It's in the bag

I'm on the hunt for the perfect handbag. They are like cars, you don't really know what you are getting until you take it out for a test drive. You want something that looks good but is also functional. Something that has room but doesn't look like a minivan. It takes time to find the perfect one. And it's usually through trial and error. You can quickly run out to your favorite store and grab something that catches your eye but chances are, just like the car, you are going to end up paying too much and have buyer's remorse because it's not functional. And don't even get me started on handbags that cost as much as cars! I'm all for having a nice handbag made of real leather but unless you have the bank account of Paris Hilton, you do not need a Louis Vuitton, real or fake.

My perfect handbag would be something that looks and feels good, is colorful but can go with any outfit, has room for everything I might need in a day, and organized. This last one is key. I HATE digging around for my keys or trying to find something while standing in line with everyone waiting for you to search through your cluttered purse. It's embarrasing and makes me feel so unorganized. I'm willing to pay a decent price for this bag as long as it can stand the test of time and trends.

But where do I find this bag? My usual shopping spots have turned up nothing to write home about. Now I'm on an internet search. I have found a few that look like they meet my criteria. Now I'm on a mission to see if I can find them locally so I can take it out for a test drive. Do you think the salesperson would mind if I walk around the store with my items in the purse to see if it's a good fit? I promise I won't accidentially walk out with it!

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1. The Sak - convertible satchel

2. Kate Spade - union square cross-body mini phoebe

3. Matt & Nat - oversized pleated satchel

4. Kate Spade - union square simone satchel

5. Kate Spade - union square opus

6. Anthropologie - much obliged shoulderbag