What about a little wicker, ratan or bamboo bag?

Welcome garmenta! I am a newbie here too and have already gotten a lot of invaluable advice from YLFers.

Regarding handbags. My favorite accessory line is Hayden-Harnett, so I will pull some summer ideas from them since I'm most familiar with their products:

Cute clutches:
http://haydenharnett.com/index.....=ORYXCLBLB

http://haydenharnett.com/index.....CAMILLEECA

http://haydenharnett.com/index.....CIRCECLMBM

A funky crossbody, going-out bag based on the kisslock closure (not sure if it is your style):
http://haydenharnett.com/index.....STACICBPCP

Hayden-Harnett always has a HUGE blowout sale around July 4, where things are 50-80% off. And if you like vintage-inspired bags, their fall line is to die for. Although, it has more of a 40s vibe, I think.

Anyhow, hope these gave you a few ideas!

How about a classic straw tote in a tight, smooth weave in a light natural colour? I'm currently reading a wonderfully charming, quirky book called Elegance by Genevieve Antoine Dariaux, who used to be the directrice of Nina Ricci. The book was written in the 60s, I believe. She recommends that every woman have a straw tote and actually says you can get away with using that and only that as your summer bag! It sounds like it might be perfect for you. J Crew has a couple of nice ones right now: http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Brows.....awbags.jsp

If you're willing to make an investment (I understand not wanting to pay full retail--I can never afford the bags I really want), J Crew's leather small gallery hobo in white is gorgeous.
http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Brows...../13383.jsp

Otherwise, what about a nude, cream, ivory, white or off-white bag that echoes the shape of the Kelly bag?
http://images.google.com/image.....38;start=0

Hi Garmenta!

Welcome to the forum!

One of my favorite designers is Lela Rose. Her designs are described as classic but with a whimsical twist. She loves to pair together unconventional fabrics. Her clothes are out of my price range but fortunately she has partnered with Payless and has designed a line of affordable shoes and bags. I have two of her bags that she has designed in the past for Payless. Lela Rose is the designer who recently designed the bridesmaids dresses for Jenna Bush.

For an affordable option, what do you think of this retro-inspired envelope clutch? It looks gray in the photo but the description says it's ivory. I've found her bags to be very well made for an inexpensive option. Here's the link:

Almy Clutch:

http://www.payless.com/store/p.....me=Brands+

Good luck with your search!

(you gals rock).

Another welcome from me!

The Hayden-Harnett bags are lovely, and I'll have to watch for them at resale or online. The J Crew has a great shape and I bet something similar is out there at a discount. Rattan and wicker are terrific ideas for summer. I hadn't realized that my vintage Simon bag, which is white wicker with a lucite handle, would be just right for the season. If you remember the Kate Spade wicker bag of a few seasons ago, with natural wicker and leather trim, then you've seen it--it was a faithful copy of the Simon bags from the 1950s and early 1960s! Thanks for all of your thoughtful replies.

Hi, Garmenta!

Sounds like you've found your summer bag. That's awesome!

We "know"each other from another forum. I think that you'll get more TLC here, IYKWIM. With a huge membership that spans the globe, a professional stylist at the helm, lots of different body shapes and styles, photos, and an encouraging/supportive/positive atmosphere, you can't go wrong.

Nice to "see" you again. Take care, and have a great day.