Handbags may be considered a girl’s best friend this winter, a staple for every fashionista’s closet. There’s just something about a smart, stylish purse that ties any outfit together—completes it if you will. When it came to bags in 2009, the designers and consumers both noticed that bigger was better. Will this trend carry over into next year’s styles? Prediction: a resounding yes!

Actually, this winter’s collection will consist of large handbags, dainty clutches, and smaller purses for every-day use. Color trends for Winter 2009/2010 will be warm and light neutrals, deep earthy tones, and dark, contrasting shades with traces of reds and mauves.

Five designer handbag stores to peruse this winter would be Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and YSL. As usual, they do not disappoint, and all the designers feature styles that could suit any woman’s individual personality.

The first handbag to add to your winter collection would be the Gucci ‘Galaxy’ (left) large shoulder bag with the metal chain strap. This beauty is a combination of emerald green color, python skin detailing, and black patent leather trim. Priced at $3,500.00, this eye-candy will leave both your friends and enemies envious of your fashion sense. www.gucci.com

For the up-coming season, the name of the game is “versatile”—choosing a bag that you can easily take from work in the office to a night on the town. And this year, no one does versatile better than Prada. (This is just my opinion of course, and has nothing to do with the fact that I love Prada bags.) Subsequently, the next item on your long fashion checklist should be the Prada Velluto Jacquard Tote (right). I cannot praise this bag enough.

No one would blame you for taking this beauty to work. It’s chic, smart, and sophisticated—which is also why it complements a sexy black dress so well. Throw on a necklace, earrings, and black pumps—and ladies, you have yourself a winner.  No need to go through the hassle of tossing your personal belongings into yet another bag. Just change your clothes and go. $1,367.00 at www.raffaello-network.com.

Third style necessity on the list is a clutch. Every woman needs a clutch. I shouldn’t have to repeat this, but I will. EVERY WOMAN NEEDS A CLUTCH! You may be the most active, athletic female alive, but you still need a cute, dainty clutch for those fancy occasions that may arise at the most inopportune times. Louis Vuitton features a wide selection of just such items, and that is why his Minaudiere Jersey clutch (left) is essential. With delicate, quilted detailing on the outside, and a shiny gold clasp, this petite find could give your ensemble the powerful punch it needs. Also, the elegant brass chain strap can be hidden neatly inside if you so desire. Available in pink and black, $1,720.78 USD at www.louisvuitton.com.

Next, I was pleased to find Valentino’s selection of bags this year so alluring. For this particular designer, may I recommend to the fashionistas of the world, the Large Rosier Taffeta Tote? For the trendsetters out there who are unafraid to take a walk on the daring side, this tote is perfect. Both refreshing and provocative, you are sure to make an unforgettable first impression. The Large Rosier (right) is made of red taffeta with rosette detailing all over, and boasts goldtone hardware with a patent leather strap. This bag is available in red and bright blue and costs $1,950.00 at www.neimanmarcus.com.

I always make it a point to save the best for last, and this prediction piece is no exception. I was quite impressed with YSL’s (Yves Saint Laurent) purse collection for Winter 2009/2010. From the Large Muse Bag in Blue Patent, to the Small St. Tropez, they are all fun to boast and difficult to resist. However, THE bag for fall/winter 2009/2010 would be (drum roll here please)…the Easy Handbag in Opium Soft Red Patent (left). $995.00 at www.ysl.com. Because let’s face it—nothing gushes “hot and sexy” better than a shiny, sleek red purse.

There you have it ladies—fashion predictions to be mulling over for the next few months. But don’t wait too long—every other woman on the planet has the same idea as you.