Top Five Bling Inspired Accessories for iPad

There are many iPad accessories out on the market now, with most costing anywhere from $10 all the way to $100. However, there are a few that go into a much higher price range. If you’ve got some cash to burn, these might be worth considering . Otherwise, these are bound to be depressing.

Colorware Grip For iPad ($250)

Colorware’s Grip for iPad essentially turns the device into a mini-briefcase. Made from aircraft grade Aluminum and custom made so it fits securely around the iPad , it makes lugging around the device much easier – and secure – than on its own. It also comes in a multitude of colors, including blue, green and orange.

Still, the price is a little hard to swallow: $250 for what is basically a snap-on case with a handle? We could name several other durable carrying cases that keep the iPad safe for around $50 or less. However, in Colorware’s defense, the materials are excellent, and the coloring design is pretty cool. And there’s no way that the iPad will come flying out, unlike cheaper cases.

Slingbox Solo ($169) and Pro-HD ($249)

Let’s say you’re a monthly cable subscriber looking for a way to watching favorite shows, sporting events and programs, but without the need for a television. Sling Media has a solution with the Slingbox. Using the compatible SlingPlayer iPad app, subscribers can watch whatever’s on their TV using the Slingbox technology, essentially mirroring the TV image onto the iPad screen. This is perfect for folks who roam around the house or sit on the patio deck during a nice summer day.

Technology like this doesn’t come cheap, though. The Slingbox players are expensive, ranging from $169 to $249, depending on the model and features. And that isn’t including the price of the SlingPlayer app (App Store link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/slingplayer-mobile-for-ipad/id405564910?mt=8), which goes for $29.99. It’s a large price to pay for streaming technology – especially considering cheaper options like Time Warner Cable and Netflix.

Hello Kitty Swarovski iPad Case ($132-$601)

Hello Kitty is huge in Japanese and Asian markets right now, and little girls from all over the world are infatuated by her cuteness. We would easily recommend Swarovski’s custom Hello Kitty iPad cases for them – if they didn’t go for such a top-shelf price, that is.

Swarovski has lined both of these cases with sparkling crystals, with plenty of Hello Kitty style. Two models are available – the fully loaded diamond case ($601) and the far less expensive, but equally stylish, Black Crystalized Swarovski iPad Case ($132). For those who want the very best (or own their own custom Hello Kitty game systems and jewelry cases), this is a must. Everyone else should stick with the more affordable iPad skins…even though they don’t sparkle.

Prada Nylon iPad Case ($420)

Young and old businesswomen alike love everything Prada, so for them, we humbly suggest the deluxe Nylon iPad case, which is available in two colors (rosso red or peonia pink) and comes with ultra-synthetic padding and authentic Prada logo. It’s easy to insert and remove the iPad with a zip-around closure, and the felt interior pocket keeps it scratch-free.

Despite the quality, the asking price may be a little too steep for some budgets. The Prada case goes for $420, almost as much as the iPad itself. For those who like to be fashionable or can’t resist Prada, you’ll probably buy it anyway. Everyone else may want to shop around.

Hermes Station and Swift accessories ($820-$1,400)

And we thought the pricing on the Prada cases was ridiculous. The French design house Hermes is offering a pair of highly priced iPad accessories, the ultimate for those who have plenty of money to spend. The Hermes Swift is a bright orange sleeve that completely covers the iPad, keeping it safe from scratches or dents, while the Hermes Station is a deluxe carrying case that converts into a stand. Both are made of fine calf-skin leather, and available in ten different colors, including the pictured orange.

As for the prices, well…they actually exceed any of the iPad models, even the iPad 2. The Hermes Swift goes for around 580 euros ($820), while the Hermes Station is the most expensive of all, clocking in at over 990 euros ($1,400). That’s half a paycheck right there, maybe even more. These are truly the cream of the crop, but for that price, we’re kind of expecting a little more. Like an iPad that programs itself. Or a French maid to bring our device to us. Ooh la la?