The “Lady Bag,” or top handle satchel, was a huge handbag trend for fall 2010. When the spring 2011 runway collections hit the catwalk, the top handle satchel was nearly absent; minus the classic designers who keep the style in their collections regardless of the trends du jour. While Hermes and Christian Dior showed Lady Bag styles for spring, most designers such as Roberto Cavalli and Gucci opted for the trendier, 1970’s inspired shoulder bag with a long strap.

Consumers and Fashionistas everywhere were not ready for the classic yet trendy “Lady Bag” to fade into the background for spring, so shoppers continued to purchase the handbag style and store buyers happily stocked shelves with the satchel. Due to the demand for the classic top handle satchel, designers retuned the style to the runways for fall 2011; as if the handbag had never left the catwalk.

Almost every designer imaginable featured the top handle satchel for fall 2011 on their runways in New York, London, Paris and Milan. Some designers such as Christian Dior, featured the style with a detachable cross body strap to add versatility to the style. Gianfranco Ferre and Nina Ricci showed the classic silhouette with one top handle while Hermes and Christian Dior showed double handle totes for fall.

Whether you purchase the double or single handle style “Lady Bag,” the handbag is a classic and perfectly on trend for now into fall. The best colors to look for when purchasing a top handle satchel are neutrals that will last the test of time such as shades of Ivory, black, brown and navy. Happy shopping and stay fabulous