Such a big city, where to begin? Well, one bag wasn’t enough, so we created one to honor the melting pot history of Ellis Island, another to highlight the economic hub of Wall Street.

This one looks like a melting pot, all right, melting hearts instead of cultures. The low-slung, black vinyl body is adorned with a short, tight fire-red ruffle that races along the zipper. The traffic-stopping red zippers are linked together with two jangling chains that chant as you walk. The finishing touch? Custom metal swing handles designed by jeweler Amy Kahn add a certain je ne sais quoi.

Target Price: $147.97  
Deposit: $25.00

This one is all business, but with attitude to spare. A sturdy body holds laptop, file folders, your bulletproof career plan. With a detachable shoulder strap, in case you prefer handles. Nickel hardware adds a little ka-ching and nickel studs line the fold-over flap that snaps the whole business shut. Cognac croc and charcoal vinyl send the message: Wannabe’s need not apply.

Target Price: $167.97   
Deposit: $25.00