THE 3 BAGS
EVERY NYC GIRL NEEDS

Go ahead: Admit it. Your closet is filled with handbags in every shape and color. But truly, you only need three styles of bags to make your life complete. Check out these essential urban silhouettes, then stop by The Shops at Columbus Circle to bag one of our top picks.

The Tote: Whether you’re a working woman who has to cart her laptop around town, a Manhattan mom who wants everything on hand for the kids, or just a girl on the go who can’t leave anything behind, the tote is a must-have.

Crafted from supple palmellato calfskin, the Taylor Tote ($845) from Hugo Boss will organize your life — in style. There are plenty of interior pockets and zippered compartments to keep all your gear arranged just so. The natural black leather and canvas Signet Tote Bag ($178) from J.Crew transforms based on your needs. The sides fold in on days when your load is a little lighter and expand when you require more space. Looking for a tote that fits your personality? Our new friends at Pop Bag are here to help. Build a tote (prices vary) by selecting from a variety of components, including colorful leather panels that snap together and straps in multiple lengths.

The Cross-Body: A key piece for the urban jet-setter, the cross-body bag allows you to carry all your essentials on you and go hands-free. Plus, it easily transitions from day into evening.

Timeless looks never fade away: Coach recently reinvented its 1970’s-era Saddle 23 Cross-Body ($395) for 21st century style mavens. Available in a range of colors, we’re grooving on the marine blue. Once again, H&M proves that less is more. This small cross-body bag ($24.99) with natural suede detail in dusky green will match all your pastel spring outfits.

The Clutch: The clutch is clutch. Pop it in your tote during the day and be ready for a night on the town. Or dress it down and run errands. It’s simple and chic, just like you, and it won’t weigh you down.

Can’t wait to get to the beach? You will be good to go when the temperatures climb with the palm tree-embellished Malibu straw clutch ($148) from Michael Kors. A detachable wristlet makes it extra versatile. We’re swooning over the hot-pink Alaina ($159) clutch from Ted Baker. Thanks to its ladylike bow clasp and its sophisticated woven detailing, it’s a classic that will never go out of style. And it’s got plenty of space to hold the essentials. Nautical stripes are always on trend. With a touch of sparkle, the Sissi clutch ($245) from L.K.Bennett is perfect for evenings by the shore or in the city. There’s also a detachable shoulder chain, in case you want to go hands-free.

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