Style Stop
By Linda Peavy
Summer is coming! The season for events, travel and the beach is near. As we mature, we constantly purge excess from our life to move a little lighter. Our wardrobe is no exception, including handbags. When considering what to keep and what to toss, hang onto two bag essentials that will easily carry you through the summer. What are they? You will need a versatile oversized tote and an elegant evening bag.
The Terrific Tote
Every woman over 50 needs a no-fuss multifunctional bag. This tote bag will have dozens of uses for day or weekend activities. Consider these options:
- It holds a great book when reading at the beach or park.
- A tote is a carry-on must for travel to keep neck pillows, snacks, and a tablet.
- Totes are great for outdoor events to keep bug spray, shoes, toiletries and more.
- Need some retail therapy? A tote holds small bags from a quick shopping excursion.
- Want to work outdoors? Toss your laptop in your tote.
What fabrics to consider?
Leather is excellent for its durability, looks and style. Vegan materials are also popular and will offer more choices in color. The tote should be large enough to throw in a laptop, so consider widths of at least 15 in inches. A bag with a footed bottom adds extra protection and durability.
If you purchase a cloth bag, be sure there are reinforcements, such as the footed bottom and reinforced handles. Many cloth bags also come with plastic overlays or water-proof exteriors.
The Elegant Evening Bag
There are occasions when a regular day bag just won’t do. Summertime is special event and wedding season. When going out on special occasions, an elegant evening bag is a must, and it is not just for the nighttime galas. This bag should be small enough to handle with one hand while large enough for a cell phone and a few cosmetics.
While a black bag is the most versatile color, especially if you only have one evening purse, consider colors if you need more options in your wardrobe. Sequins, pearls and rhinestones create beautiful adornments that take these bags from plain to extraordinary.
If dancing is a part of your plans, consider a bag with an optional shoulder or hand strap that can fold neatly into the interior. You will be ready to salsa the night away with your hands free.
Where to Shop
Whether you are an online shopper or prefer browsing selections in person, numerous stores offer handbags in multiple hues and fabrics. You can find choices to fit any budget.
For moderately priced options, look no further than thehandbagstore.com, ASOS.com, Marshalls, Norstrom Rack, or Ubuntu. Want high-end options? Try Bloomingdales, Dillards, Lynn Tallerico, Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, or Saks Fifth Avenue.
Need high quality but not a high price? Try Rebag.com or The realreal.com for consignment designer handbag names such as Christian Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes.
If you want to shop specialty brick-and-mortar stores locally, visit Brighton, Coach, Fount, Kate Spade, Lily Pulitzer, Michael Kors, and Our Favorite Things Boutique & Event Center.
Until Later… Show Your Style!
Linda Peavy
IG: @culturedcurves1
