The decision on color was actually pretty easy - they had it in Black (which is more of a Gunmetal Grey) and the Taupe. They didn't have the red (altho they said I'd get one if I wanted -- I said no, why make the decision even harder!). They also haven't recd the Firebird Rio yet (which I considered instead of the stam), but I think the stam is the right bag.
The Black is gorgeous, but the studs and hardware just really stood out on the Taupe. I was wearing my black leather jacket at the time too (which didn't help the black's cause at all!), so the black bag just blended, whereas the Taupe just really stood out and made a statement. I knew almost immediately that I was going to to choose the Taupe but was absolutely certain once I had tried them on. But don't get me wrong - the Black is almost equally stunning, I just think the details blend more and stand out more on the Taupe)
The color is so unique - it actually reminds me of the Washed Rose from a few yrs back, altho it may not be as "Rosey" as that. There are definite rose undertones to it tho and the metallic finish is very moderate (it's not a really shiny bag like the quilted metallics from last year). But the leather - that's what sold me the most. I know I keep saying "Amazing" but I can't think of any other word to describe it! It is so soft, so smooshy, perfectly distressed and very lightweight. I don't know if it's lamb or calf tho (the care tag just says "tanned leather" - not specifically lamb, like some other bags have said (the Small Pouch I bought is lamb)). I think the leather really stood out on the Taupe, where it was hard to see all the details and the distressing on the black.
I am so happy that they had this bag - I've had my eye on it ever since I saw matchka's spy pics from NY in the fall. I'm also really happy with the changes they made to the bags - I was worried that the metallic finish would be too much for my taste, but it really is perfect. I can easily see this line being a top seller this season. IMO, none of the other bags in the store even came close to matching their beauty!!
The Black is gorgeous, but the studs and hardware just really stood out on the Taupe. I was wearing my black leather jacket at the time too (which didn't help the black's cause at all!), so the black bag just blended, whereas the Taupe just really stood out and made a statement. I knew almost immediately that I was going to to choose the Taupe but was absolutely certain once I had tried them on. But don't get me wrong - the Black is almost equally stunning, I just think the details blend more and stand out more on the Taupe)
The color is so unique - it actually reminds me of the Washed Rose from a few yrs back, altho it may not be as "Rosey" as that. There are definite rose undertones to it tho and the metallic finish is very moderate (it's not a really shiny bag like the quilted metallics from last year). But the leather - that's what sold me the most. I know I keep saying "Amazing" but I can't think of any other word to describe it! It is so soft, so smooshy, perfectly distressed and very lightweight. I don't know if it's lamb or calf tho (the care tag just says "tanned leather" - not specifically lamb, like some other bags have said (the Small Pouch I bought is lamb)). I think the leather really stood out on the Taupe, where it was hard to see all the details and the distressing on the black.
I am so happy that they had this bag - I've had my eye on it ever since I saw matchka's spy pics from NY in the fall. I'm also really happy with the changes they made to the bags - I was worried that the metallic finish would be too much for my taste, but it really is perfect. I can easily see this line being a top seller this season. IMO, none of the other bags in the store even came close to matching their beauty!!
You go girl! That stam buy is definitely worthy of a first boutique experience!! Your description and pics definitely makes me want one too. I absolutely love the tarnish effect on the hardware and I just love the look of the leather. You are right, I think this bag might just be a best-seller especially after your glowing report of it here! Yay!! I love, love it...now where are the modelling pics. BTW, the pouch is gorgeous too, a sure eye-catcher and very useful too. So a BIG CONGRATS to you, JJ!! Excellent purchase, am soo happy for you esp after your recent bag demise
). It was in one of the pics tho (I cropped here for you). When the bag appeared on the website, it looked more like a shoulder/hobo bag but it actually looks more like a tote. The strap is short, altho I imagine the bag will slouch somewhat so you should be able to get it on the shoulder. The top of the bag is almost as wide as the bottom, so it looks boxier than it's stock image (and not as tall).
congrats JJ!
Congrats!! I love the stud detailing.
That Firebird is truly unique! 
But I do think I might be popping in from time to time just to check out what's new
