Fashion: The chain reaction

Gucci autumn 2015 by Glen Luchford.

Make heads turn on the street with some hard working hardware.

Chanel's classic 2.55 handbag is one of those iconic wardrobe staples that never dates and, since its inception in February 1955, the quilted purse and accompanying chain strap has since inspired a legion of similarly chic city bags.

That idea of being hands-free and mobile is an idea that resonates with the clean-cut, no-fuss dressing that's been happening for several seasons now, and this year several designers played with the idea of small but perfectly formed purses slung over the shoulder or across the body for an added adornment to any outfit rather than jewellery.

Chain bags also offer plenty of inspiration when it comes to adding some contrast to an otherwise prim or casual look, and this season's denim separates work particularly well offset by some metallic hardware.

Smaller city bags also allow for less clutter and encourage you to edit the contents of your bag right down to the essentials - phone, keys, cards, compact, etc.

Sure, there are plenty of classic styles for those who like to invest in a sensible bag but, for something a little less traditional, look to the varied coloured prints and textures available. Coloured snakeskin, bright sequins and re-worked monogram prints provide the perfect amount of bad taste clashing that works particularly well for those that like to add an irreverent touch to any look.

The bags

1 MCQ by Alexander McQueen nappa and python skin "Elise" bag, $890, from Runway
2 Chloe mini textured leather "Drew" bag $1402, from Net-a-Porter
3 Topshop mini chain purse, $55
4 Prada bag, $2675
5 Deadly Ponies bag "Mr Tuck N Crepe" in rubber and nappa, $395
6 Gucci polished leather bag, $2630
7 DVF by Diane von Furstenberg "Martini" leather and snakeskin bag, $590, from Runway
8 Mimco "Insignia" clutch, $399
9 Dior black lambskin and sequin "Diorama" bag, $4700
10 Saben "Dash" bag, $420
11 Louis Vuitton monogrammed canvas and calf leather "Pallas Chain" bag, $3200

Main image: Gucci autumn 2015 by Glen Luchford

Stockists

• Deadly Ponies
• Dior (09) 373 4849
• Gucci (09) 368 1138
• Louis Vuitton 0800 586 966
• Mimco
• Net-a-Porter
• Prada (09) 366 7121
• Runway (09) 522 0808
• Saben
• Topshop 0508 TOPSHOP

- Canvas