Affordable Alternatives to Fall’s Top Handbag Trends

Whether used as a statement piece or for function, handbags are one of the principal accessories in a woman's closet (tied with a great pair of shoes, of course). Fall designs ran the purse gamut, from jeweled clutches to animal prints and color blocking. The possibilities are limitless when pocketbook-friendly alternatives abound.

Classic Leather Tote

Need a great business satchel or something with more versatility? Then you probably want a handbag along the lines of Yves Saint Laurent's Cabas Chyc Leather Tote or the Wanderlust Satchel by Westward for Kate Spade. Both bags made several fall fashion must-have lists. If the bags' high price tags are out of your reach, there are affordable options. The MICHAEL by Michael Kors Hamilton Chain Vertical Tote is just as classy and versatile, without as hefty of a price.

Special Occasion Clutch

Perhaps your social life doesn't necessarily warrant an expensive clutch, but your esthetic ideals do. A timeless clutch won't seem a frivolous expense when it can work for a plethora of special occasion. Alexander McQueen's Signature Skull Clutch in black is a perfect fall runway example. J. Furmani and Carlo Fellini both make affordable, stylish and unique alternatives. Two to look out for are the Carlo Fellini Anna Clutch and J. Furmani's Silk Satin Flap Clutch.

Into the Wild: Animal Prints and Skins

If the near-$4,000 price tag of the Valentinto One-of-a-Kind Python Satchel is a little more than you have in your piggy bank right now, fear not. Animal print and faux skin substitutes are plentiful. If leopard print and bright colors are not your bag, as they say, then the Guess Wanderlust Fold Over Bag in understated zebra print is more low profile. Betsey Johnson is the queen of untamed fashion, so it would make sense her Cheetah Bows Weekender would be a suitable walk on the accessorizing wild side. Remember to pack your fearless strut with this one.

Color Block Beauties

A color block handbag is an effortless basic with an interesting twist. The Marni Two-Tone Leather Shoulder Bag in red and black is sophisticated yet simple. The effortless elegance can be found in an inexpensive option, like the Kathy Van Zeeland Geranium Color Block Hobo Bag. It has interesting metalwork plus the requisite two-tone appeal.

Hip to Be Square

If geometric shapes and clean lines inspire your Type-A style, you were probably drooling over the neat little square package that is Chanel's Boy Bag. Kate Spade has recreated the look with her own square flare in the Bow Bridge Little Kennedy Shoulder Bag. The Brown double handle and flat, patent bow also add some understated pizzazz to its square minimalism.

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