Bagging a bargain

Shoes may be one of a girl's best friends when it comes to fashion accessories, but for many, finding a real deal on a handbag may be one of the best feelings you can ever expect to have - especially if you're like some of us and love to collect one or two or three - or more!

A new handbag by your side is also the quickest way out of a style rut.
Change your dark leather hobo to a shiny patent leather tote and you change your life - instantly.

You don't have to spend a fortune to bag a new lease on fashion life, either. Just scope out a few of your favorite stores or online Web sites for the looks you love. With a little persistence, you'll be able to find a handbag you like for a price you can afford.

Although some trendsetters may need to have the latest "it" bag, most of us would rather spend our money on other things - like shoes. And besides, if you're like me, if I spent thousands of dollars on a purse, I'd feel like I had to be buried with it. I'd rather live a little.

Here are lots of ways to spend your money on handbags this spring and summer:

- Big bags are still stealing the fashion scene. But beware: some bags can be heavy and awkward to carry. Test them out in the store, before you buy these "suitcases." And if you do buy one, make sure you have a smaller "pouch" purse to carry when your shoulders get tired.

- The white handbag is making big news this year. It's a great buy since it will practically go with anything you wear. But another reminder: make sure the purse you buy is durable and can be cleaned, especially the straps which tend to get the most wear and tear.

- Bold colored handbags are also fun to add to an accessory wardrobe, especially if your wardrobe consists of a lot of black and white. A bright yellow satchel will do more than boost your fashion spirits.

- Shine is also a major fashion buzzword this season. Whether it's bronze, silver, gold or copper, the metallics are the new neutrals in accessories. Like white, these shimmering hues will complement anything in your wardrobe. Patent is another way to shine for spring and summer in playful bright colors, black or white.

- If you really want to get wild, go for an animal print - another neutralizer in the fashion arena this season. From zebra stripes to python patterns to chic cheetahs, these handbags are roaring to give you lots of style status.

- And if you really want a bargain that does double duty, check out the beach bags available this year. A great bargain I found this spring was at Target - a huge straw bag with black patent straps - perfect for traveling - even if it's not to the beach.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.

Tag: fashion in fashion