TRENDS

by Jen Labbett.

Purple Handbags Dominating Fashion’s Limelight

Ask anyone who knows me what my favourite colour is. I guarantee you that I’m probably one of the few 45-year-old women where a majority of people who know me (they don’t even need to know me that well) know what my favourite colour is.  When I write that down, I suppose that’s a pretty silly characteristic to be known for but, as I often say, at least it makes me easy to shop for and of the many descriptors that have been bestowed upon me throughout my lifetime, being a purple (handbag) girl has never felt anything other than befitting and something I’ve embraced with arms wide open.

You can imagine my delight by the resurgence of purple in the recent past fuelled by the eponymous movie The Colour Purple and the newly-thin Oprah Winfrey’s PR machine paving the way for purple prowess in 2023 and well into this calendar year.  From Emily Blunt to Lady Gaga, the red carpet was stained with all manner of the colour most dear to my heart: lilac, orchid, deep violet, tyrian, plum, mulberry, amethyst (oh dear amethyst!), indigo, magenta, grape, fuchsia…the list goes on.

The stars spun around in all their glory, showcasing bags as utterly fabulous as the Dior Saddle Bag in Mulberry, with its ultra-smooth calfskin and legendary saddle/stirrup strap design, this bag adorned the biggest stars as the cameras flashed over and over and TMZ tried to grab them for an interview to ask, “So who are you wearing?”

But if a lead actress really wanted to steal the show, what better way to do that than pair an on trend cut-out silhouette gown in satin or chiffon or, as Ye’s wife prefers, barely bloody there with a pair of the most spell-binding Christian Louboutin extra RED high-heels and the Christian Louboutin Loubi54 Clutch in Parme, gold logo shining on the red carpet, paying homage to the world renowned trademark red soles of its familial shoes.  But purple isn’t just thriving on the red carpet for a stylist to take all the credit.

I lived in Los Angeles for a long time and while I wouldn’t really consider myself a starstruck stalker kind of gal, the purple girl in me would definitely turn around and follow anyone I pass on Beverly Blvd wearing the Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Crossbody Mini Bag.  Talk about being photogenic!  This incredible mini comes in sheer amethyst lilac (I told you dear amethyst earlier!) in a Gleamy karung skin with primrose quartz pink nappa leather lining.

This bag is ultra-sumptuous with a captivating magnetic snakehead closure in light gold-plated brass, embellished with black & pearl pinkish lilac enamel scales and black onyx eyes.  You would be burned at the steak for not adoring this insane piece with the miniest of dresses and the highest of heels, making sure you get the part one way or another…just don’t leave your purpule handbag behind.

I could wax philosophical about the power of purple all day long, how it can be simple and direct – kind of like the Leather Mini Bag by Marc Jacobs in Wisteria, which boasts the most personality of any mini bag I’ve ever seen and a price point that makes you want to pick up a spare.  The beauty of purple is it won’t stay in one lane, it can be bold and high fashion like the Dolce & Gabbana Small Devotion top-handle bag in metallic purple or you can be classic & elevated traditional holding proud to the Aspinal of London Mini Mayfair Bag in Deep Shine English Lavender.

I know I’m going to be that 60-year-old woman who still dyes her hair purple and, with some luck, I will still be wearing the same amethyst engagement ring, but I will always be looking at ways to change up my handbag collection and there is no better colour to fill my closets with that the one closest to my heart.  See, you don’t even know me but you know what my favourite colour is.

Shades of Purple Handbags

Christian Louboutin Leather Clutch

Christian Louboutin

Loubi54 Clutch in Parme

An iconic Maison Christian Louboutin design, the Loubi54 clutch features sleek lines. This model is adorned with a CL monogram and crafted in smooth Parme Light lilac calf leather.  This bag is the epitome of class, it’s muted but gorgeous lilac colour will highlight your outfit and I see this bag sitting with me at the table in a central London restaurant and me sashaying to a swanky bathroom doing my makeup, as the bag is plenty roomy to keep enough touch up bits that my look will never be less than fabulous.

Dior Leather Saddle Bag

Dior

Saddle Purple Leather Strap Bag

While the price tells me that this bag should be under security at all times, the design and the lush colour say, “Take me out now!”  The unique design of this original Dior masterpiece gives tribute to horse lovers and really elevates the standard evening bag to a new level. Crafted in mulberry ultra-smooth calfskin, the legendary design features a Saddle flap with a D stirrup strap and magnetic pull, as well as an antique gold-finish metal CD signature adorned with tonal leather on either side of the handle. Equipped with a thin, adjustable and removable strap, the Saddle bag may be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder or crossbody.

Marc Jacobs Mini Leather Shoulder Bag

Marc Jacobs

The Mini Bag in Purple Leather

In an era of mini bags, this Marc Jacobs mini bag stands out not just because it’s got an amazingly affordable price tag, but the Wisteria colour is the jolt of pastel we all need.  Very much in line with the phrase “Mini bag, Major personality”, the Marc Jacobs mini bag is the ultimate mini bag to take with you to lunch or to lend its sense of fun and fancy to a club – perfectly dressing up that super cute mini dress you’ve been wanting to show off in.

This crossbody silhouette is inspired by Marc Jacob’s best-selling tote and is finished with the words “my other bag is the tote bag” embossed on the inside. Crafted in full grain leather, each bag is designed with the namesake branding and features one slip pocket and eight card slots. Carry it as a clutch or attach the adjustable, removable logo webbing strap for hands-free styling. This mini bag has big potential.

Aspinal Mini Leather Top Handle Bag

Aspinal of London

Midi Mayfair Lilac Top-Handle Bag

Ever the quintessential English brand, the Midi Mayfair bag in Lavender is a perfect addition to their iconic library.  The Mayfair offers refined vintage styling with a contemporary flair, perfect for transitioning from weekday meetings to evening events.  The compact top handle bag design features Aspinal’s recognisable signature shield lock which opens to unveil a luxurious grosgrain lining with a central zipped compartment and open pockets to either side.  Handcrafted from the finest full-grain leather, in faux-croc design, this bag is an instant classic and deserves to complement the finest of wardrobes.

Coach Backpack

Coach

Hall Lilac Backpack

Coach is the purveyor of much purple magic in my life, from full coloured bags to cheeky lavender accents on zippers or charms, Coach has got their careful and sophisticated use of my favourite colour down to a tee.  One of the bags that I use the most in my day-to-day life is my backpack and in curating this collection, I came across this season’s backpack from Coach and, knowing full well I will be buying it (and I don’t get freebies), I would be remiss not to share it with you.

As I own many versions of this bag I can personally attest to their endurance, the quality with which they’re constructed and how they make you look trendy and stylish even when you’re rushing to a meeting with your laptop shoved hastily in your backpack. The backpack holds up to a 16” laptop, has great storage compartments and adjustable straps – mine goes with me wherever I go and one of them is going on ten years old with only a hint of day-to-day wear.  In purple, this backpack is a little bit of me (I mean a lot).

Ralph Lauren Polo ID Suede Shoulder Bag

Ralph Lauren

Polo ID Suede Small Shoulder Bag in Lavender

Ralph Lauren is one of those designers who possess an unbelievable talent for taking what would be a rather ordinary bag and making it something to behold.  The Polo ID Suede purple handbag is no exception to that and with its soft, supple suede exterior in a contemporary crescent shape lends itself to both daytime and evening occasions.  With no problem transitioning as a shoulder bag to a wristlet, the Italian quality craftsmanship really shines through and is finished with a brass plaque showcasing the silhouette of the signature Pony cut.

Dolce & Gabbana Small Metallic Top Handle

Dolce & Gabbana

Purple Small Devotion Bag

There is absolutely nothing subtle about this bag – in true D&G style, even though it’s small, the Devotion bag in purple isn’t a wallflower of a bag and certainly isn’t made to be held on the sidelines.  This bag belongs with the prom queen, and it deserves to be worshipped.  Boldly crafted in Grained nappa lambskin top handle bag, shining in metallic purple tone, the Devotion bag features big brassy signature logo hardware in rusted gold with rhinestones.

It can carry with the top handles or comes with a sturdy chain shoulder strap and, if I were carrying it, it would be housing a stun gun because this is the type of bag people want to get their hands on – NOT MY DEVOTION!  There’s nothing ordinary about this bag, I can hear Dolce yelling at Kim, “if I open the flap top and inside there’s plenty of room for a gorgeous scent to accompany my stun gun.”  Handle with care – carrying this bag is like having a spotlight on you.

Purple Handbag FAQs (From Someone Who Owns Far Too Many)

Can you wear a purple handbag with anything?
Yes, and no. Lilacs and lavenders behave like neutrals — they’ll sit beautifully next to beige, grey, navy, and even chocolate brown. Deep plums and rich violets, on the other hand, want to be noticed. Treat them as a feature, not a background player.

Is purple too ‘loud’ for everyday wear?
Absolutely not. Purple can be loud, yes — but it can also whisper. A soft suede lavender crossbody is just as wearable as your go-to black tote. The difference? Yours will actually get compliments.

What colours clash with purple?
Anything neon. Also, avoid mixing too many saturated jewel tones unless you’re auditioning for Euphoria. If you’re unsure, anchor the look with monochrome clothing and let the bag speak.

What’s the best way to style a statement purple bag?
Keep your outfit clean and minimal — then let the bag do the talking. White blouse, denim, blazer. Job done. Or for an evening look, lean into texture: satin, leather, or velvet paired with your punchy purple and a confident heel.

Are purple handbags a trend or here to stay?
They’ve been in and out for decades, but right now? They’re having a major fashion moment. That said, if you love it — it’s always in style. I’ve been carrying purple for twenty years and I’m only just getting started.

by Jen Labbett.

Which Blue Bag is Perfect for You?

Blue is a transitional colour – it can symbolise so many things, but often it’s connected with sadness and sappy music. As we (finally) move towards spring, I’m far from singing the blues so it’s time to flip the switch and only be thinking of blue in terms of skies and the feeling of tranquillity you get when staring at the endless horizon of a deeply blue sea.

I don’t know about you but in spite of homegrown weather that has left a lot to be desired, I’ve been on holiday in my head for weeks now and with that kind of daydreaming naturally comes some internal window shopping.  So that’s what I’m looking for when I start to do some more serious window shopping for the perfect blue handbag.  Because, let’s face it, nothing brings out the best in a summer dress like a cerulean handbag that holds nothing but some sunscreen and lip balm because that’s all you’re going to need.

Shades of Blue

Nothing exudes this kind of summer dress, sandals and no unnecessary items feel than the Smythson Envelope Purse in Panama in Nile Blue.  This bag has got you covered with admirably organised card holders embedded in the bag for up to six cards, keeping everything placed just where you want it and on the ready to pay for the perfect beachside cocktail.  With a removable crossbody strap in cross grain calf leather, this is my handbag of choice for daytime wear in the South of France. I can see this pairing equally well with white capris or a maxi dress as I dine on oysters and a glass of Whispering Angel.

While I’m all for relaxing holidays, there’s nothing like hitting a club and while away from home there is literally no other bag I would want to tear up the tiles with than the Alexander McQueen Peak Small Bag in Lapis Blue.  Even the colour of the bag, let alone the detail of the iconic McQueen design with silver-tone hardware, screams cocktails at midnight and DJs pumping out house music well into the wee hours.  This bag’s careful craftsmanship and bold blue colour will compliment the tiniest of dresses and might even convince me to get into a pair of stilettos for the sake of fashion, if only to highlight how amazing I’d feel carrying this piece.

My imaginary holiday is really taking shape. I’ve covered my minimalist needs and my evening glam, but there’s always room for a handbag that is going to give me a little more versatility.  Keeping the possibilities of blue at the forefront, my mind wanders to how refreshing the colour is and that it can still make a statement without being so in-your-face bold.  I’ve been known to opt for a more subtle pastel outfit or even a neutral look and this is where blue can really come into its own, providing a sophisticated way to make a statement.  One of the best examples of this is the Logo Grainy Alter Mat Crossbody Bag by Stella McCartney.

With ample storage room and McCartney’s signature vegan leather, the muted sky blue of this handbag compliments my tamer daywear and provides me with the style and sensibility that Stella is known for.  With the perforated McCartney logo proudly stamped on the side, it almost looks like the bag is breathing, even when it’s bursting from the seams with beach reading material, sunscreen and a hat to keep me safe from the sun’s harsh rays.

Blue handbags effortlessly evoke the carefree and relaxed vibes of coastal living. Reminiscent of clear blue skies, sparkling ocean waves and sandy beaches, carrying a blue handbag instantly transports you to a seaside getaway. However, it would be wrong for me to think about blue and completely ignore one of the materials associated with blue that has stood the test of time – yes, denim – and we aren’t talking about farm wear or what you throw on to hang out the laundry anymore.

If you want an example of a seriously stylish and unique handbag that is crafted from the very highest quality denim, the Valentino Garavani Rockstud Spike denim crossbody bag is a swanky little number that is made for gratuitous holiday spam pics.  Metal pyramid studs and a slim chain lend a lick of punk inspiration to the Rockstud Spike crossbody bag – perfectly embodying the fashion house’s masterful blend of Italian elegance and contemporary detailing, this bag was made for the boardwalk as much as it was for the catwalk.

Whether you’re joining me in my daydreams of the South of France, or you’ve already got your flights booked for your next summer break, blue offers an exciting alternative to the bold and vibrant colours that summer is often associated with. Blue handbags seamlessly complement some of the hottest fashion trends of the summer season, from nautical-inspired stripes to bohemian floral prints, blue handbags effortlessly bring a sophisticated addition to all your summer fashion staples. So here’s wishing you a very blue bon voyage!

My Curated Blue Handbag Collection

Michael Kors Top Handle Bag

Michael Kors

Ruthie Small Blue Leather Top Handle Bag

A smaller version of the traditional MK Ruthie satchel, this bag features an effortlessly chic design that is structured and relies on gold-tone hardware to give it a little pizazz.  This bag is definitely one that can be used for everyday lunching with the ladies or adding to a great casual night out look, it’s got plenty of space for essentials and at £270, the price point means you can buy this little number in navy blue and have plenty of spending money left over for an evening out.

Smythson Purse

Smythson

Blue Envelope Purse

This compact handbag in Nile Blue is my purse of choice for daytime holiday wear.  It’s got great little compartments built in for your credit cards and, I don’t know about you, but I tend to be a little forgetful when I’m away so the organisation that this little bag provides is a real game changer. Subtly stylish, this is a crossbody bag crafted in smooth calf leather and fully lined.  I think this is a great price point for a bag that can be taken on holiday but also used as a daily go-to at home.

Aspinal Midi London Leather Tote

Aspinal of London

Midi London Blue Leather Tote

Aspinal of London is known for its traditional designs and this great little tote is a fantastic addition to the collection.  In Cornflower Blue Pebble, this handbag is simple and understated, a versatile everyday companion that will hold more than everyday essentials and is made from the finest full grain leather.  Sweetly accented with Aspinal’s signature A and Bee charms, this must-have leather tote-bag can be carried by the soft top handles or worn cross-body using the detachable soft leather strap, which can be personalised with initials or a name.

Jacquemus Denim Top Handle

Jacquemus

Le Chiquito Blue Denim Top Handle Bag

Another fantastic entry in denim from Jacquemus, Le Chiquito Denim is a functional bag with high design features and can easily be used during the day or to compliment a night out.  I love the thick buttoned rolled top handle, which is also a detachable adjustable shoulder strap for extra choice in how you wear the piece.  A good size, structured bag, La Chiquito Denim is crafted from 100% cotton and 100% leather, as well as a really good price point from this pivotal design house.

Stella McCartney Crossbody Bag

Stella McCartney

Logo Blue Crossbody Bag

Definitely a top contender for my personal blue bag of the year award, the Logo Crossbody Bag from Stella McCartney in muted sky blue has all the features you’d expect from this designer including being crafted from Alter Mat, the house’s vegan leather alternative.  While remaining compact, this bag has ample storage room and, for me, it can be used as a day bag but also be paired well with jeans or a pair of linen trousers for an evening out.

Mulberry Leather Top Handle Bag

Mulberry

Small Lana Light Blue Leather Bag

This bag has all the hallmarks we’d expect from Mulberry and a classic design in Poplin Blue High Gloss Leather. The ultimate in day-to-night dressing, the Small Lana Top Handle is characterised by its sleek silhouette and structured upright handle. This elegant style showcases Mulberry’s new statement hardware, the Foundry Lock – a contemporary, Daliesque twist on the iconic Postman’s Lock.

Ferragamo Leather Tote

Ferragamo

Charming Blue Leather Tote

This fantastic hold all in Midnight Blue has been crafted in the finest calfskin and made in Italy by Ferragamo.  It’s part of the Charming collection and a great addition to any woman’s collection.  I would choose this tote for business wear and with plenty of room for my ipad, I can see it quickly becoming a bag of choice for my daily use. The rounded silhouette is emphasised by the stitching on the dials, while the reinforced bottom ensures durability. Lined with suede, the interior features a detachable pouch and a leather lace fastening.

Alexander McQueen Leather Shoulder Bag

Alexander McQueen

Peak Bag Small Leather Shoulder Bag

Ever stylish and iconic, this bold addition from Alexander McQueen is the Peak Bag Small in Lapis Blue. I absolutely love this bag – it’s trendy, cutting-edge design lends itself to late nights with cocktails in hand and the bold blue of the calfskin leather is a statement that will add a touch of high fashion to your look. The bag can be worn over the shoulder using its antique silver-finished chain strap or hand-held by the four-ring handle.

Valentino Garavani Denim Top Handle

Valentino

Rockstud Spike Blue Denim Crossbody Bag

There’s no doubt in my mind that the Rockstud Spike in Denim from Valentino Garavani is the height of fashion and, while the price point is a little painful, this handbag will stand the test of time.  If you want to be super trendy, this bag could be paired with jeans to create a truly unique double denim feel to your look and is definitely a statement piece that can be worn time and again.

Metal pyramid studs and a slim chain lend a lick of punk inspiration to the Rockstud Spike crossbody bag, perfectly embodying the fashion house’s masterful blend of Italian elegance and contemporary detailing. Crafted from cloud-soft cotton scattered in a constellation of crystals, it’s crowned with a mirrored turn-lock closure and defined by the chunky handle placed atop its body. Sling yours over one shoulder or carry it by hand, you decide. This bag is high on my wish list for 2024.

If you are looking for a new colour bag to add to your Autumn wardrobe, why not look at these brown handbags?