By Finding a new handbag is like finding a new romantic partner. There are trusty handbags that will surely keep you satisfied, but there are also newcomers that bring an excitement you can’t ignore. While it feels like a lot of the major brands are recreating the same silhouettes over and over again, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to parse through the fall runways to see what everyone will be wearing for the upcoming season. One thing is certain: The oversized bag and the top-handle bag aren’t going anywhere while we make a convincing case for the return of the clutch and investing in an oddly artful, or artfully odd, handbag. Take a look and see what trend you’ll swipe right—er, try—on this fall.
Furry Friends
The classic companion to your shearling coat this fall? A matching bag, of course. Many designers brought the warm, fuzzy feeling that a fur coat brings to their bags this season, with almost all brands now working with faux fur for a guilt-free carrying experience.
Staud Sasha Shearling Bag
Anton Belinskiy Special Bag 2
Fendi Mini Baguette
Big, Bigger, Biggest
We will truly never move past the oversized bag trend, and designers are right there with us. While it feels like this trend is repeating itself yet again, brands like Brandon Maxwell and Bottega Veneta are finding new avenues to explore the bigger-than-life trend. Plus, we’re schleppers for life and cannot part with all 50 of our daily necessities.
Khaite THE LARGE BEATRICE HOBO
Kassl Editions Pillow Large Oil in Camel
Proenza Schouler xl ruched tote
Balenciaga Barbès striped leather tote bag
Art All Over
Who says painterly touches need to be saved for canvas? Designers like Fendi and Prada took to their leather offerings this season with graffiti, embroidery, and other artful touches that bring a museum quality to your bag.
Givenchy Small 4G bag in 4G Reaper printed canvas with chain
Medea Tall Busted
Loewe Small Puzzle Edge bag in degrade nappa calfskin
Prep In Your Step
The end of summer and the beginning of fall is an instant reminder of the back-to-school days when you would stock up on fresh pencils and a new pair of shoes for the school year. Designers like Louis Vuitton and Chanel took prep school style to the next level with messenger bags and totes worthy of all your books while houndstooth, tartan, and plaid abounded.
Dior Small Book Tote Yellow and Black Check'n'Dior
Anine Bing Nico Bag
Ralph Lauren Glen Plaid Welington Crossbody Bag
Just Clutch It
One of the industry’s most buzzed-about shows, Bottega Veneta, featured a pillow-esque clutch that’s perfect for napping on your commute. Other designers took on this timeless trend of the grab-and-go style, which has taken on new meaning as we continue to step out on the town with minimal baggage in tow.
Bottega Veneta Teen Pouch in Wasabi
Clare V. Flat Clutch with Tabs
The Attico "8.30 PM" Clutch
Maison Margiela Glam Slam Mini Red Carpet Bag
Too Hot To Handle
The most ladylike of bags, the top handle isn’t just for your grandmother’s Sunday best. Take this classic style into the future with modern updates from fan favorites such as Balenciaga.
Balenciaga hourglass bb monogram bleached denim
Prada Leather handbag
Brandon Blackwood Kuei Bag in Chocolate Brown Croc Embossed Leather
Little Liffner Slanted Mini Tote in Pink Lizard-Embossed
Kevin LeBlanc is the Fashion Associate at ELLE Magazine. He covers fashion news, trends, and anything to do with Robyn Rihanna Fenty.
