Contrary to popular belief, it’s not diamonds that are a girl’s best friend, but the everyday handbag!

The new season handbag is a crucial investment. In equal parts, the bag must be practical, aesthetically pleasing and strong enough to bear the brunt of daily wear and tear. Price is another hugely important factor. Like a good pair of shoes, a handbag’s longevity is often seen in correlation to its price tag. Cheaper bags on the high street, sometimes, sadly do not stand the test of time. On the other hand, high end luxury bags are, for many, out of budget, making the purchase unjustifiable for the average salary.

French brand, Gerard Darel has certainly identified a gap in the market when it comes to sturdy everyday handbags, with a designer name and affordable price. The fashion house specialises in easy, clean and modern designs, which would work seamlessly with any wardrobe. The bags are also a great size, large enough for all the essentials plus room for additional purchases! Celebrity fans include Sarah Jessica Parker (who has been snapped wearing a number of the brand’s bags recently), Eva Longoria and Gwyneth Paltrow.

What is more, the Gerard Darel bags are very reasonably priced, ranging from £250-£450. Beautifully designed, these everyday totes will not only last the distance but the trends too. iFashion loves the hand knitted bags with leather handles, as seen on Sarah Jessica Parker. To see the rest of the fabulous collection, visit: www.maboutique.co.uk or Gerarddarel.com