The Look of the Classic Handbag
I love a classic handbag, but it's never easy to find them. After all, there's such a fine line between classic and just plain boring.
For me, it all comes down to hardware. A bag without hardware is like a house without trim: it's functional, but isn't very pretty to look at.
NBC just did an online piece on handbags, "Five Rules: Handbag Hints from Ken Downing," and it's actually quite helpful. They interviewed Ken Downing, Senior VP and Fashion Director at Neiman Marcus about what to look for when buying a bag – one you plan to carry for years (not just the latest fad). He advises sticking to silver or gold hardware and to (surprise) look for good craftsmanship.
In addition to the Chloe Victoria Ostrich-Embossed Tote for $1595 at Neimans, the article recommends the Kristin clutch – a pretty Coach clutch that is stylish and not, well, astronomically priced.
The writer struggled to find anything less expensive, proving the old adage that you really do get what you pay for.
Photo above is from coach.com.