1 of 18

Write now Article Tools

Handbags have become little art pieces all in their own rite. They're yummy, soft leathered, lovable, huggable little treasures that hang on my shoulder or snuggle under my arm wherever I go.

I'm a registered bag-aholic, or "bag lady," as my husband calls me! You can never have enough handbags or shoes, I say! I always feel it's necessary to add just one more to my outrageous collection; after all, one never knows when I might just need that fuchsia-colored, patent leather number with the chains and dangling fringe! It's so cute, how can we possibly resist?

In the old days, most American women bought 3 kinds of handbags; one black, one navy blue, and one brownish-heavy leather, all-purpose shoulder bag. In addition, one might have bought a white or straw bag of some kind for summer. Oh, and yes, maybe, if you were going to a formal or semi-formal event, a small, beaded, peau-de-soie bag would be purchased to match or to coordinate with the gown.

Those days are certainly long dead and gone! Bags are all the rage now and are considered a necessary part of a well put-together woman's accessory collection. They are in a league all their own, and they are a multi-billion dollar business worldwide. From a teeny, tiny little Channel bag that retails for $500 and barely holds a lipstick, to the huge, patent leather, glitzy tote bags popular this season, bags are the "it" thing to buy.

So what's out there in the handbag world these days? What's new, what's in, what's out, who's styles are hot and which designer is soooooo out? Let's take a look.

What's hot in Paris?

In Paris, one trendy, popular line of bags, "La Bagagerie," offers the same fabric and color in every piece from the briefcase to the wristlet, to large and small satchel-styled bags. You can choose to match your wristlet to your briefcase, or your satchel to your wallet, whatever works best in your lifestyle. I bought a large satchel, wristlet and makeup bag, all in the same cool, sparkly fabric. When I got home, I was despondent that I hadn't bought the briefcase, as well.

Also, a French Woman would never leave her home without her scarf or pashmina. When the weather fools you, and your pashmina is hanging loosely around your neck, tie it to your purse for a casual look and a practical application. I am always amazed how Parisian women manage to look so fashionable, one important accessory that they are never without is a long, raw silk or light wool scarf. They throw them casually over a coat collar and,

• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Guide to handbags?
We want to hear your view. Write now!