Alexander Wang's hobo bag

When I saw this Alexander Wang Donna hobo at the Barney Co-op store, I gravitated towards it like a moth to a flame. It's made of pure, soft black leather, feels wonderful, and looks even better. The four zipper pockets --more compartments are always a huge bonus for me--have already won me over, and the overall size of the bag is just right. Plus, right now I'm so into bags that I can just sling across my shoulder and not have to worry about adjusting. It's so much more convenient, especially when (like me) you're always rushing around and in a hurry, and totally gives off that effortless, low-maintenance look we all strive to achieve. But who am I kidding? This Alexander Wang hobo is priced at $795, so it'll be a long, long time before I can afford this badass bag!

Handbags of the future

Fashion Week San Diego is approaching, and among the featured designers is luxury handbag company Lust4Luxe. I'm an ardent fan of their pictured Cherokee tote, with its delicately handwoven panels (reminiscent of Bottega Veneta purses), braided straps, and roomy side pockets. Using beautiful Italian leathers, suedes, and patent lambskins, Lust4Luxe offers sophisticated design combined with convenience. For example, every L4L handbag comes with a patented internal lighting system! A blue night light switches on when the bag is opened and illuminates the area so you can easily locate your keys or cell phone. And if you're like me--a million things in your purse, scattered all over the place--you need that function! Talk about fashion forward!

A Chanel-inspired purse

Last weekend in New York, I spent some time shopping in all the cool Soho boutiques and found a true gem: Sissy. The store specializes in gorgeous leather handbags of all kinds, including clutches, slouchy hobos, cute totes and messenger bags. I was definitely tempted by this Chanel-style purse by glamRock. The long golden chain and quilted texture are reminiscent of Chanel's signature handbags, but at $69, you won't have to pay high-end designer prices. I also realized how convenient these kinds of purses are; when walking around crowded New York City, you really need a purse you can just sling across your shoulder, not a big handbag you have to worry about lugging around from subway to sidewalk.

The shiny patent leather finish and purple satin lining add a touch of glam, taking the purse from daytime sightseeing to nighttime partying.

Fallon's delinquent case

At first I wondered about the appeal of Fallon's delinquent case. After all, the little purse was made specifically with a cigarette holder inside to stash your smokes. Although I am not a smoker, I wouldn't mind having this brushed brass case with its cool pendants and attached chain. I'd bring it along instead of a purse or clutch for a night at the club and use the compartment inside to hold my important cards (driver's license, credit cards), cash, a few sticks of gum, and--depending on how much space there is--my cell phone. The case makes a cool and edgy accessory slung across your shoulder, just like a statement piece of jewelry; plus, you won't have to worry about holding onto your purse while you're dancing the night away at the latest nightclub.