A Grab Bag of Color

By Alisa Welch
September 22, 2008

In these uncertain times, a colorful handbag is just what we need to increase consumer confidence.

I think we can all admit that world seems a tad dismal right now.  Banks are tanking, wars are raging, politicians are mud slinging… With so much bad news, it’s enough to make a girl pull out her mourning clothes. But don’t despair, bag designers seem intent on raising the national mood with a rainbow of jewel-toned colors to brighten these gloomy days.

Marc Jacobs’ Ostrich Stam satchel in blue violet is a testament to capitalism that can be yours for a cool $5,500. Utilizing a super hot purple hue coupled with shiny silvertone hardware, this bag is the ultimate in luxury in an age when fashion is the only reliable investment. 

Other expensive and highly structured bags, the kinds favored by ladies who lunch, are all the rage now, especially done in bright patent leather and chunky metal hardware. Dooney & Bourke’s Hayden bag has just the right amount of class and price tag for a luncher-in-training. I’m also in love with Anya Hindmarch’s calf leather bag with its gold touches and shiny emerald green front flap. 

Thankfully it’s not just the big spenders who can enjoy the colors of the season.  For a punch of color and practicality, Steve Madden’s BMidtown Plum Paris oversized tote in shiny patent leather carries a fashion punch (and a laptop as well). For an every day bag, Tylie Malibu’s Utility Bag in bright fuschia has tons going for it: soft suede, crystal and metal stud details and a slouchy rock ‘n roll attitude.

For the evening, Donatella Lucchi’s super-sized take on the traditional coin purse would refresh a classic little black dress and comes in five gorgeous colors. Gusto’s sunny yellow Vezzi clutch wristlet could certainly liven up an otherwise dreary evening on the town.

If I had to choose one bag to put a happy face on the world right now, I’d nominate Sonia by Sonia Rykiel’s woven Face tote in knitted wool. This incredibly sweet tote could turn the world on with its smile, or at least make it grin and bear it.




If you want more fashion week coverage, or need a quick recap in case you missed it, click here for a slideshow of the top 20 looks inspired by Fashion Week 2009.

BMidtown Plum Paris Handbag ($98.00)

This large tote is perfect for the city girl on the go, large enough to fit all of you needs from the office to a night out on the town. Bag features three separate zipper compartments, and multiple inside pockets.