In my day I've ruined my fair share of classic leather handbags, usually by being too careless and tired to move over my wallet and keys from one bag to another when the sky threatens to open up. Water stains are not ideal, especially when the second most important function of a handbag is to pull your look together and make you appear more polished.
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Similar to how most of us rely on rain boots to get us from point A to B before trading them in for heels or suede boots at the office, a weather-proof, water-repellent purse or bag is an accessory necessity. And, unlike big clunky rain boots, some of your options are so chic you may actually get excited when you hear thunder rumbling in the distance.
If you'd love to add a pretty, practical bag that can handle the elements to your wardrobe, look no further than these six options.
1. L.L. Bean Nor'easter Tote
This water-repellent bag is made with 100 percent sturdy canvas, features a cross-body strap and comes in three complementary and sophisticated shades that make it perfect for work or play. It's also roomy on the inside, which means you'll be able to fit your favorite tech toys without them being destroyed if it starts to drizzle (L.L. Bean, $79).
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2. Dooney & Bourke Small Lexington Leather Shopper
It might seem impossible to keep your classy composure when a storm is raging and you're commuting by foot to work, but this water-resistant leather shopper by Dooney & Bourke has a modern and elegant shape and, thanks to pebbled leather, requires little more than a damp cloth to wipe away traces of rain or spills. It comes in five classic hues: amber, bone, hunter green, midnight and wine, which is shown here (Nordstrom, $198).
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3. Coach Corner Zip Wristlet
You have pebbled leather to, again, thank for this adorable purple wristlet's ability to withstand the elements. With just enough room for your phone, cash, cards and a lipstick, this will be your new favorite teeny-tiny purse to take with you to dinner (Coach, $65).
4. Dooney & Bourke North South Triple Zip Nylon Crossbody
A hands-free crossbody bag like this one is perfect when you need to carry an umbrella, and the bright marigold shade will brighten your day when the sun refuses to cooperate. With two front zip pockets, there's plenty of room to stash your necessities in this lovely bag (Macy's, $89).
5. Longchamp 'Large Le Pliage' Tote
Because your boss expects you to show up at the office — even in monsoon-like conditions — it always helps to have a water-resistant nylon tote bag at your disposal, one that can protect important documents, electronic devices, and those adorable pumps you'll never wear out in the rain. This one by Longchamp features an interior wall pocket, leather trim, and comes in 10 stylish colors like Red Garance, Gunmetal, Cornflower, and Anise so you can stock up on one for each (rainy) season (Nordstrom, $145).
6. Miztique Women's Floral Print Nylon Backpack Handbag
More of a backpack kind of girl? You're in luck: this beautifully exotic floral water-resistant backpack can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, in addition to any other necessity you tote around. Take it to work, the gym, or on your next flight out of town and you'll be able to rest easily not having to worry about the weather when you arrive. The best part: it's available at an extremely reasonable price at Target (Target, $39.99).