Spring into 2012 with 10 of this season's best "It" Handbags

The new year means a fresh new take on trends that influence everything from clothing to handbags and accessories. “It” bags are a fantastic way to showcase your sense of style without reworking your entire wardrobe. Trends for spring 2012 handbags include everything from ladylike pastels and transparency to athleticism, modern embellishment and prints.  

I, for one, love a good handbag, and highly recommend investing in classics, like my beloved vintage Chanel 2.55 that was a Christmas gift from my hubby. However, I also encourage shoppers to reach for a perfectly trendy “it” bag before spending ample amounts on clothing. Accessories can be worn daily and majorly update and transform an outfit.

The multitude of “it” bags for spring 2012 will start popping up on store shelves and websites soon. Being the fashion addict that I am, allow me to introduce my 10 recommendations for spring....

Marc Jacobs Bowler

Marc Jacobs knows how to create a good bowler, and this one is no exception. The shape and mix of leathers make the athletic inspired "Krystal" handbag stylish and hip.

Marc Jacobs "Krystal" Bowler, $2,195, at www.marcjacobs.com

Proenza Schouler Camera Case

Step aside PS1 – the Proenza Schouler camera bags for SS12 are sure to be your biggest competition. These adorable little satchels pay homage to a retro look with their boxy, structured shape and mod like coloring. I expect to see these babies popping up in street style photos and on the camera clad bloggers out there.

Proenza Schouler Camera Case, $1,850, at proenzaschouler.com

Prada Pyramide Handbag

Yet another example of designers paying homage to an earlier time. I love the ladylike structure and gorgeous green hue of this top handle bag. I envision it as the perfect piece for the lady who lunches. 

Prada Saffiano Leather Pyramide Bag, $2,950, at www.prada.com
 

Tory Burch Raffia Tote

Tory Burch gives us the classic tote with a funky twist in the raffia tote bags she sent down the runway. I love the versatility of this piece and picture it as the perfect little vacation number full of magazines on the plane and perched next to me on the beach. 

Tory Burch Raffia Tote, $275 at www.toryburch.com

Derek Lam Patchwork Handbag

Derek Lam gives us a structured, ladylike satchel with a pop of print in a stunning exotic skin. This bag is my absolute fave! Bold and floral prints are big for spring 2012 and I can see this satchel paired with a floral dress or pant suit for a modern mix. 

Derek Lam Patchwork Handbag, $3,190, at Saks Fifth Avenue and Derek Lam New York store

Alexander Wang Rocco

Alexander Wang has always been a personal favorite of mine. I love how he updated the well-known Rocco bag in a pastel yellow for spring with pale gold hardware and signature studs on the bottom. This mini duffle is an example of the athletic influences we will see in 2012. Look out for the Alexander Wang backpack inspired by a golf bag! 

Alexander Wang Rocco Handbag, $875, at alexanderwang.com

Valentino Studded Handbag

Valentino juxtaposes modern edge with ladylike structure in this embellished studded double handled handbag. White handbags are always so fresh – just make sure you are a lady who can wear white – it can get smuged easily!

Valentino Studded Double Handled Handbag, $2,695, at  www.valentino.com

Victoria Beckham Victoria tote

Another one of my personal faves, I love the Victoria tote. This bright Hermès orange will be a very popular color this year, with Tangerine Tango as the Pantone 2012 color for spring. The navy sides give it a modern mix with a touch of color block. 

Victoria Beckham Victoria Tote, $3,300, Neiman Marcus

Louis Vuitton Transparent Lockit

Louis Vuitton gives us an updated version of the iconic Lock-It with athletic inspired transparency in leather and nylon. The white-on-white is so fresh for spring and perfect for any resort ensemble. 

Louis Vuitton Transparent Lockit, $3,450, at louisvuitton.com

Miu Miu Satin Bag

I love the sweet vintage style of this '20s inspired Miu Miu satin bag. Again we see the pale yellow as an on-trend pastel for 2012. Carry this as an alternative to your usual evening clutch.

Miu Miu Satin Bag, $1,810, at miumiu.com

So there you have it, ladies: The "it" bags for the stylish women of 2012. Which bag suits your style?  

Lindley Arnoldy writes the fashion and style blog The Flip Side.