Look for Less: Spring Purses

By Pamela Pekerman

Who wouldn't love to own every one of this spring's hottest handbags? You can - and it won't require taking out a small loan. StyleList rounded up the hottest spring handbags (like this $1,195 Anya Hindmarch hobo Angelina rocks), then found two similar styles for a sliver of the price.
Image credit: bauergriffinonline.com

The Trend: Metallics

The British have finally arrived! UK designer Anya Hindmarch is the leader of their fashionable pact. We love everything about this divine shoulder bag -- the grey and silver combo, the semi-structured shape and the utilization of luxurious leathers. Anya Hindmarch CooperHobo, $1,195, www.anyahindmarch.com.

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Metallics: The Trend for Less

Add a bit of shine to your look with this silver hobo by Nicole Lee. It's available in a slew of colors, but the silver version also incorporates the season's other major trend: ombre (color transitioning from light to dark). Nicole Lee Degrading Patent Satchel, $72.59, www.nicoleleeonline.com.

Metallics: The Trend for Less

This oversized tote has the same crescent-shaped base as our splurge bag and comes in the season's standout metallic hue. Xhilaration Tote Bag, $19.99, www.Target.com.


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The Trend: Rainbow Colors

Greet spring with the season's hottest trend -- bold color. For those who can't decide on one hue, this lust-worthy shoulder Prada bag combines several of them. Wearit with jeans or let it pop against your white sun dress! Prada Nappa Stripes Multicolor Small Hobo, $1,675, www.Saks.com.


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Rainbow Colors: The Trend for Less

These cute Nicole Lee shoulder bags pack just as much colorful punch as Prada's four-figure version. And you'll have saved so much cash, you can pick up a basic black bag for everyday toting. Nicole Lee Multicolor Stripe Small Shoulder Bag, $59.59, www.nicoleleeonline.com.

Rainbow Colors: The Trend for Less

Do you prefer your color in limited quantities? We recommend testing the waters with this tote and foldover clutch-in-one from Melie Bianco. It's perfect for a funnight out with friends. Melie Bianco Multicolor Striped Tote, $65, www.shopintuition.com.

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The Trend: Quilted

Quilted bags scream classic -- think Chanel's timeless styles. Marc Jacobs' fanciful, Alice-in-Wonderland-themed collection for Spring 2008 adds some downtown splash with playful, quirky accents. Our favorite detail? The chic knotted belt. Marc Jacobs Quilted Shoulder Tote, $1,295, www.NeimanMarcus.com.


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Quilted: The Trend for Less

Made with premium synthetic leather, this quilted bucket tote has all the elements of a great work bag, plus it comes in a subdued metallic sheen that's right on-trend with spring's hot metallic looks. Melie Bianco Pewter Quilted Shoulder Bag, $86, www.shopintuition.com.

Quilted: The Trend for Less

This handbag has the same quilted body as the hot Marc Jacobs bag, and it even has belt accents on the side. And the flat base and east-west shape will allow you to squeeze in a lot more items. Chinese Laundry Large Quilted Tote, $84, www.chineselaundrybags.com.

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