‘It’ Is So Over: Handbags Become Obscure Again

I probably shouldn't be saying this, but I am so sick of It-bags. These mini-status symbols cost enough to cover a few months' rent  – and their longevity in the social circuit is more uncertain than today's stock market. The worst part is they can't even live up to being exclusively 'It'. Which is why more women are now moving away from designer It bags towards lesser known labels. According to the Wall Street Journal, women who used to seek out these bags as status symbols and signs of luxury lifestyles are no longer feeling very special with their Fendi Baguettes tucked underneath their arms. Basically, luxury companies got greedy, forgot their target consumer-  or rather pinpointed a new one – and the word 'luxury' no longer holds any water. What took these women so long to figure this one out? I knew it the minute I passed a 12 year old on the street carrying the same Chloe Bag I had saved A YEAR to purchase. In my mind, this bag represented a step towards maturity, sophistication, responsibility, and the finer things in life. I guess the 12 year old and I have a lot in common. Or is it just that luxury doesn't mean crap anymore.

Women are now flocking towards smaller labels in order to stand out from the crowd with a bag that not everybody can get a hold of. These bags also tend to be more streamlined and simple. Here are a few of our suggestions for supremely stylish bags that will definitely keep you a head above the rest. 

These patent bags from Ziordia are very sleek and compact, but pack a poweful punch. The mustard Peyton clutch ($295) is tri-folded, with a metal-chain handle that can be worn long or short. The Ashby Satchel ($445) is detailed with antique copper hardware and a tattoo-printed interior lining.

For a more casual look, Qara bags are the perfect fit. The distressed leather and matte metal buckles on the Amanda Bag ($325) make it perfect for daytime toting. And for heftier loads, the Bobo Weekender ($390) will carry everything from your drop-kick dog to last night's cocktail dress. 

Kooba makes edgy leather bags in modern, useable shapes. The Kooba Cameron Tote ($625) has roomy pockets and a comfortable handle for carrying around. The Hannah Clutch ($375) comes in an iridescent metallic leather that's perfect for evening.