The trend this year has been for big, functional bags that can actually even carry the kitchen stove top, if needed. Voluminous bags that have separate compartments and may be slung over the shoulder while you go for a morning shopping spree or step into the airport. So, what brands are making these bags?

Hermes Birkin: This luxury bag has a delicious story behind it. It has been named after the actress Jane Birkin who had a tumultuous romantic relationship at a time when such things were unheard of in polite society. Add to this the fact that the bag has caught a lot of public attention from shows like ‘Sex and the City’, and you begin to see why this beauty costs approximately $6,000 a piece and can come to you only after a waiting period of 2 years or more! The classic designer handbag with hand chain is spacious and has enough room for most things. No wonder the bag is expected to sell like hot cakes this season.

Chanel 2.55: It’s compact and it is old. Really old. Probably older than your grandmother. But the wonderful thing about this beauty is that it is still very much in! This classic beauty was conceptualized and released in 1955. But the very fact that an updated version was released in 1996 on demand is a testament to its popularity.

Louis Vuitton Speedy 35: LV bags are generally very much the flavor of any season. So, if you have bought a new bag in 2009, you can probably wear it for the better part of the year. Still Speedy 35 is slated to be one of the top picks of the season, particularly among working women.

Balenciaga: Ever seen the designer handbags in their motorcycle inspired line? Interestingly, these bags are made from distressed goat leather and that is what gives them a unique shape. Of the various designs that came out in the recent past, the ‘City’ bag is easily the most seen bag as it was a favorite with many fashionistas of the day. Be prepared to shell out more than $1,000 for this beauty. for replica Balenciaga handbags, come to lovemypursemall.

Chloe Paddington: If any bag epitomizes the ‘Boho-Chic’ style, it has got to be this slouchy, structure-less bag. Although the bag first appeared in 2005, it is still setting hearts on fire.

Now you have a sketchy idea of what to buy. All you need to do is go out and buy your handbag.