Anya Hindmarch

Being as it is such a nice, sunny day in NYC, my thoughts turned towards summery things, like swirly ice cream cones, lazy beach days, and of course, the ubiquitous straw tote. This gorgeous Anya Hindmarch Straw Tote would complete any summer look. Pick your fantasy: gallivanting on the white beaches of a private island or sipping cocktails on a megayacht, this bag fits right in. Hindmarch has become known for her famously detailed bags, most recognized for her “I’m Not a Plastic Bag” canvas tote, and this bag is no different. But would you really pay close to $700 for something you’ll plunk in the sand day after day, for a common beach bag?

Well, this is no common beach bag. The attention to detail is what makes the price; the straw is impeccably woven (no fraying here!), and the woven patent leather meshes perfectly with the straw. But still, almost $700! Perhaps this bag is just one for those jetting off to private islands, provided that they don’t plunk this creation in the sand, no matter how white. Buy through Shopbop for $645.

Isn’t it funny how things from your childhood are ingrained in your memory? When I came across the Anya Hindmarch Viola Wicker Clutch, I instantly remembered a chair with a wicker base my parents had in their house. When Megs and I were young, we would sit there and poke our fingers through the wicker holes. For whatever reason, that seemed to keep us entertained for quite some time. However, I am not sure this clutch would keep me entertained for very long. I do like the casual feel of the clutch, but I am not sure I am a fan of much else. Over time, I worry that the wicker might start to fray and the last thing I want is to be carrying a handbag that could potentially snag my skin. Again, I can definitely see someone sporting this in the spring or summer, but I think it would be one of those handbags you use a few times and then it makes its way into the depths of your closet. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $355.

So, tell me this, are there not certain things that just remind you of your mother? I know there are probably many things that make you think of her: cooking, a certain dress, her perfume, how she laughs etc. Well, to me, one of my mom’s trademarks is how she carries her cash, ID and credit cards. As soon as I saw the Anya Hindmarch Twin Loose Pockets ‘Spending/Saving’ Pouch, I immediately thought of my mom. See, she has never been fond of traditional wallets, instead she sports a small, compact pouch of sorts – slightly larger than a change purse but smaller than a wallet.

Now, as wallets do, they get old, worn out and need to be replaced. The problem for my mom is that she can rarely find something cute to stand-in for a wallet. Finally, I think I may have found an answer! Don’t be fooled though, this pouch isn’t just suitable for a mom, it’s really suitable for anyone who wants to add a little flare to what they might carry in their handbag. It is a double-compartment flat pouch in metallic leather (leather comes in several different colors) and measures in at 5″H x 7.5″L. I love the detail added to the edges, zip closures and a favorite accent of mine – suede lining. And the great thing, this pouch could be really useful for just about anyone. You don’t need to replace your wallet, but hey, you never know, you might! Buy through Shop Bop for $250.