Avelle is the new Bag Borrow or Steal, and they’re as recessionista friendly as ever. They offer the opportunity to rent more than 4,000 styles of luxury accessories from more than 150 authentic designers.
As I interviewed the VP of Creative & Online Experience, I found that they are making smart strides for their clients that appreciate the fine items that they rent and own.
StyleMint: What caused the name change?
Avelle: We changed our name to Avelle because we simply outgrew the name Bag Borrow or Steal. We are no longer just about handbags and over the past few years, we’ve expanded into new product categories such as jewelry, sunglasses and watches. Our focus on expansion is a direct result of the overwhelmingly positive response we’ve received to the rented luxury concept, and our customers asking for more accessory categories.
SM: So you’d outgrown your old name. What does the new name mean?
Avelle: We needed a name that reflected our expansion and also our passion for the very best in designer accessories. The name Avelle is inspired by European luxury, craftsmanship and quality.
What are your top five rented bags?
(StyleMint received a list {in no particular order}. At StyleMint, we’ve put the prices and our theories as to why these bags might be at the top of the list.)
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Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Galliera PM
Retail Value: $1270 Why? This is a classic tote in the finest LV tradition, with easy access to the contents inside. The gold plaque adds extra umph to this summer bag. |
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Limited Edition Louis Vuitton Roses Speedy Retail Value: $1310 Rental Value: $94/wk or $275/mth Why? Louis Vuitton has been on a long winning streak with their it bags. Women go to these bags as a surefire way to signify their feminine fashionista philosophies. |
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MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Astor’ Lg Chain Satchel
Retail Value: $378 Why? Our theory here at StyleMint — it’s yellow, and that’s a damn happy color. It’s sunshine on your arm. And the shade of marigold makes it a continual go-to option in the fall. |
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MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Astor’ N/S Tote
Retail Value: $348 Why? This is a gorgeous tote bag that can effortlessly give an edge to your office wardrobe. It also looks fantastic on the go at any other time. |
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Gucci ‘Hysteria’ Handbag
Retail Value: $1790 Why? The patent leather is a sleek look. While the billowing flexibility allows for a great mass of items to fit inside. Gentle folds on the center are framed by stately twin golden discs. |
SM: What are the top five designers in demand (in order)?
SM: How has the economy affected your business?
This post is tagged Avelle, Bag Borrow or Steal
June 13th, 2009 at 7:01 am
[...] here: Interview with Avelle…the New Bag Borrow or Steal Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: borrow-or-steal, clients, creative, fine, from-more, [...]
June 30th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
Cool post, just subscribed.
August 4th, 2010 at 9:58 am
Avelle: We’ve created a new equity program that allows our members to apply a portion of their rental fees towards the purchase of that item, up to 90% of the price! The amount of equity members earn is based on the product they rent. For basic items, equity equals 70% of rental fees and for premium “it” products, it equals 50% of fees.