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It’s in the Bag: Adding Emerald to Your Wardrobe

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When Pantone announced 2013’s Colour of the Year last month – a deep, enigmatic and universally flattering shade of green – I was slightly less than enthused.

Now don’t get me wrong; I adore Emerald! As Pantone so eloquently puts it:

Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty
that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.

I honestly believe that fashion followers everywhere will be pleased with the selection. And designer inspiration is popping up everywhere, as celebrities and trendsetters alike have been photographed in the rich, regal shade. Alas, Pantone, I’ve got my own description of the hue:

Emerald green is just not for me.
Every time I wear it, I look like a tree.

Truly. It’s just much too organic for my liking; I’d prefer a mint, lime or kelly green over emerald any day of the week, especially when it comes to decor and accent pieces. So I began thinking… how can I introduce the on-trend hue into my wardrobe in a non-traditional (but fashionably chic) way?

Then it hit me. Handbags, of course! They’re the perfect way to let the world know you’re en vogue without overwhelming your outfit. Plus, you have the added benefit of incorporating the shade in a small, understated way (think wallets, clutches and crossbody purses) or with a bang! (totes and large carryalls). And so I’ve scoured the fashion world to find my best picks for gorgeous and affordable emerald handbags that will keep you fashion-forward throughout the year.

As you can see, there are slight variations in Pantone’s media – the fabric swatch is slightly more pigmented than the bar logo, and the emerald jewel tone has a little more kelly green to it. Hence, when choosing the right shade just go for a deep, rich green with very subtle blue undertones.

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Comments

  1. This reminds me of a throw back to the 1990’s. Getting my colour draping done and was told I was jewel tones. So I wore lots of Emerald (and sapphire blue, ruby red etc). I actually did get lots of compliments as I had dark brown hair and pale skin.
    I think your point of ‘right shade’ is spot on! Different skin tones and haircolours need different tones.

    • Well Lisa, my mom has dark hair and pale skin and I must say, jewel tones look fabulous on her! I’m sure this colour would be stunning on you!

    • It’s definitely a beaut! I actually stopped by Town Shoes at Yorkdale today to check it out, but the store was in chaos so I ducked in – and out – in about 10 seconds!

  6. Emerald green is my fav colour and I love the look of the soft Legacy Leather Large Duffle Coach.

  7. Although I do like green…my couch is green…but I don’t think I like the hue of the emerald green. I love the purses…great way to in with the trend.

    • Exactly. I could never wear emerald, so this is a great way to stay in fashion without compromising what works for you.

  8. I am thrilled with this year’s selection! Already picked up a few fashion pieces in this colour.

  10. Nice color, I actually don’t own anything green and have no idea how it would look on me.

    • I think this is a great time to try on green, as it’s popping up everywhere! I was at the mall today and so many retailers have emerald green pieces in their window display.

  11. I absolutely love emerald green!! These handbags are adorable. I have many Guess handbags and one is turquoise and I love it. I am just in love with the Pippa bag and want to add it to my collection. I need this bag!!

    • LOL Lee I know how you feel – because that’s how I feel about the Coach Legacy! I even checked it out today while shopping… love it so much!

  14. I am absolutely in love with this colour! I can’t wait to find a gorgeous emerald green handbag and hopefully a belt as well. Stunning!

  21. Bwah ha ha….love your poem! “Emerald green is just not for me. Every time I wear it, I look like a tree.” Really put it nicely and I would totally agree with you (not you personally looking like a tree!!) but then guess what I got for Christmas? An Emerald green blouse! What to do, what to do. It’s so hard to co-ordinate with anything, except black! hmmm black bottom and green top – I really do look like a tree :D

  22. I love Emerald and it goes great with my skin tone and coloring , 2013 is going to be a great year~!

  30. I love love the Modalu pippa bag, the emerald is definitely a color that would have to grow on me though!

  32. This colour is beautiful and I would love it in my bag or shoes or clothes because I like how it looks on me.