There’s something about the name “St. Tropez” that inevitably elicits images of the glamorous life – Nikki Beach, perfect tans, $48 glasses of Champagne (hard to believe the glitzy, art-filled town was once a modest fishing village). I’m thrilled to find a bag that does the destination justice.
Travel-loving Dareen Hakim’s sleek convertible bag can float effortlessly from lunch dates to hot dates to big trips. Exotic yet approachable, a skinny chain-strapped shoulder is the structured-ladylike look du jour, but you’ll also be tempted to use it as a clutch for instant drama. When you’re traveling, you always need a great clutch for evenings, and this flat shape allows for easy packing – since it’s ostrich-embossed leather, you won’t have to fret about it getting some wear. I would love to take this to its namesake place; the signature hammered-metal medallion is perfect for showing flair while flashing your new tan.
I can’t decide between smoky-charcoal sage and creamy-vanilla moon: either is perfection when it comes to versatility. Lavender is more specific but so pretty for summer. At Dareen Hakim for $415.
Pair with: Whichever color you like, think turquoise stones with gold accents. Kenneth Jay Lane’s 22-karat gold-plated necklace has droplets of aqua cabochons that will make a summery statement. On Net-a-Porter for $280.
