Here’s the scoop on some upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales! Find some great deals for gifts… or just splurge for yourself! We’ll continue to update this information as we learn of more deals across the web and in stores… eBags Friends and Family Sale: 20% Off all bags, including those already marked down Discounts appear to be active now: www.ebags.com/cybermonday CyberMonday.com Deals: A variety of special offers from merchants across the web Most discounts become available on Monday, 11/26: www.cybermonday.com BFads.com Deals: A variety of special Black Friday deals and offers across the web Most discounts become available on Thursday, 11/22: www.bfads.com

She’s launched records and won Emmy’s - and now she’s launched Fergie Handbags!  It’s a perfect representation of her personal style and attitude.  Rumor has it she’s adding more bags every month, so check back often…  My favorite is her Fergalicious bag in gunmetal.

How well do you know your handbags? There’s a fun new application on Facebook where you’re scored at your ability to identify handbag designers - and then compared against thousands of other Facebook users! Ready to challenge your handbag IQ? Check it out, and then come back here to brag about your skills: apps.facebook.com/handbags

Do you ever have one of those days where you feel like you just deserve a little extra love? If today is one of those days, I may have your answer: there is a sale on this cute mini Hobo by the Sak. I love the knit fabric, but dark color… so it can play nice whether you’re thinking business or casual.  For less than $30, you can take this one home.

It’s lunchtime and you’re on a budget. Although I would never stoop to brown bag status, I do sneak a snack into my purse from time to time. Believe it or not, the Emma lunch bag by Elle has an insulated interior that carries any meal or snack worry-free! Thanks to thermal coating, each bag is water and stain resistant to spills and can be easily wiped clean on the inside. Based upon the chic exterior, you would never guess this is a lunch sack.

Mirror mirror on the wall, what’s the prettiest bag of all? Francesco Biasia’s Lady Lou shoulder bag is so shiny, you can almost see yourself in it. I love the rich aubergine color and the double handle shoulder straps. Plus, it has heaps of storage space.

Part of the problem with clutches is they’re too small to sneak in a wallet and never have enough pockets to keep things organized. After tossing in a wad of cash, ID, debit card, and lip-gloss, I can never seem to locate what I’m looking for despite the petite size of my pouch. Mundi’s Vintage Pick a Pocket clutch is one of the few small purses around that doesn’t skimp on storage. With 4 slots for credit cards, a removable mini coin purse, and two pockets on both sides of the exterior, you’ll never have to dig again.

As the wind picks up and the temperature drops, I find myself indulging in the comforts of coziness – oversized sweaters, comfy scarves, and suede handbags. Suede is known for it’s soft texture and supple finish. No boyfriend to protect you from the elements this winter? No problem. Cole Haan’s suede zip hobo will turn up the heat on your wardrobe and keep you warm in the process.

Heather English is treading new ground with her environmentally friendly handbags made from 100% inner tubes. English Retreads is a Boulder, CO based company who’s been “round the block” since 2001. They predict that every material component travels 60,000 miles before it is handcrafted into a beautiful handbag, backpack, tote or purse. Heather recommends shining up your bag with Armor All and even offers a free “tune up.” Imagine telling your girlfriends, “Sorry ladies, I have to go get my tires rotated.”

Apparently gray is the new black this fall, so I figure your handbag collection might need a little spice from Arturo so that you don’t blend in with the carpet. I like the color burgundy for business bags because it can be worn with brown or black shoes, whichever you prefer. Also, it makes an impression in interviews and/or meetings with clients. The shade is memorable, and shows that you aren’t afraid to take risks. But if you aren’t too keen on color, the bag also comes in black and brown.

For those of you who love handbags but can’t afford to go all out, try something more middle of the road. Spending an extra hundred may save you in the end. Quality bags last longer and are less likely to go out of style.

1. LaCroix Handbags Elita ($465)
2. Abro Catena Large ($495)
3. Kate Spade Brookline Small Coal ($495)
4. Via Pendio Forza ($485)

Versatility is valuable in my eyes. I like to have options. Claire Sanchez makes what I like to call a “cag” (a.k.a. - clutch/bag). Equipped with an interchangeable leather strap, this beauty converts from clutch to bag in a matter of seconds. Not-to-mention, it’s simply beautiful.