I found one of the most useful handbags ever last year at Clare Vivier, so I was delighted to find her store around the corner from where we are staying in Santa Monica.

It is a veritable handbag paradise, with the most helpful staff I have come across in Los Angeles.

The brand is rooted in Los Angeles, where the bags are made.

The bags are so soft and well made; best of all they do not cost the price of a small car.  Again, the brand was quick to pick up on peoples desire to have their bags monogrammed and there are loads of well priced options.

The fold over clutch is incredibly useful and comes in so many colours  and sizes . There really is a shape for everyone- the brand gets that women want beautiful bags that are practical and at a reasonable price.

I love the stripe detail on the tote above- what a great overnight bag!

This year I invested in this divine black oversized woven clutch. It is so roomy and easy to carry. This is a bag I can use day to evening, with soft leather and an exquisite finish.

If I ran my own boutique this is a brand I would consider stocking as the quality and price point are so attractive.

Clare Vivier  ship internationally and you can email them to organize the monogramming. A small range is stocked at Net a Porter.