When we want to drool over the most lust-worthy handbags, we turn to Bag Snob. The site began in 2005 after the husband of Kelly Cook (right) husband told her she needed to record the phone convos she had with best friend Tina Craig (left). "Other moms talked about poopie diapers and bedtime routine," Kelly recalls. "We talked about shopping and bags!" So the two new moms, one based in Boston, the other in Dallas, filled their days blogging about purses as a way to keep in touch.

Want to know what's in and what's out in the handbag world? The stylish duo offers honest, playful reviews to help readers make informed shopping decisions. Not that their unbiased opinions are necessarily uniform. "I have very eclectic tastes," Tina says. "I like very structured dresses from RM Roland Mouret and Alexander McQueen but I also love slouchy urban chic pieces from Alexander Wang." However, Kelly is more sporty and casual. "I was a tomboy and still have a hint of that. Even in a dress I am not overly flouncy and frou-frou."

Recognizing that the price range of many of the bags on their site is out of reach for most women, Tina and Kelly have created a Frugal Snob section with more affordable options. Virulently anti-fake, they recommend shopping from designers' capsule collections for retailers like Target or Kohl's, and diligently shopping the sales. "Why go plastic or knockoff if you can get the real deal?" says Kelly.  

The Bag Snobs say that if you do splurge, it's important to take extra-good care of your purchases. Keep reading for their tips and more. They'll show you how to build the ultimate handbag collection!

How do you care for your handbags?
Tina: I store all of my bags in their dust bags in individual bins with a Polaroid of the bag taped to the front of the bin. I am currently building a dedicated bag closet with retro fitted glass encased shelves for each of my 300+ bags!

Kelly: Do not stack them on top of each other and always stuff them with tissue to keep the shape and to absorb any moisture.  When buying the bag new, ask the sale associate to spray it with a protection spray if appropriate (some leathers should not be treated).  And no matter what, never put your bags on the floor!

What's your favorite bag of all time?
Tina: I just got my dream bag, a fuchsia ostrich Birkin. 

Kelly: Right now I am so in love with my new Bottega Veneta Pleated Cervo satchel in creamy caramel. It has the signature woven leather peaking out from behind the gathered pockets on both sides.  It is just the cutest thing I've ever seen!

If a person can only invest in one bag per year, what would you recommend they buy?
Tina: To develop a good bag wardrobe you need at least one bag in each of the following categories:

1. Tote: Totes are so versatile, for work or play.

2.  A timelessly chic bag you can use for a life time. 

3. Exotic, or embossed if you can not afford the real thing.

Kelly: Try to shop with your brain instead of with your heart.  Emotional buys usually end up in the back of the closet. Think of it like you're looking for a husband rather than a fling and apply the same principles. Stick to classic designs (nothing too embellished) and get a shape that is versatile and functional for her lifestyle (tote, hobo or satchel).  

What trends in handbags are we going to see this fall?
Tina: A lot of embellished bags, the '80s are back in full swing in all of its rock-and-roll studded glory! 

Kelly: Decadence is back, baby!  Get ready for glamour and extravagance: stones, sequins, more studs, intricate pleated details.

Are there any rules for wearing handbags with different outfits?
Tina: The only rule is feeling confident and fabulous no matter what you carry. 

Kelly: As long as your bag is not obstructing your outfit, there are no rules.  Everything goes as long as you are happy and love what you're wearing.

Any tips on telling if a bag is a fake or truly vintage? What should you look out for when scanning bags on eBay or a vintage shop?
Tina:  I always look at the stitching of bags sold over the internet. It's a tell-tale sign when the stitching is crooked or puckering.  The logo placement can also give it away. A lot of fakes have the logos off center or crooked. 

Kelly: It is hard to tell with a picture, especially on eBay.  There are sites like Fashionphile and Yoogi's Closet that are well-respected and reputable and sell authentic second-hand bags.

How can you tell if a bag is going to be a good investment versus a passing fad?
Tina: I judge a bag by its design, workmanship and quality of material. Simple design and clean lines are a good indication it will last beyond the season.  If something looks too trendy, it most likely is. 

Kelly: Think about how many outfits in your closet this bag will go with, the higher the number, the better the chance this bag will survive past a few seasons.