A Firm Grip (above)
Working well with more relaxed handbag shapes, clutching close to the chest mimics the elegant clutch of dramatic coat lapels in winter.
Loewe handbag, $3230, from DFS Galleria. Georgia Alice jacket $669. Liam skirt $139.
![](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/5XP5DPX27T7FRWXOWFQX77TWIQ.jpg?auth=23eb7963032c48f151433981bc6452c564acb261a66336f9e9095369ac466b14&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
Elbow Room
Small bags with short straps work well perched on the inside of your elbow for a nod to old school elegance.
Louis Vuitton 'Lock Me' handbag $4150. Julian Danger blouse $205. Juliette Hogan pants $389.
![](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/LXTNXDSDPYUESCVLJCAJ2LEGP4.jpg?auth=98f751ca670f5491949dbdeb6b05be15019ed2fe8504ec202e44706fe36165ef&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
The Cross Body
A detachable strap provides an easy and secure way to carry handbags. This Gucci number works particularly well worn across the body for a youthful interpretation on more traditional shapes.
Gucci mini shopper, $2310, from DFS Galleria. Kowtow skivvy $85. Julian Danger jacket $475.
![](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/WV6BVXJ3GFAAMMMW4XPU7UZWHQ.jpg?auth=44ac5b2914dd3d81903454614f5b16a86936ebc78a6e8a34511dcb42b044acde&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
Over the Shoulder
A classic handbag with a generous strap works well simply flung over the shoulder. Pair an interesting chain detail with a classic leather jacket for the perfect play on textures.
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Advertise with NZME.Stella McCartney handbag, $1490, from Runway. Kate Sylvester leather jacket, $865, and pants $385. Gregory jumper $289.
![](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/GL5PPO6V5Z2XWUE2IUG2UC2BYI.jpg?auth=dcb45b5413cf6c15129ce28f70be0a69ea764c66f502192364b4442fb244cd66&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
The Tuck
Like an oversized clutch, tucking your handbag under your arms gives you two hands free to quickly check messages and for general multi-tasking.
Mi Piacihandbag $300. Gregory jumper $289. Blak Love jacket $289. Kate Sylvester leather skirt $695.
![](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/4FIY55QQBD5UUG5JDLMHTLU2DY.jpg?auth=0a3140415410679c1a2b590a4f835e79d5f997215c68043fb0b9c6396773a056&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
Bag to Body
Large totes and squishy bags carried close to the body signify a mood that's nonchalant and thoroughly modern.
Coach handbag, $605, from DFS Galleria. Gregory coat $899. Kate Sylvester pants $385.
Pictures: Babiche Martens. Fashion Editor: Dan Ahwa. Makeup: Kiekie Stanners for M.A.C Cosmetics. Hair: Matt Benns from Stephen Marr Salon using Kevin Murphy. Model: Jade Woods from Unique Model Management. Stylist's assistant: Anna Lee. Makeup assistant: Sam Dalzell.