The Allure of the White Handbag

There’s just something inherently classy about a white handbag. Maybe it’s the impracticality of the accessory, the fact that one false move with a stain-making substance–ink, wine, dirty fingers–will cause its utter destruction. Maybe it’s that a white bag make us feel like keepers of treasures because they’re so delicate and capable of meeting demise without warning.

Whatever the reason and despite the white knuckle tension of parenting such an item, my love for the white bag can’t be swayed. This piece de resistance brightens up any ensemble, and even when its the trend of the moment (like right now), it’s still unexpected and fresh. Plus, they’re classic, so if you’ve got a good leather cleaner (make sure you Scotchgard your purse before tragedy befalls you), a white purse is a good fashion investment.

Consider the possibilities:

• Pair a white clutch with your little black dress. The contrast is very fashion-forward and a lot more interesting than that black “special occasions” purse you’ve been using since prom.
• Go monochromatic and carry your white bag on the shoulder of your white sun dress…you’ll be a vision of summer splendor. Really.
• Why not just go for it and carry a white bag around everywhere you go–with jeans, cutoffs, your gym clothes, whatever. People will think,”Who does that girl think she is always carrying that white purse?” And you’ll just sashay by with the air of a woman who owns a white bag. Wink.

Credits:
Top Right:Cammie Hill Patent Small Envelope Clutch, around $163

Middle Left: Etienne Mercer II Satchel, $388 Bottom

Right: OGIO Road Trip White Punk Rock, $29