A purse is a usually closable bag used for carrying keys, a wallet and other personal items. They are usually made of leather or cloth, have one shoulder strap, a rounded shape and decorative handles.
A pocketbook is a small, sleevelike case with a zipper and pockets that can be used to carry cash, credit cards, receipts or slips of paper. They are primarily used by men.
There is a lot of confusion around the term purse and pocketbook, especially in the United States. The two terms are commonly used depending on the time of day and region, but they’re both derived from different English dialects and dictionaries.
The most important factor when shopping for a purse is to buy something that is high quality and looks good. Make sure it has a strong, theft-proof strap and quality zippers.
You also want to make sure the purse’s design is timeless. Luxury handbag designer Marina Raphael recommends a design that is “elegant, classy and sophisticated.”
Another important feature to look for when buying a purse is the size. The purse should be large enough to hold everything you need to carry, while still being compact.
Lastly, it should have a single outside pocket that is big enough to fit your keys or other small item. This way, you know where your keys are every time you open your purse.
Whether you are looking for a splurge-worthy bag that will become your favorite stylish addition to your closet or a more affordable option that will look and function just as well, there are some great purse brands out there to check out! From Madewell and Ted Baker London to Betsey Johnson and Levy, there are a few that you should add to your list.
CYHTWSDJ Shoulder Bags for Women, Cute Hobo Tote Handbag Mini Clutch Purse with Zipper Closure
$16.98 (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.)
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.)
BAGSMART Tote Bag for Women, Teacher Tote with Insulated Compartment, Large Puffer Work Tote Handbags for Work
$24.49 (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.)
KKXIU Shoulder Bag for Women Cute Hobo Purses and Handbags Retro Clutch Underarm Purse
$24.99 (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.)
higouta Quilted Puffer Tote Bag for Women Large Puffy Carryall Crossbody Shoulder Purse, Lightweight Travel Nylon Hobo Bag
$27.72 (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=How+to+Choose+a+Purse+and+Pocketbook|Purses+%26+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_addb5aa9f5cf97a257e34acf164d5f7d