Harajuku Lovers: Super Kawaii Handbags

October 17, 2:38 PMPop Media ExaminerKatrina-Kasey Wheeler

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If you are a handbag fanatic like me, then you were elated when Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Lovers line was launched in 2005. The clothing items are created at a Los Angeles based company, Jerry Leigh. The forty-five-year-old firm mainly produced sportswear adorned with Disney and Warner Bros. characters, that is until Harajuku Lovers came along. The line consists of everything from handbags and wallets (which are produced by Schifter & Partners) to shirts and shoes, as well as accessories and stationery. It is a line for children, adults and everyone in-between. Many celebrities don the apparel and handbags, and even their famous offspring — including Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and of course Stefani’s son, Kingston Rossdale.

As a self-proclaimed Harajuku Lover – one of the many great things about the line that I appreciate, is that a celebrity sized bank account isn’t necessary to afford it; and with the current state of the economy, that is something everyone can appreciate. The line can be found at such high-end stores as Bloomingdale's, Macy’s and Nordstrom. It can also be purchased at trendy boutiques like Hollywood’s Kitson, and the hugely popular The Giant Peach.

Since the 1970s, Kawaii (cuteness in Japanese) has become a major facet of Japanese popular culture. It can be seen in every area such as entertainment, clothing, personal appearance, behavior, mannerisms, and the like. The visual grammar of the line’s collections is what distinguishes it from its competitors. Perhaps the Harajuku Lovers tag line says it best: A Fatal Attraction to Cuteness. For patrons of the line, it is exactly that.

Each season unveils new surprises for patrons of the line, and this fall and winter collections are no different. This holiday season, a new holiday gift box will be featured with certain bag styles. The Boombox Gift Boxes will play snippets of Stefani’s songs, such as, “What You Waiting For,” and “Rich Girl.” This will be a gift on every Harajuku Lover’s list.

Harajuku Lovers - Snowbunny Pop Bag with Boombox Gift Box ($38.00). Print features Gwen & the Harajuku Girls in snow bunny outfits.  The inner lining is yellow peacock print.  Boombox Gift Box plays a snippet of "What You Waiting For?"  This box is available only with this bag.

Harajuku Lovers Candy Bag in Snowbunny print ($78.00). Poly twill, koosh ball charm, and top snap closure. Print features Gwen & the Harajuku Girls in snow bunny outfits.  The inner lining is yellow peacock print. 

Harajuku Lovers Sparkle tote bag in Planet HL ($78.00).  Washed canvas. Comes with removable bandana scarf. .Print features Baby holding HL balloons with a trail of stars.  Back side says, "BABY"  The lining is pink Planet HL.

Harajuku Lovers Planet HL Pop cosmetic case ($35.00). 

Harajuku Lovers Candy Bag in Squaresville print ($78.00).  Poly twill, koosh ball charm, and top snap closure. Print features a rainbow of "Harajuku Lovers" in a square pattern.  The inner lining is hot pink peacock print.

This holiday season; be sure to look for some items from the Harajuku Lovers winter collection. All items featured can be purchased at HarajukuLovers.com and TheGiantPeach.com.

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