You’ve got a closet full of sundresses, a sleek pair of shades to suit every ensemble, and sandals that range from flip flops to gladiators to full-on platform wedges. In short, you have assembled just about every piece you need for a great summer wardrobe. But what will you use to carry all your stuff? The thick, heavy leathers of seasons past will look silly next to a breezy chiffon skirt, and pale pastel clothing won’t pair well with the dark plums and teals that characterized the fall and winter fashion palette. But instead of pulling out that straw bag that has faithfully served you for the past several summers (much to its detriment) why not choose one of the many offerings that have popped up for summer 2011? Here are just a few trends you may want to embrace.
1. Color blocking. The minimalist style first made popular by artists like Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman (amongst others) in the 1950s has enjoyed resurgence in every area of the fashion industry, from dresses to scarves to shoes, and handbags are no exception. Prada has epitomized the look with bold, blocky stripes in royal blue, black, and white. For a similar look (at a lot less cost) check out the London Fog Saville Hobo, available on Amazon for under $100.
2. Geometric prints. Also big on the color front are ‘60s-inspired geometric prints in bright, bold colors, like those featured in the Versace Greek Collection. Kailo’s Mod totes (available at Kohl’s) have a neat feel at a good price (around $70). The Kimono Tote Bags offered by Zia Moda will cost you a little more (at $110), but their bright colors are perfect for summer.
3. Florals. While you could certainly drop a small fortune on Oscar de la Renta’s contribution to this trend (a classic, demure floral clutch featuring beaded embellishment), you might do better to check out Fossil’s Key Per collection for a retro take on florals that offers some inventive prints (in the $50-150 range). Or take a look at the less expensive offerings from LeSportsac, always vibrant and fashion forward.
4. Clutches. Out are the bucket bags and oversized pieces of luggage that women have been passing off as purses for the last couple of years. Clutches are back in a big way, and not just as an evening accessory. Look for a clutch that is functional; it must be big enough for a small wallet, a cell phone, and keys if you’re going to use it daily. But look for interesting materials, patterns, or details to make it your own, such as metallic embellishments, different colors of leather, or even a hard-case (like wood). Try Zappos for a good selection of clutches that vary by size and price. The Hurley Spectrum Checkbook Wallet in bright yellow is super cute (but a bit small) at $32 while Betsy Johnson and Anuschka both have some colorful and graphic offerings that range between about $100 and $150.
5. Nautical theme. If you’re looking for a bag that’s fun for the beach or just some daytime errands, check out the selection of hip nautical-themed bags on eBags, like the LeSportsac anchor tote, which is totally adorable (and affordable at about $40). Or hop on the Ella Vickers website to find the real deal: recycled sailcloth bags that will only set you back about $150.
Leah Montgomery writes for Discount Vouchers where you can find John Lewis discount vouchers and plenty of other great deals.
Comments on this entry are closed.