Whether it’s a reaction to the economy, a growing plague of back & neck pain or simply a natural response to extremely oversized handbags, every major designer is showing a mini bag this season. Sure, they have had little bags for evening, the cross-body last season, but the mini bag for day is the next great thing. Or to use an over-tired analogy, the mini-bag is the new “black”.
There are so many great offerings out there it’s hard to choose for an review. You can obviously find sparkly and satin ones for evening, but leather, nylon and pony hair are readily available in a host of colors choices. Strap lengths can be long enough for cross-body, shoulder length or short. The beauty of a short strap mini-bag is that it is small & lightweight enough to easily carry securely on your forearm still rendering you hands-free when necessary. The user must be more particular about what they stash in their mini. Small wallets or card holders, a lipstick and your phone is about all you will carrying.
Blending classic lady-like chic with a touch or rocker studs, the Valentino Rockstud Small Leather Mini Bag is featured in a beautifully sophisticated sand color perfect for resort through summer. The silver accents up the ante by appealing to those of us ladies who have a little bit of edge. This 8″ x 4 1/2″ x 2″ bag is loaded with pockets to increase its functionality. There is an outside open pocket, an inside zip pocket and four inside open pockets all secured by a flap with a silver tone turn-lock closure. All of these details come with a price of $1395, but I think you will find that it will be in your wardrobe for many years to come. Also available in black.
And let’s not forget the cute factor. Mini bags are so adorable especially when they have the details of their big “sister” like the Chloe Marcie Calfskin Mini Bag. Braided leather and topstitching on the flap opening provide ample detail for this beautifully made mini cross-body bag. An outside open pocket and an inside open pocket are available for organization. It’s 7″ x 7″ x by 3 1/2″ is generous by mini standards. Available in Ruby and Black, it’s $680.
Simple elegance with a bold rams head detail are all the Derek Lam Buffalo Rams Head Mini Bag requires to grab your attention. A stunning crisp white or rich black are available to complement your wardrobe this season. A 7″ x 5 1/2″ x 1 1/2″ size with completely open interior will require a small wallet to keep your items secure. A beautiful little bag for $590.
The Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Mini Bag is simply that….pretty. I am attracted to the print with black, white, red, pink and orange but I also love it in basic black and pink too! Featuring the signature Marc Jacobs topstitching and logo plate on the front and gold-tone chain strap. This little bag has one interior pocket and sells for $158! Buy the print and a basic black for complete versatility!
Check out Saks Fifth Avenue for these and more great mini bags!