By Nicole Zakrzewski, Palm Harbor University High

Purses are a huge deal; they’re a lifeline. I may be carrying just my wallet and some lip balm, but I think I am purposely lopsided so that my purse on my shoulder can even me out. Finding a purse that suits me is an expedition on which I travel from store to store to find the crown jewel. Because a purse is so important, something akin to a best friend, I want it to last as long as possible, this object that gives me balance. Here are some strategies to lengthen the life of a handbag:

Add a scarf: Let Audrey Hepburn be your muse. Take a silk scarf and tie it in a bow around the handle. Your scarves can reflect your outfit, or you can use a universal scarf that goes with everything, such as a royal blue or red handkerchief.

Paint: If your leather purse has lost its luster, a coat of paint will revive it. Depending on the texture you want you can either use spray paint or acrylic — use spray paint for a cleaner look; for more texture apply acrylic paint using a sponge brush. Metallics work well; a dull handbag painted gold or silver will look like a brand new bag, in addition to keeping up with current trends.

Thank Coco: A bag with a failing strap can easily gain new life by replacing the strap with a thick chain, which can be purchased at hardware, home improvement or craft stores. Use jump rings and pliers to attach the chain to the handbag, and you’ll give your bag a look as classic as Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel herself.

Key chain: For a quick update, just clip on your key chain. Whether you have a surfboard charm or a Panera Rewards Card, it shows off your personality and flaunts what kind of car you drive.

Stud it: Add some hardware to your handbag. For leather handbags, buy a pack of studs (you can get them from eBay or Etsy, about a hundred for under $10) and punch them into your bag. Depending on how many studs you want it may take a while to install them, but all the hard work just makes you look that much edgier.

Brooch the subject: It’s hard to come by brooches nowadays; I would be surprised if any of you even own a brooch. Check your mother’s jewelry drawer, plus eBay, thrift stores and antique shops to find something unique. Simply pin the brooch onto your purse for an instant upgrade.