Croc-embossed leather is the 2008 way of saying you are unbelievably chic, and the runways have taken notice. Calvin Klein's Patent Croc Medium Shopper Tote (top) is stylish and classy, but at $300 at Zappos.com, it's not affordable for some of us.

On the other hand, the roomy and versatile Big Buddha Union Shoulder Bag (bottom) is a perfect way of showing that being trendy doesn't have to mean spending three digits—it's around $75 at Endless.com.

Related Links:

Save money and make money on fashion

How to barter for brand new clothing

The best blog for budget fashionistas

orSend to a friend