How to Accessorize with a Bucket Bag
How to Accessorize with a Bucket Bag.
Bucket bags are a versatile type of bag that allow you to hold a good amount and still make a fashion statement. Bucket bags can be carried to school, to work, or on-the-go. You can even use one to help enhance your natural figure. Just keep size, functionality, and occasion in mind when accessorizing with a bucket bag.Method 1 Selecting Your Bucket Bag.
1. Choose a reasonably sized bag. Bucket bags can be a fashionable alternative to a purse, backpack, or briefcase, but you need to make sure your bag can fit everything you need. Take inventory of the largest items in your current bag, and find a bucket bag that is at least half an inch (about 1 cm) larger than your largest items.
Look at the depth of your current bag, as well. Make sure your bucket bag will be able to expand in all directions to hold what you need.
If you cannot fit all of your current items in your bucket bag, consider downsizing or finding multi-functional items such as folding brush and mirror in a single compact.
2. Pick your design. If you are looking to carry your bucket bag during the day, try to pick a bag that matches the dress code in your office or school. This may mean picking a solid color bag or doing away with certain embellishments like tassels or large accessories.
If you work in a more conservative office or attend a more conservative school, this may mean choosing a solid color bag such as a black or brown leather or canvas bag.
If you work in an office or attend a school that has a less restrictive dress code, simply make sure that your bag does not have too many embellishment or accessories. Opt for fun patterns or buckles over jewels or sequins.
3. Consider the fabric. Think about what type of fabric you want for your bag based on both your personal taste and the bag's use. A synthetic leather or treated canvas, for example, may be better for those in climates where it's likely to rain, as they resist water better.
Consider fabric combinations, as well. You may opt for a bag that's made of a lighter material such as cotton so that it's not warm when you're carrying it, but you may want leather straps, which are more durable and will stand up better to use.
4. Look for structure on the inside. If you plan on using your bucket bag when you’re out for the day, whether to the beach, the store, or anywhere else, make sure the bag has structure enough to keep it organized on the inside. Look for pockets and separate compartments to keep your items from getting lost in your bag.
If your bucket bag does not have any interior structure, consider purchasing a flexible bag organizer that you can use to help keep your items in place in your bag.
5. Find a bag that fits you. While it is important to make sure your bag is functional and appropriate for your intended purposes, it’s just as important to find a bag that makes you happy when you carry it. Look over different styles and options to see what is right for you.
Consider choosing a basic bag and accessorizing it with clips, keychains, and/or patches to customize it to fit your taste.
Look over different styles of bags in stores and online to see what colors, patterns, and different styling options you like for your bag. Shop around before you buy.
Think about buying a few different bags to make sure you have pieces to match different moods and occasions.
Method 2 Styling Outfits with a Bucket Bag.
1. Use a splash of color. If you are wearing an outfit with more gray scale or earthen tones, use your bucket bag to add a pop of color to your look. For black and white outfits, most any color will work. For neutral tone outfits, find a more vibrant version of a color you're already wearing.
If, for example, you have an outfit that already has browns in it, choosing a copper or ochre color bag will add color without clashing with your garments.
Use your bag as a splash of color for occasions where you normally wouldn't have much color in your outfit, such as white-tie affairs or when you are wearing a suit.
2. Try a retro look. Bucket bags were a staple in the 90's, and bringing them back means you have a chance to play with other 90's style staples. Pair your bucket bag with a plaid shirt and a choker for a more informal look, or with a denim jacket when it's cold outside.
Pick one or two staple 90's pieces, such as plaids, dark lipstick, chokers, crop tops, or spaghetti straps to make a statement in your outfit. Too many will look chaotic and uncoordinated.
3. Go boho. A slouchy bucket bag pairs well with peasant blouses, harem pants, and other flowing drapes. Find a bucket bag with a natural texture, such as one imitating hide or raw silk, to get a dreamy bohemian effect from your outfit.
Overly-structured bucket bags can downplay the bohemian effect. If you are looking for more of a free-spirited look, stick to a slouchy bag. If you're looking to add a bit more structure to your outfit, a sturdier bag with clean lines can help.
4. Dress up your work look. Bucket bags are great to carry into the office because they can often hold all you need them too, but don't look as serious or stern as a briefcase. Pair your bucket bag with a blazer your favorite blouse and trousers combination to add a bit of fashion to your daily look.
For office looks, a structured bag tends to work better. The clean lines have a more professional aesthetic, and a structured bag makes it easier to keep things organized and access them quickly.
