From the day I started carrying handbags, I have always had a thing for big bags. When I was growing up, one of my favourite bags was what was called the doctor’s bag or the Gladstone bags. These bags were very famous with women, and they were beautifully made with genuine leather. People close to me have never understood why I like big bags. But truth be told, big bags come in handy. A bag such as a Gladstone bag is one which a woman can stuff in an extra pair of shoes, toiletries, diary, keys and everything else. In fact, I always joke that you can find my life packed within the diameters of a few inches of my leather handbags.The Gladstone bag was once a working man’s asset- more especially the doctors and lawyers. But today, it has become a woman’s most wanted accessory. Back in the day, doctors were synonymous with these bags because they were functional and useful in their careers. Today, it is most unlikely to spot a doctor with a Gladstone bag. This is because times have changed and almost everyone goes to the hospital, unlike those days when doctors used to visit their patients at home-carrying everything they needed in a Gladstone bag. And that is why they were later on famously referred to as the doctor’s bag. Thanks to fashion evolution things that were considered for men only, have been transformed to also suit women. From the tuxedos to cuff links- the Gladstone bag is quickly becoming an iconic fashion accessory for women. Not only are they functional but they are also elegant. Over the years, the shapes and sizes of these bags have been changing on a monthly basis, but just recently it has been found to have stabilised itself and been classified as an accessory trend for the coming season of 2012.The recent Fashion Week saw the prominent names in the fashion industry like Louis Vuitton presenting an oversized version of the Gladstone bags in their theatrical Spring/Summer 2012 show in Paris. The Louis Vuitton brand is known for the most distinctive luggage carriers. However, for this one, they steered clear from using the stereotypical LV fabrics and instead designed a cleaner and crisper variety. To compliment the candy-hued clothes, all the Gladstone bags in Louis Vuitton’s spring 2012 show were in muted shades of sorbet yellow, grey and moon white. Gladstone bags have prominent shapes, it is therefore very important to note that they have the capability of overshadowing all other accessories that are part of an outfit. Despite the colour one chooses, Gladstones are predominantly the leader of the pack and you have to give them the credit they demand. They are to be treated like a classic vintage piece that needs to be styled in the most trusted fashion. They’re bold, smart and ooze confidence. The most wonderful aspect of the Gladstone is its dual-usability. One day it’s a carry-to-work bag, and another day it’s the perfect travel companion. Don’t undervalue its space, and pick one that suits your lifestyle. Whether you make it part of your strategically planned wardrobe or the contrary, the Gladstone bag holds a position stronger than what might be shunned for being just another statement accessory. Luxury brands have now placed this bag on the frontline of runway fashion, which means that they are a must fashion accessory for the coming season. kayitesius@yahoo.com
