B. Makowsky bags are not a wise choice

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#136
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this thread! I've seen B. Makowsky at NR and TJM at pretty decent prices. I almost bought one but decided not to because I wasn't familiar with the brand. The bags aren't cheap so I wanted to do some research and make sure I wouldn't be wasting my money. I will definitely avoid this brand!

As a side note, how interesting that this brand is connected with KVZ!
 
#139
I bought one a few years back as my 'beater' bag...when I don't want to take my B-bags to the park or in the rain. It has held up quite nicely in spite of all the abuse it gets put through. It was only $99 at TJ Maxx, so I didn't expect it to last as long as it has. I really like the style and leather too. I thought it was a decent brand from my own experience, so I am a little surprised to hear this.
 
#141
B. Makowsky and Kathy Van Zeeland are married, aren't they? Thought I saw that on QVC. I had a B. Makowsky that seemed pretty decent quality but the hardware was so heavy it was difficult to open the bag because the hardware was always in the way. Goodwill got that one!
 
#144
privatejoy said:
Just an FYI: B Makowsky, KVZ and Tiagnello are all owned by the same parent company.
Click to expand...

I didn't know this! Makes sense now why they are all so prevalent on QVC.

jroger1 said:
B. Makowsky and Kathy Van Zeeland are married, aren't they? Thought I saw that on QVC. I had a B. Makowsky that seemed pretty decent quality but the hardware was so heavy it was difficult to open the bag because the hardware was always in the way. Goodwill got that one!
Click to expand...

Yep, Kathy & Bruce are married. They mention it a lot on QVC when either of them is on. I read Kathy is pregnant too on the Q boards, but I'm not 100% sure that's true.
 
#147
Yikes! I was given a used B. Makowsky bag from a coworker, who says she used it a handful of times and grew tired of the color...

The handles are fraying and the bottom of the bag is severely stained and won't come clean. I know it was free, but when she spent almost $300 for it, you'd think it would last! Her main bag is also B. Makowsky, but the handles are sewn differently and it looks as new as the day she bought it. How strange!

I'm gonna stick with my pals, Louis and Coach.

Update: Oh, I see that Mr. Makowsky and KVZ are married. the large gold hardware on the Makowsky bags should've been a tip off.
 
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#148
They don't own their line anymore....

The Chinese "empire" Li and Fung bought it.

You can google Li and Fung and read how much stuff they own...esp. as far as "American" clothing/ manufacturing lines.
 
#149
I have one that I got at a thrift store for $15. I love it and it has held up well considering I am the 2nd owner. I love the leather and I like the lining. I don't think either are creepy or feel cheap. I'm sorry this op had problems, but I like the brand and just ordered a 2nd in the same style. I don't like KVZ. I really think they feel cheap.
 
#150
I bought one on double clearance at Dillards, was around $200 and I got it for $40, which I think these bags should never be priced over $80 full price. It looks like the type of bag that will scuff easily but the color is fairly unique and for that price if it scuffs no big loss. I did try to waterproof it with Apple but tested a spot of leather on the inside first....good thing because it water stains from the waterproof liquid if that makes sense. If you can buy one cheap go for it but don't pay big $ or expect it to be super durable
 
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