Bowed Over

The backpack.

Sure, it's big enough to hold your stash of stuff and still leave you hands free to double-clutch your Starbucks venti mocha cappuccino and biscotti, but it just screams "third period with Mrs. O'Dwyer for English Literature."

The only thing missing: a Trapper Keeper with Johnny Boy's name and hearts scribbled all over the front.

So unless you're hiking through Europe for your last romp with adolescence, ditch the sad sack for the flaunt-it now Valentino Bow Tote, the TDF combination of preppy-sweet meets portability.

Available in red and black, the sassy side bow adds a Alexis Morrell Carrington Colby Dexter Rowan vibe to dress up your "the corner office will be mine" power suit. And after climbing the corporate ladder all week, throw it over your shoulder with a pair of jeans for a touch of lady-like whimsy.

At $895 from Neiman Marcus, you might have to clock a lot of over-time to afford the princely sum. Or skip the whole Ramen noodle debt diet and sling this Brick Lane tote by Marc B. on for size (Topshop.com, $120).

Honestly, going to work from 9 to 5 is hard enough; dress up the doldrums of everyday with a brilliant bag!