I didn’t plan to fall in love. It just happened. I was enjoying a chilly, snowy weekend up in Vermont, and as I was strolling down a quaint, quintessential New England Main Street, it caught my eye. Called to me, really, from the store of a little shop. A bright, shiny, patent leather bag that held the promise of spring in its showy, lemon yellow exterior. There was no discussion, no consideration, save a quick peek at the roomy interior. I wandered in and immediately made it mine.

Looks like other StyleFeeders have the same idea. Judging by the handbags that have been added to the site lately, shade is going to be more important than shape for spring. So I say, if you’re going to buy one bag this season, make it patent leather in a primary color. Blue, yellow and red nicely offset the other bright shades that are in for warmer weather, and will give your spirits a boost!

If you’ve got the coin, this blue Dolce & Gabbana beauty is a worthy splurge:

If you’re on a budget, check out these lookers that both come in for well under $40: Alloy’s Pedley hobo in a fetching shade of yellow, and ASOS’ patent red clutch, inspired by Sienna Miller’s penchant for Chanel:

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You should have your holiday party look together by now, but on the off chance that you’re still looking for the finishing touch for your New Year’s Eve ensemble, let’s talk handbags. More specifically, kick-ass clutches. There are so many great options this year, why limit yourself to just one?

This season, StyleFeeders are loving shiny patent leather in eye-catching colors and embellished beauties in mother-of-pearl for bags that can serve as your single, stand-out accessory. A good, basic rule is that there should be an inverse relationship between the sheen of the fabric and the shape of the bag: the more dramatic the fabric, the simpler the shape. Keep jewelry and shoes more muted if you’re going for a statement bag.

For evening, you can’t go wrong with metallic. Pick a clutch in silver, gold, bronze or pewter, and for extra drama, pair with metallic heels. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to shine on this season’s holiday circuit; some of our favorite picks from stores like Ann Taylor Loft and Mark are under $30.

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