Four Purse Trends for Spring 2012

Just like a woman can never own enough shoes, she can also never own enough handbags. Today we're talking about hot handbag trends for spring 2012.

Like shoes and accessories, handbags, purses and clutches should be paired appropriately with an outfit. For example, a zebra print handbag looks best against a toned down outfit and may clash with other animal prints or colors you're wearing. Similarly, an elegant satin clutch doesn't pair well with a hobo-chic ensemble donned while errand-running. Below are four handbag trends for 2012.

Color Blocked Satchels

For those unaware, a satchel is a handbag that's carried on the shoulder. It typically has a flap, sometimes secured with a clasp, other times with a buckle. The satchel silhouette is pretty classic in terms of purses and handbags, which makes a color blocked satchel twenty times more alluring. It's the juxtaposition of archetypal form with flashy, unexpected color combinations that makes this handbag trend a must-follow for spring 2012.

Western Cross Body Bags

Last year's Western trend continues thriving in the fashion world. Throughout spring 2012, you'll continue to find a plethora of cowboy-chic apparel and accessories, including always smart cross body bag. From leather bags with funky inlay designs to colorful, intricate beading to the stud-adorned variety, you shouldn't have a problem finding something that fits seamlessly into your current wardrobe. FYI: Cross Body bags get their name because of their long straps, which cross over the chest and allow the bag to hang around your waist or hips.

Pastel Clutches

The feminine among us shall now rejoice, for pastels and lace are a mega "do" for spring 2012. The more ice cream and Easter-inspired the hue, the better. Think sherbet orange, minty green, cool gray, bubblegum pink and soft, butter yellows. Don't be afraid to layer the pastels, either. Designers didn't shy away from pairing and overlapping pastels with other pastels on the spring 2012 runway.

Printed Bags

Some seasons, prints just don't seem to pair well with on-trend apparel. The clean palette of spring 2012, on the other hand, lends itself very well to big, boisterous, look-at-me-prints adorning handbags, clutches, wristlets and coin purses. For example, the Dolce & Gabbana's spring 2012 collection showcased bags with unexpected prints, including bags with onions and other foods. Fendi's spring 2012 collection also showcased modern, abstract prints that popped against clean ensembles. From floral to polka dot to abstract and beyond, printed bags will spice up any outfit.