You probably bought several handbags in 2009, didn’t you? While lists of the top trends of the decade are out, handbags are almost always changing. 2009 saw some divergent and diverse styles that, with their boldness, nearly eclipsed everything from the past two decades. No longer is it acceptable to have a plain black handbag (unless it’s a cross body bag), and you’ve got to be bold. Some of the notable things we saw thing year were:

• Western style. From large and bullet studs on black leather handbags to fringe decorating many solid color bags, western fashion emerged on many handbags. Although a horseshow purse isn’t going to show up any time soon, enough embellishments turn an ordinary bag into a western accessory.
• Studs. Echoing the trend above, studs could be seen as western embellishments or rocker chic. Whether you were going for a refined western look or a torn punk rocker one, many solid black handbags were decorated with rounded or bullet studs this past year.
• The tattoo style. Ed Hardy may be found at your local thrift store now, but for the first half of 2009, this brand was at its peak as a favorite of urban fashion stores and club kids alike. Other designer and designer-inspired brands tried to copy their tattoo-decorated products, rhinestones, studs, and all.
• Hobo bags. Although these handbags hark back to slouch purses of the ‘80s with their shapelessness, the size has increased significantly. Not only can you use them for running errands but for a suitcase, as well.
• Reptile prints. Snakeskin – authentic for post designer brands – was seen everywhere for most of 2009, but python wasn’t the only reptile targeted. Crocodile and alligator skin or prints were used nearly as often. Although the texture and color scheme for many of these was kept intact, many were dyed a bold color.
• Bold leather. As mentioned before, it’s not really acceptable to have a solid black bag. Glam it up with a metallic shade or neon color.
• Animal prints. Jungle animal prints, as well as cow skin, was all the rage this year. The patterns, such as zebra or leopard print, were added to many leather or patent leather bags.