The skinny on handbags 
-What to wear when

A HANDBAG, like shoes, is an accessory that can make or break an outfit. There are various types of handbags that ladies can choose from.

The 80s Preppy Bag
The 80s Preppy Bag is a big hit with fans of the era. They certainly do add a bit of a twist in any look. They are a hot favourite at any time of year, because they are light and colourful and go very well with sandals and sunglasses. This bag completes any look, whether you dress up or down.

Straw bags
Whether it’s beaded along the handles, or made from simple colourful fabric, these bags are a must-have in a spring and summer collection. These bags go well with shorts, minis, skinny jeans, shirts and gladiator sandals. They come in stripes, solid colours or prints. Beaded ones create a unique look.

Beach bags
They are large, spacious and frequently waterproof creations that protect your belongings, such as portable music players, books, cell-phones, sun-block and any other item that might be needed while spending the day at the beach. They are also designed in interesting designs and colours to match the bikinis and accentuate the hat and sunglasses.

The Black Leather Bag
Just like ‘the little black dress’, this is a versatile item and an important part of a woman’s handbag collection. This bag will stand the test of time. They come in sleek clutches, vintage inspired black purses, soft shapes, and beach bags, oversized and everyday handbags.

Laptop bags
A modern woman has to make space for a laptop, iPod and cell-phone in her life, and she needs space to put all these accessories in. Today’s laptop bags come in almost any style or colour, so fitting them into one’s wardrobe is not difficult. When looking for laptop bags, consider the weight of the bag and make sure the bag can hold the weight of your laptop. Try and get the lighter and funky bags with beautiful prints and designs.
The famous pocketbook
This bag is very popular among women. It has many pockets, which makes it easier to put stuff orderly and therefore the bag becomes neat and doesn’t look like a jungle. They are quite versatile bags, and can be used as day, evening or even weekend bags. They come in shoulder straps, hobo bags, satchels or bowler style.

Leather Clutch Bag
These are perfect for a night out on the town or a lunch date with that special someone in your life. They come in different shapes, sizes and makes. A must-have in the closet.

Nappy bag
Being a mother does not mean your child’s nappy bag cannot be stylish. The backpack nappy bag fits perfectly into that profile. The child can be strapped into a pram, while the nappy bag rests comfortably on the back; even offloading the car is easy when you have this kind of bag to keep your entire child’s stuff. They may be in a form of backpacks, mini bags, stroller nappy bags and even should bags. There is no excuse for a mother to look sloppy when hitting the mall or chilling with her girlfriends for lunch.
With all these options to choose from, it should be easy to complete your look with a matching bag.

HOW TO STORE YOUR HANDBAGS
Shelves are the best option, as they will help prolong the lifespan of your bag.
Wrapping them in newsprint paper can also help.
Boxes are another good option.
Rolling drawers are great, if you have the space in your room. In a three-drawer cart, make sure daily bags are stored at the top, sports bags in the middle, and evening bags on the bottom.

CLEANING YOUR HANDBAGS
Sponging a fabric bag with lemon juice does the trick in maintaining the bag’s integrity. This can help prevent stains developing on the handles.
Leather has to be stored in a cool and dry place. Wrapping it loosely on soft cloth will keep the dust off, and still allow it to breathe.

Kitchen matters…
RECIPÉ OF THE WEEK: Grilled trout in banana leaves

Photos saved as: ‘Mango Salsa’,  and ‘Grilled Trout’

TO PREPARE THE TROUT:

¼ cup lime juice

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced

Salt, pepper to taste

4 (8 ounce) trout fillets

4 limes sliced thin

Sprigs of fresh cilantro

4 banana leaves, washed, soaked in water and cut into 10×12” rectangles

1 T. extra virgin olive oil

METHOD:
Heat grill. In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, olive oil, thyme, salt and pepper. Brush both sides of fillets generously with lime mixture, and place each in a banana leaf. There will be leftover marinade, but there is plenty if you have chosen thicker fillets and need more marinade. Cover the fillet with lime slices and sprigs of fresh cilantro. With the short side of the leaf facing you, fold bottom edge over fish; fold sides over fish, then fold package away from you to envelop the fish. Secure each packet with three (3) wet toothpicks, or tie like a wet piece of string. Cook the fish packets on grill, about 6 minutes per side. The leaves will brown. Serve with mango salsa on the side. Prior to service, cut the ties and place the packets on the plate, toothpick side up.

TO MAKE MANGO SALSA:
2 ripe mangoes, skinned and cubed
½ c. red onions, small diced
1 t. orange zest
3 finely-chopped jalapeno peppers
1 diced red bell pepper
shot of orange juice
shot of red wine vinegar
¼ of a bunch of chopped cilantro

Mix all ingredients together and let sit for two hours in the refrigerator before using.