Rory and I held off on honeymooning until two months after our wedding, and I was STILL so frazzled that I did a crap job of packing for our trip, two weeks in Italy. Not only did I pack sundresses for days that were forecasted in the mid-60s—oops!—I also only packed one purse, a way-too-small leather shoulder bag that annoyed me for most of the two weeks. Until I started buying up "honeymoon handbags" to fill in the gaps, that is. Not the worst thing to do, when you find yourself in Italy, but I wish I had planned ahead when I was still stateside.
So for those of you who still have your honeymoon ahead of you, here's my definitive guide to honeymoon handbags—or purses for any big trip. The first two bags are faux leather, which I like for traveling, because I'm even more clumsy when I'm away from home, dumping cappuccinos on my lap, and whatnot.
Honeymoon Bag 1: Big Ol' Satchel This is the bag you carry on the plane. (Or the one that rides shotgun with you, if you're road tripping.) It has space to stash your phone, iPad, trashy mags, H20—after you go through security—and a scarf that can double as a blanket. It's also big enough for a day trip to the beach or to schlep poolside, once you arrive at your destination. St. Moritz Double Handle from Olivia + Joy, $98.
Honeymoon Bag 2: Small Crossbody When you're spending an afternoon at a museum or running out for a quick bite. You don't need a bag that's big enough to carry the kitchen sink—just your sunglasses, some cash, and maybe a map. (The "crossbody" part is key, because you want to be able to carry your bag securely without it sliding off your shoulder while you're walking around playing tourist.) Forever Cool Faux Croc Crossbody in Wine from Forever 21, $24.80.
Honeymoon Bag 3: Clutch With a Wrist Strap This doubles as your wallet and fits inside Bags 1 and 2. Tuck your lipgloss inside and you're good for dinner and dancing. Use the wrist strap while you're standing with a drink and you won't have to do the awkward juggling thing with your bag, your beverage, and your sweater, or whatever. Sydney Zip Clutch from Fossil, $65.
Where are you honeymooning? Have you thought about what purses you'll pack?
I'm obsessed with the color of the Olivia + Joy bag. Want.