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Soft & Unstructured Handbags Have Never Felt So Chic

Welcome to your slouchy purse era.

by Alison Syrett

Oct. 20, 2023

Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

slouchy bags Fer Millán Delaroière

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If a prim and proper lady purse — all sharp corners and neat angles — is the accessory equivalent of a well-heeled woman with VIP lunch plans, then this season’s must-have slouchy handbag would qualify as her charmingly wayward little sister. The soft and rounded style comes in all manner of shapes and sizes but always feels unbothered and cool, a piece you can leave by the door and grab without thinking; you just know it will work with whatever you own. It’s simple, but also supremely special, something you want to spend inordinate amounts of time with.

And you will, especially when considering the wardrobe possibilities the relaxed, slightly oversized silhouette offers. For instance, check out the luxe hobo-shaped options on Bottega Veneta’s Spring 2024 runway, where a sense of unbothered ease permeated the collection, or the squishy pillow-like carryalls spotted over at COS, all paired with city-wise basics. Then, of course, there’s Khaite, who’s had a hit on their hands ever since the 2019 launch of its cult favorite Sara tote, which completely collapses on itself unless you stuff it to the gills for a long day out (which with that kind of real estate to work with, why wouldn’t you?).

Below, shop these unstructured handbags and more for the season ahead.

Foulard Shoulder Bag In Chalk

Foulard Shoulder Bag In Chalk

Proof that a collapsable shape can still read quite polished: This luxe white braided design, complete with a striking gold handle. Pair this one with big glamorous sunglasses and a trip to the Amalfi Coast.

Leather Shopping Bag

Leather Shopping Bag

Want a basic black tote that still stands apart? Trade your hard leather style for the same silhouette in easygoing suede.

The Sara Tote

This hunter green hobo-tote hybrid is casual enough for the weekend, but polishes up real nice for an in-person work day as well.

Blue Lara Tote

Maryam Nassir Zadeh

Besides the unexpected outline and color, I love how this one is thin enough to roll up and squeeze in a tiny crevice of an overpacked suitcase.

Medium Squeeze Bag In Nappa Lambskin

Medium Squeeze Bag In Nappa Lambskin

Aptly named the “Squeeze,” Loewe’s luxe take on the trend includes ruched nappa leather and a glossy gold chain.

Medium Vittoria Tote Bag

Medium Vittoria Tote Bag

Note the details: an asymmetrical top and delicate tie accent add a little something extra to otherwise understated arm candy.

Soft M Hobo

Not only does the exaggerated U curve of this hold-all look lovely dangling from one’s shoulder, but it creates enough extra room to haul a laptop to the office — and extra clothes for a post-work pilates class.

Berkeley Bucket Bag In Leather And Suede

Berkeley Bucket Bag In Leather And Suede

If the bucket shape doesn’t fully sell you here, then the lovely two tone leather combination surely will.

Shiny Caviar Quilted Chanel 22 Yellow

Shiny Caviar Quilted Chanel 22 Yellow

A Chanel classic in sunshine yellow? Just try walking down the street without someone complimenting you on it.

Minetta Nappa Bag

Proenza Schouler

Minetta Nappa Bag

In a sweet shade of baby blue, this timeless choice adds an element of surprise to your look without overpowering it.

Convertible Backpack

Convertible Backpack

Because this beauty converts to a backpack on the go, it’s ideal for moms who need extra room and an occasional hands-free moment (but shudder at the thought of a diaper bag).