The Advantages of a Convertible Handbag? Oh, Let Me Count The Ways!

by on

Recently, I attended a meeting regarding the upcoming TSV from Tignanello: Pebble Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag with Braided Accents. Before every fashion-oriented TSV, the designers, planners, buyers, and stylists need to be on the same page regarding styling direction. This is a crucial part of my job at QVC, but I rarely, if ever, take the “it’s my job” approach. When I look at a TSV, the first question I ask myself is “Do I want to buy this?” From there I go to, “Yes, but do I need it?” Then to, “Okay, but will I use it?” I can’t even tell you how many bags I “have to have” that wind up sitting in my closet only to be given away to my sisters, nieces, friends, or mother down the road. When I gave my youngest sister a $300 bag that still had the price tag attached after five years, sure I felt like Santa Claus (she was thrilled), but internally I was really kicking myself. Stupid, stupid, stupid! Since then, I make a concerted effort to only buy a handbag if I absolutely, positively know I will use it.

Which brings me to this fantastic bag from Tignanello: I will definitely use this bag and use it often. In fact, I think this convertible style is one every woman needs for a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Take me, for instance. When I’m schlepping clothes from one photo shoot to another, the cross-body style is exactly what I need to keep my hands free. Or, if I’m walking down a city street and want to feel secure, I can adjust the strap on my shoulder to wear it closer to my body. But, if I’m in the mood to be chic and stylish, I’d adjust the strap as long as it can go and let it hang down my body. Basically, I can make the bag whatever I need it to be with a simple adjustment of the strap — if only all areas of my life were so simple!

Here are some styling suggestions for the three variations:

1. Cross-body. The clean, simple lines of this great cashmere turtleneck dress from Isaac Mizrahi are perfect for a cross-body look. No bulk, no fuss.

2. Strap worn long on the shoulder. I find this style a little edgier, so the Luxe Rachel Zoe Plaid Hunting Jacket is an on-trend pairing. Rachel hits the mark by taking the traditional piece and giving it some fashion-forward tweaks.

3. Short on the shoulder or over the arm. To me, both styles scream “ladylike”! What better way to accessorize your new bag than with Joan Rivers Parisian Chic Woven Jacket?

As always, I love to hear your thoughts. What do you love about this convertible bag? What is your favorite style: cross-body, long on the shoulder, or short on the shoulder? Would you love to see more convertible bags from Tignanello?

—Sonja, Fashion Stylist