Get Ahead of the Game: Spring 2023’s Hottest Handbag Trends
One of the most captivating aspects of a new season is the emergence of fresh handbag styles. Our enthusiasm for handbags stems not only from their ability to enhance our overall appearance but also from the potential of a single bag to elevate or diminish an entire outfit. With the arrival of spring, prepare to be enamored by the latest handbag trends. Continue reading and best of luck in your search for the perfect one!
1 || Classic core
We are loving the fact that many designers have got back to their archives and revived the iconic pieces of the past that have stood the test of time. These bags are all about quality over quantity. So if you are thinking to invest in a new bag or dreaming of a retro-leaning silhouette, the sleek black shoulder bag is one of the smartest choices to go for this season.
2 || Stay Practical
This year’s major style aesthetic is “futuristic utility,” and handbags are no exception. As cargo pants and multi-compartment coats gain popularity, practical purses are emerging in a variety of designs to match. Expect to see bags with plenty of space, zippers, and pockets made from durable materials that can withstand any weather conditions.
3 || The Lady Bag
The box bag is the hottest shape of the season, offering a modern, geometric twist on the classic, feminine handbag silhouette. Its vintage vanity case-inspired design makes it a unique and conversation-starting addition to any outfit, particularly favored by French fashion houses like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Although it may not be the most practical bag option, the box bag’s structured shape and luxurious finish give it an air of sophistication and high-end appeal that is hard to resist.
4 || Shine Bright
In 2023, fashion is all about radiating a “shine on” attitude. Ever since the glittering return of in-person fashion week, a festive feeling has pervaded many of the runways. As a result, we’re inspired to keep the good vibes going by incorporating sparkle into our closets with dazzling details like metallic mesh, rhinestones, sequins, and diamanté.
5 || Weaves
If you possess an innate sense of style, then you’ll likely recognize that woven fabrics are a trendy option this season. A variety of materials, such as glossy leathers, sleek suedes, animal-friendly alternatives, and raffia fabrics, have been interwoven to offer you an array of fashionable choices. You could consider it to be a Bottega Veneta-inspired look that’s accessible to all budgets.
6 || Clutch
With the winter season coming to a close, it’s almost time to put away your down parka and puffer coat. As you transition into spring, you’ll want a new stylish companion to cuddle up to. How about a plush and cuddly clutch? Take inspiration from Gabriela Hearst and Fendi’s use of soft, cloud-like leather in squishy shapes, or try the Dries Van Noten approach with a ruffled and frilly design inspired by throw pillows.
7 || Novelty Bags
When a purse resembles a duck, quacks like a duck, and walks like a duck, it’s likely to become the next viral trend among designer handbags. I personally find it delightful when trends are rooted in having plain old fun. Even if a pigeon clutch seems a bit wacky, zany, or downright absurd, who cares? That’s precisely the point. If it brings you joy, go ahead and flaunt it. Puppets and Puppets came out with an array of food-inspired bags, while Thom Browne chose dog and clock shapes. Vivienne Tam, Coach, and Colin LoCascio also followed suit with playful purses in various designs.
8 || Hardware
Many of us indulged in purchasing vintage Balenciaga City Bags or shiny new Le Cagoles, and we were drawn to their excessive hardware in 2023. However, now we’re seeking alternative options that offer the same appeal. Consider studs, buckles, zippers, crystalized rivets, and other similar elements.
9 || Brights
A new season just wouldn’t be complete without an exciting new color trend, and this year, it arrives in the form of a zesty citrus palette, perfect for adding a burst of brightness after a dull winter. Take a dip into juicy shades of orange, yellow, and lime green, as seen in collections by Altuzarra, Valentino, Bottega, and Stella McCartney. Wear these hues now with understated neutrals, and then later on, mix and match with bold, bright shades for a playful summer look.
10 || Big and Mighty
The oversized tote is back and better than ever, serving as the perfect solution to last season’s ultra-small, slim 90s-inspired baguettes. This year, the runways at Alaïa, Bottega, and Hermés were dominated by big bags (including the unreasonably large clutch “sacks” at Balenciaga and Sportmax), proving that when it comes to bags, bigger is definitely better. We can’t resist a trend that allows us to carry everything we need (and more!) without compromising style.
11 || Elevated Evening
Reserve your mini bags for evening events, and make sure they make a bold statement! “Designers are moving away from envelope clutches, and consumers are on board,” Becker reveals. In their place, there are much more captivating LBBs (Little Black Bags) that perfectly complement evening attire.