Photo: Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
Handbags you carry over your arm are a super-chic and sassy way to carry around your gotta-haves. What's better? Rather than a clumsy clutch or a heavy shoulder bag, these handbags are sharp, classic and have just the right amount of room. Simply slip one of these babies on your arm and you are ready to go.
Simple and Ladylike
Some satchel styles have simple adornments that give the bag a more classic style. The clean lines and basic hardware and details make these bags ideal for those sophisticated fashionistas who don't like a lot of extra embellishments but still want to look their best. If you fall into this category, you'll find lots of ladylike options from supple and colorful leathers to more casual canvas fabrics. Simple zip closures and un-fussy d-ring hardware are key to pulling off this look.
Oversized
Dying to get that celebrity it-girl look? The key to this uber-chic style is maxing out your accessories. That means big sunnies, big carry-out coffee and an even bigger handbag hanging off your arm. Look for handbags in luxurious materials from soft, treated leathers to more outrageous options like ostrich or crocodile. Extra hardware, like an over-size buckle or chain handles, are the kinds of details that add even more glam to your look.
Top-Handle
Don't enjoy digging around in dusty vintage stores that smell of mothballs? Leave that to that hardcore fashion crowd. The rest of us can enjoy the fruits of their labor as more and more vintage styles are hitting the stores and are becoming more widely available. Vintage-inspired top-handle purses are one of the styles making a big comeback. The smaller scale won't break your back, and the feminine styling will keep you looking chic today, tomorrow and the next day.
Structured and Boxy
Think most handbags are suffering from bad posture? Toss those slouchers and stand tall with a structured frame bag. High-gloss materials like polished nickel or brass hardware and patent leather give this look a tough-girl appeal that is counterbalanced with softer curves, flaps and embellishments. Maybe the best part? These boxy styles are the Volvos of handbags: boxy and sturdy, they'll protect your precious cargo from any potential bumps.
