Is THIS the Unofficial Bag of Summer 2018?
Now that summer is in full swing, we get to enjoy bright and colorful fashion that can work in the office and beyond. But when it comes to accessories, a playful bag is the order of the day. If you’re still in the market for a purse that’s both whimsical and practical, look no further than Susan Alexandra, whose uber-popular it girl-approved bags will have you dreaming of the ’90s in the very best way.
By now it’s not a secret that ‘90s style essentials are back in a big way; just turn to the plethora of tiny sunglasses and jelly sandals that have dominated the season for proof. But New York-based Alexandra’s ubiquitous throwback designs marry just the right amount of nostalgia and versatility for a look that is distinctly 2018. Her series of vibrant beaded bags have dominated our feeds and are carried on the arms of Instagram cool girls like Alexa Chung and Harley Viera-Newton. Trust and believe that each childlike tote is just the kitschy accessory you need to carry all the important stuff — like your flip phone and butterfly clips.
Alexandra works largely with local women artisans to handcraft each one in NYC, a process that takes around 24 hours per bag, as she told Nylon.
“At the end of the day, I’m so committed to creating an environment where people, specifically women, have an opportunity to make money and get paid fair wages and have a career and a life making stuff versus the other way around, which is like indentured into this horrible environment,” she says. “I really, really think that, beyond the design, my bags are made by somebody who cares. So that’s my biggest goal with it, as well. It’s just making really pretty stuff.”
Want in on the old-school magic? Here are a few of our favorites.
Fresas Bag ($265): Is anything cuter than a bag that resembles our favorite summertime snack?
Joni Bag ($265): Inspired by Joni Mitchell but giving us serious Cher Horowitz vibes. Boring purse? As if.
Clem Purse ($285): The sweetest, juiciest summer tote we ever did see.
Which of these beaded bags will you be snagging for summer? Follow us on Pinterest for more style inspo!
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(Photos via Susan Alexandra)