Dooney & Bourke Penrose Hobo 25 vs Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 26

The Penrose Hobo 25 is the better pick if you want a small, light shoulder bag in full-grain Italian leather with a secure zip top. The Tabby 26 is the better pick if you want a structured crossbody that converts to a shoulder bag and carries a phone, cards and small essentials. On build, the Dooney is plain leather with a zip and a key hook; the Coach adds a turn-lock front pocket, a detachable long strap and a fabric lining. Owners of both lines praise the leather, but the Tabby's polished pebble finish hides scratches better than the Dooney's smooth full-grain.

• Choose the Penrose Hobo if you want a compact zip-top shoulder bag in Italian full-grain leather that weighs just over a pound.
• Choose the Tabby 26 if you want one bag that works as a shoulder bag and a crossbody, with a turn-lock front pocket for quick access.