Hmmmm….is it just me, or do the handbags of 2009 seem to be a little more whimsical than usual?  I don’t know if it is the new shapes, the popping colors, or the unexpected detailing, but there is something fun about bags this season!  Finally, women do not have to look at the cool and funky bags carried by teens and think, “that’s so charming, but I’m too old to carry that!”  Spring 2009 handbags are all about cute and fun, but in a grown up and sophisticated way. 

Former Vouge editor, Jennifer Alfano, kicks off this upbeat trend with her adorable Kissing Scarab Miniaudiers Collection, which is available in python, lizard, and karung.  This small, square clutch has clasp made of two stones designed to look like scarabs; when the bag is closed, the bugs are moving in for a kiss.  The Kissing Scarab clutch manages to be sweet and endearing in a very classy way. 

Then there is Coach.  Coach is definitely an industry leader when it comes to women’s handbags.  You can always count on a Coach bag to be sophisticated, timeless, sensible, and fashionable.  That is why the Legacy Mini Drawstring Pouch is such a surprise.  Coach takes a quick departure from their signature designs to bring you this small, fun, bag.  From the copious amount of hardware on the straps to the choice of purple lilac or bronze metallic, this bag makes you grin.  Cute is not a word I would associate with Coach, but there is no other way to describe this bag!  It is extremely cute, but, once again, cute in a stylish, sophisticated way.

Even Coach’s more serious Parker Convertible Hippie Bag breathes a ripple of fun, fresh air into the brand.  The Parker Convertible is simple and understated, almost devoid of hardware, and has an embossed logo rather than a nameplate, but it precisely this laid back quality that makes this bag so desirable.  It will become the new go-to piece in your accessory closet for casual outings.

Prada decided to be playful by adding large and floppy bows and streamers to a good portion of the bags in their spring 2009 collection.  The excess material is often is a shade or fabric that contrasts with the rest of the bag and while this type of design can be messy and unfocused, Prada pulls it off perfectly by keeping the rest of bag simple and chic.  The result is a very elegant bag with a cheeky hint of whimsy that keeps both the wearer and the viewer from taking themselves too seriously. 

If you want to rock the grown up fun handbag trend this spring, look for bags that have a subtle quirk about them.  An unusual (but toned down) color, an odd appliqué, a gemstone where you least expect it…this season it is all about bags with that je ne sais quoi that makes you take a second look.