When it comes to selecting a new everyday or statement handbag, the choice is entirely individual.
While at a minimum we’re hoping to find something that fits all the bare necessities inside, there is the cut, colour and material to think of too.
With summer fast approaching, I’m looking for a new handbag to take to work with my new brightly coloured outfits that will complement but not detract from them – as every accessory should aim to do.
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And with Black Friday on the horizon, I’m crafting my wishlist early so I can act fast on the morning of November 24.
Want to know the seven pieces I’m coveting? These are the go-tos:
1. Longchamp Le Pliage Casaque Top Handle Bag, $430 on The Iconic
Now The Iconic’s Black Friday sale is just around the corner – and will start earlier than most – so this won’t have to sit on Santa’s list for very long.
Longchamp can do absolutely no wrong in my eyes – I already own the Le Pliage Original Shoulder Tote Bag in a Navy shade.
But this new love heart printed shoulder bag is really tugging at my… well, heart strings.
It certainly won’t fit my workout gear inside en route to work but that’s what a canvas tote on the other shoulder is for, right?
The bag comes in two shades but the Sky Blue & Lawn is my favourite.
2. Ecco Sail Bag Compact in Berry Sorbet, $399.95
Anyone who knows me will attest to the fact that I’m very rarely wearing any black – clothing or otherwise.
With colour, more is more in my book.
So when I spied this berry sorbet number and noted the casual, fairy-like design features – it draws together like a pot of gold – I became instantly obsessed.
It does come in three shades including a ravishing lavender but the berry is a standout.
3. Vestirsi Sienna Taupe Suede Hobo, $259
Handmade in Italy from the softest leather imaginable, Vestirsi is one of my favourites when it comes to purchasing a new handbag.
This hobo-chic version in taupe is large enough to fit my Kindle inside as well as a medium-sized water bottle, so you don’t have to leave any of your essentials at home.
It blends into the background, allowing your outfit to do all the talking and has an internal wallet for your cards and keys.
4. Kate Spade Perfect Match Matchbox Resin Small Frame Clutch, $899
Kate Spade’s creativity always surprises me but nothing says evening statement like this resin clutch.
I can imagine slinking into a silky gown and carrying this into a speakeasy on a Thursday evening. You know, if I happened to be in a movie or something.
While it’s not necessarily everyday-life appropriate, it’s nice to have a bag in your kit for special occasions – such as Christmas – and this would be it.
5. Guess Velina Hobo, $179 at The Iconic
I’m no stranger to Guess and have been crushing hard on their handbags for the past few years.
Nobody does glamour like the brand which has been producing strong collections even during the COVID years.
This Velina Hobo is dressed up to the nines and ready to go to the office Christmas party, martini in tow.
She’s the life of the party and that’s exactly the kind of energy I want to bring into December.
6. Laura Jones Seagrass Mini Shopper Bag, $69.99
When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me by the sea for the next three (or so) months.
With this in mind, there is no better time to purchase a rattan-like handbag and sail away into your next holiday.
This one makes up for its small size by being an epic statement piece ready to be paired with a kaftan and leather sandals.
7. Marc Jacobs The Leather Mini Tote Bag, $630 from The Iconic
Last, but certainly not least, is the adorable and frankly too-small-to-be-anything-but-a-phone-holder tote bag from Marc Jacobs.
It’s pricey, yes, but it’s from the Marc Jacobs family so you know the quality is going to stack up.
Lime green is truly making a comeback this season and what better way to incorporate it than with your right hand… man (bag).