When transitioning our wardrobes from summer to fall, clothing is often the starting point—a new dress here, a nubby sweater there. Then, comes accessories from footwear (closed-toe silhouettes and boots galore) to jewelry and, of course, handbags. New trends aside, the main point of owning seasonal pieces is to distinguish your look as the weather changes. Summer is all about throw-on-and-go vibes while fall takes us into a more polished and thought-out frame of mind. The latest trends do allow for an easy transition into the cold-weather months, however, and there’s no denying our desire to update our look with pieces that are quintessentially fall.
In the handbag department, the fall runways have us clamoring for rich textures, deeper colors and fresh shapes whether you’re shopping for an updated everyday bag or a new silhouette to freshen up your evening assortment. If you’re strictly interested in a designer splurge, logomania prevails, though this time with a redux of sorts. Whatever avenue you take, these new-season styles will make your heart go pitter-patter indeed.
For a guide on what’s to come for fall, scroll through to discover the top five handbag trends of the season. Plus, how to get them at any price point.
Fall's Freshest Handbag Trends
Brown
If you’re the pragmatic type that shops for a neutral-colored bag at the top of the season, brown is the resounding shade, spotted on designer runways like Isabel Marant, Zimmermann and Acne Studios. While variations of chocolatey, tan and taupe shades made appearances on the runways, warm cognac brown is the hue du jour in both timeless and modern shapes, including this insanely affordable half-moon cross-body bag.
An affordable carryall to style with your work attire Monday through Friday.
How fresh is this two-tone top-handle silhouette?
We spotlighted this emerging bag brand earlier this year, and our adoration for the line has only continued to grow.
Another It bag brand to know, this uniquely-shaped shoulder style is perfect for those tired of satchels, hobos and totes.
Croc
Croc-effect bags ruled the runways of Hermés, Chloé and Rejina Pyo. With a luxurious effect, sleek shapes are what truly take this trend into elevated territory whether it’s with a structural bucket (this inexpensive Mango version is sublime), modern cross-body silhouette or polished shoulder bag. It’s the perfect trend to try if you’re looking for a smart and elegant bag that works for both office and evening affairs.
Glossy croc instantly elevates an everyday cross-body bag.
A deep shade of wine is gorgeous and pops against neutral clothing.
The belt bag trend is hardly over, so why not go for a croc version?
Angular yet sleek, this is how cool girls do croc.
Vintage-Inspired Minis
The mini bag trend is hardly new, but for fall, it’s all about vintage influences, seen across the runways of Oscar de la Rent, Altuzarra and Adeam. From small, structured top-handle styles to compact cross-body bags, opulence is key whether it’s via seasonal croc, elegant brocade or shimmering metallic fabrics. A worthwhile look for both day and night, it’s the modern update your after-hours bag collection needs if your assortment consists of mostly clutches. Dip your toe in with this affordable chest silhouette from Zara.
It doesn’t get more unique than this croc-effect box bag (it was a total scene-stealer during London Fashion Week!).
Chain detailing adds edge to a mini brocade bag. For an unexpected contrast, wear this style with denim.
Your wear-with-everything gold evening bag, updated in a boxy silhouette.
Direct from the runway, this Oscar de la Renta mini is as elegant as it gets. Go bold and mix yours with prints or pare it back with a little back dress.
Saddle Bags
The saddle bag is entirely reclaimed for fall, including the return of the iconic Dior silhouette. From Choé to Loewe and Roberto Cavalli, the newest versions come with a sophisticated spirit (you can put your fringed versions on standby this season) featuring clean lines, high-shine hardware and croc-effect fabrics (are you sensing a theme here?). For less than $30, this sleek brown version hits on two trends in one.
A retrained take on your beloved bohemian saddle bag.
For the city girl who wants to take a saddle bag for a spin, this style comes in so-now croc.
Polished hardware ups the ante of this everyday cross-body silhouette.
Chloé is synonymous with saddle bags, and the Tess is the French house’s newest version. A guaranteed sell-out, secure yours asap!
Logo Redux
Logomania has been an ongoing trend for several seasons and for fall, it’s all about a redux. From Fendi to Prada to Balenciaga, the mood heads in a sporty direction and includes modernized emblems as well as athletic-inspired silhouettes. Gucci fanatics will feel drawn to this too-cool leather backpack.
With a streetwear influence, Fendi’s fresh-for-fall logo is sporty to a T.
Whether you dabble in athletics or simply live for Creative Director Demna Gvasalia’s aesthetic, this Balenciaga belt bag is our pick for edgier tastes.
A classic Louis Vuitton bag with a twist, this wave-shape will enliven any outfit whether worn as a cross-body bag or clutch.
Go full-on sport in this straight-from-the-runway Prada bag.
