Style Tip :: Top Going Out Handbags for Fall

Last week, I talked about great office attire for the cooler seasons. Today, I want to spend time on … handbags! Handbags are a key essential in any wardrobe. Whether you’re a busy city exec, a full time Mom, a student or a blogger (we know how much us bloggers LOVE handbags), most of us ladies like to keep our purses, phones, make up and other essentials close to hand at all times. Once upon a time, the term handbag was limited to a particular style of bag with handles. Nowadays, however, it is an umbrella term encompassing a wider range of women’s bags. Here, I’ll take you through the essentials for Fall 2013. 

Photo Credits: Sincerely Jules wearing Katespade / 9 to 5 Chic wearing Celine (similar here) / My Phillip Lim Medium

The handbags that are hot this season are quite simple, in fitting with this season’s colours. For day wear, all you need is a versatile black leather handbag which will see you through the whole of Fall and Winter, and which goes perfectly with the tartan (plaid) trend, nouveau grunge vibe, and all the other styles that are in fashion at the moment. Though a black handbag is essential in anyone’s closet however, I drool over bold color options (I’m sure you already know that my cobalt blue Pashli and I are inseparable).

Photo credits: WildFleur wearing Chanel / Vogue, Mira Duma wearing Shourouk (similar use “MLS10%OFF” at check out for 10% off) / Cashmere and Cupcakes wearing Clare Vivier

Evening wear handbags are harder to find. After all, you need a big enough bag to keep your things in, but you don’t want a huge tote bag or backpack cramping your style. Your first option is a clutch bag, a classic fashion staple. This year the clutches on offer are big, bold, and brilliant. Clutches are definitely my favourite when it comes to a night out. The possibilities are endless, my favourite options are a fold-over leopard option, one with embellished jewels (think Shourouk) and of course a classic designer number like a quilted Chanel or a patent Ferragamo. 

Photo Credits: Vivaluxury wearing ASOS / Lovely by Lucy wearing Phillip Lim (similar in camo) / Wendy’s lookbook wearing Paula Cademartori

Another option right now, a trend that is carrying on through Fall, is the mini satchel (clearly a huge fan of the Phillip Lim mini satchel). I’ve always loved satchels; they are a classic style, and they add some sophistication and ladylike elegance to any business outfit. But they’ve never really been a going out handbag; until now! Mini satchels are cute, versatile, and can add a great twist to any outfit. Feel free to choose a solid colour or why not try a colour block version?

Adding handbags to your collection doesn’t necessarily mean breaking your piggy bank, there are many inexpensive trendy version.  I have found some really good cheap handbags to choose from, so you don’t need to spend lots every time, though I do encourage to make a couple of good investments in your lifetime. If you’re trying to be economical, why not buy a couple of handbags in versatile colours, such as black, white or neutral, which can then work with a number of different outfits?

On some occasions, carrying items around with you just can’t be avoided. If you do need to take a larger bag out, there are some great handbag and tote styles that will compliment an evening outfit without looking cumbersome. Leather bags with chunky buckles or chains make a size-friendly alternative and keep your outfit looking stylish while still being practical.

Whatever your needs, there are so many choices this season, with clutches, tote bags, and satchels (Oh and backpacks! Which I have yet been brave enough to try) all having made a big summer comeback, that there’s bound to be a handbag for you.

One last note, if you’re in the mood to create your own DIY box clutch instead of spending cash on one – why not give me last DIY project a try? DIY Leopard Box Clutch, enjoy!

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