Best Handbags for Traveling

The time of year is rapidly approaching and all the traveling and frantic planning that comes along with the holidays are just around the corner. The other day in Bloomingdales, I swear I heard an orchestral version of jingle bells. Then, while waiting in line to pay, I overheard a lady say she was ‘getting an early start on her holiday shopping.’ As if that was not enough, I went home to find a catalog in the mail from two different stores, offering Holiday Sales. Talk about getting the ball rolling early! I figured that since the insurmountable stress and dualling bliss of holiday shopping is just around the bend, and since I’m already searching for train and plane tickets to visit family, I should also take into strong consideration what amazing (chic yet dependable) travel bags to use.

Beginning in November and ending sometime in January, the holiday season, especially if you are traveling, can get a bit hectic albeit amazingly exciting. For the contemporary fashion-forward traveler, functionality as well as style go hand in hand. Whether you’re cruising cross-country, internationally jet-setting, or just heading over to the other side of the city or suburb, having the perfect travel bag is just as important as remembering to pack the right pair of shoes.

Your bag shouldn’t be so huge that it overwhelms you and it can’t be too heavy to carry (after all, you need to be able to life that duffle bag while in heels!) Your travel bag should also come in a color that will complement nearly any ensemble. For supremely complementary colors, try neutrals, navy’s, and blacks. Your travel bag should also be an investment piece: something really durable that can potentially last a lifetime. Whether hitting a resort destination or going on a weekend getaway, don’t forget your travel (runway worthy) essentials: A pair of oversized sunnies, a fabulous hat (think fedora or a felt floppy), a pair of flats, a printed scarf, a comfy cardigan, and a really good book. Quality travels bags are hard to find, but I’ve already found three that I already really love!  

The Clava Leather One Night Suiter is one of our favorites. It’s so perfect for those trips you take with luxury items that you would never want wrinkled! This fold-able/hanging leather overnight garment bag is so easy to carry and is as durable and fashionable as they come. Its chic lines are a classic must-have for anyone’s collection.

The Clava Barrel Duffel is so perfect for jet-setting nearly anywhere! Not only is it a definite go-to bag for any fashionista on the run, it is also amazingly durable because of those protective brass feet and adjustable/detachable shoulder strap. This means you can take it for short overnight trips, longer plane ride excursions and even international travel. There are endless options on how to wear it and where to wear it.

The Amykathryn Sunflower is essential for the fashion savvy traveler not only because it’s lightweight and structured, but also because it has an amazing design aesthetic with antique brass hardware detail. There are a number of pockets and an adjustable or detachable shoulder strap. This duffle is perfect for travel or even going to the gym!

I am Erica Lavelanet, one half of the wardrobe styling duo, behind the blog LPFashionPhilosophy. As a wardrobe stylist, I manage wardrobe for everything from editorial shoots to independent films and commercial print. I also work one on one with bands and artists, styling them for album covers, music videos, worldwide tours and appearances. Here, I'll be sharing a few of my formally unrevealed styling tips! This is fashion Q &A, where all of your handbag woes and fashion questions will be answered and transformed. The coup-de-gras? You don't need an entirely new wardrobe to revamp your closet - Maybe all you need is just a few new key pieces or accessories. And, Handbago, for a new clutch, satchel, messenger, or bucketbag, is the perfect place to start. 

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