Trends

The wonderful world of bags

Fashion bags for winter 2008 are reserved and calm in terms of colour, shape and decoration, but those XXL big bags are still the main players.

Overall, the colours are dark, but not the overpowering dominant colours from previous seasons — these are more reserved, and loud garish colours are avoided.

Similar to the clothing trends, grey is the new colour for the season and found in various shades.

Black seems to have overtaken brown in the popularity stakes. Browns have not disappeared; they are merely used in different shades, for example natural matt brown, cognac, and dark brown, as well as beige.

Dark red is a favoured colour for accents, as is warm green tones, for example olive.

Alongside the darks, we also see pale tones as contrast tones, for example sand, putty, off-white and silver grey.

Soft, gentle materials are the popular choice, with leather dominating. Fine calfskin and nappa leather are in the mix with fine, natural textures and graining, or slight embossing. Faded leather is still on the scene, but it is less creased than before.

There is a trend towards using matt and shine contrasts, which means combining suede and patent leather, but the patent leather has to have a wet look. Satin and high quality nylon are used to create shine, and velvet for a shimmery matt look.

Moc croc is back, but brings with it new croc looks and coloured texturing.

The fascination with XXL bags continues. This time they are available in unisex styling, which means they should also appeal to men. Volume and softness are still the two main characteristics for the XXL bags, which is why pouch styles and additional pleats and gathers are in demand. These big bags get a remake with new colours, finishes and details.

Shoulder bags are worn across the chest and come in various sizes.

It seems that fashion rucksacks are set for a revival. The tendency towards reserved decoration means interesting front and side pocket ideas are adding an individual touch to the styles.

Decorations are used sparingly, with discreet stitching, studs and rivets. Fasteners are given a playful touch with adaptations from belt buckles and padlock fasteners.

The three main trends are shaped neutrality, dark attitude and bronze reflection.

The shaped neutrality trend features voluminous, short-handled bags and big XXL bags that have sleek styling, as well as fashionable crossover messenger bags. Materials are sensual, for example leather, suede and velvet. Colours are pale, neutral tones in greys and black.

The dark attitude trend is, not surprisingly, dark. The colours are black and near-black darks that dominate, but are made to look interesting with materials such as patent leather, fine nappa and mock croc.

Look out for pouch-style shapes with short handles, game bags, equestrian styles, and sporty pouch bags in the bronze reflection trend. The main materials are natural leather that is slightly textured or faded, animal skins and furs, and nylon. Natural brown and olive tones, and warm but discreet metallics (especially bronze) are the colours.