We've Found Your Next Go-Everywhere, Do-Everything Bags From The Outnet - Elle

Photo: Courtesy of The Outnet

We know this scenario well: You see a gorgeous bag online on the arm of an It girl^[1] . You Google it. Bookmark it. Show your friend. Show your sister. Agonize over it. Look at it again. Yet you won't push the "buy" button. If buying a designer handbag^[2] seems like a huge commitment, then you might as well choose a classic one that fits all of your daily essentials and is neutral enough to work for many situations. The Outnet's in-house label Iris & Ink aims to do just that with its first-ever range of handbags, launching on November 11.

After women had been asking the label to create bags for months, the masterminds behind the brand obliged. And they're giving you exactly what you want: The seven-piece lineup ($65–$395) is focused around “no-brainer” (re: practical) styles.

"Iris & Ink is one of the most popular brands on TheOutnet.com, and its customers are always looking for longevity in pieces that they buy, and, opposed to shoes or sunglasses, a practical, well-designed bag can last you for years,” Shira Suveyke, the vice president of global buying for The Outnet, told us. “Each bag was created with functionality in mind^[3] —we tested each style to see how much it would hold, if it could fit a pair of flats, a small umbrella, and a cashmere sweater." There are even iPad pockets built into the outside of totes for easy access to your gadget during travel, and navy, fold-over, calf-hair clutch can be opened and used as a laptop sleeve.

The collection also pays homage to The Outnet's hometown of London with bags named after destinations (Chelsea, Notting Hill, Haxton, and Bloomsbury) with a design aesthetic that embodies those locations. For instance, the Bloomsbury bag's bowler style echoes the sophisticated-yet-hip neighborhood. Colors also give a nod to London hot spots^[4] . “The blue used on the bags is custom-dyed and very specific, representing the navy of the River Thames,” explained Suveyke. “It’s also one of the most popular colors in the Iris & Ink line—not to mention its popularity on the runway.”

Before the new bags launch online, you can get your bookmark tabs and speed dial calls ready, thanks to our exclusive first look here.

References

1. ^{^} arm of an It girl (www.elle.com)


2. ^{^} buying a designer handbag (www.elle.com)


3. ^{^} created with functionality in mind (www.elle.com)


4. ^{^} London hot spots (www.elle.com)