The Life-Saver Bag

It always seems like we can never have enough bags. There’s always a new style by a new designer that we simply must add into our never-ending collection! But if there’s one essential style that every girl should have, it’s the tote.

The tote bag is ideal for many reasons. It conveniently fits all of your necessities (and even some non-essentials too), and it can easily take you from office/classes to play, which becomes such a life-saver when you don’t have the time to dash home in between social callings for touch-ups. The tote bag, with its super spacious interior and – if you’re lucky – multiple compartments also make it the perfect traveling companion.

A couple of weekends ago, I was busy dashing around town, and my Zara tote made life so much easier. I happily stuffed my phone and sunglasses into the two front pockets for easy access, and I freely tossed my wallet, water bottle, Kleenex pack, lotion, chapstick, camera, Evian facial spray, and emergency items like a light sweater and Tylenol into the main compartment. During busy times like this when you’re constantly on the go and need your whole life right hanging conveniently at your shoulder, a small bag just won’t do!

Five Unquestionably Timeless Tote Bags
Mansur Gavriel Large Tote (pre-order)
J. Crew Uptown Tote
Neiman Marcus Tassel Tote
Urban Outfitters Reversible Tote Bag
Madewell McCarren Tote

By the way, today is the day that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opens up to non-cardholders! You can take a look at some of my favorites in the handbag and apparel departments and use that as a starting point for your shopping, since I know browsing sales can get overwhelming. And while that is going on, let’s not forget about J. Crew’s fantastic sale too – for a limited time, take 30% off with the code GOSHOPPING (quick word of advice: don’t wait too long; items are selling out fast!). For your consideration, here are 10 fabulous classic pieces that will take you through season after season in style:

1. Shawl Collar Blazer (petite size available!)
2. Cropped Swing Trench (petite and tall sizes available!)
3. Floral Eyelet Top
4. Chevron Striped Dress (petite and tall sizes available!)
5. Cropped Sweater
6. Toothpick Cone Skinny Jeans
7. Crossover Wrap Skirt
8. Drawstring Linen Short
9. Leather Clutch (the crossbody I’ve been wearing so often is also on sale!)
10. Straw Boater Hat

Top: Lush (similar here and here)
Bottom: Trouve (similar)
Belt: Asos
Wedges: Nine West
Accessories: Polette sunglasses, Zara tote (similar here and here)