I’ve never been a “practical” shopper. Collared shirts? I left those behind after my short-lived stint as a legal assistant. A watch? Who needs one when you have an iPhone?
And when it comes to purses, the more unique, the better — my collection includes a discoball- shaped purse from Judith Leiber.
So, not surprisingly, a classic, everyday handbag never made the cut: too boring.
I finally realized the repercussions of this way of life when I recently tore apart my closet, searching for a purse that would take me through a long and rainy day. Sifting through a pile of glittery minaudières, I realized my epic wardrobe fail. Momwas right: One good bag is all you need.
With summer on the horizon, I began my quest to invest in the perfect shoulder bag. Requirements? Lightweight, stylish and well-crafted. Here are my top five finds.
(above) The Post’s Anahita Moussavian carries it off with her No. 1 pick: the Proenza Schouler PS11.
Elizabeth Lippman
2 of 7
CHIC BUT TOO SLEEK!
It’s slim, compact, and it can hold the bare necessities. The chain-link strap is quite pretty, and the multimetallic tones make it a smart and stylish day-to-night option. I just wish it was a wee bit wider. “Alabama” sequin satchel, $455 at angeljackson.com
3 of 7
CHEERY BUT CHERRY
I was attracted to this satchel because of its bright red hue. Its three zippered compartments are great for super-organized types, and the top handle adds a fashionable “briefcase”-inspired vibe. But as much as I adore it, the eye-catching color might limit my wardrobe choice.
Opening Ceremony “OC NY” bag, $750 at shopbop.com
4 of 7
CLASSIC BUT SLIM
Everyone needs a classic black purse, and this envelope-shaped one has so many sophisticated elements: the metal detail, the soft leather, the hidden pocket behind the clasp. The removable cross-body strap keeps it versatile (it can be a clutch, too). But it’s too narrow for daily use, and I like a slightly more structured bottom.
Sophie Hulme mini textured-leather bag, $415 at net-a-porter.com
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TOO BOLD FOR EVERYDAY STYLE
With the mixed media (leather and twill), and an unexpected mix of patterns (leopard print and tiger stripes), it’s wild! And roomy, too. This purse is an edgy way to brighten up your style. My only hang-up? It might be too loud for my everyday look. Kenzo patchwork leather and twill shoulder bag, $800 at net-a-porter.com
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WINNER
I’ve been a fan of Proenza Schouler handbags for a long time, so when I spotted the PS11, I loved everything about it: the structured silhouette; the adjustable, removable strap (makes for a cross-body, a shoulder bag or a clutch); and the silver school-buckle trimmings. Plus, its beautiful peacock-blue hue is classic yet fun for summer. It has slim compartments aplenty, but the main interior is key: It can hold my umbrella and a pair of flats. All of this without compromising an ounce of cool factor. PS11 mini-classic bag, $1,675 at Proenza Schouler, 822 Madison Ave.
7 of 7
WINNER
I’ve been a fan of Proenza Schouler handbags for a long time, so when I spotted the PS11, I loved everything about it: the structured silhouette; the adjustable, removable strap (makes for a cross-body, a shoulder bag or a clutch); and the silver school-buckle trimmings. Plus, its beautiful peacock-blue hue is classic yet fun for summer. It has slim compartments aplenty, but the main interior is key: It can hold my umbrella and a pair of flats. All of this without compromising an ounce of cool factor. PS11 mini-classic bag, $1,675 at Proenza Schouler, 822 Madison Ave.
