Women's handbags 'worth more than their partners'

New research has discovered that women put more value upon their beloved handbag collection than men may previously have thought.

In fact, the study - carried out by online handbag store Oushka.com - found that eight per cent of the women surveyed said their bag was more valuable than their partner.

Another 26 per cent said they place more value on their arm candy than they do on their family car.

Some 58 per cent admitted to owning over 20 handbags, while 29 per cent said they owned between ten and 20.

Interestingly, the average estimated price for the womens' total collections was £2,500, which could mean we have more value in our wardrobes than we may think.

Psychologist Efua O'Brien said: "As the research proves that the majority of us use our handbags to carry many of our precious possessions, it would make sense that women in the UK would place such value on them.

"Because of the service they provide, we psychologically see them as much more than material items - they are something to be treasured."

Oushka.com managing director Sally Bradford added that she was "astounded" at how passionate women admitted to being about their bags.

In related news, actress Mischa Barton recently launched her own range of handbags, said to be inspired by her travels around the world.