The hottest handbags for fall

Bobbie Thomas TODAY Style Editor

From refined and defined to loud and stand-out-from-the-crowd, this season, there’s a must-have handbag for every woman! Luxe details, splashes of color and rich fabrics are just a few of the elements that make this roundup of clutches, carryalls, satchels, shoulder bags and totes so remarkable. So get ready to write your “lust” list, ladies, as Bobbie Thomas, Today Style editor and author of the Buzz column for “In Touch Weekly,” talks about the top trends in handbags this season.

Polished
Structured satchels are the perfect accent to fall’s sophisticated fashions. But just because they’re grown-up doesn’t mean they’re predictable. From crisp clutches and small, prim purses to sleek oversized silhouettes, there are all sorts of styles to compliment this season’s buttoned-up clothing. Sharp, clean lines and ladylike top-handles are literally the “frame” of reference to use when choosing a handbag to top off your polished look. And the best part about this trend? These proper pieces are true classics and can be carried over for many seasons to come!

What you saw on TODAY:
Nylon Bauletto bags: $875-3,300; Tods.com
Monogram Mirage Griet bag: $3,450; LouisVuitton.com
Versace Hit bag $2330; Eluxury.com
Room service top handle: $240; MaxxNewYork.com
Nicole Lee nylon tote $89.95; (877) 642-6531
Abaete for Payless navy Andie tote $28; Payless.com
Sopresa! Croc-embossed leather bag: $128; Bloomingdales.com
Navy satin clutch: $49; NineWest.com

burberry.com

Glam
Gear up for some glitz this season — designers are doing away with minimalism and offering the ultimate in over-the-top accessories! Chain detailing, metal accents, stones, studs and gems are just a few of the elements found on our favorite embellished bags. While many boast glossy or metallic fabrics, they all allude to a rock ’n’ roll edge. And though there are glam bags in all shapes and sizes, the evening bag is back in a big way. Crystal-encrusted cases, bejeweled boxes, itsy-bitsy beaded bags and intricate miniatures are making a big statement in a small package.

What you saw on TODAY:
Prada Vernice Degrade bags: $2,195-$2,425: NeimanMarcus.com
Knight bag: $2,995; Burberry.com
Sasha stud bag and crystal clutches: $69-$200; (212) 268-4000
Sabina silver leather clutch: $99.99; Anniesez.com
Nine West pyramid stud clutch: $120; NineWest.com
Bead fringe and gem evening bags: $32-$48; Lulu-Nyc.com

purseboutique.com

Bold
Add an electric accessory to your outfit with a bright bag! It’s time to expand your idea of fall hues from crisp oranges, browns and greens. Instead, grab a bag in a traditionally winter jewel tone or customarily spring neon shade. These colors are sweeping through clothing stores this fall, but if you’re afraid to wear a hot hue all over, you can at least accessorize with one. We’re betting you’ll want to wear your colorful companion as much as possible, so look for bags with double-duty options. A leather fold-over ‘tote-to-clutch’ will work for both day and night, while adjustable chain handles will go long or short.

What you saw on TODAY:
Erromete red patent bag: $40; AldoShoes.com
Sonata satchel: $135; MaxxNewYork.com
Tri-colored clutch: $42-$52; AmiciAccessories.com
Teal raw edges clutch by Melie Bianco: $54.95; PurseBoutique.com
Coco’s Crocos bags: $2,250-$2,350; Chanel, (800)-550-0005

purseboutique.com

Textured
Designers indulged in everything from pheasant feathers to exotic skins in order to make notice-me-now handbags this season. While these lush accents are fanciful and fun, remember: A little goes a long way. Plenty of fluffy frocks recently walked down the runway (and the red carpet — think Vanessa Williams in Kevin Hall at the Emmys), but for those who prefer a more understated appearance, it’s much easier to transfer this trend into your look with a pouchette! And with an abundance of luxe faux options, even animal-friendly fashionistas may opt for a little fuzz. Whichever texture you choose, the key with this trend is to treat yourself to a bag that not only looks great, but feels great, too.

What you saw on TODAY:
Pach bucket in black: $995; Zappos.com
Zara black faux pony-hair bag: $229: Zara.com
CEN faux fur and feather evening bags: $34-$135; (212) 268-4000
Colorful faux skin clutch: $45; ChineseLaundry.com
Beige crisscross faux python clutch: $34.95; PurseBoutique.com
Arden B purple faux skin clutch: $78; (877) 274-6722
Classic brand shearling wristlet: $88; UggAustralia.com

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