As the character Clairee Belcher so famously said in the movie Steel Magnolias, "The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize." Today, handbags have surpassed jewelry and shoes as the ultimate fashion accessory. Indeed, for many women, a handbag is much more than a vehicle for carrying items around; it's a statement of identity. Although they're more utilitarian in nature, the same thing can be said for backpacks, duffel bags, luggage, sports bags, cooler bags, and even laptop briefcases.

Any parent who has ever shopped for school backpacks knows that a backpack is more than a bag for carrying books; the color, the features, and the design of backpacks are all important to a child, teen, or college student. Likewise, someone who spends their leisure time hiking may want you to think function is more important than fashion, but they want their hiking backpacks to both fit great and look great. Ditto for travel bags and even fanny packs. Regardless of the type of backpack or bag, the owner wants to feel as though it reflects his or her personality.

That doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice quality for style, though, or that you have to buy backpacks that are the equivalent of the stiletto heel - attractive but completely impractical. You can indulge your fashion preferences while still buying affordable, well-constructed backpacks and bags.

Here are some tips for finding the perfect backpack:

* Before shopping, decide which features are important and which you (or your child) can live without. Is a mesh water bottle holder a must-have? Can you live without a CD holder and earphone hole? Do you prefer sling backpacks or traditional backpacks?

* When shopping for a backpack, look at the compartments and think about how they will be used. Will multiple outside storage compartments make it easier to find items? Is a front pocket organizer the perfect place to keep often-used items?

* Always go for quality construction. If it's going to be worn as a backpack, look for padded shoulder straps - especially if heavy books will be lugged around. A reinforced handle is also an indicator of quality construction. Make sure that the backpack is made from superior materials and has reinforced double stitching and strong, non-rusting zippers.

* Buy backpacks that are guaranteed. There's nothing more frustrating than investing in a backpack, only to have it tear or fall apart in a month or two. Find a company or an online store offer a money-back guarantee for their products.

Backpacks, duffel bags, daypacks, and hiking packs are definitely practical, but they can also be cool accessories. Indulge your whimsy, but keep an eye on quality.