Hello everyone,
Everyone always talks about capsule wardrobes, which if you don’t know are a limited selection of interchangeable clothing pieces that complement each other. In other words, it is a core selection of pieces that you can pick from for any occasion. If built correctly, you will never be left with no idea of what to wear. A capsule wardrobe promotes sustainability in fashion and staying away from trends. Everyone always talks about a capsule wardrobe in terms of clothing, but today I want to talk about it in terms of handbags.
I am a handbag lover at heart and over the years I have owned and tried out many handbags in terms of style and brand. I think that to create a capsule bag collection that is comprised of bags you would need for any occasion you must have a tote, shoulder bag, handheld bag, crossbody bag, backpack and belt bag. This post is going to outline the best of the best for each category. I believe that bags are the one thing in your capsule wardrobe that you can have more fun with and these pieces reflect that. I own each of these bags myself, therefore they are my highest recommendation. Links are provided below as well.
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The Tote
Marc Jacobs ‘The Tote Bag’ in Large
I own this tote bag in the mini size and have since tried a large size as well. I would highly recommend this size for travel, school, work and any other events where you have a lot to lug around. This tote comes in many colours and fabrics but I think black is the most timeless and classic. Part of a capsule wardrobe is that all pieces can easily work together; as we all know, black goes with everything. The design of the tote itself is a cooler take on any other tote out there, elevating your otherwise basic capsule wardrobe look.
The Shoulder
I love this bag and the Staud brand, in general, because it is understated chic. Staud is an “if you know, you know the brand” and therefore does not flash logos in anyone’s face. Due to this, it is the perfect capsule wardrobe item in that it is timeless and simple, while at the same time having a silhouette that is more laid back, cool and chic. I own this bag in black myself, and it has taken shape over time and has been one of my most worn bags. It is a staple in my wardrobe already as it can be worn with literally any outfit, dressed up or down and carried between seasons. If you are familiar with the new Bottega Veneta bag style that was just released, this bag holds much of the same features and shape. Minus the signature Bottega weave, Staud was ahead of the curve in the design of this bag to mimic the large fashion house.
The Handheld
By Far is another one of those understated designer brands that make a statement. Handheld bags are essential to a capsule bag collection as they act as the perfect evening bag. What I love about this one, in particular, is that it has a chain strap that can be worn on the shoulder. This chain element adds a cool factor and accessory to the bag while adding another layer of functionality. Having functionality within your capsule bag collection is also important. You want items that can be worn day to night no matter the occasion. I wear mine with the chain as a shoulder bag during the day then switch it to a handheld bag with the chain dangling for the night. I love this yellow colour, particularly as it adds a pop to any outfit.
The Crossbody
The Coach Pillow Tabby 18 is one of Coach’s bestselling bags for a reason. It has been popular for so long it might as well be a classic. The Pillow Tabby comes in size 26 and 18. I have it in the 18 size and I believe it is the perfect crossbody for a capsule bag collection. This bag can be worn both as a crossbody or as a handheld bag with the removal of the strap. Once again it is a versatile item that can be taken across multiple occasions. I like to keep my crossbody bags small as I feel large crossbody bags look weird on the body. Keeping them small and compact makes all the difference to the look of your outfit. I love this Ivory colour as it takes me across multiple seasons. It looks great with pastels and bright colours in the spring/summer and with darker and neutral tones in the fall/winter. If you have been considering the Coach Pillow Tabby bag for a while consider this your sign.
The Backpack
Backpacks are useful for so many occasions. Some people find them hard to wear as they make them feel childish or too sporty. I think that the key to having a backpack in your capsule wardrobe is to have one that is small in size and leather so that you can dress it up. What I love about this Roots one in particular is that it is made of leather that wears and looks better over time. Its style can be used for athletic activities or used as the perfect accessory to your simple jeans and a white tee outfit. This backpack is my go-to in the spring and summer. It goes with so many of my outfits and holds everything I need for the day without being too big. It has both style and functionality.
The Belt
I think that everyone and their mother knows about the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. It is the one bag that I see every girl and guy wearing and for good reason. If you have not picked one up yet, it will be the best $39 you have ever spent. This addition to your capsule bag collection will mainly be for those moments where you need functionality more than anything else. Whether it is running errands, working out or attending a sporting event, this bag will be your go-to. It magically fits anything you need it to fit, is so comfortable to wear and comes in a million colours.
I hope this post has inspired you to put together your capsule bag wardrobe! Let me know if you have added any of these bags to your collection in the comments below.
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ALTG 