With so many expenses this season, special-occasion handbags at less than $100 are worth investigating. Here are some tips for picking a purse that will score points (not scorn) at various celebrations, plus 16 handbag options that won't drain your wallet.
Holiday Handbags 2010
If your employer has decided to have a casual lunchtime gathering to ring in the holiday season, it's ideal to have a wallet that doubles as a clutch to hold essentials: BlackBerry, lipstick, credit cards and some cash.
Charlotte Russe - Ball Lock Foldover Clutch, $9.50, Charlotte Russe
Another option, for midday office parties is a wristlet. Pull Radley London's Marigold out of your bag and head off to a Chrismukkah lunch with your co-workers, without having to lug your entire handbag.
Radley London - Marigold Wristlet, $98, Radley London
The company had a great year and you're celebrating big-time with a private lounge at the W Hotel. This calls for a handbag switch into something a bit more glam than your work tote, but not overly glitzy – not that a woman really needs an excuse to change her purse-onality.
Big Buddha - Vegas Clutch, $90, EDressMe
Not quite the W Hotel, but you're still going out after work for drinks. This is a day to carry a medium-sized shoulder bag to work like this tassel-happy option from Galian, which easily transitions form the boardroom to the bar.
Galian - Tassel Shoulder Bag, $65, Galian
A little bit '80s, a whole lot of fun. You'll be free to dance the night away with this tambourine-shaped cross-body by your side.
Charlotte Russe - Round Quilted Clutch, $18.50, Charlotte Russe
Nothing says holiday fashion quite like sequins – yes, the Santa or dreidel charms will not cut it if you are over the age of 9! For under $20, Charlotte Russe gives happy bagistas sassy style at a sensational price.
Charlotte Russe - Sequin Clutch with Chain Strap, $19.50, Charlotte Russe
Dare to dazzle and channel your inner supermodel with a purse from Iman's Global Chic collection for HSN. Go hands-free when you are sipping Given Liquor and twirling your hair as you flirt with the bartender. Tuck in the handle when you crave a true clutch look.
IMAN Global Chic - Sensational Style Sparkling Logo Bag, $59.95, HSN
It's not right for a corporate affair; it might not work with Mom; it's ill places at a holiday gala. But, fur – real or faux – is the perfect choice if you're ringing in the New Year at a lounge or club with your friends. Adrienne Landau faux-fur cross-body has a '70s feel, so you'll also be jumping on Spring 2011 trends early!
Adrienne Landau - Faux Fur Coyote Handbag, $89.90, HSN
A clutch might not feel right for your casual family gathering, so I recommend a dash of festive crystal on a top handle that can also be worn crossbody.
Libby Edelman - Crossbody Bag with Jewels, $59,HSN
The only time it's OK to have such a large bag when attending any holiday party, is when that party is taking place at your parent's house and you are probably staying over or have lots of goodies to bring. Transition fall's military bag into a celebratory style by tying a beaded or red scarf to one handle.
Olivia and Joy - Dare Devil Satchel, $88, Olivia and Joy
Now that you've got the bag, check out these cocktail dresses for any holiday party.
