No matter what style or aesthetic you identify with the most, one thing that we all have in common is the need for a good bag. Take a look around the capital on any given day and you'll spot them all–backpacks, handbags, clutches and pouches, and over the last few decades, bags have evolved from an everyday necessity to a status symbol, and for many, the right bag is the key to elevating an entire wardrobe. So not too much to ask of an accessory, then.
When it comes to shopping for the right bag, one thing to bear in mind is longevity, and designer bags are a great option for those looking for a long-term investment. Sure, they can be costly, but given the quality of materials used and careful design involved, a luxury handbag can be the difference between the piece that gathers dust at the back of your wardrobe, or a bag you'll wear for years to come.
There's no denying the appeal of the shiny, new designer bag (and my wish list is currently full of them), but "which are the best to buy now?" I hear you ask. Well, there are currently seven particular styles that London's best-dressed have been wearing on repeat. To save you scrolling time, I've pulled together an edit of the trending styles that should provide inspiration for your next luxury purchase, whether it be a glamorous evening bag or a practical tote. So, keep scrolling to see the designer bag trends London currently loves. You won't regret it.
1. THE CROCHET BAG
Style Notes: You know it's nearly summer when an artisanal trend like the string bag comes back around, and this year it's bigger than ever. Capitalising on the success of last year's Prada smash it, you'll find plenty of other designer bags following suit with colourful, hand-crafted bags perfect for summer in the city.
SHOP CROCHET BAGS:
Instagram's most coveted.
Such a fun colour combination.
I love the woven finish.
This has all of the style-appeal of Saint Laurent's leather bags.
2. THE MINI TOP HANDLE BAG
Style Notes: Just when we thought we'd seen the last of the teeny tiny bag, Londoners aren't quite ready to surrender their mini marvels quite yet. Granted, the current favourites are bigger than Jacquemus' unforgettable micro bag, Le Chiquito, but they're only still big enough to hold your essentials. Could these be the bag to replace the evening clutch? We certainly think so.
SHOP MINI BAGS:
The Valentino studs make this so much cooler.
You can get the Chloé woody in just about every size (including mini).
So elegant.
Even cuter when it's mini.
3. THE SLOUCHY TOTE BAG
Style Notes: A trend straight from the runways and the very antithesis of the mini bag, the slouchy tote is the practical answer to your handbag dilemmas. Large, light and roomy, this bag is perfect for the post-pandemic preference for comfort, functionality, and versatility.
SHOP SLOUCHY TOTES:
An influencer favourite.
Be still my beating heart.
This comes in four different colours, but the rich emerald green is a standout.
Proof that Tods aren't just great loafers.
4. THE BASKET BAG
Style Notes: If you invest in any bag this summer, a basket bag should be high on your list. These woven styles make great everyday bags, and you needn't worry about the delicate by nature of their design, 2023's most popular styles come in heavy duty leather as well as classic raffia. Look for bigger styles that can fit everything you need for work inside– they'll also double up as the ideal beach bag when you're out of office.
SHOP BASKET BAGS:
All of our editors are currently obsessed with Dragon Diffusion.
Such a modern take on the basket bag.
Going on holiday? This deserves a space in your suitcase.
Black, white, blue, green or brown? Decisions, decisions...
5. THE QUIET-LUXURY BAG
Style Notes: For those keeping up with current trends, quiet luxury will come as no surprise. The intentionally understated look comes from the popularity of TV shows like Succession and brands like The Row, who specialise in pared-back, minimalist designs without the need for logos, embellishment or print. Think the classic, monochromatic wardrobes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy or Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley. This is a trend that speaks (albeit in a hushed whisper) all for itself.
SHOP QUIET LUXURY:
This bag deserves it's own fan club. Oh wait, it already has one.
A brand new offering from The Row.
There's a reason the Jackie has stuck around since 1961.
Burgundy makes everything look more expensive.
6. THE POP OF COLOUR PICK
Style Notes: Wondering what to wear this month? Allow me to make a suggestion. Make your bag the star of the show by brightening a simple, tonal outfit with a burst of colour from a statement bag. Warmer months call for bolder colours, and this year is a kaleidoscope of juicy citruses, punchy brights and clever colour blocking.
SHOP BOLD BAGS:
Wearable art.
I haven't stopped thinking about the Casette since this colourway landed.
I've lost count how many times I've spotted this in London.
Key lime cool.
7. THE SLING BAG
Style Notes: One part hobo-tote and one part crossbody, the sling is the versatile bag that you can wear on your shoulder or casually swung across your body (depending on it's size). Just like the slouchy tote, the beauty of this bag is it's handy capacity, but you also have the added benefit of being totally hands free. Wear with a column maxi dress and sandals for an easy summer outfit that's guaranteed to get compliments.
Suede looks so premium.
But this glossy, leather version is equally good.
You won't run out of room with this XL bag.
The croissant looks as delicious as its namesake.
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