It's all in the bag: Experiment to find right purse as accessory

Whether you're a one bag kind of woman or keep three in your car at all times (as I do), there is no doubt that a handbag is a necessity. So, if you switch out a bag annually, seasonally or on a daily basis, this article is bound to give you a new outlook on your purse.

Handbags are accessories, so exercise your freedom to experiment with them. If you struggle to incorporate color in your wardrobe, adding an accessory can help you overcome that adjustment. Spring is just around the corner and the hottest trend in sight is bright, vibrant color. Is it time to take a fresh look at your handbag?

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Adding in color

If your wardrobe is dominated by colors such as charcoal, black, chocolate and navy, this Big Buddha tote is the perfect accessory for you. Also available in raspberry, you'll be amazed by how well a bag like this will accessorize with the items you already own.

A colorful item can be intimidating, especially if it's a new concept for you. So add items into your wardrobe gradually instead of buying a lot of new, colorful pieces all at once.

Suggestion: Big Buddha aqua scallop tote, $95. Available at Teal in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre.

Making an investment

For some, a $300 handbag is a walk in the park, but for many of us, spending $300 is more of an investment. And like any investment, you should choose something in which you see value. So ask yourself the following questions:

If you are able to positively answer all of these questions, then perhaps the investment is well worth the cost. Like a great pair of designer jeans, if you wear them enough and they are your favorite, then the jeans have paid for themselves. A fabulous handbag serves much the same purpose. If you will use it and love it, it will be worth it.

Suggestion: Cole Haan shoulder bag, $298. Available at The Resort Shop on Kiawah Island.

A tote by any other name

Every woman is busy in this day and age, and with productivity comes stuff. Since we have to tote it, we may as well do it in style.

Have fun with totes by selecting colors and prints that you enjoy. This is your chance to really have fun with your style. Look for totes that are durable as you will find they will serve many purposes.

Suggestion: Rebecca Ray canvas tote, $225. Available at Finicky Filly on King Street.

Finding the balance

Beyond the importance of knowing your shape for clothing purposes, it's equally as imperative to understand it when selecting a handbag.

Larger women should find bags that are larger in size, in the same respect smaller women should avoid carrying oversized handbags. You don't want your bag to make you appear larger than you are; nor do you want it to swallow you.

Finding a bag of relative size does not eliminate a particular style. Clutches, for example, are not necessarily small bags that are only to be carried by small women. It's actually quite the contrary. Truth be known, every woman needs a clutch in her closet. It dresses up any look and it's the perfect piece to transition from day-to-night. Toss it in your day bag on your way to work if you're planning an evening out.

Suggestion: MMS Design Studio pewter clutch, $42. Available at Haute Hanger on King Street.

Keeping things neutral

If you're looking for a "pick up and go" bag, then look for something neutral in color and in pattern. Neutral colors are traditionally mixes of tan, gray, beige and brown and were designed to work with most color palettes. Streamline your wardrobe with items that work with what you already own.

At the same time, don't confuse neutral with boring. A bag neutral in color and pattern that has texture is visually interesting. So, whether it's patent leather or a python print, it's still a staple accessory.

Suggestion: Pietro Alessandro studded python clutch, $225. Available at Phyllis on King Street.

Finding a steal

Sometimes you find a deal that's so great, you can't walk away from it. Here is a deal so fantastic, it feels like you're stealing it. An off-white bag for spring and summer truly is a must-have in your wardrobe. Get this one while you can!

Suggestion: Ivory handbag, $43. Available at Bashful Boutique in West Ashley.