Party Definitions
Black Tie, Formal, Dressy Casual and More!
By Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide
Banish pre-party jitters about attire with our quick reference to dress codes for social events.
Black Tie
A Black Tie invitation calls for formal attire. Men wear tuxedos, women wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.
Formal usually means the same as Black Tie, but in some trendier cities like New York or Los Angeles, it could mean a black shirt, no tie with a tux. Women wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.
A White Tie or Ultra-formal invitation requires men wear full dress, with white tie, vest, shirt. Women wear long gowns.
Black Tie Optional
A Black Tie Optional or Black Tie Invited gives you the option of wearing a tuxedo or formal dress, but it should clue you into the formality of the event, meaning a dark suit and tie would be your other option. Women wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.
Creative Black Tie
Creative Black Tie leaves room for trendy interpretations of formal wear. He can go more modern with a tux -- maybe a black shirt, no tie. She wears long or short dresses or evening separates.
Sometimes, themed parties call for dress codes like Texas Black Tie or other variations of Creative Black Tie. In that situation, you can have more fun with it, choosing a dressy look with a theme (for him, it could be a tux with boots and for her it could be a long dress paired with Southwestern style silver belt and jewelry).
Semi-Formal
Semi-Formal or After Five means that tuxes are not required, nor are long dresses. An evening wedding (after 6 PM) would still dictate dark suits for him, and a cocktail dress for her. Daytime semi-formal events mean a suit for him and an appropriate short dress or dressy suit for her.
Business Formal is the same as Semi-Formal for him, but for women it suggests that women opt for more tailored dressy suits and dresses (nothing too slinky or sexy).
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail Attire means short, elegant dresses for her and dark suits for him.
Informal
Informal is often interpreted as the same as Casual but it actually calls for the same dress as Semi-Formal -- dark suits for him, short dresses for her -- especially when associated with a wedding or special event.
Festive Attire
Festive Attire is usually seen around the holidays, with the mood of the party being Informal or Semi-Formal. For her, it means to choose looks with a bit of sparkle or holiday bent (i.e. a beaded sweater with black pants, a red silk blouse with a black skirt).
Casual
Dressy Casual calls for dressed-up versions of casual looks. For him, it could be trousers and a sportcoat, for her a dressy pants look. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts and other casual looks are not appropriate for Dressy Casual.
Casual generally means anything goes.
MY THOUGHTS
i didn't know that informal is not the same as casual. i go for casual, then. all the time. i love jeans. and shorts. any attire that won't take too much effort or time.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
Find Your Dream Dress
Find Your Dream Dress
By Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide
1. Decide on Formality:
Usually the event invitation will clue you into the formality of the event, whether it's casual or black tie. But sometimes even that will cause confusion (short dress or long?)
In general, the later in the day the event (after 6 p.m.), the dressier. Long dresses are usually reserved only for formal (black tie) occasions.
While some fabrics are year-round -- silk, brocade, organza, jersey -- fabrics like velvet and gold spangles are best reserved for winter holidays.
2. Flatter Your Figure:
The most important feature of your new dress is how well it flatters you.
Remember that darker colors and simple cuts (a sheath, an A-line) are the most flattering.
Show off your best feature. If you have gorgeous eyes, then play them up with beautiful makeup, off-the-face hair and jeweled earrings in a complimentary shade.
Not sure what your best asset is? Ask a friend or significant other. Or go to a store that sells special occasion dresses and enlist the salesperson's help.
3. Choose a Color:
You could just wear a little black dress (classy, flattering and slenderizing), but why not explore some of the other dressy options?
Red, bold prints, even gold are dramatic enough for evening wear. Pastels, mid-range brights and soft prints look great for dressy day occasions.
Blue (from navy to royal), pink (from cotton candy to fuchsia) and white (from candlelight to cream) look great on almost everyone. Remember that the "Don't wear white to a wedding" wisdom is still considered a fashion don't by most women.
4. Pick a Style:
Catalogs, the internet and magazines are a great places to seek special occasion dress inspiration.
Instead of going with something trendy, try to find a dress that reflects classic, timeless elegance. Remember that you'll have to look at photos of you in the dress for years to come.
Classic special occasion dresses are often deceptively simple, but they usually let the beauty of the wearer shine through. A few examples: the little black dress (a.k.a the cocktail dress), a goddess gown (draped and rouched), a ballgown, a slip dress.
5. Shop:
Set a budget before shopping. Special occasion dresses usually cost more than $100, but if you comparison shop you can find one that works in your price range.
Shop secondhand stores and sales to save even more money on a dress.
If you shop in a store, dress for the day by bringing along heels, any special accessories you know you want to use and a strapless bra.
When shopping online, make sure you understand both the sizing (know your measurements and check against a size chart on the site) and the return policy (some stores don't take returns on dresses.)
6. Accessorize:
The trimmings will take their cue from the dress, but for special occasions your jewelery usually gets bigger and your bag and shoes get smaller (as in strappy sandals).
Although you may want to add tons of glitz, remember that you can kill a look with too much matchy-matchy accessorizing. Find earrings, necklace and bracelet that compliment each other without being a matching set.
If your legs aren't perfect enough to go bare need camouflage and you don't like to wear leg makeup, then opt for super-sheer hose or fishnets.
MY THOUGHTS
too much effort. another reason i don't want dressing up for really special occasions. but when i have to, my decision for a dress will depend on the occasion itself, the crowd i'll be hobnobbing with, my role in the event, the place. see? i'm already getting headaches just thinking about it. and i really don't want spending too much on a dress that i probably won't wear again. i have a lot of those already. boxed up and gathering dust. by the time my nieces need them, they'll be so out of fashion wearing them would be like the kiss of death. but hey! there's recycling, right?
By Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide
1. Decide on Formality:
Usually the event invitation will clue you into the formality of the event, whether it's casual or black tie. But sometimes even that will cause confusion (short dress or long?)
In general, the later in the day the event (after 6 p.m.), the dressier. Long dresses are usually reserved only for formal (black tie) occasions.
While some fabrics are year-round -- silk, brocade, organza, jersey -- fabrics like velvet and gold spangles are best reserved for winter holidays.
2. Flatter Your Figure:
The most important feature of your new dress is how well it flatters you.
Remember that darker colors and simple cuts (a sheath, an A-line) are the most flattering.
Show off your best feature. If you have gorgeous eyes, then play them up with beautiful makeup, off-the-face hair and jeweled earrings in a complimentary shade.
Not sure what your best asset is? Ask a friend or significant other. Or go to a store that sells special occasion dresses and enlist the salesperson's help.
3. Choose a Color:
You could just wear a little black dress (classy, flattering and slenderizing), but why not explore some of the other dressy options?
Red, bold prints, even gold are dramatic enough for evening wear. Pastels, mid-range brights and soft prints look great for dressy day occasions.
Blue (from navy to royal), pink (from cotton candy to fuchsia) and white (from candlelight to cream) look great on almost everyone. Remember that the "Don't wear white to a wedding" wisdom is still considered a fashion don't by most women.
4. Pick a Style:
Catalogs, the internet and magazines are a great places to seek special occasion dress inspiration.
Instead of going with something trendy, try to find a dress that reflects classic, timeless elegance. Remember that you'll have to look at photos of you in the dress for years to come.
Classic special occasion dresses are often deceptively simple, but they usually let the beauty of the wearer shine through. A few examples: the little black dress (a.k.a the cocktail dress), a goddess gown (draped and rouched), a ballgown, a slip dress.
5. Shop:
Set a budget before shopping. Special occasion dresses usually cost more than $100, but if you comparison shop you can find one that works in your price range.
Shop secondhand stores and sales to save even more money on a dress.
If you shop in a store, dress for the day by bringing along heels, any special accessories you know you want to use and a strapless bra.
When shopping online, make sure you understand both the sizing (know your measurements and check against a size chart on the site) and the return policy (some stores don't take returns on dresses.)
6. Accessorize:
The trimmings will take their cue from the dress, but for special occasions your jewelery usually gets bigger and your bag and shoes get smaller (as in strappy sandals).
Although you may want to add tons of glitz, remember that you can kill a look with too much matchy-matchy accessorizing. Find earrings, necklace and bracelet that compliment each other without being a matching set.
If your legs aren't perfect enough to go bare need camouflage and you don't like to wear leg makeup, then opt for super-sheer hose or fishnets.
MY THOUGHTS
too much effort. another reason i don't want dressing up for really special occasions. but when i have to, my decision for a dress will depend on the occasion itself, the crowd i'll be hobnobbing with, my role in the event, the place. see? i'm already getting headaches just thinking about it. and i really don't want spending too much on a dress that i probably won't wear again. i have a lot of those already. boxed up and gathering dust. by the time my nieces need them, they'll be so out of fashion wearing them would be like the kiss of death. but hey! there's recycling, right?
Thursday, January 13, 2011
How to Accessorize a Special Occasion Dress
How to Accessorize a Special Occasion Dress?
By Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide
Question: How to Accessorize a Special Occasion Dress?
Answer: Pearls are a great choice to dress up a special dress. Look for a double or single strand pearl choker and some matching earrings. Also, a bracelet -- in something sparkly or pearls -- is nice. Long earrings with clear or colored jewels and large diamond studs are two other special looks. Choose a small embroidered, beaded or otherwise decorated handheld bag. For more coverage, you can add a sheer wrap to wear around your shoulders.
MY THOUGHTS
i hope i'll never get invited to an event where i have to wear something formal. i don't like pearls. i don't like wraps. well,i don't like formal!!!
By Cynthia Nellis, About.com Guide
Question: How to Accessorize a Special Occasion Dress?
Answer: Pearls are a great choice to dress up a special dress. Look for a double or single strand pearl choker and some matching earrings. Also, a bracelet -- in something sparkly or pearls -- is nice. Long earrings with clear or colored jewels and large diamond studs are two other special looks. Choose a small embroidered, beaded or otherwise decorated handheld bag. For more coverage, you can add a sheer wrap to wear around your shoulders.
MY THOUGHTS
i hope i'll never get invited to an event where i have to wear something formal. i don't like pearls. i don't like wraps. well,i don't like formal!!!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
How to Spot a Fake Designer Handbag
How to Spot a Fake Designer Handbag
Make Sure You are Buying an Authentic Bag
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
If you are looking to invest in a designer handbag, make sure you are getting the real thing. By following these simple tips, you can easily spot a fake bag. If you are still tempted to buy replicas, be sure to check out these reasons why you shouldn't buy a fake designer bag.
Know your bags.
The easiest way to spot a fake bag is to familiarize yourself with what the real thing should look like. Head to the department store, boutique or the designer's website where they sell the authentic bags. Make notes about the logo placement, hardware, size, materials and other important details about the bag that you want. By doing your research, you should be able to easily spot a replica.
Pay attention to detail.
When shopping, inspect the bag closely and pay attention to the detailing. Authentic designer handbags are made from quality leather with topnotch construction. The bags are normally hand-stitched. Look at the labels, where you will find the brand names and possibly serial numbers stamped, etched or stitched. Make sure the logos or monograms are the right shape and aligned properly.
Look for documentation.
When you buy an authentic designer bag, it will normally come with a certificate of authenticity or some kind of documentation. These can be faked too but falsified certificates are usually obvious. Many designer bags also come with dust bags as well.
Is it to good to be true?
If the price is pennies on the dollar of the MSRP, it's probably fake. Deals that seem too good to be true usually are. If you spot a Louis Vuitton bag for twenty bucks on eBay -- it's not real. Instead of purchasing a counterfeit designer bag, save your money for an authentic one and buy a couple less expensive bags in the meantime.
Be careful where you shop.
Designer handbags are sold in boutiques and department stores, as well as on department store and manufacturer websites. They generally aren't sold in kiosks, flea markets, street stands or out of the trunk of cars. Online, go to the designer's website and find out where their bags are sold. Also avoid online auction sites. Portero.com may be one exception -- they are known as a trusted resource for pre-owned authentic designer bags.
MY THOUGHTS
imagine that! fake authentications. there's no logic to it, is there. thing is- fake designer bags are evrywhere. they are even online.
Make Sure You are Buying an Authentic Bag
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
If you are looking to invest in a designer handbag, make sure you are getting the real thing. By following these simple tips, you can easily spot a fake bag. If you are still tempted to buy replicas, be sure to check out these reasons why you shouldn't buy a fake designer bag.
Know your bags.
The easiest way to spot a fake bag is to familiarize yourself with what the real thing should look like. Head to the department store, boutique or the designer's website where they sell the authentic bags. Make notes about the logo placement, hardware, size, materials and other important details about the bag that you want. By doing your research, you should be able to easily spot a replica.
Pay attention to detail.
When shopping, inspect the bag closely and pay attention to the detailing. Authentic designer handbags are made from quality leather with topnotch construction. The bags are normally hand-stitched. Look at the labels, where you will find the brand names and possibly serial numbers stamped, etched or stitched. Make sure the logos or monograms are the right shape and aligned properly.
Look for documentation.
When you buy an authentic designer bag, it will normally come with a certificate of authenticity or some kind of documentation. These can be faked too but falsified certificates are usually obvious. Many designer bags also come with dust bags as well.
Is it to good to be true?
If the price is pennies on the dollar of the MSRP, it's probably fake. Deals that seem too good to be true usually are. If you spot a Louis Vuitton bag for twenty bucks on eBay -- it's not real. Instead of purchasing a counterfeit designer bag, save your money for an authentic one and buy a couple less expensive bags in the meantime.
Be careful where you shop.
Designer handbags are sold in boutiques and department stores, as well as on department store and manufacturer websites. They generally aren't sold in kiosks, flea markets, street stands or out of the trunk of cars. Online, go to the designer's website and find out where their bags are sold. Also avoid online auction sites. Portero.com may be one exception -- they are known as a trusted resource for pre-owned authentic designer bags.
MY THOUGHTS
imagine that! fake authentications. there's no logic to it, is there. thing is- fake designer bags are evrywhere. they are even online.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Why You Shouldn't Buy a Fake Designer Handbag
Reasons Why You Shouldn't Buy a Fake Designer Handbag
Avoid Knockoffs and Replica Handbags
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
Many times you may covet a designer handbag that is out of your price range, but don't run off to the flea market to get a replica. Instead, save your pennies and look for an authentic bag on sale from a reputable retailer. Let's take a look at some of the reasons that you shouldn't buy a fake designer handbag.
Legality
Selling fake designer handbags is illegal. Counterfeit bags infringe on the copyright and trademarks of the designer and brand. By purchasing these bags, you are supporting these illegal acts. Instead, put away some money each month into your handbag fund and buy yourself the real thing for Christmas.
Child Labor
Most designer replicas are produced by organized crime and illegal enterprises. They are made by young children in very poor working conditions. By supporting organized crime, you aren't just supporting and contributing to child labor, but also to their other crimes including human trafficking, child abuse and prostitution.
Appearance
Most fake bags look cheap. They are made from low quality leather. The colors and dyes are oftentimes uneven. The stitching and general construction are poor. Authentic designers take pride in their workmanship. Sweatshops don't. Who wants to look like a poser anyway? If you can't afford the real thing, don't buy it.
Designers
By purchasing fake bags, you are hurting the designers and the manufacturers. The time, effort and creativity put into producing a bag is extensive, from the initial sketches through the time it goes on the shelves. Additionally, if designers and brands are constantly having to spend money in court protecting their designs, the cost of their bags will rise too.
MY THOUGHTS
something to think about. most definitely. that is,if you still have sound values and try to live your life based on principles. what's in bag anyway. nothing maybe. just leather and zipper and buttons. and the lives of the people who mada that bag possible. so, why think about it?
Avoid Knockoffs and Replica Handbags
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
Many times you may covet a designer handbag that is out of your price range, but don't run off to the flea market to get a replica. Instead, save your pennies and look for an authentic bag on sale from a reputable retailer. Let's take a look at some of the reasons that you shouldn't buy a fake designer handbag.
Legality
Selling fake designer handbags is illegal. Counterfeit bags infringe on the copyright and trademarks of the designer and brand. By purchasing these bags, you are supporting these illegal acts. Instead, put away some money each month into your handbag fund and buy yourself the real thing for Christmas.
Child Labor
Most designer replicas are produced by organized crime and illegal enterprises. They are made by young children in very poor working conditions. By supporting organized crime, you aren't just supporting and contributing to child labor, but also to their other crimes including human trafficking, child abuse and prostitution.
Appearance
Most fake bags look cheap. They are made from low quality leather. The colors and dyes are oftentimes uneven. The stitching and general construction are poor. Authentic designers take pride in their workmanship. Sweatshops don't. Who wants to look like a poser anyway? If you can't afford the real thing, don't buy it.
Designers
By purchasing fake bags, you are hurting the designers and the manufacturers. The time, effort and creativity put into producing a bag is extensive, from the initial sketches through the time it goes on the shelves. Additionally, if designers and brands are constantly having to spend money in court protecting their designs, the cost of their bags will rise too.
MY THOUGHTS
something to think about. most definitely. that is,if you still have sound values and try to live your life based on principles. what's in bag anyway. nothing maybe. just leather and zipper and buttons. and the lives of the people who mada that bag possible. so, why think about it?
How to Accessorize a Little Black Dress
How to Accessorize a Little Black Dress
Accessories for a Little Black Dress
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
An essential in every woman's wardrobe, the little black dress is a stylish choice for many occasions. If you are wearing your little black dress to a cocktail party or evening event, these accessories will finish off your look perfectly.
Drop Earrings
You don't have to spend a fortune to look stylish and chic. These Eliot Danori earrings feature vintage-inspired Swarovski crystals for an elegant yet affordable appeal. These earrings are just $40.
Tennis Bracelet
A diamond tennis bracelet is a classic choice with a little black dress. It's sophisticated and classy. You don't need to splurge on diamonds. Sparkling cubic zirconia or other diamond alternatives are almost as good as the real deal.
Metallic Evening Bag
A small metallic evening clutch is a great complement to a little black dress. Metallic fabrics will add just a touch of shine for evening. Bags with sequins, beads and other embellishments are also terrific options.
Slingback Pumps
Select a pair of slingback pumps with a 2 1/2 to 3 1/2-inch heel to complement your little black dress. Black pumps are the obvious choice but silver is also a favorite. If you'd like a classic Audrey Hepburn style look, choose pumps with a round toe.
Dramatic Wrap
When it's chilly outside, add a wrap instead of an overcoat. You can choose from sheer silk wraps, fur-lined options, or something a little more dramatic like this leopard wrap from Harlequin Feltworks.
MY THOUGHTS
thing is, i do not have a little black dress. i have maybe a couple of black dresses. they are certainly not little. no problem with drop earrings and metallic evening bag. can't remember what happened to the tennis bracelet. i think i threw it in the face of the &*#$ who gave it to me. i've come to hate pumps and i certainly don't like wraps. dramatic or not. in other words, my lifestyle has changed so much the past years, i have no need to accessorize the little black because i don't have the need for it.
Accessories for a Little Black Dress
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
An essential in every woman's wardrobe, the little black dress is a stylish choice for many occasions. If you are wearing your little black dress to a cocktail party or evening event, these accessories will finish off your look perfectly.
Drop Earrings
You don't have to spend a fortune to look stylish and chic. These Eliot Danori earrings feature vintage-inspired Swarovski crystals for an elegant yet affordable appeal. These earrings are just $40.
Tennis Bracelet
A diamond tennis bracelet is a classic choice with a little black dress. It's sophisticated and classy. You don't need to splurge on diamonds. Sparkling cubic zirconia or other diamond alternatives are almost as good as the real deal.
Metallic Evening Bag
A small metallic evening clutch is a great complement to a little black dress. Metallic fabrics will add just a touch of shine for evening. Bags with sequins, beads and other embellishments are also terrific options.
Slingback Pumps
Select a pair of slingback pumps with a 2 1/2 to 3 1/2-inch heel to complement your little black dress. Black pumps are the obvious choice but silver is also a favorite. If you'd like a classic Audrey Hepburn style look, choose pumps with a round toe.
Dramatic Wrap
When it's chilly outside, add a wrap instead of an overcoat. You can choose from sheer silk wraps, fur-lined options, or something a little more dramatic like this leopard wrap from Harlequin Feltworks.
MY THOUGHTS
thing is, i do not have a little black dress. i have maybe a couple of black dresses. they are certainly not little. no problem with drop earrings and metallic evening bag. can't remember what happened to the tennis bracelet. i think i threw it in the face of the &*#$ who gave it to me. i've come to hate pumps and i certainly don't like wraps. dramatic or not. in other words, my lifestyle has changed so much the past years, i have no need to accessorize the little black because i don't have the need for it.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Must-Have Handbag Styles
Must-Have Handbag Styles
8 Purses Every Woman Should Own
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
Handbags come in all shapes, styles, colors and fabrics. When building your handbag collection, be sure to look for these essential styles. These different types of handbags are defined by their shape as well as how they are carried (handheld, over the shoulder, crossbody, etc.). Check out these must-have purses that every woman should own.
Office Handbag
Your handbag for the office should be well-constructed and not too flashy. It should be medium to large sized--big enough to carry your essentials but not much more. It should have organizational pockets inside and out for easy access and convenience. A neutral color is the best in smooth or patent leather. Leather satchels, bowlers, shoulder bags and totes are ideal. This B. Makowsky leather bag is just perfect. This handbag is priced at $368 from Nordstrom
Weekend Bag
A roomy weekend handbag is a must. Select a tote bag, shopper, oversized hobo or large satchel. This should be the biggest bag that you own but it shouldn't so enormous that it overwhelms your body. It should be large enough to hold a simple change of clothes and your toiletries. This bag should have both interior and exterior pockets for convenience. Play with color, textures and prints. This bag should be durable--you never know where the weekend might take you.
This extra large convertible satchel from Juicy Couture is a fantastic option. With its adjustable strap, you can convert it into a crossbody bag. At 21 inches wide, it will hold everything you need. This bag is available at Nordstrom (Buy Direct) in three colors, priced at $228.
Everyday Satchel
This should be your go-to handbag for everything from dinner with your parents to a daytime date. A satchel has short handles and the top can have a zipper, snap, drawstring or buckle closure. Your everyday satchel should be medium-sized with high-quality construction. You can experiment with fun colors and patterns, but realize that you are looking for something that will work well with most of your wardrobe. The domed satchel is a popular shape right now. If you want to splurge on a designer bag, the Chloe Astoria (pictured here in pollen yellow buffalo leather) is a classy option. You can order this satchel from Neiman Marcus (Visit Their Website) and other top department stores and boutiques.
Casual Shopper
This versatile purse is perfect for shopping trips. It should be fairly large and definitely roomy. Instead of leather, pick a shopper in canvas or cotton to make it light and easy to carry. This soft body bag needs to be durable enough to get enough to get knocked around. This coated canvas shopper from Dooney & Bourke is a fun choice with its cheerful duck print. Get it now at Nordstrom for $195
Slouchy Hobo
The hobo comes in all sizes from small to oversized. If you only have one hobo, make it medium to large in a slouchy rather than structured style. Hobos are recognized by their distinct crescent shape. They come in leather, suede and just about every other fabric. For spring and summer, pick up a colorful bag like this Tarnish printed cotton hobo. This handbag is priced at only $68 at Nordstrom
MY THOUGHTS
second to shoes, i have a thing for bags, too. until i openedmy closet one day and all the bags fell on me. they didn't hurt one bit. but i realized i had too many bags. i stopped buying. but then, friends and family know i love them. so, i get them as gifts. 2-4 new bags a year is certainly better than 1 new bag a month. guess what? with all the bags i've amassed i can;t find that perfect weekend bag. it's always smaller or bigger. maybe i should change my packing habits, too.
8 Purses Every Woman Should Own
From Kori Ellis, former About.com Guide
Handbags come in all shapes, styles, colors and fabrics. When building your handbag collection, be sure to look for these essential styles. These different types of handbags are defined by their shape as well as how they are carried (handheld, over the shoulder, crossbody, etc.). Check out these must-have purses that every woman should own.
Office Handbag
Your handbag for the office should be well-constructed and not too flashy. It should be medium to large sized--big enough to carry your essentials but not much more. It should have organizational pockets inside and out for easy access and convenience. A neutral color is the best in smooth or patent leather. Leather satchels, bowlers, shoulder bags and totes are ideal. This B. Makowsky leather bag is just perfect. This handbag is priced at $368 from Nordstrom
Weekend Bag
A roomy weekend handbag is a must. Select a tote bag, shopper, oversized hobo or large satchel. This should be the biggest bag that you own but it shouldn't so enormous that it overwhelms your body. It should be large enough to hold a simple change of clothes and your toiletries. This bag should have both interior and exterior pockets for convenience. Play with color, textures and prints. This bag should be durable--you never know where the weekend might take you.
This extra large convertible satchel from Juicy Couture is a fantastic option. With its adjustable strap, you can convert it into a crossbody bag. At 21 inches wide, it will hold everything you need. This bag is available at Nordstrom (Buy Direct) in three colors, priced at $228.
Everyday Satchel
This should be your go-to handbag for everything from dinner with your parents to a daytime date. A satchel has short handles and the top can have a zipper, snap, drawstring or buckle closure. Your everyday satchel should be medium-sized with high-quality construction. You can experiment with fun colors and patterns, but realize that you are looking for something that will work well with most of your wardrobe. The domed satchel is a popular shape right now. If you want to splurge on a designer bag, the Chloe Astoria (pictured here in pollen yellow buffalo leather) is a classy option. You can order this satchel from Neiman Marcus (Visit Their Website) and other top department stores and boutiques.
Casual Shopper
This versatile purse is perfect for shopping trips. It should be fairly large and definitely roomy. Instead of leather, pick a shopper in canvas or cotton to make it light and easy to carry. This soft body bag needs to be durable enough to get enough to get knocked around. This coated canvas shopper from Dooney & Bourke is a fun choice with its cheerful duck print. Get it now at Nordstrom for $195
Slouchy Hobo
The hobo comes in all sizes from small to oversized. If you only have one hobo, make it medium to large in a slouchy rather than structured style. Hobos are recognized by their distinct crescent shape. They come in leather, suede and just about every other fabric. For spring and summer, pick up a colorful bag like this Tarnish printed cotton hobo. This handbag is priced at only $68 at Nordstrom
MY THOUGHTS
second to shoes, i have a thing for bags, too. until i openedmy closet one day and all the bags fell on me. they didn't hurt one bit. but i realized i had too many bags. i stopped buying. but then, friends and family know i love them. so, i get them as gifts. 2-4 new bags a year is certainly better than 1 new bag a month. guess what? with all the bags i've amassed i can;t find that perfect weekend bag. it's always smaller or bigger. maybe i should change my packing habits, too.
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