At left, my favorite pick from Sophie Theallet’s nicely priced capsule collection (it maxes out at $109) for Nine West.
In my experience, you buy a ladylike, structured handbag with a bit of reluctance, thinking that you won’t wear it much, but then it ends up being your go-to for just about every event. Or at least that was the case with my much-adored Dooney & Bourke, which was one of the handbags that was stolen out of my apartment in the Great Break-In Of 2010, and which looked very much like this one.
More stunning structured handbags:
Mustard Contrast Triangle Lock Satchel ($65); Deena & Ozzy Crocodile Purse ($38); Elaine Turner Sophie Basketweave Tote ($250)