An Indie Handbag Guide

A girl can never have enough bags; whenever I think I’ve found THE perfect black bag, or the perfect tote, I find another that’s just as perfect. In my opinion, there is no more important accessory than a bag – it can make or break an outfit - and anyway, shouldn’t the vessel that holds your most important possessions, in fact BE a prized possession itself? I plan outfits around the bag I feel like carrying, and my greatest fear is that I will see someone else carrying MY bag. Um, hello, my name is Grechen, and I’m addicted to handbags.

Lucky for me (and now you) I know just how to fulfill my every handbag need and quick fix: I shop independent. And the only thing better than actually finding great independent handbag designers is sharing them with others – okay, well, not really better…more like a close second. Nevertheless, here are some of my favorite independent handbag designers online. I hope you’ll love them as much as I do – these ladies need our support (and dollars) to keep creating their unique designs.

Flame Purse by Mellifluous Couture



Why I love it: What’s not to love?? I’m always on the lookout for a bag that is fun, unique, and combines colors or patterns in an unexpected way. The Flame Purse is a perfect fusion of gold leather and lacey brocade with the addition of a vintage buckle to tie it all together.

Why you’ll love it: It combines the metallic trend with classic elements, so it will never go out of style. It’s fun and sexy, yet totally wearable – and not so expensive you can’t buy a pair of cute shoes to go with it.

What to wear it with: This bag would be equally gorgeous with your favorite LBD (little black dress) for a night out as with a great pair of jeans and comfy sweater. To bring the look together, be sure to match the bag with a pair of pointy heels and big gold hoops though, otherwise, you’ll lose the edge.

Pink Horses ‘el sloucho’ by Ryanbags



Why I love it: It’s not your typical pink, and for some reason I’m in love with the ‘horse’ trend this season - maybe it’s their energy. I love that the shape and strap allow you to sling the bag across your body or carry it hobo-style – depending on your mood.

Why you’ll love it: It’s a fun way to add a little color to your outfit. The pink will go with almost anything in your wardrobe and is the perfect bag for weekend running-around.

What to wear it with: You probably won’t want to wear it with your new suit, but this bag would be perfect with your weekend sweats or favorite jeans/hoody/pumas combo.

Flora Tote by aSusi



Why I love it: Sometimes you just want a good tote – either to carry with your purse or instead of. As practical as they are, basic canvas totes are boring in their simplicity, so I look for something with a little more detailing and some interesting colors/patterns.

Why you’ll love it: It’s the perfect size for holding work papers, a laptop, personal items, and even an extra pair of shoes. It will take you back and forth to work and then some – all while brightening up your outfit.

What to wear it with: Anything! This tote would be perfect for the casual work environment, or as your ‘shopping’ bag for weekend errands – so wear it with anything from jeans to khakis or a cute full skirt and gold ballet flats.

Salinas Wristlet by Lolo+Gretch



Why I love it: It combines two essential colors for spring, yellow and orange, but will go with almost anything. I have one of these and I use it whenever I need to ‘downsize.’

Why you’ll love it: A good clutch (or two) should be part of every girl’s wardrobe. It’s great for going out, when you only need to carry the essentials, and don’t want your bag to distract from your outfit. The wrist strap keeps it securely in your possession, and the colors are so fresh you’ll want to wear it with everything!

What to wear it with: The perfect clutch or evening bag should accentuate your outfit, not distract from it. Especially if you’ve spent a lot of time putting together the perfect ‘going out’ outfit, you want a clutch that will play easily off the colors you’ve chosen, but not compete with them. This clutch would be great with a pale yellow cami, some brown pants and cream-colored shoes, but it would also go with a great light orange dress over a pair of boot cut jeans.

Article by Grechen of Grechen's Closet.
Grechen is the founder and webmistress of Grechen’s Closet, an online fashion/style/shopping magazine with features such as a daily "Look What I Found," a comprehensive directory of where to buy designer and independent labels online, a list of more than 500 online boutiques, The DenimGuide to finding the perfect pair, Reviews of designer and independent clothes/accessories on real women, and lots more.

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