On my continued quest to achieve the euphoric state of “Mom Sexy,” I’ve now moved on to upgrading my “accessories.” Namely, my shoes and handbag.
I used to be a shoe hound, so that’s just a matter of getting my shop on and buying a few new pairs. But a purse? That’s a completely different story.
Even back when I worked and had a reason to look cute and the extra cash to spend on luxuries like a trendy handbag, I never was the type to have multiple bags, switching them out depending on the season or my outfit. To me, it wasn’t something I cared to spend the time nor money on. I had just 1 plain, black, all-purpose leather purse that I used year-round. Pitiful, I know; right, Jill?
But now having carried a diaper bag pretty much for the last 5 years, I really need to think about getting back to carrying a purse. Maddie is 2, and we’re starting to get to a point where it is feasible to leave the house with the kids for short errands and not bring loads of back-up mommy supplies.
Plus, I’m going to Blissdom.
If you don’t think being in a room full of other women is enough of a reason to up your fashion game, trying being in a room full of southern women, and then we’ll talk.
This Yankee broad needs to represent.
So this is where you come in; I need help choosing the right handbag! All the terminology for the style of bag is confusing to me – hobo bag? satchel? shopper bag? carryall? tote? What’s the difference?
And then there’s color. I see so many vibrant, colorful options, but which do I choose?
I would love to hear your suggestions for handbags! What style do you prefer? Where do you shop for one? What color would you suggest? How sad is it that I have never owned a proper purse?!
Liz, I love purses, but my real requirement is they must be unique. I am not into picking up a bag that everyone else has. Not my thing. So, trendy is not for me.
I have small, medium and large purses. It has to catch my eye and hold it. Right now I have a tan leather one that is hobo style. I like it for right now, but I can “feel” the relationship will end sooner than later.
well, I’m a big bag person. finally gave in to that. but I go through phases as far as style. I like something I can throw over my shoulder and still take on a plane with snacks and a book. I was obsessed with structured, colorful bags for a while. before that it was hobo bags.
the longest streak with a bag is the latest (since this past spring): a fake leather, brown sack-type bag with two straps. it’s the perfect size and goes with everything. and it keeps the rain out (live in Portland). it’s from H&M so not too pricey at all. love that store.
Hmm. I’m totally cheap when it comes to bags. Plus? As much as I’d like to be sexy & stylish? Yeah, not so much. I so need Clinton & Stacy. *sigh*
But, I do know cute bags when I see them….even if I’m too cheap/lazy to purchase/use them.
Target has cute stuff & so does Kohls. Kohls has good sales on their bags, too. I got a really nice one for about $30 that was marked down from $60 or $70.
Also, think about whether you want compartments or just a big hole for your stuff. I need compartments. I want my keys, cell phone, & a few other misc. items within easy reach. So I’m a satchel kind of gal. I love hobos, but I can’t handle the single cavernous pit into which all my belongings go. Whatever I need to find? Conspires with the rest of my purse contents to be buried at the bottom.
Check strap length & make sure it won’t bug you. Mine must be long enough that I can put it on my shoulder with one hand. And if I get shorter straps? It drives me nuts & I won’t use the purse.
So, um, yeah. There’s the $.02 (or maybe more like $.05) from the cheap/lazy purchaser of bags….LoL
I have tons of purses, but hate shopping for them. I love Coach and frequent the nearby outlet for last season’s handbags. I also have found some great roomy stylish purses at Old Navy and Target. Good luck with your search.