There’s kitsch and then there’s camp: too much kitsch (and sometimes too much is just a little bit) can kill a bag, even if it’s knowing nod to a humorous reference. But camp is smart, infusing a sense of the over-the-top with a clever smirk. Proenza Schouler has camp down, especially when it comes to their latest mélange of shapes and materials, the Tiki clutch. The crescent silhouette delivers an automatic mega-wink, and the enamel and resin chain links (the strap is removable) are so oversized, you can’t help but smile. Add to that earthy whipstitched trim, a funky bar that brings to mind retro patio furniture, and a contrasting buckle, and you’ve got a blend that shouldn’t work but undeniably does.
Take your pick of treated stingray – in Celedon, Sea Green, and Cantaloupe, an array of colors so refreshing they belong in a mixed drink, as well as chic and sleek black – or wackier raffia, for just a dash of kitsch that doesn’t dissatisfy. Actually, the Tiki is so good, I think I’ll be a regular at this lounge. At Barneys New York for $2,090-$2,170.
When it comes to my more “serious” bags, I’m not much for outlandish patterns. I’ll stick to my elegant exotics and seductive leopard spots, thank you very much. But when you’re talking totes, it’s a bag of another breed entirely. Bring on the wild prints and off-the-wall patterns! Especially now that we’ll be spending more time luxuriating in the sunshine, it’s the right moment for a tote that’s big on personality and low on sobriety.
1. Dolce & Gabbana Tomato-Print Cotton-Canvas Tote: I knew tomatoes ripen around this time of year, but this brings them to another level! Dolce is loving the fruit-and-veggie garden this season, and this is a perfect way to work the market trend. On Net-a-Porter
2. Dries Van Noten Photo-Print Canvas Shopper: Forget postcards. Bring the atmosphere with you wherever you go with these collaged countryside prints. On My Theresa for $740.
3. Proenza Schouler Printed Canvas Tote: A Hawaiian-print dress can be hard to pull off with finesse, but a tote? No problem! Juxtaposing sides will keep this summer fling feeling fresh. On Net-a-Porter
4. Vanessa Bruno Embroidered Canvas Tote: Chartreuse embroidered canvas that resembles Rococo wallpaper doesn’t sound too crazy, but splashes of lime-green sequins turn this up more than a few notches. On Net-a-Porter
5. Balenciaga Animal-Print Hair-Calf Tote: There’s no way I could avoid at least one animal pattern! The structure and calf-hair of this tote make it a bit more formal, with a colorful mishmash that exudes friskiness. On My Theresa for $2,895.
I absolutely love it when Michael Kors takes me on safari. Okay, so we’ve never spotted wildebeests in a luxury caravan together, but clearly the man knows how to travel in style! Blending Eastern exoticism with classic American glamour is what he’s best known for – and this is one of Kors’ best bags ever.
I can almost always enjoy them, but woven totes are a dime a dozen. This one takes the idea to a level of untamed beauty. Snake-embossed strips of leather introduce an abundance of texture to the weave. The result: maximum lushness. The geometry is also just right; elongated, trailing straps make their slimness more proportional to such a large tote. They also drive home that carefree feel.
In natural terra-cotta, the weave almost looks like raffia, but in an exotic print, this is perfect for the office and seaside locales. How many bags can bridge that gap? I see myself throwing everything from a picnic blanket for the park to an iPad and snacks for the plane in this savage beauty. Summer life, and the traveling that comes with it, needs a tote like this. Now if I could only get that invitation from Mr. Kors! At Neiman Marcus
Pair with: A shot of yellow will polish this off nicely. From Mulberry’s patent platform ($865) to Prada’s wooden touch ($890) to Rachel Zoe’s goldenrod peep-toe ($325), an energetic sandal is where it’s at.
Just how attached are you to your iPad? My gadget and I are so tight, it necessitates a bag of its own. And one that doubles as a messenger means you don’t have to answer the question: does it make sense to get a bag that costs four times more than the iPad itself?
If my case is willing to work overtime, then I’m willing to go all-out! No other cover out there will beat this sequin-adorned, chain-strapped bag. Dolce & Gabbana never claimed to shy away from excess; they satisfy those who want more, more, more. A family of star charms (their latest trademark) makes it outshine with even more sparkle. I love the sense of humor this case exudes, without being colorful or kooky. The exterior front pouch is big enough for your other essentials, so you can dash about with just this bag and be all set. Freedom and frivolity – what more can a modern woman ask for? At Neiman Marcus
Pair with: Stay on the move with VPL’s viscose-and-elastane legging. The feel is pure comfort, but the look, with a neutral, abstract print, has plenty of polish for casual days. At Barneys New York for $275.
Give me a moment to gather myself. I’m on the verge of panting like a lunatic. The profound lust I have for this bag cannot be overstated. Its color instantly takes me to a happy place, and the structure and skin catapults me into fantasyland.
There’s no doubt about it: ladylike is back in full-force, but this vintage style in aquamarine ostrich goes beyond any trend. Mad Men inspired a whole obsession with the Sixties that still hasn’t completely died down, but this is even more innocently refined. Think 1950s, a time when women looked as perfect as the pastel-hued homes they kept.
Prada sure knows their way around a frame-top bag; it even might be what they are best at. This top-handle’s sturdy architecture seals the deal, cementing it as a classic with longevity to spare. There’s so much you can do with this dreamy ostrich: keep on with the theme and do it up like a lady, or funk it up with a shocking Goth vibe. Whatever you do, make it fun. Poodle-skirt anyone? At Neiman Marcus
Pair with: Something wild this way comes. The lady meets the rebel with Vera Wang’s boldly print satin dress. Watercolor-like bursts of color make this yellow frock a true standout. Literally. At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,095.
Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita, which was first published back in 1955, might still be one of the most controversial novels of all time, but I’d like to look at it from a lighter perspective. The lusted-after young lady had a great eye for accessories! While heart-shaped glasses might be the item most synonymous with the bubblegum-smacking, gossip rag-reading “nymphet,” the piece that was actually described in the book? Her little red purse she never wanted to put down! In honor of Dolores Haze, a pick of the scarlet bags she would spring for right now:
1. Delvaux Brillant MM Handbag: Outrageous and ladylike at the same time, who knew cherry vinyl would suit Delvaux so well?! Lolita would have gone nuts for this glossy, jelly-like finish.
At Barneys New York for $750.
2. Jimmy Choo Rebel Leather Shoulder Bag: There’s no doubt about it: mischievous Lolita was a rebel herself. This little coral-red bag is neat and perky, while the eyelet-detailed strap reveals a wild side.
On My Theresa for $895.
3. Christian Louboutin Carrie Medium Shoulder Bag: Retro and fresh, this structured shoulder style gets amped up by a rich gold-tone frame. A smooth leather flap and thick strap keeps it smart and simple.
At Barneys New York for $1,595.
4. Balenciaga Leather Accordion Clutch: This deep-crimson clutch has a forties-inspired silhouette and modern hardware, which signals a refreshing new mood for Balenciaga.
On My Theresa for $1,275.
5. Dolce & Gabbana Miss Kendra Tote: This aspiring starlet loved lying out in the sun. A woven, lacquered plastic tote takes the look of straw and glams it up with a great, big wink.
On Luisa via Roma
Trust Alexander Wang to give new meaning to the often-used term “sporty.” He’s not the only designer to do athlete-chic this spring, but it’s likely he’s done it the best. Referring to imagery of motocross and BMX racers, he is all about laser-cut mesh leather, evening-appropriate racing stripes, and Hawaiian-print cargo pockets.
I think this bag is the best example of his magical way with sport. Mesh is just dandy for jackets, but leather netting on a bag introduces texture that’s as lightweight as can be. I’ve said it before, and this really proves it: an everyday black shoulder bag does not have to be as boring as it sounds. Well, when it comes to Alexander Wang, boring is not even in the dictionary. This is cool, relaxed, and confident style, pure and unadorned (matte black hardware keeps it monochrome). Staying true to his original customer, this satchel is for the total city girl who can’t be bothered being fussy. Not that I’m going to Coachella, but this is the kind of bag that would be just the thing to bring to the grassy grounds. At Kirna Zabête for $850.
Pair with: You can’t hit the musical festival circuit without a killer pair of boots. Étoile Isabel Marant’s Sailor python-printed boots have fringe that will move right along with you. At Barneys New York for $1,060.
I pride myself in efficient traveling. I pack light because I bring essentials that can multi-task. The way I see it, the less extra stuff in tow to bog you down, the lighter and freer your trip! These are my secrets for happy trails.
1. Tote: Rag & Bone Woven Camel Beach Bag
You need a beach tote for most holidays, but one that can perform double-duty as an onboard tote keeps you lean and mean. The leather trim on this woven carryall turns this into a legitimate daily tote. Plus, it’s priced right for getting beaten up while traveling. Worry free is definitely essential for travel. On Ssense for $395.
2. Luggage: Road Warrior
The biggest buzz in the luggage world is over the soon-to-be-released Road Warrior. We were able to get a sneak peak of the most innovative design in suitcases since someone thought of putting wheels on them. The full-sized luggage (it comes in 5 shapes and sizes, as well as 3 colors) will collapse down to half its width for easy storage when you’re at home, so it fits nicely under your bed or takes up half the amount of room in your closet. And it comes with a storage bag with handles, so you can hang it in your hotel-room closet and keep it out of the way. I need this stat, but it’s not available until May. Inquire at Road Warrior for purchase.
3. Wallet/Clutch: Valentino Textured Leather Pouch
Everyone needs something like this for traveling: while you’re on the move, this is a pouch for your passport and documents; when you land, you suddenly have a clutch for evening. It also doubles as your pared-down wallet for day (you won’t need your membership cards and all those extra cards while abroad). Valentino’s looks divine, and it has enough room to also include basic cosmetics. On Net-a-Porter
4. Crossbody Bag: Adriana Castro Python Mini Carriel
Crossbody is the only way to go when you’re sightseeing. Python is lightweight and in its natural palette, the skin pairs beautifully with everything, especially summer brights. This sweet shape is big enough for a digital camera and your minimized wallet. At Adriana Castro for $985.
5. Packing System: Spacepack Set
Once you go Spacepak, you can never go back. I just cannot travel properly without these things anymore – I even have them for my kids. Now they’re a favorite for gift-giving in my circle of friends (who all end up buying more). It’s the most efficient way to pack. The cases double-compress everything, so you maximize the room in your suitcase. The multi-pack is Spacepack’s best deal. Trust me, you will need all three. The Shoe bag and Toiletry pouch are both sized to work with the Clothing pack, so it all fits neatly in your 30″ Road Warrior luggage. The best part is when you arrive at your hotel, take the entire pack out of your suitcase, unzip it, and stick the whole thing in a drawer. Voila! Unpacking is done in 30 seconds. The packs have two sides, one for clean and the other for laundry, so you’ll also enjoy easy organization when you arrive home. At Flight 001 for $98.
Friday the 13th has nothing on us snobs! Ward off evil today with a bag that not only uplifts your wardrobe but improves your good luck. Every culture has their symbol, from the Chinese’s penchant for red to the Austrian’s love of ladybugs to the great fortune that comes with finding a peacock feather to charmers to keep you safe, like rabbit’s feet and horseshoes. Which bag will make your day?
1. LADYBUGS:
Chanel Classic Flap Bag: In Austria, ladybugs are called “lucky bugs” (how cute is that?!). I have a feeling a bag that makes me smile this much just looking at it – splashy tweed is accented in delicate ladybug jewels – has lots of good fortune in store.
Inquire at Chanel for purchase.
2. RABBIT FOOT:
Givenchy Pandora Fur Bag: Sure, you could chuck a luck rabbit’s foot in your tote or hang one alongside your keys, but in Givenchy form it’s so much more fun. Rabbit-fur panels bring new life to the Pandora, especially in this transitional blush color.
On Farfetch for $1,380.
3.HORSESHOE:
Ralph Lauren Canvas and Leather Tote: Horseshoes have been known to be potent talismans for ages, and nobody does cowgirl culture better than the king of Americana, Ralph Lauren. This little keychain dangles with discreet charm.
On My Theresa for $495.
4. PEACOCK FEATHERS
Matthew Williamson Peacock Feather Clutch Bag: Genuine peacock feathers have been cut and arranged with artful intricacy on this electric-blue suede clutch. If one feather means good luck, imagine what fortune this bag possesses.
At Matthew Williamson for $1,495.
5. LUCKY BAMBOO
Gucci Diana Medium Shoulder Bag: Lucky bamboo AND in lucky red?! Double threat! You literally can’t go wrong with a classic Gucci hobo, especially when its got this no-fail pairing.
At Neiman Marcus for $1,590.
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