Usually, I find myself toting around my camera, brush, face makeup, and much more, but I have discovered that on an outing to dinner, I only need the essentials. So, rather than carrying around a clunky, heavy handbag that is filled with unnecessary items, I have decided to expand my ever-growing handbag collection with clutches.

For this reason, I have selected the Lauren Merkin Louise Glittered Linen Clutch as my September Handbag of the Month.

Constructed of shimmering green linen, which appears to almost radiate a turquoise tone, this clutch has been reasonably priced at $180. Flaunting beautiful pleats on the front side and a squared topside, this clutch can be easily dressed up with black clothing, or playfully used with bright, imaginative colors.

Composed of Lurex Ò bengaline lining, the Louise Glittered Linen Clutch has been sized at 7 inches high and 14 inches wide.

Also offered in natural tan, hot pink, and a variety of other colors and textures, your compact, lipstick, mints, money, and a few more items, will be sure to fit into this head turning clutch.

If you are tired of being plagued by an overbearing purse, I would suggest trying a stylish evening bag like the Louise Glittered Linen Clutch by Lauren Merkin today.

Get started on your way toward a more enjoyable, fashionable night out. You can see more of this clutch, or the other stunning bags offered by Lauren Merkin, by browsing the line’s Web site.

Photo Credit: Polyvore ä & Lauren Merkin

Infatuated with all shades of the color purple, this season’s handbag trend feels like it has been crafted just for me!

That is why, for the August Handbag of the Month, I have selected the Lattington Satchel from MICHAEL by Michael Kors. A cheaper sub-brand of Michael Kors, MICHAEL offers buyers a chance to purchase a fabulous bag from the designer at half the price.

Listed at $398, the Lattington Satchel comes in shades of purple, black, and luggage. Accented with gold rivets that drape the front and backside of the purse, the Lattington Satchel features textured leather, a zip closure, interior zip pockets, and a chain to attach your keys to.

Sized 14 inches wide and 8 inches high, this bag will fit perfectly in your hand without overpowering your outfit. Said to be medium sized, this purse can potentially hold a water bottle, wallet, and small book, according to the Nordstrom Web site. And, should you tire of toting your purse around in your hand, this bag also has a 24 inch detachable strap if you decide to carry it on your shoulder.

A perfect fit with the fall trend, you’ll be sure to turn heads with the Lattington Satchel. Already available at such stores as Nordstrom and Michael Kors, you can order the handbag, or purchase in-store as well.

So, be bold and purchase your purple Lattington Satchel today!

Photo credits: Nordstrom and Michael Kors

My purse, as I have mentioned in previous posts, is my life. This may sound odd, but to a purse obsessed individual like myself, it makes perfect sense. Carrying my most treasured possessions, my bag is usually full of an array of items, ranging from video games to lint brushes, several pairs of sunglasses (I can be indecisive!), sunscreen, and even gloves. Because of this, I am always searching for larger sized bags to hold all of my “junk,” as my boyfriend refers to it.

So, for this month, I would like to introduce you to my latest purse purchase, The Marc by Marc Jacobs, “Dr. Q Fraser” pleated tote from the Fall/Winter 2008 collection. Purchased at Nordstrom for $558, this handbag is said to hold a magazine, water bottle, and wallet, but I must say I have found it to actually hold much more.

Available only in black leather, the purse features a magnetic close top, convenient for women always hurriedly searching ransacking through their purses in need of their cell phone. With spaces for a pack of gum, an iPod, and an interior zipper, the green lined inside of this 16 by 13 inch bag has almost been filled to its capacity. Stretching out slightly as more items accumulate in it, this bag has been a wonderful purchase that has indeed carried all of my belongings.

A perfect fit with any outfit, my new purse can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. A more reasonable brand from my May handbag of the month that showcased designer Marc Jacobs’ bags, Marc by Marc Jacobs, is a sub-brand of the designer that offers numerous, fashionable purses, jewelry, and clothing at affordable prices. Should you decide you are in need of a good, sturdy, black handbag (my Monster energy drink exploded in it, and it dried flawlessly), a bag that can carry your entire closet in it, or just a stylish bag, I suggest you go purchase the “Dr. Q Fraser” pleated tote today!

Photo Credit: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus