The Ten Best Handbags

2. Jigsaw - £245
With four compartments, this ultra-practical bag will put an end to scrabbling for your belongings. The waffled finish adds an expensive looking, unusual twist.
www.whistles.co.uk;
020-8392 5600

3. Prada - £820
If you find this season’s strong colours hard to wear next to your face, then Prada’s rich raspberry bag with ruching is an easy way to add a shot of colour.
www.prada.com;
020-7647 5000

4. Chanel - £1,590
The metallic navy finish is the latest take on the quilted classic 2.55 that is a favourite of fashion editors. Streamlining your stuff into a small bag is eminently chic.
www.chanel.co.uk;
020-7439 5040 

5. Anya Hindmarch - £650
Anya Hindmarch’s bags are much sought-after because they add instant polish, not to mention elegance and understated glamour.
www.anyahindmarch.com;
020-730 0961

6. Kew - £89
Farewell heavy designer bags that bring on back problems, here’s one that’s as light as a feather. The simple, slouchy style and good quality leather make it appear expensive.
www.kew-online.com

7. Mulberry - £895
The pleated detail and chunky-without-being-bling zips update the versatile Poppy bag. Smart enough for work, slouchy enough for the weekend, and navy works all year.
www.mulberry.com;
020-7491 3900

8. Gucci - £540
The oversized clutch is one of the hippest styles this season, if not the most practical. This spring-like, daffodil yellow style called Hysteria will work for day and evening.
www.gucci.com;
020-7629 2716

9. Topshop - £50
A camera-style bag with a touch of androgeny. It has a rather dashing, vintage, foreign correspondent feel to it, and is unlikely to be spotted on B-list celebrities.
www.topshop.com;
0845 121 4519

10. Debenhams - £65
Lovely, soft leather and a practical strap make this a stylish bag from the Betty Jackson.Black line. It’s a good value, simple way to add a colour accent for the new season.
www.debenhams.co.uk