The Perfect Handbag Collection

Anyone who has ever purchased a designer handbag knows that these aren't just accessories, they're investments. Whether you're spending $200 or $2000, you've probably put thought into the brand, style, color, etc. and said to yourself, "Am I still going to like this bag in _ months/years?"

Picture this: you're at Saks, Nordstrom, Barney's, or your store of choice, and you see the neon envelope clutch that you just need! It's perfect, you think. You're nearly ready to pull out your credit card, when you see that it's over $1000. You love it, but not that much. We've all been there. The key to a designer bag is to make it a classic. No one wants to spend $800 on a bag, use it for a week, and then ask yourself, "WHY did I think cheesy gold studs were a good idea?"

And do not confuse "classic" with "boring." After you read our Guide to a Perfect Handbag Collection, we can guarantee that the selection process for your next designer bag will be an easy one. Or, if you don't have any investment bags yet, you'll know right where to start! Here are the must-haves:

1. The Everyday Bag
The most important thing to have handbag-wise is a go-to, comfortable, everyday handbag. However, this varies highly from person to person. To someone, an everyday bag is big, black, and quilted. To someone else, it's little, white, and crossbody. (You didn't think that a handbag guide could possibly be the same for everyone, did you?) An everyday bag most likely falls under the category of satchel/top handle, shoulder bag, tote, hobo, or crossbody, and it should be solid colored. Some people go for neutrals (always a safe bet, and recommended) while a pastel or bright colored bag fits better into some people's wardrobes. This bag is easy to find once you know what style suits you and your lifestyle most. Practically every bag you'll find in the handbag department falls under the "everyday bag" category. The key is finding the one for you!

2. The Clutch
You're going out with your girlfriends on a Saturday night, and the last thing you want to be bothered with is lugging around your big black-hole of a tote. That is where the handy clutch comes in! Smaller than an everyday bag, but like an everyday bag, it varies highly in size and style. For some people, a clutch is meant for holding a cell phone, lipstick, ID, and nothing more. For others, that's not even close to enough (if that's you, we suggest an oversized clutch). Whether you want an envelope-style bag, or one with a strap (then there's the additional questions of long or short, leather or chain, etc.) is completely up to you! 

3. The Travel Bag
This is the bag that you want for when you're heading to the beach for the weekend and need a duffle with enough room for clothes, shoes, and accessories for 48 hours, or when you're rushing to catch the red-eye and need a bag large enough for your slippers, neck pillow, snack, laptop, magazines, and other flight essentials. 

4. The "It" Bag
The fun one that you've been waiting for. Go for the floral tote, or the neon boxy satchel. There's just one rule (of course, some people are exceptions - we wish we were one): Don't blow the same amount you would for an everyday bag. That pink and green embellished Valentino flap bag is tempting, and you might want that cute Gucci shoulder bag in bright blue python instead of a more reasonable color, but we're telling you don't do it! If you're going to buy a Valentino or a Gucci, for example, buy one that you KNOW you're going to get a lot of use out of! Don't buy one that's going to be out of style next season - we beg you! (Unless of course you're a billionaire and buy designer handbags like they're candy bars. And if so, adopt us!) For us, the "It" bag doesn't need to be by a top designer. Look for more affordable brands, such as Kate Spade, Rebecca Minkoff, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, etc. for trendier bags. 

To aid you in the fun part of choosing which one is for you, we've provided some links with our favorites for each category. Good luck, and, as always, happy shopping! 

EVERYDAY BAG: Alexander Wang Black Satchel, Celine Tote, Balenciaga Satchel, Givenchy Tote, Chanel Classic Flap, Louis Vuitton Tote, Proenza Schouler Shoulder Bag
CLUTCH: Alexander Wang Clutch, McQueen Box Clutch, Perfect Oversize Clutch, Fendi Pouchette with Chain, Prada Clutch, Studded Rebecca Minkoff
TRAVEL BAG: MCM Weekender, Tory Burch Tote, Longchamp Tote, Louis Vuitton Keepall, Alexander Wang Tote
IT BAG: Emerald Crossbody, Orange Purse with Bows, Perforated and Tassel Satchel, Red and Clear Crossbody, Cobalt Colorblock Tote, Patent Oxblood Satchel