The Everyday Guide: Why Handbags Don’t Work For Us

Note: Updated for 2023

In my mind — form must always follow function.

This axiom applies even when we are discussing fashion accessories.

I’ve spent most of my working life searching for the handbag  which does not reduce me to a puddle, when searching for something. (Daily life can become so much more challenging when your essential items are in disarray at the bottom of a pit. Travel only emphasizes the problem.) I can only imagine what the person behind me in line must be plotting, as I sift through the ocean that is the interior of my handbag.

Know this — I am cursing my handbag misfortune.

Personal complaints aside, designer handbag sales have dropped precipitously over the years. It is deserved. One reason may be all too obvious — the bags being made just don’t meet the needs of the of those who actually choose to carry them. Pretty handbags simply need to have more substance than being emblazoned with a chic designer’s name.

I’m long over it. They need to do their share of the work. They need to earn their keep. They need to earn our trust.

I have loved and lost quite a few great bags to prolonged wear and tear, which always leaves me with another search for my next “holy grail” bag. This one — which I owned in black, will live in my heart forever — as you could view everything that lived inside at one time. (No digging required.) The straps had ample drop to allow me to sling the bag over my shoulder. (So many of you clicked on the photo, that I’ve identified an updated version here.)

A lost love.

Sigh.

Feeling organized, professional and in control definitely extends to my accessories. Handbags need to really work for their owners. I had a friend who described her handbag search as a grueling “interview process”. I get that. I really do. It’s real.

I posed the “perfect handbag” question to YouTube lifestyle vlogger, Marnie Goldberg. (Find her down-to-earth advice here.)  She shared this, “I think the key is a few pockets — a somewhat structured shape but not too many pockets or you’ll forget where you put everything. It’s hard to say there’s one perfect bag. Everyone has individual preferences.”

Structure, yes! You hit the nail right on the head! I also agree, that each of us has a handbag “soul mate” out there. But like any soul mate, they are not hanging out on the corner for you to discover them. Searching is necessary.

Below you’ll find a few handbags worth considering. They all have what it takes:

• Proper handle drop  for shoulder or back slinging.
• A light or bright lining to avoid “cavernous pit” digging.
• Compartments/pockets for small items. (A divided interior works best, if you can find it.)
• Enough structure (so the purse isn’t too slouchy) for easy “browsing”.

BTW, you should consider a Purse Organizer, if you already have a handbag you love. Find a highly recommended organizer here.

Here are a few suggestions.

What I currently carry:
No regrets with Tory Burch’s 2019, McGraw Triple Compartment Tote in black pebbled leather, shown in the first photo, now discontinued. I have shared some similar bags by Tory Burch below (just click on the links).
Big plus: All about the compartments and they truly function like file drawers.
Another big plus: The leather is thick & tough, so no babying this one.
Minor complaint: The lining is black, so small essential items could hide if not a bright color or in a pocket. (I’ve actually come to hate this over time.)
Another complaint: A bit pricey, although it will last years. I never hesitate buying a good bag second-hand. (Could not find one to share here.)

Backpack lovers:
If you love sleek city style consider Nikleon’s Sao leather/suede backpack.
This young company’s family has had a leather goods business for decades in Greece.
Find the Sao here, along with other beautiful options here.

Love a cross body?
This cross body bag from Everlane has a bit of moxie (and yes, compartments galore): The Italian Leather Mini Studio Bag.
Find it here:

Here’s hoping you find the handbag of your dreams.

Do you own a handbag that really works for you? Please share what you love in comments.

Live.Work.Think.Play shares observations concerning a wide array of topics from running a company — to the perfect fragrance. It is designed to share lessons learned from a variety of perspectives.