Some New York City days are so perfect they need to be recorded in history. For me, that means writing about them here on Florré. You see, I’ve been eyeing this Toteme T-Lock Clutch for months, and when I awoke this morning with the sun beaming, the November temperatures oddly high, and no pressing manners on my agenda, I knew today was the day. I didn’t fret my feet towards the Toteme flagship store in Soho — no, I first enjoyed a glorious morning walk at the park with my dog, sweated it out at the gym (for the first time in a month!), took a hot shower, and then dressed for the occasion. Because any big purchase that you spent months planning over deserves a good outfit to go with it.

Let’s backtrack for a second and introduce the brand. You probably already know the Swedish designer for its minimalist, quiet luxury appeal. Its chic flip flops were on every person’s wishlist over the summer, and when we’re not drooling over its scarf jacket (that arguably gave the brand its fame) or pining over the riding boot, we’re marveling at how seemingly simple designs could exude such elegance. I give props to any brand that can make singular lines, minimal colors, and sleek silhouettes look so high-end. Despite me already wearing a black turtleneck to the store, I was tempted to swap it with the same (but not same at all) black turtleneck hanging on the rack.

Inside Totemes flagship store in soho.png

Instead of shooting straight to my target (the clutch), I took my time strolling around and picking up a few additional items to try. I try to keep my big money purchases to just bags and shoes at this stage in my life, but the clothes — ohhhh the clothes were luring me in. I picked up a drapey V-neck shirt, a chunky sweater, and an espresso barn jacket (they are trending right now) on my way to the fitting room.

Needless to say I fell in love with them all. It’s hard not to, when each piece is so clearly made with great attention, expertise, and care. My grandmother was a designer herself, and I could practically see her spirit nodding in approval (quite a big feat, if you knew my grandmother…). I laid these pieces aside to the kind sales assistant as I made my way back into the gracefully designed store, where I picked up one more item: the croc slingback. I almost ditched my entire mission to run into the sunset with these heels. I have a weak spot for kitten heels and these just did it for me.

I used what little self control I had and put the shoes aside for another day, maneuvering to the T-lock clutch at last. She was as beautiful as I remembered. The sleek black leather, suede interior, and overall minimalist design give her a timeless appeal — it’s exactly this type of appeal I always gravitate towards, especially with big purchases. I had been wanting a clutch for a while now and I have come across none that exude as much sophistication as this precious piece. So with only a tiny twinge in my heart, I tapped that credit card and took home the new baby, at last.