If you're anything like us, your handbag takes a daily beating. Filled to the brim with all the essentials, this trusty item is a constant companion. It accompanies us from the office to the subway to the airport. It holds our books, our makeup, our notes and all the ephemera of daily life. More than any other accessory, your purse (and its varied contents) speak to who you are and where you have been.

Which is why it's so important to have a truly stellar handbag.

Every year, the genius fashion minds at InStyle celebrate our favorite accessory with the InStyle Independent Handbag Awards. Prizes are awarded to the Audience Fan Favorite, the Best Student Made Handbag, Best Green Handbag, and even Most Socially responsible Handbag. This year, the event is being sponsored by JP Selects, EcoSalon, Broke Girl's Guide, and—we're excited to announce—Milkshake!

Want to win a trip to New York City to attend the Sixth Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards? JP Selects is giving away one ticket, complete with a $500 travel voucher. (And JP Selects' CEO Paolo will be there presenting the award for the best socially responsible handbag at the event!) The lucky winner will get to check out up-and-coming designers from around the globe at one of the most exciting fashion events of the year.

And even better: If you get two friends to sign up, you are automatically entered to win an extra prize—one of the winning handbags! Maybe it's time to update your arm candy…

For more details, check out the JP Selects Facebook page. The contest ends Friday, June 1 at midnight.