Have you seen Gucci's fall collection? It is full of all sorts of 60's-inspired looks that are beyond fabulous. I love everything about it...except the price.
While I am a believer in investing in quality pieces that last a lifetime, I can't afford to spend $3200 on a dress. So I set out to recreate one of my favorite looks with a more wallet-friendly approach.
Can we talk about Gucci's Swing Leather Tote? I love it. Gucci has created the perfect bag for working women, students or über-moms who need to haul diapers, snacks, wipes and sippy cups yet still want to look stylish.
The medium version (the one I have) comes in a variety color options and measures 13.4"W x 12"H x 7"D with an 8.6" strap drop, similar in size to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM (or medium size). It features two interior pockets which can hold a cell phone, pens, notebook, etc. It also has an interior zipper pocket which Gucci says can "fit an iPad." It does. Sold.
The small version also features a variety of color options while measuring 10.6"W x 9.5"H x 6.3"D with an 8" strap drop, similar in size to the smaller Louis Vuitton Neverfull. This roomy bag can also hold a lot.
The Takeaway
At $1000 for the small and $1350 for the medium, these bags are investment pieces. I believe they are a better value than the Louis Vuitton Neverfull for two reasons: the generous interior pockets and the beautiful, supple leather construction. (Tweet this). The Neverfull is simply monogrammed canvas and starts at $1180 for the smallest version.
If you do invest in one of these, I feel it's a wise one. They are timeless classics you can carry for years. If you do tire of them, you can always consign or resell them and get a portion of your money back. My Louis Vuitton Neverfull practically paid for itself.
I know because I've searched for decades. Only recently have I found some quality options. I bring this up because the Wall Street Journalwrites about the conundrum working women facewhen schlepping around their work items, along with their personal stuff in a solid bag that is functional yet stylish.
The woman profiled, Silicon Valley executive Kim DeCarlis, seems quite the practical professional carrying a medicine kit, eye mask and ear plugs in her surprisingly fun Johnston & Murphy computer bag.
I jaunt across North Texas from sports facilities to my story shoots to Mother's Day Out carpool lines. I have a bag that goes everywhere and carries everything: my Gucci Soho Shoulder Bag.
It comes in a variety of colors. The metallic color is chic and versatile, too. I call it a Kitchen Sink Bag because it would truly hold that and more while still being stylish enough to take someplace fun and not scream "WORKING MOTHER WITH A SIPPY CUP IN BAG!" Candidly, I think if it came between the husband and the bag, the bag would win.
I am also in love with the Sophie Hulme Leather Tote. It's professional, structured and holds my iPad, notebooks, cell phone makeup and jumbo bottle of hairspray. I get more compliments on this bag than any I have ever carried. Both men and women comment on it. It also comes in tan and burgundy. Just gorgeous.
Quality Work Bags Under $400
Both of those purses are investments but I will use them for years to come. Here are some stylish options for under $400. Still some major bucks, yes, but for something you will use daily, this is money well-spent.
