Before you buy (yet another) handbag, have you got the eight essentials covered? BAZAAR has the power list.

#1. A classic quilted Chanel bag, in black leather

#2. A micro bag with macro personality

#3. A zip top purse

#4. A no-nonsense black carry-all

#5. A tricked-up woven basket

#6. A neutral cross-body bag

#7. A go-with-everything tan satchel

#8. Something (anything!) in a classic monogram

Read more on HarpersBAZAAR.com