Whether you’re looking for a bag to take on vacation or simply want something to carry your essentials, there’s a purse out there for every occasion. Traditionally, purses have been designed to hold cash and credit cards, but today, they can also store keys, lipstick, sunglasses and other items you might need on the go.
A great way to add personality to any outfit is through your handbag. The best designer purses feel like functional works of art slung over your shoulder, and many offer custom monogramming to up the luxe factor. Mansur Gavriel, for example, puts a structural spin on classic purse silhouettes with elongated straps and puffed shapes. And Cuyana, a women-owned label that partners with craftswomen globally, makes purses that are as chic as they are sustainable.
The Difference Between a Purse and a Handbag
In the US, the terms purse and handbag are often interchangeable, but in the UK, smaller bags that only hold coins are called purses, while larger ones that can carry more than money are considered handbags. The etymological distinction lies in the word purse, which derives from Old English pusa (“bag, sack, scrip”), a diminutive form of the noun bag.
While luxury powerhouses like Chanel, Hermes and Louis Vuitton remain perennial favorites for everyday bags, there are many newer labels that are making waves with their innovative designs. Some are even working to use more eco-friendly materials, like recycled leather. For those who can’t quite afford to splurge on a designer bag, places like Fashionphile and FarFetch sell certified pre-owned pieces in mint condition.
Lands' End Pre-Monogrammed Letter Canvas Tote Bag
$39.96 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lapensa Small Wallet for Women -Bifold Embroidery Flower Wallet RFID Blocking PU Leather with Zipper Pocket for women girls(Black)
$6.29 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Afroyla African Women's Circle Crossbody Bag, Premium Vegan Leather, Adjustable Strap, Zipper Closure
$61.95 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
INICAT Travel Small Crossbody Sling Bags Valentines Day Gifts Women Her Cross Body Purses Vegan Leather Birthday
$25.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Hobo Bags for Women Soft Vegan Leather Shoulder Handbag Slouchy Tote Purses
$28.90 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Montana West 3PCS Purses for Women Tote Bag and Wallet Set Shoulder Satchel Handbags
$35.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
MINTEGRA Women Shoulder Handbag Roomy Multiple Pockets Bag Ladies Crossbody Purse Fashion Tote Top Handle Satchel
$32.39 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=Choosing+a+Purse+For+Every+Occasion|Purses+%26+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_0f056df207b3d724c0c011c6b3205b2c