India, Aug. 13 -- I have a very specific requirement for my handbags: they need to fit my life without looking like they're carrying my entire life.

My work bag usually has a laptop, charger, wallet, sunglasses, makeup pouch, water bottle, random receipts and at least three things I don't remember putting in there. So yes, I need space. But I've never understood why a spacious handbag has to look oversized, stiff or unnecessarily heavy.

Lately, I've been paying much more attention to how a large bag is designed rather than simply how much it can hold. A structured silhouette can make a roomy tote look polished, while softer hobos and shoulder bags can create the same amount of space without feeling boxy.

And if you're shopping for a ne...