I've been keeping an eye out for a new daily-type handbag. I carry my grey Bao Bao backpack a lot, but sometimes it's not the right thing. I have a few other bags, and I'm never at a loss for *something* to carry, but a lot of the time I feel like I'm settling and am thinking I may be in the market for a good, versatile, classic-ish but distinctive bag, in black or maybe dark brown.

My requirements are pretty ironclad. Size needs to accommodate my daily needs, the material can't be stiff or scratchy, the hardware needs to be silver, gunmetal or invisible/black. I am looking for a magical balance of structure and softness. Not bulky, but also not so flat and soft that it collapses to nothing when it's not filled (although my Bao Bao does that). Something with a bit of interest in terms of shape or vibe. Nothing too precious or delicate. Something that can be worn on the shoulder easily. And not too dressy or too casual.

I've looked at a number of totes (not large ones), and some of them are so interesting... until I realize they are simply open at the top. It seems more and more bags these days just flop open, and I don't like that. I assume it's a cost-saving measure (although these are not cheap bags I'm looking at!). Has anyone else noticed this?