Mom's Must-Have Purse For Fall |

By Kristin Hull

The backpack purse has returned and it’s definitely not your child’s backpack. What could be more helpful to a mom than having both hands free while out and about? Fortunately, this time around they’re more sophisticated and stylish than ever.

Pick your signature style

Whether you’re a sucker for snakeskin, leather, fringe (a hot fall trend), quilting or animal print there’s a backpack for you. Most of the styles we chose are made up of neutral tones so that they’ll match with a number of outfits. For the days when your ensemble needs a little excitement, pick up an inexpensive one in a bright color or fun pattern. Don’t want the hassle of switching everything from one purse to another? Try this trick.

Why it’s worth spending a little more

A purse, especially a mom’s purse, needs to be durable. It must handle all kinds of terrain from bleachers to sandboxes to buses to the pool. You don’t have to go all out though, in fact, you probably don’t want to. Who wants to put their $400 Louis Vuitton on the floor of a school bus? But, it does make sense to pay a bit more for something you’re going to use every day.

Now, let’s shop!

Top row, left to right:

Chain Strap Zip-Front Backpack ($32.80/Forever 21)

Liz Claiborne Nylon Backpack (now $32.99, reg. $44.99/JC Penney): Also available in black.

Steve Madden Broryy Backpack ($98/Macy’s): Also available in black.

Middle row, left to right:

Kensie Mixology Backpack ($99/Macy’s)

ASOS Real Suede Big Backpack with Fringing ($63.85/Asos – free shipping both ways!): Also available in bright yellow, royal blue, and hunter green.

Faux Leather Backpack ($32.80/Forever 21)

Bottom row, left to right:

Steve Madden Bfluttr Convertible Backpack ($98/Macy’s – free shipping over $75)

Danielle Nicole Sloane Backpack ($88/Macy”s – free shipping over $75)