If you love pictures that create an optical illusion, then you will love the Burberry Prorsum Herringbone Raffia Clutch. The cool black and white pattern is grounded with a black strap that runs smack down the middle, and you can carry this artsy bag as a clutch or use the attachable strap that turns it into a wristlet. Its style stands alone, ready to go wherever you want to take it. Head over to NET-A-PORTER and order your own piece of art for $750.

So I happened to come across this bag a couple of days ago, flipped out and bought it on the spot. That’s kinda how I roll when I’m accosted by a to-die-for floral print, as anyone who knows me can attest. TheIsland Flor Melinda Satchel is pretty much the leader of garden variety bags right now, boasting an absolutely beautiful tropical print boosted by pops of apricot, mango and plum. Yummy as it sounds, it’s really special because it’s so functional, with an extra-spacious interior and protective feet on the bottom (not that I’d dare place her on the ground). Available for $278 at Nordstrom.

Maison du Posh isn’t so much a house as it is a collective of talents – a “nest,” according to the brand – who strive to create chic, elegant, and memorable pieces that, in their words, “define luxury.” How do they do this? Through “joyful pain” and “endearing love and an open heart for detail.” Um, okay. Off the wall they may be, but their Bite Me Suede and Swarovski Clutch is pretty damn amazing. Elegant? I’d say it’s more on the edgy side, but they still manage to meet their goals of “chic” and “memorable.” With its metal “jaw” biting down, it’s a worthy option for anyone who’s grown tired of the standard McQueen skull. Available for $1178 at LUISAVIAROMA.

This whimsical little number has us hopping up into our chairs with excitement. The Forever 21 Mouse Coin Purse is a darling little faux leather wristlet that is begging to burrow itself into my purse. We can see ourselves taking this out by itself, feeding it the bare necessities and leaving the riffraff at home. The kiss closure and pink ears make this the cutest little purse pet ever. Available for $6 at Forever 21.

Something must be in the water over at Lanvin, because the label is suddenly producing the kinds of bags that I can’t resist – something noteworthy, considering I never paid them much attention before. Now, though, I’m paying attention and moolah – at least, I will be if the Brass Box Clutch has its way and totally takes control of my finances. I’m a big fan of the box silhouette trend, and this is easily one of the most persuasive interpretations yet. While others appear merely, well, boxy, this comes off as polished, structured and elegant, with a beautiful eggplant color competing for attention with a vivacious orange. Depending on your mood – or the season – you can just turn it around to show off your preferred hue. All that, and a gorgeous slinky chain, too? It’s the perfect package. Also in navy/green. Available for $2390 at Satine.

There’s something about the familiar shade this Turquoise Lady Bow Bag boasts that has us hungry for breakfast. While the purse comes with an adjustable crossbody strap, I doubt seriously I’d ever wear it – I look so much more Fifth Avenue carrying it around by the girly white handle that matches the bow. Available from Topshop for $50.

Va va voom, indeed. It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with the Va Va Voom Foldover Chain Clutch, masterfully designed by Valentino. Essentially the fashion house that can do no wrong, they’ve once again managed to craft a bag so gorgeous that it’s almost impossible not to love it. Made with sumptuous, slightly glossy red leather, this stunner can be carried by hand, over the shoulder with the detachable chain strap, or as a tote! Just snap the foldover lid up and you’ve got yourself a cavernous carryall. Relatively simple stud embellishment toughens it up a little bit – just a bit, but enough to make it extra special. Available for $2042 at LUISAVIAROMA.

The Andrea French Satchel is as fresh as a tangerine in spring. The rectangular silhouette is an interesting contrast to the smooth lines of this season’s floral skirts and billowy dresses. The soft leather and tiny gold accents work well with casual or formal attire, giving this bag some extra mileage. Three open pockets and one zippered pouch keep the interior, and our lipsticks, organized. Available for $258 from Vince Camuto.

For the next spring soiree on your agenda, consider going all out with something that won’t kill your bank balance in the process. Natasha Couture presents its Glitter Clutch just in time for wedding season, afternoon tea parties, prom, and so much more. Coated in a pretty, shimmering finish, it’s available in four colors that run the gamut from classic to girly. I’m partial to the latter myself, in the form of this too-cute pink version. It’s topped with a wee bow clasp for the perfect final touch. Available for $68 at Nordstrom.

Over the years I’ve covered hundreds of bags – some practical, some ridiculously wasteful and not worth even a smidgen of the expense. I know some Lanvin fanatic is going to come after me with a pointy stiletto, but I have to say that the label’s Minaudiere Round Evening Bag falls in the latter group for me. Sure, it’s nice to look at, but it’s absurdly small and is the kind of thing that one might lose if she isn’t careful. It does feature a long strap, but somehow it loses its elegance when worn on the shoulder. And with barely any room inside, this bag doesn’t win any points for usefulness! Available for $2835 at Lanvin.