Girls with tiny handbags don't like being saddled down. They don't want a bulky handbag keeping them from having a good time. They may also find it difficult to find anything in a big bag and work off the notion that anything she needs can fit into a small clutch or purse. Outside of that, she can turn to her friends with the big bags! But don’t let these generalizations keep you from buying the kind of handbag you like.

When it comes down to it, your handbag should fit your lifestyle.  And that doesn't mean it has to be a big and bulky utilitarian duffel bag or a $3,000 handbag. For example, a Coach or Dooney & Bourke purse is sturdy and practical, and not flashy. These are great "starter" handbags or handbags for younger women or moms on the go. The reasonal price points make them very popular.

Stepping it up a notch are Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors. The prices range from the mid-price range ($400) to expensive (over $1,000), so there are a lot of choices depending on your budget and needs. These bags are also sturdy, roomy and practical.

If you're all about luxury and live in areas where status counts or you simply demand the very best, brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada, LAMB by Gwen Stefani, and Hermes feature exotic and look-at-me designs.

Fendi, in particular, is making exciting design innovations. I think for a long time Fendi was boring, but their recent styles are really exciting, appropriate for the next generation of fashionistas. My only major disappointment is that most of their hottest styles aren't available online, so you'll have to find a boutique. eLuxury.com (owned by LVMH) carries a few styles.

If you would like to use these quotes, please attribute them to Peter Belisi, president and founder of Belisi Fashions, a luxury accessories brand featuring Italian silk ties, pocket square, scarves and handbags (the handbag collection will launch in fall 2008).

What makes a handbag classic

A classic handbag is not about trends. This bag will remain in your closet for years, if not decades. Its timelessness is characterized by quality craftsmanship, practicality and style.

A classic handbag is made of the finest leather, is expertly stitched and is secured with quality hardware. If properly cared for, a classic handbag can remain a treasured piece for years.

Different types of leather handbags

When it comes to handbags, it pays to know your leathers.

Patent leather: Patent leather has been given a high gloss, shiny finish. The original process was developed in 1818 using a linseed oil–based lacquer coating. Modern patent leather usually has a plastic coating.

Crackled leather: Crackled leather is a technique that gives leather handbags a  more texturized, vintage look. The effects can be dramatic or subtle.

Calfskin: Because the leather comes from a calf, the leather is softer, more supple and smooth, almost buttery. Calfskin is used to make fine handbags.

Lambskin: This is more rare type of leather used but the result is an extremely soft leather, similar to calfskin.

Fake designer handbags

Okay, so $1,500 for a handbag is a lot of money to most people, myself included, but buying a knockoff bag is a territory I dare not venture. Even if you get a counterfeit bag that seems indistinguishable from the real deal, you’re supporting crime and let’s face it—those in-the-know, will know.

On the other hand, I see nothing wrong with buying a less expensive bag that’s reminiscent of the style of a couture brand. A quality leather bag is a quality leather bag no matter who makes it—as long as you’re not stamping LV monograms on it (unless of course you’re Marc Jacobs).

In our next--and last--handbag post I'll talk about the hottest handbag designers. Don't miss it!

::A.Covington for Divas Dreams