• About
  • Near to My Heart
  • City Guide: Things to Do In Dallas
  • SHOP MY INSTAGRAM
  • Contact
  • Press
  • Archives
  • Privacy & Policies

Sign up to receive exclusive content, fashion and beauty tips, and subscriber-only giveaways!

She Sweats Diamonds
She Sweats Diamonds
  • Home
  • Style
    • Weekend Looks
    • For the Office
    • Athleisure
    • Occasion
    • Wardrobe Tips
    • Guides
  • The Beauty Edit
    • Skincare
    • Makeup
    • Hair / Nails
    • Bath & Body
    • Product Reviews
  • Wellness
    • Emotional Intelligence
    • Relationships
    • Self Care
    • Fitness
    • Faith
    • Food & Drink
  • Boss Ladies
    • Personal Growth / Development
    • Leadership
    • Mind(set)
    • Motivation / Inspiration
    • Blogging Tips
    • Recommended Reading
  • Lifestyle
    • Luxury
    • Intentional Living
    • Real Talk
    • Travel
    • Home Decor
    • Holiday
  • Shop
    • SHOP MY INSTAGRAM
    • Gift Guides
    • Skincare Favorites
    • Makeup Favorites
    • Beauty Tools
    • Fitness
    • Home
    • Books
  • Subscribe
Style

An Ode to Handbags

Posted on July 15, 2020July 8, 20211min read

I like my money where I can see it – hanging in my closet. —Carrie Bradshaw

I got schooled during my first week when I first started working in luxury retail, nearly a decade ago.

My co-worker said, “Here, we don’t call what you’re carrying purses. They’re called handbags.”

I learned real quick that the word ‘purses’ cheapen what we love to spend our hard-earned money on. It may sound snobby to say something like that, but ‘purses’ does sound cheap when you think about it, right?

From that day on, I’ve always used ‘handbags’ whenever I’m eyeing a new piece of art for my collection.

Sadly, with everything that’s been going on this year, our bags haven’t been used to the capacity they should be enjoyed.

So, in today’s article, I wanted to share my ultimate wish list when it comes to my handbag collection. In no particular order, here’s my favorite handbags!

FENDI PEEKABOO ICONIC MEDIUM

Even though this style is no longer offered on Fendi’s website, I still love it.

If you’ve been around here, you know I love the thrill of a hunt for something I love. That said, this bag will be on my list to search for because it will be in my handbag collection someday.

I’d probably get the medium; just big enough to carry my life’s essentials and someone else’s stuff should we be out shopping…someday when life returns to a new normal (sigh). I just love the mean eyes. I feel like it’s saying, “Hey you! You can stare, but don’t touch.”

An Ode to Handbags - She Sweats Diamonds - Fendi Iconic Peekaboo Monster - Modeison - Ozgur
Image via Modeison_
An Ode to Handbags - Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis - Megan Runion
Image via Megan Runion
LOUIS VUITTON POCHETTE MÉTIS

“Hello my love.” is what I’d say when I welcome home this babe one day. The Pochette Métis style has been on my handbags wish list for nearly a half decade.

I adore crossbody bags for the mere reason of being able to be hands-free. And this one has been at the top of my handbag desires. It’s big enough to carry everything I’d need and more.

I’d be able to add my wallet, phone, car keys, some makeup, and still have room for a point-and-shoot camera, which would make this content creator very happy ALL the time!

CHLOÉ NILE BRACELET BAG

For the past several years, I’ve had this exact Chloe Nile on my private handbags Pinterest board. I fell in love with the feminine yet edgy style of this crossbody bag from the start.

While I heard it can’t fit bigger iPhones, that won’t deter me from adding this bag to my collection someday!

The possibilities to style this bag are endless and that’s how I want all my purchases of bags to be justified: cost divided by times per wear.

An Ode to Handbags - She Sweats Diamonds - Erica Hoida - Fashioned Chic Styling - CHLOÉ NILE BRACELET BAG
Image via Erica Hoida
GIVENCHY MINI ANTIGONA SATCHEL - Alyssa Lenore
Image via Alyssa Lenore
GIVENCHY MINI ANTIGONA SATCHEL

Small yet mighty! I’ve never been interested in the bigger sizes of this style as I heard they can be very heavy.

The more I looked at this bag, the more I adored the mini size. I feel like although it’s small, it looks like it can definitely fit a lot.

The problem I would have would be choosing between this beautiful neutral color or jet black.

What’s a satchel if it can’t be worn cross body at some point either, am I right?

DIOR DIORAMA

I first discovered the Diorama style from Lydia several years ago and fell in love.

Yes, it’s another crossbody, but what’s not to love? I wouldn’t choose this exact bag as pictured here, but would go for a jet black one with gold hardware. I will also add their cult-favorite, stunning Tribales pearl earrings to my jewelry collection!

Aside from CHANEL, Dior is such a beautiful brand I’ve always loved. After visiting their fashion exhibit this past fall, I respect what they create even more.

Lydia Elise Millen - studded Dior Diorama Bag
Image via Lydia Elise Millen
An Ode to Handbags - She Sweats Diamonds - VALENTINO GARAVANI MEDIUM ROCKSTUD - Lorna Luxe
Image via Lorna Luxe
VALENTINO GARAVANI ROCKSTUD

This beauty has been on my ultimate handbags wish list for years.

I feel like it’s the best bag to strike a perfect balance between feminine and edgy, which is my personal style preference. I’d get this exact bag as pictured: grained calfskin in the medium size with gold studs.

Versatility is the name of my game, so I love how you can wear it on your shoulder, crossbody style, or tuck in the chain to wear it on your arm. Three styles for one price tag? Yes, please!

CHANEL VANITY CASE

What woman who loves luxury goods doesn’t have anything CHANEL in their closet? No one.

Even after owning a few CHANEL pieces myself, I am of the type who wholeheartedly believes, “You can never have enough CHANEL.”

And it would be a crime if this nude vanity case wasn’t a part of my handbag wish list. Am I right or am I right?

Although I haven’t seen this bag in person, I can tell it will hold my daily essentials and can see myself wearing this all-year round handbag during colder days like Marianna in this photo and also with shorts, a t-shirt, and blazer for spring.

An Ode to Handbags - She Sweats Diamonds - Marianna Hewitt CHANEL-chanel-box-bag-chanel vanity case
Image via Marianna Hewitt
Annabelle Fleur - white-suit - Rosantica Billie Bag -2019-pasadena-7-848x1272
Image via Annabelle Fleur
ROSANTICA BILLIE BAG

I first saw this bag on Annebelle of The VivaLuxury and fell in love! I’m a huge fan of owning unique clutches and evening bags and Rosantica truly creates unique and stunning bags.

I love this style Annabelle is wearing and also adore their Pearly Ball Clutch Bag, which is sold out everywhere. If you ask me, either of these bags are worthy for any wedding or special event!

I can definitely see myself carrying a Rosantica bag on the red carpet someday (should I be someone’s plus one or there because of my hard work)! Even though this bag style wouldn’t be able to fit my iPhone Plus, I wouldn’t be mad because I’d be wearing a gown/dress with pockets, haha!

BVLGARI SERPENTI FOREVER

As a huge fan of edgy style with a feminine touch, I fell in love with Bulgari’s Serpenti collection. Yes, it’s another crossbody. However, I find that it’s such a distinct style I’d love to have in my closet.

I can see myself wearing this silver style like Victoria, pictured here or a stunning red one. If Bulgari is turning a neutral lover like me into liking some color, you know they’re good!

I love how you can tuck the chains inside to turn it into a clutch like Lydia did here. Yay for versatility!

Bulgari Serpenti Forever Bag - In the Frow - Victoria McGrath
Image via Victoria McGrath
gucci-soho-bag-krystal-schlegel
Image via Krystal Schlegel
GUCCI SOHO DISCO BAG

Although the Gucci Soho Disco bag is another crossbody, I think it’s worthy to replace my seven year old Rebecca Minkoff Avery crossbody that can barely fit my wallet, phone, and keys anymore.

Out of all the crossbody bags on my wish list, I think this style would be most durable for daily/casual use. I’m not sure which color I’d pick though. If I want an understated look, I’d go for black or tan, but if I want a pop of color, red is always my go-to shade when it comes to handbags.

I’m not a fan of gigantic logos, but since it’s stitched into the leather, I don’t mind this look at all. What do you think of this bag?

BOTTEGA VENETTA CASSETTE BAG

I normally don’t like “trendy” bags, but I love this padded bag. To me, it looks so unique! The way Melissa has styled it here and with a winter outfit looks SO good!

I feel like most people think Bottega’s bags are trendy, but I feel like their bags will be the kind that comes back from time to time. If trends eventually return, is it really considered “trendy” or be considered “a classic in rotation” over time?

If I had to pick from the Bottega family, I’d choose this bag or The Pouch in the woven style.

BOTTEGA VENETTA PADDED CASSETTE BAG - Melissa's wardrobe
Image via Melissa Holdbrook-Akposoe
An Ode to Handbags - She Sweats Diamonds - Micah Gianneli - Chanel classic flap
Image via Micah Gianneli
CHANEL CLASSIC FLAP

Hello lover! The ultimate handbag of all handbags. I’ve been lusting after you for years along with your chevron bag of a brother.

Someday, I’ll grow my CHANEL family with a Pearl Shopping Tote, Pearl Flap (thanks to Alyssa inspiring me), Boy Bag, and a few more SLGs.

Whether it’s casual or dressy, any outfit will always be elevated with a CHANEL handbag. I can see wearing this bag to my heart’s content for years to come. If there’s a classic bag to pass down to future generations, it’s anything from CHANEL.

For those who have been around SSD for awhile, you know that I have a penchant for luxury goods. However, with my champagne taste on a beer budget personality, I’ve never been one to spend full-price on anything.

To me, it’s all about living sustainably, saving money, and enjoying the thrill of the hunt.

That said, I’ll be searching for most of these bags through consignment and second-hand boutiques.

I feel like it’ll make the acquiring process much more fun, no matter how long it takes! And don’t worry, I’ve been learning how to spot authentic and fake goods with the free time I’ve had lately, ha!

I hope some of these ladies I’ve featured in today’s article have inspired you to choose your next handbag carefully! I follow all of them for fashion inspiration and hope you will too!

If you could blink and have your most coveted handbags in your closet, what handbags would make the list?

This blog post was inspired by Purse Blog’s article, An Ode to the Purse in These Strange, Bag-Less Times

Share

Shop The Post

Subscribe so you don’t miss a post

Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates!

An Ode to Handbags

previously

The Cut: No. 12
An Ode to Handbags

up next

GLÓ by Lydia Elise Millen
You Might Also Like
Current Fashion Trends I Hate As a Blogger
Current Fashion Trends I Hate As a Blogger
Posted on June 15, 2017May 28, 2020
The Diamond Edit No. 12: Camel and Black
The Diamond Edit No. 12: Camel and Black
Posted on October 5, 2017June 13, 2019
My Go-To Outfit :: Black Jumpsuit & Falabella Bag
My Go-To Outfit :: Black Jumpsuit & Falabella Bag
Posted on January 30, 2018June 13, 2019
Goodbye :: Turtleneck Sweater & Puffy Coat
Goodbye :: Turtleneck Sweater & Puffy Coat
Posted on January 31, 2017February 7, 2019
All Black Everything :: Jersey Swing Dress & Statement Necklace
All Black Everything :: Jersey Swing Dress & Statement Necklace
Posted on May 23, 2017February 7, 2019
Happy 4th of July!
Happy 4th of July!
Posted on July 4, 2017June 13, 2019
Hello!

Hello!

Welcome to She Sweats Diamonds, a Dallas-based, multi-faceted lifestyle blog about luxury fashion, beauty, self-leadership, and intentional living!

Read more

Sign up to receive weekly exclusive discounts, sales alerts, content updates, fashion, beauty tips, and more!


Looking for something in particular?
Just type in a few keywords and hit enter!

Web Stories


LTK app - Shop My Instagram - Huong Vo - Dallas Blog - Dallas Blogger-She Sweats Diamonds 2Shop LTK app - RewardStyle - Huong Vo - Dallas influencer


Things to Do in Dallas - Dallas City Guide - Huong Vo - She Sweats DiamondsDallas City travel guide - Dallas, TX travel guide - She Sweats Diamonds - Dallas Fashion and Lifestyle blog


Real Talk - She Sweats Diamonds - Huong Vo

  • Reflections
  • Trending

My Passions - She Sweats Diamonds - Huong Vo

COMING SOON…

Sign up to receive exclusive discounts, sales alerts, content updates, fashion, and beauty tips!

Talk nerdy with me, especially with luxury fashion and beauty, self-leadership, and intentional living!

"Blame is not a strategy for a meaningful life." - Tony Robbins Check out EP 1263 from @LewisHowes School of Greatness podcast! SO good!
2 months ago
Is it ironic #MyTwitterAnniversary is the day after Elon Musk owns the platform? 😂 https://t.co/yHABqTJRQu
2 months ago
RT @elonmusk: I hope that even my worst critics remain on Twitter, because that is what free speech means
2 months ago

The positive side of social media is making friends and getting to know each other. Let’s connect!

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Pinterest
  • Bloglovin
Huong Vo Instagram - Dallas blogger - She Sweats Diamonds - Dallas blog

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Jun 22

Open
A late Father’s Day post because after 14 years, there’s not much more you can express than:
✨I love you so much.
✨I miss you, ba.
✨I wish you were here.
✨Happy Father’s Day!
✨I love and miss you more than you know.

I spent the weekend honoring my daddy while making memories with my dad number two (my bestie’s dad).

Tom & Jerry was one of my daddy’s favorite cartoons so I watched a few episodes in his memory.

Then I went to dinner with my second dad and bestie and after that, he taught us how to install a ceiling fan.

The crazy part is that I know my daddy would’ve been so proud if he were there with us — he was a huge advocate of formal and informal education.

Don’t worry, dad. You should see all the manly things I know how to do (shingle a roof and change a tire are just a few) and all the books I’ve read, and podcasts I’ve listened to.😆
Happy Father’s Day in Heaven! I love you!🌸
#FathersDay2022

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Jun 1

Open
What’s the best business advice you’ve ever been given?

I had one of my weekly mentorship calls last night and wrote down a major gold nugget I wanted to share with you: “If you don’t have returns in your business, it’s not big enough.”

Wow.

When you think about it, Target gets returns all the time and they don’t pout about it. They move on and keep the business up and running.

When someone makes a return, it has nothing to do with your self-worth and who you are.

If you own a business, join me and let this part of being an entrepreneur go so we can focus on growing personally and professionally.

Tell me in the comments below the best business advice you’ve ever been given!👇🏼

Shop my journal here — https://liketk.it/3GF5Z

shesweatsdiamonds

View

May 30

Open
I shared my thoughts on this last year and will continue to share until people as a collective understand the true meaning of #MemorialDay.

Coming from a military family, I know very well that Memorial Day is NOT a happy day; it’s why I don’t say “Happy Memorial Day!”

It’s also not about sales, being poolside, grilling, or having an extra “vacation” day. 

It’s about remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can have the freedoms we have today.

To me, it’s also about sending immense gratitude and love to the families who have lost their loved ones because no matter how much time has passed, the void will always be present.

Last year, I shared the story about my grandfather on my mom’s side. This year, I want to share my dad’s story.

When my brother and I were young, my dad took us to a helicopter expo. He worked in aviation and asked us if we wanted to go. We said yes because we wanted to get a glimpse of his passion.

Of course, as kids, we climbed in and out of so many helicopters that day. While standing in one huge helicopter, I looked out and told my dad, “Daddy! Come up here! You have to see this! It’s so cool in here!” to which he yelled up, “It’s okay, honey! I’ll wait for you both right out here!”

I can’t remember if it was later that week or how much time had passed. One day, we’re sitting in the living room watching TV and my dad says out of the blue, “Honey, you know why I didn’t get on the helicopter with you and your brother?”

“No, daddy. I thought it was too crowded for you.”

“I have bad memories from the war.”

I asked him what happened and it turns out he was in a helicopter crash and watched his friends die beside him.

I couldn’t believe it.

And to think he had carried those memories for so long.

Most people may never tell stories like this because it’s too painful. Even though he’s passed for 14 years now, I can’t imagine how many more stories/moments like that died with him that I (my family and the world) will never know.

Families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those alive today who witnessed the thin line between life and death are why I believe saying thank you will never be enough.♥️🇺🇸🙏🏼

shesweatsdiamonds

View

May 28

Open
Long week, long weekend.🧖🏻‍♀️

Shop my favorite facial cleansing balm —  https://liketk.it/3Gim4

shesweatsdiamonds

View

May 9

Open
To my grandma who is halfway across the world, I thank God immensely because it all began with you.

Thank you for encouraging your daughter to come to America to live a better life.

Because of your sacrifices, I get to have my most precious gift and cherish her with every fiber of my being. I love you so much.

Mom, thank you for your courage and bravery to come to America with nothing except a knitted handbag and coat on your back.

Thank you for passing on your wisdom and teaching me about emotional intelligence before EQ even became a thing.

Thank you for teaching me that you’re never too old to learn about anything.

Thank you for always reminding me to not stress or worry.

Thank you for always making sure I have food even when I’m full.

Thank you for making me laugh endlessly.

And mom, don’t think I don’t notice that you put the best pieces of food on my plate instead of yours.

My word, I am so incredibly and abundantly blessed to have a mom like you! 

I love you SO much, mẹ! God, you broke the mold when You made her!
#MyHearts
#MyGrandma
#MyMom

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Apr 21

Open
Another year without you. It’s hard to believe you left us 14 years ago.

Sometimes I wonder what our conversations would be like if you were still with us…if you’d already be retired or still be doing what you loved, what you’d think of world events, and if you’d finally come to a place where you could tell us stories from the war.

No matter what, I’m going to keep your memory alive. I love and miss you, daddy!
#MissYouSoMuch
#InHeaven

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Apr 16

Open
Happy Easter Weekend, loves!

Spent today reflecting on Christ’s love for us and I’m still in awe that until we meet Him, we still won’t understand the magnitude of His love.

Romans 5:6-8

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Apr 4

Open
Tonight, I’ll be making my return to the gym after two long years!!!

So happy I got clearance from my chiropractor to lift weights again!

Not going to lie, I’m nervous, but I’m more excited because I’ve missed it so much.

I hate having to start all over again, but to know that I GET to work out is such a huge blessing!

Y’all know I love my @apl, so what better way to celebrate than a new, neutral-colored pair of workout shoes?

You can shop them here — https://liketk.it/3BKHu

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Mar 22

Open
Goodbye winter!!! Don’t take it personally…I used to love you.

I just prefer sunny walks, flowers and trees blooming, baby ducks swimming, and birds chirping.

Don’t worry. Unlike Ross and Rachel, I have it on record that we’re officially on a break. 

Not sure if I hate your ice storms more or tornado warnings (like the one we just had just now).😑

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Mar 20

Open
Happy first day of spring, loves!!!🌸

I cannot tell you how excited I am now that spring is here. More sunshine, more flowers, more nature. Thank you, God!!!🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Mar 19

Open
How do you take your coffee — iced or hot?

Iced all year round for me.🧊

Oh and whoever invented bean water, thank you. You became a hero the day you threw some beans into hot water and created this magical elixir.

#DallasCoffee

shesweatsdiamonds

View

Feb 22

Open
STOP. THE. PRESSES!!!

I posted an outfit photo? What? 🤯

Well, I forgot I took this photo a few weeks ago when it snowed here in Dallas.😂

And guess what? I see snow in the forecast for Thursday!

By the way, what do you think people want more these days? Photo or video content? Comment below and let me know YOUR preference!👇🏼

Outfit details here — https://liketk.it/3xBxx
  • FAQs
  • Privacy & Policies
© Copyright 2021 She Sweats Diamonds. All Rights Reserved.