It's Back: The Y2K Bag Trend You Really Don't Need to Spend a Lot On
From the Fendi Baguette to the DeMellier Stockholm, these are the best baguette bags that would earn Carrie Bradshaw's stamp of approval.
If there's one accessory that epitomises the '90s, it's surely the baguette bag. Just one glimpse at its teeny proportions and dainty shoulder strap will take you thundering down memory lane to a time when jeans were low-slung and crop tops were plentiful. For me, the trend has connotations of chick-flick heroines, glamazon girl-band members and, well, Carrie Bradshaw. (As she famously said in an episode of Sex and the City, "it's not a bag, it's a baguette!")
I personally prefer low-key silhouettes and practical handbags, so it's fair to say that I was initially dubious about the baguette's return to fame. But before you dismiss it as I did, let me assure you that the current iteration has a different flavour than the '90s and Y2K originals. Along with many other bag trends, the updated baguette has taken on a more contemporary spin. As reprised by Fendi in its spring/summer 2027 show, which was just presented during Milan Fashion Week back in September, the new iteration is one replete with nostalgic details, magpie embellishments and elevated prints.
Designed to sit nicely with tailored shirting, loose-fit jeans, sharp blazers and slouchy sweaters, the bag adds polish to basic outfit pairings. And if you're worried about the price tags of the designer iterations beloved by Kate Moss and crew, rest assured that the high street has delivered a bounty of winning styles that can fit into any budget. This is also a trend that lends itself to buying second-hand, so if you fancy a pre-loved look, head over to Vestiaire Collective, Vinted or eBay, and keep your eyes peeled. I've also included a few options below.
Scroll down to see and shop the throwback bag that won't cost you the earth this summer.
Shop the Best Baguette Bags:
The OG baguette bag. Though there are many different styles to choose from, you can never go wrong with the classic jacquard logo. And here's a little history lesson for you: the print, titled the Zucca, was designed by Karl Lagerfeld in 1965.
Compact but just as chic, this Jimmy Choo style is ideal for days on the go or evenings spent out.
Despite its incredibly chic offering, DeMellier is still one of those understated prestige brands that will have people clambering to know where you got this bag from.
The woven leather bag has become catnip for minimalist dressers wanting to nod to luxury craftsmanship without wearing a huge designer logo.
As thin and sleek as a Vogue Slim, this style is the carry-all for nights defined by martini sipping in dark corners.
Bambi styles are on an upward trajectory, and this East-West style renders the animal print in such a chic format.
Consider this the mini Margaux; poised, effortless and quite reliable for trotting through town.
Ralph Lauren is synonymous with the '90s, and this plush burgundy suede feels completely fitting for that decade.
Though not a traditional baguette bag, the stretched shape of the Chloé Paddington makes quite a compelling option.
Cylindrical and plush, this studded iteration from Miu Miu is a more subversive take that's just as sophisticated.
A hallmark of Alessandro Michele's tenure at Gucci, it's since been given a sleazy, lived-in makeover by current creative director, Demna.
Named after dachshunds, Alaïa's Le Teckel is this decade's answer to the Fendi Baguette.
Gen Z's answer to the Hermès, Coach's bags are like catnip for early 20-somethings.
A cross-body that functions similarly to a baguette.
The pom pom accent feels like something you'd find at Matthieu Blazy's Chanel.
The zip is such a functional addition.
Inspired by Alaïa, but a fraction of the price.
Why Is It Called a Baguette Bag?
As the name suggests, it's called a baguette bag because of its long, thin, rectangular shape. It's not uncommon for designer items to derive inspiration from mundane items, from the Tiffany & Co. Bone cuff to the Chanel peanut and acorn minaudière bags worn by A$AP Rocky. Given the way the French bakery staple is tucked under the arm of its purveyor, the baguette bag also evokes the same sensation. It should also be known that the term "baguette" tends to be conflated with the Fendi iteration, but has also become synonymous with any long, east-west shaped bag.
Are Baguette Bags Still Trending in 2026?
Yes! Baguette bags are certainly still trending in 2026. First designed by Silvia Fendi in 1997, the bag, even 30 years on, still holds relevance as one of the most coveted shapes in the luxury designer realm. This year, Fendi paid tribute to the icon with a campaign starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Iris Law and more. This also follows on the heels of the Baguette's return on the SS27 runways. And as the style enters its Pearl Anniversary year, you can only expect it to gain more momentum over the months to come.
