Hooti Couture

Crazy for Korets!

We have to share an excerpt of a note from Camille, who lives in Boston and has a passion for Koret purses, just like our Mom once did (see "Bag Time" posting below):
" About 8 years ago I started buying vintage purses from thrift stores.  No rhyme or reason to my purchases other than what appealed to me – boxy frames, bold hardware, studded feet.  But my collecting became more focused when I saw my first Murray Kruger with a pale aqua blue leather interior.  SIGH.  I realized then there was more to these handbags and I set about scouring the internet to learn more about vintage purses.  And while there are many labels I admire,  Koret is my absolute favorite.  I have a suede bag with twisted Lucite handles, an elegant black travel-style handbag that would compete with any Gucci, a velvet tapestry in browns and purples, and more—all from Koret.  But my all time favorites are the huge carpet bags lined in soft red leather and stamped 'made in Italy' with matching change purse attached by gold chain.  I have two such bags that I just simply adore.  Here is a picture of them with a smaller Koret."

Thanks, Camille...and we will make sure Mom sees this posting, too. Currently she is carrying a vintage  small gray leather goatskin shoulder bag  (not Koret, but very nicely made) that Melissa found on eBay. She still loves purses!

Striking Gator Gold...in Auckland, New Zealand

We just had to share a recent email from a magazine editor in New Zealand who is so passionate about vintage that she recently took a copy of Alligators with her when she traveled in the U.S. But it's the find she made after returning home that we are celebrating here:

"This is totally silly, since I've never met you, but thought you might like to see this alligator (crocodile?) bag I bought this week in a hospice shop in NZ. It's the first alligator bag I've ever seen in NZ, and is just stunning. Apart from the handle it's in almost mint condition, as if it's never been used. I bought it for $75 (about US $50) and still can't believe my luck."

Thanks, Christine, and if we ever make it to NZ we want you as a thrift-shop guide! And, FYI, this particular type of gator skin is called "hornback" but we know there are more knowledgeable gator/croc folks out there...other info is welcomed.