On Shoulders, Belts, in Hands or on the Back - The bag
A recent American study shown what had had long been suspected but nobody dared to say: a real woman carries at least 70 objects in her bag.
It comes as no surprise that for women bags are the most important and most sought-after accessories. Most women feel naked if they cannot carry a bag. And now that dresses are getting smaller and thinner, bags can be a woman’s way to stand out from the crowd. (A study shows that twice as many bags were sold in 2006 as dresses.)
Bags are just as important in 2008, only the colours and the materials went through changes. Their finishing of bags became more elaborate and trendy colours, such as yellow, blue and cream, appeared. The black and white combination is still very fashionable, together with silvery grey and various metallic colours.
This year the emphasis is on the feminine and this shows in patterns used on accessories, for instance multicolour flowers on bags or stylised flowers on fabrics.
Another feature of current trends in bag design is the imaginative combination of materials. Designers have chosen distinguishing materials for their bags. As for decorations, metals are frequently combined with wood, and beads with glass. Many bags look almost futuristic, partly resulting from the popularity of silver-dyed leather, metal frames and sheets, studs and zippers.
Also popular are ethno or baroque style bags, batik fabrics and gradient dye leather, as well as creased, ribbed and draped fabrics.
Golden clips, wooden handles and many other unusual locks have appeared on bags in addition to the usual buckles and zips.
Some evergreen pieces that have been around for years, oversized bags that harmonise with large sunglasses, can still be used this year but beware! They only really suit tall women. There are many new shapes, such as the baguette bag, which is an elongated and chunky version of the envelope bag.
For special occasions, the designers still recommend handheld envelope bags, made unique with the help of interesting buckles, clamps and stitching – some of them really look like true works of art.
Clasp bags clearly bring back the 1950s, similarly to softly ribbed or quilted pastel colour bags. Bags with chain straps are no longer only for those who are wearing a Chanel costume, a combination that was almost Chanel’s trademark in the past.
Tips for Wearing bags
If you wear shoulder bags, choose models that come with wide straps because if the straps are narrow and the bag is heavy, they can cut into your skin.
If you use small handbags, make sure they are not stuffed full because they will look awkward then.
Next to trendy bags, trendy purses are increasingly popular. Choose one that matches your bag.
Your bag should always go with your shoes. Never wear light-coloured shoes with a dark bag or the other way round!
Petite women should not wear XXL size bags because they will appear even shorter than they are.
