Bags of Envy—The 7 Luxury Bag Trends We Know Will Be on Every Stylish Person's Shoulder This Autumn
Having already reported on shoe trends for the upcoming AW25 season, naturally, I wanted to keep the research rolling, identify the major bag moments too, as seen on the shoulders or crooks of arms of models at some of our most-watched shows. I mean, what's a great pair of shoes without a fabulous handbag to boot? The catwalks of Paris, Milan and London give rich ground for trends to build, and for certain items and pieces to come away as breakout stars of the season. Bags were most certainly at the front and centre of the runways this time around, with a selection of classics brought back from the archives, fresh takes on leather and suede variations, as well as standout hues and antique finishes.
If you're eager to invest in your next big bag purchase (I mean, pay-day is just right around the corner), take a look at the following 7 trends and my curated shopping edit below to get you in the mood. It's in the bag!
1. Boho Hardware
Style Notes: Boho is back, and brands such as Chloé and Isabel Marant are doubling down on the trend via their handbags. Most notably, these bags are adorned with brass hardware, OTT fastenings, plus multiple rivets, charms and fringing. Look for options in rich burgundy, nappa leather, or classic suede and dark black for something that makes for great daily use, and pair your choice with flowing dresses, cashmere knitwear and knee boots for the Sienna Miller aesthetic.
Shop the Trend
CHLOÉ
Kerala Leather Shoulder Bag
The Paddington's little sister, the Kerala has all the hallmarks of a new Chloé icon.
Isabel Marant
Oskan Medium Suede Shoulder Bag
VALENTINO GARAVANI
Nellcôte Suede Shoulder Bag
I've seen Alexa Chung already wearing this bag, so it's certified.
2. Classic Croc
Style Notes: I'm seeing a strong return to practical but city-proof bags, that exude glamour and sophistication. High-shine croc-effect leathers are back on doctor-style bags, top-handle totes and shoulder-friendly shapes, with gold hardware and plenty of space for a laptop or daytime essentials. These are bags made to complement your 9-5 and add a healthy dose of luxury to your autumn capsule wardrobe.
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Demellier London
The New York | Black Croc Effect
Mulberry's Bayswater handbag will never date. This luxe update brings it into 2025.
Toteme
Medium Croco-Embossed Day Tote Black
For the minimalists and luxury lovers. Toteme is that girl.
3. Feeling Fluffy
Style Notes: With the return to autumn, there is always an inevitable craving of all things cozy, fuzzy and warming. Call it hygge. Handbags have adopted this movement, utilising all-over faux-fur fabrications, shearling and fluffy trims to go the whole hog. Giving both a sense of eye-catching fun and an ultra-luxe feel to your look, I'm noting this trend coming in the form of taupe, soft cream and natural beige tones. Who needs a pet when you have a fluffy handbag?!
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SAINT LAURENT
Niki Large Leather-Trimmed Shearling Shoulder Bag
Fendi
Fendi Spybeige Shearling Bag
The Fendi Spy bag is undergoing a major revival. You heard it here first!
Michael Kors
Nolita Large Faux Shearling Shoulder Bag
I can't stop thinking about this Michael Kors since seeing it at their press day. It's so gorge!
4. Snakeskin Touches
Style Notes: Snakeskin-effect leathers and finishes dominated footwear this season, and it's only natural that we see it touching on bags also. Dovetailing well with both bohemian and contemporary trends, I saw python-look handbags all the way from Miu Miu to Zimmermann. One throughline I noticed was that the very best of these bags came in rich tan, brown and chocolate tones—nothing too light and sandy, which could read as 'summer-y'.
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Zimmermann
Halcyon Snake-Effect Leather Shoulder Bag
The Zimmermann Halcyon bag is fresh off the catwalk. I love the cinched details and gold hardware.
JACQUEMUS
Le Bisou Perle Python-Effect Leather Shoulder Bag
This JACQUEMUS bag is great for evening looks and special events, adding a bit of spice to your ensemble.
Bottega Veneta
Women's Andiamo Clutch
5. The Big Red
Style Notes: The "unexpected red theory" is here to stay, and now has a stronghold over luxury handbags. Shapes that are big and eye-catching will dominate, in both suede and leather variations, making for perfect day bags and a throw-it-all-in ease. Spearheaded by Prada and Chanel, this trend is perfect for minimalists and maximalists too. Adopting a red bag will give a strong pop of colour to an otherwise simple look, or likewise, can give a healthy injection of playfulness to a busy and bold 'fit.
