddha Courtney Zig Zag Hobo – The latest version of the Courtney was just released in  bronze and it is super cute!  The mixed metallic coloring, the fun zig zag design and the big slouchy hobo shape is terrific.  This is one bag that pictures cannot do justice to. A really unique looking bag that will definitely stand out from the pack if you are one of those handbag consumers looking for something special and unique in your handbag!!

With Big Buddha you are not only getting a dazzling “leather-like” handbag for a lot less money, you are also purchasing from a manufacturer that is not contributing to an industry where cows, pigs, or other exotic animals (alligators and snakes) are put in harm’s way for the sake of fashion!  Check out Big Buddha Handbags at Irv’s Luggage today!!!

The Return of Lady Like Structured Handbags

Handbag news flash!!  While the latest handbag styles have trended toward large slouchy bags with big chunky hardware, grommets & more; we are now seeing a resurgence of the more “lady-like” structured handbags.

Like anything in the fashion industry, if you hold onto something long enough it will eventually come back into vogue.  Redolent of the purses our mothers and grandmothers toted around these bags have a vintage feel with a modern twist; they are newly improved and hotter than ever!!!

Some great examples of these revived handbags with fabulous 21^st Century style include:

• The Dooney & Bourke Florentine Flap Satchel:  The Flap Satchel has a very traditional form reminiscent of the structured handbags of the past, but what is different and better about this handbag is the leather. The Florentine’s Vachetta leather is casual, yet elegant, with a rich beautiful texture that is both natural looking and sophisticated, and with a patina that becomes more and more beautiful with age. The stunning but subtle gold hardware Dooney has chosen, adds a distinguished elegance without overpowering the bag; less is truly more in this case, wow!
• The Big Buddha Mia Handbag:  With its’ bell-like shape, distinguished handles, zipper closure and big bow on the front of the bag, this new style from Big Buddha epitomizes the lady-like trend. It has a distinctive shape that is both soft and feminine. The long shoulder strap that comes with the bag gives you the option of wearing it cross body, adding a lot of versatility to this bag for the modern woman on the go!
• Harveys Seatbelt Bags Stella Hobo:  Although it does have the name hobo attached to it, there is not much ‘hobo’ in this handbag!  With a feminine teardrop shape that comes in both small and large sizes, and elegant silver hardware; this satchel style handbag brings you back to the 1950’s and 60’s with a great vintage look that is a little retro, very functional, indestructible and super chic.

I believe absolutely in the power of women today; we can do and be anything we choose. I also believe that we, as women, can still be exquisitely feminine no matter what we do, and that we should embrace that part of ourselves. So jump on board and try out this latest fashion craze, lady-like handbags….. Mom and Grandma would be proud!!!

Mother’s Day Harveys Seatbeltbag Free Gift with Purchase

Mothers, where would we be without our mothers?  From the day we were born, our mothers have always been there; through thick and thin our mothers are someone we can always count on. So this Mother’s Day, Irv’s Luggage would like to help celebrate these very important people in our lives, with a Harveys Seatbeltbag free gift with purchase! Between now and Mother’s Day, Irv’s Luggage will be offering a free rosette (a $28 value) with the purchase of several stunning Harveys Seatbeltbags!

The Harveys Seatbeltbags included in this fabulous free gift with purchase offer include:

• The Medium Tote in Red
• The Convertible Tote in Blackberry and Treecycle
• The Large Satchel in Red and Treecycle
• The Large Tote in Black and Red
• The Boat Tote in Tough Love
• The Small and Large Stella Hobo in Black
• The Messenger Bag in Treecycle
• The Berkeley Bucket Bag in Treecycle

Harveys Seatbeltbags are extremely tough, reliable and beautiful, just like our mothers!!!  This Mother’s Day surprise her with a terrific handbag from Harveys Seatbeltbag, and throw in the versatile and extremely popular rosette on us!  Happy Mother’s Day from Irv’s Luggage!!!

Designer Luggage Spotlight

It’s the night before your trip. All your clothes are laid out, and ready to be packed. You’ve been bragging about this to your co-workers and friends for weeks now. Every minute of the vacation is planned, and you cannot wait to get away. Maybe it’s that relaxation time on the beach, or perhaps you’re on your way to explore ancient runes you’ve been dreaming of since you were young. Everything seems perfect. And then you open up your suitcase to find the zipper broken and a hole on the side. What to do? You’ve been planning this trip for months, and now the panic sets in.

Want to never worry about that dreaded moment again? Here at Irv’s we carry a plethora of designer luggage that will last you a lifetime full of trips. It’s hard to know where to start and why to invest in designer luggage. To help you out, we are highlighting the best of the best and providing complete motivation on why now is the time to buy.

Kathy Van Zeeland

Kathy Van Zeeland makes a statement. The company’s goal is to create the highest possible quality bags and luggage pieces out of non-leather materials. Products are always up to date with the latest fashion trends, and are instantly recognizable as Kathy Van Zeeland products. Many of the pieces come with easy to spot and beautifully crafted pink logo tags so you can grab your bag from the mess of luggage pieces no matter where you are. Whether it’s a handbag or rolling carry-on bag, Kathy Van Zeeland offers the best functionality and style. There are multiple mesh compartments and easy to use straps so that everything inside stays put and can be reached without effort.

Kenneth Cole

Kenneth Cole makes designer luggage for the everyday traveler. It looks sharp without being extravagant. It’s high quality and will last. It will never go out of style. You have your choice of leather and non-leather bags and cases in a variety of colors and sizes. It’s easy to set the whole family up and keep everything together. Luggage pieces offer a four wheel system for comfortable gripping and steering while on the go. If this is your first time breaking into the designer luggage market, Kenneth Cole is definitely a good place to start.

 

Adrienne Vittadini

Adrienne Vittadini is the epitome of elegance for the modern woman. The brand designs pieces with a European flare that make them sophisticated, timeless and approachable. Handbags and rolling luggage are all equipped with laptop compartments to keep your devices safe while travelling. All series are made with lightweight material and sturdy straps to ensure comfort and function.

I know, you are thoroughly convinced. So head on over here, and check out our vast selection of designer luggage sets.

A Lightsaber Fit for a Princess- American Tourister Luggage

          Attention: calling all movie fans. I repeat, calling all movie fans. Are you a movie junkie? Do you love infamous series? Whether you are a fan of the famed Star Wars series or not, you cannot deny its great impact on American culture and the movie industry. Each film is a success and you can buy every product imaginable to show which side you’re on. This December, the mega series will release the newest film. No doubt, there will be super fans lined up overnight for tickets and a coveted spot in their local theatres. They will be decked out in memorabilia to show their support and love of the franchise.

To accompany the highly anticipated release of this film, American Tourister Luggage has released an entire series of hard side luggage devoted to Star Wars. You can choose from various sizes in each of the legendary characters of Strom Trooper, Darth Vader and R2D2. American Tourister is a solid brand that produces some of the best luggage on the market. Each of the pieces in the series offer single spinner wheels for easy glide and navigation through the airport or hotel lobby. The Star Wars logo is branded on the push button pull handle as well as the zipper pulls so there is no room for confusion. Each suitcase includes a large interior mesh pocket for optimal packing organization as well as cross straps to keep everything nice and tidy.

Are you more a Disney fan than the fight for good vs. evil? Is frozen still stuck in your head because your daughter hasn’t stopped singing “Let It Go” for the past year? Don’t worry, American Tourister has something for you, too. In addition to the Star Wars collection, the dependable brand has also introduced a Disney line of hard side luggage. You can choose from both Mr. and Mrs. Mouse, the trio of princesses, Cars, and of course the great and powerful Frozen theme. The Disney line, much like the Star Wars pieces are all produced remarkably well with plenty of compartments and straps for supreme efficiency and usefulness.

Check out the new American Tourister collections here.

Heys America Luggage Meshes Pop Art and Travel

Heys America Luggage has become a global leader in luggage design with their innovative and original collections. They have created two Limited Edition luggage series, Britto and Fernando Volken Togni. Each collection combines a unique pop art design with the high standard features of all Heys America cases. These designs and patterns transform your luggage into a work of art.

The Heys America Fernando Volken Togni (FVT) Collection is unlike any other. It features three groups; FVT Cities, FVT World, and FVT USA. Togni is a Brazilian-born illustrator currently living in London. His art style is bold and unique. He uses vivid colors and sharp shapes to create a design of organized chaos. Each collection offers a three piece luggage set, such as the Heys America FVT USA 3 Piece Set, that includes 21”, 26”, and 30” uprights. All uprights are also available as single items to better suit your needs or allow you to mix and match. The Cities Collection highlights New York in the Heys America FVT Cities 30” Spinner.

The Britto by Heys America Collection, while also featuring a pop art style, is vastly different from FVT. It is designed by Romero Britto, a Brazilian-born Florida resident with a neo-pop style. Neo-pop combines pop art with graffiti. With this style, he created lively, fresh and happy designs shown on this Britto by Heys A New Day 26” Expandable Spinner. The bright colors stand out on the hardside cases. Like the FVT, this collection includes luggage sets and individual spinner suitcases, along with beauty cases and smaller travel duffels, totes and business pieces.

All Heys America collections are held to a high standard. Each suitcase, made from polycarbonate composite material, is both lightweight and durable, even the Britto by Heys Butterfly Love 30” Expandable Spinner. The impact-resistant and scratch-resistant printed exterior is protected by a layer of clear coat that provides a beautiful, glossy finish. Designed for easy maneuverability, each suitcase has four spinner wheels for an ultra-smooth and effortless 360 degree rolling. All pieces, including the Heys America FVT Cities 21” Spinner, feature a fully lined interior with built-in divider and mesh pocket. Heys included a built-in TSA lock for your safety and a zippered expansion system to provide you with 20% more packing capacity.

Pop art originated in the mid-1950s in Britain and late 1950s in America. The term was invented in 1955 by Lawrence Alloway, a British curator. Characterized by pop culture and consumerism, the concept of pop art refers to the attitude and not the art itself. It often uses images currently used in advertising, such as logos or product labels, comic books, and news. The style is bold, vibrant, and simple, and often features bright colors. Shop Irv’s Luggage for travel goods that are functional and durable as well as reflective of your style and personality.

Hobo the Original Handbags

There are many kinds of bags you can purchase in different styles and with different features. One of the top handbag brands out there today is Hobo the Original. They are classic yet stylish and fun bags with lots of functionality built in, including cell phone pockets and multiple compartments. These sophisticated bags are available in different types of leather from vintage Italian leather to buttery, tumbled super soft leather.

Designer Hobo bags offer timeless style that will last through many seasons of use. These handbags come in many sizes and shapes, including cross body bags, shoulder bags, totes, convertible bags, satchels and more. They are available in trendier, seasonal colors as well as basic black and earth tones. The high quality construction and fine materials will perfectly suit your taste and preference.

Some of the collections from Hobo are:

• Hobo Supersoft Leather Handbags. The beauty of these bags is in their soft shape, natural beauty and luxurious hand. These handbags age beautifully and take on a rich patina over time.
• Hobo Vintage Leather Totes. The Italian leather used in their Vintage line offers rich colors such as Garnet and Cobalt for Fall and Mint and Begonia for Spring. Pass on black and grab a bag in color!

When shopping for your next handbag, treat yourself to a beautiful leather bag from Hobo the Original. You’ll be happy you did.