5 BASIC HANDBAGS FOR FALL

Style / Trends
October 14, 2009

Beautifully basic bags

Seemingly endless amounts of handbags are on the market, so it's easy to get distracted on your path to purchase.

Here we help you focus on five bags every girl should have - and even give you examples of the splurge and frugal versions.

Basic bag #1: The everyday bag


Every girl needs an everyday bag -- a large carryall that can weather abuse and still look stylish whether you're at work or at a bar. For maximum versatility, look for a bag that is solid-colored (or has a very, very subdued print) in a neutral tone so that it will match with as much as possible.


 
Splurge: Chloe's Ethel patent lambskin leather tote is truly a drool-worthy bag. It may be simple, but this elegant bag's beauty will not be lost in a crowd. $1,395 from Net-a-porter.com.
Save
: The Camilla Handbag from Lulu's may be faux leather, but you'll have to look pretty closely to tell. This classy bag has plenty of room for all of your goods, and its stark white color makes it a must-have for summer and a stunning winter-white piece. $47 from Lulus.com.

Basic bag #2: The overnight bag
Don't rely on a dowdy duffel for a night or two away from home. Travel in style with a bag that is chic yet still roomy enough for toiletries and a change of clothes.


 
Splurge: This gigantic leather carryall by L.A.M.B. (the "Ceylon Pickwick") epitomizes both the glamour and rocker edge that is synonymous with the line's creator: Rock goddess Gwen Stefani. $599 at Zappos.com.
Save: This Norma Kamali for Walmart large canvas bag has a touch of sophisticated prep at a remarkably small price: $20 at Walmart.com.


Basic bag #3: The eco tote bag
Nothing is more stylish than going green, so keep a simple fabric tote folded up in your everyday bag that you can use in place of the traditional paper or plastic when you make a shopping trip.


 
Splurge: Marc by Marc Jacobs and a huggable penguin tells us to "Save the pole" in the form of this natural hemp canvas tote. $110 at Bluefly.com.
Save: It doesn't get cuter than this "Think of the critters before you litter" tote bag, which flashes a much-needed reminder in the most adorable way possible. It doesn't get more affordable either: $1.50 at Forever21.com.

Basic bag #4: The clutch bag

A clutch bag is the perfect way to tote all of your little must-haves in a minimalist way. Get the most bang for your buck by purchasing a clutch in a neutral color that's tame enough for day but still has a bit of edge to transition to night.
 


Splurge:
 The lizard embossing on this Lucy Cloudy Clutch by Laura Merkin makes it exciting enough for a night on the town, while its subdued print makes it daytime appropriate. $250 at NeimanMarcus.com.
Save: Pinch your pennies without pinching your style with this Angie & Lola Foldover Clutch in bone. Its sunburst design is sure to brighten your day. $29.99 from Target.com.

Basic bag #5: The statement bag

In every girl's bag arsenal should be one that goes beyond the classics and truly expresses her personality. Whether that's with pops of color, intricate designs and/or funky shapes... well, that's up to you.

 
Splurge: From preppy flat master Tory Burch comes this classy bag (the "Alize mini"). With leather trim, splashes of color and the iconic logo, this bag's a fun addition to any wardrobe. $395 from Net-a-porter.com.
Save: The Gibson Bag in Electric has a similar aura but hits at a much lower price point: $44.99 at Modcloth.com.

Originally published by SheKnows.com
 

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