Have you heard? Ladylike fashion has returned to the runway, radiating timeless elegance in the form of polished handbags, clean cuts, and pristine finishes. Logo heavy cross body bags have been left behind and replaced with something more refined. A palate cleanser for gluttonous wardrobes and maximalist logomania, the return of the ladylike handbags has been a breath of fresh air for all bag lovers.
Think clean lines, muted colour palettes, smooth leather – the sort of thing Kate Middleton might wear. Reimagined in a variety of silhouettes, we can’t seem to get enough of this Bourgeois style. While the dainty top handle promises delicate elegance, larger tote bags marry fashion and functionality. Scandi cool girls have led the comeback of the clutch, while all of the above have been trimmed with a variety of shining chain straps.
Although classy bags work harmoniously with more modest aesthetics, these timeless designs are also great for offsetting. Adding a feminine twist, ladylike bags can dress up oversized looks, or balance something more androgynous. To give you the lowdown on grown up glamour, here are our top ten ladylike styles.
Top Handle Bags
If the top handle style has taken your fancy, keep it simple with a neutral colour palette and structured silhouette. Although the adorable size won’t fit your laptop, this essential shape will exude feminine elegance everywhere you go.
Cute and quirky, Kate Spade injects classic luxury with a bit of fun. Born out of the namesake designer’s quest for a practical bag that wasn’t hideous, the designs are loved for their cute top handle and playful colourways.
Go mad for gingham with the ‘Remedy’ top handle bag. Originally inspired by medical bags, the style maintains the convenient hinged frame but experiments with colour. The all-over monochrome print is warmed up with delightful mint detailing and decorated with delicate green flowers.
Surely, Aspinal of London takes the crown for the most ladylike label? Handmade in England, the quintessentially British brand has even supplied the royal household with leather bags. This sleek silhouette is hand crafted from Italian leather and croc embossed for a luxurious finish.
Chain Straps
If you want to infuse this ladylike conservatism with a more modern edge, a cool chain strap can tap into your more rebellious side. A bag you can wear with anything, to anywhere, this all-purpose silhouette is best in a muted colourway (and easier to style). It’ll look just as good with a T-shirt and jeans as it will with a day dress and boots.
Both chic and convenient, Coach’s ‘Parker’ bag is the fairest of them all. The pearly palette and gold tone hardware emanate elegance, while the organised interior, external slip pocket and adjustable crossbody strap mean you don’t have to compromise on comfort.
Simple and surprisingly spacious, this bag will fit all the lip glosses you could need while maintaining a sophisticated exterior. Crafted from classic black leather, the clean style is updated with a plaited chain strap. Ideal for those who want a bag that goes with everything, without being boring.
Marc Jacobs puts the Midas touch on the classic camera bag in this design. Lovingly named after iconic ‘90s supermodel, Naomi Campbell, the bag is just as bold and beautiful.
Clutch Bags
Finding the perfect balance between minimalism and glamour, the clutch creates a clean look. Don’t be fooled by the grandeur, this bag isn’t just for formal wear. Elevating the everyday, this versatile design can put a twist on ordinary attire or spice up a sleek slip.
A purse, a pouch, a clutch – this versatile shape is just as good for a day out as it is for a formal dinner. No need to worry about what to do with your hands, this bag can be tucked under the shoulder or held in the palm. Crafted from Italian calf leather, croc embossed for a more modern touch.
Unique in shape, the ‘Saki’ clutch boasts a showstopping silhouette. Making a statement in white leather, the bag is layered with texture and dimension. Carry as a clutch or attach the slender chain strap to go hands free.
Tote Bags
Finally, the trusty tote will hold everything you need while gleaming with a sense of effortless elegance. Throw the battered backpack aside, this fuss-free bag is just as useful and twice as stylish. A silhouette that every woman should own, the tote is great for those grab-and-go days when you want a bag full of all the things you (probably won’t) need.
Textured black leather. Slender straps. Simple silhouette. Crafted in Italy. Could you get any more classic? If you want to ooze sophistication but don’t want to compromise on size – this is the bag for you.
Stylish? Check. Practical? Check. Timeless? Check. Flaunting Coach’s signature monogram in coated canvas, this tote can fit a 13" laptop as well as your wallet, makeup bag and a change of shoes.
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Written by Gigi Gordon
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