Nothing adds to the beauty of an outfit more than a classy purse and the handbag trends for spring are full of color and texture to add to the beauty of any spring time outfit. Plus, a stylish handbag not only makes an elegant statement, it helps to keep your belongings organized and accessible. Here are some of the hottest 2008 spring handbag trends:

Handbag trends for spring: Candy colored handbags

Purses are blooming into an array of brilliant colors for the spring with the emergence of the candy colored purse. These purses in shades of pink, yellow, and orange are guaranteed to transform even the most monotone of outfits, adding a welcome breath of color. These handbags are so vibrant you can use them as the focal point of a spring outfit. Even a simple black dress or black suit can be instantly transformed with the addition of a bold, candy colored purse.

Handbag trends for spring: The clutch bag

If you like a smaller purse, spring 2008 has the solution for you with the appearance of the popular clutch bag. Never dull, the clutches for 2008 will range from smaller more discrete clutch sizes to oversized framed purses in a variety of unusual fabrics including patent leather, graphic prints, snake skin, and, of course, leather. The name of the game is texture which can range from a crunchy bead texture to a softer, fringe one. These clutches are sure to look chic clutched in the freshly manicured hands of fashion trend setters and the working woman alike.
Handbag trends for spring: The super sized hobo bag

If you carry everything in your purse except the kitchen sink, a clutch bag may not be for you. Spring 2008 has a ready solution in the form of the super sized hobo bag that can hold all of your most critical belongings. Expect to see them in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, green, and blue in keeping with the springtime trend towards vibrant color. You’ll love the roomy capacity of these oversized bags.

Handbag trends for spring: Metallic bags

Metallic bags will add a touch of sparkle and opulence to springtime fashions. Expect to see metallic bags in the shape of clutches as well as ones with a retro flair in the form of chain mail box bags. Colors will range from burnished gold to gunmetal grey. These purses make a strong statement when worn with evening wear.

As you can see, spring handbag trends are all about texture and color. There’s a size for every woman ranging from the more delicate clutch to the oversized hobo bag. These bags are sure to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to spring time fashions in 2008.

With so many shoe choices for spring and summer of 2009, you’ll have ample opportunity to step out in style this year. Shoes have never been quite so colorful or flamboyant as they are for the upcoming season. Ready to expand your shoe collection? Here are some of the best trends in shoes for 2009.

Trends in shoes 2009: An explosion of color

Even if you prefer to play it safe with a pair of black shoes, you’ll have a hard time resisting the tempting colors that’ll be all the rage this spring and summer. Footwear for 2009 is brilliant in color with bright orange, purple, and hot pink leading the parade. Shoes this outspoken will be hard to ignore when worn with vibrant spring and summer dresses on streets everywhere. You’ll also find bright color combos for a true explosion of brilliance. Lean more towards the classics? If brightly colored footwear isn’t your style, you can still find subtle, muted shades for a more sedate showing of color.

Trends in shoes 2009: Embellishments rule

Shoes have taken on their own jewelry for spring 2009. You’ll find shoes with trendy zippers, large buckles, and metal trim and embellishments of all types, frequently displayed in multiples on a single shoe. Look for lots of fringe and detailing to add additional interest.  Footwear for 2009 is anything but plain.

Trends in shoes 2009: Sky high platforms

You can be of average height and look like a supermodel when you slip on a pair of sky high platforms, destined to be so popular this year. With heels this high, it may take some walking before you’re brave enough to wear them to work. If platforms aren’t your style, you’ll find tons of stilettos that will raise you to dizzying heights. Get prepared to be tall this season (or at least look like you are).

Trends in shoes 2009: The gladiator has staying power

If you thought you’d seen the last of the gladiator sandal, think again. It’s poised to be even stronger and bolder for spring and summer 2009. These trendy Roman inspired sandals will take on an even brighter note as they emerge in brilliant colors to add a splash of bold color to even the most demure feet. These sandals will make a bold fashion statement this season as the colorful straps climb sensuously up your legs.

Trends in shoes 2009: Flower feet

Florals are blooming everywhere this season, even on spring footwear. It’ll feel like you’re tiptoeing through the tulips when you slip on a pair of floral print shoes with a colorful spring dress this summer. To make an even bolder floral statement, try wearing flowery shoes with a bold floral print dress. Warning! This look’s not for the faint of heart!

Enjoy the new trends in footwear 2009, but don’t get carried away. With looks this extreme, they probably won’t be around for very long.

Shoes are anything but demure this spring and summer. Discover the biggest trends in shoes for the upcoming season.

A woman’s pocketbook plays an important role both in terms of fashion as well as in every day life. Not only is it indispensable for carrying around supplies such as a wallet and other essentials, it also makes a fashion statement on its own. What’s less understood is the way a well chosen pocketbook can subtly enhance your basic build and figure type. Unfortunately, few women take this factor into account when they choose a handbag which can be a missed opportunity. Here’s how to choose a woman’s pocketbook that will flatter your basic build and figure type.

If you’re petite

If you’re petitely built, small pouch or pochette bags with simple, uncluttered lines can be quite flattering. Large hobo bags, duffles, and satchels tend to be too overwhelming for your smaller frame. Another elegant option, particularly for evening is a small, clutch bag. Small doesn’t have to be boring. Select a clutch bag with an interesting, decorative closure or check antique stores for small, vintage clutch bags. These unique handbags can add a lot of character to an outfit.

If you’re tall and thin

If you’re tall and model thin, you’re a natural for carrying the big, roomy messenger bags and oversized satchels that have the space for you to tote around half of your belongings. Large, hobo bags also help to balance out a tall, slender figure. You, for one, have the stature and height to look great carrying oversized, sloughy bags in bright, bold colors. Take advantage of the fact that you can carry off a large, statement making woman’s pocketbook. Stay away from diminuitive purses and clutch bags which can get lost with your height.

If you’re heavy

If you’re carrying a few extra pounds, choose a woman’s pocketbook that’s square or rectangular in shape to offset some of your curves. Avoid big, slouchy round bags that will only accentuate your voluptuous body. At the same time, small purses can also make you look larger by contrast. Keep the size moderate with clean sharp lines, not too big and not too small. Avoid choosing a handbag that stops at your biggest problem area. For example, if you have wide hips, choose a style that ends higher on your body.
A woman’s pocketbook can be used to accentuate your best body parts. For example, if you have wide hips and a small waist, choose a bag that stops at your waistline to draw attention to this feature. The best way to find the perfect handbag is to study your reflection holding the purse in front of a three way mirror. Look at it from all angles and make sure it’s not overwhelming or underwhelming and that it doesn’t call attention to your worst body parts. Most people fail to spend the time necessary to really see how a purse interacts with their body type. Make sure you’re comfortable with the way it looks and feels before pulling out your credit card.

The world of fashion is a notoriously fickle one, and it is important for all shoppers to understand what looks are in and out of style before hitting the mall.  Some looks are so classic that they never seem to go out of style, while other outfits may be suitable for only a single season.  Understanding the hot trends for 2009 will help you make he most of your limited fashion budget.

With that in mind let’s take a look at some of the hottest styles and colors for 2009:

- Stylish Black and White – the classic elegance of black and white never seems to go out of style.  Expect to see lots of bold new outfits in black and white this year.  From classic tunic dresses to bold business suits, black and white is definitely in style.

- Classic Pastels – pastel colors are always a hit when the spring and summer seasons roll around, and 2009 will be no exception.  From subdued pinks and lilacs to lovely shades of blue and green, pastels are hot for 2009.

- Tropical Colors and Bold Patterns – tropical colors and patterns are also expected to be very much in style this year.  From bold floral patterns to more subdued tropical patterns, look for lots of dresses, suits and more with a tropical look.

There’s no faster way to enhance a wardrobe than with beautiful jewelry. Even if you can’t afford to buy the latest designer fashions, you can update an outfit you already own with a stunning necklace or a great pair of earrings. This spring and summer promises to offer lots of fashion forward jewelry options for making your own stylish statement. Here are some of the best 2009 jewelry trends for spring.

2009 Jewelry trends: Charms, charms, charms

As sleeve lengths become shorter and necks become more exposed, expect to see necks and wrists dripping with colorful charms. Taking a lead from such celebrities as Gwen Stefani, charms are a way to express your individuality and your personal interests. Whether you wear a bracelet or necklace with a few carefully selected charms or chains overloaded with them, they’re sure to make a statement this year.

2009 Jewelry trends: Silver

With the economy in the doldrums, a flash of silver adds a touch of brightness. Gold may be out of most people’s price range, but silver is still an affordable option. You can also expect to see silver mixed with other metals including brass, copper, and gold-filled for a fun and affordable jewelry alternative. Oxidized silver will give a slightly vintage look will be seen. The good news? Silver is timeless and never really goes out of style.

2009 Jewelry trends: A natural touch

Although bright colors will dominate, stylish trendsetters still want their jewelry to have a natural, organic touch. Think natural beads and gemstones such as turquoise, jade, and coral for a splash of color straight from Mother Nature. A newer natural material that will be showcased in necklace and bracelet creations is bamboo which is the new “wood” for spring. Don’t forget about the standard semiprecious stones such as onyx. If it’s natural, it’s in for spring and summer 2009.

2009 Jewelry trends: Botanicals

This is another play on nature. You can expect to see nature blooming on the wrists, ears, and necks of fashion forward women this spring and summer. Leaf and floral themed pendants and charm will bring fashion closer to nature while adding an elegant touch to spring fashions.

2009 Jewelry trends: Drama

Jewelry for spring and summer 2009 is anything but demure. If you can’t afford to make a statement with a new designer outfit, you can at least layer on the necklaces and bracelets for high impact. Expect to see multiple eclectic necklaces and bracelets worn on wrists and necks, creating visual drama. What better way to express yourself?

2009 Jewelry trends: Focus on the wrists
If you want to make a strong fashion statement this season, rediscover your wrists. From jeweled cuffs to bold bangles, wrists and arms will be in the spotlight. “Arm candy” is an inexpensive way to update your spring and summer wardrobe for 2009. Think statement making!

With so much jewelry excitement, you can quickly update your wardrobe without spending a fortune this year and still step out in style.