Women probably can’t have enough bags, next to shoes. These days, bags not only serve as receptacles for carrying one’s essentials, but also as fashion accessories to complete one’s ensemble.
From roomy tote bags to dainty clutches, bags are as versatile as the different roles women usually portray in life. Here, stylish women give the low-down on their favorite bags and their latest arm candy. Let’s just say, a women’s quest for the perfect bag should be taken seriously.
Amina Aranaz,
designer and entrepreneur,
My favorite type is a clutch, although I don’t get to use one too often. I find it liberating to not have to lug around your entire life! Being able to carry along only the basic essentials that would fit in a clutch is a luxury.
My current favorite is…
Givenchy, one of my go-to brands, because the bags are edgy and glamorous at the same time.
Divine Lee,
Luca partner and blogger
“I’m still a ‘big tote’ girl. I don’t even know how I manage to fill my bag with papers of all sorts, but I always end up doing so. My day bag is also my office bag so I need it spacey.”
My current favorite is…
Proenza Schouler’s PS1, as it’s so light and durable. It’s the best travel companion and it can go from day to night. I also like Chanel and LV for the classics and our Pinoy bag designers, from the local Cebu designers to the bigger names.
Ria Prieto, Inquirer Lifestyle columnist
I prefer structured shoulder bags since I like having my hands free, especially when I’m with the kids, and unlike the satchel, the strap doesn’t go across my body, which eventually creases my top.
My current favorite is…
My medium sized Proenza Schouler PS1. It’s light enough to carry around the whole day, and spacious enough for all my stuff to fit in. And I don’t see a lot of people carrying it around.
Agoo Bengzon, Summit Media beauty director
A shoulder bag. This type of bag is the most convenient and functional style to have for moms like me, since it allows me to be hands-free. I also like how it can easily go from dressy to casual. I can hang it over my shoulder for formal occasions, then sling it across my body for dressed-down occasions.
My current favorite is…
Givenchy, as its bags are the epitome of cool. I’ve been in love with the Givenchy Nightingale since its debut in 2006!
Bianca Gonzalez, celebrity
I just prefer regular medium-sized handbags where I can dump my stuff into, and carry from day to night, like the Croisière or the Muse.
My current favorite is…
The Givenchy Nightingale for men!
Pauline Suaco-Juan,
Preview magazine
editor in chief
I like Speedy as a type. Roomy handbags that you can carry on your shoulder or sling across the body.
My current favorite is…
Chloé’s Paraty. I also like LV’s Speedy, Celine’s Boston and Alexander Wang’s Coco.
Sarah Canlas, architect
Totes and satchels. Yay for big, roomy, soft bags. Nay for too structured, which limits what you can bring. I like throwing all my things in my bag and rummaging through it to find my phone or keys.
My current favorite is…Proenza Schouler
Andrea de Guzman-Mago,
teacher and lifestyle writer
“Most of the bags in my closet are big totes and top handles. I favor big, spacious and sturdy bags as I tend to bring my entire life with me wherever I go.”
My current favorite is…
The giant Givenchy Nightingale in sand, for both out-of-country travels and weekend lunch dates. It goes with my mostly muted wardrobe. I also love that it is easy to carry around. If I get tired, I use the shoulder straps. We all know how commuting around European cities can take its toll with the wrong bag around.
Reggie Aquino,
Stylebible.PH associate beauty editor
“Because I’m not one to pack lightly on a daily basis as my everyday bag is always a few pounds overweight, I find that satchels are the best middle ground between functionality and portability. I especially like those with an extra shoulder strap that allows you to either sling it over your shoulder or carry it by hand. It’s about finding a sturdy investment piece that can withstand wear and tear. One made with good quality leather never disappoints and never goes out of style.”
My current favorite is…
My black calfskin Chloé Paraty! It’s roomy on the inside without looking bulky on the outside. The unusual trapezoid shape and gold hardware make it much more than just your basic black bag. I’m also dying to have the mustard python PS1, multicolored python-print shopping tote or the striped canvas PS1 pouch.
All bags are available at Adora, 3/F, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City
