In September 2009, a well-known Baltimore interior designer turned her hand to creating fashion accessories. The Ellen Allen Annapolis line was officially launched in Spring 2010 and the rest, as they say, is history!
In just a little over a year, Ellen Allen’s elegant designs were featured on NBC’s TODAY and in People Style Watch, plus an Ellen Allen bag was spotted inside the closet of none other than Dancing with the Stars’ über-chic Brooke Burke’s in an US Weekly spot!
The overwhelming success of the line is due not simply to the striking designs, however. Any handbag can be pretty. Ellen Allen designs truly answer to a working mother’s need for function and flexibility in accessories. All totes and handbags are constructed of durable, easily cleaned cotton fabric with a “green” coating — something every busy woman appreciates! And, vibrant colors, classic stripes, and patterns inspired by spectacular Annapolis architecture make these bags simply irresistible. In fact, the entire Ellen Allen line features patterns that are twists on classic Annapolis architecture. The patterns and color combinations give a unique, American feel to these pieces that feels just feels right for spring.
My top picks:
First, the bag that started it all, the Eastport tote epitomizes graceful living at its best. Water-resistant and spacious, the Eastport bag is the perfect tote to hold all of your supplies for a day of sailing, sunning, or just sightseeing. Retail $250
Next, my personal favorite is the Whitehall handbag, which was named after a quiet and picturesque creek in Annapolis. This bag is perfect for everyday and a great foil for the fresh spring colors so popular this year. The Whitehall has two equally divided compartments that help you stay effortlessly organized wherever daily life takes you. Retail $225
Another bag on my wish list is the Oxford clutch. Named after the charming waterfront town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this bag is just as functional as it’s style is classic. Surprisingly roomy, the Oxford clutch will take you from work to a night out– easily and stylishly! Retail $125
In addition to lust-worthy handbags and totes, Ellen Allen has also expanded the accessory line to include stunning scarves which look lovely tied to handbag handles for every day, adorning summer ponytails on the weekend, or paired with office wear for a splash of color.
Although the line is relatively new, Ellen Allen’s designs are already available at fine boutiques nationwide.
Want to win your own Whitehall bag? Enter today! The Ellen Allen Annapolis Whitehall Handbag Giveaway is open to Susan Said What?! readers who are 18+ and is available in the USA only. The odds of winning are dependent upon the number of entries received. Contest ends at midnight on May 30 and the winner will be notified by email on May 31.
UPDATE: This Ellen Allen Annapolis Handbag giveaway has now ended. But, you can still enter more fashion, beauty and style giveaways. And, visit Women’s Fashion for more fashion trends, designer interviews and style inspiration.
PRODUCT REVIEW DETAILS: If you have a style product line and want an honest evaluation, or if you would like to create a giveaway, please contact us.
PHOTOS: Used with permission by Ellen Allen Annapolis.
DISCLAIMER: I received a product sample of the Whitehall handbag for evaluation, in order to write this review. No compensation was received in exchange for this post. The opinions stated are my own and were not influenced in any way by Ellen Allen Annapolis.
Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest products for parties, weddings, and events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait! Susan Said…WHAT?! was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.com.