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Wear to Where: Fall Handbag Trends

08.24.11

Fall handbag shopping is imminent. Where can you find this season’s must have arm candy; like roomy bucket bags, classic cross bodies, daytime clutches, school worthy messengers and bags with fringe benefits? In this third installment of my Fall Fashion trend series, we explore what bags you need on your shoulders, arms and in your hands; and where to buy them.

Bucket Bag - The very popular bucket bag is back for fall 2011 in neat and more tailored designs; I’m especially in love with the Brompton bag from J Crew for only $158. These workhorse satchels are made from soft leathers and supple materials that are closed with a drawstring pull or turn lock closure. They come with both shoulder straps and shorter purse handles. This casual bag silhouette is one of the best handbag trends for everyday or wear-to-work, for use in late summer and beyond. Sometimes called a drawstring hobo bag, it is “fit to be tied” for anyone wanting a versatile and hip daily carryall.

Cross-Body - 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 see variations like Roberto Cavalli’s plaited leather or Dior’s cross-body string 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. This season I’m craving the classics like the re-issue of Coach classic 1974 shoulder purse in orange. A true investment piece, it’s one of five archival designs offered as a special limited edition.

The Clutch - Take your cue from the streets and add a daytime, casual clutch to your fall look this season. Many designers have issued clutch bags which are more suitable for daytime wear - forget those tiny embellished evening clutches that are made to fit in a lipstick for a night out - think big and statement pieces for day-wear. Oversized is the safest bet this season and looks more casual than a smaller clutch bag - Michael Kors issued an embossed snakeskin in clutch form, I love that it’s faux and versatile.

The Messenger – School may be starting, but believe it or not, there is a way to make that first disheartening hike to class a little more enjoyable — a new messenger bag for all your school loot! Kick that nerdy backpack to the curb and opt for one of this season’s most stylish messengers to stow all your books, electronics, and other study must-haves on the go. Of course, messenger bags aren’t just for students, if you’re in the market for a new bag to tow your laptop or other work necessities, look no further! The messenger bag seems to be the perfect choice for everyone, regardless of their age. This is a youthful bag that suits dynamic women, with personality, who are able to wear everything extravagant in the most classy way ever. One of my favorites (and one I’ve already pre-ordered) is the Tory Burch 797 Messenger which combines’ messenger construction with textured leather for a chic on trend look.

Fringe - Celebrities are embracing a fringe handbags trend with gusto. And why not? It is bohemian, easy-to-wear, and evokes flattering glances from the passerby and cafe-dwellers. I’m especially drawn to buttery-soft suede in browns, beiges, and grays as they add textured softness to an outfit like fabulous collection JJ Winters put out for fall. Although I’m just as open to a weaved macramé concoction that mixes a metal chain strap with fringe embellishments. Whether you opt for a convenient messenger style cross-body, a roomy hobo, or a clutch, the fringe will add a playful element to your look.

For more pics and to find out the best places to find this season’s best arm candy, visit my site: http://lesliechristen.com/

Leslie Christen writes "Wear to Where" for pacific-creative.digital each week. She is the owner of Leslie Christen | LifeStyling a business that does personal shopping, fashion styling, closet edits and organization. For tips on What to Wear and Where to Buy view her website at www.LeslieChristen.com and contact her at Style@LeslieChristen.com.

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Surf Fast. Train Hard.

08.23.11

As the summer winds down, Quiksilver's Xplosive technology is ready for you as the water cools down. Their latest boardshort includes a compression garment that promotes blood flow back to the heart, keeps your muscles moving and prevents rashes. Once you hit the water, the shorts cling to your body and are great for keeping you out on your board. The Xplosive 20 inch board shorts are available online and currently retail for $199.

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