Attractive laptop bags for the seriously paranoid (like me)

by Annie Scott on

Loopbags is a line of laptop bags that really, really protect your laptop. And for some of us, that means being able to sleep on the plane.

Not that I need an excuse to be protective of my laptop computer — it’s a valuable little thing — but, you know, I travel, and it’s my job to write about it. And if I get to say, Puerto Rico, and my laptop is busted? I am screwed.

Loopbags has laptop briefcases, backpacks (shown), messengers, totes and sleeves in a variety of pleasing colors for men and women. What really impresses me about these bags, though, is the quality of the engineering. These bags have zippers which can virtually unfold the entire bag and give you an infinite choice of possibilities for where to keep what — except the computer of course, which has its designated, waterproof (even the zippers), and snugly padded pocket. And yes, all Loop bags fit under the sit in front of you and/or in the overhead compartment. The shoulders are adjustable ergonomic nylon with shock-resistant padding, and it’s also full of secret pockets for cash, passports and other stuff I get paranoid about.

I’ve gotta say, this is the first backpack I’ve seen in years that I wouldn’t be embarrassed to wear. You can browse the APLF Award winning bags by style or laptop size.

Pictured is the Loopbag Vanguard Backpack in Sand, Azure, and Lime — and wait until you see it from all sides! Check out the site for more views and zips/unzips, and click here to shop. These are currently on sale for $114 (from $142).

“We’ll overnight a bikini to your hotel.” – Lisa Curran

by Annie Scott on

Lisa Curran is the designer of the luxury Lisa Curran swimwear line — those suits you often see in the giftshop at your boutique hotel.

Some of the big hotels carry her designs too, like many Ritz-Carltons. What’s so special about these suits? They fit. No — they really, really fit. And if you can’t find the right size or style at your hotel (or local department store), call them up. They’ll overnight you a suit!

One of the reasons that hotels like to carry Lisa Curran is that they don’t really have room for a huge inventory, and they know people are going to be satisfied with her suits. Curran starting designing swimwear ten years ago, and was one of the first designers to sell bikini tops and bottoms separately. Because not doing that is simple highway robbery. She also, as you can see in the image, creates gathers and folds — always using the best Italian fabrics available — which lay modestly where you’re skinnier and support generously where you’re fatter. I’m talking about boobs, here, people. There, I said it.

Also, if you like the color but not the suit, like the top but not the bottom, or vice versa, you’re in luck — the suits are created in “groups,” and there’s probably something else in that “group” you’d like — and it’s easy to order online at LisaCurran.com.

Also, Lisa has teamed up with healthy skincare product line Lavanila to create a new group that pairs lavender suits with lavender scents: The Summer Essentials Kit. The Summer Essentials Kit includes the suit you see here or the ones in the gallery below (on hot girls), as well as Lavanila Vanilla Lavender Healthy Lip Shine and Lavanila Vanilla Lavender Healthy Body Butter. You will look and smell delicious.

Better still, part of the proceeds from each Summer Essentials Kit (available for $175 starting Friday, mark your calendars) will go to The Ocean Project, which seeks to increase the success of ocean conservation by raising awareness. Now it’s time for you to raise your awareness of hot models in purple:
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Eco-conscious carry-on style from Canopy Verde

by Annie Scott on

We already showed you the greatest manbag ever, the Cormorant by Ashley Watson, and the terrific vegan luggage and carry-ons from Jane Marvel. Well, we spotted one more line of earth-friendly travel bags at the BagTrends Green Arm Candy Party — Canopy Verde.

What make Canopy Verde special is their sense of environmental responsibility. Founder and designer Linda Wong sees that all Canopy Verde‘s materials are sourced locally in China, and the bags, from clutches to weekenders, are made from eco-friendly organic cotton and bamboo, chrome-free leather, OEKO-TEX 100 certified dyes, and chemical-free embroidery.

The Cassia Weekender bags, shown, are 17″ x 14″ x 8″ with a 7″ drop, $199, and feature organic cotton and bamboo blend fabric and lining, as well as lots of interior and exterior pockets, including a zippered back pocket for newspapers and magazines, wooden “feet” on the bottom panel, and a hidden magnetic closure to keep the front flap in place.

Check out more of the practical and earth-friendly bags from Canopy Verde below — these are perfect for the airplane or a long weekend!
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Affordable, eco-conscious luggage from Jane Marvel

by Annie Scott on

Jane Marvel started makes handbags and luggage that don’t hurt the planet, look cool, and won’t weigh you down. “It’s like flying first class at economy ticket prices.”

We spotted the handbags and luggage at the BagTrends Green Arm Candy Party on Monday, and were blown away by the fresh, lightweight designs. All the pieces are waterproof, easy to clean, well-lined, vegan, and affordable. Added bonus? There’s a free gift in every bag, including spa kits and other surprises!

Jane Marvel makes everything from simple tote bags to luxury handbags, but naturally, we want to show you the bright, pretty luggage and carry-ons, like the “Mile High Bag” pictured here. Did we mention lightweight? Check out our favorite styles below — and note that each style comes in a variety of fabrics:
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