I’ve been focusing on color quite a bit this summer. It’s funny. I like cold weather better than hot, but I like spring and summer colors better than fall and winter ones. So I tend to get caught up in all the beautiful yellows, greens, pinks, oranges, and even blues, although that’s not my favorite handbag color unless we’re talking about Botkier handbags. They have the most gorgeous blue handbags ever. Anyway, my point is, I’ve been neglecting a summer staple—white. Just like I don’t care much for blue handbags, I think white shoes are usually hideous. The exceptions are wedding shoes. I guess most white shoes remind me of the clunky patent leather things my grandmother would make me wear when I was little. They had black soles, and would ALWAYS get scuffed within about three minutes of putting them on. Then I’d get in trouble for getting my shoes dirty. Hey, here’s a tip. If you don’t want white shoes to get scuffed and dirty, don’t put them on a four-year-old! But I digress. Anyway, I avoid white shoes, but I do like a nice, crisp white handbag when the occasion is right. I especially like this Cole Haan Village Triple Compart Satchel.
This would be a great handbag for work. In fact, it would go really well with the Kate Spade shoes I was talking about the other day. It’s made from patent leather, so it’s nice and shiny, and will reflect sunlight, brightening up any ensemble. It’s a classically shaped satchel, with nice, clean lines, so it will go well with an office suit, or even jeans and a flouncy summer blouse. Inside, the bag boasts a triple compartment with plenty of storage, all lined in canvas. The top zips closed, keeping everything in its place. The Village also comes in black or raspberry patent. A dust bag is included. Get it for $348 at Endless.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 1
Get a similar look for less with this Tianni Valentina Satchel. Although it’s made of synthetic leather, which brings the price down quite a bit, it looks just as good as a real leather bag. It’s accented with angular seaming, contrast topstitching, and exterior zip pockets, one of which is adorned with a chain pull. The interior lining is polyester, and offers a back wall zip pocket. The top closes with two magnetic snaps. The white looks great, but it’s also available in black, cream, or coral, which is absolutely gorgeous. Get a couple of colors since it’s on sale. It was $93, but it’s now just $64.93 at Endless.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 2
Save even more with the O’Neill Vicky Shoulder Bag. Although it’s called a shoulder bag, the drop is only eight inches, so I’d probably hand carry it myself. It’s also made of faux leather, which is tucked in the center exterior front for great visual interest. The dual straps are made from the same material, and there’s a drawstring around the top of the bag as well, which is more for show than function. Inside you’ll find a back wall zip pocket, and funky plaid fabric lining. The top zips closed. The Vicky also comes in black, and it’s just $42 at Zappos.com.
