Best Summer Bags for Your Body Type
Designer Patricia Nash gives you the lowdown on cute bags for sunny summer days and nights.
-Patricia Nash, BettyConfidential.com
When it comes to updating your wardrobe for summer, figure-flattering pieces are an absolute essential. Don't stop at clothes. This summer, take dressing for your body-type to the next level by choosing the best bags to complement your build as well. Blake Lively, the Olsen sisters, Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian know the secret of dressing to accentuate.
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Read on for my advice on how to pick your favorite summer bag.
Slender body type
While cross-body bags may seem like the least feminine option, when worn diagonally the strap actually creates the illusion of curves by drawing the eye from shoulder to hip. See how the bag works for Taylor Swift.
Three to try:
Mulberry Alexa leather bag ($1200, net-a-porter.com)
Patricia Nash Scooter sling bag ($198, anthropologie.com)
Jaclyn Smith striped cross body bag ($17.49, kmart.com)
Petite body type
If you're built like Ashley or Mary-Kate Olsen, remember you can elongate a smaller figure with a compact, structured top handle bag. I love the simplicity of these chic, ladylike styles.
Three to try:
French Connection Morrocan handbag ($67.99, usa.frenchconnection.com)
Handmade large top handle bag with woven web detail ($4200, gucci.com)
Quilted padlock satchel ($88, armaniexchange.com)
Leggy like Blake? Curvy like Kim? Your bags are up next!
Tall body type
If you're tall like Blake Lively, skip the tiny bag trend and go for something bright and roomy that balances your height. Think oversized styles in neon shades or eye catching prints.
Three to try:
Kate Spade New York Mott St. Riley satchel ($425, bloomingdales.com)
Foley + Corinna Bora hobo ($235, piperlime.com)
Colored Vachetta leather tote ($50, clava.com)
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Curvy
For girls with that coveted hourglass shape, choose a sleek oversized clutch that fits perfectly under your arm and into the small of your waist. The hands-on style complements your curves instead of concealing them with extra bulk and embellishment. Kim Kardashian has a rainbow of clutches in her closet.
Three to try:
Patricia Nash Toulouse tri fold veg tan clutch ($168, dillards.com)
BCBG Generation fringe convertible clutch ($39.99, fashion58.com)
Christian Louboutin Riviera clutch spotted pony ($1195, shopsavannahs.com)
Patrica Nash has designed handbags and accessories for the last twenty years. After working with other designers including Mark Ecko, she decided to create her own line. Patricia Nash designed bags can be found at Dillards, Anthropologie and other stores nationwide. To see more of her designs, visit her site.
