With the island tipping heavily to the left today for the Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival, it had me thinking of the struggle a few women might be having right now to finalise their wardrobe, and to decide what to pack/wear that will strike the balance between style, comfort and practicality.

Now, besides burdening your partner by packing his pockets with keys and cellphone and lip gloss, or bulking up your own outfit, there are some pretty stylish options out there. But with style must come practicality and comfort, so no clutches or handbags, otherwise that’ll mean no free hands; so this is a good time to revisit an 80s phenom that’s making a comeback: the long-strap bag.

* The long-strap bag works well as a cross-body bag that will keep your hands free. Do ensure that it’s a small compact choice, just large enough to hold tickets, cash, cellphone and lipgloss. My recommendations include local options by Marcellas James of Cinderella Hats and Danzi Slings by Danielle Vernon. Other great options are available at many hip retail stores.

* A wrist clutch is another great option for hands-free enjoyment. These clutches have a convenient strap into which you slip your wrist up to the forearm to keep close all you need without tying up your hands. You can actually convert your own clutch to one like this by fashioning a sturdy strap and attaching it directly to your existing bag. Or you could attach a thin but strong metal ring to a zipper, then a loop, and then attach the loop to a bangle or bracelet.

* A loop belt. This is something that was inspired by my days as a flight attendant. It’s a seatbelt for infants that has a loop through which an adult belt fits before it is buckled, and when it is, holds the baby securely on the parent’s lap. This concept can easily be adapted for a clutch or small bag by adding a loop to the back of a purse, which you can then attach to your belt. You could also make your own by making a trifold from a nice leather or other textured decorative fabric. Attach loop, close sides and go.

The point to all this is comfort and security. You can enjoy the show without having to worry about your belongings while carrying them in a bag that’s stylish and secure.