April 4

Fashion

Spring Handbag Report
By Cindy Kitagawa

I am a self-confessed handbag junkie. To me the impeccable quality and craftsmanship of a fine handbag is pure artistry. So if you're like me, then you're looking for the perfect handbag this season and there seems to be a little something for everyone. Designers have not held back in making the new must have bags for Spring vibrant, and full of new twists. Nothing is a faux pas this season as designers have produced a plethora of shapes, sizes, and textures to choose from. Candy colors, exotic skins, patent leathers and 80's flashbacks are all the rage from totes, to over size clutches. Bright colors are big in clothes and in handbags. Prada has really done some amazing work this season and has become one of my absolute favorites. Their eye-popping turquoise, coral and aquamarine Cervo handbags and Tessuto weave totes are to die for. Even Chloe (another personal favorite) jumped in on the color act. Most known for their simple and classic designs, Chloe's newest hit is their Bay Bag in a bright berry purple. While still classic looking, the amazing color has put them once again in the spotlight. Carrying some bright colored arm candy is a great and easy way to add some pop to a drab wardrobe.

Fendi also did their thing with color by bringing back their popular line of baguettes (made famous in the 90's by one Sarah Jessica Parker on SATC). This iconic bag is available for a limited time in a slew of bright pantone colors. Speaking of limited editions, Gucci, Longchamp, and Dolce & Gabbana have all designed bags this season in limited editions. Word on the street is that the "It" bag is becoming extinct. (I mean who wants to carry an "It" bag that everyone else is carrying)

Prints, patterns, and florals have also made an interesting return to handbags this Spring. Both Prada and Jimmy Choo took their printed handbags to the extreme. While Prada went with a fairy print (think child-like fairy drawings), Jimmy Choo went with faces on their totes, as well as on their interesting Bakelite framed clutches. I must say the deerskin Prada Fairy Bag is absolutely amazing and well worth its very expensive price tag. (did I mention already that I love Prada?)

Don't let go of those metallics just yet as they are still holding on strong this season. Gucci's new line of Hysteria handbags, which also come in a hobo shape, comes in bright colors and gorgeous metallics as well. Other well known lines which are slightly more wallet friendly, Kooba, Botkier, and Gustto do some great metallics in totes, clutches and hobo versions.

Who doesn't love linen? Linen bags and totes are also a great buy for Spring and Summer. Durable and casual, they never seem to go out of style. Foley & Corinna are making great linen totes right now, in mini and maxi sizes. I can personally attest to how great and sturdy their line of linen bags are.

If you're not someone who's interested in spending a month's mortgage for a handbag, have no fear. Trends trickle down and there are plenty of other designers and places to find a great bag. Nine West does some really great stuff now other then shoes. They have some amazing handbags and clutches in bright colors and metallics for under $100 dollars. Also, don't think for a second that Forever 21 is just for your teenage neighbor. They do really great look a-like handbags in just about every design and color, and let me tell you the price is always right.

With so many options whatever you decide to do this Spring you really can't go wrong. So get out there and find the one that's right for you. There is nothing better then getting a great new handbag. I know I'll be getting one…. or three … or four.