You CAN be Stylish With a Cheap Purse

I admit it...I am a leather snob. Especially when it comes to purses. I love the feel of a handbag constructed of the best leather...not to mention the smell. A "new purse" smell is the best scent I can think of. Strange, huh ? But...the cost...often way out of reach for me. Champagne taste but beer money.

Recently I have been drawn to less expensive purses which are made of materials other than leather. Often referred to as "cheap purses", there are many styles that are en-trend. Plus, with today's financial concerns, it is hard to stay stylish with purses costing a small fortune.

When speaking of cheap purses and handbags, in my opinion, a cheap purse does not always mean it is a piece of garbage - it often means it is inexpensive. Many people cringe at the thought of carrying a cheap purse; who wants a purse that is going to fall apart on them? Who wants a purse that won't last more than a season or two? Who wants a purse that is made of inferior material? How sturdy are cheap purses? While these are legitimate concerns, many cheap purses are well made and last several years.

How Well Do Cheap, aka Inexpensive, Purses Hold Up ?

Although genuine leather is a very durable material for the use of handbags and purses, today's synthetic materials last for quite a few years. Especially if you are a woman who changes purses often. A cheap purse made of synthetic material closely resembles leather - in look and feel. Often referred to as synthetic leather, leatherette, or pleather, this material holds up quite well. Synthetic leather has come a long way in recent years: in durability, ease of care, and the ability to hold dye. Unfortunately, it does not have the scrumptious scent of real leather. But, if that is not too important to you, it doesn't matter, does it? A synthetic leather purse does not scratch like real leather. Which can be a plus. I have seen some leather purses that have been all scratched up.

Cheap Purses and the Changing Trends

Purse trends change - often. Currently, the oversized tote is the trend. Clutches and Convertable Clutches are expected to be the trend of the Summer. Large hobos were in style last year. In addition to the actual style of the purse, the added flare is a constantly changing trend. Embelishments such as buckles, large hoop rings attaching the straps to the bag, draw string closure, and chain detail are a few of the stylish add-ons.

To stay en-trend with your handbags can get expensive. Especially if you purchase a new bag with every changing trend - or at least every year. Cheap, aka inexpensive, purses allow the luxury of carrying the latest style without spending a fortune. You can easily spend $300 or more on one single purse, or $300.00 on 3 or more purses, each of a different style and trend.

Think of it this way: as frequently as purse trends change, why use the same expensive - out of date - purse ? Having several trendy cheap purses ensures you will be stylish. 

Designer Inspired Cheap Purses

A designer inspired purse is just that - a purse that is created to resemble that of a top, high-end designer. Handbags and purses from designers such as Channel, Dooney & Bourke, and the like are quite expensive. And, if you're on a budget, virtualy out of reach. Fortunately for those who want to stay en-trend but remain within budget, inexpensive designer inspired purses are within easy grasp. Fashion forward purses are available for under $100.00, and they closely resemble the (much) more expensive handbags.

Author of this article, Kathleen Lewis, retains exclusive rights.