Brag the bag

Some say bags are like relationships — some are fun and short-lived and others turn into lifelong partnerships. Investing in the latter ultimately makes the most sense. Collecting bags, of course, when done well, can arguably be considered a form of art. In homage to that, three accessories brand-owners keep us up to date with this season’s latest must-have bag and narrow down a few top styles that will stay by your side day in and day out.

Nefer

Nefer Sehgal is one of those accessory designers whose collection showcases an innovative approach in using exotic and high quality leather, which redefines the handbags and catches the eye.

What do you think is a ‘perfect bag’?

It is the one you rely on the most for style and belongings. Truth be told, a ‘perfect bag’ is a bag that appeals to you.

What makes your bags different and special?

I have optimized the perfect amount of space and elegance with pure leather. Even the detailing is hand-cut from pure leather. I like to stick to timeless styles that can perhaps be changed slightly over the decades to come.

PHOTO: NEFER SEHGAL

Hira Tareen - DJ, model and actor

What kind of women do you have in mind when designing your bags?

My bags aren’t caught in the rat race of fads that you feel you only need to wear once. Each and every one of them has something that catches the discerning eye. They’re practical, colourful, sophisticated and demand attention.

Do you have a seasonal collection?

My collections are both seasonal and timeless. With Nefer, nothing goes out of style, all you have to do is choose something carefully that suits both your personality and the place you’re going to.

Accessorizing a bag is a bit of an art, any advice for 2016?

What you should do is pick something that makes you feel at ease. No matter if it’s a normal day or a special event; your bag should be your best friend. After all, it’s always at your side, isn’t it? Choose something that complements your look.

What sets the style of Nefer Sehgal handbags apart?

I think that would be the fact that each and every bag that passes through my hands. It’s not just that I try and choose only the finest of materials, but also that I make bags that I would want to use. These are bags that are meant to be used and still retain their quality, colour and style.

House of Aphrodite 

Progress has been quite fast for this young company, as it offers a heady mix of accoutrements and handbags, from fur clutches to jewelled purses to graphic bags and more. Marketing director, Anuam Hammad, just opened her second glossy boutique in the capital and aims to continue to steamroll over the fashion establishment in the country and churn out its handpicked items from all over Europe at affordable prices.

PHOTO: NEFER SEHGAL

Anaum Hammad - Marketing director at the House of Aphrodite

What kind of accessories should every woman invest in this season?

This season it’s all about fur, fringe and quirky accessories and anyone who wants to stand out in style needs to invest in at least one of these.

Do you think that looking effortless actually takes effort?

Not necessarily. Sometimes your dad’s jumper, a messy bun and a pair of white sneakers is the way to go, but of course some effort is required to put some lipstick on and find a hair tie.

What sets the style of House of Aphrodite accessories apart? 

All products are handpicked, including the accessories, which add a very personal touch to them. Our accessories are a collection of quintessential must-haves that brighten any outfit.



The three styles of handbags that have to be in a woman’s closet?

Every woman needs a classic black bag, a gold clutch and something  quirky to add the element of fun in her wardrobe. And of course there’s that one bag that contains all the necessary and unnecessary contents that you will probably never need!

Quirky & Co by Sehyr Anis  

Quirky & Co has an interesting handbag collection which includes statement bags that range from bespoke engraved names to quirky shapes and colours that are bold and attention-grabbing like the clock bag with it’s vintage feel and the customised book cover clutches.

What do you think is a ‘perfect bag’?

A perfect bag is an eye-catching stylish one, roomy enough to keep your essentials and light to carry.

PHOTO: NEFER SEHGAL

Fatima Kasuri - Model and socialite

What kind of a woman do you have in mind when designing your bags?

Since we offer a diversified range, our bags are purchased by women from ages 16 to 60! It’s about how fashion-savvy you are, how much of an experimentalist, when it comes to fashion. We have had clients in their mid-50s ordering a book clutch of their favourite book!

Do you have a seasonal collection?

We don’t have a seasonal collection but we do have an inspiration collection. Whenever a new idea inspires us, we do not wait, we start the process of innovation and creativity immediately.

Accessorising a bag is a bit of an art, any advice for 2016?

Make your accessories talk more than your outfit! 2016 is all about quirky and statement accessories.



What sets the style of Quirky & Co handbags apart?

They are very different. And when we say different, we actually mean different. Imagine walking in a room carrying a bird-cage or a piano as arm candy! And we must say it’s an excellent conversation starter!

Which is the favourite handbag that you have created?

It has to be our bespoke name range of ivory bags! They are the most popular ones too! Nothing beats having your own name delicately engraved in gold dust on a mother-of-pearl finish.

What are trends in handbags and what remains constant?

Leather bags remain constant because of their durability but acrylic bags are definitely the new trend.

The three styles of handbags that have to be in a woman’s closet?

Tote, box clutch, and hobo.