Color Me Trendy - Carolyn Tillman of CAROLYNmaking

Image via MATINE on Facebook

What is better than a handbag that is hand crafted, in a simple and classic silhouette but has a unique element to make it stand out from the rest?

Nothing. That’s right. Nothing is better than that. And it totally describes my approach to my wardrobe (minus the hand crafted part… although I have a few one-of-a-kind pieces).

So imagine my delight when I found Carolyn Tillman’s leather handbag and accessory line MATINE. Above is her new Proper Tote and I just DIE for the bow detail at the top of the handle.

MATINE is full of adorable leather accessories. Each piece features a bow detail, scalloped edges or ombre tinting. 

Needless to say her line of leather goodies is high on my "wanna get it" list. 

Oh, and the talented Miss Tillman doesn't stop there. She also has a line of home goods (Lucite desktop accessories, trays and mugs) available at TILLY | MAISON. Each tray is perfectly preppy and would be an excellent addition to your workspace.

Color Me Styled - A Style No-No

Why would anyone still resort to a fanny pack when god gave us the crossbody bag?

This is a rhetorical question. 
If you don't know the answer... we need to talk one on one. 

No one should use a fanny pack. Ever. There is no acceptable scenario or excuse unless you have some weight bearing disorder that means you can't carry a purse at all. But even then... don't wear a fanny pack. Just no. Never.

Okay, maybe if you are Carrie Bradshaw... but she isn't real and no one in real life has these abs. So the answer is still no.

And yes, Gucci typically has one available, but let's leave it for the men in the Meat Packing District of NYC.  Or for the Carrie's of the world (who don't exist). Basically, invest in a cross body bag. 

Plus, cross body bags give you more room for stuff, typically have satchel handles so you can also wear it on your arm and do not draw attention to your hips / butt / mid-section.

Here are a few of our favorites. 

What's in a Bag?

Talk about baggage?! Most ladies carry way too much with them on a daily basis. Today, we're going to look into what you need, what you don't and how to "Pack a Purse". 

First, a distinction should be made between your daily purse, weekend errand purse and going-out purse. 

The Daily Purse

The daily purse should be the biggest bag that you are OK to carry every day. Depending on your occupation or day-to-day activities the style of the bag is up to you. One editor needs to carry a lap-top so her bag is large enough to accommodate her computer. Another editor is in grad school so her bag has to haul books and notebooks on a daily basis. 

Function over fashion for your Daily Purse! 

Contents of the Daily Purse (as pictured above):
    1. Card Wallet - every lady should have one and it should hold your ID, Credit / Debit Card, Transit Pass, Grocery Store Club Cards and some cash
   2. Work badge, keys, business cards and pens
   3. Small wallets / pouches for further organization - one should hold "vital" info like insurance, AAA membership card, back-up credit card(s)
   4. Sunnies (one pair is necessary, two pair is being prepared anything over three pair is vanity)
   5. Make-up / lip treatments
   6. Safety First kit - bandaids, extra contacts, eye drops, meds and lady time supplies
   7. Hair accessories, hand lotion / cuticle treatment and spare jewelry
   8. The odds and ends - clean out the "bottom" of your bag every weekend to cut down on clutter! If you didn't remember it was in your purse during the previous week, you don't need it.
   9. Kindle / iPad / iPod / Phone / charger(s) - keep em in a pouch to help with organization

The Errand Purse

The errand purse is a stripped down version of the daily purse. Depending on your game-plan for the day make sure you have what you need. From the list above transfer numbers 1, 2 (minus work badge), 4 and 9. You'll also want to add grocery lists, reusable bags (be eco friendly and all) and your signature nail polish color (you deserve a manicure after the week you've had)!

The Going-Out Purse

The going-out purse is the most essential items for your night on the town. While the style is ultimately up to you and your outfit there are a few key elements to a good going-out purse. The first thing is to make sure it has a zipper or snap closure. If you're having a good night there should be a risk of your purse spilling and a zipper would save the day. Beyond a closure, a handle or wrist strap is helpful. The going out purse contents are pictured above and from the first list transfer numbers 1 and 5 (the bare essentials), your keys, phone and camera.

Many designers make a version of the card wallet above. Pick one based on your budget, what you need to keep in it and your style. Some of our favorites come from Coach, Russell + Hazel and Hobo.

Do you have any Handbag Organization tips of your own? Share them on our Facebook page or tweet them to @ColorMe_Styled using the hashtag #PackAPurse