Dooney & Bourke Patent Aqua Bag

After I wrote about those kickass rain coats, I got to thinking. When it’s raining out, I not only still want to look good, I need to keep my belongings from getting wet, especially my electronics. Trust me, you would not want to deal with me if something happened to my BlackBerry. It’s my lifeline, and even more than staying in touch with friends or being available when my mom calls, I need it to keep up with Twitter. Come on, like you weren’t having a bout of withdrawal the other day when it was down. That’s what I thought. So yeah, the last thing I need is for my BlackBerry—or any of my stuff, really—to get drenched when the weather’s bad. The other thing is, most of my handbags are leather, along with a few that are suede. I do have a couple that are nylon or some other material, but they’re mostly totes or other fun summer bags that don’t really go with my fall wardrobe. I didn’t realize this before, but not only does patent leather look great, it’s waterproof. Duh. What took me so long? Now I’m seriously considering this Dooney & Bourke Patent Aqua bag.

First of all, check the name—Aqua? It’s perfect for wet weather! Now, I have to admit, I was not a fan of Dooney & Bourke several years ago when they came out with those hideous two-toned bags. You know the ones I mean. The tan/red, tan/blue, and tan/green monstrosities that every other woman was carrying for an interminable couple of years. Yuck. I’ve stayed away from the brand since then. But after seeing this patent leather bag, I’m having second thoughts. It’s a great size at 13 inches wide and 9 inches high, big enough to hold everything so it will all stay dry when you’re out in the rain. It also has a top zip closure for even more protection against the elements. The single handle will easily slip over your shoulder with a 6.25-inch drop, high enough to gain some extra protection nestled under the arm of your coat. The interior is lined with a sturdy pink fabric, with a key hook, a back wall zip pocket,and a front slip pocket. There are also two exterior side drawstring pockets, just the right size for holding a bottle of water, something I often carry with me. In basic black, it will go with most of your fall clothes, but it also comes in aqua, bubblegum, lemon, and mint. I like it in black, but I’m also leaning toward the cherry to go with these Stuart Weitzman T-strap sandals I got a while back. In the meantime, you can get the Aqua bag in any color you like for $295 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternative 1

Now see, this is what I’m talking about with product names. Designers need to be creative while being descriptive, and keep the names short and simple. MONSAC did it right with the Genie Bowler bag. I’m not sure about the genie part, but it really does look like those bags bowlers carry, doesn’t it? Except way more stylish. Also patent leather with a top zip closure, it will keep all your necessities safe and dry, while making you look fabulous carrying it. The dual handles are great for hand carrying, but also give the bag a nine-inch drop if you prefer it on your shoulder. The interior logoed lining boasts a rear wall zipper pocket, perfect for a BlackBerry, or whatever other inferior phone you’re using. It only comes in black, but it’s a steal right now. It usually retails for $268, but the clearance price is just $156.46 at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternative 2

If it’s really coming down out there, you need at least one hand free to hold your umbrella. You didn’t spend all morning on hair and makeup for nothing, right? But maybe you also have to carry a laptop case, and it’s just nice to have a hand free to unlock the car and open doors. You don’t want to be juggling stuff while it’s raining, and you definitely don’t want to drop something when you’re trying to get situated. The Nine West Element 9 Shine Cross-Body bag is a great solution. You can just sling it over your body and keep both hands free while knowing your bag, and everything in it, are securely attached and not going anywhere. At 8.5 inches wide and 10 inches high, it’s big enough to hold everything without being a huge burden at your side. The top zips to keep everything dry and secured, even when the bag is bouncing against your hip as you run from the house to the car. The interior is lined, and has a back wall zip pocket, and a few slip pockets as well. In addition to this black option, it also comes in a bordeaux/black combination. Either way, it’s only $59 at Zappos.com.