What to look for in a perfect summer purse
Accessories are one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to update your wardrobe from season to season. A new purse that's on trend can take an outfit from drab to fab in seconds and doesn't have to break the bank.
Homemakers.com: What colours dominate this season's best handbags?
Shannon Johnson: From beige and taupe tones to sandy and buff shades, neutral hues are the hottest colour story this season. Fashion's current craze for safari chic -- looks that layer neutral hues -- definitely helps put handbags in this colour palette on the summer's must-have list.
HM.com: What else is hot for summer 2009's handbags?
SJ: Not a colour trend per se, but certainly something we're seeing play out heavily in handbags for summer is faux snakeskin or, more specifically, python print. From black and white reptilian prints on leather satchels to brightly coloured pythons on patent totes, serpent-inspired prints add a sophisticated edge to handbags this summer.
HM.com: What handbag styles are popular?
SJ: Unlike last fall's preference for structured totes, slouchier styles are back on the scene this summer. From fold-over messenger styles to slouchy, oversized "bohos" and shoulder bags, big is still big for the most part when it comes to bags. Look for supple leather and suede styles with gathered and ruched details to deliver on the slouchy look.
HM.com: What fabrics and materials are popular?
SJ: Canvas fabric commonly designates a tote or satchel as a summer handbag. The great thing about canvas is it can be equally as sophisticated as its leather and suede counterparts (depending on style,) while offering a more lightweight option to pair with summer's light clothing.
For casual ensembles, graphic silk-screened patterns and prints on a cotton tote make for a fashionable summer catch-all. Perfect for running weekend errands or carrying on more casual summer getaways, printed cotton totes that hold everything from magazines and groceries to souvenirs and beach towels are equal parts eco and chic for summer.
HM.com: What kinds of patterns, prints and embellishments are hot?
SJ: Even the most sophisticated handbags require a hint of edge this summer. From studded satchels to fringed bohos, embellishment is key when it comes to covet-worthy handbags. To give your handbag its "it" factor this summer, look for tribal accents like beads and tassels as well as python, croc print, chain and zipper details.
5 dos and don'ts for handbag shopping
DO be realistic about your lifestyle requirements when shopping for a summer handbag. If your kids are what you spend most of your time carrying, an everyday bag with tiny handles won't do you any hands-free favours like a fashionable yet functional cross-the-body messenger style will.
Do look for a handbag that makes a statement. Even if you opt for a conservative hue like buff or white this summer, look for styles with edgy embellishments that still allow you to make a statement.
Do remember that versatility has its limits. Details like detachable straps that convert a more casual shoulder bag into a satchel are great for versatility. For more formal affairs however, be prepared with a clutch or evening bag that'll look more appropriately paired with your outfit than a handbag would.
Don't worry about whether your bag and shoes match. If you're dying for a rich hued handbag but fear you'll need new shoes to wear it with, think again. While matching your shoes and bag is perfectly acceptable, it's not always necessary. You can use other accessories besides shoes to complement your coloured handbag: hats, belts, bangles, necklaces, scarves, etc.
Do look for originality. Designer "it" bags serve as great sources of inspiration but don't feel trapped into buying the same bag everyone else has. Look for pieces that represent a trend while still keeping your look original.
Click to continue to see 10 summer bags we love...
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SJ: Unlike last fall's preference for structured totes, slouchier styles are back on the scene this summer. From fold-over messenger styles to slouchy, oversized "bohos" and shoulder bags, big is still big for the most part when it comes to bags. Look for supple leather and suede styles with gathered and ruched details to deliver on the slouchy look.
HM.com: What fabrics and materials are popular?
SJ: Canvas fabric commonly designates a tote or satchel as a summer handbag. The great thing about canvas is it can be equally as sophisticated as its leather and suede counterparts (depending on style,) while offering a more lightweight option to pair with summer's light clothing.
For casual ensembles, graphic silk-screened patterns and prints on a cotton tote make for a fashionable summer catch-all. Perfect for running weekend errands or carrying on more casual summer getaways, printed cotton totes that hold everything from magazines and groceries to souvenirs and beach towels are equal parts eco and chic for summer.
HM.com: What kinds of patterns, prints and embellishments are hot?
SJ: Even the most sophisticated handbags require a hint of edge this summer. From studded satchels to fringed bohos, embellishment is key when it comes to covet-worthy handbags. To give your handbag its "it" factor this summer, look for tribal accents like beads and tassels as well as python, croc print, chain and zipper details.
5 dos and don'ts for handbag shopping
DO be realistic about your lifestyle requirements when shopping for a summer handbag. If your kids are what you spend most of your time carrying, an everyday bag with tiny handles won't do you any hands-free favours like a fashionable yet functional cross-the-body messenger style will.
Do look for a handbag that makes a statement. Even if you opt for a conservative hue like buff or white this summer, look for styles with edgy embellishments that still allow you to make a statement.
Do remember that versatility has its limits. Details like detachable straps that convert a more casual shoulder bag into a satchel are great for versatility. For more formal affairs however, be prepared with a clutch or evening bag that'll look more appropriately paired with your outfit than a handbag would.
Don't worry about whether your bag and shoes match. If you're dying for a rich hued handbag but fear you'll need new shoes to wear it with, think again. While matching your shoes and bag is perfectly acceptable, it's not always necessary. You can use other accessories besides shoes to complement your coloured handbag: hats, belts, bangles, necklaces, scarves, etc.
Do look for originality. Designer "it" bags serve as great sources of inspiration but don't feel trapped into buying the same bag everyone else has. Look for pieces that represent a trend while still keeping your look original.
Click to continue to see 10 summer bags we love...
Page 1 of 2
