There are a few wardrobe essentials that every woman should have. A pair of well-fitting jeans, a nice pair of slacks, a top that goes with both, a sweater for warmth, and as an accessory, to name just a few. Then you need a pair of boots, and a pair of flats, both of which go with everything else. And, of course, a handbag. At least one classic design, in a neutral color that you can carry whether you’re in jeans or dressed up for the office. An all around bag that will hold everything you may need to carry, so we’re not talking clutch, and you wouldn’t show up at work carrying a beach tote. At least I hope you wouldn’t. I’ve seen people wear some, uh, let’s just say unusual things to the office. Here’s a tip: If what you’re about to put on makes you look like your second job requires you to stand on a street corner, you might want to rethink it before you go to your day job. But anyway, back to the handbag. It doesn’t matter how dressed up you get, choose a handbag that doesn’t suit what you’re wearing, and the entire look is blown. Choose a sophisticated, classic bag, and you can’t go wrong. And if you’re not sure what that looks like, check out the Michael Toschi Medium Breadbag.
I don’t know what that name is about, but I can assure you, the bag doesn’t have a twistie tie closure. This Toschi bag is a classic design, though, with sleek lines, dual handles just right for either shoulder- or hand-carrying, and a tried and true pattern—crocodile. It’s not real crocodile, just embossed leather, but the croc look has been a fashion staple for a long time now, and I don’t see it going away anytime soon. The Breadbag has a satiny fabric lining with a back wall zip pocket, and leather stitching around the top edge for a finished look. The bag closes with a magnetic clasp, and comes with a detachable zippered pouch you can carry inside the handbag, or carry by itself when you only need a few small items. It also comes with a dust bag, which may very well close with a twistie tie, but I doubt it. Ok, so red isn’t really a neutral color for your classic handbag, but there’s nothing that says you can’t update a classic. It also comes in a lighter red lizard pattern. And here’s the best part—it’s on sale. It normally goes for $690, but you can get it for less than half that. It’s just $310 at Endless.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 1
You know, I’m not really that crazy about Jessica Simpson. I think she’s way overrated, she can’t sing, she can’t act, basically she’s famous because she’s blonde, pretty, and blonde. Oh, and because she was willing to be a reality TV guinea pig on that ridiculous show with her former husband. I don’t care what she and her publicist say, I don’t think the dumb blonde thing is an act, or if it is, it’s a really dumb thing to do. Who wants to be known for thinking buffalo wings come from buffaloes? Anyway, as much as she annoys me, she does come out with some really cute shoes and handbags. Maybe she just should have started out that way to begin with and spared us all the airheaded nonsense. I often find items in her line that I like, and this Gossip Satchel is no exception. Again, it has the classic croc pattern, which is embossed on synthetic leather, so you’re going to save some money right there. It has dual handles that give it a nine-inch shoulder drop, but it also comes with a detachable strap that adds two more inches to the drop. A platform bottom keeps the bag steady while you’re searching for your keys, which will be easy to find since there’s a key ring holder inside. Also inside is a back wall zip pocket, and a few slip pockets, and the bag comes with a small, matching accessory bag. A top zip closure keeps everything together. Try it out for $98 at Zappos.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 2
It’s the least expensive bag in the bunch, but I don’t care—it’s my favorite, despite the unimaginitive name. The J Renee 5961 tote is another example of true classic, but updated to be affordable. The exterior is synthetic, but you’d never know it the way it gleams like real polished leather. The croc print is in a gorgeous color called bordo that almost looks like tortoise shell. It also comes in green, which looks a little more like authentic croc, and in purple, which I do not recommend at all. Ick. It has a twill lining, with a back wall zip pocket, and a detachable strap to allow for shoulder carrying. Without the strap, the bag has a three-inch drop, so it won’t get in the way when carried by the handles. It’s finished off with a simple flap closure. You know I love a good sale, and this is a really good one. It usually retails for $89, but it can be yours for only $49.35 at Endless.com.
