Although the over-sized totes are still in, purses will have a more classic look this spring. Because of the current economic state, purses will be focused more on functionality and practicality. This emphasis on functionality sees the return of the shoulder bag. Expect to see many purses with the option of over-the-shoulder carrying or hand-held toting with many internal compartments and exterior pockets. Soft embellishments also seem to be popular, such as rouching, pleats and weaving of the exterior material.

When it comes to color this spring, anything goes. The trend for classic looks favors conservative tones, including black and dark shades of brown and gray. But you don’t need to play it safe; bold sweet and sour candy shades, delicate pastels, earthy Aztec and jewel tones, and the vintage hues of the 70s are all set to make an appearance this spring.

Here are a few purses we got in recently from Melie Bianco:

Hobo With Woven Metallic Trim And Rouched Pocket

Ribbon Satchel With Studs

Multi Woven Clutch (one of 3 different color themes)

Stone Clutch

To keep your wardrobe up-to-date, here are a few key pieces you probably already have in your closet that you’ll definitely want to hold on to for the new year: print dresses, any classics, menswear-inspired clothing, fancy white buttondowns or blouses, and big-bigger-biggest statement jewelry.

The slouchy menswear-inspired pant is a keeper, paired with a tall heel of course. Prints are continuing to become even more popular, morphing from florals into something more abstract. The most expected way to wear a print is a floaty dress or full skirt.

Accessories are going to be bigger than ever this year. Literally. Statement necklaces have grown to the size of bibs, encrusted with stones and embroidery. Rings, too, are big. Instead of wearing just one, wear multiple rings; the more, the better.

Also keep in mind that everyone should have a blazer in their closet this season.

Wire Frame Earring Holder
Keep all your earrings organized and decorate your wall at the same time.
EMAIL PRINT RSS SHARE -An empty frame — if you don’t have one already, thrift stores are great places to find old frames for very cheap
-Wire cutters
-Tape measure or ruler
-Spray paint (optional)
-Sharpie
-Thumbtacks (the kind with the flat top)

Step 1 (optional): If you decide to get an old frame from a thrift store, don’t worry about it looking messy — it’s nothing a little spray paint can’t fix. Lay your frame on newspaper and give it a good coat. We suggest gold for an antique look, but your favorite color will work too.

Step 2: After your frame dries, turn it over and measure its diameter 1/2 inch from the inside of the frame. Mark with Sharpie and cut the wire mesh to size.

Step 3: Use your thumbtacks to secure the wire mesh in place and hang on wall or set up wherever you see fit.

Step 4: Hang all your earrings on it and you are good to go.

Mental_floss Magazine just added up the scores and ranked Ice Cream Flavor or Paint Color? as the number one quiz on their site. How good is your knowledge of Ben & Jerry flavors?