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  • The Elevates Everything Bag Photo: Jens Mortensen
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    The Elevates Everything Bag

    Its unusual shape and gorgeous color make anything you pair it with suddenly chic. Derek Lam, Guinivere; $1,925; Helen Yi, Chicago, 773-252-3838
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    The Polished Bag

    Its proper look is a perfect complement to work clothes -- and a perfect contrast to weekend wear. Fashion editor Katie Hatch says it's like a cross between a briefcase and a purse -- so structured and well-made. Mulberry Fitzrovia; $1,595; Mulberry, 888-685-6856
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    The Jet-Setter Bag

    Modern styling launches this retro flight tote into the style stratosphere. This is one of Katie's favorites. She says she'd use the zip pocket for stuff I access a lot, like my building pass. Calvin Klein Flight Bag; $218; macys.com
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    The Super-Organized Bag

    No more frantic searches for keys or a ringing cell. This baby has six outside pockets and three more inside. Bulga multipocket shoulder bag; $855; bulgausa.com
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    The Slouchy Bag

    Creamy leather, brass hardware, and a dramatic zipper pull add up to a relaxed but very rich look. The soft, worn feel of a baseball mitt inspired the first Coach bag so it should age just as beautifully. Coach Thompson Hobo; $698; 866-262-2440
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    The Standout Bag

    Like the perfect red lipstick, this bright number will add drama to anything you've got on. When investing in a bag, you'll be happy if you go in one of two directions, simple, or completely designed and considered, like this creation. Zac Posen Abbey in Ruby; $1,500; eluxury.com
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    The Ladylike Bag

    A handmade, gold-plated brass frame gives this feminine purse its delicate shape. Kotur Wallace; $920; Bloomingdale's, NYC, 212-705-2000
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    The Tony Tote

    Finally, a bag that lets you schlep lots of stuff and still look sleek. We love it when people have the confidence to pull off white accessories all through winter. MS by Martine Sitbon MS9; $475; Atrium, Miami, 305-695-0757
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    The Stealth Work Bag

    This oversize wonder makes lugging around all those work files look like a style statement. You really can put the kitchen sink in it -- or a weekend's worth of clothes. It's mammoth. Marc by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Delancey in Nice Tan; $698; Marc by Marc Jacobs stores, 212-924-0026
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    The Split-Level Bag

    This bag has that great hide texture and we love the two distinct compartments. Plus, the handles are long enough to go over the shoulder but not too long to carry as a handbag. Nozieres, Alda Flight Bag; $615; 212-279-8843
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    The Naturalist Duffel

    Fashion editor loved this bag so much, she bought it, The only thing she dislikes is how she styled it for the photograph. She claims she stuffed it too much and missed an opportunity to show how great it looks slouchy and half full. Johnnny Farah Handmade Antwerp; $483; If-Soho, 212-334-4964
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    The Sarah Bag

    Our editor, Sarah Humphreys, loved this bag. We think because it embodies her personal style: classic and ladylike with an updated look. It's also nice and small so you aren't weighed down on your way to work or brunch. Anya Hindmarch Alessandra; $925; Anya Hindmarch, 212-343-8147
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    The New Saddle Bag

    The flaps in the front remind us of the sides of an real horse saddle. Its minimal hardware and soft lines strike a nice balance. Botkier Cairo Satchel; $680; nordstrom.com
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    The Dream Doctor Bag

    The heavy, polished calf leather and the beautiful pleats make this bag a classic. Calvin Klein Lexington Frame Satchel; $1,050; Calvin Klein Collection Store, 212-292-9000
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    Hobo Number Two Bag

    There was a debate on this bag -- due to the fact we had also photographed a single-handle Coach hobo. But Katie loved this one, too. It's a lighter weight leather, so it makes for a lighter bag and the bottom is constructed differently -- making it stand upright when you set it down. Nicole Farhi DBA5F; $325; 212-223-8811
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    The Bottega Bag

    The look and feel of this bag makes you feel like a million bucks. Even while running errands in a grubby tee and jeans. We also have it on good authority that the leather ages beautifully and the light color does not attract dirt. Bottega Veneta Sloane Bag; $2,250; bottegaveneta.com
  • The Elevates Everything Bag
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