If I were to assess my wardrobe, I would guess that 75% of it was purchased based on comfort. When I say comfort, I mean leggings, oversized sweaters, and on really lazy days—it can even mean Uggs. Before you judge me too hard, it’s not like I’m wandering the streets in pajamas or anything (although if a pajama trend ever emerges, I want in). I’m just someone who feels strongly that the athleisure trend was a dream come true…never having to put on real pants? Sign me up, I’m team leggings for life. So what’s my saving style grace on my lazy days? You guessed it, a stellar statement bag. I wish I was someone who enjoyed dressing up for any occasion and dressed nicely even on a grocery store run, and no matter how much admiration I possess for those people, that’s just not me.
I consider a statement bag to be my secret weapon in appearing put together. It’s reassuring to know that even if I’m in leggings and a plain tee-shirt, my bag can disguise the fact that I’m having a lazy day and make my outfit look elevated. If I opt to wear a basic but comfy outfit, I always pass on the neutral bags in my closet and grab a statement bag instead. It usually averts people from noticing that I’m wearing leggings as pants. I love how I feel special and beautiful with a statement bag, no other effort necessary. In a way I almost prefer to let my bag be the star player of my look, because as an avid bag lover, having my bag be the focal point of my look is the goal. While a great design can render compliments, nothing makes me feel as special as a fun statement bag. I actually think statement bags look better with a neutral outfit, but whether that’s a little black dress or your Lululemon leggings is for you to decide.
A statement bag can come in many different forms. The term “statement bag” is not confined to one specific style or design but is comprised of many different details. What one person considers a statement bag may not translate for someone else—it really depends on the person’s taste and personal style. Bright colors, funky shapes, distinctive logos, ornate beading, cool prints, and appliques can all be considered statement bags. I think it’s important to note that a statement bag has to straddle the line of tacky and classic, and that can be a hard balance to strike. Even if I’m rocking a statement bag I want to remain tasteful, and typically my rule of thumb is that if it could never pass as a neutral, it’s a statement bag. We all have different thresholds for what we consider neutral, which is something I love about fashion.
I’ve picked some of my favorite statement bags. What’s your go-to statement bag? I want to see it!
Original illustration by Kat J. Weiss
Coach Parker with Allover Tea Rose Stones ($450)
Cult Gaia Eos Box Bag ($348)
Salvatore Ferragamo Vara Rainbow Crossbody ($1,650)
Aranaz Cherine Raffia Top-Handle Bag ($365)
Gucci Sylvie Bee Star Mini Bag ($2,600)
Coach Parker Shoulder Bag ($495)
Loewe Flamenco Knot Grid Tote Bag ($2,350)
Valentino Garavani Rockstud Americana Leather Tote Bag ($2,175)
Pop & Suki Takeout Bag ($295)
