Arm Candy - Autumnal Must Have Handbags
Accessories can make or break an outfit and a carefully considered bag will be the cherry on the sartorial cake so it should never just be an afterthought. With this in mind, I’m going to take away the guesswork for you and showcase this season’s covetable trend styles followed by key considerations for buying a Forever Bag.
The New Must Have Luxury Bags
Bold And The Beautiful
Le Pliage Bag, Longchamp; Scarf and Hat, both Powder
Let’s begin with a bang. The croc-embossed leather handbag from Longchamp is definitely a must. With its juicy orange hue, the Le Pliage shape gets a boost for autumn and just because the bag is bold, doesn’t mean you have to forgo other accents; accessorise your accessory with a contrasting vibrant scarf and hat to elevate your knitwear and coats.
The Feathered Friend
Owl Bag, Kate Spade; Lace Collar Cardigan, YAS; Jeans, Reiss
Inject cheer into your autumn style with Kate Spade’s playful owl crossbody bag because fashion can be fun and functional. The ideal size for carrying your essentials, this whimsical companion will become the talking point of your outfit. Pair with this season’s pretty knits, jeans and loafers for a laid-back weekend outfit.
The Boho Bucket
Bucket bag, Coach; Face mask, Powder; Necklace, Mint Velvet; Dress (behind), Reiss
In pebbled leather, this bucket-shaped beauty is the ideal accent to your wardrobe. With two contrasting straps it’s versatile enough to wear crossbody, as a grab-handle bag or on the shoulder. Transition your summer dresses into autumn by styling this boho bucket bag with a chunky knit and boots then finish with this wear-anywhere bag.
5 Things To Consider When Choosing A Forever Bag
When choosing a Forever Bag, it is important to invest in something you really love and will want to use again and again. Here are 5 top tips to help make that all-important purchase.
1. Size Matters
Monogram Tote Bag, Coach; Scarf and Gloves, Powder
Consider what will suit your lifestyle for maximum versatility and minimum cost per wear. If you travel light, a crossbody bag will be your perfect partner, while a ‘carry everything’ type would need a stylish tote or a luxury backpack for hands-free living.
2. Go Timeless (with a twist)
Quilted bag, Kate Spade; Sweater, Reiss
The black quilted bag gives a Chanel-esque vibe that will hold its own year after year and effortlessly take you from day to night. The floral-shaped quilting gives this handbag a unique edge, adding a contemporary twist to this fashion favourite.
3. Classic Neutrals
Leather bags, both Longchamp
Naturally black is a good colour choice for an investment piece but Neutral handbags are your wardrobe workhorses - offering an uncomplicated finish to any outfit. Shades of brown give a more casual feel, creams and greys look more refined. Neutral bags are the ideal choice if your wardrobe is full of colour and pattern.
4. Colour Code
Chain Strap Bag, Coach; Teddy Coat, Ted Baker
A Forever Bag doesn’t have to be plain and neutral to get the most use with your wardrobe. A coloured bag could be your signature look, particularly if your clothes tend to be on the subdued side; choose from muted shades of red, green, pink and blue.
5. Material Decision
It goes without saying that soft leather will age well, giving character to a bag over time but it’s not your only option. Saffiano leather has a hard-wearing, grained finish ideal for sleek, structured bags, while coated fabric has a similar look as seen on Michael Kors’ backpack (above).
Style Insider…
With new season styles dropping regularly in-store right now, watch this space for the timeless Michael Kors Hamilton Legacy satchel and the fashion forward Coach Shearling shoulder bag.