I am a full on bag lady. I love bags of all shapes, sizes, colours and prices. I will splurge on a great bag over a pair of shoes any day, particularly if it’s one I know I will wear for years. So imagine my joy at spending an afternoon at discussing my favourite topic: designer handbags.
Get ready to check out these 8 it’s-time-to-splurge handbags and the outfits that best suit them. I might have just lived my life-long dream of being a fashion model in the process of showing them off.
8 DESIGNER HANDBAGS WE LOVE
Look #1:
Evening wear with edge, literally. When you’re dressing up for a formal evening out, throw in something a little unexpected.
Kotur studded faux python clutch ($560) glams up this Dolce & Gabbana dress ($1775) and coat ($3095)
Look #2:
2014 is going to be white hot for accessories. Adding a white bag to any dark outfit will make it look instantly crisp and fresh.
Michael Kors colour block clutch ($695) brightens up a Stella McCartney blue dress with black lace trim ($1365) and Alexander Wang white pumps ($515)
Look #3:
This vegan bag from Stella McCartney (my favourite of the day) is made of a faux suede that is as durable as it is beautiful. Look for totes in soft fabrics and comfortable straps.
Stella McCartney grey vegan tote ($1295) looks comfortable with a Brunello Cucinelli jacket ($2995), Rag and Bone denim ($290) and Rag and Bone short boots ($495)
Look #4:
Maximize the use of your clutch by choosing a vibrant colour with rich gold hardware. You’ll go effortlessly from coffee and a museum in the afternoon to evening cocktails and dancing.
Valentino blue studded clutch ($1295) stands out with a Brunello Cucinelli sweater ($1290) and grey long sleeved shirt ($560), Marc Jacobs denim ($210) and Rag and Bone short boots ($495)
Look #5:
The easiest bag to wear is the cross body bag! Sling it over your shoulder when your hands are full or tuck the strap inside (as shown) for a completely different look.
Stella McCartney pink vegan cross body bag ($925) looks cute with a Brunello Cucinelli army jacket ($2695), Valentino pink camo T ($660), Marc Jacobs denim ($210) and Jimmy Choo disco pumps ($695)
Look #6:
The little black dress of handbags: the black leather tote. Goes everywhere with anything but beware that the bigger the tote, the more stuff you’ll want to tote along. Save your back and leave the novel, notepad and nail polish for your briefcase.
Marc by Marc Jacobs black leather tote ($578) works with this Brunello Cucinelli sweatshirt ($745), tuxedo maxi skirt ($1140) and Rag and Bone short boots ($495)
Look #7:
Go wild with colour this year! Pick out a great shade, like purple, that will go with all your wardrobe basics – grey, black, brown and even green! Oh and did I mention that cross body bags are FAB?
Balenciaga cross body purple bag ($1415) spices up an Etro coat ($2795) and Roberto Cavalli dress ($1495)
Look #8: Don’t be afraid to clutch it during the daylight hours. This one is perfect for going to a matinee. It holds all the essentials and there’s no more putting your bag on the sticky floor. Kornelia Guest clutch ($170) blends right in with this Tory Burch top ($360) and Marc Jacobs denim ($210)
Remember: Fashion is your interpretation of a trend. Although many of these looks are high-end, you don’t have to spend your mortgage payment on the latest styles. Instead, find the trend you like and seek out that style in your price range. Bags are everywhere! Most of all, shop and have fun while you’re at it. It feels good to laugh at yourself once in awhile. 
Special Thanks to Holt Renfrew Calgary and my stylist, Adrian. All items shown can be purchased at Holt Renfrew.
