Even the most bag-crazy among us have to admit it: there’s a limit to just how many we need. Unless you’re lucky enough to rule over major closet square footage, space is an issue, and stripping down to what you really need will feel refreshing (while helping to avoid an overly stuffed closet). We’ve spent time considering a full year, including work, social, and travel obligations, and have settled on the only six styles you’ll ever need.
For more style essentials, check out our guides on the tops and dresses every woman should own, plus the items you need in your 20s and what a 30-something’s closet needs to have.
Source: Getty/Timur Emek
The most basic building block of your bag collection should be a simple style smart enough for work but chic enough to make your most fashionable friend grin with approval. Before investing in one, like this Elizabeth and James medium black satchel ($525), consider your daily load, and make sure you pick a style that can accommodate it. If you hardly ever need to bring your laptop to and from work, then don’t stress about finding one that’ll fit it. Too large is an invitation to overstuffing.