The Chain Bag

Handbags are an item that I could easily buy way too many of - I'm just obsessed - but my willpower remains (kind of) strong meaning my collection mainly consists of what I consider essentials. Ok, maybe a few aren't exactly essential. However, when I was shopping the January sales recently I broke my unofficial ban on buying handbags as I came across one that I thought I undoubtedly needed: a cross-body chain bag. 

I'm a huge fan of Sammi from Samantha Maria and think her style is absolutely spot on and this purchase was definitely influenced by her as she has been wearing chain bags a lot lately and they seem to just finish off her outfits perfectly. I usually carry a much larger bag, especially on a daily basis when I'm attending uni, but I really fell for this Zara 'tweed messenger bag' (similar here and here) as soon as I saw it.

It has a slightly Chanel-esque vibe, looking and feeling much more expensive than it was (reduced from £29.99 to £22.99) due to the detailing and heavy chain. At first I thought I wasn't going to be able to fit much at all inside it but I was pleasantly surprised to discover I can fit my wallet, keys, phone and a lipstick inside with a little extra room left. I've worn it a couple of times since purchasing and I absolutely love how it looks and think it makes an outfit much more chic and sophisticated. The black and white pattern also makes more of a statement when paired with basic pieces. I definitely plan on styling it for a blog post soon if you're interested in seeing what it looks like on.

It's safe to say, I've been converted to loving the smaller bag and this has definitely become my go-to for shopping as it doesn't get in the way when you're browsing. I genuinely wish I could use it everyday but I don't think turning up to uni without a notepad would be ideal...