Everyone knows that the right handbag can serve as the crowning glory to any outfit, whether you’re jet-setting, heading out for a day of shopping, or simply going to spend yet another day at the office. A carefully chosen designer handbag can either complement a pared down look or make the ultimate statement – which is exactly why it pays to have a large collection, and one to suit every scenario.
Although it’s still a few weeks until Spring 2019 officially kicks off, it’s never too early to start planning for the new season ahead, and from New York to London, Paris to Milan, the Spring 2019 runways were awash with a range of beautiful designer handbags we can’t wait to get our hands on. Colour is in, over-sized totes are set to be the shape du jour, and best of all, there’s a luxurious piece of arm candy to suit everyone.
To help you make a sound designer investment for the season ahead, we’ve rounded up the key trends to look for and the points to consider when browsing those boutiques. Happy shopping!
TRENDS
Satchels
A true classic that rarely falls out of favour, the satchel bag is both attractive and practical in equal measures, with a studious, university feel to it that works perfectly with a preppier look. To take the trend to the next level, steer clear of predictable blacks, browns and beiges and inject a pop of colour to your outfit with a retro purple or neon yellow. Pair with a simple monochrome outfit for the ultimate statement; it’s an impactful look that will leave a lasting impression.
Python
Everyone should have a printed handbag in their wardrobe, and in recent months, we’ve seen leopard print make way for the edgier snake skin look. Of course, we don’t advise going for real python handbags, and these days, you can get stunning vegan designer bags with faux prints, so it’s definitely worth checking these out. An easy and effective way of turning a plain outfit into the main attraction, this pattern is one that looks expensive and luxurious. For the ideal spring evening attire, team a python clutch bag with a little white dress and a pair of coral coloured heels – or, for a more a laid back style, team with an oversized t-shirt, a pair of skinny jeans, and a simple pair of pumps.
Oversized Totes
The shape to be seen with for Spring 2019, nothing blends practicality and style quite like the oversized tote. Providing plenty of room and enough compartments to cart around all your everyday essentials – from your make-up bag to your purse, car keys and phone; everything can neatly and conveniently be placed inside a large tote. Nevertheless, convenience can often get in the way of fashion and thus the result is an ugly looking bag. With the oversized tote, however, this is definitely not an issue, as it offers glamour and high fashion all wrapped up in one. Team with a pair of oversized designer sunglasses this spring for full effect.
Studs
And finally, if you consider yourself to be a bit of a rock chick then a studded bag is definitely the choice for you. Opt for a black bag with gold studs if you truly want to emulate this fantastic trend to perfection. Ideal for anyone who considers their signature look to be a little bit edgy, team with an oversized white shirt dress, black grungy biker boots, a slick of letterbox red lipstick, and your hair in a high bun for maximum glamour.
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Now you’ve checked out the latest trends, let’s take a look at what else you need to consider when choosing your latest luxury handbag.
Size
The first thing you need to consider when choosing your next designer investment is the size of bag you need to suit your lifestyle. We’d be inclined to say the bigger, the better; oversized handbags have long been dominating in the style stakes, and not only do they look great but they are extremely practical too. Most women are well known for carrying lots of things around with them and a big handbag ensures you can continue to do so – but if you’re looking for a bag for a night out or a glamorous event, then consider a smaller and daintier choice – a clutch is a great choice.
Colour
It can often be tempting to snap up a bright statement handbag, but if you’re on the hunt for one you can use on a daily basis, then it’s sensible to opt for something a little more versatile. Classic blacks and browns will work well with any outfit, so you’ll never have to worry about an unintentional clash. Black definitely doesn’t mean boring, and in fact, this bold and dramatic shade has a high fashion edge to it which cannot be replicated by any other colour. That said, a bright pop of colour works well against a simple monochrome look – so invest in a variety of bags in different shades if you can.
Material
Once you have taken colour and material into account consideration, take a look at the materials on offer and decide which will work best for you. It is imperative to go for a material that is of a high quality; your bag is going to be used frequently and so if you go for a lightweight or poor quality material then you are only going to find yourself replacing it more frequently than you would have liked to. Leather is always a recommended choice when looking for your perfect bag – and a designer piece is always a sound investment that will last you long into the future.
Compartments
Compartments can help you to keep your bag organised, meaning there’s no rummaging around in a huge abyss when you need to answer your mobile phone or pay for that morning latte. If you find yourself using them a lot, then be sure to take this into account when making your next purchase, as with a busy lifestyle, organisation plays a key role in keeping stress to a minimum.
Access
A secure handbag is vital; particularly if you’re going to be carrying around some high-worth items such as your tablet or a purse packed full of cash and credit cards. A button fastening alone may not be enough to keep your belongings safe, so opt for a zip fastening at all times to deter picket-pocketers and thieves. This type of fastening also allows you a little more discretion; let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than having people able to look at exactly what you’re carrying around with you, especially if there is something personal in there.
This season, there’s a trend to suit everyone, and with a few careful considerations, you’re bound to find the handbag that suits you. With so many beautiful pieces lining the shelves of designer boutiques this spring, the only challenge remaining is to buy just one. After all, let’s face it – you can never have too many handbags.
