The Five Hottest Handbags of 2008

Most ladies will tell you they can never have too many bags or shoes and while many of us know that in shoes it's all about Manolos and Choos the wide world of handbags can be infinitely more complicated. From clutches to oversized totes, logo bags to shoulder bags, which purses made it to the top of the heap in 2008?

Chanel 2.55 Bag

With a price tag of nearly $3000.00 and a storied pedigree it's no surprise that the Chanel 2.55 bag has been spotted on a swarm of celebrities including Lily Allen, Claudia Schiffer, Milla Jovovich, Paris Hilton, and Blake Lively. The bag is a classic first introduced in 1955 and reissued by Karl Lagerfeld in 2005 but really reached the height of its popularity just this year. With signature Chanel components like quilting and chain-link shoulder straps the 2.55 bag is likely to be popular for years to come.

Balenciaga Motorcycle Bag

A staple among today's young stars, the Balenciaga Motorcycle bag pairs rebellious studs and buckles with buttery leather and urban sophistication. Available in a rainbow of colors the bag has been spotted on Lauren Conrad and Sienna Miller. The fact that there is currently a waiting list for the nearly $1600.00 bag on handbag rental website Bag, Borrow or Steal speaks to its popularity.

Hermes Birkin Bag

One of the world's most admired and exclusive bags, the popularity of the Hermes Birkin bag shows no signs of waning in 2008. The yearlong waiting lists associated with the ultra expensive bag, it's celebrity clientele and mentions on television shows and rap albums all add to the allure of the Birkin. Generally starting at $7500.00 the bag can reach 5- to 6-digit prices depending on the materials used. The Birkin has been spotted on devotees like Julia Roberts, Victoria Beckham, and Katie Holmes.

Fendi Spy Bag

Large enough to hold scripts but with a sleek design that won't overpower the slimmest of Hollywood waifs; the Fendi Spy bag is one of the company's biggest hits since it launched the baguette craze of the late 1990s. Substantive, adult and classic, the $2700.00 bag is a favorite of young celebs Ashley Tisdale and Heidi Montag.

Coach Patent Sabrina Purse

Finally, in 2008 some celebrities did sport gorgeous and affordable accessories. The most notable was Hayden Panettiere who was photographed carrying the Coach Patent Sabrina Purse in bisque. The versatile bag includes a convertible chain-link strap and soft patent leather exterior in a variety of colors. Even more appealing is the price, while Hayden's patent purse costs $698.00; Coach also sells a fabric version for $298.00, proving celebrity style can be affordable.

But remember, you don't need one of the hot celebrity handbags of '08 to look hot yourself. Whether you spend $5.00 or $5000.00, choose a handbag that suits your individual style and you're guaranteed to look great.... just don't forget the shoes!

Find out more about these hot bags at the following websites:

Chanel; http://www.chanel.com

Balenciaga; http://www.balenciaga.com

Hernes; http://www.hermes.com

Fendi; http://www.fendi.com/

Coach; http://www.coach.com