my new spring bags for 2024
of varying sizes, shapes, colors and prices ranging from $-$$$$
After seven weeks of home renovation (while dwelling in said home), two weeks of cleaning, repairing, returning things, and reorganizing, it feels good to settle into my new-ish home. Sure, there are a few things here and there to fix up and clean, but the big projects are done, and we can finally sleep restfully at night.
The struggle was not in the weekly (or daily) interruptions in our routine while the contractors painted walls, installed kitchen appliances, laid the tiles, applied the grout. It was trudging through the daily grind of keeping up with our work responsibilities in our respective careers. For my extroverted husband it was a special sort of challenge; to keep it together in the same small, familiar space where he worked, ate, and slept.
This past week I finally visited the beautiful Row boutique on Melrose in all its minimal, quiet luxury glory.
One of my most enjoyable aspects of shopping is connecting with the sales associate with our shared love of the brand. And what I appreciate most is honesty. Sometimes I need to be told if something looks “off” or if I should consider perhaps another style or color.
After trying on a gorgeous 90s bag in a beautiful suede blueish hue, briefly contemplating a gorgeous pouch in chocolate brown leather, what caught my eye was the Bindle 3.
With its delicate nappa leather and effortless three dimensional slouch held together by a soft handle, it is an updated version of its predecessors, the original bindle and bindle 2.
The bindle bag is not my first purchase from The Row. Two weeks ago I bought the nylon sock flat as soon as it became available for purchase on the website. Though I don’t usually blind buy shoes, especially flats and sneakers, for this one purchase I made an exception.
a more budget friendly alternative
The large cross bag by Digo Studio made with 14 oz cotton twill is a beautiful alternative to the leather bindle. It can be machine washed and just as roomy, with a side pocket and spaciousness (to fit a book, laptop, and iPad) that I appreciate. One caveat: these bags sell quick; within two minutes the mini cross bags were sold out. I would set up notifications and keep an eye out on Digo Studio’s IG page for when the next restock will be.
two more spring bags i carried this past week
I started following Leandra Medine Cohen’s Substack this year (I especially enjoy reading her “What do moms wear” series) and received the notification that her second collab with Soeur dropped.
I was in the market for a silvery/metallic pouch, and after pondering on it for a few weeks, I decided to go for it and get the suzette bag.
The drawstring is a bit of a struggle to cinch together, but overall, I do think it is a cute and whimsical alternative to a basic tote or crossbody. It easily fits a continental wallet, keys, iPhone Pro, a few lip products.
Whenever I get a chance, I grab a coffee or quick lunch in Fashion Island when I am in south O.C. for work.
This past week, I finally got a chance to visit Lido Village and walked into Clare V.
Its Parisian-chic aesthetic with a California twist is so refreshing to look at. Sadly I was in between sessions for work, so I was unable to try on their apparel (which included a Kelly green pullover, striped trousers and cute logo tees).
But I did have time to try on this black Sandy bag, and instantly fell in love with the sturdy leather handles and perfect drop length that saves me the struggle of using both hands to wear it on the shoulder when I’m in a rush out the door.
I would venture to say I am quite pleased with my spring wardrobe and accessories. A fun challenge would be to style unique outfits by shopping what is already in my closet.
the bindle looks great on you! and Clare V always has fun + colorful takes on classic shapes.
Really enjoyed these recommendations Pamela. I'm looking for a good, chic mom bag!