When traveling, packing multiple handbags just isn’t going to happen. You never want the bag to be too big or too small, too bulky, heavy, or cumbersome, and it has to go with all of your occasions and functions that the trip demands, which can be as varied as sightseeing to a cocktail party. It certainly can be anxiety inducing when trying to select THE perfect travel bag (that’s also stylish, mind you), however I’ve found that by selecting a bag in a neutral palette, somewhat of a structured shape and with strap options, there’s really no way to go wrong.
My bag du jour for traveling (and traipsing about town here in NYC) was tested out over the course of a long weekend in Chicago, and it certainly held its own amongst the work and family obligations, along with weather fluctuations, which also involved a spontaneous walk to Millennium Park and a stop at the rooftop bar/night club Vertigo Sky Lounge, atop the Dana Hotel.
The looks great sporty or dressy, with an option to add a shoulder strap for extra mobility. The clean mix of faux patent leather and Ikat-printed fabric give it a modern edge, while the top zip closure makes it safe for travel, and an easy access front pocket allows you to store the essentials: your room key, phone, and a lip gloss. It easily squished into one of my two carry-ons come time to go through security, and then resumed it’s shape in now time once I had reached my destination. If a structured tote isn’t your style, the gx by GWEN STEFANI line offers plenty of cool bags (and shoes too!) that could be, like the Numata camera bag shape or the Zushi bucket bag silhouette with whip stitch detailing.
See below for what looks the bag accompanied the past few days:
In this look:
Lucky Brand Boyfriend Jeans (courtesy of brand)
(courtesy of brand)
Silk Blouse via T.J.Maxx (courtesy of the retailer)
Vince Sweater via Shopbop (courtesy of the retailer)
Columbia Carson Pass™ II Jacket in Mineshaft (courtesy of the retailer)
Clark’s Black Booties (courtesy of the retailer)
DVF Sunglasses (courtesy of brand)
In this look:
Sorrelli Pyramid Stud Earrings (courtesy of brand)
Nocturne Necklace via Shopbop (courtesy of the retailer)
Lucky Brand Faux Snakeskin Belt (courtesy of brand)
Bucketfeet Lace up Sneakers (courtesy of brand)
Alexis Bittar Crystal Encrusted Draping Ring & Gorjana Stackable Rings via Shopbop (courtesy of the retailer)
In this look:
Sorrelli Lemon Zest Peared to Perfection Necklace
Athleta Andalè Pant (courtesy of the brand)
Henri Bendel Luxe Semi-Precious Bold Ring (courtesy of the retailer)