When it comes to your hardest-working accessory, you can never have too many bags.
And with the changing of the seasons, the easiest way to upgrade your capsule wardrobe, occasion wear, and fun, easy favorites is to have something new to hold.
Best of all, if you can't decide which key trend to tap into, the “handbag layer” is up to the task.
“Whether you need extra storage space or want to make a statement, the double bag trend is destined to be in this spring,” says Nia Davis, designer of the handbag and accessories brand Fiorelli.
To master the trend, she recommends opting for a medium-sized minimalist base, like a black tote bag. [or designer logo if that’s your thing]. “And pair it with a mini or crossbody bag for an extra layer of texture, color or shape.”
Here's how to follow the lead of what's new…
1. Female shoulder
With quiet, understated luxury still in the spotlight and pastel hues key in designer collections, you can't go wrong with the longevity of a structured shoulder bag in a neutral, peach or putty pink hue.
“Spring acts as a relaxing, uplifting palette cleanser before the new summer season arrives,” says Zizi Hill, design director at Radley. And as she notes, “Intricate leather, luxurious suedes, and faux snakes and crocodiles add dimension and luxury.”
John Lewis ANYDAY Chic Flap Shoulder Bag, White Lizard, £35
LK Bennett Camel Ottie Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag, £199
2. Stylish top handles
Sure to be a hit this spring, Davis says top-handle bags have a simple yet timeless silhouette.
“Perfect for a sober and elegant style, they can be used in various ways, depending on the occasion.
“This season, the details are up to you, leaving room for personal expression. Whether through fun color combinations or refined details like unique handles, classic style will be fun again.”
Fiorelli Paloma Mini Tote Bag, Orange, £69
Radley Liverpool Street 2.0 Faux Croc, Sea Foam, £259
3. half moon
The half-moon shape is here to stay, as we hope to wear (or hold) them with lighter layers and sheer fabrics in the coming months.
In fact, Thomasine Jordan, LK Bennett's global design and product director, says her chest bag has become one of her best-selling styles as the crossbody bag trend continues: “And we love the new color dark pink this season”.
Meanwhile, Ria Campbell, PR director at Monsoon, says demand for crescent-shaped bags has skyrocketed and they've embraced the trend with a new zip-up crossbody bag in radiant red. “A stylish investment in a timeless accessory that promises to withstand the ever-changing waves of fashion.”
Monsoon Zipper Crossbody Bag, Red, £39
LK Bennett Greta Pink Leather Crossbody Bag, Sunset, £229
4. Baggy Hobo
“Hobo bags will be one of the trendiest silhouettes to wear this season, as the oversized tote has taken a new slouchy direction,” says Davis.
“Designed to be filled and slung over the shoulder, these simple bags can fit your entire life inside, making them a practical choice for everyday use.”
And for maximum impact, bigger is better.
FatFace Hattie Scoop Hobo Bag, Dark Navy, £79
Fiorelli Valentina tote bag, black, £89
5. weaving
Following the basket bag trend, woven and raffia models have been updated with embellishments and ruffles…
“Usually associated with beach getaways, woven-style bags will be more popular than ever this season,” says Davis.
“There are many different variations of woven bags, from structured basket bags, rope-shaped designs and woven handle details, and straw, leather, rope and raffia designs lend themselves to this trend,” she notes.
Accessorize Ruffle Handheld, £45, very
Autographed Straw Bucket Bag, £65, Marks & Spencer
