The hottest handbag trends? This season, there are a bunch – which obviously leaves one with no choice to buy lots of new bags. Using our Handbag Hit List: Picks in Every Shape & Size Boutique as a guide, let’s take a moment to break a few of the must-have characteristics down (and then let the shopping begin, of course).

Oxblood
Don’t be scared. This term simply refers to the deep red – almost maroon – hue that’s been trending like mad all season. Carry it proudly.

Colorblocking
Your closet’s colorblocking rules? They now apply to bags, too. Do yourself a solid (sorry, couldn’t resist) and get as many geometric swatches of color onto your arm candy as possible.

Structural Shapes
Pique interest with an original, architectural shape, like this rounded satchel. (Trapeze shapes are also spot-on with this trend).

Our Handbag Hit List: Picks in Every Shape & Size Boutique opens Tuesday, December 4, at 11AM ET.

By Sarah Stanley, Staff Writer

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As predicted by Peter Som, Rodarte, and YSL (and many others) on the Fall 2012 runways, this dark chocolate-dipped cherry hue has won its way into our hearts and wardrobes. While it works well in full skirt suit form, as sported recently by a certain British Princess, I prefer to let this mystery-meets-chic shade add subtle accents to fall outfits.

Chianti, burgundy, or black cherry – oxblood by any other name still adds a little brass to jewel tones, leather jackets, and jeans.

Cherry On Top
Replace summer’s straw fedora with this cherry-brick wool one. Pair it with a vintage dress and ankle boots, and express a little 1920s flair.

Reveal Your Dark Side
Flattering on every skin tone, oxblood lipstick is a darker and richer alternative to the classic red lip color. One coat with a touch of mascara and you’re out the door.

Dress It Down
There’s nothing cozier in a chilly office than a puffer vest. Pair an oxblood vest or scarf with an oversized sweater and jeans for an on-trend and casual ensemble.

The Saturated Skinny
Shelve mint skinnies until next season in exchange for these saturated blue-red jeans. Make it a biker-chic morning in a leather jacket or do post-work drinks with the simple addition of heels.

Beet Red
Give your nail technician the week off from Pinterest-inspired patterns and opt for something simple, striking, and in season.

By Julia Ivins, Staff Writer

What other ways do you wear oxblood? Share it in the comments below or tweet us @ruelala.

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