Where would you buy an 18 year old young woman a purse?

He should ask her what brands she like, it's important to know if she only likes name brands. If not, what colors she likes. I once had a boyfriend buy me a Coach handbag in black. He thought I would like it because it's Coach, but I never use black handbags. I politely said thanks, but he soon realized that all my other bags weren't black. I have a friend who only wears crossover bags which I hate. 

yup.  the only time DH has ever purchased a purse for me in the 27 years we have been together,  he had to send me pics of it from all angles before i gave the thumbs up. AND this was only last year. AND this was only because i already owned two of that purse but in different colors.    other than that, he knows better than go to into that minefield.  

I think it's OK to give a purse as long as you also give a gift receipt and are very clear that you don't mind if they exchange the gift. I would look at a store like Macy's if you want something higher end or Kohl's if you want trendy but more budget friendly.

People can be very picky about purses. I only do leather, and a long cross over strap. My girls who are in their 20s, like cloth, and big bags. Vera Bradley is considered an old lady style around here. I know it's big in other areas, but my girls would be horrified to get one. Has the GF told your son she wants you to buy one specifically? I would get a GC.

I think an inexpensive purse is a great gift for an 18 year old. My 20 year old considers all name brands to be for old ladies like her mom so has no interest in Coach, Michael Kors, etc.

She prefers backpack style or crossbody purses and most are cloth or leather/cloth with fun patterns.

Where does this girl like to shop? DD has asked for purses from Tillys, H&M, Zumiez, Pacsun and local beach stores.

Definitely include a gift receipt.

I wouldn't overthink it. TJ Maxx is handbag heaven. Pick something cute out, include a gift receipt, and take a chance. DD18 likes small crossbody bags, and large structured bags.

I was going to suggest the same thing as Caspad.
Find out what type of purse, name brand (or not) she likes and buy a gift card and a gift card holder that looks like a purse.

I, for instance, buy my purse at Ross, and prefer it be under $25(I won't spend more then $30 on a purse). I don't care about brand. I only use black purses, and it has to be a satchel/duffle bag style with a silver(hate the gold and brass zippers) extended zipper(no short zippers, I like my purse to open wide), with one inside liner zippered pocket (for money and cards), and one zippered pocket on the outside(for keys).
I use multiple mini & smaller cosmetic style bags >> make up bag, lipstick bag, miscellaneous bag(tums, mints, nail file, travel pack tissues,etc..), phone bag(charger, ear buds, etc...),  etc...and put them all in my purse.

I really want a new purse for Christmas and I'm not that picky (don't care for name brand either). I've dropped a hint to my family that TJ Maxx had some good ones. If they pick something that doesn't suit me, that's fine. It will give me the excuse I need to exchange and get one I do like. For some reason I can never justify buying myself a new purse when I need one.

Maybe your son's girlfriend would be the same way. Find one you think suits her and put the gift receipt in the purse.

ok. i thought it was just me.  i am 50 and i don't get the whole VB thing either.  it does look old lady with all that quilting.  trendy with who?  the old ladies? lol

I suggest giving her a gift card to TJMaxx, Marshall's, or a department store; she can then purchase the purse (or wallet, jewelry, sweater, whatever) that she likes & reflects her style/color preference/etc.

This!!! All this! I would love to buy DS' girlfriend barbies! Or at least buy her some dresses and makeup and stuff. She isn't into that plus she is an adult.

Wristlet?
DS17 girl friends carry them during leisure time. 45 pound backpacks of school and practice gear during the day, and practically nothing but a phone and cash in tiny wristlets at night.