When you're out on a mission to have a full day's retail therapy, starting out with one hand already occupied is a serious limitation on how many other bags you're going to be able to carry. Without a shoulder strap you have to use both hands to get anything out of your handbag as well , one to hold the bag, the other to dig around for your purse/mobile/lippy. Even with a shoulder strap things can get teeth-grindingly frustrating: how many times have you found yourself walking along with bags in both hands only to feel your bag slipping off your shoulder? Or felt a little insecure because it's just a little out of sight at your side and with your hands full you can't keep a grip on it so sticky fingers don't have a quick dip or manage to pull it from you? And when you're on a night out with the girls a handbag still presents the same practical problems. Do you want to have a bag in one hand all night? If you choose one with a traditional shoulder strap will you feel it's secure (especially when you're up and dancing)? Across body bags are the answer to all these nightmares and, happy happy times, they're among 2011's must-have bags!

Cross body bags do exactly what they say: with a longer strap they fit over one shoulder and (can you guess?) go across your body, under the other arm. So, it's going to be virtually impossible for someone to grab it from you; the bag can sit on your hip in front of you so you can always have it in sight; fitting across your body stops it from slipping off your shoulder; most importantly it leaves you completely hands-free so you can carry more bags. Genius. On a night out on the town, a small cross body bag, almost a clutch purse on a long strap) gives you security and keeps your hands free for cocktails, dancing.........or that man you've just met........

With across body bags hitting the catwalks worldwide from autumn 2011 and right through this year's shows there are hundreds of beautiful, stylish bags to choose from. Whether you want a designer statement bag, a practical large bag for all your daytime things or a small and pretty bag for the evening there's plenty out there to choose from, and in whatever colour you want.An across body bag can be a great investment for some serious shopping or relaxing, go get one!