The dominating handbag trends for summer are rocker chic, prints and patterns and, surprisingly, fringe is still holding strong! Rocker chic accessories allow you to channel your inner rebel with studs, grommets, and hardware on top of hardware. It’s the type of accessory that adds edge to your simple black dress or jeans and a tee. Rocker chic handbags come in many colors and styles – envelope clutch, cross body, satchel, hobo – so you can choose between a subtle touch of rocker or command more attention with brighter colors. Rebecca Minkoff has several studded styles in her spring 2009 collection, inspired by the rock and roll world. Below are a few of my favorites available at RebeccaMinkoff.com.



C Ya Later in Lemon, $550; Crush in Papaya, $295; and Stud Devote in Almond, $695
BE&D also incorporates a rocker details in its current and fall collection. It goes to show that you can never have too many studs! The handbags pictured below are available at BEandD.com



Greta Clutch in Turquoise, $695; Garbo Baguette in Gunmetal, $695; Garbo Shoulder Portfolio in Cream, $995

Handbags with prints and patterns is my favorite trend of the season. I like to have fun with my bags. I am attracted to odd color combinations and bold colors because it shows my free-spirited personality. Handbags don’t always have to be a practical purchase. If you feel good each time you wear it, even if you don’t get the chance to wear it as often, it is still worth the money! Shopbop.com has a great selection of print and pattern handbags to choose from, a few of which are pictured above. From top to bottom: See by Chloe Les Jardins Shopper, $160; L.A.M.B. Signature Williamsfield Tote, $295; Rebecca Minkoff Tie Dye Morning After Mini Tote, $450; and Lauren Merkin Louise Leopard Clutch, $180.



Tory Burch Ambroise Hobo, $495; Tory Burch Thaile Tote, $385; Rafe for Tibi Amy Large Tote, $375
Fringe accessories have been on the scene since last year. Fringe is slightly whimsical yet still trendy. I thought it would be short-lived but it’s here another season which shows its staying power. I’ll be the first to admit that I am reluctant to invest in a fringe handbag, but I enjoy seeing how far designers will go to add a little fringe into the mix. Susan Farber has a beautifully designed fringe collection. If I were to buy into the fringe trend, it would be from Susan Farber Collections.



Susan Farber Collections Sterling Pomegranate, $322; Baja Lilac, $580; Belize Aqua Tye Dye, $598

July 9th, 2009 at 9:13 am
love it staci!
February 6th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Absolutely a great post, couldn’t have said it better myself.
February 6th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Fantastic post, well written and I 100% agree.