Far from the minimalist austerity of the previous decade, the first years of the second millennium ushered in flamboyant handbags with every possible type of decoration. In Fashion Avenue, the sector dedicated to designers and brands, could be seen the same trends continuing. Exhibitors from all over the world showed that the coming season will see bigger and bigger handbags and more glamorous shoes.
Handbags were mainly in soft leather in dark and pastel shades, with a lot of white, not previously seen before for winter wear, but obviously one of the newest trends. The leather itself was often shiny and with synthetic patterns, like photographs over-stamped on the skins. Crystal was widely used in decoration for both handbags and shoes, and although the bags seemed essentially for casual wear, fit accompaniments for jeans, they were often in shining gold or silver, with casual shoes to match. The quilted effect, popularised many years ago by Chanel, still persists and many quilted bags were seen. As a development of this leather was shown with various raised patterns.
Key word for leather accessories in the coming year would seem to be "shine", either from polish on the leather or crystal trimmings. Trimmings were also made of brass or copper. While fabric bags, including some elaborately embroidered, were a main feature, leather still took pride of place as a quality component. Genuine crocodile skin was not much in evidence, since the Italians perfected a method of stamping the crocodile markings on leather, which sells at a much lower price, this predominates. There was also a lot of snakeskin and some sting-ray skin for both shoes and bags.
Very pointed toes on shoes and boots did not appear, more rounded insteps taking their place. Highly decorated and trimmed boots in many colours were also shown. If there is a phrase to describe next season's leather fashions, it should be "elegant excess".
