By Bag Snob Tina on October 26, 2012 12:00 pm Tina Craig

Glimpsing bags as they breeze by on the runway is never the same as touching and getting personal with them – which I was just fortunate enough to enjoy. The Chanel Spring 2013 preview unveiled what is likely the strongest accessories collection from the brand in years.

It was impossible not to get distracted by the giant hula-hoop bag at the show. But aside from the frivolous theatrics – purely for our entertainment, by the way, as it’s not being mass-produced (no shock there!) – there’s a substantial array of bags at work. Or rather, at play, I should say. It doesn’t get much more playful than this for the ever-evolving house of Chanel. It’s all about elements of vivid primary colors and innovative takes on shapes and ways to wear. A graphic belt-bag, which sits on the hip at a thrillingly asymmetrical angle, also functions as a clutch – so very chic. Another scene-stealer: the Lego-like rendition of the classic flap. Funky-fresh as it is, it’s still very Chanel. Like a little kid, I don’t want to wait until spring for my new toy!