Here are my picks for the 4 bags you can use for anything and everything! If I had to go through and simplify my handbag collection, I would keep one bag for each of the categories I’m listing below.

Number One: A Camel Crossbody

My bag is from Leatherology and is monogrammed, but any medium-size camel crossbody would work here. This camel color is the type of thing that can go with any other color from black to navy to cream to hot pink. It’s timeless in that way, and I love a small-medium crossbody all year long.

This is a beautiful option for under $20 in a lighter camel color. I love the quilted design!

Number Two: A Tote Bag

If I have a pile of returns, or I’m meeting my team out for a working lunch, or anytime I need to carry around a few more things that I can typically fit into my bag, I grab a tote. I went with a fun choice for these images, but a classic leather tote is also the kind of thing you can buy once and use for years to come. I’d stick with a brown or cognac leather tote, like this one from ABLE or this one from Madewell.
Number Three: A Gold Chain Black Bag

I’ve had this one for years (this is similar!) and will never get rid of it. It can dress up jeans and a tee, or fit perfectly with a dress for a cocktail party or wedding. An alternative here would be a black clutch, but I find that I prefer a bag with a strap! I really like the details and hardware on this bag from ...