Handbag Chic: Smaller Brands, Big Style

New Designers, Quiet Luxury, Shoes and Bags, Wardrobe Essentials

Handbags aren’t just accessories; they’re part of our daily lives and our signature style.

This week, we’re diving into the extraordinary topic of handbags! For most of us, our bags are true everyday companions. We spend more time with our handbags than with just about any other part of our wardrobe or aspect of style, and they carry our lives with them. The right bag gives us peace of mind that we have everything we need, and it helps us stay organized and sane in the midst of our busy lives. Handbags also speak volumes about our level of chic and success, second only to shoes. If you haven’t heard me say this before, shoes are the first thing people notice when checking you out…and your bag is a close second. Given how much time we spend with our bags—and how much they say about us—finding the perfect one is crucial. I’m a firm believer that you should always be in love with whatever you have on, and that absolutely includes your handbag!

With all that said, we want to love the style of our bags—and all the little details that make them easy to live with every day, whatever our lives happen to look like. That’s a big part of what we’re sharing today. And even better, we’re featuring some magnificent smaller handbag design houses that offer the same incredible quality as the big designers—but with a much lower price tag. How much more fun does that make the hunt for the perfect bag?!

So, let’s jump in!

Tote Bags

The tote is probably the most necessary bag style for anyone who travels or works. It’s your go-to bag for carrying your laptop and all the other essential items you need to move through your day. I consider all bags an investment, but this one isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a workhorse. If you’re traveling, it keeps you sane and organized throughout your flights and beyond. If you’re working, your tote says a lot about your style and success—whether people realize they’re assessing you or not. And when you can easily lay your hands on whatever you need, it not only keeps you organized, it builds your confidence as you navigate your day.

Top-Handle Bags

The top-handle bag is one of the most requested and most used styles for professional dressing. Its structured shape creates a powerful presentation that’s perfect for work—and for luncheons and lunches too. I’m a huge fan of the style of this bag and the punch it packs in terms of presence. I think you’re going to love what you see here!

Shoulder Bags

Shoulder bags are a little more relaxed but still bring plenty of fun chic to the table. They’re one of the most popular styles out there, and they lend themselves to a more hands-free experience. We’ve found some stunning options that will make a fabulous addition to your handbag wardrobe!

Hobo Bags

The easy, relaxed style of the hobo bag makes it ideal for casual dressing. This timeless and popular bag packs a lot of punch for your more relaxed attire.

Crossbody Bags

Over the years, the crossbody bag has taken the number one spot in bag popularity. It comes in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they all have in common is that hands-free ease as you move through your day. Beyond the convenience, these bags also deliver major chic! I’m a huge fan of these yummy styles—they really have that wow factor.

In Summary

As mentioned earlier, bags are an absolute necessity for us as women. They allow us to carry everything we might need while we’re out and about. And truly, we spend more time with our handbags than just about anything else in our lives—even our families! With that in mind, selecting a bag that speaks to your fashion-loving soul is an investment that will pay you back in spades, boosting both your organization and your confidence. Have so much fun exploring these treasures—each one is worth its weight in gold. And even better, you’ll spend far less gold for these gorgeous, beautifully crafted, designer-quality bags.

Oh boy! Does this mean more than one? Of course it does!

PSSST! Looking for more curated shopping? Check out some of our other recent posts!

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