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Q&A: Must-Have Handbags
By Erin Donnelly
Q: I’m planning a big shopping trip to update my wardrobe for spring, and I’d like to add one or two new handbags to my collection. What’s trendy right now?A: Kudos to you for making warm season style a priority! As for this season’s most-desired handbags, it’s all about bright colors, glossy patent leather, color-blocking, and cool neutral bags. Whether you splurge on a fancy designer label—you know you want to—or opt for a more affordable off-the-rack alternative, these hot handbags will make for some serious arm candy.
Marc Jacobs Quilted Mary (shown): Marc Jacobs has a way with quilted leather, and this purse’s juicy 
papaya hue is too fun to pass up. Gold details and a chain strap up the glamour factor.
papaya hue is too fun to pass up. Gold details and a chain strap up the glamour factor.Lanvin Happy Bag (http://www NULL.barneys NULL.com/) (shown): Is happiness a fabulous designer handbag? I know this cheery canary yellow model certainly puts me in a better mood. Purists can get the bag in white.
Coach Legacy Spectator Gigi Tote (http://www NULL.dillards NULL.com/) (shown): If candy-colored handbags, won’t fly at the office, try this polished tote. The off-white hue with brown trim is a lighter alternative to heavy dark brown and black, and embodies a bit of this season’s popular safari trend. This is a classic that you’ll wear for years to come—provided you can keep it scuff-free!Banana Republic Sutton Large Straw Shoulder Bag (http://www NULL.bananarepublic NULL.com/browse/product NULL.do?cid=35642&pid=546490&scid=546490012): Let your hair down with this relaxed-meets-refined straw tote—perfect for beach getaways and weekend errands.
Maxx New York Fenway Patent Bowler (http://shop NULL.nordstrom NULL.com/): Think pink! This rosy patent bag with funky zebra-print lining is a playful (and budget-friendly) choice. The bag also comes in bright yellow or grass green.Style&co. Patent Gloss Tote (http://www1 NULL.macys NULL.com/catalog/product/index NULL.ognc?ID=284983&CategoryID=27075) (shown): Available in black, cobalt, Kelly green, and hot pink, this slick shopper delivers an exuberant jolt of color. Great for the weekends.
Stella McCartney Color Block Clutch (http://www NULL.net-a-porter NULL.com/product/29136): This silk clutch pairs beige, green and black for a fashion-forward look that works for day or night.
Victoria’s Secret Patent Clutch (http://www2 NULL.victoriassecret NULL.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay NULL.jsp&event=display&prnbr=8J-223927&page=1&cgname=OSCLOJWLZZZ&rfnbr=3295): Whether you go citrus-y in orange or yellow or mod in black or white, this shiny patent clutch and its Lucite closure will add a hip edge to your outfit.
Have a question? Email Erin here.
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