The New Louis Vuitton Bags Are More Practical Than They Look

I only brought two bags to Paris for fashion week. (They were the only two bags I carried during New York Fashion Week, too.) Small, structured, and with a handle that is only long enough for a close, tight-knuckled grip, this isn't necessarily the most user-friendly bag style. Still, it was the most practical bag for my purposes. Why? Because it matches everything, pulls every outfit together, and it's unique. Louis Vuitton's fall '15 handbag collection is hip to my tricks — and it's taking "ladylike" to the next level. 

The stunning bags that debuted on the fall '15 runways yesterday remixed old makeup- and luggage-case shapes, this time making them appropriate for all-day (and night) toting. Rather than using the monogram of the brand, you can emboss the bags with your own moniker or symbols. And, the bags come in futuristic textures and shades, instead of the classic Vuitton brown-and-beige combo. The clear and silver versions stand out the most — but we'd take taupe, pink, or orange any day.

As for the shape: Yes, it's boxy — but it has its perks. Not only does the structure lend itself to carrying lots of things that you wouldn't expect to fit in a handbag; it also sits up on its own, meaning no more having to sling it over your chair. Plus, since the bag itself looks proper, it pairs well with a low-key outfit (hi, leather biker jacket). Unless, of course, you've also invested in a head-to-toe look from the Louis Vuitton show. That's cool, too.