clutch

Satchels, hobos, shoulder bags … they are all fine for everyday wear. But if you are headed for a special evening out, you have to carry a clutch.

Clutches come in all shapes and sizes. From teeny-tiny bags that barely hold a lipstick to oversized foldover clutches that are big enough to carry all your necessities.
If you are looking for the perfect evening clutch, look for something in between. A dazzling bag that is seven to nine inches wide is ideal. Shop for stunning bags that are adorned with beads, sequins, crystals and other embellishments.
If you want to really splurge, consider these designer favorites.

Nancy Gonzalez Hexagonal Python Clutch – The unique shape makes this bag extraordinary. This clutch is create from black reticulated python and features a luxurious suede lining. You can find this clutch at Neiman Marcus and other retailers for $1,400.

lattice clutch

Judith Leiber Crystal Minaudiere – If you have ever watched an awards show or movie premiere, you’ve caught a glimpse of a Judith Leiber bag. Celebrities and fashionistas alike adore these gorgeous crystal-encrusted bags. They come in fun shapes (like cupcakes and elephants), as well as more traditional silhouettes like the rectangular Judith Leiber Lattice Crystal Minaudiere. This classic bag features faceted Austrian crystals and beaded trim. This clutch is priced at $1,995 at Bergdorf Goodman.
If these designer clutches are a bit much, don’t worry. You can find affordable little bags that are beautiful too.

At Nordstrom, you can find this Jessica McClintock Sequin Bow Clutch for just $58.00. Available in gold or black, this bow-shaped bag features all-over sequins and a drop-in chain strap.

sequin clutch

You can also find beautiful clutches at a fraction of retail prices by shopping at thrift shops, estate sales, or online sample sale sites such as Gilt Groupe, ideeli or HauteLook.

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eco friendly handbag

In today’s economy, it’s important to shop smart. Let’s look at these easy ways to save money when shopping for handbags.

Invest in the Classics, Save on the Fads

If you have some extra cash to spend, don’t waste it on a trendy bag that you won’t carry often. Only invest in high-quality, classic bags that you’ll be able to wear year after year. A classic flap bag or leather satchel is worth the extra money because it will be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

Take Advantage of Sample Sale Sites

In recent years, sample sale websites have popped up by the dozen. Gilt Groupe, ideeli, Haute Look and other sites allow you to purchase designer handbags (and other goods) at a fraction of retail prices – sometimes up to 80% off. The sales only last for a few hours or a few days. So if you see something you like, don’t hesitate too long or you’ll miss the deal.
Head to Thrift Shops

Thrift stores, estate sales and consignment shops are terrific places to get deals on handbags and other apparel. Gently used merchandise from decades gone by is often better constructed than some of the new bags on department store shelves. Back in the day, I found a real ostrich skin bag at an estate sale for just a few bucks. If I wanted to purchase this exotic handbag new, the price tag would be upward of $1,000.

Shop Out of Season

Look for summery straw bags in October and rich suede purses in April or May. You can get tremendous discounts at end of season sales when retailers are looking to clear out inventory. Sign up for email alerts from your favorite online retailers to get information on upcoming sales.

Search for Bags at Etsy

For unique, handmade bags, turn to Etsy.com. Etsy features handbags created by independent designers. The prices are very reasonable and the designs are unique. Right now you can get this gorgeous, eco-friendly bag from the Ikabags shop on Etsy. This large shoulder bag from the Parisian designer is constructed from 100% organic linen. It features pretty pleated details and plenty of organizational pockets. At just $59.00, you can’t beat this deal.

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Summer is just getting started but it’s never too early to look ahead to next season when it comes to fashion. If you are looking to add a hot new handbag to your collection for fall, check out some of these fabulous options.

Patent leather will continue to be popular when the weather cools down in the fall. Look for patent bags in deep colors such as burgundy, purple, forest green and chocolate brown.

Gancio Lucchetto Patent Satchel

Gancio Lucchetto Patent Satchel

This bag pictured here is one of my fall favorites. The Salvatore Ferragamo Gancio Lucchetto patent satchel is a beautiful buy in rich chocolate. The gathered body gives this satchael an interesting shape. This bag is definitely a high-end purchase at $1,790 from Saks Fifth Avenue.

Versace Ostrich Stamped Patent Leather Bag

Versace Ostrich Stamp Bag

This gorgeous purple patent bag features an ostrich stamped texture that is sure to garner some attention. The shiny handle and other hardware add even more glamor to this fabulous Versace bag. You can pre-order this handbag from Nordstrom right now for $2,900.

Melie Bianco Pleated Patent Bag

Melie Bianco Pleated Patent Bag

Pleated and ruched bags and shoes will be very popular for fall. This pleated patent bag from Melie Bianco features a very unique shape and a distinct cut out handle that will turn heads. In addition to grey (pictured), this bag also comes in red and white. This patent handbag is quite a bargain. Order it now from Baghaus for $64.

For other discount satchel bags you can check here.

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When you’re on the run, it’s not easy to coordinate your every accessory, but with a few closet basics, every woman knows that she has classic pieces that will serve her in any situation. Of course, one of our most important and ever-present fashion pieces has long been the handbag, and picking out a few classic styles is sure to have you prepared for everything:

• Totes: Totes are usually big bags with straps or handles and an open top, perfect for a run to the grocery store or a day out on the beach. Pick comfortable, casual style in a color or pattern you’d like to use with your favorite jeans.
• Clutches: A clutch is a small handbag, large enough for just the essentials, that comes in many shapes. They’re small and unobtrusive, perfect for a night out dancing, so pick a style that will go with your favorite party clothes.
• Convertible Handbags: The convertible purse doesn’t actually convert, but is versatile enough throw over your shoulder, hold by the straps, or cradle in the crook of your elbow. They’re the perfect style for a businesswoman, so purchase a classic version in black.
• Hobos: The hobo is all the rage among celebrities and fashionistas, with their crescent shape and funky style. These are perfect for showing off your individual style, so purchase whatever hobo purse pulls at your heart strings

There are many style of purses and handbags out there, and every woman should have a few styles in her arsenal. Look around, shop on the web, and find the best handbags that fit your life and your personal preferences.

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Styles of Handbags

Shoulder Bag
Shoulder bags come in many different shapes and sizes. They are fairly large and can normally hold your wallet, keys, cell phone, books, notepad, cosmetics and more. They are sometimes compartmentalized with different pockets both inside and out. These handbags are designed to be worn over the shoulder. Shoulder bags are very practical and perhaps the most common bag carried by women.

Here are a couple fabulous shoulder bags – both the extravagant and the affordable.

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Designer chic. Are you a statement sort of gal, one who likes to let people know that you can afford the very best and, by God, you

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The Longchamp Le Pliage bag is crafted of a sturdy nylon with rich leather straps and comes in a variety of colors. In fact, it

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Extravagant

Zagliani Metallic Python Clutch – $2,195. This luxury clutch is only available online at Saks.com. The snakeskin has been injected with silicone for a buttery-soft feel.

Midrange

Tory Burch Croc-Embossed Clutch – $350. This clutch comes in silver or black croc-embossed leather and features silver-tone hardware. The ultra suede lining is very plush.

Affordable

Steve Madden Plated Frame Clutch – $98. Little metal plates make up this shiny clutch from Steve Madden. It’s available in both gold and silver, and features a drop-in chain strap.

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