Byline: BRITTA SCHMEIS
HAMBURG (dpa) -- A handbag can say more about a woman than her shoes and because the accessory has become so important, handbags are challenging shoes as the top-ranking object of desire among women going on a shopping spree.
"The handbag is a best friend, a status symbol and a mirror of the soul all at the same time. Women define themselves through their bags," said Ulrike Schwarz of the Handcraft Museum in Deggendorf near Munich, which has dedicated an entire exhibition to the handbag.
Thus, it's no wonder that handbag makers have begun giving their products names. Women don't carry a red or black handbag any more; they carry a Miranda, Julia or a Venezia.
LED Light Bulb MR16-3W"With some outfits, the purse is more important than the clothes," said Traudel Albrecht-Fuchs, fashion expert at the International Leather Goods trade show in Offenbach.
However, selecting the right must-have accessory is not always easy.
"Finding the bag that matches an outfit is the high art of perfect styling," said style expert Maria Hans of Hamburg.
The current fashion trend is towards large bags which means the straps have to be sturdy.
Also currently in style are bags that are cornered off, dark in colour and with plenty of detail.
A bag must endure wear and tear on a daily basis.
There are, however, limits to its functionality. When it comes to having a cocktail after work, attending the theatre and going on a first date, the roomy bag that's ideal for shopping should stay home, Hans advised.
"The ideal situation Tag heuer replica is to have two bags, if one plans to be out in the evening," she said.
Then you can leave the large one in the closet or in the car. You don't need a handbag big enough to carry a Filofax and a second pair of shoes to have a drink at the bar.
"In the evening there's no harm in carrying a small bag," said Hans.
Especially elegant is a small clutch bag under the arm or a handbag with short handles made of a beaded chain or metal links, said AlbrechtFuchs.
In general, the new trend is for a woman wearing an evening dress or suit to sport a leather bag which matches any outfit.
And at the moment, anything goes as colours and materials are mixed, and instead of tone on tone there may be different nuances.
Hans' wishes women would not carry or wear "dimwitted backpacks."
And she said the colourful courier bags with funny logos or slogans needn't be about in the evening. In the winter months when dark clothing is the rule, red usually makes the best contrast colour.
embroidered patches
All metallic colours such as copper, gold, silver and bronze are a must. Hans, however, advises paying attention to quality.
"A cheap gold bag can quickly show its wear," she warned.
But women do not have to buy the most expensive designer bag. Anyone shopping for a bag can pick a reasonably priced one.
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