Change Is Good

Leigh Ann Barnes handbags

After more than 15 years in public relations, Leigh Ann Barnes was ready for a change. Her creative soul searching led to an innovative and fashionable idea: reversible Italian leather bags. Now, she has her own handbag company, Leigh Ann Barnes, LLC.

Styles combine leather with linen, silk, houndstooth, cashmere and other luxurious fabrics. Popular options include a black patent leather clutch that reverses to a tan lambskin, and another with snake-like pink leather on one side and khaki-toned basket-weave leather on the other.

“I refer to it as the ‘Transformer’ purse,” says Barnes. “These bags are easy to pack, can go from day to night, and can be bold or understated. They change with your mood and style.”

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Each clutch, wristlet or handbag can be embellished with interchangeable accessories, including scarves, brooches, decorative barrettes, and silver or gold chain straps that can also be worn as necklaces or belts. Barnes designed most styles with a removable pouch—made from the same material used in automobile convertible tops—that’s handy for stashing cosmetics or other small items.

Barnes’ favorite is the candy-apple-red, patent-leather slouchy tote that reverses to bronze metallic. “It’s big enough to fit a laptop and other essentials,” she says.

Available at Nicole Miller in Center City and Manayunk, and ViVi G. Shoes in Glen Mills. Order online at leighannbarnes.com.
 

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