Luella Bartley
Baby Giselle
Luella Bartley is a British fashion designer. She launched the Luella designer label in 1999 and has been based in New York for six years, returning to London in September / October 2007 for London Fashion Week and to open her new London store. Luella Bartley designs fashion clothing and bags. This website contains mostly information on the range of Luella Bags.
The bag pictured to the left is the Luella Bartley Baby Gisele leather bag. Characteristically it has two leather heart fobs attached to it. This bag has been very popular with celebrities including Kylie Minogue, Kim Cattrall and Sienna Miller.
The recommended retail price of this bag in the UK was £395. However, you may now be able to buy it more cheaply online.
Luella's Awards
In 2006, Luella Bartley received two awards for design. She was awarded "Designer of the Year" by both Elle Magazine and Glamour Magazine. The nominations for the British Fashion Awards 2007 have just been announced, and the two contenders are Luella Bartley and Stella McCartney. Luella was also nominated for this prestigious prize last year, but lost out in the end to Giles Deacon. (Giles who? Never heard of him!).
The winners will be announced at a prestigious dinner to be held in Westminster on November 27th, 2007. Results will then be posted here!
About Luella's Gisele
Luella claims that her designs are primarily influenced by England and everything quintessentially English, including the equestrian and music scenes. She likes to make big bags and sometimes has to reduce the size of them as she has been advised that they are too big for normal handbags. They are still a decent size though, and you will no doubt find room for all your bits and pieces if you are lucky enough to own one.
In her own words, she describes the Gisele as being a large, classic bag, but with an "S&M" twist, with all the rings and buckles. However, she also says that all the strapping is very equestrian. The bag has two short handles and is either hand held or tucked over one shoulder.
Luella Ceases Trading
Unfortunately, Luella has now ceased trading. This is very sad, as I think Luella bags are absolutely gorgeous. It must just be a sign of the times.
Nevertheless, you can still find Luella bags online, especially on sites like eBay. If you like shopping in Designer Outlets, but don't always have the time to visit them, try out Designer Outlet shopping - it's the easiest and cheapest way of buying your favourite brands online.