If there's anyone in the world who is opposed to the fake version of anything, it's fashion girls. Knockoffs are typically deemed never worth it, and most of the time (if you ask anyone remotely engaged with the fashion world), a direct fake is simply forbidden. Well, there's one exception to this rule, and that's when it comes to animal products such as fur and leathers. Today, we're here to hone in on one particular handbag trend that fashion girls always buy the "fake" version of, and that's crocodile.
This fall has been all about the croc-effect handbag trending in versions ranging from belt bags to more traditional carryalls. Instead of spending thousands on a product that is not sustainable, women are buying the faux-crocodile version instead. While it's safe to assume that these shoppers value sustainable mission statements and vegan products, it also doesn't hurt that some of the most talked-about brands of the year are designing the mock-croc bags everyone's carrying (we're looking at you, Nanushaka, Staud, and By Far).
Ahead, take a look at how a few of these fashion girls are styling the faux-crocodile handbag trend and shop our favorite versions of the trend.
Style Tip: Sling your belt bag over one shoulder for a more forward street style–inspired look.
This belt bag, as pictured above, is a fashion-girl favorite.
And so is this.
We recently discovered this brand and are in love with everything about it.
No one does mock croc like Trademark.
Style Tip: Opting for a faux-croc handbag in an unconventional shape makes even the most polished of looks feel fresh.
While the brown color shown in the above image might be more practical, this white is irresistible.
Sweet and affordable.
Wear this mint color throughout every season.
We love the vintage feel of this red saddle bag.
Style Tip: Match your mock-croc handbag to your skirt for a stylish monotone look.
Another unconventional handbag shape to make your outfit pop.
Use your belt bag to cinch an otherwise overwhelming outerwear piece.
It's pink, it's on sale, it's perfect.
The kind of bag you can wear with just about anything.
Style Tip: Don't be afraid to wear your most classic bags with your most trendy outfits. Most of the time, the juxtaposition is just the thing your outfit was missing.
This blue color is all we can think about right now.
Worth the investment? Always.
This one looks so expensive.
Let this transition your outfit from day to night with ease.
Next up, shop the items that dominated our Instagram feeds in 2018.
-
I Work in Fashion—These Are the 10 Fall Investment Pieces I *Know* Are Worth ItSee what made my list.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic Rich-Looking Pieces for Fall 2025Everything is under $100.
-
My Mom Only Shops at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls—Here's What She Sent Me to Buy for Fall 2025She had me at under-$100 Uggs and Levi's.
-
The New Elite Way to Shop Is Off the Grid and Invite OnlyIf you know, you know.
-
I Just Started Investing—31 Chic Pieces That Will Have Me Dressing the PartEffortless and elevated is the goal.
-
I Shopped so You Don't Have to—the Ultimate Fashion-Editor Fall 2025 Wish ListIt-girl fall has arrived.
-
The Refined Edit: 32 Luxury Finds on Sale at SaksStarting at just $58.
-
Editor Instincts Activated: We're Grabbing These 18 Fall Pieces Before Everyone Else DoesRun, don't walk.
