The Essential Handbag Collection
Men get pockets. We get a handbag.
It’s not fair and it wasn’t always this way, but until we have enough pockets to handle everything a Mama needs to carry with her, we’re stuck being the pack mules.
In fact, did you know women’s pockets are about 1/2 the size and depth of men’s?
Fortunately, until a coordinated pocket uprising leaves us with something useful (and doesn’t add too much bulk to our hips ; ) designers have at least created some knockout handbags for us to carry in the meantime!

Photo by Sai De Silva on Unsplash
Both functional and fashionable, the right handbag really can make the outfit. At a minimum, you need three: a daily work horse, a weekender, and an out-on-the-towner.
No arguments. A big, structured bag is too heavy looking for a summer dress or shorts and is way out of place with a cocktail dress.
Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the right look, but you do need to know what to look for when shopping for one that has quality that lasts.

Photo by Renata Fraga on Unsplash-2
The Need to Knows…
Here are some overall guidelines for purchasing any bag, as well as a few general tips to keep in mind when shopping for the look for less:
- Make sure it’s not too heavy empty. You don’t want straps digging into your shoulder once you’ve filled it with what you need.
- Make sure it opens and closes easily, has a wide enough opening, and will easily accommodate your phone and other items you always carry.
- As for inexpensive bags, dark colors tend to look richer and better mask lower quality leathers.
- Hardware should be somewhat thick and zippers should glide smoothly.
- Unless they are high end luxury bags, prominent logos can actually cheapen the look of your bag. A well done “look for less” could be mistaken for a high end bag if it doesn’t have a telltale name on it.
- If the bag is nylon, the fabric should be thick. It looks more expensive and lasts longer.
- Both the bag and the lining should have quality stitching. There shouldn’t be any loose threads. It’s super frustrating to lose something beneath the lining of the bag.
- If patterned, the print should match up at the seams.
- The straps should be strong and well stitched to the bag since this is where the most stress is placed.
As I said, you need at least three bags, but there are others to consider as well if you’re going for the ultimate collection every girl deserves.
I’ve given you my choices from each category at a variety of price ranges. If the high end bags are out of your budget, take a look at them anyway to familiarize yourself with some of the details that make them expensive. It will help you to more easily identify the best quality for less. Ideally, you can find these bags in person and feel the quality of the leather and hardware, but at least look at them closely online.
(Note: clicking on the following products will take you right to them! If you choose to purchase something, WWTNT may get a commission at no additional fee to you. But don’t worry, being a seasoned stylist, I only choose products I truly value and think will successfully meet your needs.)
The Daily Workhorses:
This is a practical handbag with the integrity to withstand a lot of use. It’s your main bag. You’re looking for:
- Quality that lasts, so buy the best you can afford.
- A classic design is well worth an investment because it won’t go out of style.
- You want it to be big enough to carry what you need, whether that’s a laptop or a baggie of cheerios for the kids.
No matter what your price range, there are a few timeless styles to consider in this category:
The Satchel Handbag:
This workhorse has a divided interior so that you can quickly find what you need. It’s most often structured and perfect for work environments. It often has two handles, one that’s a top handle, as well as a shoulder strap.
- Lauren Ralph Lauren Dryden Marcy Leather Satchel
- Nine West Tansy Jet Set Satchel
- Nine West Paisley Jet Set Satchel
- Brahmin Elaine Croc Embossed Patent Leather Satchel
- A New Day Belted Satchel Handbag
- Strathberry Midi Allegro Calfskin Leather Satchel
- Nine West Gabriella Jet Set Satchel
- Kate Spade New York Knott Extra Large Stachel
- Tory Burch Walker Leather Satchel
- McKlein Alexis Leather Laptop Briefcase
- Nine West Eloise Jet Set Satchel
- A New Day Triple Compartment Zip Closure Satchel Handbag
The Hobo Handbag:
The hobo handbag has a more casual look. It’s unconstructed and generally quite roomy inside. But avoid the temptation to overfill it. The look should remain slouchy, not stuffed.
- Kate Spade New York Knott Pebbled Leather Shoulder Bag
- Coach Lori Mixed Leather Shoulder Bag
- Rebecca Minkoff Megan Hobo Shoulder Bag
- Kipling Olina Handbag
- Coach Polished Pebble Leather Tabby Hobo
- Kate Spade New York Roulette Large Leather Hobo Handbag
- Coach Shay Shoulder Bag
- Coach Polished Pebble Leather Hadley Hobo
- A New Day Zip Closure Hobo Handbag
- Aimee Kestenberg Bali Double Entry Bag
- Universal Thread Zip Closure Pleated Hobo Bag
- A New Day Zip Closure Satchel Handbag
The Shoulder Bag:
The shoulder bag comes in a variety of sizes but should easily tuck under your arm. The iconic quilted Chanel handbag with its double chain handle is one of the originals. The double chains offer a jewelry-like effect and can be separated to convert to a crossbody style.
- Ree Projects Helene Hobo Bag
- Kurt Geiger Kensington Leather Shoulder Bag
- Kurt Geiger London Large Kensington X Tweed Shoulder Bag
- Kurt Geiger London Large Kensington Tweed Shoulder Bag
- See by Chloe Joan Leather and Suede Shoulder Bag
- Tory Burch Small Kira Convertible Crossbody Bag
- Kurt Geiger London Kensington Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag
- Kate Spade New York Large Loop Leather Shoulder Bag
- Coach May Colorblock Pebble Leather Shouder Bag
- Rebecca Minkoff Darren Leather Shoulder Bag
- Kurt Geiger London Mini Kensington Crossbody Bag
- Zadig & Voltaire Rock Painted Wild Clutch
- Longchamp Roseau Leather Shoulder Tote
- INC International Concepts Ajae Leopard Flap Crossbody Bag
- Strathberry East:West Leather Shoulder Bag
A Note About Workhorses:
If you can afford to buy two workhorse bags, get one to go with cool colors like black, blue and grey, and one to go with warm colors like brown, tan, and olive. Ideally, figure out whether you wear more cool tones or warm tones and spend more on that bag, since it will be getting more use.
If you can only do one, a cognac colored handbag (which is burgundy) can handle both warm and cool colors.
The Weekenders:
These are the purses you use for more casual occasions. They don’t necessarily need to be as substantial as the workhorses, but you’ll still frequently use them for hands free outings like shopping and other weekend fun.
The Tote Bag:
This spacious bag in sturdy leather is strong enough to be a workhorse, but in softer constructions, it’s perfect for casual weekends and farmer’s markets. Either way, it’s made for running errands.
- Kate Spade New York Large Colorblock Pebbled Leather Tote Bag
- Rebecca minkoff Megan East West Tote Bag
- Kate Spade New York Knott Large Leather Tote
- Kate Spade New York All Day Leather Tote Bag
- Tory Burch Robinson Saffiano Tote Bag
- Tory Burch Perry Leather Tote Bag
- Calvin Klein Shelly Tote Bag
- Calvin Klein Dilan Large Tote Bag
- Thacker Fran Leather Tote
- Calvin Klein Naomi Large Woven Tote Bag
- Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote Bag
- A New Day Reversible Tie Closure Tote Bag
- Rebecca Minkoff Megan Leather Tote
- A New Day Zip Closure Tote Handbag
- Tory Burch Ella Nylon Quadrant Top Handle Tote Bag
The Pouch:
You’ll probably need a couple pouches for voluminous handbags like totes, hobos, gym bags, beach bags, etc. They keep all the little things in an easy to find spot. They also make switching purses effortless. Many tote bags come with removable matching pouches. You can also use anything from makeup bags to pencil cases. Extra points if they make you smile!
- A New Day Large Pouch Wristlet in Blue
- A New Day Pouch Wristlet
- ThePurebag Antimicrobial Wristlet Pouch
- Madewell Calf Hair Edition Leather Pouch
- A New Day Plaid Large Pouch Wristlet
- Cathy’s Concepts Set of 2 Monogram Straw Pouches
- A New Day Classic Wristlet Pouch
- A New Day Wristlet Pouch
- Universal Thread Floral Print Pouch With Tassels
- Meri Meri Cherry Pouch
- Madewell Colorblock Snake Embossed Pouch
- Madewell Dotted Calf Hair Leather Pouch
- Kate Spade New York Colorblock Pencil Pouch
- Kate Spade New York Floral Pencil Pouch
- Kate Spade New York Stack of Classics Pouch
The Crossbody Handbag:
When you need your hands free, this is your go to bag (think shopping, concerts and amusement parks!). If you’re busty, the strap can annoyingly cut you right in two. If so, try wearing the bag closer to being in front of your stomach than on your hip.
- Botkier Cobble Hill Leather Crossbody Bag
- See by Chloe Mini Hana Leather Bag
- Tory Burch Miller Mini Leather Crossbody Bag
- Ted Baker London Amali Leather Crossbody Bag
- Clare V. Midi Sac Perforated Leather Crossbody Bag
- Madewell Sydney Crossbody Bag
- Frame Le Signature Leather Crossbody Bag
- Coach Hayden Leather Crossbody with Webbed Strap
- Coach Polished Pebbled Leather Cassie Crossbody Bag
- Tory Burch Piper Nylon Crossbody Bag
- Fila Writer Neck Pouch Crossbody Bag
- Lauren Ralph Lauren Leather Jetty Crossbody Bag
- The Marc Jacobs Snapshot Colorblock Camera Bag
- Botkier Cobble Hill Colorblock Crossbody Bag
- Clare V. Midi Sac Leopard Print Crossbody Bag
- Tory Burch Miller Metal Saddle Bag
- Coach Tabby 26 Pebbled Leather Crossbody Bag
- Botkier Cobble Hill Mini Leather Crossbody Bag
- Brahmin Katie Croc Embossed Leather Crossbody Bag
- VR NYC Double Compartment Crossbody Bag
- Calvin Klein Havana Crossboday Handbag
- Kate Spade New York Margaux Medium Convertible Crossbody Bag
- A New Day Zip Closure Crossbody Bag
- Kate Spade New York Catch Wicker Crossbody Bag
The Out-On-The-Towners:
These are the bags you use when you’re dressed up and just need to carry a few things. The workhorses and weekenders are just too bulky or casual for these occasions and outfits.
The Clutch:
Oh I love a clutch! There’s something so chic and feminine about it. Because they are small, you can go all out with design without worrying it will be too busy with your outfit. Think of them as decorative jewelry. And if you hate the idea of having something constantly underarm, many of them come with a hidden strap you can put around your wrist or over your shoulder.
- Rebecca Minkoff Leo Snake Embossed Leather East West Clutch
- Estee & Lily Turn Key Closure Clutch
- Naghedi Rhodes Clutch
- Rebecca Minkoff Leo Envelope Clutch
- Clare V. Stripe Woven Leather Clutch
- A New Day Envelope Clutch
- Clare V. Suede Foldover Clutch
- INC International Concepts Bowah Hands Through Clutch
- Clare V. Calf Hair Leopard Foldover Clutch
- GiGi New York Pink Ava Clutch Bag
- Rebecca Minkoff Leo Python Embossed Envelope Clutch
- GiGi New York Black Claire Clutch
- INC International Concepts Luci Leopard Print Clutch
- Valentino Garavani Rockstud Leather Envelope Clutch
- INC International Concepts Luci Envelope Clutch
- See By Chloe Joan Leather Clutch
- Estee & Lilly Polka Dot Envelope Clutch
- Estee & Lilly Floral Print Beaded Envelope Clutch
- Rebecca Minkoff Leo Animal Print Envelope Clutch
- Serpui Olive Camelia Floral Straw Clutch
- Nordstrom Clara Soft Straw Clutch
The Evening Bag:
These are clutches to the max! Many sparkle with dazzling embellishments while others are sleek and understated. Like special jewelry, they elevate your nighttime look. When not in use, they beautifully decorate an accessories shelf.
- Nina Desyre Crystal Miaudiere Clutch
- Sophia Webster Clara Crystal Box Clutch
- Nina Minaudiere with Crystal Clasp
- Whiting & Davis Envelope Shoulder Bag
- Whiting & Davis Serpent Mesh Evening Bag 325.
- I.N.C. Lindsay Lurex Evening Bag
- Nina Avis Pleated Classic Clutch in Black 45.
- Kurt Geiger London Stripe Envelope Clutch
- Gedebe Jeni Satin Clutch Bag
- Nina Desyre Crystal Minaudiere
- Estee & Lilly Crystal Bead Flap Clutch
- Nina Crystal Foldover Clutch
- Nina Crystal Clutch
- INC International Concepts Maraa Rhinestone Bow Clutch
- Nina Gelsey Crystal Embellished Minaudiere
An Etiquette Note:
Just an etiquette note on these two, when you’re out dining, no matter how pretty they are, it’s not appropriate to put them on the table. They should rest on your lap under your napkin, behind your back, or on a chair next to you.
Or, you can use one of these clever, little purse hooks. They have a rubberized back and open up to hook onto a table top so you have a convenient place to hang your bag wherever you go. Click the photo of this set of four to be taken right to them.
The That’s-My-Jobbers:
These are job specific bags that will round out your collection in style.
The Phone Carrier:
This little gem is great for when all you need is your phone and a credit card. It’s an “out for a walk” bag.
- Tory Burch Miller Leather Phone Crossbody Bag
- Tory Burch Eleanor Leather Phone Crossbody Bag
- The Marc Jacobs Phone Crossbody Bag
- Radley London Phone Crossbody Bag
- A New Day Phone Crossbody Bag
- Calvin Klein Fiona Phone Crossbody
- Rebecca Minkoff Envelope Leather Phone Crossbody Bag
- The Sak Iris North South Leather Phone Crossboday
- Rebecca Minkoff Envelope Leather Phone Crossbody Bag in Brown
- Tory Burch Miller Phone Crossbody Bag
- Tory Burch Perry Bombe Phone Crossbody Bag
- Ganni Print Leather Phone Crossbody
- A New Day Snap Zip Closure Crossbody Bag
- Kurt Geiger London Rainbow Shop Kensington Phone Crossbody Bag
- Boss Crosstown Print Phone Crossbody Bag
- Loewe Elephant Leather Case and Crossbody Strap
- Kate Spade New York North South Smartphone Crossbody
- Mali + Lili Candi Vegan Leather Phone Crossbody Bag
The Weekend Getaway Bag:
It’s the just going away for one or two nights bag. Don’t bother with the suitcase or settle for an old duffel bag. Go away in style instead!
- Paravel Grand Tour Duffel
- A New Day XL Duffel Weekender Bag
- Calpak Luka Duffle Bag
- Delsey Chatelet Plus Duffel Bag
- Universal Thread Zip Closure Weekender Bag
- Lipault City Plume Duffle Bag
- A New Day Zip Closure Weekender Bag
- Ricardo Beverly Hills Indio Weekender Duffel
- A New Day Soft Carry On Weekender Bag
The Gym Bag:
Some gym bags are better than others. With tough tech construction, and just the right amount of compartments, these will get you back and forth, keeping everything in its place.
- Transience Zip Duffel Bag 03
- Transience Zip Top Yoga:Gym Shoulder Bag
- All In Motion 22 Duffel Bag
- Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Bag
- Herschel Supply Co. Strand Duffle Bag
- Adidas By Stella McCartney Duffel Bag
- Calpak Luka Soft Side Duffle Bag
- Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Bag
- Calpak Luka Duffle Bag
- MZ Wallace Jimmy Nylon Duffle Bag
- Boarding Pass Lifestyle Duffle Bag
- Bebe Becca Large Nylon Duffle
The Beach Bag:
It’s great to have a bag specifically designated for the beach or pool. Just leave the sunscreen, magazines, and sand toys (and sand) in it until your next escape.
- Tory Burch Ella Straw Basket Tote Bag Floral Applique
- L Space Summer Days Backpack
- Naghedi St Barths Large Tote
- A New Day Straw Tote Handbag
- Eugenia Kim Carlotta Tote Bag
- Urban Originals Wild Flower Straw Tote
- BTB Los Angeles Sandy Beach Woven Tote
- A New Day Straw Circle Handle Tote
- A New Day Straw Circle Handle Tote Handbag
The Diaper Bag:
This becomes your every. single. day. bag. You need something functional that matches your style (and that Daddy won’t mind carrying!). Don’t worry about finding one that converts to a regular handbag afterwards. Believe me, by then you’ll be ready to see it go!
- Tory Burch Ella Diaper Bag
- Paperclip Willow Recycled Ocean Plastic Convertible Diaper Bag
- Kalencom Featherweight Quilted Buckle Diaper Bag
- Obersee Oslo Diaper Backpack
- Obersee Madrid Diaper Backpack
- Dockatot Signature Clutch Changer Bag
- Petunia Pickle Bottom Nimble Diaper Clutch
- Twelvelittle Love Water Resistant Nylon Diaper Tote
- Honest Baby Convertible Faux Leather Diaper Bag
- Pacapod Oban Diaper Bag
- Skp Hop Greenwich Rose Diaper Backpack
- Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack
- Eddie Bauer Cascade Diaper Bag Back Pack
- Twelvelittle Love Water Resistant Diaper Tote
- Skip Hop Greenwich Convertible Diaper Bag
- Herschel Supply Co. Strand Sprout Diaper Bag
- Nuna Convertible Diaper Bag
- Petunia Pickle Bottom x Disney Mickey Mouse Kit
It’s been awhile since I had to carry the incredible amount of stuff a diaper bag has to hold! I have to say, it’s quite liberating to finally be able to go out once in awhile with just a phone, a credit card, some keys, and a lipstick.
And before too long, our phones will be the only thing we need (I’ll still take the lipstick!).
I’m all for the pocket revolution, but, nevertheless, I’ll always love a beautiful handbag. I hope this guide helps you find one you love as well.
For even more choices, check out the WWTNT Shop.
And if you haven’t already, subscribe! You’ll receive what you need to build a closet full of flattering outfits that fill you with confidence and make you shine.