Handbag Hot List: Purse Power by Sharon Mosley on Creators.com

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Handbag Hot List: Purse Power

A new season, a new handbag? Why not! Many of us aren't the kind to spend thousands on the latest designer tote, but we love to browse the accessory aisles to check out the new arrivals at the beginning of each fashion season. Whether we enjoy having several bags for all different kinds of occasions, or we'd rather stick to one simple everyday style, there are plenty of options out there to give your wardrobe an instant boost of new purse power.

Here are a few ways to stash your stuff this spring.

Start with a tote. The structured boxy bags that look like they have "wings" are a big trend this year. With all of the things we carry around with us, this bag functions as a heavy duty workhorse. Before you buy a bag like this that you'll probably take to work, think about everything that will go into it — tablets, phones, makeup, etc. I also like lots of pockets and dividers to organize reading glasses, sunglasses and keys.

Check out the weight of a bag before you buy it. Leather is a good choice, but canvas may be a lighter look for spring and summer. Your shoulders and back will thank you. There's nothing worse than lugging around a heavy bag all day.

Another great work bag this year is the two-strap satchel or duffel bag. Many of them have sort of that ladylike '50s vibe updated with studs, jeweled embellishments and mod stripes. Cross-body saddlebags are another option. These are one of my favorite work/weekend bags because they keep your hands free — perfect for doing all that shopping, right?

If you're a jeans and T-shirt kind of girl, then the backpack may be perfect for your work commute, but they can also make a great travel companion.

Make sure you try this one out for size before you leave the store with it — the straps on backpacks often vary from style to style.

And if you're off for a warm weather getaway, then a straw tote may be your best bet this year. These fun bags scream beach party — and come in so many different styles — from glamorous leather-trimmed carryalls to colorful striped farmers market totes.

A great "work" tote will work with most of your outfits. Neutral colored handbags in black, tan or this year's newest "white" will be your best bets (I personally like metallic gunmetal as a neutral), but don't be afraid to go bold with a high-voltage color or a graphic print. Florals are a hot go-to pattern in purses this spring. What better way to dress up that little black suit you always wear to the office?

And if you're doing a little island hopping and just want to put your essentials in something when you go out for the evening, there are plenty of stylish ways to go casual with fun clutches and wallets. The fun frame clutch is a retro-inspired trend that pops up this spring in quirky polka dots, sophisticated snakeprints and glamorous metallics.

Don't forget to check out all the mix and match accessories available to go with your everyday tote. You can find all kinds of sleek wallets, billfolds, card holders and phone cases to fit inside your tote that do double duty at night.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.