It may be cold now, but it is never too early to start preparing for the next season in fashion. The early Spring/Summer 2012 fashion shows have returned mixed views on where next year will take us in terms of clothes, but there have been a few underlying trends identified that will likely drive sales of handbags and purses. With pastel colors slated to make a return to prominence when the warmer weather arrives, several leaders of the fashion pack have already started to release bag models featuring the matte tones that are disappearing off shelves in a hurry.

As always, the Max Mara design team has come up with a winner and their Bobbio Croc Print Leather Bag is one of the early hot products for the season. The light green bag is made from leather and features a crocodile texture print to enhance the style. A further complement is the gold colored metal zip which provides a soft contrast with the green of the bag and shoulder strap. The slightly oversized dimensions of the bag, with a width of 8.5 inches, match the styles that have been released by other designers. In short, this bag hits every high note of the expected spring trends, with the right color, style, and size.

Another trend for handbags that seems to be coming out of the fashion shows is a penchant for knitted bags. Usually reserved for fall and winter collections, several designers debuted knitted styles for next spring, with one of the highlights being a darker cream colored option from Dolce & Gabbana. The intricate weave of the fabric and trademark latch are subtle and could fit well a knitted hat as a set of matching accessories. Other designers that are cashing in on the knitted materials are Proenza Schouler and Alberta Ferretti. While the knitted style may be popular next spring, the texture may not match the lighter materials used for clothes during this time. Therefore, this may be one trend a woman could choose to skip in putting together a more functional wardrobe.

Last, but certainly not least, large clutches are also slated to make a big splash this spring. Several designers have come up with their own version of the folder-type accessory, including Victoria Beckham and Marni, but the most exciting clutch handbag series is the line being produced by Donna Karan. Made from several different types of wood, the clutches are quite different from anything else currently on the market. Despite the wooden construction, the bags are very light and a woman will find that they are no heavier than bags made from leather or other materials. The classic design lines presented by the three models are quickly being lauded by fans and this is one bag that experts are predicting will be seen on the street in droves.

Although handbags are usually one area where designers normally agree on trends, next year seems to be an exception to the rule. Many different styles were featured at the Spring/Summer 2012 shows and it will be interesting to see which ones translate from critical acclaim to street popularity.

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