It's a well-known fact among women that you can never have too many shoes, but some would argue it is possible to have too many handbags. While it's great to have bags that coordinate with each outfit - so that's a bag for work, another for going out to dinner and yet another for popping down to the shops - chances are you'll spend half your life transferring all those little essentials from one bag to the other - and still run the risk of leaving your front door keys in your work bag when you get home from a night out.

The solution? Invest in one good quality, versatile handbag that works for any time, any place, anywhere ... And there's never been a better time to do this because the latest crop of must-have bags are returning to a more classic, elegant look - with plenty of glamour, a touch of elegance and, perhaps most importantly, room to keep all your bits and pieces.

Gerry Weber has a gorgeous range of classic handbags to choose from. Their bag-buying tips? Look for one that's made from luxurious leather in a simple style that will take you effortlessly from season to season. Rather than opt for passing-trend colours, go for neutral shades such as failsafe-but-fabulous black: that way, you know your bag will complement any outfit and won't suddenly fall out of fashion in a few months' time. Prices start from around £55; for details of stockists across the UK, call 020 7436 8411.

Alternatively, for another sumptuous collection of classic bags, try Saddler's new range, made from softest South American leather. Choose from an array of reworked traditional utility shapes and sizes - featuring timeless details such as decorative metal plates, dome studs and chunky shoulder chains. Prices start from £85; call 020 7323 7500 for stockists, or visit www.saddlerleather.co.uk.