The Handbag Search

For several weeks I have been searching for a light neutral handbag for summer such as the style I carried in this outfit photo from Sunday.

I was coming to the conclusion that I might have to pay up to $150 to find a style I liked when my sister told me to check out the bags at Tuesday Morning. (Really?)

I found the one above by Nine West and another faux alligator skin shown below for about $20 EACH at Tuesday Morning. Thanks, Sis!

I also found a lovely woven texture and cream faux leather combination one earlier in the week for about $35 at Stein Mart.
 

The lighter colors and more delicate fabrications of summer bags mean they might not last for more than one season of use. When I know the item I am purchasing will not be a long-term addition to my wardrobe. I cannot justify spending a lot of money on it.

These clutch bags were purchased last year at T.J.Maxx. If I am going out to dinner or brunch, I don't carry a larger daytime bag. These clutches get less use, so they last for much longer than one season. Timeless styles that will still work for me in the future are always good choices in clutches.

I store handbags on shelves in a rarely used guest room closet stuffed with tissue and dust covers if the bags come with them. 

This is another Nine West bag I purchased last year. Each time I carry this bag, I use neutral shoe polish to clean and protect it. I like to wear this style of bag with platform sandals and Capri pants. That's an outfit I often wear in the heat of summer instead of shorts (never!). This is a youthful style that balances well with that look. It also can be carried in the crook of the arm or on the shoulder.

Your handbag can pull together your look and add that extra touch of elegance to serve a purpose. A handbag can also make you look silly or sloppy. 

Consider scale and balance when shopping for a bag. For example, if you are six feet tall and weigh a few pounds more than you would like, a small top handle bag will not be a good balance for your silhouette. Instead, look for a larger bag that you carry on your arm or shoulder if you prefer that type.

If money were no object, I might purchase this bag. (I don't think everything in my wardrobe added together would equal the price of this bag.) This is the Cognac RL Gold Spectator 40 Calfskin Tote by Ralph Lauren. It is $5,030!

You can see how the style, shape, and color influenced my choice of bags in the first three images. I often look at the high-end designer styles that appeal to me, and then I go searching for the version that matches my budget.

I hope that these tips help you to find the right summer bags for you. 

Have a wonderful week!