Here, I’m wearing the Anouk belt bag by Akris, in black metallic pebbled leather. You know I’m far more committed to timeless classics than fleeting trends in our email inboxes, but for me the Anouk belt bag feels different. I feel like… it’s not going anywhere—except wherever I take it affixed to my midsection. (Side note: I have a midsection again, YAY.)

Another reason I feel confident in this particular bag is its versatility, so you can invest easy.  The metallic leather is a fun way to spice up a casual daytime look, but its transition to evening-wear is even more seamless. Obviously, it works brilliantly as a belt bag, as I’ve styled here, but it can also be worn cross-body with an expanded strap. To dress it way up, the strap detaches, and the bag becomes an envelope clutch. You know how much I love a good multitasker, and this, my friends, is a very good multitasker.

I’ve always loved hands-free options, but since becoming a mom, I feel like hands-free as a perk just became a primary purchase incentive. You mean, I can carry everything I need and also have both hands to manage the logistics of me and my mini in and out of cabs, coffee shops, the pediatrician, and back home again? Take my money and run. 

There’s also a fun opportunity to mix volumes when working with smaller belt bags this fall. It’s the perfect waist-cincher to layer over an oversized blazer or a voluminous dress like the one I’m wearing today. The statement sleeves and cinched waist give beautifully wearable volume to this Rosie Assoulin dress, and by “belting” the dress with the Akris Anouk bag, I’m creating balance (and also having a little fun). The sharper edges to the bag, sandals, and even the shades I’m wearing here also give a nice contrast to the cloud-like nature of the dress—it’s all about balance.

You’ve likely already got your work bag situation in hand for fall. So take this opportunity to look into a statement-making bag that’s also going to offer you versatility, practicality and polish throughout your closet. I’d start here if I were you.