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.
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.
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:
This simple yet striking number has been at the top of my wish list for months.
A red handbag is the easiest way to add a splash of colour into your look.
This beautiful colour is perfect for spring.
I'll always come back to DeMellier for its supreme quality and excellent designs.
Next Up: 17 Classic, Chic and Practical Tote Bags I'd Never Kick Out of My Wardrobe
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.
On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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