Since my last few picks have been “higher end,” I decided to stick to a budget this week! (I’m doing this as much for myself as I am for all of you. Trust me.)

ALDO is a company founded in the ’70s in Montreal, Quebec, Canada (represent!) by Aldo Bensadoun. In 1993, ALDO skipped across the border and joined my friends in the United States, designing fashionable, affordable shoes before expanding to handbags and other accessories. ALDO is now a giant, international corporation with over 1,000 stores in 160 countries!

The Decourcey is an example of what ALDO does best: takes a classic and put their own spin on it. In this case, they’re elaborating on the classic black, quilted handbag with a chain strap. Made of 100% synthetic material with a semi-matte finish, this bag won’t run your bank account into the ground (like a Marc Jacobs or, gasp, Chanel), but will give you major style points. Like I said, the front is quilted, but the back is solid black. The bag has no obvious front side, so you could wear it either way, making it even more versatile.The chain straps are silver-toned and go with everything you could imagine. Seriously, this bag would look great with a chic leather jacket or a dainty sundress!

The Decourcey is a medium-sized purse (14′ L x 12′ H), with three inner sections perfect for separating your school and social life. The front section has two slip pockets, while the back has an additional zip pocket. My favorite feature has to be the middle section, though. It has a full zipper closure and it perfect for keeping all your lipgloss, handcream, gum, etc – the little things you reach for often that get lost in your oversized bag. It’s a small, simple addition, but it’s incredibly functional. The whole thing closes with a zipper, securing everything. Even more, there is a zip pocket on both front and back of the purse, where I like to keep my cell phone.

Notice the three separate sections!

I like bringing this one to class with me. I can fit my big notebook in the back section, along with a textbook if I so choose, but there is still room for all my other necessities. I can imagine that the Decourcey would make a great travel companion! You could fit your passport, itinerary and ticket in the middle zip pocket for easy access (and safekeeping!) and still have loads of room for your iPod, a novel and makeup bag for in-flight touch-ups. Plus, with the black color, you can save some space and wear it with everything on your trip and you’re not likely to notice any stains or scuffs from the flight.

Have you ever tried to bring a white purse on a plane? Let me tell you, it is more hassle than it’s worth!

Bonus: You’ll notice that in the stock image, the bag comes with a little mesh flower. I didn’t care for it on the purse, but it clips right off and, voila! New hair accessory! If that’s not thrifty, I don’t know what is.

Seriously, this one if the PERFECT everyday bag; tons of storage and pockets, a neutral color and a classic style! The Decourcey regularly retails for $50, but right now it’s on promo for $39.98 in the States and $20.98 for all you lucky Canucks!

Check out Alex’s other must-have-bags (and say goodbye to your savings account) here.

Even if you don’t live in a cold climate (like Northwestern Ontario – there is a snowstorm going on as I write this!), you know there is a clear distinction between winter and summer wardrobe pieces, including handbags. For example, a purse covered in mink fur ain’t gonna fly in July. Not only will you look silly, the fur with make your arm hot, causing it to sweat, which will mat the fur and make you smell like a wet dog. Okay, I know, a semi-graphic example, but I think my point has been made. Because of this distinction, it’s important to incorporate some transition pieces into your closet. And this is where the Poya by See by Chloe comes in!

See is the diffusion line of Chloe, a chic French fashion house that is very popular with It Gals. Not only do they have a full ready-to-wear line of apparel, they also make gorgeous bags with the same street-style feel. While it may be hard to pull off a more couture Chloe dress for your day full of classes, a See by Chloe dress would be easy peasy. (Not to mention, easier on the wallet.)

The Poya is made of supple leather with dainty scallop details in a complementary shade. It’s a medium-sized satchel (14 L x 11 H x 6 D), so it will fit all your purse essentials. While it may not fit multiple textbooks, it’s the perfect size for a day of classes or shopping with your girls. The front flap opens up to reveal the main compartment, complete with a back zipper pocket for your precious trinkets

Now, you may ask what makes the Poya a great transition purse. The whisky-colored leather is a workable neutral that doesn’t have a specific season, like chocolate brown leather would be fit for winter. Also, the scallop detail make it girly enough to wear with a flowy gypsy top and cutoff denim shorts. Don’t believe me? See the two outfits I created below!

See?! How cute does the Poya look with both these outfits?! It’s not often that you find a bag that you can wear year round, so when you do, hold on tight.

The Poya from See by Chloe is priced at $495 and currently available at Nordstrom (which happens to be an Ebates affiliate! Hello, cash back!). However, it’s selling out fast, so don’t hesitate to pick one up! It’s not the cheapest satchel available, but when you consider that it’s made of real, quality leather and can virtually be worn every day of the year, it becomes a solid and justifiable purchase.

Check out Alex’s other must-have-bags (and say goodbye to your savings account) here.

Every girl needs a good purse (or 12). Whether you’re going for groceries or running from class to class, they are simply essential for holding all your, uh, essentials. Each week, I’m going to show you a fashionable, yet functional purse for the college crowd and let you know why you absolutely need it! I apologize ahead of time to your bank account.

Urban Outfitters has been one of my favorite shops since I was a funky 15-year-old trying to spice up my Catholic school uniform. They specialize in quirky yet stylish fashions for the girl who wants to be a little bit different. Besides carrying great, vintage-inspired clothing, Urban Outfitters also has a phenomenal selection of purses to suit your every need! Many are “online only,” but since they have a great website and even better return policy (seriously, the best one out there), you don’t have to worry about ordering and not loving your purchase.

Cooperative is a company that sells lots through Urban Outfitters, including, of course, some fabulous purses. I couldn’t find ANY brand info about this one, so I can’t really tell you where they come from or the inspiration behind them. If anyone knows, let me know!

Mulberry Alexa ($$$$)

The Turnlock Tote is reminiscent of the Mulberry Alexa, a bag that is astronomically outside of most college students’ price range. With the same clasp on the front (more for show than functionality on this purse) and structured shape, you’re getting a similar vibe for a fraction of the price. If you really want the math, the Cooperative Turnlock Tote is actually only 6% of the price of a Mulberry Alexa. Despite this steal of a deal, I’m not recommending this one solely because it reminds me of a designer purse. I don’t like the idea of total knockoffs; they make the wearer seem cheap (even though you have better things to blow a grand on) and are often used to fund bad stuff. Seriously, check out the issue here.

Anyways, the Cooperative Turnlock Tote is made from faux-leather, pebbled to look just like the real thing. It’s available in a rich chocolate brown, a dainty dove grey, or my fave, a punchy ultramarine, simply called “blue.” All three of the colors are perfect selections for spring/summer and will effortlessly blend into any wardrobe. The tote is a medium to large sized bag (12.5 L x 14 H) and features a magnetic snap closure. I’m often hesitant about bags that don’t have a zipper closure, but with a 14′ depth, I think it would be pretty clear if someone was feeling around for your wallet. There are also three external pockets (all with magnetic closure to keep your goodies safe!), a zippered back pocket and a slip pocket on the inside. Definitely enough room for all your trinkets, including a textbook or notebook, making this bag “school friendly.” It’s also features one of choice extras: a removable cross-body strap. As Charlie Sheen would say: Winner!

If you’re looking for a fun, yet sophisticated everyday purse, then this one is for you! It’s fashionable, it’s multi-functional, and it will only run you $68! This one seems like a no brainer. The Totally Turnlock Tote is available exclusively at Urban Outfitters stores and urbanoutfitters.com.

Check out Alex’s other must-have-bags (and say goodbye to your savings account) here.

When you go out, you need to be able to carry around all your stuff–money/cards and I.D., keys, phone, camera, lipgloss, etc.–but you don’t want to be weighed down by your usual purse.  Which is why a clutch or wristlet is an absolute necessity for every college girl: they’re small enough that they won’t get in your way while you’re trying to navigate a crowded bar, but big enough to hold the essentials.

These options are all cute, big enough to hold everything you need, and cost $20 or less!

The leopard print on this one is a fun (and super fashionable) alternative to a solid-colored purse.  It’s practically a steal at only $13.98! Plus, the chain strap is removable, giving you options for different looks!

This bag is perfect for a fancy event or any special night out. With all that bling, it’s the only accessory you need!  And don’t be fooled: the pretty beading on this clutch only make it look expensive.  It’s only $18.80!

This clutch is simple enough to be dressed up or down, and the separate zippered compartments are perfect for separating the important stuff (i.e. your money and cards) from everything else (i.e. the band-aids you brought for the walk home).  Plus, the color is just gorgeous.

This clutch’s simple design makes it perfect for night or day, and it’s just another example of why quilted bags are are always in style! It comes in five different colors, and at only $15.90, you might think about buying a few!

I am a firm believer in all things sparkly when it comes to nighttime clothing and accessories.  This bag will get you lots of attention and  compliments!

Oh, where do I begin with this bag?  It’s purple , the ruffles are adorable, and it’s only $8.99!

A black clutch is essential, but this one is far from basic.  The studs and chain strap will add a little bit of edge to any outfit.

The classic envelope shape of this clutch is updated with a pretty, goes-with-everything metallic snakeskin material and zipper trim.  Everyone will think you spent a lot more than $17.99 on it!

[The following post was written by the lovely ladies at CollegeFashion.net. Have you checked 'em out yet? You should. Right now. OK, after you read this.]

Though I’m usually into spacious, oversized bags, minimalist-inspired cross body bags have been on my radar for the past few months. Cross body bags are great for those times when you don’t need or want to carry a ton of stuff with you–think simple shopping trips, nights out, or house parties. And since you have to fit all of your things into that tiny space, you’ll make sure to pack only the essentials, right?

Why it’s a favorite:

Security. Not only can you swing a cross body bag over your shoulder and walk with confidence knowing it won’t get in your way, but when you wear one across your body, it makes it difficult for anyone to swipe your stuff. That’s a plus any way you look at it!

Convenience. Let’s be honest: carrying around a cute clutch gets obnoxious sometimes! (Case in point? One of my good friends once brought a big silver clutch to a club and got so sick of carrying it that she threw it away!) And while we love wristlets, they can be annoying when you’re attempting to dance or grab a drink. With a cross body bag, though, you’re covered. Grab your things, slip it on, and forget about it until you need to touch up your lip gloss.

Cost-effective. Small purse, (usually) small price tag! Need I say more?!

Cute! I love the look of a cross body bag with just about any outfit. They’re a little bit sporty, totally chic, and work well whether you’re in an oversized sweater and leggings or a flirty bandage skirt. The hands-free style is catching on and some of our favorite celebrities seem to agree– so make sure to be on the lookout for cross body bags this season!

Tips for purchasing a bag of your own:

Pick a length that’s right for you. As with any other bag, when choosing a cross body purse, you should consider the length of the strap. Finding a length you like and that flatters you is fairly easy (and intuitive–short girl, shorter strap; tall girl, longer strap!) and many of today’s bags feature a strap that’s adjustable. Bonus points if you want to carry your cross body on one shoulder like a traditional purse!

Consider your shape. Cross body bags generally hit around the waist or hip. If you want to play down either of these areas, a larger bag in a solid color is a good bet. Want to show off your shape? Try a small, brightly-colored bag! The width of the strap of your bag will also highlight your shape, so choose accordingly.z
Show your style! Consider yourself a boho babe? Try a distressed leather4 or ethnic-inspired bag! Classic? Go for a vintage leather satchel! Preppy? Go for a swing pack. Edgy? Look for studs, fringe, or bright colors! No matter what look you rock, you’ll be able to find a cute cross body bag to accent your outfit.

You ready for some fabulous cross body bags at every price point? Check ‘em out right here.

Once upon a time, my great friend showed me a little website she knew and loved called Etsy.com. “It’s Betsy without the ‘B’” she said ever so kindly as I typed it into my browser. She did however, fail to tell me I was going to lose an average of 3 hours a day digging into the website and dumping my very shallow money truck into the virtual Etsy ‘shopping cart.’

Etsy.com is fashion crack. And I love it. It puts me in a happy place of inspiration and vintage goodies. Anybody can share and sell their vintage or homemade items on the site. And anybody can put the light out on their paycheck buy the vintage goods.  But sometimes it can be difficult to find that perfect item going for cheap.  Good thing CollegeCandy is here, because we’ve got proof that 8 Under $20 is so pleasantly possible on Etsy.com.

[Important Note]: Some of these items only have one in stock. So if you really fall in love, act fast and whip out that VISA. Otherwise, just go explore Etsy. It has many many beautiful vintage items to lust after.

I am double lusting over this intricately design vintage purse from India. It’s a modest price is only $11.50.  I knew elephants were lucky.

Awww, Etsy is so amazing. I just want to marry it. Anyway, this super girly lace tea skirt is so unique I want it in my closet right meow. It is perfectly casual for any event and would put the ‘innocently sweet’ message into any outfit. Oh, and it would look to-die-for with a pair of equally unique flats.

The gem selling this item also sells it in yellow and white.  The vintage hanky sleeves are adorable and sweet. This simplistic top would look glorious with a pair of skinny jeans and a Popsicle (just don’t drip on the shirt, please).

This beautiful silk scarf would splash a world of color onto any simple outfit. I’m loving the cool blue color and free-bird tie dye. Perfect for a summer night.

This glorious balloon skirt would look great with a white tee and leather jacket. It’s flirty and versatile and looks way heftier a prize than $19.90.  To top it off, it is a unique design and looks like something that would come straight off the Urban Outfitters rack.

I may have worn KEDS when I was 12, but since I purchased a romper today I decided it would be tangible to take another prance down memory lane. Besides, these flowery red and white ones are cute ya’ll (yep, they come with a southern accent). Anyway, at only $8.50 who could pass these up? They would be cute with anything denim.

I’m crushing over these pale blue mini-rose earrings.  They are like a packet of Splenda on any outfit.  From jeans and a white tee to any flirty sundress, these earrings would sweeten up every look.

This vintage polo beach bag is perfect for a summer afternoon. It’s nautical, it’s casual and the rope handles and leather strap grip are so Hampton beach party, I’m dying to have it as my own.

Handbags may take home the gold for the biggest problem-poser during the summer months (okay perhaps a close second to melting foundation and yellow pit stains).

All fall and winter I run about my life with a two-ton bag slung over my shoulder (and the red marks to prove it). Seriously stick your hand in there and you’re likely to find half of Sephora, enough snacks to feed a small army and a textbook-sized agenda. And while the chocked full schedule may die down a little during the summer months (making room for the much needed lazy days on the beach…or in bed, whatever), that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to decide what stuff can stay and what has to be left at home.

I love my big bags, but I love my sanity more and there is just no way I could deal with a 12 pound bag in the sweltering heat of summer. Which means a chic, easy-to wear and most importantly compact(!) bag is on the top of my wish list.

And Steve Madden’s Bleigh handbag fits the bill perfectly. Seriously Steve, I now know what love feels like.

The Chanel inspired checkerboard is chic and sophisticated, but the ladylike factor is toned down with the muted gray tone making it just as appropriate for a night out as it is for Sunday brunch. And the best detail of all is the rocker studs which are just the perfect size to add some unexpected flare to an otherwise feminine bag without going overboard into punk-rock territory.

The braided chain clips to the body of the handbag with a solid clasp, so it will totally be able to support all the crap I will attempt to stuff in there. And I am way too excited by the fact that I can unclasp the chain and turn this into an adorable clutch (!!). Hey, I’m all about getting bang for my buck and if I can throw this over my shoulder to run errands on Saturday afternoon and then tuck it under my shoulder with a little black mini-dress to hit the town, then it is definitely a justifiable purchase.

So here’s to you, Steve Madden. Thanks for making all of my summer dreams come true.

The following post is courtesy of our uber fashionable friends at CollegeFashion.net. Check ‘em out – they rock our socks off.

In Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic series, Becky explains her obsession with Denny and George scarves. They’re super luxurious, super gorgeous, and every girl aspires to own one — and correspondingly, they’re super expensive. Accessorize, on the other hand, is a generic store that sells various accessories, much cheaper than the brand-name Denny and George.

“Usually what happens is, I spend half an hour lusting after scarves in Denny and George, then go off to Accessorize and buy myself something to cheer myself up. I’ve got a whole drawerful of Denny and George substitutes.”

If you’re anything of a strategic shopper with limited funds (practically the definition of a college girl), you may have paused here, like I did, to say… but wait! Why didn’t she stop buying junk at Accessorize, and save up for the Denny & George? Probably if she held off on 10 items from Accessorize, she’d be able to get the scarf!

Yes, it’s a classic fashion dilemma, to buy many cheaper, lower-quality items, or a few (or one) expensive, high-quality items? There are advantages and disadvantages either way, and most of the time it’s ultimately up to the type of shopper you are. I’m firmly in the latter camp, and am here to show you five routes through which you can purchase a premier designer bag for less than retail price!

Before We Begin….

To fully use my tips, however, you need to stop wasting money on substitute brands, i.e. doing what Becky did with Accessorize. Just because you can’t afford Chanel doesn’t mean you should continuously squander your money on Guess!

Premier designer bags (Chanel, Chloé, Balenciaga, etc) have classic designs that are still bought and sold today, many decades after their original release, and are also reinterpreted with new materials and variations. Non-premier designers (L.A.M.B., Kooba, Juicy Couture, etc.) usually don’t have a “famous bag,” and so bags by those brands lose both their appeal and price value within a couple years time. Premier designer bags, on the other hand, often resell for at least 75% of their retail value (depending on the bag condition), and often much more than their retail value if the specific color/variation is prized or discontinued. They are a much better investment for your hard-earned dollars.

Now, on to the tips!
There are typically five routes through which you can buy a premier designer bag for less than the retail price: designer boutiques, department stores, eBay/Bonanzle, consignment shops, and online stores.

Want to know how to get the best deals? Get the deets at CollegeFashion.

Yes, the name in itself sounds a little WTF with a pinch of late-night infomercial, but have no fear, the Cleavage Caddy may just be our new savior. What is it exactly? Well it’s a bra…that also simultaneously doubles as a mini-purse! Plus, if you’re wearing a low-cut top, it makes a very cute layering cami.

That’s three essentials for the price of one. Holler.

This may be the most clever invention for women since…let me think…birth control? Think about those nights when you’re out on the town, bar hopping, and along with your 5-inch platform pumps and skinny minny dresses, you have to worry about holding a clutch/purse with all your valuables. With the cleavage caddy, you can easily stuff everything you need to bring (ID, lipstick, money, keys, credit cards, charm and wit) into your cleavage and be a social butterfly the whole night. Not only will you be hands-free for those Long Island ice teas, the cleavage caddy will definitely add a kick to your step.

And just think of the spectacle you would cause when you effortlessly pull your ID out from your cleavage for the bouncer, who will be so enamored with you and your “caddy” that you won’t have to reach back in there to grab your money; he’ll let you in for free fo sho. And that guy you’ve been eying? Just seductively whip that lipstick out of your hands-free purse, and he won’t know what to do with himself. Yes, this does bring back memories of high school bra stuffing, but trust me, this is way more classy… and efficient.

For only $29.95, you can get your very own cleavage caddy in a wide variety of colors, styles and fabrics at the official site. Personally, I’m all about the black lace caddy – it’s seductive without being slutty and gives off the whole ’40s vixen vibe.

Me-ow.

That bag for me at the moment is the Deena & Ozzy Canvas Menswear Tote from Urban Outfitters. I’ve already had a couple of warm weather ensembles that felt like they were missing something and the minute I laid eyes on this bag I knew it was just what I needed.

It reincarnates the lazy, romance of summer with its soft canvas material and adorable buckle strap closure. It reminds me of a student traveling abroad in a romantic European country. And I am ready to bring a little European romance into my totally average American life. The mix of details is genius; the classic canvas tote is updated with a rustic flare from the buckled closure and soft leather detailing.

And the bag is so versatile that you can choose to channel certain details to complete an outfit.

The faux leather trim would complete a sophisticated student look with a pair of cuffed boyfriend jeans, a tank and some oxfords, using the long strap to wear it as a cross body tote. Remove the straps and you’ve got a chic addition to a floral summer dress and a jean jacket. It would even be adorable as a beach bag, big enough to stuff in a towel and some sun block, and an unexpected touch to a string bikini top and some white linen Capri’s (not to mention how seamlessly it would transition from the sand and sun to cocktails on the boardwalk).

And the designer made sure to appeal to a variety of styles by making it in three very distinct color combinations. I’m loving the ivory as my style is feeling more classic and fresh this summer, but for a more modern look the white canvas and black leather has a chic, retro feel, and the pastel blue canvas is perfect for the girly girls among us looking for something more feminine and flirty.