it’s time for round two of the back to basics column! (you can see the first installment here). this time, i thought i’d talk a little bit about my favorite bags. up until a couple of years ago, i always bought inexpensive bags from places like target or old navy. nothing wrong with that, and i still do on occasion, but i started realizing that they don’t hold up very well over time, pieces break, and the quality is just all around not there. just like i’m trying to do with my wardrobe, i’ve started to look towards bags that are in it for the long-haul – that are well-made, relatively neutral so i can wear them with everything, and that are classic vs. trendy. over time, i’ve come to the conclusion that at any given time, i like having three types of bags – (1) an everyday bag that goes with me to and from work, can fit a laptop, and can double as my carry-on; (2) a clutch for going out when i usually just want my ID, debit card, and phone instead of a bulky purse; and (3) a crossbody bag that’s more casual that i can switch to on the weekends or when traveling. it’s taken some time (and $$) to find and purchase well-made bags in all three categories, so in case any ladies out there are still on the hunt, or are ready to upgrade, here are my recommendations…
01 / the everyday
longchamp le pliage in chocolate, prices vary
you’ve likely seen these bags around, as they are very popular. longchamp is a parisian company, and you can order their bags through their website or through other retailers, like bloomingdale’s or nordstrom. kevin bought me my first longchamp – a large shoulder tote in red with a taupe stripe – for our first anniversary, and it’s the gift that keeps on giving, because i use this bag all the time. if you order directly from longchamp, you can personalize your bag, from the panel colors, to the strap length, and even monogramming. it’s pricey, but a special added touch, especially for a bag you’ll use for a long time. last summer, i bought a second one – the medium size – in chocolate, and i love it, too! it’s a more manageable size for when i’m not carrying around very much.
02 / the clutch
gap two-tone leather clutch (previous season) | similar here and here
if you haven’t caught on my now, i’m a lover of all things neutral. i like to keep things simple and muted because it usually means more things match each other which equals more outfit options. accessories, including small clutches like this one, are sort of the exception to my rule and where i usually like to have pops of color. this particular one i found at gap a few seasons ago, but the colorblock trend is still going strong and i’m sure a similar one would not be tough to find.
03 / the crossbody
madewell mini transport crossbody, $148
i had the same brown leather crossbody bag since high school until about a month ago, when i finally bit the $148 bullet and upgraded to this madewell one. i’m so glad i did, and this has become my go-to weekend bag for when i’m just carrying around a few things and want something more casual. the leather is gorgeous, the strap is adjustable, and the inside is striped and has pockets – what more could a girl want?
alright, ladies…i’d love to know, what are some of your favorite bags?
