Sleek structured handbags for fall put style at your fingertips

By Kristin Hull

Oct 6, 2013, 9:22 am

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An of-the-moment color-block style in neutral shades is versatile enough to carry every day. ($95/Nordstrom) Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Pair this pretty blue cross-body bag with a gray ensemble for a stunning color combo. ($84.99/Modcloth) Photo courtesy of Modcloth

nordstrom Elliott Lucca 'Cordoba' Leather Satchel

The stud detail on this snakeskin satchel gives it a luxe feel. ($188/Nordstrom) Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Liven up any outfit with a bold red handbag. ($90/Accents) Photo courtesy of Accents

Not your classic animal print, this patent version is sure to turn heads. ($130/Topshop) Photo courtesy of Topshop

When you need to be hands-free, a sleek backpack does the trick. ($76/Topshop) Photo courtesy of Topshop

nordstrom Vince Camuto 'Alisa' Crossbody Bag

Break away from the usual black with a bright-colored cross-body bag perfect for at trip to the farmers market or chaperoning a field trip. ($198/Nordstrom) Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Have some fun with a multicolored design that's effortlessly stylish. ($99.90/Zara) Photo courtesy of Zara

A snakeskin cross-body bag works for a luncheon or parent-teacher conference, ($79.95/H&M) Photo courtesy of H&M

forever 21 Iconic Quilted Faux Leather Satchel

The quilting pattern and white piping on this handbag make it look expensive even if it's not. ($29.80/Forever 21) Photo courtesy of Forever 21

A structured handbag doesn't have to be stuffy or conservative. The latest designs are as varied as the women who carry them. For moms, they offer practicality as well as style — a winning combination for anyone who has no time to think about her wardrobe.

A sleek, on-trend handbag also can turn any outfit into something special, whether it's jeans and a tee, a simple shirt dress, or a sexy jumpsuit. From snakeskin to color-blocking to patent, we've picked out a few of our favorite — and, more important, affordable — bags for the fall season.