Banana Republic is constantly surprising me with chic, affordable bags. I love the chain embossed mini cross-body because it’s a classic style, made of embossed leather in beautiful spring colors – teal glaze, citron green and bronze. The cross-body can be carried three different ways: wear it across the body; drop the chain down to wear on your belt; or double the chain to wear as a shoulder bag.

Additional features include turnlock closure, cotton lining, and inner pocket. Price: $69.50 at Banana Republic.

Banana Republic has nailed it with the jeweled bow clutch. It’s quite elegant and perfect for any after 5 event. Embellishments can get tricky with evening bags because they tend to be overdone and take away from the overall look. Read the full story

With Spring just around the corner, it’s important to know what’s new in stores! Handbag Report has brought back its New In Stores segment for all of you that don’t have time to shop the malls for spring arrivals.

Kensington lady bag, $98, Kensington shoulder bag, $158

Flatiron embossed lady clutch, $120, Flatiron embossed baby satchel, $178, Flatiron triangle satchel, $228

While browsing InStyle.com, I came across a few of the top holiday trends (pictures courtesy of InStyle.com):

1) Satin

Banana Republic blue satin clutch, Price: $49.50, bananarepublic.com, Michael Teperson pink satin clutch with Swarovski crystal, Price: $1,100

2) Bejeweled Bags

Rodo suede with black crystals bag, Price: $2,190 at Chloe Lane; Leiber Aluminum with Austrian Crystals bag, Price: $1,295; Yves Saint Laurent strass and semiprecious stones on brass bag, Price: $4,495; Larisa Barrera sequined fabric bag with crystals and hematite and metal frame, Price: $1,350

3) Black & Gold

Lulu Guinness black satin bag, Price: $640, luluguinness.com; Coach python-and-brass bag, Price: $698, Coach.com; Rafe beaded linen bag with patent leather, Price: $295, Rafe.com

4) Pearls

Chanel canvas quilted bag with leather, metal and pearls, Price: $3,995; Whiting & Davis mesh bag with glass pearls, Price: $165