Top Shelf: 5 Designer Handbags That Are Worth the Money

Libby MacCarthy
Feb 25, 2017

It comes as no surprise that there are some purses, like Dior’s “Lady” and Chanel’s “Boy” bags, that are at the top of everyone’s wish list. But that It-bag status can come at quite the cost — as in, the thousands. But all hope is not lost; there are still plenty of options out there that fit within the budget. For this week’s edition of Top Shelf — an edit of separates and accessories designed to help you ease your way into the wonderful world of designer duds — we narrowed down five essential, It girl-approved handbag styles that are worth the splurge. Trust us on this one — you’ll be reaching for these bad boys again and again.

The Ladylike Top Handle

Tammy & Benjamin Pentagone Shoulder Bag

Hello, gorgeous. When you’re looking to make a memorable first impression or inject a punch of polish into a basic off-duty ensemble, this is the one accessory you want to have on your side. Like Hérmes’ iconic Kelly or Birkin bags, this Insta-worthy satchel’s top handle, clean lines, and classic styling are downright timeless, while the funky pentagon silhouette lends it just the right amount of RN appeal.

Little Liffner Ring Croc-Effect Leather Tote

Your work tote is basically your ride or die, getting you through the week like a bonafide boss. A quality carryall is, therefore, essential (save the canvas bags for the farmers’ market). Croc-effect leather is straight-up timeless, while the silver ring handles deliver undeniable of-the-moment flair. The roomy twill-lined interior effortlessly accommodates all of your on-the-job swag — folders, a laptop, and a change of flats — and makes the transition from day-to-night feel totally flawless.

The Trusty Work Tote

Eddie Borgo Lou Embellished Leather-Trimmed Gold-Tone Clutch

Whether you’re a dance floor diva or a social butterfly with a social calendar jam-packed with gallery openings, swanky soirees, and dinner dates, a haute clutch is non-negotiable. Crafted from polished gold-tone metal, this sleek box clutch is the ideal after-hours partner in crime. It opens up to a mirror for last minute touch-ups, and features a money clip and neat credit card compartment, keeping you organized and looking fly.

The Perfectly-Polished Clutch

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag

When you’re not doing the work thing, a versatile bag that will effortlessly carry you from Sunday brunch to vintage shopping adventures with your crew is so essential. Mansur Gavriel’s iconic bucket bag is the pitch-perfect piece to accompany you on your off-duty shenanigans in style. The only thing that could make this beauty even better? A colorful scarf tied neatly around the strap.

 The Everyday Carrier

Mulberry Darley Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag

Sometimes you just have to pare down, and that’s where a streamlined crossbody bag comes in. Large enough to stash all of the essentials — phone, keys, wallet, lipstick — without weighing you down, it’s the first thing you’ll reach for on an afternoon spent running errands or an impromptu hang sesh with your BFF.

The Colorful Crossbody

7 Outdated Trends You Should Stop Wearing Right Now

The age-old question of fashion is and always will be: what’s in right now? Living in the digital age of TikTok and Instagram, the rate at which the trend cycle fluctuates is vicious and it can be difficult to keep up. Not to mention, the terminology behind trends in a “core” obsessed world is enough to make your head spin; in the last year alone we experienced ballet-core, cowgirl-core, and even… tomato girl-core.

Instead of trying to decode what's currently “in” and what is “out” in the fashion space ATM, we tapped a few expert stylists who have a strong knack for trend forecasting. Below you can find expert commentary from both Liz Teich, better known as @thenewyorkstylist on Instagram (whose following boasts close to half a million thanks to her skillful styling suggestions); and Style Made Simple’s founder and stylist, NYC-based Alison Berlin.

Read on to uncover which fashion trends are outdated, and the best ways to replace them in a manner that feels more current.

​Stop Wearing Skinny Jeans, Start Wearing Slim Leg Jeans

Image via Sezane

“You may already be aware, but there are many who have had a hard time letting [skinny jeans] go,” shared Berlin. However, she kindly made an exception and mentioned that you can “hang on to a favorite pair for over-the-knee boots in the winter but otherwise, it's time to switch to wider leg styles. This can range based on your comfort level and height, but anything from a proper straight leg (for an easy transition) to a full wide leg will do!” Liz Teich offered Sezane’s Brut Sexy jeans as a great stepping stone after the skinny jean addiction that we all faced, whether we’re ready to admit it or not.

​Stop Wearing Barbie Pink, Start Wearing Icy Blue

Image via GAP

Barbie Pink had its moment allll year long in 2023, and we’ve just about had enough. Teich explained that “Barbie pink feels a bit costume-y but icy blue feels like luxury and less saccharine.” To easily incorporate this color into upcoming outfits, Liz suggested utilizing chambray pieces that you likely already have in your closet.

​Stop Wearing Cut-Off Shorts, Start Wearing Bermuda Shorts

Image via Argent

Even if they’ve been with you through it all, it’s time to retire your super short denim cut-off shorts. Instead, Teich suggests opting for a more sophisticated, lengthier short, such as Argent’s suiting shorts. The tailored look is super chic and versatile, so you can dress them up or down!

​Stop Wearing Cross-body Bags, Start Wearing Practical, Roomy Handbags

“I'm not giving [the cross-body bag] up or suggesting it's not wearable given its game-changing utility,” Berlin shared with reassurance, “but the bags to invest in now are soft, larger-scale totes.” Teich chimed in with product suggestions including Songmont's Drippy Tote Bag and Paris64’s Tote, but Quince also makes a high quality tote while still hovering at an affordable price point.

​Stop wearing Dad Sneakers, Start Wearing Sleek And Colorful Sneakers

Image via Adidas

Chunky, solid, minimalist sneakers that resemble ‘dad shoes’ “dominated for quite some time,” says Berlin. She continued to mention an alternative in sneakers with color and detail for a fresh reset. To achieve this look, Liz Teich suggested either Adidas Sambas or Gazelles, and I’m particularly swooning over these retro silver Nike sneakers that are less than $100 at DSW.

​Stop Wearing Ankle Boots, Start Wearing Something New

Image via Rothy's

Alison from Style Made Simple had no problem admitting that ankle boots can and should be a staple for all of us, “but it's time to put them away in favor of branching out into new territory,” she offered. “Flats like Mary Janes and ballet styles are trending, as are loafers.” Take advantage of upcoming warmer weather and try out flats this spring. Our favorites are from Rothy’s because their shoes are designed to be machine-washed again and again to keep them looking fresh and feeling clean. As for a classic pair of loafers, we love the iconic silhouette of this tasseled pair from Cole Haan.

​Stop Wearing Midi Skirts, Start Wearing Extreme Length Skirts

Image via Free People

It’s time to retire the midi skirt and graphic tee combo this spring and opt for something a bit more dramatic and current. “You should be thinking in extremes in terms of skirts — minis or maxis,” shared Alison Berlin. In the off chance of your mini skirt riding up is a deep seeded fear of yours like it is for me, this skort is the perfect solution and a standing staple piece in my closet; the built-in shorts are not visible at all, so it still gives the illusion of being a micro mini skirt. However, if maxi skirts fit your vibe better, we love this flowy, bohemian option from Free People.

For even more style inspo, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Free People

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Hold Up, Did Rebecca Yarros' First 'Onxy Storm' Excerpt Just Tease Violet Sorrengail's True Identity?

Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.

We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.

We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?

I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?

Amazon

I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.

Did she announce the name of book no. 3?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.

Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.

Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.

And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.

There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.

When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.

She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.

When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.

She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.

As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.

However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.

Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.

I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!

Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?

Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing

Onyx Storm

Yes!

TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.

Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"

Are you excited for the release of Onyx Storm? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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15 Going Out Tops That Are Perfect For Spring Nights

With the solstice officially behind us, this summer's calling for a going out top and a little late night dancing. I've got my eye on a few Barbie pink tops and asymmetric pieces that I know will make me feel *bonita* for sure. But I'm here to help you perfect yoursummer style, so if you've been trying to find something to shimmy in this summer, here are 15 going out tops that'll cause a breathtaking scene!

Free People Carrie Crop

Date nights deserve romantic going out tops that teeters on the edge of being ethereal and sexy like this pale pink cropped design. Made of 100% nylon, it's boxy shape will pair well with a silk midi skirt.

Free People Lady Lux Printed Layering Top (Coral Paradise Combo)

This is one layering top we can get behind! It's the perfect shade of coral and even has a thumbhole feature that can take you back to the early 2000s. We know you miss that era too!

Free People Full Bloom Top

Spring is next month so it's only right to have floral going out tops that captures the essence of a new season. This top is another nostalgic nod to the past and features a silhouette that's perfect for a late night of dancing in a barn or at a house party. Slip a pair of denim shorts underneath and cowgirl boots for an effortless look.

Free People Just A Girl Tank

If your friends are begging you to keep it casual during your next outing, compromise by slipping into this cute tank top. We call it the 'casual in the front, but party in the back' top because it's truly the gift that keeps giving.

For Love & Lemons Tia Top

Become a walking disco ball with this cropped rhinestone top by For Love & Lemons! It has adjustable tie straps that'll work for even the daintiest of shoulders.

Image via Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Hannah Seamless Textured Tank (Raspberry)

Just because you're headed for a night out on the town doesn't mean you have to dress up. If you're going to a house or keg party, this Barbiecore pink tank top worn with frayed denim shorts are all you need.

Image via Princess Polly

Princess Polly Daintree Plisse Corset Beige

This plisse corset is designed to hug your curves while giving your cleavage a boost. If you're looking to wear something that's in between chic and sexy, wear this top.

Image via Princess Polly

Princess Polly Janney Top Pink

Fun, flirty and frilly pieces are a must-have for a night of non-stop dancing. The thin front ties will make sure nothing spills out of your top.

MANGO Cropped Top With Sequins ($140)

Image via MANGO

MANGO Cropped Top with Sequins

We don't make the rules, but sequins are a go-to for going out with your friends. Whether you're on vacation and want to hit the trendiest club in the area, or decide to host your own soiree, this top will make sure your outfit is memorable.

Forever21 Twisted Satin Tie-Back Crop Top

Show off a hint of cleavage with this tie-back satin top. The functional buttoned cuffs at the end of the long sleeves are a nice added touch that makes this top feel a little classy.

Sister Jane Tulle Ruffle Blouse

It's almost time to start wearing baby doll going out tops that are draped in delicate tulle! Okay, we're making that up. But, this ruffle blouse is giving us major Poor Things vibes.

Moussy Vintage Cross Over Tank

Love tank tops, but want one that has a dressier feel? Try this crisscross tank by Moussy Vintage! The jersey fabric is comfortable so you won't spend most of your night adjusting your clothes.

Perfect Persona Ivory and Beige Lace Tie-Strap Bodysuit

Call us biased, but tie-strap going out tops are an easy way to elevate your look. You can pair this lace bodysuit with a pair of medium-wash straight legs to keep your overall look casual.

Nasty Gal All Over Diamante Camisole

Your upcoming birthday gives you an excuse to be as extra with your outfit which is why we think this diamante camisole is a no-brainer. It's flirty and comes with a matching skirt that'll complete your look.

House of Harlow 1960 x REVOLVE Burna Blouse

This top will leave others wondering whether you're headed out to grab drinks with friends or if you're more interested in a bar crawl with a new date. As far as we're concerned, you could do both in this cute top that has smocked cuffs.

Let us know which top you're planning to add to your going out wardrobe!

Lead image via Urban Outfitters

This post has been updated.

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WHICH Movie Had Kate Winslet "Sh—ing" Herself?!

Kate Winslet is THE Hollywood actress to me. Not only has she starred in box office smashes like Titanic and Avatar: Way of Water, but she's proven her acting chops in breakout indie flicks and provided mothers and daughters everywhere with eternal Christmas movie nights thanks to The Holiday. But the actress' consistently viral kindness, her dedication to embracing her natural beauty, and her sophistication don't mean she always feels confident. Kate Winslet just spilled on the one movie from her career that had her "sh—ing" herself, and I just had to dive in.

Here's what Kate Winslet had to say about her scariest movie experience ever.

  • Kate Winslet made a name for herself with Titanic, Sense & Sensibility, and The Holiday.
  • However those movies aren't the film she wants fans to ask about!
  • The actress spills on the movies she's proud of, and the one job that had her "sh—ing myself."

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."

Let us know your favorite Kate Winslet movies in the comments, and since we've officially entered cozy season, check out Why The Holiday Movie Ending Is The Most Important Scene while you're at it!

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Here's A New Look At Florence Pugh's Return As Yelena Belova

Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.

Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios/YouTube

Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!

We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.

Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios

And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”

What is the plot of Thunderbolts?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Plot

Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Jesse Grant/Disney

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

Who's on the Thunderbolts team?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Cast

Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.

This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"

Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”

Jesse Grant/Disney

The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”

“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”

Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.

Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

This post has been updated.

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