How To Shop For A Chic Everyday Handbag
Oh, how I love shopping for a chic everyday handbag! A stylish handbag is an easy way to update and elevate your outfit, whether you’re wearing old jeans or a cute dress. You don’t have to worry about whether it fits your waistline or flatters your arms. And if you know how to shop online, you have endless choices. Here’s how to shop for your next chic but practical everyday handbag…
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How To Shop For That Chic Everyday Handbag
Before you start shopping…
Know What Size Handbag You Need Every Day
If that cute little bag on sale doesn’t fit your everyday essentials, walk away! Do you need only your wallet, keys, and phone? Or do you also need room for a makeup bag, water bottle, and glasses?
A few years ago, I wanted to elevate my handbag style, so I bought the most affordable bags from my contemporary brands (which tend to be in the $250-$800 range). Of course, the most affordable bags were the smallest ones, which have enough room for my everyday essentials.
Pro Tip
When shopping online, look for the dimensions in the description – not just the height and width but the depth too. Compare it with a bag you already own. Photos (even with models) can be deceiving!
Figure Out Your Budget
I like to use the cost-per-wear method to figure out how much to spend. To calculate the cost-per-wear, divide the price you pay by the number of times you think you will use your handbag.
A $300 classic leather handbag that you use every day for 3 years makes more sense than a $100 transparent tote (remember those?) that you use for a season before it looks outdated.
Coach, STAUD, and Cuyana are three contemporary brands that make classic styles that you can use for years. Kate Spade has both fun and classic styles. For affordable options, try Coach Outlet and Kate Spade Outlet – both have nice quality handbags.
Choose A Color That Works With Most of Your Closet
If you tend to wear a lot of neutral colors (black, white, navy, cream, olive, etc) or denim, a colorful bag might work for you. But if you tend to wear a lot of different colors, you may want a neutral handbag that goes with everything.
If you tend to wear neutral color outfits, choose a different neutral for your handbag, for example, a chocolate brown bag with navy clothes or a cream handbag if you wear tans and browns. You don’t want to be perfectly matched – aim for a coordinated look.
Chic Everyday Tote Bags
Tote bags are usually rectangular or trapezoid-shaped bags with small handles. They may have a zipper or clasp at the top, or be completely open. They may include pockets, compartments, and a key tether or nothing at all.
This is the Small Zipper Tote by Mansur Gavriel, made in Italian Saffiano leather (a stiff leather with a texture). I found this one at Nordstrom Rack, so look out for totes like this there!
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Currently Trending – Bucket Bags
The most current bucket bags are made in soft leather or suede with an open top or magnetic closure. Some have a crossbody strap option. I bought this Veronica Beard handbag at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025. It’s currently available in olive green.
Cuyana makes elegant, simple bags, including the Linea Bucket Bag, which comes in three sizes and with a leather strap for a crossbody option. You can also buy a pouch separately to keep your valuables secure. Cuyana’s goal is to make bags that can be customized with straps and pouches, and used for many, many years.
If you are looking for a more affordable bucket bag, take a look at this Kate Spade Outlet Medium Bucket Bag.
Curved Shoulder Bags
Hobo and crescent bags have been popular – those trends are still going strong. Mine is an older Marc Jacobs handbag.
I’m not seeing this style as much as I used to, but if you like the shape, I’ve found a few options for you:
Coach’s Belted Ergo has an edgy vibe with chunky gold hardware while the Paige Sling has a softer look. Cuyana’s Celestia Handbag has a practical flat bottom. And Kate Spade’s Shoulder Bag has a fun little pouch attached.
Crossbody Or Convertible Bags
I did read an article about crossbody bags going out of style, but for me, they are a necessity. Bonus, if they are convertible i.e., if they have adjustable or removable straps.
Here are some convertible bags that are avilable now:
Where To Buy Your Chic Everyday Handbag
If you’re not sure what you want, department stores are a great place to find new brands and styles. If you shop online, you’ll find that you can narrow down your choices by size, color, and budget.
- Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s are my favorite places to find current handbags and great sales.
- Kate Spade is the go-to brand for whimsical, colorful, and affordable handbags.
- Nordstrom Rack and Off Saks Fifth Avenue have a huge assortment of past-season styles.
- For mix-and-match accessories, check out Cuyana’s system bags and totes.
- Madewell bags have a rustic look and feel. Hobo International Bags are similar.
- For classic handbags, look at Coach, Tory Burch, and Longchamp.
- For slightly edgy handbags, try Rebecca Minkoff or Mac Jacobs.
Related Post: Fall And Winter Handbags Under $500
Tell me, what are your favorite handbag brands and where do you find chic everyday bags?
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