Handbag Trends of 2009

Handbag trends change several times during the year, and a roundup of all notable trends during the ‘00s seems a bit excessive. However, 2009 saw many distinct trends after a decade – and the 1990s – of mostly basic leather handbags. From colors to patterns to sizes, handbags generally saw more of a significant transformation this year than in years’ past. Here’s what we saw this past year.

• Reptile prints. We’ve seen these on other pieces of clothing before but not handbags. Although python skin was the most popular – and this was genuine python skin for designer brands – alligator and crocodile skin both made a distinct impression. While the natural color pattern and texture of the scales was kept intact, many of these reptile prints were often dyed a solid color.
• Hobo handbags. As a throwback to the slouch purse of the ‘80s, hobo handbags were – and still are for the moment – spacious. If you’ve seen someone appear to carry a shapeless art portfolio-style bag over their shoulder, the bag is a hobo. But even on a smaller scale, these spacious bags give celebrities more space for carrying their miniature pet, a la Paris Hilton, be it a Chihuahua or a pint-size pig.
• Studs. Whether you call it rocker chic or western, studs were seen on many leather handbags this year. Not to be excessive, the studs, typically rounded silver ones, appeared on solid color leater handbags.
• Patchwork styles. Combine five different materials on a bag, and you’ve got a patchwork handbag.
• Animal prints. Jungle animals have been the most popular, although cow print has been seen. Generally, these jungle animal prints have seen on a leather or patent leather handbag.
• Brightly colored leather. From hot pinks to royal purples to metallic shades, a solid leather handbag’s color shouldn’t be dull.
• Tattoo styles. Ed Hardy clothing may be seen at your local Salvation Army but, for a few months up to the summer, everyone wanted to have this brand’s tattoo style, complete with studs and rhinestones.
• Western style. From fringe to studs, having a leather handbag fit for a rodeo suddenly became popular.