CITYist

Sitting on the questionable counter tops of countless bars, restaurants and bodegas, enduring thuds to the shoulders of passersby on crowded sidewalks, toting everything short of the kitchen sink -the life of a handbag in the city is strenuous and, sadly, sometimes very short. Whenever one of my carryalls kicks the bucket, I often fall into a dark place where backpacking gear feels like a better investment than a flimsy “it” bag. Thankfully, the outdoorsy label Ariat is releasing a line of purses that are as practical as they are pretty. As a major equestrian outfitter whose designs employ cutting edge technology, such as shock-absorbing, heel-stabilizing riding boots -they also work just fine for window shopping, just saying- Ariat has always made function a high priority. Their handbag line, set to launch on September 3 with prices ranging from $400 to $1300, is injecting some major fashion into their functional designs. Think color-blocked totes, cross-body and bucket bags crafted from imported Italian calfskin leather with an Italian calf-suede interior lining. Inspired by turn of the century horse bridles, these bags are sure to stand up to whatever your whirlwind life in the city demands.