It is said that the fashion accessories define the character of a woman by the attention she gives to small details. A carefully chosen fashion accessory will not go unnoticed, and will make any outfit stand out.

Handbag styles and trends change with the season and this summer is no exception! The hottest handbag trends for 2007 are centred around you and your "personal style" and offer a wide variety of colours and styles to choose from.

The oversized "large bag" is the now bag of the season - in fact, the bigger the better! This stylish trend of an extra large handbag that can hold everything is not only chic but practical and is an absolute must-have this season.

It's easy to lose your keys or small accessories when tossed into a bag this large - so look for a handbag that has zipper compartments or inside pockets. Or, add another handbag trend to your collection with a stylish "mini bag" or "clutch" that can easily tuck inside. Coordinating wallets, cell phone cases and key chains are also great affordable options and can be found in an endless array of colours and styles.

Large handbags may be the style of choice for daytime use, however you can easily transform your look for an evening out on the town with the exact opposite: A mini handbag, small clutch or wristlet! While these trendy compact totes can easily be stowed in your large bag they can also hold your phone, credit cards, cash, make-up and car keys.

A structured middle ground between the large handbag and the mini handbag is the "satchel". With its timeless style and functionality it seems to have emerged as one of the hottest handbag choices of the season.

A playful and sexy trend right now are handbags in rich, eye-catching hues and bold bright colours and patterns like candy apple red, royal purple, lemon yellow or juicy orange. You won't go wrong by choosing any colour reminiscent of a beautiful gemstone or hip pattern such as large stripes, animal prints, polka dots or plaid.

In contrast to the bright, bold colours this season, metallics are hotter than ever! Look for handbags in shades of brushed copper, bronze, gold and silver.

Of course, neutral colours are also a "must-have" this season, for example, rich chocolate brown, summer white and off-white since they can easily coordinate with your eclectic wardrobe. And we all know, that just like the "little black dress", the "basic black" handbag never goes out of style!

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