Much like your most reliable handbag, a purse needs to be stylish yet functional. A card holder might be enough for most – they’re compact and easy to access, without the extra step of a magnetic closure or zip – but you may want a larger purse if you want more security, or you like to carry some coinage.
To find options for every storage preference and style, I assessed a range of designs – squeezing them into pockets, chucking them into tote bags and slotting them into handbags. The purses in this review have been used at self-service checkouts, restaurants, and even taken to a festival. Plus, they’ve all been assessed on the qualities that matter – ease of use and style. The best designs are on-trend but timeless, from polka dot print to chocolate brown.
Some of my favourites include Radley’s wallet, if you’re after a large purse, and Been’s Clapton bifold card holder as a smaller option, with its buttery-soft recycled leather. Meanwhile, Lululemon’s wristlet wallet is unmatched for practicality – it even has room for my AirPods.
The best women’s purses for 2025 are:
- Best purse overall – Radley pockets large bifold wallet: £79, Radley.co.uk
- Best budget option – Nobody’s Child black croc finish card holder: £29, Nobodyschild.com
- Best card holder overall – Been Clapton bifold: £60, Been.london
- Best premium option – Strathberry mosaic trifold wallet: £195, Strathberry.com
How I tested
To create this guide to the best purses, I selected designs from reputable and IndyBest-loved brands, and used them over the course of two months. The most important things I assessed were quality, capacity and security but, I also considered portability, accessibility and appearance. You can read my testing criteria in detail at the end of this guide.
