MyBag's Pre-LFW Party at The Alchemist, New York Street

Hey,

Last week I got to know some beautiful handbags from one of my favourite online retailers a little better.

MyBag invited a few of us Manchester bloggers down to The Alchemist on New York Street in the city centre to see some key pieces from their latest collection.

The Alchemist is renowned in Manchester for its amazing mixology -  I've certainly had some of the best cocktails in town there! 

The drinks on the evening did not disappoint, as we were greeted with the most gorgeous refreshing cocktail on arrival - Peaches and Cream, which came with a side of prosecco. I'm a big fan of the similar but more well-known Pornstar Martini, even though I'm not keen on pineapple, so this peach-based drink was a dream. 

Above: the beautiful Chyaz and Lauren demonstrating the pour

Surprisingly, the food at The Alchemist was just as good as the drinks! We were treated to some exciting and delicious canapés which included pulled pork bon bons, skewered chicken and cheese quesadillas.

I'd never actually think to head to The Alchemist for anything other than cocktails but after checking out their menu, I'll definitely be going back for food - the brunch options sound especially appealing.

The Bags

Oh, the beautiful bags.

The main event of course was getting to check out some of the beautiful pieces on offer from MyBag. 

The spread of brands carried ranges from indulgent heavy hitters like Karl Lagerfeld, Lulu Guinness and Aspinal of London; to more affordable luxury from the likes of Grafea, The Cambridge Satchel Company and Ted Baker.

The bags on display had a decidedly transitional feel, in pretty shades of pale pink and deep burgundy. Rich burgundy is one of my favourite shades and is perfect for Autumn - my favourite season! 

While I could quite happily see myself carrying any of the stunning bags on display throughout the evening, my absolute must-have would have to be the classic Lulu Guinness lips clutch.

I'm a massive Lulu Guinness fan (my last visit to the store resulted in me having to prise myself away with just an umbrella) and while I already have a patent zip top clutch, I'd love to own one of the designer's trademark lips box clutches.

This one is in a beautiful dark red with a matte finish - the perfect pairing for an Autumnal makeup look!

Which piece is your favourite?

  

MyBag Spring/Summer'16 Preview

Hey,

So it's officially Spring - and while everyone gushes over the pieces of clothing they plan on adding to their new season wardrobes, my thoughts haven't turned from getting my hands on a new piece of arm candy after attending MyBag's SS16 Spring Preview recently!

I've always been a firm believer in the idea that it's the accessories that make an outfit and MyBag certainly deliver the goods in that department; not just curating an enviable selection of handbag brands (would you believe it) but also offering a beautiful range of sunglasses, watches, scarves and more.

Being a big fan of the online retailer already, I was definitely giddy to see what MyBag had on offer for the Spring/Summer'16 season.

Their showcase was held at one of my favourite Manchester haunts, Artisan - a casual but classy restaurant filled with interesting design detail. Did I mention the most amazing cocktails, too?

On to the bags!

Photo credit: Garry Finch

Photo credit: Garry Finch

It's difficult to pick out a favourite range! Lulu Guinness has long been a favourite accessory brand of mine (I'm lucky enough to own an LG clutch already) and the new pieces on show from MyBag didn't disappoint with lots of lilac and quirky details. I can't begin to tell you how incredible the lipstick clutch is, there's even a little mirror inside the lid!

I loved the new range from Ted Baker, especially the drawstring bucket style and teeny shoulder bags that would be perfect for the summer's festivals. The large totes from Karl Lagerfeld scream 'fashion' and are certainly eye-catching enough to satisfy the boldest fashionistas. 

However the bags from Grafea were top of my list. Made in beautfiul leather in traditional, minimal shapes but with fun details like metallic finishes, multi-coloured fringe and fur pompoms - I was in love! I particularly adored the baby rucksack in lilac, perfect for spring. I'm soon to become a bonafide commuter a and am on the hunt for a great backpack and Grafea's have definitely caught my eye.

 

We were lucky enough to come away with an amazing goody bag filled with products from the likes of Real Techniques make up brushes, Vita Liberata tan and Wet Brush Pro.

Though I was completely blown away by this gorgeous personalised luggage tag from The Cambridge Satchel Company. I can't wait to take it on my travels!

Which bag trends are you loving for spring?