Hunting for a new handbag?Here's how to find the right one for you

I???m not here to pontificate on the importance of investing in a swanky status bag.If the price would bankrupt you, there???s not much in the way of status to be had.It???s worth making whatever you spend a considered purchase, however.That means assessing not just what you need, but what you want and how often.

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Michael Michael Kors mabel leather bag, ??260, Net-a-PorterandDarley classic grain bag, ??625, Mulberry

If you???re constantly seeking a high from the bargain counter, maybe it???s time to take up a hobby, and consolidate your expenditure into less frequent, but longer lasting purchases.???Cashmere??? leathers, expert production and sleek aesthetics mean that brands such as Mansur Gavriel, LK Bennett, Sophie Hulme, Clare V, Milli Millu, Radley and Me+Em are doing a fine job in the ??250-??450 range.That???s not to be sniffed at, but it seems fair.

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Kyoto bag in leather and calf-hair bag, ??295, Milli MilluandLewood leather tote, ??295,Kate Spade

Whatever you???ve paid, cherish your bag.Polish it often, because leather needs feeding.If you???re more of a high roller, then you owe yourself a bag that isn???t blingily ubiquitous.My favourite stealth-wealth label of the past few years is Valextra, whose Iside comes in 28 colours, is utterly devoid of branding, but is so exquisitely made that people will come up to you in restaurants to ask where it???s from.

6 best bags

Iside medium leather bag, ??1980, ValextraandReversible strap saddle bag, ??265, Me+Em (available from March)

What I like most about the Iside ??? about any bag, I???ve realised ??? is that it???s not overly organised inside.There???s just a side-zipped pocket for keys, lipstick etc. Those multi-compartment bags may seem a good idea, but having someone else???s idea of organisation imposed on you is stressful.Better to buy some pochettes and design your own system.

As for how many bags you need?A roomy tote, a day-to-evening chain-strap cross-body and a work-friendly top handle will cover the basics.But when was bag buying ever about basics?

The best ladylike handbags