Attitude in a bag!

By Rukshana Rizwie
A handbag is an essential item for all women, but it is becoming more difficult for us to choose the right one because of the number of different styles and shapes now available. A woman’s wardrobe is not complete without handbags! So it is important that when you are selecting a new handbag, you look for one that suits your body type.
SOUL met up with Kaushalya Perera, Deputy General Manager of Brands at Samson Group, (who spear-heads The Origin) to discuss the latest trends and fads of the ever-changing handbag industry.
“Bright-coloured handbags make a strong statement nowadays. Big bold prints, and sequins on prints are all ‘in’,” she said. “What is best about The Origin is that, unlike many other stores around town, you could buy a handbag and shoes to match from the same shelf!”
That said, lets get down to the nitty gritty of what you should know when buying a handbag.
Shall we get started?
First things first:
A handbag can make the difference between fab and drab! The right one can brighten your outfit and the wrong one can make even the hottest ensemble look rather like plain Jane.

= Consider body type

A handbag that will suit you best is one that is the opposite shape of your body shape. If you are petite and curvy, get one that’s long and slim. The contrast provides a balance to your overall look. If you get one that’s the same as your body, the focus will be on your problem areas. Big parts = big, and small parts = small. Rather undesirable! And the other thing to note is that, where the bag meets the body is where the eyes of the observer will be drawn to . . . Something for you to ponder on.

= How trendy is it? How long will it last on the style scale?

Some handbags come in style when you see them on TV, and the next minute you buy them, they are no longer the talk of the town! Others stick around and become classics. While it’s great to keep up with trends, your wardrobe should have at least a two or three timeless pieces. Another tip is that you can easily convert a classic to something chic, by tying a small bright coloured shawl to it or something like that.

= How comfortable and practical will it be?

A real fashionista not only looks ‘drop-dead gorgeous’ but comfortable too, and that enables her to carry herself well. You need to be relaxed. If your handbag or shoes cause you discomfort, no matter how good it makes you look, you are in reality trying too hard to be stylish and that’s a fashion faux pas! So, the next time you purchase a handbag, pay attention to material, texture, size, dimension, and other important details.
= Will all my things fit in it? How much space have I got?
If your handbag is about to burst when you put your stuff in, move to a bigger size! There truly are many big bags that are not just spacious, but beautiful as well. A handbag may have a pretty design, but if it loses its shape because of its contents, it loses its appeal. Think about it.
= Will I become bankrupt with this new purchase?
Not everyone can afford Louis Vuitton or Gucci, but everyone can have a stylish handbag without blowing the budget. Just have a bit of patience and look around. You never know what you will bump into.