12 Statement Bags for Spring That Won’t Leave You Broke

Feb 27, 2017

Beyond the occasional well-calculated splurge, there’s something to be said about being the first among your clique to snag an It bag for a bargain. Imagine the look of surprise from the trendsetting set upon discovering you’re not flaunting some up-and-coming designer, but actually one of your beloved brands. *Gasp.* Ahead, we’re sharing 12 traffic-stopping statement bags — all priced at $250 or under — that won’t leave a major dent in your wallet. As per style criteria, they tick all the boxes (high-quality, trend-right, and wow-worthy in their own right) for no shortage of #OOTD awesomeness. You’re so welcome.

JumpFromPaper Heatwave Handbag

Girl, we see you with your seafoam green, pop art-inspired bag that’s designed to make people stop ‘n’ stare. (Is it just us, or would this heatwave handbag double as a hella cool lunch bag?) Just as the name of this Taipei-based fashion brand suggests, these two-dimensional carryalls are for the quirky-minded.

PRIMECUT Spotted Fold Over Clutch

Day or night, work or play, this multi-purpose spotted cowhide clutch means serious business. Bonus points: It looks best teamed with head-to-toe black for instant styling gratification.

Poppy Lissiman Young Americans Shoulder Bag

For an entrance like “whoa,” you know what to do. Proceed to reach for this David Bowie-inspired shoulder bag with Ziggy Stardust charm. Be forewarned: You’ll have an urge to whip out the plush velvet leopard print flares and a vintage rocker tee come festival season.

Neely & Chloe No. 6 The Crossbody Soft

Enter the elegant crossbody bag you didn’t know you needed, but now won’t be able to live without. We’re not sure how Neely & Chloe flew under our radar all these years, but consider us officially informed. Not only is this classic satchel the *perfect* size, but the cognac hue is beyond gorgeous. It’s safe to say you’ll appreciate the timeless design for years to come.

COS Unstructured Shopper Bag

Minimalist enthusiasts, unite! Embrace the “less is more” lifestyle once and for all with this soft leather shopper tote that requires ZERO effort. Just toss in your junk (err, rather, makeup and “work stuff”), sling it over your shoulder and shuffle out the door with minutes to spare. Can we get an amen to that?

Dagne Dover The Tiny Tote

Don’t let the description fool ya. While this may be Dagne Dover’s smallest tote, it’s still roomy enough to stash away all your morning commute essentials. AKA, basically a working gal’s dream. Thanks to a slew of handy compartments, a three-pocket card case, and a free-wheelin’ crossbody strap, all of your multitasking needs will be taken care of (try drinks in one hand, calling cards in the other).

Zara City Bag With Scarf

This structured city bag was made for the HBIC (that would be you, boo). Usher in an era of smart dressing by styling it alongside a power suit and ankle-strap heels for no shortage of nasty woman appeal. The tickled pink hue and accompanying scarf would do Anna Wintour proud.

Pine & Boon Knotted Crossbody

Designed with the “every girl” in mind, these versatile zippered crossbody sacs — featuring a punched dots design and adjustable straps — will accompany you on your daily adventures, whether you’re heading to the flea market or brunching with the girls. Plain white tennies and a chambray shirt are practically in order for self-proclaimed busy girls who gravitate toward a casual-cool vibe.

Kai Shoulder Bag in Black

Round out your capsule wardrobe with this compact convertible bag that looks way more expensive than it really is. Could’ve fooled us. Vintage mom jeans and Stan Smiths are a must for a trying-but not-trying-too-hard vibe.

LOÉIL Forziéri Bag

Fuzzy steppers, step aside. You’ve had your 15 minutes in the spotlight. Moving onto the next big thang, luxe bags featuring faux fur handles (in trending pink, no less) are officially on our radar. How could you possibly say no to its diva appeal? That’s not even a question.

Clare V. Florist Striped Pouch

For when you want to tote around only the essentials, we recommend this sleek graffiti floral clutch that promises to work its magic around the clock. Think: rolled-up boyfriend jeans and a pajama-esque blouse by day and an LBD come cocktail hour. The bold orange and navy stripe down the middle is guaranteed to turn some heads once on the streets.

Cult Gaia Gaias Ark in Dark Stain

Need we remind you of the celebrity-approved wicker bag trend that freaking blew up last summer? We’re calling it NOW: It’s only a matter of time (cough, cough, spring break!) before the pre-orders start rolling in for this vacay-ready bamboo handbag by Cult Gaia. Run, don’t walk — that’s all we’re saying.

Easy Spring Home Decor Swaps To Refresh Your Space On A Budget

Transitioning your home from winter to spring doesn't have to take a huge effort or budget. A few throw pillows here, a flower vase there can make your home look fresher, more inviting while reviving how you feel about your space. Whether you want to hop on the vintage decor trend or bring in fresh Danish pastels, we have some spring decor swaps that will help sprinkle a dose of happy into your home. First, plan your budget and look around your space. What pieces don’t give your home that spring joy you crave? Stow them away for the season and they’ll be like new again in the fall! Now enjoy the things that truly refresh your space.

Shop Spring Home Decor Here!

ban.do Stacked Citrus Vase

These sweet citrus designs are the perfect pop of color for your spring table or home office!

Folkulture Throw Pillow Covers

The scalloped design on these 18x18 cotton covers are a playful way to dress up your sofa or bed.

Studio McGee x Threshold Natural Wicker Table Lamp

Give your indoors an outdoor vibe with these charming woven table lamps.

Etsy Wavy Wall Shelf

Brighten your walls with brightly colored pastels. These shelves are great for holding books, picture frames, plants and more.

H&M Floral Throw

Spring is still a transitional season with chilly mornings and nights. Swap your winter throws for this fun floral pattern.

Scalloped Multi Border Decor Braided Jute Collection

Pop this jute rug in your bathroom, on your porch, in your kitchen -- anywhere you need a little statement piece.

Poster Store Botanical Gallery Wall

Customize a gallery wall that suits your style -- this site creates one for you or pick and choose your faves.

Lyla Monogram Trinket Dish

Even a new trinket dish on your dresser can bring a little joy to your morning. This monogrammed one makes a great gift for spring birthdays!

H&M Pleated Paper Table Lamp

This pretty-in-pink table lamp is a great way to bring in soft, spring color into your home -- get two for symmetrical bedside tables or go solo on a desk or console table.

Wicker Planter Storage Baskets

These cute and affordable planters are a fun way to freshen up your entry or kitchen -- add plants, cloth napkins, magazines, even mail.

Jungalow x Opal Cotton Sheet Set

We love designer Justina Blakeney's style and here she gives us a colorful canvas on which to layer all our bedding.

Elin Ceramic Knobs

Add new knobs to end tables for an easy spring refresh.

Anthropologie Fruit Candle Holder

These whimsical candle holders cheer up your decor and are perfect for all your spring entertaining.

Chasing Paper x Jenni Yolo Peel-And-Stick Wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easier to upgrade your walls with stunning prints. Try it in a bathroom or kitchen or create an accent wall in your bedroom for this vintage-inspired look by DIYer Jenni Yolo.

Anthropologie Gingham Curtains

We never met a check we didn't like. Gingham is a classic spring look that always feels happy and carefree!

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

Header image via Etsy

SOS Gabriel Might Not Be In 'Emily In Paris' Season 5: "Not Fun Anymore"

Emily in Paris season 4 was the buzziest season yet, and for good reason. Emily's in Rome, Camille was never pregnant, and Gabriel's hair went from très hot to tragique. In addition to the viral response to Gabriel's new hair, season 4 left me pretty sad because after four years of waiting for Emily and Gabriel to get together, they almost immediately break up — and actor Lucas Bravo is just as confused as we are.

Carole Bethuel/Netflix

“The ‘sexy chef’ was very much part of me in Season 1 and we grew apart season after season because of the choices he makes and because of the direction they make him take,” Lucas Bravo told IndieWire while promoting Mélanie Laurent’s Freedom. “As they made him kind of unaware of his surroundings, of the dynamic, always victimizing and always being completely lost in translation and oblivious to anything that is happening around him and being manipulated by everyone, it kind of became not fun for me to shoot or to see a character I love so much and brought me so much, being slowly turned into guacamole. I really grew apart from him.”

Honestly it makes me really sad that a character we all love so much is becoming unrecognizable. But at the same time, it makes me feel a little bit better, because we're not the only ones who feel like Gabriel has changed. And while Lucas has done what he can to bring those early-series aspects of Gabriel back, he says "there is only so much I can do in the limits of a script.”

Netflix

“I tried for seasons to bring nuances but we don’t have much liberty on set," he continues. “It makes me question if I want to be part of Season 5…because my contract ends at Season 4. I really want to see if Gabriel gets back to his fun, cheeky, playful, alive self. Because three seasons playing melancholic, sad, depressed, and lost is not fun anymore. It’s a comedy, everybody is having fun around me, everybody is jumping around, and I’m just slowly sinking into god knows what.”

Say what now?! If Lucas Bravo leaves Emily in Paris, I truly don't know what I'd do. Gabriel is my favorite character on the show! (Or at least, early Gabriel was.) Seeing him move from 30, flirty, and thriving to someone who's consistently in the middle of an existential crisis doesn't make sense within the world of the show. And even though Lucas thinks the show has a "lack of risk," he still loves everyone involved.

“I love the show. It started everything for me. I love the show and the people in it," he says. "With saying that, I feel like I am not being nice or grateful, but when you love something you want it to be…you want the best version of it. I’m not going to lie, I’ve been frustrated with the direction by character is taking. But we’ll see where it goes. The show is not over.”

Just like the show's iconic costumes are all about expression and fun, here's hoping Emily in Paris is able to bring some life back into our favorite chef. Because if not, it sounds like we could be nearing the end of the show's most popular would-they-won't-they relationship. Fix this Netflix, I beg you!

What do you think of Lucas Bravo's dilemma? Do you miss season 1 Gabriel? Let us know in the comments and check out the latest Emily in Paris season 5 news.

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You Won't Be A Wallflower In These 13 Colorful Spring Dresses

As much as we love sweaters, coats, and scarves, there is just something so special about finally breaking out your spring dresses. They're breezy! They're romantic! They're fun! A delicate, vivid dress is the perfect reflection of the way that spring makes us feel after a very long winter, and we are ready to break out all the 2024 trends, from maxi dresses to mini dresses and everything in between.

Take a gander at our favorite spring dresses for the season!

By Anthropologie Sleeveless Draped-Back Asymmetrical Slip Midi Dress

This asymmetrical spring dress is the ultimate piece for donning to dinner parties, dates, girls nights, and even the farmer's market! The bright floral motifs just make sense for the season, and the silky construction of this design lets your look breathe all day long. This midi is a slip-on dress only, meaning no extra buttons or clasps for you!

MINKPINK Florence Linen Ricrac Midi Dress

This solid blue dress gets some quirky, playful charm from the contrasting zig-zagging trim on top, which is just the thing your wardrobe needs for springtime. You can have all the fun with this midi dress, since it fits like a glove with a back zipper and a flexible, stretchy bodice!

Free People Ultraviolet Dress

This spring dress is business in the front, but a total party in the back. The back half secures in place with a gorgeous bowtie and elastic crossing straps for an even strappier effect. The cap sleeves are stretchy and super cozy, hugging your figure with a gentle elastic that moves every which way. And let's hear it for those spring sunflowers!

Gap Fit & Flare Cami Mini Dress

Give us florals upon florals – they're just so fun for this season. This Gap dress is dotted in blooms and bouquets of all colors, so it can easily be worn with the other garments in your closet. The cami neckline is delicate, but secure, adjusting to your perfect fit with two very sturdy adjustable straps.

Tach Georgette Linen Dress in Pink

This gorgeous midi-length dress is saturated in a perfect springtime pink color. The bowties that surround the front graciously recall the coquette aesthetic, which amps up all things girly just in time for spring!

A New Day Maxi Sundress

This tiered maxi dress is the most 'spring' of them all. The fresh light green color is reminiscent of the season's blooms, and it's bright enough to stand out from the crowd. It features an open back design that lets air flow freely, keeping your spring look cool as ever.

Moon River Smocked Bodice Cotton Midi Dress

This adorable midi dress is smocked to the gods! The smocked bodice flows all the way down to your natural waistline, giving it a romantic drop-waist effect. This spring dress would be an amazing wear for date nights!

Lush Flirty Pairing Green and Blue Color Block Ribbed Cutout Dress

The fitted high waist on this dress style accentuates your body's natural shape in the best way. What's more is this pick is doused in saturated blue and green colors to match the sunny days of spring! Pair it with your nearest "It" girl sneakers or multicolor pumps – it can easily be dressed up or down!

Reformation Delanie Dress

This mini dress from Reformation features a halter neck design, which is so easy and breezy for taking on the spring heat. The top is definitely more fitted than it is at the bottom, so you can move about with tip-top comfort. This red and white print highlights tiny little tulips, but you can also shop it in 3 other colorways.

NA-KD Chiffon Drawstring Mini Dress

Why buy spring flowers when you could simply wear them? This mini dress is very much a frolicking in the field style, and we're 100% here for it. The abundance of ruching lets you play freely with your new floral 'fit.

Free People Dahlia Embroidered Maxi Dress

This bright yellow style makes for a quintessential chill-girl outfit for the spring. Pair it with some ballet flats, put some cute clips in your hair, and celebrate the season of spring dresses!

Los Angeles Apparel Heavy Rib Spaghetti Mini Dress

You cannot go wrong with wardrobe basics. This pick comes in 12 colors, so the right match for you is out there. Throw on a t-shirt over this fitted spring dress, or slip into a sheer cardigan for a more flirtatious 'fit.

& Other Stories Flowy Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Please give us all the florals this season. This pick is a solid choice for all-around springtime activities because it fits comfortably. Wear it to Sunday brunches, farmer's market visits, and lazy afternoons of laying out in the park.

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Lead image via NA-KD.

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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See Paris Hilton & Nicole Richie Reunite In The 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore' Teaser Trailer

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie created reality TV gold when The Simple Life debuted in 2003. Their antics were outlandish, but we couldn't help repeating their iconic phrases like "That's hot" or "Sanasa" during random moments in our own lives.

It's no secret the two didn't really act that way, but their 'characters' left a huge mark on a generation of millennials. "I knew what I was doing but the whole world didn’t, so it was kind of frustrating to me to be perceived in that way because it’s not who I am at all," Paris told People.

Even though she may have felt judged, it seems that Paris Hilton realizes how many people actually loved The Simple Life because she and Nicole Richie are teaming up to film a reunion special that'll debut on Peacock as we speak! Here's everything we know so far!

When did speculations about 'The Simple Life' reboot begin?

NBCUniversal Media

Peacock first shared a video clip on Instagram that hinted something special involving Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie is coming in May. A nostalgic TV set with a black and white screen can be seen while our favorite duo's voices can be hearing saying, "Sanasa, Sanasa."

Peacock captioned the post, "New Era. Same Besties. Coming soon to Peacock," and fans could barely contain their excitement. Even celebs like Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry commented on these hot vibes.

Bravo

Then Paris Hilton took to her own Instagram to share more about what fans could expect. She said, "As some of you may know, we are doing a reunion special to celebrate 20 years of our show The Simple Life and it's been so much fun."

Actress Selma Blair shared how much she's looking forward to this by commenting that she's "living for this."

So are we!

What was 'The Simple Life' about?

The Simple Life/20th Century Fox

The Simple Life showed Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie as they basically traded their wealthy lifestyles for 'everyday' living. Cameras followed them from fast food jobs to dealing with getting out of sticky situations they'd supposedly never experienced. Needless to say, it was hilarious, iconic, and instant reality TV gold.

How long was 'The Simple Life' on air?

Peter Kramer/Getty Images

The Simple Life was on air from 2003 to 2007 with five successful seasons. It seemed like it wasn't going to be hit at first, but it defied expectations. By how much you ask?

According to reporting from The Cut, somewhere around 13 million viewers tuned in to watch Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's oddball take on daily life. That's a pretty huge deal if you ask us!

When will 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore' debut?

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

Paris & Nicole: The Encore will premiere on Peacock December 12! The two were previously seen at a Sonic drive-thru yesterday so it can be assumed filming is underway (via People)!

Sporting partial Sonic uniforms, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie added accent pieces that match their signature flairs. Paris wore a pair of reflective sunglasses, silver sequin heels, and added a pink flip phone to front of her blue apron. Nicole wore gold hoops and a pair of slingback pumps alongside her hotdog mascot costume. That's hot (dog).

How does Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie feel about reuniting for a reunion special?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Paris Hilton has expressed how much she loves to be sharing the screen with Nicole Richie again. "I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock. Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her," (via E! News).

Nicole also posted a few throwback moments from The Simple Life on her Instagram, but the most notable one is the video mashup of them singing "Sanasa, Sanasa" over and over. "20 years ago, not only did we become television stars… we became song writers. Happy Anniversary Sill @parishilton #TheSimpleLife#sannnasaaaaa" she wrote in the caption.

What have Paris and Nicole said about their reunion special?

Peacock

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie sat down with W Magazine to let the world know the Paris & Nicole: The Encore show is on its way! Not only that, but fans can expect to see an Opera version of the show they fell in love with two decades ago. Paris said, "The idea of the opera was unexpected" while Nicole chimed in with, "What people need, even though they don't know it yet, is for 'Sanasa' to be an opera.'"

The two besties came up with the idea via a series of texts that started off as ideas between them. Nicole said everything "came up organically" for the two and we can only imagine the memories this brought up for them. OG influencer Paris even talked about how The Simple Life was an "important show in pop culture history" and we couldn't agree more!

Nicole truly wants people to enjoy themselves while watching Paris & Nicole: The Encore and "find the same joy" she had while filming it. According to Paris, she feels what they have is "magic" because "there's just so much history behind it."

It's not every day that you can get to have fun with your best friend while coming up with long-lasting memories that contribute to pop culture, but Paris and Nicole have always danced to the beat of their own drums. Now we'll get to see them in action again!

Watch The Trailer For 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore'

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This post has been updated.

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These 15 Friendsgiving Recipes Are Easy, Affordable, and BFF-Approved

Friendsgiving season is coming folks! And if you have one on the books, but have no idea what to cook, we have you covered. From deliciously cheesy veggies to a healthy take on everyone's favorite spuds, we're rounding-up easy recipes to make that won't weigh heavy on your pocketbook. Take a look through to see the yummy ensembles you should be whipping up!

Brit + Co

Drop Biscuits

Because everyone needs a carb to soup all those juicy drippings on your plate. This 'The Final Table' winning recipe does the job.

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Smashed Brussel Sprouts

Not crazy about veggies? These greens will change your mind. Topped with cheese, chives, and a nice crisp topping, they're extra yummy (and keto-friendly!)

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Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas

Sure this one is a bit non-traditional, but your vegetarian friends will love it. Plus they make the perfect topping to nearly any dish (who needs croutons when you have these anyways?!).

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Roasted Broccoli

Puts some greens on your plate with this holy-grail recipe. Trust us: It's sooo easy!

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Instant Pot Butternut Squash Polenta

Dust off the ole' Instant Pot will this delectable fall polenta. Filled with butternut squash and lots of parmesan you (and your besties!) will quickly fall in *love*.

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Roasted Sweet Potato

Just when you thought you knew how to roast sweet potatoes, this recipe came along. And boy are we taking notes!

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Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Be the friend that brings the booze. This autumn-themed mulled wine drink will warm everyone's spirits.

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Fall Quinoa Salad

If you're designated salad duty, take a twist on it by packing it full-on quinia, pomegranate, and a tangy dressing. Yum!

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Cheesy Pasta Bake

When the temperatures drop, your friends will be extra thankful for this soul-warming, cheesy pasta.

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Spinach + Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole

No time? No worries! This freezer-friendly pasta bake complete with pillowy gnocchi, creamy mushrooms and spinach is super easy to create ahead of time, without taking away from any day-of deliciousness.

Brit + Co

Cheddar, Jalapeno, and Chive Biscuits

Upgrade your biscuits with "addicting" flavors of cheddar, chives, and jalapeños. Pro tip: Double the batch to ensure you have more than one for everyone!

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Keto Cheese Ball

Your hostess will thank you extra for showing up with an app to tide guests over until the main meal is served. Packed with yummy baked potato fixings, it's got an extra "kick" to make it comparable to store bought options. Plus it's keto-friendly... you can't go wrong with that!

Brit + Co

This post has been updated.

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