I like having variety in my bags (shape, size, style, color, degree of structure) and am willing to swap them out regularly. That said, I have found some of them to be absolute workhorses. My most versatile one is a medium gray, medium-sized structured, curved satchel that zips across the top with two handles and a detachable shoulder strap. It is simple elegance and plays well with almost everything I own. At two years old, it is showing signs of wear. I am on a quest for a similar replacement. That's how you really get to see what colors the design houses are using. The once ubiquitous gray (fall 2011), has eluded my 3 month search. It goes with all my neutrals, yet is a change from black. Someone once "chased" me across the parking lot and when I asked her if she was okay, she laughed and said she was fine, just wondering who made my handbag! It happened to be a smaller French company with a couple of stores in Paris, but I am not seeing this shade anywhere now, though there is a lot of grayed taupe. Fingers crossed. Whether or not you change it regularly, having a bag that works really makes a difference.

Runcarla - it's really upsetting getting something so precious stolen. I had my wallet (beautiful woven number) in college as as you can see that experience. So that's why I must have a crossbody since I never put it down!! Your totes are beautiful. The coach very elegant and the stripe just so much fun!! I am honestly going to havea to check out the longchamps - too many raves and I've never seen it. Sure it's awesome!!
Una - I think it's fabulous if you have just a couple of bags but they are perfect. Function is so hard to find and then you want the right aesthetics. Kind of like best friends - a couple of perfect ones is much better than a bevy of annoying ones!!
JayS - that is a tremendously beautiful bag and I can see why you love it!! Like great jeans, there are so many areas that must fit your lifestyle and then finding a beauty like that - well there you go!! enjoy you gorgeous bag!!
Catnip - that is such an astute point. My right hip is an inch higher than my left from carring heavy bookbags. It is so important not to lug the world around with us at the expense of our poor bodies. Good luck in the hunt and may your new bag be beautiful, light and never cause you pain!!
Laura - those bags are adorable and it sounds like they fit your needs perfectly. Great score and you know I applaud your duplication!! May you have many, many years of enjoyment!!
fuzzylogic - No, no!! I actually think you are in the majority!! I think it's fabulous if you enjoy change and enjoy swapping out your bags. It may be personality, I never swap out earring, jewelry or bags except for special events. But hey, I eat the same thing for breakfast too!! Enjoy all your beautiful bags!!
PMC - very handsome tote!! Looks great. PS you haircut is stunning!!
Crackers - beautiful bag. Looks so soft and splushy. There is nothing better than when everything you need fits!! Enjoy, beautiful choice!!
torontogirl - you know I am totally crushing on your coach crossbody wallet!! So elegant and functional!! It would be a little too small for me on a daily basis but I totally love it. I will get lots of pleasure thinking of you enjoying this!! Fantatastic choice!!
Rachylou - oh I hear you!! Three dogs and must be caffeinated!! That's the top priority!! If you can get away without and are happy then that's great!! Thank god for long handles and crossbody!! Not enough hands in the universe sometimes!!
Eliza - sorry your beautiful bag is getting worn. Does that store have a website? Is there anyway to find offerings from the same maker? It's so hard when your "color" is not available. Good luck on the search.!! It must be some beauty that that woman chased you in the parking lot!! A little scary but very sweet!!

I used to be pretty much a one-bag-at-a-time woman. I'd use one until I was tired of it, consign it, and then get another. In one case, I actually took off my bag in the consignment shop and swapped it for another one on their shelf. I think I just couldn't be bothered having one more fashion choice to make every day and, even if I had a couple more bags in my closet, tended to just forget about them.
Now that I am an empty-nester I am more likely to change bags based on my mood or outfit. I guess I have enough time now! I still don't have a lot of bags by some standards -- but there are three day bags that have been in heavy rotation this fall/winter, plus one new tote (Cole-Haan burnished pewter leather, bought during holiday sales).
- Black Botkier Howard Street Leather Satchel (bought from consignment store)
- Red Coach Court Crossbody (bought on impulse at Newark Airport, shown in brown below)
- Navy Tory Burch Robinson Tote (birthday gift, similar to the colorblock one below)
This year, I'd like to get a day clutch and Una's recent purchase is really tempting me. I had also been looking at Clare Vivier's. Not sure if I want streamlined classic or something tougher and more interesting.

Your bag looks great Gryffin. I could take a fancy to that myself At the moment I don't have a particular favourite bag. I own about 7 and this winter I have found that I've been reaching for the same two over and over again. One is a faux leather mid green tone and the other is a real leather (but not best quality leather) black and leopard print mix. Surprisingly they are both smallish in size and both are cross body bags.... I say surprisingly because I never used to be a big fan of that style bag as noted in this old thread of mine : http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....n-analysis Now I use them constantly and find them so useful. It's a sign that I am getting a better handle on my casual side. Maybe I need to look for a more upscale version of the black and leopard one as it is wearing a tad now.

I never, ever, leave home without a handbag.

I am mainly a neutrals girl in my clothing, but in bags I am drawn to color. At the moment, I have two summer-neutral bags (one bone, one white) but nothing black or brown.

I try to keep everything in my bag compartmentalized in its own container to make it easy to switch out, but I still live in panic that I'll leave something vital in the other bag (Metro Card! Spare car keys!), so I tend not to switch very often.

I cannot abide an overly blingy bag or obvious branding. I like double-handled satchels, no shoulder bags. I would love the practicality of a cross-body bag, but I don't like the way the straps tend to "divide and encase" the breasts.

Massive, soft leather, tote that can carry everything and has never let me down.

I used to carry small purses, but I changed positions and the change required me to carry a lot of things from the parking garage to the building. I was forced to switch from small purses to a tote. Now, no regrets, I love it and can't imagine ever going back.

Since joining YLF I have become a bit of a bag lady. I'm always looking for the "perfect" bag for this or that occasion but I have also started changing bags frequently depending on my outfit or what I'm doing. My favorites are huge totes of various kinds, because inevitably if I carry a small bag I end up doing some shopping and whatever I buy won't fit, and I prefer to carry only one bag at a time.

Pretty bags and interesting topic!

I pretty much carry one bag until it dies. It's been a long time since I tried to swap bags. This entire year I've stuck with one, in black. It's not "love" but I'm satisfied with my current Tignanello. Keeps me organized and I know where everything is by feel. It's hobo-ish, has a handy outer pockets on either end, an outer zippered pocket on the back, a magnetic pocket on the front. The interior has an open pocket and a zippered pocket. The rest is open, but I just keep my wallet, brush, pill box and make-up bag inside.

If I were to have a fancy evening out, I'd definitely swap, But, hey! That hasn't happened in many moons.

I haul a lot more stuff in my gym bag! Actually, I'm rather like Mary Poppins, now that I think of it. I might not have a lamp, but pretty much anything else a person could need is in one of my bags! Maybe that's why I can't be troubled to change!

Okay serious envy for Crackers' tote. That is so my kinda bag!

And no, my bag doesn't shift stuff around due to the relatively narrow compartments and my habit of divvying stuff into chunks of pouches. Only the identical-from-outside compartments get puzzling and the crescent shape means the zip catches unless I pull it taut with my other hand when doing up.

I went through a vintage Coach phase. Then I went through an interesting leather color shape phase, with great finds from Hayden Harnett, Aaneta, Junior Drake, Gererd Darel. Then like Runcarla I discovered the ease and simplicity of Longchamp Le Pilage while on vacation. That's all I carry now. I like the larger totes for most daily wear, and now have them in black, grey, and taupe. In two or three sizes, these make me happy for every occasion except really fancy. The black on black Plantes is my dressy bag. The hobo is my cross body, great for long days walking around. As I am a fan of simplicity, I realized these are what I really enjoy carrying and consigned every other bag I used to have.

I adore your bag! It sounds perfect for you.

I am definitely a bag lady and switch bags frequently. I used satchel styles pretty much exclusively for several years but in the last year I've developed a love for clutches and added quite a few. I even downsized my wallet and makeup bag to fit the smaller bags.

We had a post on bags a couple of months ago and showed pics of our collections. Since then I have added several so I am showing the newest ones here.

I thought I was turning into a bag lady a couple of years ago and even bought a purse organizer so I could easily switch bags. I'd always had at least 5 diaper bags that I switched out regularly and thought I'd keep doing it with regular purses! But just over a year ago I became enamored with a Cole Haan oxblood bag that I thought was perfect. Once winter came, I wished it was just a tiny bit bigger so that it could fit my hat and gloves. Along came the Michael Kors large bowling satchel, in bordeaux, on major, MAJOR sale.

LOVE.

It's all I've carried for the past year. I switched in the summer to something smaller, but couldn't wait to use it again in the fall.

I still use my purse organizer in it, though it does have many pockets. I've turned into a handle girl, though last year I exclusively used the cross-body strap. I always carry it at my wrist or elbow now.

The size is perfect and the color is perfect. I love the full zip closure that doesn't need two hands where one end needs to be tucked in (like many larger bags have, including Dooney & Bourke). I'm lamenting having to find something "lighter" for summer. The color is a bit heavy for that season, I think. I used a hodgepodge of bags last summer, but none were quite right. I've also turned into a large bag girl, even when I don't have gloves and a hat!

I'm more of a shoe gal than a bag gal. I have several different bags that I switch out weekly or so. During the work week, my purse lives in a drawer and no one sees it. When I'm going out (even grocery shopping) I make sure my bag is functional for my outing's purpose and goes with what I'm wearing.

I'm definitely a bag lady. As for favorites, it's often whichever one I've scored most recently! I'll use the next one consistently for a few months and then start rotating. The ones I keep going back to though over the last few years are a blue quilted Kate Spade satchel in the winter that also goes crossbody and a bright pink Michael Kors bucket-type satchel in the summer.

These are definitely for evening/weekend use though. For work, I use a brown men's Fossil messenger bag that fits my wallet, laptop, lunch, and everything else I need.

Viva - beautiful collection and each bag has such a different color and silhouette, so you can really swap up the look of any outfit. Great choices and yes, isn't more time a gift!! Sometimes I wish there were 30 hr in a day!!
Diane - I find that true also. When you really understand your needs and make that a priority, sometimes those purchases become favorites. I find this absolutely with bags. Also I bought a Ellen Tracey leather swing jacket - a little more retro in feel that I usually do for, but it's so perfect for me needs that now I can not believe I ever hestiated. Somes love comes from perfect function!!
Apil - I am so with you that I prefer a simple minimalist bag. Clean and elegant!! I did find when I used the Pouchee, it did give me a better option of swtiching things out (okay but I almost never did!!) but I would have been just as concerned to leave the most important thing behind. Kudos that you can do it!! I sympathize on the crossbody situation. Having a boyish figure can be an advantage with certain clothes and accessories but then there are many things I can't wear due to that too. Thank heavens for lots of choices!!
Gabrielle - I love to pack heavy too!! It's good to always be prepared! Nothing wrong with loving totes and you never have to stress about too little room and have less problems with overstuffing!! Enjoy your stylish space!!
Mander - kudos for swapping things up!! Totes are great!! Sounds like you ar really enjoying yours!!
tummy - I love that carpet bag in MP!! When I travel everyone knows I pretty much pack the world (so they don't have too) So I really embrace this!! Sorry you are not loving you black bag. But functional and like are good things until true love comes along. Hoping the bag of your dreams appears soon!!
Manidipa - sounds like you have bag organization down to a science!! That is some adorable bag. Glad to know it functions well too!!
Grey Rainbow - sounds like you have a great understanding of what you need and what makes you happy. That is just so fabulous!! I really have to check out the Longchamps bag, too many people loving it.. It sounds amazing!!
Susie - what a gorgeous collection of bags and so perfect for your style!! So glad changing them out is working for you. Sounds like you're really organized and I always love how the perfect bag really enhances an outfit!! Kudos!!
Pastrygirl - I had to sit down and put my head between my legs as not to pass out. You swapped out diaper bags? OMG, you are the queen of committment!! I was happy with a shower and you were changing out your bags. Well that clearly separates out the amateurs from the professionals!! Gorgeous, gorgeous bag now!! I can see how you'd never want to swap!! Lucky girl!! Enjoy!!
Karie - wow, it sounds like you have life and bags so organized!! The perfect purse for the activity!!! I am so impressed!! Amazing!!

Dee - your KS and MK bags sound awesome!! Blue quilted sounds amazing. Day bag sounds fabulous because it must function magnificently. Kudos to you too for raiding the boys - they do get some amazing stuff too!!

Any of you bought the Modalu handbags from Modalu, England? Favorited by The Royal Family. They have a Pippa line too. Very nice quality leather. I have several. Beautifully lined and nice hardware. http://www.modalu.com

LOL Greyscale! I have that same bag, but the (less popular, therefore not reissued) triangular shape. You can see it in the first two pictures here. First leather bag I ever purchased. I still love it. You have very good taste!

Ooops I didn't think I was a bag lady but I do have a few favourites

A Prada nylon tote I bought last year. It can be worn across the body or hand-held. It is a beautiful blue & I love it for travel. I have a MKs tote in snakeskin which adds some texture to a plain outfit. A Clare Vivier clutch which is fab for day or evening & last but not least my pale blue Valentino which is my perfect dressier bag

I hereby crown you Queen Gracious Gryffin. xo

(Yes. I thought you might like my new clutch with the black Tokyo suit. I will too, if I add a soft blouse and pretty shoes).

Greyscale - I thought long and hard about the Willis bag. It's very elegant. The only reason I did not select it was the leather is matte and I thought it would show scratches. It's a very classy, elegant bag!! Love, I hope you enjoy. Gorgeous!!
Pame - I had no idea what bag the royal family carried. So thank you, so interesting. The link has many fab bags. I hope someone will chime in, if they have experience with them, but they look awesome. Thanks again so much for sharing!!
K.Period - Is the flap triangular or the whole bag? It's hard to tell from the angle of your photo. Either way it's a very pretty, elegant bag and a great size. I hope you enjoy!! And remember my Annabelle was discontinued too!! Just because Coach does not share our love it does not make the bag any less fab!! it just means we are exclusive!!
Caro - you know I am going to have to go back through your posts to check out bags!! You have such amazing style!! Your bags sound amazing and, be still my heart, did I hear pale blue valentino? Wow, that must be amazing!! Wow!! I cannot wait to see you sporting them!!
Angie - you are so amazingly sweet!! Many, many thanks!! Can you believe how many wonderful bags people have?!! I am so amazed, and thankful for everyone for sharing!! What terrific fun!!! Yup, I will be awaiting a pic of you in your stunning suit with your new bag!! But it would not be a fantastic Angie outfit if you did not put your own gorgeous spin on it!!

Mine did just get some deep scratches on my flight home from Christmas. I bought it vintage but quite recent - you can tell by the model number stamped on the inside. It was in great used condition when I got it and then it stood up just fine to daily use for two years, though. I hope some leather polish will fix these new scratches. I'm bringing it to a cobbler this week.

Greyscale, I have a Willis too. Actually, I have a lot of vintage Coach bags. Leather polish isn't really good for them. Lexol is a good leather conditioner, as is Blackrock Leather N Rich.

Greyscale - sorry to hear about the dings. Cobblers can work wonders. They've salvaged a boat load of things for me. They will definitely be able to touch it up and tell you what to use to keep it in great shape. It's a gorgeous bag. I am waiting for them to bring it out in the Madison or pebbled leather!!
JAileen - That is such a great tip. I am going to check out those products. I never heard of them before. Thanks so much for chiming in!!

My daily handbags are work totes, otherwise I'd look like a bag lady every morning with two bags. I switch totes on a daily basis also, depending on my mood (and the weather!).

#1 bag is the Saddleback tote bag, it can hold a ton and is reliable and holds its shape no matter what.
#2 is the Le Pliage, waterproof, light and easy (and red - which makes it that much better).
#3 Whipping Post Tote -- my newest bag, it's so light! I can't stuff it full though because I'm pretty sure it's not as strong as #1
#4 Will Leather tote (mine is tomato red) - this bag is at least 5lbs empty! It's got loads of hardware, and its made with heavy canvas and zippers. BUT, It can carry a ton. It had to be about 12lbs this morning on my way in!

On the weekend, it's a whole different bag game because then I can carry a smaller load. Most times lately, it's 1, 3, 5 and 6. I need to carry more of 6 (the Purple MAC Daddy bag) and less of the other heavy bags!

I love the modern Coach Willis bag. It is the perfect size and can be carried by hand, over the shoulder or cross body. Lots of space but not too big. Perfect for carrying with small children. I have it in five colors.

For work I have two leather coach totes. A black for fall-winter and a beige for spring-summer. I carry the tote in addition to my Coach Willis bag.

Not much of a bag person. I just need my bag to be functional and look congruent with the rest of my look. I express my fashion persona in other ways

Griffin, I admire all your responses in this thread!

As far as my bag goes, the interior has one zip pocket and three slip pockets; the exterior has two pockets, one with a flap and the other without. Those, along with one or two pouches, are enough to keep it organized so I'm not needing to dig around for stuff!

Von - that is some beautiful collection and that is amazing that you swtich them out daily. I must say, I definitely love #1 the most. I cannot believe it's light because it looks like it's very strong. Enjoy all your gorgeous goodies!!
Suja - I really like that coach willis bag too!! I think Blair of atlantic pacific has one and it always looks stellar with everything she has on. If that make that in black pebbled leather, I will be a total goner!!
cciele - Thanks so much, that is very sweet of you to say!! It sounds like that adorable bag is amazingly functional!! Sometimes bags are cute but inefficient. So I am totally jealous. It's an amzingly unique shape but sounds like it has been perfectly thought out and that it is a pleasure to use. Enjoy your gorgeous bag because I will enjoy the thought of your sporting it!!

I am a minimalist and have two bags only, one for summer one for winter

summer - Louis Vuitton Damier Azure Neverfull
winter - Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene Neverfull

I like the Neverfull because it suits my casual life style,they are very light, simple and user friendly.