Ok…don’t hate me… it’s more like twelve but ten is so much catchier, right? Truth be told I added a whole other category at the last minute. Moving on…

When it comes to accessories, it doesn’t matter who you are shopping for, women love their bags. Here’s why: you can gain 10 pounds, loose 15, get pregnant, go through a growth spurt, change your part, color, cut, twist your ankle and not be able to wear heels for a season…it does not matter your bags will never let you down. They are democratic, diplomatic and they will always hold your unmentionables and not complain. Below you will find for your consideration and perusing pleasure some hi/lo alternatives covering a variety of tastes, styles and prices. And like the title suggests, I guarantee some of these finds you’re going to snag for your own.

Backpacks

URGE: It’s almost back to school (don’t hate me, that’s what my CVS circular is saying), so it seemed appropriate to start with some backpack themed bags that will keep your giftee looking fashion-forward and ready to tote some texts. This roomy moto-style backpack ($68, Urban Outfitters) is perfectly worn and has plenty of pockets.
SPLURGE: I think I’ve found the backpack I’m getting my daughter this fall. This LeSportsac ($108, Karmaloop) is just the right amount of retro/tye-dye/boho fabulous to not be too baby-ish. Maybe it’s a bit more than I would normally spend, but it will be worth it.

Small and Sweet

URGE: I love the look of a bright pocketbook–especially one that can work as a cross body bag and this one from American Eagle ($24.50) is pretty and has just enough structure to be versatile for almost any age.
SPLURGE: For a more luxurious gift JCrew’s shoulder bag ($168) defines effortless chic and comes in a variety of colors.

Studded

URGE: I’m a fan of studs and this crossbody bag ($43) with gold hardware is a nice economical choice.
SPLURGE: I bought this Botkier crossbody Moto purse ($295 on sale $132, Bergdorf Goodman) four years ago in black and gave one to a friend in yellow and we are wearing it 80% of the time we see each other. Nuf’ said.

The Clutch

URGE: Only recently have I gotten into clutches because I didn’t think of them as versatile… Was I ever wrong. This chic style works just as well with jeans as it does with a cocktail dress. I found this very affordable envelope clutch ($38) on Shop Suey Boutique, a fabulous site for your accessory shopping arsenal.
SPLURGE: If budget isn’t much of a concern, this Foley and Corinna one ($375, endless.com) — currently my very favorite handbag designer, I have four) is perfect in every way…the color, detail, texture, I can’t say enough.

Roomy Shoulder Bags

URGE: This shoulder bag ($58, Shop Suey Boutique) is roomy, has nice big pockets, buckles and double handles…for a sweet deal.
SPLURGE: Looking to give an investment piece? I keep coming back to JCrew, but this time it’s their chic hobo, ($325) and it’s similar looking, but not quite as expensive as, say, Marc Jacobs.

BONUS CATEGORY: Duffles

URGE: When you’re looking for a duffle, that follows a current trend, it’s sometimes hard to justify a pricey purchase. That’s why this Alloy Jaxson Stud Duffle Bag ($39.90) is so brilliant. The picture shown is red, but it also comes in black so you can afford to buy both colors or augment an existing purchase with another color.
SPLURGE: Speaking of an “existing” purchase… If you do have it in your budget to go whole-hog, might I suggest the Alexander Wang Rocco Duffle ($875, shopbop.com)? It comes with a detachable strap and fierce gold hardware on the bottom making such a gorgeous surprise.

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Studded and Spiked Themed Gifts for All Ages
6 Really Cool Stationary Ideas
10 Gifts Every Woman Wants From Her Mate
Skull Themed Gifts: Beyond the Rocker-T
First Time Gifts: Buying For A New Boyfriend or Girlfriend