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And That's a Wrap: 4 Luxury Handbags That Defined 2025, According to an Editor
As 2025 comes to a close and we reflect on the resolutions we tried (and those we ditched), the trips we took, and the purchases that left our financial advisors flabbergasted, we can't overlook the fashion items that not only shaped our personal style and wish lists but also truly defined this year. We all know the power of an incredible handbag, and despite the ongoing list of "most coveted" purses, we never fail to return to the classics. The Fendi classics, that is.
Welcome to Fendi Wrapped 2025, where our editor discusses the top four Fendi handbags that dominated fashion conversations this year. I could spend hours delving into the cultural significance of the iconic Fendi Baguette bag and the brand's infamous rise to stardom, from 1925 to today, but I'll spare you the full history lesson. However, I will give you an abridged version that focuses on Fendi's 2025 reign—featuring everything from celeb sightings with the Spy Bag to key style resurgences to the bags we'd like to unwrap before the year ends.
When I think of Fendi, the first bag that comes to mind is the legendary Fendi Baguette—and that's quite a statement coming from a Gen Zer who was born the same year the bag launched. Since 1997, it's dominated resale sites, vintage stores in major cities, and the closets of your favorite designer bag collectors. This Y2K staple outlasts every trend cycle and maintains its status as the bag you'll never give up. Pictured above are some of the many (and I mean many) versions of the bag that fashion lovers—even those with more classic style—have added to their wardrobes. If your accessories lean more neutral, the baguette is available in just about every hue you could dream of. We couldn't imagine ranking this heirloom any lower than first place.
If you consider yourself a designer bag enthusiast, it should come as no surprise that the "mother" of the Fendi Baguette is ranked high on this list. The Mamma Baguette was a constant on our TV screens and wish lists in the '90s, 2000s, and beyond, appearing in a variety of colors, prints, fabrics, and silhouettes. This year, in celebration of Fendi's 100-year legacy, the fashion house released a contemporary iteration that fashion people were drooling over. Seen on and off the spring 2025 runways, it maintains the original bag's DNA, but with high-quality, soft nappa leather, a drawstring closure, and a beloved under-the-arm design for busy on-the-go people. Silvia Venturini Fendi designed it with excellent craftsmanship at the forefront, allowing the handbag to age gracefully, whether it's the contemporary version from a Fendi store in your city or the classic version delivered to your doorstep in a vintage dust bag.
2025 marks 20 years since the release of the Fendi Spy Bag. What we thought would forever be classified as a Y2K gem has surpassed fashion predictions and made its way into the category of "cross-generational favorite." In celebration of this milestone, the brand reimagined the bag in two new colors and sizes, which debuted at Fendi's F/W 25 show. Although the newer styles take on a more contemporary approach, Fendi kept the bag's original twisted handles and signature hidden pocket detail under the flap (AKA the reason it's called the Spy Bag). Don't underestimate this Italian fashion house's ability to keep up with trends while staying true to its heritage. This 2025 release came at the perfect time, as we continue to see larger slouchy hobo bags trending. Paparazzi caught some of our favorite celebrities and fashion insiders sporting this ultra-chic silhouette, further confirming why it's a defining purse for this year.
Last, but most certainly not least, we have the Fendi Peekaboo. Embodying creativity and stellar craftsmanship, calling this bag a work of art would be an understatement. It's your classic leather shoulder bag, but with an iconic trapezoidal shape and twist lock. Unlike some of the other bags on this list, many iterations of the Peekaboo take a more discreet approach, with a smaller logo and simpler design. Its more unique elements become apparent when the turn-lock clasp is twisted to reveal an interior that is often a contrasting color or material. Designed by Venturini Fendi to be worn open or closed, this peekaboo effect is an optional detail that adds depth to one's personal style, bringing a playful nature to just about every look.
And that's a wrap on our bag breakdown for 2025. Celebrities, influencers, tastemakers, and more gravitated to these iconic styles, and for good reason. They represented the style evolutions, trends, and classics, while paying homage to the pieces that transcend generations.

Aniyah Morinia is a beauty and fashion editor based in New York City. Since starting at Who What Wear, Aniyah has developed a passion for hosting livestreams, working red carpets, and creating TikToks in addition to writing fashion and beauty stories. She'll never pass up the opportunity to uncover an NYC hidden gem or mix and mingle with her friends (all while swapping holy-grail products, of course).
