Sunday, November 29, 2015

‘Tis the Season

Do you enjoy seeking out special gifts for a dear friend?  I have such a friend, she is a true blessing and long ago we lived in the same state, but then I moved away.  Since that time it has been our way to send birthday and Christmas boxes to each other.  14 years of this tradition and I still get so excited thinking of what to surprise her with that my heart races!  This year the surprise will be Massaccesi….. shhhhhhhhh, don’t tell her!

As soon as I select one gift, I find I am often already thinking of the next.  That places my mind on a list creating path consisting of other sweet MM treats she might cherish in the future.  And then I thought of you.  Here are some lovely Massaccesi gift ideas that you might like to surprise your dearest friend with as I will mine.


Stella
Of course to really know if a gift is suitable for your friend, it is always helpful to have firsthand experience with the item.  Love myself some Stella!  She is exquisite, so classic and modern all at the same time.  The Croco Print Calf leathers are timeless and this design lends itself to showcase stunning modern elements, it is such a fabulous combination.

Stella in Dark Brown Croco Print Calf Leather with Light Gold Hardware

Stella in Dark Brown Croco Print Calf Leather with Light Gold Hardware - back

Stella in Dark Brown Croco Print Calf Leather with Light Gold Hardware - interior

Stella in Dark Brown Croco Print Calf Leather with Light Gold Hardware - interior



MM Bracelet, Necklace and Bag Charms
Basking in the 22 plated gold with leather pendant has become daily tangible bliss to me.  I completely adore my MM bracelet!  It feels really lovely on, and I find myself reaching over to touch it often throughout the day.  Beautifully handcrafted just like our MM bags, if you think she would prefer a necklace or bag charm, Massaccesi has you covered!

MM Bracelet with Plum Pebbled Leather


MM Necklace with Africa Bronze Leather

MM Bag Charm with Plum Pebbled on Taupe Pebbled Minerva

MM Bag Charm with Plum Pebbled on Rust Brown Vacchetta Selene Zip Midi



Penelope
New girl on the block!  I don’t have mine yet, but am certain she is something my friend would fall in love with, so on the list she goes!  A perfect pouch with wristlet strap in gorgeous Pebbled leather and a wide open slip pocket on both sides of her interior, who can ask for anything more?
Penelope in Amaranto Pebbled



Penelope in Apple Green Pebbled

Penelope in Apple Green Pebbled - interior



Phoebe
Beautiful Phoebe with her flap closure is divine!  Equally perfect when worn crossbody or on the shoulder.  Additionally, the all chain strap is such that it may easily be crisscrossed under the flap and doubled making her also wonderful to wear in the crook of your arm.  My sweet friend loves to travel just like I do, so I am thrilled that the interior back panel slots have room for her passport and cards.

Phoebe in Dark Teal Pebbled with Light Gold Hardware
Phoebe in Pearl Grey Pebbled with Light Gold Hardware - interior


Phoebe in Deep Blue Africa with Silver Hardware - interior



Flora
I ordered my Flora after I saw a customer’s gorgeous picture and it has been love ever since!  The top zipper closure is attractive and secure.  Just like Phoebe’s interior, the back panel has enough room to hold a passport and cards.  She is very comfortable for all day wear.  Care to order an extra all leather strap for Flora so your friend may enjoy a second look?  No problem!

Flora in Africa Bronze with Light Gold Hardware

Flora in Purple Pebbled with Light Gold Hardware - interior


Flora in Africa Bronze with Light Gold Hardware - interior



MM Organizers
Would your friend benefit from an accessory that will allow her to transfer her belongings from one handbag to another with ease?  Look no further!  The MM Organizers are available in two sizes, small and large.  The suede is delicious and the scent intoxicating.  Plenty of room to keep everything tidy with easy access to items as she reaches inside her bag.

Small Dark Grey Organizer 
Small Dark Grey Organizer - interior

Large Brown Organizer




Large Brown Organizer with Massaccesi Phoebe inside


Stella, Phoebe, Flora and the MM Organizers are now available on our website www.marcomassaccesi.it  Penelope, the MM Bracelet, Necklace and Bag Charms will be on the website soon, in the meantime, they may be ordered via email at my address below. 

As the holidays approach us, we wish you and those you love a joyous season full of many blessings!





Saturday, November 14, 2015

The Massaccesi Customer Chronicles!

We are so lucky to have the privilege of communicating with wonderful customers all over the world!  We love the questions they ask, hearing about their decision process and ultimately which style, leather, hardware and lining they choose.  So, we decided to get a little jiggy outside of the Workshop and bring you the first installment of our customer chronicles.  Graciously some lovely ladies have allowed us to share a few of their favorite things with you!

Hello Ms. D, thank you for joining us!  What is your favorite Massaccesi style and why?  "It really is a toss up between Minerva (midi) and Zhoe Legend.  If I remember right, an olive Minerva was the photo on the first page of MM's website.  I cannot quite put my finger on it, but there really is something unique about its design.  Maybe it has something to do with the squarish front pockets and the geometric flap matched with curvy pleated sides (I think you referred to these before as the Italian hips??).  And I love the way it hangs on the shoulder, just the right strap length.  The slouch at the top is great especially once the leather has softened a bit.  And of course, the organization inside is just well thought out!
The shoulder style of the Zhoe Legend is something new for my bag collection but I fell in love with it the moment I received my order.  The size is right for me, some may find it big for the style, but I love that it can hold much of the stuff I carry daily.  I also love the 3 compartments.  When you look at the bag from the side, these 3 compartments give it a unique design!  I also love the more classic boxy shape than the trapeze-y regular Zhoe.  And for my particular piece, I truly love the color!"


In terms of leather, which do you gravitate towards color, texture or is there another factor you take into consideration?  "I gravitate more towards the texture of the leather.  I've always expressed in TPF that I love the smoothness of the Nappa leather.  Though Pebbled Leather is equally beautiful and of high quality, I gravitate more towards the texture of Nappa. And now that there is a softer Merinos, I can't wait to feel a complete bag in this leather.  I have Merinos swatches but I think touching/seeing a full bag is different altogether.  And, I would like to add that I really love leather scent. I sniff my leather bags. MM leathers have lasting wonderful smell!"

“Studies show” ;) that opening your newly arrived handbag parcel immediately, rather than waiting until later might just elevate one’s mood, what do you think?!?     "Oh, I totally agree!! ;)  I don't think I can wait a few minutes after receiving the package to open it! I will surely get restless and feel uneasy seeing it there but not being able to rip the box apart. I try to calm myself when opening a package, but really, I feel adrenaline rushing and would like to tear up the box.  But of course I don't do that lest I cause a cut or something on the leather. You see, there is hope for me as I am not yet totally mad. :)   And when I finally see and touch and smell my bags, I am like on cloud nine floating!!  I remember when I got my Zhoe Legend, I was just like "oh wow! oh wow! oh wow!"  And then I was like a child modeling her barbie-like dress/bag in the mirror shamelessly smiling."


Welcome to you V, thanks for the chat!  Which is your favorite MM style?  "My favourite style is the Soulmate. I love shoulder bags and this style is so easy to carry. The shoulder straps are comfortable and most importantly for me, they do not slip. This means that I can be hands free without having to rely on the messenger strap, although that is a great option. As this bag has minimal hardware, it is extremely light. I love the contrast in leathers (both in texture and colour) of the Nappa and Nabuk Soulmate that I purchased. It's a big bag but elegant at the same time - hard to pull off!"

Please share with us what makes you swoon first in terms of leather.  Do you like color, texture or are there other factors you take into consideration?  "When I look at a leather, there are a few factors that I take into consideration. I live in a climate that has a fair number of rainy days, so ideally I am looking for a leather that can withstand a little water. I don't want to have to carry a separate umbrella for my bag! I'm also looking for a leather that will not mark or scratch easily. For me, there is a difference between a bag with leather that tells a story and a bag that simply looks grubby. I also love colour (although I like my neutrals too) and am drawn to jewel tones - deep emerald green and rich, dark amethyst purple make me swoon. Finally, I cannot resist a great metallic leather - my current lust list comprises Africa Lead and Bronze - but they simply must not flake!"

I have "heard" that peeking at your handbag during the work day reduces stress?  Would you agree?  Have you peeked at your bag or perhaps a swatch you may have been carrying with you?  "I definitely agree that leather has a calming effect! I love the smell of my bags and the feel of good leather. I'm currently completely in love with the soft, silky feel of the Nabuk leather. I find stroking it really soothing. Tucked away within my bag is a little bag of swatches of which Emerald pebbled is my current favourite."


Greetings M in Hawaii, thank you for the visit, do you have a favorite Massaccesi style?  "Zhoe!  My personal style is classic and simple, and that is exactly what Zhoe is.  I love both structured and slouchy handbags.  But, if I were forced to wear only one type, I would choose structured bags, hands down.  I love Zhoe’s simple shape.  She is chic and unfussy.  She is neither too big nor too small.  Her size is just right for me."


What is your preference for leather?  Are you first drawn to color, texture or is there another factor you take into consideration? "Texture!  I experience leather through my tactile sense first.  I enjoy the feel of leather like I enjoy the fragrance of plumeria flowers.  Both make me sigh, “Ahhhh…..!”  Pebbled leather is my favorite.  Its surface doesn’t have to be close to perfection as one would expect with smooth leather.  The imperfections and texture of pebbled leather are more appealing to me than the flatness of smooth leather.  Still, I believe there is room for smooth leather bags in my collection.  Eventually, I will get a Massaccesi handbag in the Natural Flat Calf leather…"


How much do you carry in your bags….as little as possible or everything but the kitchen sink?  "I wish I could carry as little as possible, but that isn’t practical for me.  (That only works for date nights!)  Besides my wallet, I like to always carry sunglasses, a small cosmetic pouch, a pen pouch, another pouch to hold a small notepad and receipts, a coin purse, travel size hand sanitizer, and a nylon reusable shopping bag, e.g. Envirosax.  If there is room left, I will add my Kindle or a book.  If I have to wait somewhere, then I can possibly get some reading done!"



Grazie mille to the ladies and gents that have allowed us into their worlds!  Oh yes my friends, husbands have been emailing with questions about
holiday gift buying!  Could it have been your hubby?  Stay tuned!

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Diva

The beloved bucket bag!  A time-honored style dating back to the early 1900s.  Massaccesi’s Diva with her tassels and double straps take this cherished classic to a unique level.  When worn, she has a very hip feel and the Merinos leathers provide luxurious softness.  I could not believe how light she was when first in my arms.

The body of the bag itself has gorgeous, subtle design details that flatter us when worn.  The lower leather border contours up on the sides and down in the middle of the front and back.  Beautiful leather side pieces gracefully run along the left and right, then tuck deliciously into the bottom border.  The interior has a back panel zipper pocket, two open slip pockets and key fob.  

Her drawstring closure weaves through luscious gathers of leather and metal grommets, followed by stunning Massaccesi leather tassels that give her a little edge. The tassels themselves, so thick and luxe, have lovely metal circlets at the top.  Diva is fitted with two straps, shoulder and messenger.  They are a brilliant addition to this style and each possess attractive buckle hardware.  The top is grand when either fully open or closed tight, as pictured below.

The Taupe Merinos that I am holding is beyond dreamy.  It is very soft and supple.  There is such a willowy lightness about the leather.  I had held the swatches, I knew what to expect, but then you hold a handbag made of this leather and it takes your breath away!  The Nabuk and Vacchetta leathers would also be divine on this style.

Whether you are seeking a classic look or bohemian feel, Diva has you covered!


Approximate measurements:

Width: cm. 28 (11”)
Height: cm. 25 (9.8”)
Depth: cm. 13 (5.1”)
Strap drop: cm. 27.5 (10.8”)
Messenger length: cm. 90 (35.5”)







 Many thanks to the smart and beautiful Piera Ciafrè, who modeled for this picture!
Photography credit:  Marco Massaccesi



Dreaming of your Diva?


Saturday, October 17, 2015

The Massaccesi Workshop Chronicles!


The Workshop has been full of color, texture and luxurious softness this week!  Many treasures are about to ship and some have already!  Shall we take a peek?!?  One of my favorite things is how our MM customers span across the globe yet seem very near when we communicate, and this week’s chronicle brings us four Massaccesi selections, from four fabulous ladies, living in four different countries!

Gorgeous Yellow happy Nappa!  The color is very saturated and pretty.  When I held it for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how soft and pliable it was to the touch.  This leather will age beautifully!  I think I expected it to be more firm because it looks so good on bags like Zhoe and Athena, but wow, it feels really supple!  I understand now why the Nappa handle straps are so comfortable on our shoulders because the leather truly bends with us.  Isn’t this color pure sunshine?!?  It is about to transform into a Yellow Soulmate Midi with matching yellow handles straps.  Such a great choice!


I love how the light gold hardware pulls out the warmth of the Yellow Nappa, while silver brings out coolness.  During the hardware decision process, I take into consideration the hardware color I prefer with the specific leather but also ask myself where will I be wearing this bag most often and the answer brings clarity.  Light gold can have a classic feel while silver may sometimes provide a little edge or casualness.  Alternatively, sometimes it is simply just because of the devoted love you have for one hardware color and that makes it an easy decision!


Our next breathtaking Nappa is Violet!  What a great pop of color this is yet matches with so many items in your wardrobe.  Black, brown, cream, white, heather grey (all greys!) blue, taupe….lovely!  And it will be such a great color in the winter too.  This Violet Nappa is about to become an exquisite Athena.  Can’t you just see this on our customer's arm while she is all bundled up in a coat and scarf?  Beautiful!





Intoxicating Brown Nabuk is so luxurious to the touch I get light headed thinking about it.  It is very soft and lightweight.  I adore that this one can be a chameleon too!  Depending on the light or how your hand swishes over her, the grade of hue can slightly change providing instant unique character.  Swoosh your hand back the other way and she changes again.  My Brown Nabuk is out with me a least once a week and she is still stunning!





A forever favorite with so many are the Africas.  Do you fancy a stunning metallic leather?  Check!
How about even texture?  Check!  Durability?  Check!  This leather like so many other MM leathers immediately throws me into “Multiple Massaccesi Madness” because the moment you hold one bag, 
you immediately want a second style in the same leather.  Deep sigh!




In addition to the incredible selections above, we have another treat to showcase.  A group of four women joined together to place a special order that required a four bag minimum due to the leather.  Never underestimate the power of purse loving ladies to come together and meet their quota!  Well done!  The beautiful Yellow Ocher Nabuk is divine!  Like it’s sister Nabuks, very luxe and soft.
It is droolworthy with the Signature MM Dark Grey Lining.








... as this week's chronicle draws to a close, sitting pretty on a bed of Yellow Ocher Nabuk is one of the new Massaccesi handbag feet.  I love them because they are a little bit larger offering even more protection for our bag bottoms!






Let's have a good chat!  What will your next MM handbag be?!?


Sunday, October 11, 2015

A “P.S.  I Love it!” Post

Just arrived on my doorstep is the gorgeous Massaccesi Selene Zip Midi, happily allowing me to follow up last week’s profile of Selene with a little postscript!

This is a really fabulous size!  It fits my 13 x 9 inch laptop perfectly.  I am thrilled there is also room for my charger cord, work files, calendar, wallet, pouch, etc. on either side of the laptop.  It holds each of these items safely tucked together so there is no shifting, which I know will keep my computer safer.  The Midi feels wonderful on my shoulder, in the crook of my arm and handheld.  Because it is more east west in design, if you have a lot of belongings and are worried about the bottom depth of the bag sticking out when worn on your shoulder, you could customize with adding length to the straps, but with the amount of belongings I had in her today, it felt great!

When cinched, this is still a nice medium size bag. The bottom depth allows the carriage of a Large MM Organizer with room to spare, which surprised me!  In this interior, there is a back panel zipper pocket and two leather trimmed open slip pockets as well as a large wide open front pocket just like original Selene.

The Vacchetta leathers have truly gorgeous natural variations in them that there is quite possibly the wonderful potential for each of us to have one-of-a-kind bags even if we choose the same style and leather color.  All of the swatches I have seen are beautiful and unique.  They are rich in color, saturated and earthy.  The light gold hardware is breathtaking with this Rust Brown.  I liked the vertical front zipper pockets when I first saw the pictures. They provide a little edge yet keep the classic lines.  Now that I have seen this bag in person, gasp!  I have mad love for them!

So on with some p.s. pictures for you, my friends!  As a reminder, the Midi size dimensions are in my previous post.

Rust Brown Vacchetta Selene Zip Midi and Dark Teal Pebbled original Selene size comparison

Side view comparison

Side view while cinched comparison

Cinched closed

Top view cinched while closed

Interior view while cinched

Interior view uncinched with large MM organizer

Interior view uncinched with laptop, work files, calendar, pouch, cell, etc.

In crook of arm

On shoulder

Handheld


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