Introducing Thee Bag Lady
What is “Thee Bag Lady”?
“Thee Bag Lady” is a platform created and curated by Jess Williams who is a Pittsburgh native, creator, educator and lover of all things bags and culture. The platform was created as a way to share her collection and love of handbags and to also highlight handbag designs and designers that are both well known and up and coming. The platform aims to be a space for others to share and showcase their love for bags as well. Come sit with us!
What does it mean to be a “Bag Lady?”
The term “Bag Lady” for years has been used in a derogatory way to define a woman who carries around a lot of baggage with her, or even to shame a woman without a home, but in the world of fashion and glamor today the term “Bag Lady” can mean something much different. A “Bag Lady” is a lady with a strong liking of a variety of a specific type of accessory; The HandBag. Some women prefer jewelry, other women love shoes, and then there are the women who find that a good handbag is the key to every outfit. Redefining the term and using it to her advantage, A Bag Lady is always on point with her attention to detail and her coordination with the right bag to really set off any outfit.
Why are bags an essential part of fashion for both women and men?
“...handbags are a deep physiological need. It’s a desire to organize and contain that which is important to your daily life.” - Hilary Clinton
The bag serves as an all purpose and handy accessory that helps one maneuver throughout their day to day life with ease. For centuries people have used bags as a tool for carrying their essentials on a daily basis while also using the highly functional accessory as a distinctive way to express themselves and elevate an outfit. Even though women are at the forefront of the bag industry currently, men were first documented as the wearers and carriers of bags. They were originally worn around the waist and served the function of allowing men to hold on to their tools, coins and other valuables while also simultaneously keeping their hands free. Even though the overall design and functionality of the handbag has evolved, the core essence has not been lost or forgotten.
Top 10 “Bags on My Radar”
“Some Old, Some New, Some Borrowed and Some Blue.”
Here are Thee Bag Lady’s Top 10 Bags/ Bag Designers currently on the Radar. This list consists of some of my favorite brands as well as specific bags that I have had my eye on and that I think will be here to stay for seasons to come. Let’s get into it!
1.Telfar Shopping Bag- Est. since 2005 by Telfar Clemens, “Not for You, For Everyone”. The Telfar Shopping bag is a fan favorite in the category of an everyday bag. The unisex handbag ranging in 3 sizes and a massive range of colors has become a staple in modern day streetwear culture. “You either love it or love to hate on it.” (telfar.net)
2. Yaito Knot Bag- The Perfect Knot bag to really add a sophisticated touch to any outfit. Created in New York by designers Carlton and Tulie Yaito, the knot bag has taken over and has really brought to the forefront the diversity of a one handle handbag. The team began their use of the knot bag design with paisley print but have evolved into using other prints and materials such as wool flannel, cowhide and mohair. The team has also recently reinvented their knot bag design by adding a longer strap, making the bag more unisex and versatile. (carltonyaito.com)
3. Homage Year Ova Manifestation Bag- The Ova Manifestation bag created by young designer Antoine Manning is a for sure show stopper. Their circular shape and quirky colorways are steadily being recognized and admired all over the internet and his following is steadily growing as he releases new collections. His latest collection of bags were inspired by fruits such as a banana, passionfruit, and a peach, and the blend of colors is perfect. (homageyear.com as well as some available on saksfifthavenue.com)
4. Diesel- 1dr Shoulder Bag, The distinctive metallic “D” and the short shoulder strap have completely taken over the internet. Pictured on tons of celebrities and sitting at the perfect affordable but luxury price point, the sold-out 1dr Shoulder bag is one that is sure not to disappear anytime soon. (shop.diesel.com).
5. Coach Pillow Tabby- Coach truly snapped when they introduced the Pillow Tabby design to the girls. The smooth cloud-like leather and the double strap that help you go from a shoulder bag to a cross body are truly iconic. Coach has been a consistent brand for years but with the Pillow Tabby design and colorways they really outdid themselves. (coach.com)
6. Brandon Blackwood- most known for their “End Systemic Racism” small statement tote bag design, has been sweeping the internet and not letting up in any way when it comes to releasing a variety of bags of all designs, sizes, and colorways as well as dropping endless corky content to go along with them. Their most recent collection consisted of well over 20 designs with most coming in multiple colors. Brandon Blackwood has definitely made a name for himself in the world of bags and is here to stay. (brandonblackwood.com)
7. NAYR Studio Heart Tote- The Heart Tote, Created by NYC Stylist Alaia Ryan, has been released in several colorways and textures and is such a cute statement piece to add the perfect feminine touch to any outfit. This large heart shaped bag is sure to be one that keeps the girls talking. (nayrstudio.com)
8. CISE PBP Bags- We love a bold statement piece! If you have not yet seen the iconic “Protect Black People” bags then you must be living under a rock. CISE has done an amazing job of making a piece that is both bold and thought provoking. With a statement as simple but profound as “Protect Black People”, you are sure to turn some heads and may even ruffle a few feathers but if we don’t advocate for our protection then who will? The brand also donates proceeds from every purchase to different organizations fighting for a brighter tomorrow. (cise.store)
9. CIRIACO Bags- CIRIACO, created by NYC native Ashley Ciriaco gives us very much “IT Girl'' energy. The bags have been released in several designs and materials such as denim, mirrored leather and cowhide. The brand has also crossed over into the clothing realm of streetwear and I’m so excited to see what’s next to come. (madebyciriaco.us)
10. Sister Epic- “Contemporary accessories for functional life + the intentional collector.” Created by Adrienne Guariglia here in Pittsburgh, PA, Sister Epic is a brand with beautiful handmade pieces that are a great addition to any wardrobe. Some of the bags also give the girls the option to adjust the strap making it go from a crossbody to a shoulder bag or even a clutch. I absolutely love the versatility! (sisterepic.com)
@thee.baglady curated by @jessfckyess on all social media platforms.
