(ARA) - Forget those strappy sandals, beaded mules and embroidered boots from last year. It’s all about the handbag in 2004.
“The handbag is a more visible, eye-catching accessory,” says Charlie Lapson, a respected designer to Hollywood's stars and style correspondent for ShopNBC, the upscale TV and Internet retailer. “A stunning handbag is something you notice right away when you walk up to someone.”
Lapson says that because of TV shows like “Sex and the City” and “Friends,” women have felt compelled to invest money in a lot of expensive shoes. “People are ready for a change,” says Lapson, who predicts that the handbag, which is more versatile and affordable, will be the biggest trend accessory this year.
In this new era, women will no longer have just one winter bag and one summer bag, but a whole wardrobe of handbags to enhance different outfits. But there’s no need to break the bank to look good.
“You don’t need to spend $1,000 or more for one bag,” says Lapson, who emphasizes that there are well-made, beautifully designed handbags available at reasonable prices. Unique Lapson-designed bags, available on ShopNBC, combine fashion with affordability. They are created from high quality, imported leather and have lots of beautiful accents.
Lapson says that color makes a bold statement this year. “Strong colors like hot pink, fuchsia and orange are very popular,” he adds. Decoration is also a trend: bags will be sporting metal clasps, rope chains, buckles, studs and silver trim.
And let’s not forget about texture. We will be seeing a lot of bags made from embossed leather, alligator or crocodile looks, and even a “cobra skin” effect. Fabrics won’t be plain either: there will be lots of different treatments including washes and dyed effects.
As far as shapes go, there are a lot to choose from. “I like to play with various silhouettes,” explains Lapson, who says that some women prefer large bags that can take them through a long day, and others want tiny, sexy bags. Some of the most popular shapes for this spring include the long and narrow East/West bag, the slouchy Hobo bag, the oblong Roll bag, the “doctor’s” bag, and the classic small clutch.
What’s the choice of the style setters in Hollywood right now: Lapson says members of the cast of “Friends” love the brightly colored Hobo bag made from soft, buttery suede, and a certain “Days of Our Lives” star has been spotted with a hot pink croco embossed leather bag.
As you search for your new spring bag, keep Lapson’s advice in mind: “Your handbag is an extension of who you are.”
Check ShopNBC (www.shopnbc.com) for an extensive selection of handbags (including those designed by Charlie Lapson) and accessories and a whole range of clothing, jewelry and housewares.
Courtesy of ARA Content
