It’s almost a new year, which means it’s time to get rid of all the baggage of 2022 and enter 2023 with, well, fresh baggage—handbags, that is. You can’t always get a new start emotionally, but at least you can have a fun new accessory to help you fulfill your resolutions (I stand by cute accessories being a point of emotional support). As we all get ready to hit the gym with the best workout clothes, cut off toxic people, and learn something new, let’s also resolve to be properly accessorized while doing...all of that.
Start off the new year right with the best 2023 bag trends, complete with input from a celebrity stylist and fashion buyer, below.
Belt Bags
Maybe you don’t want to carry much, or anything at all, into 2023. Go hands-free with these chic belt bags that will hold only the essentials. This convenient trend is a favorite of celebrity stylist Jyotisha Bridges. “As a stylist, I’m most excited about the belt bag trend,” she said. “The functionality makes them perfect for working on set or being cute on a brunch date with the girls.”
Super Size
“The bigger the tote, the better the bag,” according to Ryan Kleman, the Director of Buying, Non-Apparel at Moda Operandi. “Maxi proportions are reigning supreme when it comes to making a statement. The idea here is to look like you are carrying everything and the kitchen sink.” These bags can hold everything, including your laptop, sunglasses, water bottle, shoes, hopes, and dreams.
Hard Shell
Acne Studios, Chanel, and Simone Rocha featured vintage-inspired, hard-shell bags and clutches on the runway, making this trend a certified must-have. This trend is also Moda Operandi-approved. “Structured silhouettes make hand-held clutches feel new again,” Kleman said. “For those times when you don’t need much, a clutch will take you to every occasion and more.”
Drippy
Think: a flapper dress made into a handbag, icicles made of crystals or fringe made of sparkles. It’ll be hard not to constantly show off the movement and shimmer of these babies, but why stop? Main character energy all 2023!
Utilitarian Pockets
For those after more organization in the new year, try these exaggerated pocket bags. Louis Vuitton, Versace, Ferragamo, and more took part in this ultra-practical trend for spring 2023—and we’re sure the trend will last well into the new year. Compartmentalize your belongings like you will the people in your life! In a healthy way, of course.
Top Handle
The ultra-feminine is in for the upcoming season, and nothing says class or elegance like a good top-handle bag. You don’t have to look like an Upper East Side grandma carrying one, though. Bottega Veneta, Dior, and Miu Miu offered updated styles for spring 2023, but if you want to stay ahead of the curve, check out these styles.
Chainmail
Any true Y2K dresser knows that chainmail is perfect for nights out or casual lunches. Girly with a little bit of edge, these bags can go with any outfit.
Extreme Minimalism
Maybe you need to weed some things out in 2023 and really get back to the basics. The Row stans understand better than anyone: basics don’t have to be basic. An ultra-minimalist aesthetic is easy, clean, and, if done right, looks effortlessly expensive.
Floral
We’ve all heard the cliché about clichés, a quote overused in fashion and one I hate to bring up now, but all your favorite brands went for it this season on the runways. From Loewe’s anthurium accents on, well, everything to bright floral prints at Valentino, flora is here yet again for the spring season. Groundbreaking.
Sequins & Rhinestones
Sparkle and shine aren’t just for New Year’s Eve. It’s all year round! Sequins can be as loud or quiet as you want. Dries van Noten’s runway bags went subtle, while Roger Vivier showed bags embellished to the max. Choose your fighter.
