I looked at this thread earlier today and immediately thought Galliera PM. At that point, everyone had said the Palermo, so I thought maybe I was just not on target. My first thought was the Galliera is such a great looking bag, it will make her feel really very stylish and like you said "chic"!! A mom does not always want to appear as if she is carrying "mom" bags. She deserves to look great (not that the Palermo is not nice, as well). The Galliera holds alot, is lightweight, and looks very stylish!
Good luck to you on your decision. You are a great husband for thinking of her in such a special way!