Handbag Fashion Trends Fall and Winter 2010

The phenomenon of the 'it' bag has dissolved, leaving behind a duo of more practical and long-lived options: the utterly classic, and the unique trend piece. To that end the right statement handbag will serve you for autumn / fall 2010 and well into 2011.

Fur handbags

Fur handbag at Michael Kors, A/W 2010

Fur. There's an aura of comforting warmth that emanates from any fur piece (be it real or faux) that adds to its eternal appeal. Taking shape over the past few years as fur clothing and more recently reaching our feet by way of fur boots, we can only accept that it's time the trend reached our bags as well. In 2010 and 2011 a handbag can be furry all over like a piliferous companion that hangs by your side; elegantly trimmed in velutinous fur luxury; or primitively bushling in bohemian nonchalance. Whatever your preferred take, one thing is certain: a fur bag makes a statement.

The frame bag

Frame bag at Dolce & Gabbana, A/W 2010

With all things studded, spiked, dark and tough fading from view like a distant train, the focus has turned to an antithetical trend piece: the ladylike, feminine frame bag. It's structured. It's clean. It's the manicured, click-heeled, apple pie perfection that we associate with the elegance of the 1950s and early 1960s. At it's most thematic it can be paired with a full skirt and some kitten heels, but that doesn't mean you can't carry it with a modern twist. Work it as a faithful vintage look, or as a surprise twist on an edgy outfit.

Satchels and buckle-front bags

Satchel bag at Proenza Schouler, A/W 2010

We'll use the term 'satchel' quite broadly here to describe any bag with a flap-top that fastens with a buckle or clasp. In 2010 and 2011 they can be everything from traditional schoolboy satchel styles, to '70s folk inspired, to modern clasp-fronted bags. The primary material here is most definitely leather - with a new found emphasis on styles that can be clutched as well as carried.

Cross-body bags

Cross-body bag at Gucci, A/W 2010

By no means new but certainly a continually evolving handbag trend, the cross-body bag has a youthful appeal. While a long chain strap is common and a consistently chic take, you can also look variations like Roberto Cavalli's plaited leather or Dior's cross-body strings of pearls. There's always a delicacy to the small cross-body bag that stems from the lack of clutter it can withstand. Perfect for nights out and days around and about - where not much more than a credit card and lipstick are the required cargo.

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