Get Next Spring's It Bag Now

Remember in the '90s, when everyone and their mother sported Prada's nylon backpack (or a knockoff)? Well, the backpack is making a comeback for spring, but in a much more luxurious fabric than microfiber.

Judging from the Milan catwalks, it seems Gucci's It bag for next season will be either the snakeskin backpack at left or a similar version the fashion house showed in turquoise. The bag transforms into a carryall and undoubtedly comes with a ridiculously high price tag. Not to worry—I've scoured the Web to find more affordable versions.

I especially love Forzieri's suede and leather splurge in the gallery below (it also comes in brown). Like the Gucci backpacks, you can wear it as a chic downtown purse and then throw it over both shoulders when it gets too heavy. Who said fashion always has to be painful?