Style & Beauty
s g a b d n a H Make a t n e m e Stat by Kerry Andersen
Like many fashion trends in 2022, handbags are making a statement by dipping back in time to resurrect once popular styles with new twists. The summer 2022 crop of carryalls are both large and small but have one common thread – fun! The easiest way to glam up an outfit is by grabbing a statement bag that matches your mood. These are the top style picks according to fashion expert and shop owner Lauren Monroe at Mimosa Boutique in Lake Charles. Small & Trendy
Art and fashion merge in this 2022 handbag trend. Often no larger than the palm of your hand, the petite bag instantly infuses personality into your outfit. Look for pops of neon color, architectural top handles, ornate trim, and interesting geometric shapes. Consider a tiny square clutch embellished with pearls or a kidney bean shaped bag with acrylic straps. What these small bags fail to offer in space for toting your stuff, they shine in delivering fashionable moments to accentuate your outfit. So, pare down to the basics and grab hold of this tiny trend! 70
Thrive Magazine for Better Living • May 2022
Oversized Catch-All’s
Summer trips to the park and beach scream for a large tote to capture towels, sunscreen, snacks and all the trappings of leisure. This year’s large totes deliver on both form and function. Look for durable fabrics like cotton, canvas, and linen. For the ultimate in carefree convenience, grab an oversized tote (the bigger the better) made from neoprene for durability and ease of cleaning. The Original Jelly Bag of the 90’s is back in bright colors; perfect for concerts and ball games. Or choose an option from Consuela made with easy to clean mesh fabric. The large squared off waterproof Bogg Bag will continue to be a top pick this season delivering loads of storage on-the-go and made with an easily washable material. Bottom line: summer is carefree, and your bag should be too!
Beaded Clutches
Arts and crafts meet high fashion with the most colorful handbag trend of 2022. Boutique shelves are bursting with pouches and bags in all sizes covered in ornate beaded patterns reminiscent of colorful candy. From intricate chevron patterns to more whimsical butterflies and flowers, there is something for every interest. Add a bit of personality to your outfit by choosing beads that spell out your favorite saying, college name or hobby. This trend is full on fun and appropriate for all ages. Pro tip: they make great makeup bags too!
Stylish Straw Bags
The straw bag signals the start of summer and carefree vacations. This woven option in rattan, wicker or raffia is casual yet gets the job done. This year, you’ll find stylish straw bags in every shape and size (think small picnic basket) but also in unexpected pops of color like rose, light green and yellow. Every wardrobe needs one! For extra fashionista points, grab a shell shaped straw bag with wooden handles – it’s the of-the-moment profile that delivers a dose of sophistication to your outfit along with summer casual vibes. Even high-end brands are getting in on the woven trend this season offering up an elevated take on the typical straw bag.
Bucket Bag
Whether structured or slouchy, the bucket bag is – well – on the bucket list for many fashionistas this season. The silhouette was spotted on every fashion runway and is now filling up boutique shelves. The shape is iconic but perhaps it’s the roominess that has women gravitating toward this shape time and again. Fill it to the top with your one-the-go items and then simply cinch the drawstring. It’s that easy! Mimosa Boutique is located at 3125 Ernest Street, Lake Charles or online at mimosa-boutique.com and features all the top fashion trends in handbags, hair accessories and clothing.
