I like little snubbies.
One can fit in the coat pocket in winter (where it are immediately and discreetly accessible -- nobody thinks it odd that someone walks with her hands in her pockets in cold weather, and the fastest draw is to already have it in your hand).
You can find cargo-pocket shorts that allow you to totally conceal one in summer.
You can also use an inside-the waistband holster that totally conceals it when you just drape a t-shirt or vest over it.
As others have noted, the best gun is the one you're likely to routinely have with you. Just train yourself into the habit of continuing to fire until the bad guy goes down.
Yes, this is true. But, I never, ever go where I can be mugged.
Again, it depends on the woman. I wear long skirts with no belt, no coat most of the time here in Florida. No pockets and really how many women do you see with cargo shorts?
Better on you than in a purse, yes, but I’ll risk having one in my purse than go unarmed.