Hot Spring Bags

Pink top handle and beige quilted bags from J.McLaughlin (Venetian Village, Naples)

In spring and summer, bags as well as clothing take on a lighter, fresher look, and this season there are some key trends to keep an eye on.

Pushing the Envelope: Downsize your purse and upgrade your style with an envelope bag. With either a fold-over top or front flap, these flatter styles are a great choice if you like the security of a bag that fastens. If you can’t give up your over-packed purse, try a slightly bigger, structured top-handle satchel style. On-trend neutral colors such as tan, gray and beige are easy to incorporate with between season clothing (especially if you’re preparing to head north soon).

Tan satchel from Michael Kors (Waterside Shops, and Dillards),Rebecca Minkoff striped tote from Pratt’s Shoe Salon (Venetian Village, Naples)

Complementary Colors: From classic clutches and printed purses to sporty stripes and two-tone totes, color abounds in every size and type of bag this season. Lift an outfit in a neutral palette with a ladylike bag in an unexpected punch of bright color and wait for the compliments!

Purse N® organizer insert from Pratt’s Shoe Salon (Venetian Village, Naples)

Keeping organized: If, when you transfer the contents of one bag to another you leave something crucial behind, the answer is an “organizer insert.” With compartments, pockets and spaces for a cosmetic purse, wallet, phone, keys and other essentials, switching stuff from bag to bag becomes a breeze, keeping everything safely in one place. If the bottom of your bag is like a black hole, choose an insert in a bright color or print so it’s easy to find. Best of all, an uncapped pen or melted mint won’t ruin the interior of your favorite purse.

Fashion expert Cheryl Lampard is the founder of Style Matters International, www.stylemattersinternational.com