Bag Six: The Parisienne Party Bag found a home with a decidedly dressed up fashionista, one with a bent towards glam style dressing regardless of the occasion. The bag shape and construction just kind of rolled around in my head for awhile until the “how” to make it finally came together.
I also played around with the concept of sewing the lining and the outer pieces together as one unit, and then finishing the interior seams with contrasting bias tape. This idea has its’ pros and cons, and I think I will use the technique on some pieces going forward, but it’s not going to become my main method of construction for most of the pieces.
Bag Six is a simple stunner, with a flat base and oval silhouette.
Custom collaging on the front slip pocket and the back panel create a striking design when paired with the multicolored fancy weave. Simple quilted accents, and contrast lining with two interior slip pockets and lobster claw key fob catcher mean you’ll never be searching for your phone, your lipstick, or your keys again.
Bag Six also shows some variation in hardware and embellishment – this is the first time I’ve gone with a slim version of the vegan leather strap, instead of the sturdier multi-layer edition; I also went with a 3/4″ finished width – which is impossible to do with the additional layers if you want to maintain any sense of proportion. Since this is a party bag and not a daily driver, I wasn’t too concerned with the idea that the bag would be overloaded and the strap would fail.
I’m toying with the idea of putting a very simple, single, small grab handle on the top gusset section of the next iteration; I thought about that for this party bag, but then I realized that with the super slim depth it would be hard to do without creating an unbalanced load that could look awkward.
This cute little party bag will likely come around again one day, but it’s probably going to be waiting on either a commission or some sort of small art that is looking for a very imaginative place to live.
Finished size is 8″ tall, 6.5″ wide, 3″ deep.
What the heck makes it a party bag? (you might be wondering)
An evening or party bag is a small, stylish accessory designed to complement formal or semi-formal attire for social events. Unlike everyday bags focused on practicality, evening bags prioritize elegance and often feature embellishments. Size is key; they are typically compact, just large enough to hold essentials like a phone, keys, lipstick, and perhaps a small wallet or cardholder.
Materials often lean towards luxurious options such as satin, velvet, leather (especially patent or metallic), or embellished fabrics with sequins, beads, or crystals. Metallic finishes like gold, silver, or rose gold are also popular choices, adding a touch of glamour.
Styles vary widely, from classic clutches with or without a detachable chain strap, to more structured minaudières – small, rigid cases often intricately decorated. Pouches, wristlets, and petite shoulder bags with delicate straps also fall into this category. The design often incorporates eye-catching details like decorative clasps, tassels, or intricate embroidery.
Ultimately, a party or evening bag is more than just a functional item; it’s a fashion statement that enhances the overall look and reflects the celebratory nature of the occasion. It should be easy to carry, not cumbersome, allowing the wearer to move freely and enjoy the event. The choice of bag often depends on the specific event and the individual’s personal style, but the common thread is a focus on sophistication and a touch of sparkle or refinement.