They hold all of our day-to-day items, shielding our valuables and not-so valuables from inclement weather, damage and theft — and, in most cases, they help complete our polished looks. But with so many types of purses and handbags — different bag styles at different prices — the endless number of options can be overwhelming.
We’re here to help. Here’s our guide to the only types of handbags you’ll ever need, with low- and high-priced options.
And one editor’s note before we begin, the prices listed were accurate as of the date of publication, so please check with the seller for the most up to date cost when budgeting.
The Day Satchel
This is the essential workhorse handbag. A medium to large top handle bag that can hold almost everything like your paperback book or tablet (and your pouch for makeup touch-ups). Try to choose one in a neutral-color leather like black or medium to dark brown so that scuffs and stains won’t be noticeable, because who else has spilled their morning coffee on their bag? Also try to steer clear from types of purses with lots of hardware or logos — those can date your bag.
Skimp: Nine West Joie Dome Satchel, $24.95
Splurge: Kate Spade Cameron Satchel in Black, $168.52 – $219.99
The Day Clutch
A neat, tailored daytime clutch is a fantastic option if you can deal with editing what goes in and what stays out. Smaller pouches are cute and light, but you usually can’t get more than a lipstick and a smartphone in there. Try to pick one that has multiple pockets and a bit of dimension so you can carry your essentials. This is one of those bags you can have fun with — you don’t have to spend a lot on this type of handbag style, so try playing with different materials and colors.
Skimp: Coach Crossgrain Leather Corner Zip Wristlet in Metallic Wine, $54.99
Splurge: Mulberry Amberley Calfskin Leather Clutch in Black, $650
The Crossbody Purse
As we all know, these types of purses give you great freedom of movement while keeping your things close — and it looks much chicer than a backpack. A good crossbody bag will have a sturdy strap that’s adjustable with a front flap that’s easy to maneuver. It shouldn’t be too heavy and should be a medium size — go too small and it’s not going to be very functional, too big and it can overwhelm you.
Skimp: Sugu Crossbody Bag in Suede, $16.99 – $19.85
Splurge: Furla Metropolis Crossbody in Ballerina, $328
The Evening Clutch
Most of us will need an evening clutch at some point, so why wait until the night before a big, fancy event to run out and buy one? The most timeless (and versatile) style you can own is a simple black satin or metallic clutch in gold or silver. This is one type of handbag that should be as seasonless as possible, because you want to be able to hold onto it for years and use it for any event. If you want a little bit of sparkle, try to pick one with a jewel on the clasp. This has a more classic, lasting appeal and goes effortlessly with everything. (Or step out to wow everyone with a sparkly statement clutch!)
Skimp: Jessica McClintock Nora Solid Large Envelope Clutch with Ring Closure, $29.93
Splurge: Tory Burch Carmen Black Leather Mini Clutch, $328
The Straw Basket
The straw basket can be your go-to bag in the warmer months. It’s an ideal summer carry-all and can and should be a little more playful than your other types of handbags (cue colorful pom-poms). Pack it up with snacks and a towel for a beach day with your friends or with your everyday items as you commute to work.
Style icon Jane Birkin made the straw basket famous in the ‘70s when she made it her signature handbag, long before Hermes made a bag in her honor, The Birkin.
Skimp: Kadell Straw Clutch Women Handmade Straw Crossbody Bag, $19.99 – $25.99
Splurge: Mar Y Sol Ibiza Tote in Navy, $149
The Medium-sized Shoulder Bag
Shoulder bags have a sleek and sophisticated yet sporty appeal — and are another perfect daily go-to. Rich leather or textured suede are ideal, but even a neat canvas fabric in the summer can be perfect for a lightweight, weather-appropriate look. The options for these types of purses range drastically, so a lot of what’s worth it is also determined by your own personal style, taste level and budget.
Skimp: H&M Bucket Bag in Light Beige, $34.99
Splurge: Coach Edie Shoulder Bag, $320 – $389
The Chic Tote
Every woman needs a tote, and not just a big bag to haul stuff around in but one that can also look polished and professional. If you carry a laptop back and forth from the office then this is definitely the bag for you. But if you’re not carrying much beyond your wallet, a phone and a small makeup bag, you can still use a these types of purses, just opt for a lightweight one — like in a canvas material.
Skimp: YALUXE Women’s Oxford Nylon Large Capacity Work Tote, $39.99
Splurge: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote in Black, $225
The Casual Day Bag
This is your wildcard, and it allows you to show off your personal style. There are plenty of this type of handbag that won’t break the bank, from a striped hobo to a sporty messenger to a croc patent clutch. On those days when you can have a little more fun with your look, switch things up and work this bag into your 9-to-5 routine. It’s a great way to kick up — and show off — your style.
Skimp: Bungalow 360 Vegan Leather Striped Hobo Bag, $38
Splurge: Rebecca Minkoff Always On MAB Backpack in Vintage Pink, $97.48
The Iconic Bag
OK, no one really needs a designer bag — but if you’re looking to invest in something truly luxurious, you’ll want to make sure it can last you for years to come. Enter the classic iconic bag, à la a Birkin bag or the highly coveted classic Chanel bag.
These types of of purses can stand on their own — perpetually making a statement and outlasting any trend. For example, the Chanel Classic Handbag is one of the most iconic handbags ever designed. It is the LBD of handbags (albeit an expensive one). Luckily, alternate options exist for those who don’t have $5,000 to drop on this beauty.
Skimp: Black Quilted Crossbody with Chain Strap, $26.98
Splurge: Chanel Classic Handbag in Black, $5,800
The Color Bag
Yes, black is always the new black (unless orange is), but sometimes you’ve just got to give in to the joy of color, especially when it can so greatly affect your mood. A great way to use a color handbag is not to match it to your clothes, but to pick a shade that’s on the opposite spectrum of colors you wear to create a contrast.
If you wear a lot of camels and taupes, try a yellow or red handbag. If you wear red often, then try a bag in a light shade of blue. It sounds counterintuitive but it works. And, of course, you can always use color to break up solid black, navy and white.
Skimp: Go! Sac Fiona Satchel, $24.99
Splurge: Kate Spade New York Sam Canvas Plunge in Juicy Orange, $119.99
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