While economic downturn translates to tight shopping budget, it doesn’t have to translate to a complete self-denial or full shopping ban. You can still update your wardrobe with a key essential, such as a new handbag, by shopping savvy.
Here are a few handbag options for every budget combined with tips on how to maximize your dollar.

If you are going to purchase just one bag, make sure it counts. Look for a multi-functional bag that has handles and a shopper strap and can be worn in more than one way.
Avoid bags that are too over-sized or hardware heavy, since these may clash with light summer fabrics and softer style. Buy a bag that is versatile and works well with many styles. Lots of pocket is a plus to accommodate and help organize modern life essentials: phone, blackberry, ipod, and lipstick.

If you prefer a fashion statement piece, go for bright and vibrant color: yellow is going strong this summer. White and off white hues are always popular for the summer and look great against tanned skin. If you prefer a more classy and lasting hue – beige and ivory – are all great contenders.

Quality ”look and feel” are much more important than the price tag. The key is to look for a bag that looks luxurious and well made regardless of the cost.
Here are the 18 best handbags for a warm season divided into these categories: Yellows, Whites, Beiges, Multi-color, and always-in-style Black. I listed the bags in each category starting from the least expensive options to middle-of-the-road, to most luxurious cream-de-la-cream pieces.

Many of the bags listed are on sale, so hurry as they sell out quickly. (If unavailable, search for the same
designer for other available options).
Yellows:
1. Angie and Lola Satchel with Pleats - $44.99 (search by entering bag’s name) 2. Elliot Lucca Bari Shopper - $149.99
3. Gustto Chola Leather Bag - $299.99 on sale (original $645)

Whites: 1. Urban Expressions Braided Buckle Bag - $40, 2. Maxx New York Babbo Hobo - $99.99 on sale (original $225)
3. Hype Gaby Leather Satchel - $149.99 3. Gustto Ochialli Leather Tote -$289.99

Beiges:
1. Sabina Drawstring Purse - $86.40 2. Sondra Roberts Nice Tote - $139.99
(after $50 promotion, applied at the checkout) -$189.99 3. Gustto Cala Leather Bag - $349.99 on sale (original $770)

Multi-color:
1. Jessica Simpson Alibi Handbag - $82.60 2. Gustto Sora Metallic Leather Bag - $399 on sale (original $825)
3. Gustto Sora Leather Bag in Coral - $399 on sale (original $825) 4. Balenciaga Green Giant Middle Tote - $1,499.99
on sale (original $1995)

Blacks:
1. Charles David Parker Shopper -$95.98 2. Charles David Pond Hobo – $119.98
3. Botkier Gladiator Nero Tote - $299.97 on sale (original $695) 4. Miu Miu Hobo - $1,179.99
on sale (original $1,595)
| I call each price category ”Savy Fashionista”, “Aspiring Socialite”, and “Trust Fund Baby”. Which one are you? What bag do you covet this season? Post in the comment section. |






{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m definitely coveting that Balenciaga you posted, *swoon*! Of course, wayyy out of my price range. Luckily, the beige Sabina is really cute too, and only $86! Great finds
Thanks, Ashley! The Balenciaga is yammie. But you are right, the price tag is definitley in the “Trust Fund Baby” range. “Sabina” is by far my favorite bag in the affordable price category.
Haha oh how I wish I was a trust fund baby! LoL
Ashley K’s last blog post..Currently Craving: From the Sheets to the Streets
Wow, I really want a new bag for the summer season too. Maybe I’ll go out of the box and try a yellow one. It seems like they’ll really make an outfit pop.
Yello bags are gorgeous and draw attention. Great color choice for the summer!
Great bags. I also like the Balenciaga most.
Brandy´s last blog ..BURBERRY LIMITED EDITION TRENCH