Fall 2009 Handbags

Give your wardrobe a boost this fall with a new handbag. You'll find plenty of choices in the fall 2009 handbag collections. Among the best fall 2009 handbags are versatile handbags in neutral colors, exotic prints and stylish metallics.

Neutral shades. You will find plenty of neutral colors in the handbag department this fall. Neutral may sound boring, but it does not necessarily mean uninteresting or all the same. In fact, you may be surprised at the variety of shades you'll find, from cool taupes to rich cherry and mahogany hues and by the range of styles, from heavy-duty work-horse totes that can handle all your gear and to the most petite clutches. Three standouts in neutral shades are J. Crew's Campo bag (www.jcrew.com/Campo bag) in beechwood with a leather handle and gold-finish hardware, Talbots large suede hobo bag (www1.talbots.com/hobo bag) in camel, and Coach's op art brooke bag (www.coach.com/op art) in brass/khaki/saddle.

Exotic Prints. Jungle prints and other exotic looks are adding to the excitement in the fall 2009 handbag collections this fall, and they'll liven up your wardrobe as well. One favorite is Coach's new ocelot halfcalf large brooke bag (www.coach.com/ocelot). This practical bag is lined, with a zip-top, multi-function pockets and both a drop handle and a drop shoulder strap. Another choice is Talbot's new leopard tote (www1.talbots.com/leopard). The combination of leopard-skin patterned body and patent leather trim give this bag its own unique style. At the same time, it is a versatile, everyday choice that comes with both a handle and a removable shoulder strap. Finally, for something a little different, consider Michael Kors large, python-print leather shoulder bag (shop.nordstrom.com).

Metallics. Metallics add shine and sparkle to the fall 2009 handbag collections. While these bags are great for an evening out, you don't have to leave them at home just because the sun is shining. They make fun accessories day or night. A good example of an everyday bag with metallic style is Coach's new metallic xl brooke (www.coach.com/metallic brooke) in gunmetal/bronze. This spacious bag with chain-link handle and chain trim will look great whether you're wearing your favorite pair of jeans or heading out for a night on the town. Another alternative is J. Crew's lexi metallic clutch (www.jcrew.com/lexi metallic). This oversized clutch is available in metallic shades of spring daisy, light turquoise and metallic silver, and it comes with a removable, convertible strap so you can wear it as a messenger bag or over your shoulder, as well as using it as a clutch. Finally, why not consider Chloe's daytripper small leather shoulder bag ( www.saksfifthavenue.com) in metallic calfskin leather with contrast trim and tonal zippers.