The SS23 Handbag Trends to Shop Now
These days, ‘It’ bags come in all shapes and sizes which leaves plenty of room for stylish interpretation. Indeed, the pervasive handbag trends dominating the arm candy sphere right now span the subtle sophistication of Quiet Luxury (imagine what Shiv Roy from Max’s Succession would carry and you’re likely on point), the iconic nostalgia of a modern-day Baguette (new takes on Fendi’s original in shades of shocking pink are rampant right now) and the in-your-face playfulness of a Y2K logo-embossed design (get ready to turn yourself into a walking ad for your favorite brand, just make sure it’s covered in denim).
As disparate as this all sounds, one thing the season’s most popular handbag trends have in common is their inherent versatility. If yours and its contents double as daily emotional support the new-era hobo is the look for you. Prefer to travel light? Invest in a bold Baguette or a mini embellished design, which holds deceptively more than you’d think at first glance. All in all, there’s something for every style. Read on for ModeSens’ Fashion Director Jing Leng’s definitive breakdown of the SS23 handbag trends to shop now. Chosen well, yours should serve you for years to come.
Why We Love It: Timeless and elegant, the colors to invest in now are elevated tones like olive, taupe and caramel, over classic black or brown.
The Bag: Polo Ralph Lauren’s Polo ID Calfskin Large Shoulder Bag
Jing’s Take: “This Old Money design is one of the most popular handbag trends of the season. I love the smooth cowhide fabric and sleek, hobo look. It’s equestrian-inspired with a double-sided contour that draws inspiration from a saddle, and it’s extremely versatile. It effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, from a T-shirt or hoodie, to a knitted coat. The medium size doesn’t have a zipper at the top, which is disappointing. But I do like how, after using this bag for a while, it will naturally develop wrinkles and creases, which will play into its casual, cozy feel. I like the widened shoulder strap, which is intrinsic to its comfort and practicality. Overall, this is the perfect everyday commuter bag that’s cost-effective and niche. Perhaps most importantly, its classic minimalist look will last for years."
Why We Love It: This 90s Fendi classic gets a modern update. Made famous by Sex In The City’s Carrie, it’s reimagined here in Barbiecore pink. What’s not to love?
The Bag: Jacquemus’ Le Bisou Cadenas Shoulder Bag In Pink
Jing’s Take: “This is the epitome of Y2K and instantly transports me back to the Paris Hilton era. Its elongated design reminds me of the ‘Columbus’ from Dior's early years. I love how Jacquemus has infused this 90s classic with a streamlined femininity. It’s worth noting that the lock is purely decorative, but there is a key that opens it. Maybe you can find a clever use for that? The suede is beautifully soft and makes the perfect textural contrast to a summer satin dress. All in all, this practical handbag trend is very accessible. I highly recommend it as a sweet addition to your summer look.”
Why We Love It: Logomania has made a comeback (look to Valentino’s SS23 runway show for proof) and head-to-toe denim—accessories included—is the hottest look of the season. Need we say more?
The Bag: Diesel’s 1dr Denim Shoulder Bag
Jing’s Take: “If an edgy vibe is more your speed, Diesel won’t be unfamiliar to you. After a major overhaul of its design and marketing teams, the label’s sales have skyrocketed, and it’s now all over e-commerce platforms, like ModeSens. A favorite with Millennials who love its cool, on-trend aesthetic, it regularly features on platforms like Books and Instagram. This particular shoulder bag features two iconic elements of the brand’s DNA: denim and a large logo. While the latter is certainly eye-catching, it does make the flap quite weighty, so it’s a little like engaging in a continual arm workout. The logo itself is covered in a metallic spray paint, which adds to its of-the-moment feel. I love the detachable shoulder strap, which adds versatility, but the top handle is fixed. My feelings toward this particular handbag trend is mixed—it has limited capacity but scores high in terms of style.”
Why We Love It: A balance of carefree and cool it’s clear why this runway trend made its way to handbags. There’s lots to love in this of-the-moment aesthetic.
The Bag: BY FAR’s Billy Semi Patent Leather Shoulder Bag
Jing’s Take: “I purchased this bag two years ago, and it's still highly sought after and selling well. Although I've seen colorful takes popping up on Instagram, the black-silver combination still gets my vote. I love its classic Y2K vibe and the adjustable shoulder strap. However, when I adjust it to the right length for me, one section of the bag tends to stick out too much. As for the material, mine is a matte patent leather, which doesn't leave fingerprints after being touched. On the downsize, despite its utilitarian feel, a pro-max-sized phone can barely fit in the larger pockets. And if you also want to fill it with various other items, it gets crammed quickly and can be a challenge to take out the phone. So, if capacity is a big consideration, you should think twice!”
Why We Love It: This is a major handbag trend right now and feels so right for summer; we love how its color and vibrancy adds a vacation-feel to any look.
The Bag: STAUD’s Tommy Floral Shoulder Bag
Jing’s Take: “While many of the other of the handbag trends we’re covering require a well-coordinated outfit, this low-key bestseller calls for the opposite. When Kendall Jenner stepped out in these two embroidered Staud bags recently, they skyrocketed in popularity. The simple, pretty designs are beautifully textured; I love the beading and sparkling embroidery options for this time of year. However, some influencers on social media have questioned its craftsmanship, claiming the detailing doesn't meet expectations. Nevertheless, as a niche brand in the mid-price range, it does offer value for money. It isn’t over complicated inside either, leaving plenty of room for the items you want to carry and the wide shoulder strap will comfortably rest on your shoulder. It’s worth noting that this bag is covered in beads on all sides—including the strap. So if you go for this one, you’re sure to capture attention from all angles.”
Why We Love It: Smaller than the gargantuan options that were trending in the early aughts, this accessible version is a practical well-loved design for good reason.
The Bag: OROTON’s North Zip Leather Hobo Bag
Jing’s Take: “This chic bag has immediate charm and feels entirely suited to commuting professionals; more so than some of the smaller options on the market. Its size makes it infinitely practical, and I love that it can be worn over the shoulder (although it can feel a little bulky this way), or with the strap clutched in your hand. It’s definitely a hardworking option worth adding to your collection.”
