Iconic Handbags

"Make a statement with a standout signature bag that adds polish to any look."

 

Hermés Kelly: The ultimate in elegance, sophistication, and luxury. First designed by Hermès in the 1930s, this legendary bag became a sensation in 1956, when Grace Kelly appeared on the cover of Life magazine holding it to cover her pregnancy. The original crocodile version used by Kelly remains one of the most memorable and covetable bags of the past century.
Hermés Birkin: Perhaps the most sought-after bag in the country, the roomy Birkin (designed for British actress Jane Birkin in the 1980s) is infamous for having a waiting list of up to two years. After appearing as the must-have status bag for Kim Catrall’s character on “Sex and the City,” the Birkin is sure to be at the top of every fashionista’s wish list.
Louis Vuitton Speedy 30: The original brown carryall with gold monogram print has been a cult classic for more than 75 years. In 2003, Louis Vuitton began partnering with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to update the traditional style in fun, surprising colors. The hip, trendy Murakami bags include adorable cartoon characters and cherry blossoms, and are a hit among stars such as Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and Paris Hilton.
Gucci Horsebit Hobo: Both stylish and practical, the hobo’s relaxed, slouchy shape and bold metal hardware makes it a perennial favorite for everyday wear. Recently made popular again by Jessica Simpson, the large-sized version of the bag is now available in an assortment of rich colors and posh fabrics to match every mood, from monogram canvas to ultra-soft lambskin to decadent ostrich.
Balenciaga Le Dix Motorcycle: The current “it” bag for fashion editors and Hollywood starlets, this hard-to-find bag has been seen on celebrity trendsetters like Kate Moss and Sienna Miller. Defining details such as distressed leather, double-rolled handles, tassled zippers, and a couple of well-placed buckles give it just the right amount of streetwise flair. Its look even inspired the new tassled handbag trend.

 

Hit the Town With an Evening Handbag

"Dress up your evening wear with a sophisticated clutch, fun and flirty baguette,

or a decadent evening bag."

 

       Clutches: Small clutch handbags have no straps or handles.

      Baguettes: Baguette handbags have a long and rounded body resembling a bread baguette.

      Evening bags: Small evening bags in fabrics such as velvet and silk have a rich luster and a more formal look.

 

Everyday Handbags

"Pack up your cell phone, accessories, makeup, and anything else you need

when you leave the house."

 

      Satchels: Large satchels close at the top, have a top carrying handle, and a triangular side profile.

      Shoulder bags: Shoulder bags have a single strap or double set of straps that make it easy to carry the purse over your shoulder.

      Flapbags: Flapbags feature a fold-over flap that covers your purse's contents.

      Demi handbags: Small demi handbags have a short carrying handle at the top. You can carry it in your hand or over your shoulder.

      Drawstring handbags: Drawstring handbags have a thin strip of fabric, leather, cord, or string woven through a series of eyelets at the top of the bag. Pull the strip and the top of the bag gathers together to close.

      Shopper bags: Shopper bags are similar to satchels and are usually roomy top-handle handbags with a zip or button closure, the type of bag you would take to the mall to go shopping.

      Doctor’s bags: Long, with slightly rounded edges, doctor's bags resemble the doctor’s bags of old days. Prada, for example, made the doctor’s bag famous again when it introduced its nylon-and-leather handbag. Use it as a purse or take it on overnight trips.

      Hobo bags: Small to midsized hobo bagscome in a small, crescent shape that you can swing over your shoulder.