Top Three Handbag Trends For Fall & Winter 2008

Step 1: Sophistication

Clothes are closer to the body this fall and winter, so your bags should be, too. Put the loosey-goosey hobos away for now, and look for long, lean totes and structured satchels. They're perfect for work - they can even hold your laptop - and will make you look sophisticated, chic, and ready for anything.

Step 2: Magenta

If you're looking for one new color to add to your wardrobe this fall and winter, go for magenta. It's fun, it's bold, it's in-your-face, and a bag is an easy way to wear it. It may not be a great choice as a work bag - unless you work in a creative field - but that's all the more reason to cut loose and have a little fun with your evening bags! If a full-on magenta bag still feels like it's too much for you, look for magenta detailing or stitching to stay on trend.

Step 3: Exotic Skins

Python. Crocodile. Alligator. They're expensive, they're gorgeous, and sometimes, you just have to splurge. The real thing will cost you thousands of dollars, but there are some great faux exotics out there, so start looking. As long as you stick with classic shapes and styles, you should be able to wear your exotic skin bags for a long, long time, so this is a look you can rock for years.