July 26, 2005

A Nice Package

Hand Maid by Michelle Frantz Clutch-Totes

You show up to work prepared for anything.

Afternoon frizz attack? Like you’d leave home without smoothing serum. No t.p. in the bathroom? No problem: You’re packing travel toilet paper.

Spontaneous after-work cocktails? Foiled. You’re carrying a ratty giveaway from a 2002 beach party.

If only someone would invent a handy tote (maybe with gold trim?) that had a darling built-in clutch.

What’s this? Hand Maid by Michelle Frantz cotton canvas bags have a detachable pouch that can be carried as a clutch. (Practical and seductive? Inspiring!) The carryalls come in solid colors like latte, turquoise, and lime green; the leather clutches come in python and crocodile prints. (Ooooh. Options. You love those.)

These working-double-duty numbers are like getting two for the price of one.

Which is good. That’s the kind of ever-ready quality you can’t get enough of.


Available at Blue Bag, 266 Elizabeth Street, between Houston and Prince Streets (212-966-8566); Miele, 159 1/2 Ludlow Street, between Stanton and Rivington Streets (212-475-9240). To purchase online, go to handmaidbymichellefrantz.com.