Size Matters

What size purse are you carrying this season? Nice and small is back (who would’ve thought?). One of my favorite clothing genres is on the rise again: women’s sportswear – and with it, comes a strong emphasis on structure.  

A well-constructed purse is priceless and will stand the test of time. My favorites are Hermes’ understated and classic shapes and colours. But you don’t have to shell out big dough to pick up one of these little autumn wonders.  Go on a hunt through thrift stores or your grandmother’s closet and find some of these hidden vintage jewels.  Look for ones with a great square frame, an antique clasp, and a short strap, or ones made of buttery leather, with a thin long strap. Look for shapes inspired by traditional doctor bags, traveler bags, and briefcases.

 This fall I am carrying my beloved hand-me-down Kelly bags (courtesy of my extremely elegant yet genuinely generous and crazy relaxed mother), and other beauties that I had the privilege of finding second hand (vintage pieces that have already been broken in for you are precious).

How are your purses sizing up?

stockholmstreet style

alltheprettybirds

Both from the Sartorialist, Jil Sander s/s 2011

knightcat

alltheprettybirds

knightcat

stockholmstreetstyle

Hermes bag in lilac (personal fave!!!)

stockholmstreetystyle

stockholmstreetstyle

grey chanel

stockholmstreetstyle

stockholmstreetstyle

stockholmstreetstyle

stockholmstreetstyle

amazing YSL bag

stockholmstreetstyle

stockholmstreetstyle

caroline'smode

Derek Lam, ram's head detailing

Elle magazine, October 2010, Karolina Kurkova

Whether it is thrifted, a family heirloom or brand new, these little accessories can add a lot of class to an outfit. Carrying around a structured bag can add a softer touch to a more grungie look (for example, adding it in with a biker jacket or chunky frye boots), or add  some sophistication to a casual look (for example, pairing with jeans and a boyfriend shirt). Bring them along with basically anything. All they do is make you feel eternally chic!

Still loving style.

J.