Now that another fashion month has come to a close and I've had the chance to do a full survey of the spring/summer 2027 shows, it's time to report on my findings. When it comes to the handbags that will shape next-season style, I've already pinpointed the future It bags to know and the trends and themes that are shaping what will be deemed cool and buzzy in six months' time. I've zoomed in on hundreds of runway images and had countless conversations with my fashion-industry friends, so I can say with certainty that the spring bags below are decidedly it.

Designers were aligned on several fronts, primarily that our bags are about to get more opulent, maximalist, and, well, fun. Bags arrived with beading, embellishments, and fringe finishings. Luxury labels took the opportunity to revisit their greatest hits, and we saw the return of beloved and nostalgic faves like the Proenza Schouler PS1, Gucci GG Marmont, and Fendi Baguette. Here, discover these themes and every major handbag trend to know from the spring/summer 2027 runways.

The Major Spring/Summer 2027 Bag Trends

The Eras Tour

Designers reached into their archives this season and brought some of their most iconic silhouettes. Whether it was the return of the Proenza Schouler PS1 Bag, Gucci revisiting its unrelentingly popular GG Marmont, or Hermès bringing back the polished Bolide Bag first designed in 1923, it was a season of in-house comebacks of designers' greatest hits.

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Collectibles

When it comes to spring handbags, the more intricate, the better. Styles leaned maximalist with all manner of embroidery, beading, and embellishment that lent each bag an heirloom quality. Whether it was Chanel Flap Bags with multi-print finishes and many one-of-a-kind Fendi Baguettes that dominated the spring 2027 runways or the rerelease of the Fendi Croissant from its Cruise 2027 collection, these special-edition bags are set to be fast-tracked to archival status.

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On Body

While top-handle and shoulder bags remain the overarching silhouettes right now, the spring collections presented a number of alternative ways to hold and carry a handbag, from waist bags to necklace pouches and wristlets.

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Serpentine Shades

The spring '27 It finish is none other than snakeskin print, but it's not just any snakeskin. Saturated hues like cherry red, purple, and kelly green arrived at Prada, Miu Miu, and Fendi and gave the edgy print a playful feel.

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The Downtown Weave

Raffia and woven bags for spring and summer? Groundbreaking. While their existence wasn't newsworthy, designers reimagined the context for these warm-weather carryalls. They're no longer relegated only to beach trips and summer weekends, but they are being rethought for the city too. Woven bags were styled with trench coats and denim for a cool mash-up between vacation and non-vacation wardrobes.

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Hand Carry

The coolest clutches next season look like slim envelopes and folios. We saw this play out at Celine, Chanel, and Bottega Veneta, where these petite clutches replaced the oversize shapes we've been seeing for the past few seasons.

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Double-Strap Dominance

Bowler bags may have once been a buzzy new trend but have officially graduated to staple status in the most stylish wardrobes. This season's runways gave the silhouette a major stamp of approval, with several designers—including Prada, Jil Sander, Kallmeyer, and Tory Burch—sending out double-strap styles.

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In 2026, buying a handbag takes weeks, if not months, of consideration for most people. It's an investment and should be treated as such. Luckily, when a desirable new one debuts during fashion week, we have six months to budget or, if you're really responsible, even longer. After all, if you've wanted something for that long, you know it's worth it. But what if you don't know which one to buy? Maybe you want a work bag that will seamlessly go from the office to after hours, a clutch that works for black-tie weddings and dinner dates, or an everyday shoulder bag that you can pass down to the next generation but don't know where to start. There are literally thousands of options to choose from, which is kind of the problem. Figuring out which of those you'll still love in a decade or two is the solution, and I've got 13 of them.

Below, discover the 13 best investment designer handbags of 2026, all of which are guaranteed to still look impressive in 2036, 2046, and beyond. There are Chanel by Matthieu Blazy options that will become collector's items, The Row bags that aren't impossible to get your hands on but are just as timeless as a Margaux, and slightly more affordable (but still extremely well-made) options by editor-favorite brands like DeMellier and Savette. If 2026 is the year you invest in a new handbag, make it one of the hand-selected few from this list. In 10 years, come find me. I bet you'll still be carrying whichever style you choose.

I know it might be tempting to lean into a palette of moody blacks and greys as winter's dreary days set in. But if you're willing to look beyond the usual suspects, there's an elegant, rich-looking bag trend I'd recommend adding to your rotation. Wearing well with a winter wardrobe, my research has led me to discover that it pairs with virtually every shoe colour, too.

Instead of black bags, the chicest people on my radar are reaching for burgundy styles this season.

Just as easy to wear as your go-to black tote, burgundy bags are uniquely versatile. Their deep, jewel-toned hue brings a luxurious depth to heavier winter shades, whilst adding warmth and dimension to lighter ones.

I don't know about you, but I often find that putting together a great outfit is easy until I get to the bag and shoes, which always prove a little trickier. Which is precisely why this chameleon-like bag trend deserves an article of its own.

Far from a fleeting trend, burgundy bags have the staying power to earn a permanent place in your wardrobe. So, ahead of winter's coldest days, read on to shop my edit of the best burgundy bags available to buy now.

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When I want to know what chic women are wearing, I often look to our French friends. Last week, I planned a quick trip to Paris, and whilst I was there, I carved out a little time to sit in a bistro and people-watch to see how the native elegant dressers are styling their winter wardrobes. Within a few minutes, it was clear one bag has become the defining style to carry this winter, and true to form, it's a polished style from French handbag expert Polène.

As soon as Polène launched, its ethos was clear: beautifully made bags with a distinctly high-end look. Since its inception, we've seen the brand become the in-the-know name to carry, from the spacious Cyme bag that is frequently spotted on my daily commute to the smartly designed Numéro Dix, which can convert from a shoulder bag into a crossbody in a matter of seconds. Now, the Boky has arrived, with a sculptural design that demonstrates craftspersonship and exudes timeless elegance with each detail. The design is inspired by bookbinding, with meticulously folded leather creating two zipped compartments with a central pouch offering plenty of space whilst still maintaining the clean lines of the design.

As ever, Polène doesn't just consider the look of a bag, but embraces practicality alongside it, which can be seen in the adjustable strap and various compartments. The newly launched style is available in a series of sleek shades, from deep burgundy to a soft green, which caught (and held) my attention. Now, the style is quickly becoming one of winter's chicest bags, and we expect it will become a timeless favourite like so many other Polène styles. Scroll on to explore the Polène Boky bag.

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It’s at this part of the year that we turn our attention towards party season. The weather is cooling, the nights are getting longer, and whilst the invites might only be trickling in, it’s an opportune moment to start percolating on what to wear. As tradition suggests, the festive period is one where sumptuous textures are not only encouraged, but almost made compulsory.

However, between the velvet ballet slippers and silk trousers vying for our attention, the satin bag trend has discreetly emerged as the party bag du jour for elegant dressing, and I'm sure it'll become a near-staple over the festive season.

It’s a bold claim to make only a few weeks into autumn, though one that will duly prove correct by the time your first soirée rolls around. Still, you only need to consider the plethora of sightings the satin bag trend has already had, let alone contemplating the array of covetable styles on offer, to understand why it’s being asserted at all. For the uninitiated, the modern reboot of the satin bag trend actually kicked off over a year ago at Prada’s spring/summer 2026 show.

Presented during Milan Fashion Week, the collection was punctuated with high-shine pouches rendered in candy-coloured satin fabrics that immediately became one of the defining accessories. In part, this was due to its nonchalance. Without any formal straps or pretences, especially when clutched in a model’s viper grip, it almost signalled that the wearer was too cool to lug around a cumbersome tote. After all, isn’t wandering around with little care and, in turn, very few belongings, the ultimate form of luxury?

Then, in New York, two prolific members of the celebrity style set proved that in quick succession. The first came from Kendall Jenner, who, when visiting the pop-up store for Korean skincare brand Anua, carried around a teensy, ochre-coloured Cecily satin bag from The Row. The next month, Zoë Kravitz was pictured outside of her Brooklyn brownstone ahead of attending Taylor Swift’s wedding at Madison Square Garden. For the occasion, she paired a vintage Balenciaga midi dress (which dates back to 1965) with the same The Row bag, albeit the black satin version.

That’s not even including the instance last summer when Hailey Bieber stepped out in Manhattan with the very same Cecily style on two separate occasions.

Whether rendered with a soft drawstring or in minuscule proportions, the satin bag trend brings an everyday elegance to dressing that few other styles can rival. And after being co-opted by discerning tastemakers, it’s only a matter of time before this trend becomes a ubiquitous staple.

Still, during a time when cocktail parties and evenings out are a common occurrence, the satin bag trend serves as the ultimate discerning plus one. It is never brash, always classy and an entirely chic way to embrace ornament dressing without feeling like a walking bauble. So, without further ado, scroll through to shop the satin bag trend.

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There are certain items that feel impossible to find. The perfect pair of jeans. A cashmere sweater that doesn't pill. Heels that don't make walking feel like a torture exercise after the first wear. The most frustrating? A work bag that actually works. Just when you think you've found the right one, something doesn't fit when you need it to, or the straps don't fit around your bulky puffer coat when true winter arrives. It'll annoy you if you let it, but I'm here to convince you that, at least when it comes to the latter predicament, a solution does exist. Bottega Veneta's new Corso bag is the work bag you've been searching for, and a week with it over my shoulder proved it. Let me explain.

A few weeks ago, I took the Corso bag, designed by Bottega Veneta Creative Director Louise Trotter, for a test drive. I brought it to set for a shoot that involved me transporting half of my wardrobe across L.A. I also brought it to the gym, then to the office, and then on errands afterward. It fit everything I needed and then some, and the little zip-up clutch that comes with it isn't just a bonus. It's also the perfect catchall for VIP items, like your keys, your wallet, and maybe a lip liner or two. No digging is required thanks to the leather strap it comes attached to, which allows the carrier to pull out their essentials in a bind.

What makes this bag especially great for work is its versatility. Often, women are forced to choose between practicality and aesthetics, but the Corso tote checks both boxes. According to a press release, the style is "defined by generous volume, pared-back construction, and signature Intrecciato," providing "a distinctive architectural presence." It was designed for "everyday movement," accommodating "life's essentials without compromising ease of proportion," the release continues. Its long straps make it perfect for year-round comfort, fitting just as well around summer T-shirts and dresses as it does bulkier coats and jackets. Plus, the smooth-leather exterior carries with it significantly less worry than suede would, meaning that you don't need to meticulously check the weather report each time you want to take it out of your house or apartment.

Below, see how I styled the Corso bag, which debuted in Trotter's F/W 26 collection for the Italian house in the maxi size. I tried out the classic medium size, and if you have even more to lug around than I typically do, there are not one but two larger-sized options for you to choose from.

Styling Ideas

For a day at the office, I stuffed the Corso bag with all of my workday essentials, from an XL water bottle to my laptop and my laptop case. I also had my makeup bag and a change of shoes for driving. Plus, I filled the interior clutch with my keys, wallet, and more. Given its versatile appearance, I didn't have to stress about styling, grabbing it to wear with a white T-shirt, a vintage khaki pencil skirt, and my heavily complimented Bottega Veneta sandals.

Over the weekend, I kept my test strong, packing the Corso with a long day's worth of must-bring items, like a snack, my Kindle, and a sweater in case the temperature dropped. I styled it simply with a white poplin dress and heeled sandals.

Corso Bag Details

Sizes: Medium, Large, Maxi

Colors: Black-Brass Vibrato, Black, Deep Mahogany, Bark Green

Material: Intrecciato Lambskin Leather

Lining: Suede

Hardware: Brass Vibrato Finish

Made In: Italy

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When it comes to the winter bag trends 2026 has to offer, I'm particularly interested in the styles that do a little more than simply carry your essentials. Winter dressing is, by its very nature, a fairly practical affair. There's outerwear to contend with, shoes that can withstand a downpour and the eternal question of whether an outfit is actually warm enough to leave the house in. It's a season that asks a lot of our capsule wardrobes, often at the expense of the fun stuff. But if there's one accessory I think deserves a little more attention at this time of year, it's the handbag.

More than somewhere to stash your keys, phone and the lip balm you inevitably lose somewhere in the lining, a good bag can change the entire mood of an outfit. The right one can make jeans and a knit feel infinitely more interesting, lend polish to a puffer coat or bring a little evening glamour to an otherwise unremarkable Tuesday.

Looking at the winter bag trends for 2026, there's a particularly appealing mix of practicality and personality. I'm seeing structured styles that look as though they have a very important meeting to get to, softer shoulder bags that wouldn't look out of place in a '90s fashion street-style photograph and plenty of interesting details that give familiar silhouettes a fresh feel.

Colour and texture are playing their part, too. Warmer shades of white offer a welcome reprieve from winter's usual rotation of black, grey and chocolate brown, while leopard print continues to make a compelling case for being the most useful non-neutral in your wardrobe. As someone who gravitates towards elevated basics and a fairly restrained palette, I appreciate an accessory that does some of the personality work for me. Whether that makes me more interesting or simply better accessorised is perhaps beside the point.

What I particularly like about this season's offerings is that you don't need to overhaul your wardrobe to make them work. All of the best styles are the ones that slot seamlessly into what you already own, giving familiar coats, jackets (my pick being stand-collar), knitwear and denim a new lease of life. So, if you're looking to invest in a forever piece or simply want to make your winter uniform feel a little less, well, uniform, these are the seven winter bag trends 2026 has firmly on my radar.

6 Bag Trends That'll Make You Look Chic Every Day This Winter

1. Business Bags

Style Notes: Who needs a briefcase when the fashion crowd has made a case for the boardroom-ready handbag? Do I ever find myself in a boardroom? No. Do I occasionally want to look like someone who could close a multimillion-pound deal before lunch? Absolutely. These structured, flapover styles have all the gravitas of a traditional work bag, only considerably more chic. There's something about their clean lines and quietly authoritative silhouettes that makes even the most mundane commute feel a little more Succession.

Of course, you don't need a corner office, a PA or even a particularly important meeting in your diary to make one work. I'd carry mine with tailoring for the full executive fantasy or use it to bring a little polish to jeans and knitwear. And if you happen to leave the flap open while rummaging around for your notebook, lip balm or the receipt you've been meaning to throw away since September, so be it. Even the most capable woman has to find her keys eventually.

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2. Big-Cat Prints

Style Notes: If your winter wardrobe consists largely of black, cream, camel and other very sensible colours, may I suggest a leopard-print bag? As someone whose idea of a daring outfit can occasionally amount to wearing a different shade of brown, I appreciate an accessory that makes me look like I actually work in fashion. Enter leopard print, which has that rare ability to make an outfit feel more interesting without requiring you to rethink everything you're wearing.

That's precisely why I consider it such a useful addition to a pared-back wardrobe. Against a black wool coat or a simple knit and jeans, it introduces pattern and a little irreverence without feeling remotely difficult to style. You don't have to be particularly adventurous with your clothes to wear it, nor do you need to subscribe to the maximalist school of dressing. Sometimes, you just need a bag that suggests you have more going on than an excellent collection of basics.

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3. Ecru Tones

Style Notes: There's a reason I keep coming back to ecru when it comes to winter accessories. Whilst stark white can sometimes feel a little too bright against the richer tones we tend to wear during the colder months, this warmer, creamier alternative has a softness that makes it look inherently more expensive. Of course, the designer and silhouette have a say in that, too, but ecru is a very good place to start if you want a lighter bag without veering into anything too stark.

I also love the way it freshens up an otherwise dark winter outfit. Against black, chocolate brown or camel, it creates just enough contrast to make the whole look feel more considered, whether you're wearing a tailored wool coat or a puffer that has seen better weather. It's a relatively small change, but one that can make your existing wardrobe feel entirely different. Think of it as the fashion equivalent of getting a haircut when what you really need is a holiday.

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4. Tassel Details

Style Notes: If there's one thing I appreciate about party season, it's the permission to be a little less sensible with your accessories. Winter dressing can become rather utilitarian by the time you've factored in the waterproof coat, practical boots and the bag that needs to accommodate everything from your gloves to your card. A tasselled bag feels like a welcome change of pace. With glossy fringing, satin finishes and beaded designs, this season's iterations are less festival boho and more sophisticated operawear.

What I find particularly appealing, though, is that these bags aren't being saved exclusively for evenings out. Yes, they're lovely with a slip dress or elegant tailoring, but I also like the idea of styling one with jeans and a simple knit. There's something delightfully unnecessary about carrying a bag with a silky tassel to pick up a coffee, which is precisely the point. Not every accessory needs to justify itself on practical grounds. Sometimes, looking pretty is a perfectly good reason to leave the house with something.

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5. Soft Shoulder

Style Notes: After what feels like an eternity of oversized, structured totes, I'm quite ready for something with a little more give. Enter the soft shoulder bag: an understated, distinctly '90s silhouette that slips neatly beneath the arm without making you feel as though you're transporting the contents of your entire desk. Suede is still very much part of the conversation, but buttery leather is an equally appealing option if, like me, you live somewhere that treats a weather forecast as more of a suggestion.

The beauty of these bags is that they don't demand much from you. Their supple construction gives them an easy, almost slouchy shape, while the shoulder strap makes them wonderfully simple to wear over a chunky coat. They're roomy enough for the essentials, but without the boxy proportions that have dominated the tote market of late. And because the material moulds to whatever space you can give it, they feel wonderfully unfussy. Essentially, they're the handbag equivalent of the person who looks effortlessly put together without ever appearing to have tried.

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6. Skinny Belts

Style Notes: I'm always interested in the bag trends that prove a small detail can make a surprisingly big difference, and belted styles are a case in point. Rather than the oversized buckles and conspicuous hardware we've seen in recent seasons, winter 2026 is bringing us much more delicate straps that wrap around otherwise minimal designs. The effect is subtle, but it gives a familiar silhouette an extra point of interest without making the whole thing feel overworked.

I particularly like the look on structured totes, where a slender belt offsets the sharp lines and boxy shape. Manu Atelier's Tote de Jour is a good example of why the detail works so well, and it's easy to see why it continues to crop up on fashion people. The best thing about this trend is that you don't have to spend designer prices to get the look, with versions appearing across a range of budgets. It's a pleasing reminder that sometimes the difference between a perfectly nice bag and one that makes you look twice is a single, very well-placed strap.

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7. Elongated Croc

Style Notes: I know we're supposed to be talking about winter sensibilities, but I'm willing to make an exception for a very good evening bag. This season, the clutch is getting longer and leaner, with elongated silhouettes finished in glossy mock-croc and embossed textures that feel particularly well suited to party season. It's a welcome alternative to the tiny, barely functional bags that can just about accommodate a bank card and a single mint.

I'm particularly fond of croc-effect finishes because they have a knack for making an accessory look expensive, whatever its price tag. The texture adds depth and interest without relying on bold colour or conspicuous branding, while the elongated shape feels fresh and a little unexpected. I'd style one with sharp tailoring, a simple skirt and top or an otherwise pared-back ensemble. It gives even the simplest outfit a focal point without requiring anything particularly elaborate from the rest of your look. And with party season on the horizon, I'd argue that's a very good return on investment for a bag that probably won't fit much more than your phone.

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I've spent the last few years carrying a tote big enough to fit my laptop, a spare pair of shoes, and probably a small dog if I was lucky enough to have one. It started with a few runway collections that stuck with me. Remember when Miu Miu models walked around with their totes overflowing? It's still my go-to on long workdays, but lately, I've noticed fashion people setting theirs down for something much smaller. The clutch is back, and this time, it's tucked under the arm with jeans just as often as it's paired with a dress for dinner.

You don't need to retire your tote since it'll still be there for the next airport run. Consider this a nudge to make room for a clutch this fall. Below, see how the chicest dressers are styling clutch bags, then shop 24 of my favorites, from Zara finds to forever pieces from Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent.

How to Wear It

An outfit for a sunny stroll gets seamlessly elevated when you swap the shoulder bag for a sleek east-west clutch. If you don't know what to wear on the weekend, try this.

By the way, carrying a clutch doesn't mean you have to squeeze it all into a mini bag. Oversize clutches deserve a seat at the table as well.

A sleek all-black outfit looks 10 times better with an elevated clutch. It works just as well at the office as it does at a sidewalk table.

Who says clutches have to be minimalist? This master class in maximalist style can't be missed. Kitschy clutches have reached their peak.

This is my dream look for a slow Saturday with a late breakfast and nowhere to be until dinner. Tucking a clutch under one arm keeps the whole day feeling relaxed but still put-together.

Let's Shop It

There's a certain kind of buzz in the air when a new DeMellier collection drops. Known for meticulously crafted styles, tested over months to ensure their real-life practicality and with an exceedingly expensive look, the brand has made its way into the wardrobes of the most elegant dressers around. Now, the Icons collection has arrived, and I predict that this capsule will sell out overnight.

Since its launch, DeMellier has created a collection of intricately made bags, many of which have become iconic styles across the globe. This collection takes a look at some of the most treasured styles, reimagined by tastemakers Taylor Hill, Lena Mahfouf, Rebecca Donaldson, Grece Ghanem and Romee Strijd to create a limited-edition collection.

From the beloved New York tote to the newly arrived Stockholm bag, these five creatives have worked alongside Mireia Llusia-Lindh and DeMellier's design team to reimagine the brand's signature styles through colourway, texture and material. The result is a curated edit of refined bags in smooth suede, soft khaki shades and croc-effect textures which feel modern yet timeless, whilst retaining the elevated appeal of all DeMellier's creations. As the best pieces tend to move fast, let's get straight into the five limited-edition styles in the new DeMellier Icons collection.

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1. Romee Strijd x The Stockholm

2. Grece Ghanem x The Midi Hudson

3. Rebecca Donaldson x The Stockholm Shoulder

4. Lena Mahfouf x The New York

5. Taylor Hill x The Large Siena Bucket

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If you're as chronically online as I am, you won't have failed to spot the recent "girl grip" trend. These aesthetically curated pictures showcase the female juggle: women expertly clutching their phone, laptop, headphones, lip gloss, coffee, makeup bag, book (you name it), all without a handbag in sight. (See Gisou's perfect example of the vibe below). As both a fashion editor and a type B personality, this display of the "frazzled" girl on the go had my immediate attention (since when did my daily struggle become a trending hashtag?!), but more importantly, how did we render one of the most important pieces in our capsule wardrobes obsolete?

Before I start to sound overdramatic, there is something in the move from ludicrously capacious bags to carrying everything in our bare hands. The "quiet luxury" woman was immaculately presented and always prepared. Her wardrobe? Monochrome. Her bags? Business-class totes. Quiet luxury wasn't just about wearing a lot of beige cashmere; it was a lifestyle, and if you were ever guilty of bed head, stains on your top or leaving the house without an umbrella, it might have felt like an exclusive club you weren't invited into.

Then the Prada spring/summer 2026 show sent everything spinning on its axis. Wrinkled shirts! Deliberate stains! The same season, No. 21 showed jumpers strewn around necks and creased, messy layering, and the star of the Loewe show was an equally dishevelled offering: the sensible Amazona handbag deliberately carried by one handle and unzipped to the point of almost spilling open.

Suddenly, being polished was no longer premium, and instead, designers insisted the chicest thing a woman could be was hurried and unprepared. This could well have led to the "TikTokification" of the aesthetic, bringing forth the "girl grip", and a sudden influx of tangled, wired headphones and balanced coffees. If anyone has ever put this into practice, though, you'll know just how desperately unhelpful it is to have no bag whatsoever, and next season's runways make a compelling case for stacks of mini bags that still feel just as chaotic.

LVMH Prize winner Julie Kegels showed mini bowling bags doubled up and thrown over the shoulder, whilst Fendi almost acknowledged that although beautiful, the baguette doesn't quite boast enough room for everyday use, and stacked them over shopping totes reminiscent of the commuter who brings a comfy change of shoes to work. Sure, we could fit everything into one big bag if we wanted to, but where's the fun in that? After Jonathan Anderson's latest Dior collection showed a small quilted handbag with a string shopper, the implications were clear: mini bags are back on the agenda, even if it means carrying two to make it work.

Fed up with switching between big, boxy bags and clasping your essentials? Keep scrolling to see and shop some of the mini bags getting this fashion editor's full attention in 2026. Fair warning, though: they're so good, you might want to buy two to carry together.

Shop the Mini-Handbag Trend for 2026

I’m always intrigued by how a new It bag makes its entrance. Some are instantaneous, with long lines curving down the streets on release day, whilst others take a slow, steady approach, gaining traction over a season or years before icon status is awarded. Now, the Saint Laurent Simone bag has taken a different tack. Insiders have already got their hands on the pre-order style, and across the globe, the most elegant dressers are carrying the Simone bag on repeat.

Before its official launch, the Simone has cemented itself as the bag of autumn 2026, but true to Saint Laurent form, we predict this won’t be a one-season wonder. Nestling itself alongside the likes of the Sac de Jour and the Icare, the House’s carefully curated designs are always injected with a timeless appeal, attention to detail and craftspersonship that withstands moving trends, and even sets them.

For autumn 2026, the flap bag form has returned in a big way, and in line with this, the Simone presents a flap silhouette in an envelope shape, inspired by Monsieur Saint Laurent’s personal letters and envelope pouches of the 1970s and 1980s. Elongated straps add to the refined look, finished simply with the Double Cassandre motif to nod to its luxury origins. Inside, two pockets sit alongside a zipped pocket to keep your essentials close at hand, whilst a magnetic closure keeps the streamlined look of the bag in place. This may be a new addition to the brand’s handbag lineup, but it feels so signature that I just know it's set to be a longstanding favourite, even before its official release.

The campaign imagery sees models pairing the bag with intricate lace dresses, but the fashion crowd is already proving that this is a bag that moves through the day. The spacious interior, whether you're opting for the medium or large size, is big enough for daily essentials, naturally pairing with jeans and a leather jacket for Lila Moss, or a light trench and minidress for Bella Hadid.

And it's not just these two style icons who have tapped into the bag of the moment. Amelia Gray carried the sleek black leather style with cuffed jeans and loafers during Paris Fashion Week, whilst Anya Rubik leaned into a monochromatic white look, letting the black Simone bag be the punchy finishing touch.

With inherent poise, practicality and luxury, it’s no wonder that fashion insiders are already selling out this pre-order Simone bag. If you’re ready to invest in an It bag that will be treasured for years to come, I’d recommend joining the list, as this one is already moving fast.

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Whilst we might still be a little way away from winter, I’m using this transitional season to get my ducks in a row. Re-jigging my capsule wardrobe? Done. Saying an emotional goodbye to my linen two-pieces? Naturally. As the new year creeps ever closer, I’m taking stock of life (that is, my clothes, accessories and shoes) and how well they’re actually working for me. And it was all going swimmingly until I turned my attention to my handbags.

You see, when it comes to the wonderful world of bags, I’ve always felt a little lost. Arguably one of the fastest-moving trends on the fashion cycle, it can be hard to keep up with the shapes and styles gaining in popularity each year. One minute a bag feels impossibly chic, the next, wildly impractical. We go all in on logomania, then we’re back into the quietly luxurious. Even for a seasoned fashion editor, it can all feel a little discombobulating.

Although my own rotation may leave little to be desired, I’ve always understood the enduring appeal of a great investment bag. Before your mind instantly goes to an über-luxe creation being shown off by a chic celebrity It girl in the city (though I do love a good daydream), let me stop you right there. Investment means something different to everyone. One person’s splurge is another's sensible purchase. So on my quest to find worthy contenders, I cast my net far and wide.

So, I tapped up nine of the best-dressed fashion people I know, including some of my fellow Who What Wear UK editors and my favourite fashion content creators, to create a carefully curated edit of bags actually worth knowing about—the ones they've got their very discerning eyes on. From quietly classic styles to statement-making shapes destined to dominate, these are the top picks of some of the industry's finest.

9 Bags on the Wish Lists of Fashion People This Season

1. Savannah Nielsen Elizalde

2. Maxine Eggenberger

3. Franny Fyne

4. Lou Northcote

5. Remy Farrell

6. Evie Mills

7. Poppy Nash

7. Maya Fidel

8. Marina Avraam

9. Brittany Davy

At Who What Wear UK, we're lucky enough to boast resident experts on all things fashion. Looking for Gen Z trends? Junior fashion editor Imani Francis-Tsolaki is your go-to gal. Have a penchant for shoes? Acting deputy editor Rebecca Rhys Evans knows the latest happenings below the ankle. But if there’s one area I consider myself particularly clued up on, it's bags. Clothing trends may turn on a dime, but bags are the practical investment that are with us for the long haul. And after spending summer loyally using the same basket, bucket and weekend bags I used the year before, I've been looking ahead to the new season, and for autumn/winter 2026, the designer bags making their way onto my wish list are already shaping up to be some of the most covetable yet.

From fresh takes on established house signatures to the new silhouettes poised to become the next big thing, the coming season is bringing plenty to get excited about. Whilst clean totes and simple shoulder bags have always been wardrobe mainstays, A/W 26 feels particularly focused on pieces that balance timeless appeal with just enough fashion-forward detail to be considered "certified fresh". Think bold shapes, rich colour palettes and the kind of instantly recognisable designs that are likely to take over the street style circuit (and my saved folder) well into the colder months.

So, if you’re considering your next designer handbag purchase, these are the A/W 26 styles worth knowing about now. I'm convinced that there's something in the mix you're going to love.

The Very Best Autumn/Winter It Bags for 2026

Style Notes: The Puzzle, the Flamenco, the Amazona—Loewe has a knack for creating memorable handbags that feel distinctive without ever being overly flashy, and the Whisker bag is a perfect example. Think the origami folds of the Puzzle, but with the soft structure and curves of the Scarf; it has that effortless, fashion-insider appeal that makes a bag feel current whilst still practical and wearable. The signature Loewe detailing adds just enough recognisability, whilst the compact proportions make it an easy choice for both pared-back daytime looks and more polished evening outfits. It might be one of the first original bags to come out of Loewe's McCollough Hernandez era, but expect to see the Whisker bag making a strong case for itself as one of the quietly chic pieces that fashion people have come to expect from the brand.

Shop the Loewe Whisker

Style Notes: Few handbags in history have quite the staying power of Chanel’s Flap bag, but for A/W 26, Blazy's oversized Maxi version has caught my attention. Taking the house’s instantly recognisable lid closure and top strap and reworking it in a slightly more pared-back quilt and even smooth caviar leather, the generous, slouchy proportion feels in line with the creative director's approach to RTW; all of the classic Chanel hallmarks are still there, but with a younger, more laid-back attitude. The beauty of the Maxi Flap is that it has enough presence to anchor a pared-back winter outfit (just take a look at the runway shots if you don't believe me), but you're still carrying that unmistakable Chanel appeal. If you’ve been looking for an investment bag that feels timeless but not predictable, this is one to have firmly on your radar. That is, before it sells out entirely.

Shop the Chanel Maxi Flap

Style Notes: If you already own a Jodie, Andiamo, Sardine or even a Casette, you'll know Bottega Veneta has a way of making even the most understated handbags feel like smash hits. The new Eilo is no exception, and from the moment it made its runway debut, its boxy shape and elegant finish have the kind of quiet sophistication that feels particularly right for A/W 26. Rather than relying on overt logos or fussy details, the design lets its silhouette do the talking, making it an effortless partner to everything from tailored separates to chunky winter knits. For those who prefer their investment pieces to feel luxurious without shouting about it, the Eilo is one of the new-season bags worth knowing about. Now to decide whether to go for slate grey, misty grey or that shade of inky blue.

Shop the Bottega Veneta Elio

Style Notes: Gucci and bamboo go together like autumn and cable knits, but the new Vendetta feels like a fresh chapter for one of the brand’s most recognisable signatures. The sturdy bamboo handle is a distinctive touch, now matching the colour of the bags rather than contrasting wood, whilst the refined silhouette keeps the overall effect feeling sophisticated rather than "stuffy". There’s something particularly appealing about the balance of heritage and modernity, giving us exactly the kind of handbag that can elevate a simple knit-and-trousers combination just as easily as it can complement a more dressed-up look. If you weren't sold on the logomania of Gucci's recent bag offerings (though I myself am still dreaming about a Paparazzo), consider the Vendetta a strong contender for bag of the season.

Shop the Gucci Bamboo Vendetta

Style Notes: You may see them everywhere right now, but Prada’s Buckle bag was one of the first to take the big belt buckle mainstream. Whilst Hérmes' Birkin is all about the refined, smaller details that quietly nod to the wearer's status, the Buckle is a loud and proud statement that could become a fixture in fashion insiders’ wardrobes for 2026 and beyond. Softer and more rounded than a boxy bag, the buckle detail gives the otherwise polished design a subtle utilitarian edge. And, as with so many of Prada’s best accessories, it's a little tongue-in-cheek, but still an easy pairing for everything from tailored coats to relaxed denim. If you’re looking for a new-season bag that feels directional but still has the versatility to earn its place in your everyday rotation, the Buckle is well worth knowing about.

Shop the Prada Buckle

Style Notes: It might not be a brand new silhouette, but Miu Miu’s Arcadie bag is instantly recognisable whilst still looking fresh for a new season. The latest update—Western-reminiscent studs—only serves to play up the contrast between the "ladylike" polish and the playful sensibility we’ve come to expect from Miuccia. In true Miu Miu fashion, I imagine this handbag draped over the shoulders of the street-style crowd with oversized faux furs and tiny minis, though jeans and a jumper will do the job as well. This surprisingly versatile addition to an autumn wardrobe is ideal for those who are drawn to designer pieces with contemporary relevance, so expect to see the A-list cottoning on soon too.

Shop the Miu Miu Arcadie

Style Notes: Allow me a moment to draw you away from the Fendi Baguette. I know, easier said than done, but what had me most excited during the A/W 26 show wasn't just the array of bedazzled Baguettes, but what they were shown stacked alongside: the capacious Magic Shopper. What looks at first glance like a two-in-one is in fact some of the best handbag styling I've seen in an age: the pretty mini bag of our Y2K dreams, sat atop a practical, spacious monogrammed shopper just as exciting as its predecessor. The implication is clear: you could carry this big bag on its own (it'll fit a laptop, makeup bag and even a change of shoes), but it looks even better with a mini bag with it, so now is a great time to retire that canvas tote bag you've been stuffing your practical bits into for the commute. Fendi says, "If you're going to carry two bags, make sure one of them is an unavoidable logo shopper."

Shop the Fendi Magic Shopper

I’ll admit it: I didn’t expect The Row’s Agnes Bag to become my go-to bag. The Row Margaux tends to get most of the attention when we talk about the brand’s handbag lineup thanks to its instant virality in 2025, but I’ve always had a soft spot for the quieter pieces—the bags that fashion people recognize immediately, even if everyone else just thinks they’re beautifully made. The Agnes, which has been part of The Row’s accessories offering since 2025, falls squarely into that category.

I started carrying the smaller size 12 in black after treating myself ahead of my wedding, and very quickly, it became the bag I was reaching for without thinking. The Agnes isn’t trying to be the handbag everyone notices from across the room. It’s the handbag someone with very good taste notices when they’re standing next to you.

Below, read my full review of The Row Agnes 12 in black, including what I love about it, what fits inside, how I’ve been wearing it, and whether it has finally convinced me to look beyond the Margaux.

The Row Agnes Bag History

The Agnes doesn’t have quite the headline-making origin story of The Row’s Margaux, and perhaps that’s fitting. Rather than arriving as an instant It bag, it has quietly become one of the brand’s most recognizable under-the-radar handbags.

The design takes cues from vintage bowling bags, but The Row gives that familiar shape its own very particular treatment: soft structure and that slightly slouched base that makes it feel more relaxed than a traditional structured purse. We first spotted it as part of the label's spring/summer 2026 offering, but knowing Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, The Row Agnes Bag was probably in development for years prior, making sure it reached that crucial The Row standard before being released to the public.

Read My Full Review

The Row Agnes Bag Review

My first thought when I started carrying the Agnes was that it was… a little weird. In my eyes, that is a massive compliment. It has the bones of a structured doctor bag—the defined top, the relatively neat proportions, the way it holds its shape—but then there’s this unexpected slouch right at the bottom, almost like the bag has softened or folded in on itself.

It’s a small detail, but it completely changes the personality of the bag. There’s a slight, almost twisted-looking fold near the “feet” of the bag that doesn’t disappear when you try to straighten it out. In fact, I found myself liking it more the more I noticed it. It gives the Agnes a kind of nonchalant imperfection that keeps it from feeling too prim or too traditionally ladylike.

There are plenty of beautiful black leather handbags that are perfectly symmetrical and impeccably structured. The Agnes has a bit of a twist. It looks considered without looking overly designed, which, to me, is very much the appeal of The Row.

The Row Agnes Bag Specs

Price: $4400

Size: Agnes 12: 12.99"W x 5.91"D x 8.27"H. Also a larger, Agnes 15 available, as well as several clutch-style pouch models.

Leather: Finely grained calfskin leather with a soft, natural finish

Colors: Black, Cinnamon Brown, Dark Brown

Closure: Curved-top zipper closure

Carry: Top handle only—there’s no crossbody or shoulder strap

Shop My The Row Agnes Bag

How Much Does The Row Agnes Bag Cost?

The Row Agnes bags currently start at around $4400 for the Agnes 12 in calfskin, with prices varying by size, material, and season. Like many of The Row’s handbags, availability can also be inconsistent, so the exact style and color you want isn’t always easy to catch in stock.

How to Style The Row Agnes Bag

Styling the Agnes is pretty intuitive—you can treat it much like any other top-handle bag, but I find myself being a little more intentional with it. Because there’s no crossbody strap, it naturally feels a touch more polished than the casual bags I might sling over my shoulder on an everyday errand. I like it with relaxed tailoring, jeans and a good coat, or a simple knit-and-trouser combination where the bag can do a little more of the styling work.

Shop The Row Agnes Bag

If you follow handbag trends as closely as I do, then you may have noticed that a change is afoot. Whilst I’ve never subscribed to the idea of pieces being ‘in’ or ‘out’ of fashion, there are certainly waves of popularity, and the past few years have seen spacious bags at the fore.

From capacious totes to sumptuous buckets, bags have been taking up space. But now, one of my favourite bag styles is making a slow and steady rise to prominence once more. Months ago, I noted that clutch bags would be making a bold return, and suddenly everywhere I look, in-the-know fashion people are carrying one exact style—The Horse Fin Drawstring Bag.

From London to L.A., stylish dressers are finishing their day and night looks with this exact bag, and it’s clear that the Fin Drawstring brings a dash of polish to even the simplest looks. With the innate elegance and poise that comes with tucking these small bags under our arms, fashion people's infatuation with the humble clutch bag is about to reach its peak for autumn 2026, and The Horse's designer-looking style is sure to sell out imminently.

For now, The Horse’s Fin Drawstring bag remains an in-the-know piece. Without bold logos, monograms or loud branding, The Horse draws upon precise silhouettes, clean lines and elegant designs to do the heavy lifting. As for the Fin bag, the designer-looking feel comes from the refined design, formed from leather supple enough to create a dumpling shape that can mould to the body when tucked under the arm. The leather straps, which cinch the top, can also be attached to wear as an over-the-shoulder style—yes, The Horse really has put practicality and style at the centre of this design.

What's more, the Fin bag comes in an array of elegant shades, from the classic black and rich burgundy for the minimalists to sunny yellows and soft blues for the more vibrant dressers. There's also a newly released Shoulder silhouette, which offers a touch more room for those who need it. Now, scroll on to explore The Horse Fin Drawstring bag and shop more The Horse bags we adore.

Shop The Horse Fin Drawstring Bag

Shop More The Horse Bags Fashion People Adore

Fall is fast approaching and with it are the major accessories trends that are set to define what cool style looks like for the months ahead. When it comes to handbags, the fall/winter 2026 runways offered many new ideas for shapes, sizes, and finishes, but now that fashion people are tapping into their fall wardrobes, we're seeing which styles are really resonating in the wild, too.

Designers were aligned on several fronts—first, that things are getting slouchier and more lived-in. Bags arrived unzipped and unbuckled for an effortless effect and in more everyday shapes like the classic flap bag. While Chanel's Maxi Flap continues to be an in-demand item, I also predict that modern iterations like the Coach Chelsea Bag will also be everywhere.

On the other hand, elegant dressers are reaching for super-sleek east-west clutches to tuck under their arms, petite wallets and pouch bags in lieu of a traditional evening bag (they're cooler too, I might add), and glossy croc embossing on any and every silhouette. Here, discover the six handbag trends taking the lead for fall 2026 and the best styles to buy within each.

1. Two-Dimensional

There's no denying it: Once a specific It bag from The Row starts to take off, as is the case with the Cecily Top Handle Bag, it wields the power to spark an entire trend. This summer, with cosigns from Kendall Jenner and many fashion insiders, the bag rose to fame, and now that we're heading into fall, the two-dimensional silhouette is taking center stage. Some of the standout styles are also coming from Valesque, whose Thea tote is finished both satin nylon and crushed velvet.

2. Elongated Clutches

Clutches have been rising in priority all year, and this season they're taking the specific shape of sleek east-west silhouettes. The cult-loved styles to know include the Khaite Blake Clutch and Coach Kisslock Frame Bag, and the move is to tuck one under your arm, letting the elongated shape speak for itself.

3. Canvas

Canvas bags are par for the course in the summer months, but the styles on offer this year are simply too strong to dismiss as soon as the seasons change. In fact, demand seems to only be growing as the summer winds down with Alex Mill's viral monogrammed tote taking over among the downtown set in NYC and The Row's Brian Tote selling out.

4. Flap Bags

There was early indication that oversize flap bags would become a major trend because we spotted the silhouette on the fall/winter 2026 runways, notably with the Maxi Flap at Chanel, and now the market is finally catching up with plenty of cool lived-in-looking bags to shop at every price point.

5. Crocodile Finishes

Exotic finishes have been a trending theme for a moment now, and the fall collections underscored just how far a little croc embossing can go. No matter the shape or style, the coolest bags for fall will be those with a glossy crocodile print.

6. Wallets

Yes, clutches are cool again, but I'm seeing a rise in fashion people styling wallets and pouches as their bags of choice now too. Perhaps it's because full-size wallets are often too beautiful to be squirreled away inside a larger bag or because forgoing a bag at all signals a certain level of ease and confidence, but the new wave of bags is, well, anti-bags.