March brings Milan, London and New York Fashion Weeks where it is in with the Classics and out with the Gimmicks. Channel boss Carl Lagerfeld has described the recession induced era as "new modest". The Handbag look is timeless elegance and tasteful styling. Shoulder bags can be big and roomy or small and compact. Tote bags are sophisticated with stylish detailing. Animal prints still very popular, especially crocodile, pony skin and snakeskin. Embellishments should be tasteful and practical. Fringes are a key look. Handbag colours for Summer are ivory, citrus yellow, coral orange and fuschia pink. Fashion accessory colours for winter are Raspberry, purple, ochre, brown. black and grey. For autumn/winter tweeds and tartans and bows are all fashionable.
Individual style is making a come back with vintage and "not on the High Street" handbags more popular than ever. Small designers, like Lulu Australia and Fabio Dericci, that offer unusual or unique bags at very affordable prices are flourishing. Icons to watch are Cheryl Cole, Lady Gaga, Carla Bruni Sarkozy and Michelle Obama. Classically pretty is a phrase getting a lot of use, practical handbags which look high fashion and yet still highly decorative.
