While handbags are always a key fashion accessory, belts are not. Belts rise and fall in popularity and this season they are definitely on the rise.

Handbags
Handbags like jewelry are returning to a more classic design. Much of the busy embellishments like buckles, studs, grommets, and zippers are gone. The over-sized handbags are not so over-sized. Leather and just about every reptile and animal skin thinkable is incorporated in the lines unveiled by leading designers, but it is the classic look of leather that takes the day. There is limited interest in patent leather, but the safe bet is the classic look of traditional leather.

Belts
Belts made a strong return in the spring and belts in any width were stylish. Wide belts are the important accessory for the fall, especially wide belts that emphasize the waist line. Here patent leather looks good. Belts are the hottest they have been since the mid 1980s and looks that have been forgotten since then are back. Remember wide stretch belts with butterfly buckles that hook in the front? They are back. Wide leather and fabric belts are also stylish. Another style from the mid eighties is the wide drop belts. They were part of the spring fashion for the younger market and are back for fall. The downside is when belts go out of fashion, they stay out for a long time.