How to Maximize Your Wardrobe with the RIGHT Handbag
How do you feel when you can't match your handbag with your outfit? Do you sometimes feel like it can ruin your Look?
I feel the same way. I used to have this brown boho bag with tassels, thinking it was “neutral” (because it was brown), but after a while, it just seemed like it kept putting a big eye sore on my outfits.
The long tassels and massive tote size, just consuuuuuumed my Look. Anything I put on, didn’t matter what- the eyes would go straight towards this bag.
It just always seemed to follow me and take over the direction of my Look, rather than complimenting my outfit.
Eventually, I chucked this bag, and it felt SO good.
Amidst travelling and quite a few moves... what has been a breeze for me is my "bag ratio." Yes, I'm using math with fashion. I've found if you have 2 "go-to bags" and 3 "fun bags"... you are set for everyday life and also increasing your outfit combinations.
Let's break the math apart...
The "Go-To Handbag"
The "go-to handbag" is your everyday bag. I recommend having 2- one for the colder months and one for the sunnier months. And everyone pretty much does this.
Okay, let's get to the juicy stuff...
Now how to find the perfect "go-to" bag! Look at your closet and typical outfits throughout your week. Where is the gap? Where are your outfits falling short? What style vibe do you wish you could communicate better without having to buy a whole new wardrobe?
Your BAG can easily solve this. If you wish your wardrobe were more romantic, go for a bag with some soft florals. Do you wish your wardrobe was more avante garde and edgy? Go for a cool, structural piece using unique materials. Would you like your wardrobe to be elegant and timeless? All you need is a well-made gorgeous, timeless designer bag (that you got on sale) to make this happen.
So, if you don't have too much wiggle room with $$$ to buy new clothes, a new bag is a FANTASTIC way to redirect your style vibe.
This Renata Corsi bag "go-to bag" if you want to add a chic, fashion-forward vibe.
This Persaman NY bag is great for bringing a feminine & preppy feel.
This Carla Ferreri bag gives just the right amount of edge, with still a layer of classiness.
The "Fun Handbag"
The "fun bag" is a UNIQUE bag that has directly changes the style vibe of your Look. My "fun bags" are evening bags, quirky vintage bags, or an odd texture/shape/color.
When a "fun bag" is added to your Look, it makes a simple outfit that you wear ALL the time, FEEL DIFFERENT.
These bags are serious life-savers. When your Look feels tired, overdone, and you just don't want to wear the saaaaaaame thing everyday... by simply adding a "fun bag" especially with an unexpected shoe and hairstyle- you immediately grew your closet without even buying any clothes.
Ummmm YEP, that's what I'm talking about.
This Mango bag has a unique contrast of a romantic and edgy vibe- there is something for everyone!
Missing an artsy quirkiness? This bag is for you!
And HOW FUN is this minaudiere?!?! TOO much.
And there you have it! Your next step to increasing your wardrobe, withOUT spending a ton of $$$ on clothes.
Below you'll see a a couple of my favorite "go-to handbags" : )
I love this black tote with the tassel and gold detailing. It's the perfect mix of a bohemian edge in a classic design. It's great for days when I know I'll be carrying a few things (sweater, book, laptop)... and ESPECIALLY for travel (and doesn't look to frilly when my husband has to carry it). This also came from my mom's closet. If you have a friend or family member with similar taste, it's fun to rotate your bags amongst the 2 of you!
I've been CRAZY over this bag. It's the perfect size to fit JUST the essentials (yet there's still room from my massive sunglasses). The unique shape adds a fun vibe to a simple outfit, yet it's in a texture and tone that matches almost anything in my closet (i wear a lot of creams, blacks, whites, blush, & blues).
Another feature, that i look for in a fantastic handbag... FEET! It feels so much more special when it properly & politely sits up next to you like a little lady. Something about it adds to the value of experience with it. It makes me treat it a lot better with more care (along with everything I put inside it).
oh... and did I mention I found it at TJ Maxx????!!! Yep, just $19.99 baby. I really recommend finding a "go-to bag" on clearance or on sale. Get the quality you need! I also recommend Saks Off 5th or Nordstrom Rack, as other places to snag a bag. And one last tip, use the filters to set your budget- you don't want to fall in love with one that's TOO expensive and you end up regretting it!!