With our upcoming trip to the British Isles now less than four weeks away, I've begun mentally compiling a travel wardrobe and test driving some items and outfits on weekends.
I've reviewed my notes from the last couple of trips about what worked and didn't, and realized that I wasn't entirely happy with last year's handbag choices. I really want to stick with a single bag that can go from day to evening, which means a cross-body style, but preferably with a top handle. (Last year I sold my MARC by Marc Jacobs cross-body bag that went to Italy in 2011. It was serviceable enough, but I just didn't love it.) So a-hunting I did go. I was determined to stay away from recognizable "It" bags (otherwise might have been tempted by the Mulberry Alexa) or anything with obvious logos. I didn't want anything too large, heavy or structured, or that I'd see coming and going. And it had to close securely.
When none of my in-person retail searches turned up what I had in mind, I began nosing around online. It wasn't long before this bag grabbed my attention, initially because it was just so different. Made by a British company called Golden Lane, the bag comes in two sizes and multiple colors and textures. The design features dual compartments that zip closed (each with either interior zip or slip pockets) and lovely smooshy leather.
The bag is soft and moulds nicely to the body when worn cross-body. The longer strap is wide enough that it doesn't dig into the shoulder (important when you're traipsing around all day). And it can also be carried on the arm or in hand with the shorter handle (nice for evenings). It easily holds everything I'd normally carry during a day of sightseeing. And I love the simple look of it...no logos, no superfluous or heavy hardware. Verdict: it's a keeper!
I wanted to show the color of the top above, because for decades I'd believed that I "couldn't wear" that shade of blue. It probably goes back to my first color analysis (remember Color Me Beautiful from the 80's?) when I was in my late twenties. I was assessed as a Spring, and this color was part of the Winter palette. But a few weeks ago, a Sales Associate at Eileen Fisher talked me into trying it on. The clouds parted, the sun shone through and now Look Ma, I'm Wearin' Cobalt Blue! It coordinates beautifully with the Nordstrom's scarf too. After almost a lifetime of avoiding most blues, I'm discovering how flattering and versatile they can be.
To answer Hostess' question from a few weeks ago, the vintage car you see in the background belongs to a neighbor.
Head to Toe...
Earrings: Majorica.
Scarf: Nordstrom's Cashmere Blend Eyelash Wrap.
Top: Eileen Fisher.
Cardigan: Eileen Fisher. (Now on sale in Petite sizes.)
Jeans: NYDJ Alina.
Bag: Golden Lane Duo Satchel.
Boots: Gentle Souls Barne Voyage
More Golden Lane bags:
Are there any colors or styles you believed weren't right for you, then discovered you could wear after all?
I'll be linking up with this week's Visible Monday at Not Dead Yet Style.
Have a great Poisson d'Avril!
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