A woman's bag is her home away from home. What bags will be your best investment? Exactly what shapes and styles are the best combo of form and function? Read on for the top must-have handbags.
For The Workday: The Satchel
If I had to choose one bag style as the most versatile and preferred bag, it would be the satchel. Generally, satchels are handbags that have a top closure, top carry handle, and a flat bottom. They usually come in medium body size, offering the perfect amount of room for your daily essentials without going overboard. I think every girl should invest in a well-made leather satchel with minimal decoration in a go-with-everything color like black, luggage brown or camel.
Drawstring satchel: $149, Stradivarius
Convertible satchel: $977, Campomaggi
For The Weekend: The Tote
A large tote will be one of the most versatile carry-alls you'll own. Press it into service for errands and it's a shopping bag, pack it for the coast and it's a beach bag, use it for your air travel carry-on, or fill it with diapers, baby toys and you're set for a walk to the park with junior. Not simply utilitarian, they're newly hip too - just check out all the trendy bright-hued and nautically striped versions from designers both bargain and couture.
Slouchy tote: $358, Coach
Straw tote: $2195, Lavin
For After Dark: Evening Bag
Every well-stocked wardrobe needs at least one gorgeous little evening clutch. The good news? There are endless possibilities to choose from at every
conceivable price point. Mini-bags, small clutches, wristlets and baguettes — all of these are variations on an elegant theme. My timeless pick? A satin-sheathed flap clutch.
Metallic clutch: $409, Aspinal of London
Envelope clutch: $645, Acne
Relaxed & Casual: Hobo Bag
A bit too slouchy for the office and typically not big enough to tote everything, the hobo is however a perfect bag for just hanging out. Whether it's a boutique-hopping expedition with the girls, sampling brunch at the new café down the block or cheering on the kids at the softball match, the casual ease of a hobo can't be beat. Woven leather varieties, especially in bright white, are currently super-hip. Have you seen my previous post with the Get Punchy Avery bag?
Crossbody hobo: $409, Marc by Marc Jacobs
Woven leather hobo: $525, Diane Von Furstenberg
Handsfree, Worryfree: Messenger Bag
Technically, any purse with a shoulder strap long enough to sling across your torso can be a messenger bag. It can range from tiny (the smallest and sparkliest are great for dancing at the club) to big sling bags. This style is essential for both its
hands-free convenience and the sense of security it'll give
you during long walks on crowded city streets.
Crossbody clutch: $65, Nasty Girl
Woven leather hobo: $523, Tory Burch