6 Handbag Trends That'll Make You Ditch Your Black Tote For Good

If you're going to buy a designer handbag, it's understandable to want to invest in something classic. When you're spending a lot of money, you want to be sure you're going to get your money's worth. But all too often, you replace your worn-down, go-to black tote with,surprise, another black bag. Well, it's time to break that play-it-safe cycle.

Fortunately, the runways this past Fashion Month from New York to Paris are signaling that the end of the classic black handbag we all know and love is near. But what's getting its moment in the spotlight, instead? Bags that take a more-is-more approach, complete with 3-D embellishments, statement straps, and novelty shapes. And no matter how scary those might seem at the moment (we can just feelyou clutching your simple black crossbody for dear life), we're betting the trends ahead are going to be reaching the masses in no time at all — and your closet is no exception. 

So, will one of the in-your-face handbag details ahead be what it takes to finally break your black-leather-handbag habit? Click on to decide for yourself.

3-D Embellishments
Get ready to let your bag be the focal point of your look, with can't-miss embellishments like knitted floral appliqués, chunky bedazzling, and studs and buckles galore.

Velvet Textures
Crushed or detailed velvet textures will be taking center stage come next fall. And it'll have double the impact when executed in rich jewel tones, like magenta or emerald green.

Oversized Shoppers
Good news for those of us who constantly carry too much in our black-hole bags: These oversized shoppers (preferably in loud, graphic patterns, like stripes or plaid) are here to channel the inner over-packer in all of us.

Double-BaggingWhy carry one bag when you can carry two? Balance out a dressier, bedazzled handbag by doubling up with a simple, vintage-looking coin purse — one bag for the essentials and one for, well, everything else.

Metal Ring Handles
Too bad for our cold winter hands, because bags will be trading leather straps for structured or architectural metal rings that are cold to the touch, but look way too cool for school.

Hands-Free Phone Cases
Take a less-is-more approach with a crossbody or belt-bag that literally only holds your iPhone 6, and nothing else.