Quilted Handbags are everywhere these days. Department store brands to high-end designers offer their own interpretation of this piece of accessory, which, by the way, has already become a classic rather than a trend.

For some reason, quilted handbags, especially those with diamond or herringbone patterns, look unique and classy. Unique because of the texture it creates, and classy because such a pattern reminds me of Chanel, the brand that produced the very first quilted bag – the iconic Chanel 2.55 Flap.

Did you know that much like the purpose of a crossbody bag, Ms. Coco Chanel made the Chanel 2.55 Flap because she wanted to give women the freedom to do other things with their two hands while they wear their bags over the shoulders?

Anyway, when it comes to quilted handbags, I prefer the classic black or white. Not only is it basic, but it looks more classy. Besides, it is easier to pair these 2 colors with different outfits.

For the crossbody junkie, here are my selections:

The unique combination of this fringed and quilted Steven crossbody will elevate your look to a whole new level

Steven WildSide Large Crossbody, on sale at US$159

Who says you can’t look sporty and delicate at the same time? Try this Juicy Couture Quilted Nylon CrossbodyJuicy Couture Blake Quilted Nylon, on sale at US$115

Head to school or work in this classic, classy, roomy, and super affordable (at only US$44!) quilted bag from Element

Element Jasper Handbag with Crossbody Strap, only US$44

Stand out in the airport with this quilted traveler from Kate Spade!

Kate Spade Coney Island Travel Opus with Crossbody Strap, US$425

Look classically cute but edgy with this small GUESS Crossbody trimmed with embossed croc leather

GUESS Boomerang Small Crossbody Flap, on sale for only US$76

For some reason, a bag with chain straps always looks classier and dressier compared to one with regular leather or fabric straps.

Perhaps this is because it reminds us of the chain straps used by Chanel’s 2.55 Flap Bag, a very iconic piece of accessory that is also quite expensive.

Or maybe it’s because chain straps are made of metal, which is usually made up of gold or silver, which usually relates to jewelry, which usually denotes class, which then depicts wealth.

Either way, bags with chain straps have become perennial and classic accessories, always appearing here and there, from high-end designer brands to mass market department store offerings.

This is why every girl should have at least one chain-strapped bag in her closet. For the crossbody junkie, here are 10 beautiful pieces to choose from, with prices ranging from over the top to under US$100:

D&G Dolce & Gabbana DB0980 E4755 , US$999

Rafe New York Belle Small Crossbody, US$299

BE & D Garbo Mini Bag, US$495

Brighton Bliss Heart Pouch, US$100

Matt & Nat Hendrix Mini Bag, US$165

Roxy T.T. F. N. Handbag with Crossbody Chain Strap, US$42

Tory Burch Jaden Mini Bag, US$250

Liz Claiborne Mae Swing Crossbody, US$86

Nina Dina Bag, US$50

Brighton Roselie Large Coin Purse, US$92

A crossbody bag is a versatile piece of accessory. The numerous crossbody sightings on celebrities are a testament to the popularity and usefulness of this bag. If you’re a crossbody junkie, then I’m sure you know what I mean. For the newbies who are just starting to love this kind of bag, here are top 5 places where you can wear your crossbody:

1. School

This is probably the most popular place to wear a crossbody bag. Even TV shows such as Gossip Girl and Vampire Diaries use crossbody bags as props for cast. For crossbody spottings in movies, try watching “Jennifer’s Body” and you’ll see that Amanda Seyfried’s school girl character sported several crossbody bags. For school, a bigger crossbody bag is most ideal for your books and laptop.  This way, you enjoy the benefit of having both hands free to carry whatever – like that tray of food when eating in the cafeteria, a few more books or school materials, or  your boyfriend’s hand while walking in campus.

Serena Van Der Woodsen (Gossip Girl) and Elena Gilbert (Vampire Diaries) sporting crossbody bags

2. Mall / Grocery Store (Shopping or doing errands)

It’s no secret that a lot of the celebrities spotted sporting this bag were out shopping or doing errands. It’s the perfect accessory if you’re off to do such tasks since it allows both hands free to carry the purchases you’ve accumulated.

Hilary Duff out shopping with a crossbody bag

3. Beach

Going to the beach doesn’t mean you have to leave your cell and bills. What if you need to call someone? What if someone needs to call you? What if you want some ice cream to cool yourself? The crossbody purse will solve your problems. Carry a big one if you want to bring along your towel and other beach essentials. But if you’re just out for a stroll on the shores, a mini crossbody will do.

Denise Richards and model in crossbody bags

4. Club / Party

I’m sure all of you girls go clubbing or partying. I know I do. And I hate bringing my big bag. It’s too bulky, plus I have to worry about it getting stolen if I leave it on the table. So I use a mini crossbody, which I tag along wherever I go.

Leighton Meester ready to party with her mini crossbody

5. Airport / Travel

Just like school and going to the mall, wearing a crossbody bag to the airport (or when you travel) is the most logical thing to do since it allows both your hands free to carry the other things you need to bring. And if you’re already in that foreign place you call your vacation, scouring the market or shopping district will still require you to wear a crossbody so you’re hands can be free to carry the purchases you’ve made.

Michelle Trachtenberg in a crossbody

Katy Perry and Russell Brand exploring the streets of Jaipur, India

So there you have it, five (5) places to wear that crossbody bag. Don’t limit yourself to the five though, if you find an appropriate opportunity to wear that crossbody purse you have in your closet, feel free to do so. Just remember, wear the right crossbody for the right occasion.

To give you an idea, here are a few crossbody selections and where you can possibly use them:

Fossil Montreal Crossbody

The Sak Silver Lake Flap

These two (2) selections are great for school or traveling because of its spacious interior and outer pockets

Jessica Simpson Jimmy Crossbody

A perfect companion when you’re out shopping or doing errands. Not too big, nor too small.

Liz Claiborne Vivien Small Crossbody

Lucky Brand Desert Rose Crossbody

Head to the beach with these two (2) lovely and colorful crossbody options from Liz Claiborne and Lucky Brand.

Betseyville Zsa Zsa Crossbody

Liz Claiborne Crossbody – Glazed P

Head to the club with any of these mini crossbody purses. Not going to the club but need a small purse to fit your cell phone and a few bills? These will do as well.