I Thought this Bag Trend Was "Dated"—Angelina Jolie and French Women Disagree

Angelina Jolie's personal style is all about elegance and simplicity. Favouring a dark colour palette—the actress is found styling head-to-toe black most days of the week—Jolie keeps her outfits interesting and polished through the use of thoughtful accessories. A long-time fan of oversized sunglasses and classic court shoes, this past weekend she was seen gravitating towards another "dated" accessory that puts a polished spin on any outfit. 

Favoured by the French, Jolie opted for a sleek top-handle bag in her favourite jet-black shade. With a smooth leather finish, neat clasp closure and compact size, the top-handle silhouette is the easiest way to add a refined finish to a casual outfit.

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(Image credit: Backgrid)

Styling it with a grey wool jumper and black wide-leg trousers for a pared-back yet sophisticated look, she ignored vivid colour and stuck to her favourite neutral colour palette, incorporating only a lick of red polish on her nails.

Having ebbed and flowed in and out of popularity throughout the 1900s, the top-handle bag is firmly back for 2024—proving that it's always worth holding on to special items. Whilst the classic design can be picked up from both designer and high-street brands, it's always worth searching on pre-loved websites, as this style has been in circulation for decades. 

The compact handbag is ideal for an evening out as it's large enough to stow away your essentials, but it should be packed modestly to avoid looking over-filled. Styled by the French for any occasion, the smart handbag complements an elegant ensemble but will look just as chic paired with jeans and a T-shirt.

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_ )

French content creator Sylvie Mus consistently favours her framed top-handle bag.

Surpassing its slouchy sisters, this elegant handbag is quickly emerging as one of 2024's biggest bag trends. To shop the style that comes French girl-approved, read on to discover the best top-handle bags to buy now.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST TOP-HANDLE BAGS:

Next Up: 17 Classic, Chic and Practical Tote Bags I'd Never Kick Out of My Wardrobe

News Writer

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Previously freelance commerce writer at British Vogue, Natalie’s experience spans journalistic and styling roles, which have seen her work on shoots for publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK and write for publications including British Vogue and Conde Nast Traveller. With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news and trends for Who What Wear UK, with a particular focus on celebrity style and emerging fashion trends.