1. Bold color - meant to be mixed with all kinds of colors, and can be worn with everything.

Carnaby Carryall @ J.Crew
Cashmere two-button cardigan tee @ J.Crew

2. Skinny belt - cinching your waist is an easy way to update.

Leatherock skinny double-wrap belt @ Nordstrom
Cynthia Rowley patent leather belt @ Nordstrom

3. Patent leather - shine on! It can be black, neutral, or bold.

Kooba ‘Jacinda’ patent bag @ Plaza Too
apt. 9 chain flip-flops @ Kohls

4. Dip-dye - An updated version of Tie-Dye. It’s done in soft colors this season, which looks good on all.

Secrets of Charm daria shirt @ Shopbop
Adam Lippes degrade halter wrap top @ Shopadam

5. Wide leg denim - a great way to update. It’s clean, classic, and fresh.

J Brand cass jean @ Shopbop
Goldsign ‘Treo’ high-waisted wide leg stretch jeans @ Nordstrom

6. Metallic - should be worn like a neutral, and goes with everything.

Zoey metallic clutch @ Plaza Too
Adam Lippes linen trench @ Shopadam
Liv metallic ballet flats @ J.Crew

7. Full skirt - easy to wear with a fitted top or tee.

Plenty by Tracy Reese printed skirt @ Nordstrom
Ruffle skirt @ Gap

8. Bracelets - lots and lots of bracelets. Bangles are fun for this season.

Asos chunky wood bangle w/ metal detail @ Asos
Elsa Peretti bangle @ Tiffany

9. Tribal prints - young, fun, urban, and edgy.

zebra smocked top @ Active Endeavors
tribal print sundress @ Topshop

You can’t help but feel the energy from the rainbow of bags that are in stores right now. It’s such a refreshing change from the blacks and browns, that we’re simply drawn to the brighter colors. Though, just as we contemplate which color to buy, a million questions come to mind. What will I wear it with? How often can I really use a bag of this color? Will it be out of fashion next season? Is it worth it? Well, we can’t answer all those questions for you, but we can help you with the first one. You would be amazed at how many ways you can wear a vividly colored bag. One way is to pair it with a print. A bright bag makes a great anchor for a floral or a pattern. Another way is to pair it with another bright color, like a yellow bag with a bright blue dress. The idea is not to be too matchy, a bright blue bag with a green dress is unexpected but looks fabulous. Also, a bright bag can punch up a neutral or a basic color. A bright green bag with navy, or a yellow bag with grey will make the outfit pop into the now. Of course, it always look great with jeans and a white t-shirt. Basically, have fun with this trend. Don’t over-think it. Pick a bag in a shade that you love, and ultimately you’ll be happy with your purchase.

items in this observation (l to r):