Normally, once the New York Times reports it, a trend is officially Over, at least for the true style piranhas who live and die for the next “It” item.  But we’ve always maintained that certain trends will have staying power because they actually work.  The Chanel Vinyl Shopper is one of those trends. 

While we know that it’s the shiny look that makes it stand out (and yes, it does look like a trash bag)—it’s the gi-NORmous size of the bag that we love.  It’s almost infinitely expandable! And what could be better, especially this time of year, than a bag that can fit everything you need from sunup to sundown? 

For travel it’s a natural; not only can it become an airline carry-on, but it can also fit an extra sweater, a pair of comfortable shoes, an umbrella, and all the maps anyone would need to tour a city.  But even for every day here in Tampa, many of us are becoming addicted to our Big Bags that can take us through a week’s worth of errands and meetings.  It can be a diaper bag, a book bag, a briefcase, a shopping bag, or a even a small suitcase, for that matter. 

Of course, even if you could, or worse, would pay a thousand dollars for a couple of yards of vinyl, you aren’t likely to be able to get the Chanel version anytime soon.  (It’s completely sold out, Darlings.)  For a knockoff version, try this one, or if you want something really huge (a whopping 27 inches wide) there’s always Anna Corinna’s Knotty Nellie. 

But since most of us don’t need—or want—something that gigantic, we’ve found plenty of other not-quite-as-big options in every price range.  Either way, whether you want to put one on your Christmas Wish List or pick one up now to get you through the holiday season, you’ll love being able to fit so much stuff into your bag. 

If status bags are your thing, think how lovely it would be to unwrap this Gucci Tote on Christmas morning!  Or maybe you’d prefer the Marc Jacobs Hudson that Nicki Hilton loves so much. 

In the mid-priced range,  we adore Cole Haan’s Village Tote, or the smaller Bucket Tote.  (Talbot’s has a nicely priced version of the bucket tote as well, although at 11 inches wide, it’s not technically what we’d call a Big Bag).

Need to spend less?  Nine West’s roomy Wyoming Tote is under $100, and this leather tote on overstock.com looks like a great value for the money. 

But our favorite find has to be this cute-cute-cute (but still BIG—16 X 10 inches!) bag from Wal-Mart for a measly $19.88.  We just love the designery style and the chain strap handle!  Of course, it’s not real leather, but then, neither is the $1000 Chanel bag. 

See how easy it is to be chic?