Ask Allie: Handbags for Corporate America

What types of handbags should the average career woman have in her closet? Also, could you advise me on a classic, plain, black everyday bag?

A career woman should have some sort of tote or satchel that is preferably black and can carry the unexpected – materials for a presentation, swag from a conference, a change of clothes for an after-work event. I wrote about commuter totes here, they are a good choice for this.  I also wrote about career essentials and what to put in your work bag.

I also recommend a subtle and polished looking purse that is big enough to tuck in a tablet, notepad, or even your laptop. Leather is a good choice for it can look great for many years with care and conditioning. A few bags I have seen lately that would look classic now and a couple years from now.  While I show different colors, all the bags featured come in black.

For purses and totes, it’s good to choose a classic color that works with the majority of your office attire (black, gray, camel, dark navy or brown if that fits your wardrobe and personal style). Don’t choose styles with obvious logos or weird textures or color accents because they can look tacky to some and dated far more quickly. A bag with structure will look more professional, and will also do a better job of keeping the contents organized. Test the strap to be sure it will fit over your shoulder even if you are wearing a bulky winter coat.