What’s in the Bag? Women’s Handbag Trends in 2006

With the popularity of classic, luxury, and Victorian-inspired clothing lines this year, the trends for designer handbags includes a fresh assortment of clutches, oversized bags, and bamboo-handled purses. The Hobo-style bag is still in season, as well as a line of slouch bags that are great for weekends and casual events. Here’s a top ten list of must-have handbags for 2006!

1. Dooney & Bourke Handbags
These cute designer bags come in a variety of pastel colors, and feature trimmed flaps and metal buttons for a school-yard look

2. Bulga
These slouch bags are must-haves as a carry-all for weekend getaways!

3. Kate Spade
Chic and classic, this tote is a must-have for semi-formal outfits with smooth lines and stitching .

4. Gaucho saddle bag
Casual and trendy, these bags have slouch but style. Choose denim or leather in bold colors.

5. Oversized Leather Bags
Any oversized leather bags that aren’t too slouchy, these bags are a great addition with oversized buckles, patent leather trim, and chain handles.

6. Ruffled Leather
A variety of designers are catching on to this cowboy-inspired look, with ruffles adorning all-leather styles. Choose camel, black, or tan colors to compliment any outfit.

7. Braids
Chunky braid weaves and handles are a signature look of top designer bags this season; choose white, pink, and lighter pastel colors for a fashionable addition to your look.

8. Coach
Coach bags are ALWAYS in season, and this year featuers basket-weave material, slouchy styles, and classic Coach-mongrammed styles.

9. Hobo
This bag is still in season in fresh, bold colors. Choose bold blues, reds, and greens to stand out from the crowd, and experiment with soft leather, metallic, and miniature styles.

10. Bamboo handles
Just in time for summer, these boxy and compartmentalized bags with bamoboo handles show off some seasonal flair. Choose from printed and solid styles in different fabrics.