Looking for the perfect accessory that will stay with you from day to night? Jewelry and shoes are great, but nothing is as practical as the perfect purse.

Marc Jacobs tote

            For working women there has never been a better time to buy a tote. A briefcase is no longer necessary for the work place. Instead, designers have come up with several fashionable options for the woman who carries a lot on her shoulders.  A tote is considered larger than a purse and is worn on the shoulders, thus freeing up the hands. Marc Jacobs is known for making totes out of leather, canvas and in the summer, straw. These bags are fashionable both in and out of the office, on the work day or the weekend.

L.A.M.B. Devon Tote

A larger and more trendy option is Gwen Stefani’s L.A.M.B. Devon Tote. These totes come in silver, cheetah or saddle and are 17”W x 13”H x 8”D, meaning it can hold a bottle of water, a magazine and a sweater. Instead of a sweater, a pair of jeans or a different top can be substituted so that women can change an article of clothing for the transition from day to night. The Devon Totes also offer interior and exterior pockets complete with cell phone compartment, so that function meets fashion in one of the most sought-after bags of the season.

Coach offers the option of the large tote as well. Coach’s Signature Multi-Function Tote comes in denim and tan and is made of fabric and lined with leather. Coach even boasts that this bag can be used from anything from a diaper bag to a work bag to an overnight bag. For anyone who is a traditionalist, Coach also makes leather briefcases and messenger bags.

Juicy Couture "Wishes" wristlet

Another recommendation for transitioning from day to night in a hurry is to store a clutch or evening bag into a larger work bag. Whether you are using a locker at the gym or work or are only dashing home to drop a few things off, having a smaller accessory to carry the basics in is a simple and fast way to unload. During the day just make sure to keep what you will need for the evening in the smaller accessory, that way all you have to do after work is change it out.

A wristlet can hold credit cards or cash, a lipstick and a small cell phone. While they don’t hold much, they can oftentimes have a clasp that allows them to be hooked inside another purse or larger bag so that they are easy to keep with you. A wristlet is also an excellent alternative for women who don’t like holding a clutch in their hands or whose shoulders are too tired for a smaller tote in the evening. Coach, Dior and Marc Jobs make wristlets that range in variety of styles and colors. For function and playfulness, Juicy Couture offers their “Wishes” wristlet which contains slots inside for ID and credit cards.

A designer tote will last for years despite the wear to and from the office. Larger totes are also great for overnight bags or weekend outings. While these bags can be worn at night they are oftentimes too large for dancing or drinks and are better off being replaced by a small purse if not a clutch or wristlet. Whichever size or type of bag you prefer, an investment in one large tote and a smaller accessory that will fit inside make for easy options when in a hurry.        

-