If you’re one of the literally millions of people impatiently awaiting the season premiere of Empire tomorrow, you know why we’ve convened today to celebrate the handbag stylings of Taraji P. Henson. She plays Cookie Lyon, who’s not only the show’s heart and soul, but also its most fantastic character and the carrier of some of the most notable designer bags on television. (More on Cookie’s style tomorrow, though.)
Although Taraji has been a celebrated actress for a long time (she was nominated for an Oscar in 2010), her role as Cookie has inspired increased paparazzi attention, which means we now have enough evidence of her handbag habits to warrant a little bit of discussion. Check out what we’ve found below, and get ready for a whole lot of Chanel.
Alexander Wang Chastity Clutch
$537 via Alexander Wang
Let’s start with the most recent: Taraji carried this clutch to the Emmys a couple days ago.
Chanel 2.55 Flap Bag
I have not asked her directly (although I would love to), but I feel comfortable saying that Chanel is Taraji’s favorite brand of bags.
Chanel Boy Bag
Her Chanel collection is extensive.
Chanel Canvas Logo Shopper Tote
And diverse!
Chanel Chain Trim Shoulder Bag
I would not want to be on the receiving end of this look.
Chanel Flap Bag
Shocking: more Chanel.
Chanel Timeless Clutch
And a Chanel for formal events!
Chloé Marcie Mini Bag
$1,990 via Neiman Marcus
No Chanel, but very cute.
Crocodile Clutch
I’m tempted to say this clutch is Nancy Gonzalez, but I can’t find a perfect match for it.
Diane de Maria Bonnie Satchel
If this bag looks or feels familiar, you probably remember the bright pink version Sarah Jessica Parker carried.
Diane von Furstenberg 440 Clutch
Shop via Diane von Furstenberg
Not many people can carry off this much neon.
Edie Parker Jean Stripes Clutch
$1,195 via FWRD
Any star who does her fair share of red carpets (and Taraji definitely does) carries an Edie Parker clutch or two at some point.
Edie Parker Jean Stripes Clutch
$1,195 via Moda Operandi
Please ignore the confusing jewelry; there is also a clutch in this picture.
Gucci Bright Diamante Tote
Shop via Gucci
Mostly I’m just impressed when anyone can keep a white bag clean for long enough to actually carry it somewhere.
Hermès Birkin
Like most celebs, even though Taraji’s one true love seems to be Chanel, she’s open to making a little bit of room in her closet for Hermès.
Les Petits Joueurs Andy Piano Clutch
$775 via Shopbop
An extremely appropriate choice for the second season premiere of Empire.
Versace Satchel
In my head, I’ll always associate this bag with Britney Spears’ late-aughts meltdown; in the middle of it, she bought two of them in white so she can her assistant would match.
