The fact that this purse was a yummy mint green and I just so happened to be craving mint chocolate chip ice cream, had me drooling over this Balenciaga The First handbag. Swathed in trademark distressed mint green, or rather as those oh-so-fashion-forward Italians purr, vert de menthe, this Balenciaga is no doubt delicious to behold—and hold. I never would have thought that antique brass would flatter a mint green hue. Actually, if you just told me about this bag without showing it to me, you’d probably end up with a slightly sicker hue of green all over your shoes. But Balenciaga makes it work.
The First bag is a classic square handbag, with buckles, studs and zip details in antiqued brass. It also features a removable mirror inside the zip pocket. You’ll also find a silver signature Balenciaga plate sewn inside the zip pocket. The bag also features a matching distressed leather shoulder strap that you can put on or remove when the mood strikes. I’d prefer to take this bag by its smooth clutch handles with the matching mint green stitching, though. Mint green never looked so good until you figure in the $1,200 price tag, from Diabro.com. Suddenly I’m left thinking, What do I really own that goes with mint green?
Budget Saving Alternatives
If you want to go for something between the high and low end prices, try this cool Long Bag design in mint green from Lazaro. It’s more of a tote, really, with more space for more stuff, but it’s not too big. Its long, streamlined design gives it a compact look that’s not too bulky.
Even though it’s also called mint green, it’s a very different shade from the Balenciaga handbag. Its darker, more muted color makes it a great option for work, as well as a casual bag for everyday use. Try it out for $172 from ebags.com.
So just how practical is a mint green purse for a grand? Well, if it’s a color you like, chances are, you already own some pieces that either match or complement that color. It is a great spring and summer pastel, reminiscent of that mint chocolate chip ice cream I was craving, or pistachio ice cream, if that’s what you prefer. It’s a cool color, meant to be worn in warm weather. So don’t discount it out of hand. Match it up with a few other pastels, and you have a whole spring/summer ensemble going on. And if that $1,200 price tag is too big for you, try this Necessary Objects Dare Carryall tote for just $34.89 at Endless.com.
