Ask Any Fashion Editor—This Will Be the New Trending Bag of the Season
Massimo Dutti's Split Leather Maxi MD ICON Tote is the bag our editors all want for 2026. Here's why.
I will admit it: I did not think one bag trend would manage to unite fashion editors, street-stylers and my entire group chat this quickly, but here we are. Brown suede bags have quietly taken over this year, popping up everywhere from Paris Fashion Week pavements to coffee runs in East London. Somewhere along the way, brown has edged out black as the go-to neutral; it feels warmer, softer and a little more intentional right now. And then there is something about the suede texture that makes even the simplest outfit feel considered without trying too hard. It works with tailoring, denim, knitwear, trench coats—basically the whole wardrobe—which is why I am confidently calling it the bag of the season, and honestly, the year. One style in particular has stopped us mid-scroll: the Massimo Dutti Split Leather Maxi MD ICON Tote.
It is the kind of bag you spot once, then keep seeing everywhere. Our editor-in-chief Hannah Almassi is already a fan (and when Hannah commits to a bag, it usually means something), and it makes sense why. It feels directional without being shouty, luxe without the price tag spiralling, and very much in step with the whole quiet-luxury-but-make-it-practical mood right now. The warm brown suede, the oversized proportions and that unfussy silhouette make it the sort of piece you can build outfits around, not just carry as an afterthought.
On a practical level, it ticks all the boxes. The roomy tote shape fits a laptop, scarf, water bottle and whatever else you end up hauling around, while the lined interior keeps it feeling sturdy rather than slouchy. There is a discreet card pocket inside (always appreciated), plus both top handles and longer straps so you can wear it on your shoulder when your hands are full. It closes with an internal buckle rather than a zip, which gives it that relaxed, fashion-editor feel we all want right now. If you're after a suede brown bag, this is the one to get your hand one. Shop it below along with some of our other favourite brown suede bags.
Shop the Bag:
The hero. I love how oversized it is without looking bulky, and the suede feels far more expensive than the price suggests. This is the one I would take from office to weekend without switching bags.
Shop Our Other Favourite Brown Suede Bags:
Another editor favourite.
If you want something that feels very fashion-insider, this is it. I have seen so many editors carrying this in neutral outfits that let the texture do the talking.
My all time favourite bag!
DeMellier does practical luxury so well. I have owned one of their leather bags for years and it still looks great.
Something a little more compact.
Zara has been on a roll with accessories lately. This is a great entry point if you want to try the trend without overthinking it.
This is the bag I would take to brunch, shopping and then straight to dinner without thinking twice.
I'm a big fan of the Chloé Marci tote (I've had mine since university) so this smaller version is calling my name.
