eighth in a series
The final piece to add to the foundation of a classic wardrobe is a leather nude purse. Although many fashionistas would advise against having a purse in the same color as your shoes, the fact remains that carrying a purse that is the same color (although not necessarily the same material) as your shoes gives a polished, classical look.
Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge with a beaded clutch and pale suede pumps from LK Bennett.
Sophie, the Countess of Wessex with beaded clutch and nude-colored pumps by Jimmy Choo.
Investing in a quality purse and shoes is exactly that — an investment. When properly taken care of, they will last for years and by choosing classic styles, they will never go out of style. Also, people tend to notice your purse and your shoes so it is important that they be the best quality you can afford.
Before making an investment, whether small or large, in a handbag there are three important things to consider: the material, the style and the size.
The Material
By now it should be no surprise that the material of choice is leather. A leather purse, when properly cared for, can last for 30 years or longer.
The Style
The one rule to remember concerning shape is pick a handbag shape that is the opposite of your body shape. For example, if you are tall and slender, a rounded bag is desirable. However, if, on the other hand, you are small and round, a rectangular bag would be a better choice.
Guidelines
If you have a Curvy Shape, carry a boxy handbag.
If you have a Slim Shape, carry a Rounded Hobo Bag or Soft Body Satchel.
If you are Petite, carry bags that are long vertically, but are not oversized.
If you have a Pear-Shape, Satchels and Bowler Bags are best. Avoid bags that hit at the hip.
If you have a Thick Waist, opt for bags with longer handles. Also, hip-length cross-body bags are excellent choices.
SIZE
The opposite rule is true when choosing the size of your purse. This time you want it to compliment your body size. If you are small and petite, a small purse looks better as a large purse will only make you look smaller. If you are tall, your best choice is a larger purse because anything smaller will look awkward.
THE BAGS
Boxy Handbags
Yves Saint Laurent YSL Cabas Chyc Medium Top Handle Bag
Lanvin Snakeskin Happy Bag
Marc Jacobs Baroque Single Bag
Kate Spade Signature Spade Madelyn Shield Bag
Jimmy Choo Candy Petrol Acrylic Clutch
Bowler Bags
L.A.M.B. Stripped Small Bowler
The Venetia Leather Bowler Bag by Marc Jacobs
Cross-Body Bags
Lark Small Duffle Bag by Philip Lim
See by Chloe’s Albane Top-Handle Bag
Quilting The Single Leather Bag by Marc Jacobs
Hobo Bags
Satchels
The Rider Bag by Loeffler Randall
Pour La Victoire Brice Satchel
Tod’s D-Styling Small Leather Bag
Vertical Bags
Loeffler Randall The Locker Tote and Clutch Set
Longchamp Le Pliage Large Shoulder Tote
(other posts in the series “Building A Classic Wardrobe One Piece at a Time — The White Button Down Shirt, The Dress Slacks, A Cashmere Twinset, The Black Skirt, The Black Tweed Blazer, The Sleeveless Black Dress, and The Nude Pump)
