The right handbag can take an everyday outfit and transform it into a look deserving of a high profile runway. But a handbag isn't just an accessory to spice up a wardrobe; it's also a functional essential for daily life. After all, this is where you store your wallet, your make-up, your cell phone and everything else you just need to take along with you. That's why it's so important to have a variety of styles that fit every need, from a daily work handbag to an evening clutch to a casual weekend tote. But needing a few bags means you can also experiment with a variety of designs and styles. To create versatile looks, its best to stick with classic materials that go with any outfit, and can take you from day to night, from business to pleasure.

One material that not only provides this flexibility but also delivers loads of luxury is leather. Rich and decadent, leather is also the ideal choice when you are looking to invest in a handbag that will last for years to come. Here are a few luscious leather looks that just beg to be touched, tossed over a shoulder and admired by passers-by.

Clutch Purses

Not just for a formal evening affair anymore, clutch purses are coming back into vogue. Modern leather designs make these bags ripe for the picking. Good things do come in small packages and there are many benefits to a leather clutch purse. These handbags take the load off your shoulder, giving you a compact bag that can handle all of your essentials, without becoming overstuffed.

Take for instance the Christian Livingston Gather Detail Clutch. This bag is small and convenient to carry, but has a gathered design that allows for extra storage space. Available in colors like buttercup and orange cream, this bag shows off the softness of the leather construction in both draping details and smooth edges.

For those who need a little more room, there are convertible clutches like the Christian Livingston Lizard Embossed Fold-Over Clutch. Available in black, beige, light green and powder blue, this bag makes a bold statement with its textured lizard skin wash. The tote bag's handle folds down to create a sleek and modern clutch, with the handle becoming a dramatic decorative focal point for the smaller bag.

Shoulder Handbag

The classic shoulder bag gets an updated look thanks to the versatility of leather. With color and shape options that offer both modern and classic designs, swing one of these bags over your shoulder and feel the instant luxury and style. The Madi Claire Front Pocket Croco Embossed Leather Handbag, for example, takes leather to another level. This show stopping bag highlights the natural richness of leather in a chocolate and gold stain complemented with a filigree medallion and decorative tassel. But what's on the inside of this bag is even better. Plenty of zippered compartments make organizing all essentials simple and keeps everything just where you need it.

Leather bags aren't just found in traditional stains and colors. Take the Anuschka Hobo Handbag, a brightly colored, all leather bag that comes in three different designs with artistic themes

colored onto the sides.

Top Handle

For a refined retro look, the top handle handbag makes an instant impression. Sweet and demure, these bags elegantly hang off of the elbow. A leather top handle bag looks especially refined. Because of its solid construction, it keeps it shape while showing off this classic material. La Gioe di Toscana "Sunset" Leather Handbag presents the perfect mix of sophistication and style with its turquoise or animal print colors and square design. A metal heart shaped pull tab adds a modern feel to the bag, while allowing for easy access to essentials.

Another great option is the La Gioe di Toscana Double Exterior Pocket Patent Leather Satchel Handbag. This bag screams sophistication, with a supple leather construction, metallic frame, buckle and delicately thin carrying handle.

Tote Bag

Finally, every girl needs a classic leather tote in her closet. It's the go anywhere, pack anything bag that every woman swears by, whether it's for a weekend vacation or day out shopping. And although the tote purse is a classic look, the Pietro Alessandro Zip Pockets Perforated Italian Leather Fold-Over Tote makes the style cutting edge. This bag has a unique perforated design that transforms the smooth leather into a soft textured, fabric like design. Featuring interior and exterior zippers this bag not only lets you carry a lot, it also allows you to get to your gear easily.

As you can see, leather handbags offer a world of diverse fashion styles. Fun and functional, leather handbags offer infinite wardrobe possibilities for every occasion. By incorporating leather handbags into your life, you can not only rest assured you'll be stylishly chic, but also that you've invested in a durable handbag with a timeless look and feel that only leather can supply.