The right purse should be dependable, supportive, loyal and fabulous (just like our men) so choosing this life-changing item should not be made hastily. A season-long relationship is created with a handbag- so the purchase of said bag cannot be taken lightly!

Large, Larger, Small, Smaller- a handbag offers endless choices in shape, style, color and size. One may be for the office, one for the beach, and one for date night- a girl can never have enough handbags! The importance of a handbag cannot be overlooked- thus a new introduction must be made- the best designers of the new fashion wave have been found! Put away your classics- Dooney, Coach and Kate need a rest- try out some less known designers that are sure to make a statement for any modest Fashionista!

They say a woman without her handbag
is as lost as a wandering lamb…

From the ancient beaded bags of African priests to the haute couture tote of the modern lady of leisure, handbags have historically been both the carriers of secrets and the signifier of power, status, and beauty. Today, handbags are as much a fashion statement as they are a practical necessity. Native Americans once used bags to carry their seeds as they meandered along the fields, ladies of the Renaissance donned purses to carry their dance cards and handkerchief, and today’s fashionable woman doesn’t leave home without her purse- now a fundamental aspect of her whole ensemble.

In fact, a purse often works overtime- carrying  everything from keys to makeup to baby wipes; while also making a fashion statement to the world. The handbag has evolved with the times- apparel comes in and out of fashion but the handbag has remained relevant throughout time.

Coveted Clutch.
In the world of 10 pound over sized designer purses- the clutch is often overlooked. Though small in stature the clutch is a little accessory that can make a huge statement. First utilized in the Victorian era, the clutch resurfaced as a chic evening bag during the 1950s. Today a clutch can take you from day to night- often adding a pop to a Celeb’s look on the red carpet. Often more decorative than useful- the clutch can carry lipstick and a wallet- just enough for a night out. Clutch it if you can- this petite bag certainly has a place in every chic woman’s wardrobe.

Already a household name due to her girly-punk jewelry, the CC Skye line also boasts bags of beauty! This Rich hippie clutch is a favorite- putting an extra punch into an all black outfit or toughening up a floral dress. This clutch is a bit roomier- and can grow with what it contains. A darling of the jewelry world, CC Skye was named Hottest LA designer, and WWD says she is “constantly ahead of the trends.” This line attempts to fuse uptown elegance with downtown edge- and does so perfectly! Bound to get compliment after compliment- carrying a bag from CC Skye will put you ahead of the curve and guarantee you a spot on the best accessorized list!

Delightfully playful and girly, Felix Rey is a brand perfectly suited for any modest gal. Bright colors and varying textures will add interest to any outfit. Born from 2 New Yorkers, these designers know what a girl is looking for. This bag is woven from straw yet lined with a soft cotton and has a magnetic closure- the straw may evoke a day at the beach but the bows and details say Ladylike Romanticism- what a combo! Felix Rey may mean “Happy King”  but you will be a Happy Queen with this purchase!

We can’t get enough of the Tylie Malibu line. From supple fabrics to beading to grommets to leathers, the line pays close attention to detail and represents the best of Malibu! The line suggests effortless beauty and undone glamour- a combination that any fashionable woman would love to have. It is flirty yet restrained, carefree and mysterious. The designer has a penchant for contradiction and the clutches will add an extra pop to any relaxed modest outfit. This style epitomizes another popular trend of layering - clearly this brand is in the know- and a must for any fashionable lady.

BAG IT: The clutch may have waned in popularity- but for 2010 it is a must have accessory. Perfect for the holidays, special occasions, or a night out on the town – the clutch is the perfect home for your essentials!

Happening Hobos.
Hobo bags have gained immense popularity during the last few years as Bohemian culture earned itself a solid home within the United States. The trend of Hobo bags gained momentum in the year 2005 and has been a favorite of fashionistas everywhere ever since. The trend has its roots in tribal India where bags were handmade in every household.

Today, Bohemian bags have traveled far and wide and are now one of the most favored handbag trends. A true Hobo bag invokes the feeling of effortless beauty and tells a unique story. Having a casual feel, the Hobo bag is usually over sized and perfect for day to day activities.

This JJ Winters bag looks like it is fit for a Queen- or any fashionable girl strolling SLC. A favorite among the celebs- JJ Winters is a label to familiarize yourself with. Perfect for a trip to the city- this roomy hobo is sophistication with a little edge. The suede paired with the on trend zippers will add depth to any outfit.  Partnered with a t-shirt and Jeans this JJ Winters bag will be the focal point of an outfit- or will play second fiddle to a dressy black suit.  Any way you style it a JJ Winters hobo will carry you through your day with poise and style.

The Tylie Malibu label does it again! An amazing over sized hobo bag that is covetable to all. Thrown on with any outfit- this bag will add interest and fashion credibility to any ensemble. Incredibly roomy, the rich mustard color is neutral enough to match any color story and the studded details add a little edge to this boho bag. Called the Nomad bag- as you can fit your life into it and go- Tylie Malibu creates a bag perfect for everyday. Totally practical and yet so fashion savvy- we love!

Well known for their beautiful belts made of fine Italian leather, Linea Pelle, has expanded their empire to include handbags- And Wonderful handbags to boot! This Dylan style comes in an array of colors and is an understated classic. Slouchy and comfortable a LP bag will find a perfect home on your shoulder. Totally dependable- this bag will match everything in your wardrobe- and can be worn from season to season. Casual and fashionable aren’t mutually exclusive- with a bag from Linea Pelle you can be totally on trend while maintaining your low-key lifestyle.

BAG IT: The greatest advantage of a Hobo bag is that they are large in size and can accommodate quite a few things. Play with color and texture to add extra value to a simple outfit or make a dressy ensemble more relatable with the help of this easy, breezy, low-key hobo bag.

Cross Your Heart.
The cross body bag has gained tremendous popularity recently as it leaves hands free to shop, carry the baby and an umbrella or just sway in the breeze. The cross body was conceptualized in the 50′s and used for by telephone linemen to carry their tools while keeping their hands free to climb polls and shimmy across phone lines. Today, the cross body bag doesn’t need to be worn 50 feet up- it is just as perfectly stylish on sea level. With the shoulder strap on one side and the actual bag resting on the hip of the other- the cross body bag not only adds interest to a simplistic outfit but is also amazingly useful and chic. The best part of a cross body bag is that while carrying everything you need- it also gives you freedom to have free hands wherever your fashionable day leads!

Foley & Corrina is the label that is behind that ubiquitous City Tote “IT” bag of 2009; and this cross body is just as fabulous as its Big Sister and adds an intricate edge to any look. This bag is the perfect marriage of supple leather and brass mesh creating a ladylike look with a bit of toughness. The designers of this brand are well versed in fabulous vintage inspired fashion, and this design is no exception. Understanding that a woman wants to be in style while adaptable to any situation- this cross body chain bag represents the height of downtown hipness!

This mini bag from Cleobella is total Gem! Inspired by her travels in Asia, the designer created this brand out of self-exploration and the urge to help others. She wanted the product to be responsible, functional at the present moment and promote longevity of the “greater good.” All intentions were definitely achieved, and a percent of the proceeds go to a foundation that fights global poverty. Cleobella allows you to be totally fashionable while helping the world. This is a true balance of fashion and philanthropy and this studded cross body bag is a must for any conscientious, fashionable consumer.

BAG IT: A cross body bag is perfect for a day of shopping- carrying all your necessities while keeping hands free to peruse racks and to carry all those shopping bags!!!

Satchel Style.
Once used by children to carry their books on the way to school- a satchel is a huge part of the fashion world and a must have for all fashionable ladies. Usually boasting a single or dual handle that is long enough to carry on the crook of the arm; a satchel is an incredibly chic fashion statement. These bags will add elegance to any outfit and help to give off a poised and controlled vibe. Perfect for work or strolling on a Sunday the satchel is a power accessory you cannot go without!

This Bag from Matt and Nat is the ultimate for any fashionable environmentalist. The Vegan brand whose bag linings are made from recycled water bottles, prioritize the environment while creating incredibly stylish bags. Compact in size this satchel is great for day to day activities and the zipper treatments give it an extra punch. A perfect partner in crime for any fashionable lady!

Your perfect accessory for the spring and summer months- a mint green satchel from Kooba is a great way to express your individual style. Adding color to any outfit; this dynamite bag can carry you from day to night- and is the perfect flirty date accessory! The designers of this exceptional line of bags value one’s innate style and want to make sure the individual-not the accessory makes a statement. Kooba’s mantra is Stand Apart- Love the difference- so go forth and rock it!

Sophistication born from that Cool California Aesthetic is how Treejse designs can be described. Created by a MBA with a passion for art and fashion and an artistic Buyer who felt stifled by other brands- Treesje has developed a true following. Beautifully textured with distinctive adornments and fabulous silhouettes- this is brand to keep your eye on. This satchel is just one example of the fabulous accessories that this line boasts. Unique in both color and construction; this little red satchel is a must.

BAG IT: Careful about how much you put in your satchel- a heavy satchel can leave the crook of your arm oh so sore!

Shoulder to Shoulder.
The shoulder bag is the most classic of all handbags- easy to throw over your shoulder and run out the door- yet stylish enough to add an extra pop to any basic outfit. To work to play- the shoulder bag manifests in so many ways. Sitting on your shoulder, with the body of the bag at your side- the shoulder bag is incredibly practical- and with the help of these designers the shoulder bag is totally fashionable.

Big Buddha is an adorable, new(ish) line developed by a surfing, soul-searching guy from California. His line is totally fun- with colors that pop- feminine adornments and prints galore. These bags will update any outfit and best of all; they don’t break the bank. Most prices hover around $100. The Flower shoulder bag is perfect for day to day and special enough for a date night. Having a girlish vibe; this flirty style is perfect for any fashionable gal.

Hayden-Harnett is a local favorite. Based in Brooklyn, this design team has roots in the South (& Italy) and is always providing us with the most fashionable bags. The team’s ideology is very community centered; which makes Hayden-Harnett so much more fun to support! This bag is highlighted because of its versatility. An amazing shape that will hang perfectly under your arm and then transform into a over sized shoulder bag- how could you ask for more?

The Ultimate in feminine strength Lauren Merkin never disappoints with her designs. The color and creamy feel of the leather juxtaposed with the gold grommets make for a beautiful conversation. The bag speaks of the dualities of self- and the designer playful side is definitely at work. Lauren Merkin’s bags have garnered a loyal following since the company’s inception in 2000 and the brand continues to gain momentum. Of course this bag is called the Bella bag- so deserving of its title!

BAG IT: Invest! The shoulder bag will be at your side day in and day out- this is the time to spend a little extra to find your true love.

Diaper Duty.
Babies crying, no sleep had, dirty diaper- times are tough, but that is no reason to surrender your fabulosity! All things can be stylish; including a diaper bag!  Your baby is the light of your life, thus he will be with you 24/7- so will the diaper bag. So we’ve done the searching for you- and come up with the best of the best baby accessory. Allow your stylish self to reign- dirty diapers or not!

Rosie Pope is the Queen of fashionable maternity wear. She has been providing hip, stylish clothes to pregnant ladies for years and now creates perfection in diaper bags for post baby! The Nantucket bag is classic and feminine. Truly sophisticated the mother of this bag can go anywhere and feel fabulous. The bag is made from fine coated white linen which allows for a wipe-clean surface.  Chic and practical – the goal of Rosie Pope’s design- this bag is the perfect accessory to your little angel.

Not Rational is a family brand born from 2 sisters with a passion for all things fashionable. The sisters wanted to create a line of bags that were comfortable, practical, simple and fashionable; mission accomplished. The designing duo even accomplished the unthinkable- to create a diaper bag that carries all your baby’s needs but looks Nothing like a typical diaper bag!  The rich colors of Not Rational bags suggest sophistication and classic style and are still totally functional and ready to organize your life. With or without baby- you will want to carry this fabulous bag day to night!

StorkSak is a brand coming from across the pond- established in 2003 the brand melds fashion with functionality for parents on all continents. Storksak provides various prints and fabrics to house all baby needs. All of interiors of these bags are “wipe clean” to keep things neat and smelling fresh. The bag above takes a whimsical approach to diaper changing- but the array of colors, fabrics and prints are endless. The perfect combination of style and functionality the Storksak bags are the ultimate for moms and dads alike!

BAG IT: Don’t stress- as long as your baby is safe and happy the bag is unimportant!  (But keep it stylish!)

There is an aura around a woman’s handbag that expresses her individuality and speaks volumes about her fundamental needs. Regardless of your budget, great bags can be found at any price point. Personal taste dictates what style of bag one chooses to carry- but individual style is always paramount.

Coming Up: FAB FOOTWEAR & TRUE ACTIVEWEAR