Natural Fibers
A warm-weather classic, this season’s woven bags capture the carefree spirit of summer flawlessly. The Row leans into the mood with its relaxed Oregon tote, while Matthieu Blazy reinterprets Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato weave in an oversized, fan-like shape. At Gabriela Hearst, fishnet meets elaborate fringe detailing for a sweeping, dramatic effect. But there’s no need to splurge here if you don’t want to; many of the most-wanted woven and raffia bags are priced around the $300 mark, including styles from Ulla Johnson and Dragon Diffusion.
The New Shoulder Bag
Compact and ladylike, the shoulder bag that reigned supreme on the spring runways is characterized by clean lines and a short strap. Turn to Gucci for a head-turning logo moment, Alaïa for an exaggerated handle, or stay stealth with The Row’s soft suede style.
Bold Burgundy
Whether you call it bordeaux, burgundy, or “Rosso Ancora” (grazie, Gucci!), this deep, purplish-red has anchored many designers’ spring collections; Gucci’s Sabato de Sarno even introduced it as one of house’s new It colors in his debut show last season. Consider it an evolution of the bold red that’s been dominating of late, and smart move to buy into now as burgundy accessories will continue to trend throughout 2024. (ICYMI: They were also a mainstay on the fall/winter runways.) Like fine wines, styles that get better with age can be found at Gucci, Loewe, Bottega Veneta and Altuzurra.
Push the Envelope
Signed, sealed, delivered! Designers are making a case for daytime clutches—but don’t worry, these aren’t the sequin pochettes of yore. Shaped like envelopes, these styles mean business, and transition seamlessly in a 9-to-9 schedule; they can live in a larger tote on your commute. (Snaps for practicality!) Look to Dries Van Noten, Bottega Veneta, and Altuzarra for some of our favorite picks to hold near and dear.
Maximum Capacity
What is the office siren’s work bag of choice? A generously-sized top-handle, of course. A Margaux or Birkin is the ne plus ultra for many, though, you can’t go wrong with similar heirloom-in-the-making styles from Prada, Miu Miu, and Ferragamo. Whichever you invest in, try not to be too precious about their wear. The best ones have a , lived-in look.
Precious Cargo
Going somewhere? You might be! At least you could be when carrying one of these duffle-inspired silhouettes. Khaite’s Maeve tote comes in a range of sizes, from ultra-mini for a French exit to seriously capacious for an actual weekend getaway. Hermès gives us a choice burgundy doctor’s bag, while The Row’s Domino style is a worthy alternative for those still waiting to get their hands on a Margaux.
Embossed Elegance
A luxe material that wears especially wear, stamped bags of all shapes and sizes lend a ladylike finish to any look. Take your pick of heirloom-inspired styles this season, from Jil Sander and Ferragamo to DeMellier and Cuyana.
Walk on the Wild Side
The TikTok mob wives may have brought back leopard, but it’s the runways responsible for a resurgence in snake-effect prints. For the most part, designers embraced sleek, minimal shapes to add texture to their looks; you can do the same with key styles from Khaite, Jacquemus, Bottega Veneta, or J.Crew.
The Bucket List
Bucket bags are back, baby! Mini or oversize; clutched by the strap or slung casually over the shoulder, the silhouettes we’re loving most strike the perfect balance between slouchy and structured. For a hero buy, consider Loewe’s new Pebble style, which comes in suede and leather or Miu Miu’s drawstring canvas pouch—the ultimate summer companion.
Neat and Petite
The same travel-minded spirit embodied by the duffle bag is echoed in these vanity case-inspired designs. Primed for soirées, miniature box styles from Loro Piana and Louis Vuitton have all the elements of chic and reliable plus-one.
