Finding the right outfit for an outing is difficult enough, but add the pressure of choosing the right handbag… That’s just not fair. Choosing the right handbag is a lot like predicting the future. What items will you need? What will the weather be like? Will you have somewhere to put your bag? Seriously, it’s not like you’re Miss Cleo! So if your crystal ball is a little hazy and your magic 8 ball is missing, what you really need is a go-to guide to handbag selection… Read now, you can thank me later.

In Da Club. Whether you’re a dancing queen or a wallflower, handbags are simply a nightlife burden. Limit yourself to only the essentials (cell phone, keys, lip gloss, etc.) and invest in a chic wristlet. Wristlets are the perfect small, compact and hands free option so you’re free to shake yo groove thang.

In the Air. When you’re flying, the style of the bag isn’t so much the issue as the size of the bag. Bigger is better - just make sure it fits under the seat in front of you. Choose a bag that will hold a magazine, a fully charged iPod and a water bottle. Before you start packing, be sure to dump out the contents of whichever bag you choose. This will help ensure that those scissors don’t sneak their way into your bag and cause you problems going through security.

At the Ballgame. Before you go cheer on your favorite team it’s good to do a little research. Some stadiums like to punish the well-prepared by making bag-carriers go through a separate, and painfully slow, inspection line. If this is the case, it might be wise to forgo a bag altogether. However, if this isn’t the case, choose a handbag that’s small enough to fit under the seat but big enough to fit an unopened bottle of water (a great way to avoid paying those ridiculous stadium prices). Also, choose a fabric that can be easily cleaned when the guy sitting next to you spills his beer, because he will.

Front Row Center. You’ve got the tickets, now you just need the bag. If the concert is general admission, go with a wristlet. A handbag would just get in the way of the moshing and crowd surfing you’re sure to do. If you have seats however, don’t worry so much about size, just choose something fun and funky.

Out on the Town. If you’re headed out for a nice dinner (or if you’re a poor college student like myself and the nicest dinner you can afford is at Chipotle) try to scale down. There is no need to bring the oversized handbag you lug around all day. You won’t be needing to whip out a granola bar or the latest issue of Cosmo. Instead opt for something small and classic. A cute shoulder bag is a great option for a night out.

In the Mountains. If fresh air and scenic views are your thing, you’re going to need a good messenger bag or backpack. Packing for a day in the wilderness requires some preparation. You’re going to want a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen and a camera to capture the beauty of mother nature, just for for starters. A messenger bag is a great option because it’s large enough to hold everything you’ll need plus it will keep your hands free for that perfect walking stick you’re sure to find.

By the Sea. For fun in the sun, whether it be on the beach or by the pool, a tote is the best way to go. Choose one that is large enough to hold a beach towel and a change of clothes. Also keep in mind, the more pockets and dividers you have, the more places there are for sand to hide.

On the Road. Everyone loves a good road trip. Good friends, good music, and the open road - what more could you ask for? Before you embark on your next spontaneous adventure, be sure to grab your oversized handbag. Fill it with mix CDs, snacks and some emergency cash and you’re ready to roll.

Photo: zappos.com

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