Metallic Handbags: The Everything, Everywhere Bags

If being stylish seems like a struggle for you, I will let you in on a secret that will make it seem far less daunting: Stylish women know how to choose items that are both chic and versatile. You may look at a woman and wonder how she can always pull a look together so effortlessly. However, if you look closely, you may notice that the items she chooses, like that colorful scarf, those bold ballerina flats, or simple navy blazer, for example, can be worn a variety of different ways. Pulling a good look together has less to do with volume and more to do with versatility.

This is why I want to talk about the importance of metallic handbags because I think having one in your wardrobe, that can add an instant punch to your most basic of outfits, will make you look way more stylish and pulled together. Here's why.

Metallic handbags are novelty basics

Let's be honest, most women don't change their handbags daily. The goal is to always carry one that will work with the majority of what you own. While there are many colored handbags that can fill this role, metallic is one that is not only versatile but exciting. It doesn't matter what you are wearing, if you are going to work or hanging out on the weekends, if you have a black tie affair or want to a stylish diaper bag, metallic will work. Close your eyes and imagine a basic white t-shirt and jeans. Now picture the same outfit styled with a metallic handbag. It's a lot more interesting. This is why metallic bags are so great, they add instant interest while being incredibly functional.

What color metallic handbag is right for you?

There is not right or wrong answer to this. It all boils down to personal preference. Look at the colors in your your wardrobe and the types of metals you are attracted to in your jewelry to determine if gold, silver, or even colors like bronze, pewter and copper, are right for you. Personally, I always gravitate toward gold colors, and with my coloring it is probably easy to figure out why. Bottom line is, whatever color you choose will work.

All the ways you can carry a metallic handbag

Below are five different metallic handbags (and be sure to check out the additional styles at the end of the post), all styled a variety of different ways. Notice how each bag works with each look while also adding a little pop and excitement. Yes, your metallic handbag can be your everything handbag. Read on for more.

Outfit #1
Let's start with a basic crossbody bag in metallic, like this one by Fossil. It can be great for casual weekends and vacation. Not only will it schnazz up your relaxed looks but can also work with whatever you pack on vacation.

In this outfit, I used the bag with this Lucky Brand printed top, denim skirt from Boden, comfortable Pikolinos shoes and novelty hoop earrings from Free People.

Outfit #2
A classic work tote in a metallic is another smart choice. With all you have to do to get out on time in the morning, having a tote bag that can store all your work materials, while also working with whatever you are wearing, is definitely going to shave some time off your morning while also guaranteeing you will look pulled together.

In this outfit, I chose a metallic tote from INC International Concepts that works beautifully with these grey theory cropped pants, Reiss blouse and long Theory cardigan. To accessorize the look, and to add some color, I used these burgundy pumps from Via Spiga and earrings from Kendra Scott and finished the look with stacked bracelets from Bauble Bar.

Outfit #3
Even for more corporate jobs, a metallic handbag will work. This pewter style from Rebecca Minkoff adds some edge to this more conservative outfit consisting of a Boss Hugo Boss printed top, a navy skirt from Reiss, a white knit blazer from White House|Black Market, navy peep toe pumps from Ann Taylor and blue stud earrings from Kensie.
Outfit #4
Here is another metallic bag that you can pick up and carry with whatever you are wearing, this silver style from Nine West. For a soft, summer look, I used this pair of minty skinny jeans from the Gap, a printed blouse from Rebecca Taylor, nude flats with metallic accents Patricia Green and link earrings from Max & Chloe.
Outfit #5
If you are going to buy one metallic handbag choose a clutch. Here's why. Unless you spend the majority of your time living this fabulous life attending formal event after formal event, you will probably have one or two of these types of shindigs to attend every year, if that. Wouldn't you want a bag that will work with every single formal outfit you wear, no matter what it looks like? What a waste of money to buy a new clutch for the "once in a blue moon" times you have to get dressed up, only to let it sit in your closet and collect dust. Choose a clutch like a metallic one that you can always use.

In this outfit, I chose this Diane von Furstenberg clutch in gold and styled it with a turquoise cocktail dress from Karen Millen. Finishing the look, I used these gold, strappy heels from Vince Camuto, a pair of turquoise and gold earrings from Bauble Bar and a gold bracelet from Stella & Dot.

Metallic handbags can certainly be used year round but they are exceptionally great in the summer. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and pick up a metallic bag.

Shop for a metallic handbag

Check out these additional styles