Does anything say “hello autumn” quite like a shiny new handbag? There is an emphasis on literal shine in the designer collections this year, as patent effects and metallic hardware make new styles feel particularly irresistible.
A designer buy is an investment – bags by Mulberry, Dior, Chloé and the like will typically hold their value, and never go out of style. But the looks we see on the catwalk will inevitably trickle down as trends on the high street, too – watch out for shoulder bags, crackled leathers, maxi totes and pouches loaded with pockets at Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Mango.
The fact that the most coveted bags this season are both desirable and practical makes it a particularly good time to buy one – whether you are thinking about treating yourself or sending someone a hint ahead of Christmas.
These are the trends to note.
The pop of red
It’s common to choose a “safe” colour when shopping for a new bag, but this season an abundance of red and mahogany styles are making the case for adding a flash of colour to every winter outfit. Surprisingly versatile, Sezane’s patent tote (available in two different red hues) would look as strong when set against a navy wool peacoat as it would with a khaki or beige trench.
Patent tote, £285, Sezane
The embellished mini
The Duchess of Sussex’s favourite Scottish bag brand, Strathberry, has collaborated with eclectic London womenswear label Shrimps on a range of top-handle and crossbody styles, covered in crochet embroideries and bold gems. “These bags definitely bring joy,” says Hannah Weiland, the designer behind Shrimps. “I love the beautiful autumnal terracotta colour, with hand-embroidered flowers inspired by our best-selling Shrimps knits.” Match to a co-ordinated kitsch cardigan, or let the pearl details dress up a winter wedding guest look.
From £195, Strathberry
The neat shoulder bag
Christian Dior’s It bag for autumn debuted on the catwalk in February. Its Miss Dior features a prominent nameplate logo, inspired by the fonts used throughout the Maison’s famous ready-to-wear line, which was first dreamt up in 1967. The ideal shape and size evening bag comes in animal prints and logo quilting finishes, as well as classic polished leathers.
Miss Dior flap bag, £2,750, Dior
The high-gloss look
Mulberry has worked up a capsule range with the London Fashion Week designer Rejina Pyo – Pyo’s pocket-fronted shoulder bags in crackled patent leathers are already a front row must-have. “It draws inspiration from Mulberry’s archival Blenheim style,” says Pyo. “It has a slight nostalgic, scholarly quality, yet feels effortlessly chic. It has been designed to be a practical bag for real life – something functional yet stylish that you’ll want to reach for daily.”
From £895, Mulberry
The maxi tote
The Parisian bag brand Polène has gained a cult following for its origami-like shapes and generous sizes. Its newest – and possibly biggest – bag is the Cyme tote, a true carry-all that doesn’t look unsightly, thanks to its neat folded edges. When it comes to day bags, bigger styles are most definitely back.
Cyme, £380, Polène
The utility bag
Chemena Kamali, the new creative director of Chloé, made a real impact with her debut catwalk show for A/W 24. The resulting bags have already achieved must-have status, too. Loaded with pockets and gold hardware, the boxy camera shape would make any casual outfit feel both elegant and effortless.
Small camera bag, £1,690, Chloé
The business bucket
The sleekest bag to take to your next boardroom meeting? Swedish contemporary label Toteme’s new bucket bag is the height of sophistication, and comes in several smooth leather finishes as well as a croc emboss effect. Best of all, it fits all the daily essentials – including a laptop – neatly inside.
Belted naplack-leather bucket bag, £895, Toteme
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