In the Bag: More Hot Handbags for Summer
One of the fun little perks of being a woman (mysteriously left out of the great Rogers and Hammerstein classic, “I Enjoy being a Girl”) is the handbag. The bag can be practical, cute, chic, elegant and endlessly useful. They don’t call it arm candy for nothing. So, what’s up with this no-calorie sweet treat for summer? Let’s talk about totes you can take to the beach and the fresh city bag, the day clutch.
Take me with you:
Why is it that a little trip to the sand and sea requires so much stuff? Towel, book, iPod, hair clip, water and if you forget the sunscreen, boy will you be sorry. So, how to pack it without looking like you need one of those little rolling bags people use to run over your foot in the airport? The tote.
I really love a metallic for the beach — there is something so flashy/trashy about sliver, gold or bronze against the sand. Look for a canvas or plastic bag with metallic highlights or even an embossed leather to help withstand the wear and tear of a beach trip. Leave the delicate calfskin or scarf silk at home unless you don’t mind the weathered look. I love the St. Tropez glitz of the Carlos Falchi Snake Enbossed ‘Jill’ tote ($140) found on the ever popular Bluefly.com.
May I also suggest a practical canvas tote, here in a strong pop of summer color, by Tory Burch.
Tory Burch ‘Tory’ Canvas Tote: $235
In the Clutch:
Starting up last fall, the day clutch is still a clear trend this spring/summer season. As always with warm weather, straw makes an appearance and a summery straw clutch with a ocean theme or bright color detail makes even your work suit feel summery and fresh.
For a more seasonless look, I am still distracted by the “tough” leather clutch for day. The contrast of a slightly rough bag with a floaty summer dress or on trend flowing pant is about as good as it gets. And, done in forever chic black or a strong burst of color, the clutch can stay with you well into fall. Take a look at this chain detail cheap and chic bag from Urbanoutfitters.com….
Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch: $42
….or the luxe to a fault poppy colored Lanvin on sale at Barneys.com.
Lavin Pop Chevre Clutch: $649 (was: $1,075)
These day clutches can really give you something to hold on to.
Find at Smarter.com: Shop for more clutch handbags and tote bags.
Discounts on Tory Burch totes and Carlos Falchi totes.
